American Gangster

In 1968, Ellsworth 'Bumpy' Johnson, a notorious gangster, holds significant influence over Harlem. His reputation and connections have established him as a formidable force in the neighborhood's underground crime scene.

Frank Lucas, initially Bumpy's chauffeur, is promoted by Bumpy to become his loyal second-in-command. This turn of events sets the stage for Frank's eventual rise in the criminal underworld following Bumpy's demise.

A devastating heart attack claims Bumpy Johnson's life while he is shopping for electronics. His death creates a power vacuum in Harlem, prompting ambitious newcomers to vie for control in the drug trade.

Detective Richie Roberts grapples with the challenges of a failing marriage, night classes in law school, and increasing pressures as a law enforcement officer. He tries to navigate these hardships while staying committed to his job.

Roberts discovers nearly $1 million in unmarked cash during one of his investigations. Instead of keeping the money, he returns it, earning disdain from his peers and leading to personal and professional turmoil.

After returning the money, Richie is assigned to lead a new task force aimed at targeting drug trafficking in Essex County. This newfound position puts him directly in the line of fire with the drug lords, including Frank Lucas.

Following Bumpy's death, Frank Lucas seizes the opportunity to dominate Harlem's drug market by sourcing heroin directly from Thailand. He introduces the potent 'Blue Magic,' which allows him to undercut competitors with superior pricing.

As Frank's operation grows, he buys nightclubs and luxurious properties while moving his family to New Jersey. This lifestyle transformation underscores his successful but dangerous path in the drug trade.

During the iconic Fight of the Century between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, Richie's attention is drawn to Frank's luxurious lifestyle and connections to organized crime. This event marks a pivotal moment for Richie as he begins to investigate Frank.

Tensions rise when Frank confronts Detective Nick Trupo during his honeymoon, resulting in violent confrontations. This encounter demonstrates the escalating stakes in Frank's criminal dealings and the law's growing interest in him.

The Fall of Saigon severely disrupts Frank's heroin supply chain, leading to turmoil within his ranks. This crisis forces Frank to reconsider his strategies as rivals continue to threaten his empire.

Law enforcement capitalizes on the arrest of Frank's cousin, which leads to a substantial police operation to dismantle his drug shipments. This marks a crucial turning point in the battle between Frank and the authorities.

A dramatic shootout ensues as police storm locations connected to Frank, resulting in violence involving his family. Frank's world collapses as law enforcement closes in on him and his criminal associates.

After his arrest, Frank agrees to testify against corrupt members of the NYPD. This decision marks a betrayal of his criminal associates and significantly impacts the drug trade in New York.

By 1977, Frank and his family enter witness protection to escape the fallout from his past life. Although his sentence is reduced over the years, his struggle with the law remains a persistent theme.