American Gangster

American Gangster

Movie • 2007

There are two sides to the American dream.

Loosely based on the criminal career of Frank Lucas, a gangster from La Grange, North Carolina, who smuggled heroin into the United States on American service planes returning from the Vietnam War, before being detained by a task force led by Newark Detective Richie Roberts.

Drama
Crime
157 minutes
Released

Bara says...

Ages 17+, but every child is different

This film features pervasive graphic violence, explicit language, and detailed depictions of drug distribution. The intense adult themes regarding systemic corruption and criminal life require a high level of emotional and social maturity.

Content Safety Breakdown

Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content

Sex & Nudity

4/5

The film features scenes of sexual intimacy, partial nudity, and the depiction of characters visiting brothels. These elements are presented in a gritty, realistic manner consistent with the crime drama genre.

Violence & Gore

4/5

The movie contains frequent scenes of realistic and brutal violence, including shootings, executions, and the aftermath of gang-related conflicts. Some scenes feature bloody injuries and high-stakes criminal confrontations.

Profanity

5/5

The dialogue is extremely coarse and features near-constant use of strong language. This includes frequent use of 'f*ck' and its derivatives in aggressive and casual contexts, as well as regular use of 'sh*t', 'n*gga', and various other harsh profanities throughout the film.

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking

5/5

Drug distribution and usage are central to the plot, depicting the manufacturing, smuggling, and widespread abuse of heroin. Characters are frequently shown consuming alcohol, smoking cigarettes, and participating in the illegal drug trade.

Frightening Scenes

3/5

The film maintains a heavy, tense atmosphere throughout, focusing on the corrupting nature of the drug trade and the constant threat of lethal violence. The realistic portrayal of criminal lifestyle creates a high level of psychological intensity.

Key Insights

Quick summary and important considerations

This movie is a heavy drama about real-life crime and police investigations; it is meant for mature audiences who can handle intense scenes and complex moral dilemmas.

Content Warnings

Graphic violence
Drug addiction and distribution
Strong profanity

Detailed Analysis

In-depth insights for parents and educators

What Parents Need to Know

Expect frequent use of profanity, brutal physical violence, and themes centered on the heroin trade. The film depicts high-stakes investigative work and criminal organizations.

What Kids Can Learn

Viewers can observe the complexity of historical legal systems and the dangers inherent in organized criminal activity.

Key Topics Discussed

Organized crime
Law enforcement ethics
1970s American history

Why Parents Might Like It

It offers a sophisticated, well-acted examination of historical crime and the tension between personal ambition and societal responsibility.

Positives & Learning

What makes this content valuable for children

Positive Messages

2/5

The narrative emphasizes the inevitable consequences of criminal enterprise and the importance of professional integrity in law enforcement.

Positive Role Models

2/5

While the detective character demonstrates dedication to the law, both central figures exhibit significant moral compromises that complicate their status as role models.

Diverse Representations

4/5

The film centers on the experiences of Black and immigrant communities in the 1970s, providing nuanced portrayals of power dynamics and systemic barriers.

Educational Value

2/5

Provides historical context regarding 1970s urban American life and the geopolitical impact of the Vietnam War on domestic crime.

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