American Gangster (2007)
A ruthless kingpin builds an empire on heroin, while a determined detective hunts him through a gritty, atmospheric city.
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.
How intense is American Gangster?
American Gangster has light gore and strong violence. Emotionally it is heavy. The pace is measured, and it is a full-attention watch. Rated R.
What American Gangster feels like
- Tone
- grittyepicsuspensefulatmospheric
- Pace
- Measured
- Best for
- Full attention
- True story
- Yes, based on true events.
Where to stream American Gangster
US availability via TMDB, last checked Sep 13, 2026. The app filters picks to the services you actually have.
Is American Gangster for you?
Is American Gangster scary?
No. American Gangster is not a scary watch (scare level 0 of 3).
Is American Gangster gory or violent?
Light gore (1 of 3) and strong violence (2 of 3).
Is American Gangster sad or heavy?
It is emotionally heavy (2 of 3). Expect it to land.
Is American Gangster OK for kids?
It is rated R, so it is made for adults. Intensity: scare 0, gore 1, violence 2, each out of 3.
How long is American Gangster?
American Gangster runs 2h 37m.
Where can I stream American Gangster?
American Gangster is streaming on AMC+, MGM+, Starz and YouTube (free).
Does American Gangster have a happy ending? spoiler-safe answer
No. Brace yourself.
Cast and crew
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