Frank Lucas (also known as "Superfly" in the underground world) is the star of the show in the movie American Gangster which opened in theaters this week.
Jim and I were among the first to see it. We both really enjoyed this movie!
American Gangster is based on a true story (...which is what initially sold me). Like usual, after I see a "fact-based" movie, I run home to learn all I can about the real characters that the movie is based on. In this case... Frank Lucas.
Here's what I found out about Frank "Superfly" Lucas...
The "American Gangster" Movie
American Gangster is based on a true story and presents Frank Lucas as an elegant man and an innovative entrepreneur. He is a loving husband and son, but also the most ruthless drug lord in 1970s New York... This is an interesting film because it throws light on the understated power of an African-American mobster who ran his business as effectively and professionally as any successful CEO would today."
Source
See a current photo of Frank Lucas, as well as a great summary of his life & times.
Here's an excerpt from the piece:
"Frank Lucas, at 77 years old and in a wheelchair, still has a small gang doting on him. Sons, publicists and friends swirl around Lucas in nearly perpetual commotion, fetching him everything from pills to a cooling fan. A recent visitor is directed kindly _ though in no uncertain terms _ in and out of the room. There's still plenty of power left in Lucas's presence, even though his days as a Harlem drug lord are decades past, his millions long ago seized by the government." Source
If you saw the American Gangster movie, and you're wondering if that flamboyant black & white chinchilla coat and hat (that Frank Lucas wore in the movie, which in a small way led to his demise) were "real" or accurately portrayed in the film... Yep, that part was accurate!
Check out this recent photo of Richie Roberts, plus other fact-based accounts from the movie.
The "Mr. Untouchable" Movie
There's another movie (also playing in theaters right now) that shows a different side of the same story. Mr Untouchable is an independent film that gives the point of view of a different character in the American Gangster movie -- Leroy "Nicky" Barnes (played by Cuba Gooding Jr.). Unfortunately, this independent film isn't showing anywhere near me. Bummer. I guess I'll have to wait for the DVD rental.
All in all, it's quite an interesting story.
Now, have you got some time to kill?... If so, then you're sure to enjoy this full-length documentary about Frank Lucas that originally aired on BET. It's in video form for online viewing. Enjoy!
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I too looked for the actors credit for Bumpy Johnson. How cool would it have been if Lawrence Fishburn had played him again since he played him in Cotton Club and Hoodlum. :-)
if only he would have used his talent for good instead of greed
Didn't you people see "Purple Rain"? Clarence Williams III played Prince's father in it.
Miriam -
You're right. There is no reference to who played Bumpy Johnson here or here.
According to The Boston Globe and The Mercury News, drug kingpin Ellsworth "Bumpy" Johnson "was played by an uncredited Clarence Williams III".
Interesting that he didn't appear in the credits...
Jim and Lynnette,
I saw American Gangster last weekend, and noticed that I couldn't find reference to which actor played the part of Bumpy Johnson in the movie.... that actor looks a lot like the real Frank Lucas.... do you have any info on this?
Thanks.