Contributed on 11/8/07 by Jason Mantez

For most moviegoers, American Gangster is simply another opportunity to see Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe match wits on the big screen. The perspective is much different from the eyes of Frank Lucas Jr., the son of the “original American Gangster” Frank Lucas who is portrayed by Washington in the crime-drama. The younger Lucas is an aspiring rapper, but interestingly enough he has chosen not to feed into the violence that is often associated with the stereotype of a gangster.

When asked about the film based upon his father’s life, Lucas pushes the notion that the term “gangster” does not have to be restricted to a negative context. While he acknowledges that much can be learned from the consequences faced by his father, he also stresses that the “gangster” aura must be redefined. Rather than associate the term with violence, Lucas hopes to convey that a true gangster is anyone who excels in their field of choice and surpasses their competition. So, for example, a person could become a gangster in a positive light by scoring the most points in a basketball game or being at the top of their class.

Lucas has also been very vocal about Jay-Z’s new album, which was inspired by the movie about Frank’s father. While Lucas has mentioned that he is a fan of Jay’s work, he is quick to note that Jay never met with his father about the project, whereas Denzel Washington did meet with the elder Lucas about his movie role. The criticism may seem to be a publicity stunt at first glance, but it is understandable that Lucas would feel as if the only way to truly be inspired by his father would be to meet with him face-to-face. Regardless of his slight discrepancy with Jay, the younger Lucas has expressed respect for Jay’s ascension in the music-business and hopes to one day indulge in the success of his own career as an emcee.

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