The 17-year-old gangster narrative from 17 years ago is available to stream on Netflix.

While Crowe’s protagonist is honorable,American Gangsteris pivotal in demonstrating Washington’s capability for villainous roles.

Effectively, Lucas cuts out the middleman to become a wholesaler for “Blue Magic.”

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He smuggles drugs into the U.S. using military methods used in the Vietnam War.

He is entertaining, but the Roman arms dealer is irrefutably more chaotic and scattered.

This is certainly the case for Macrinus, who can laugh easily and exchange jokes over wine.

Denzel Washington pointing a gun in American Gangster

Universal Pictures, Paramount Pictures

Macrinus and Lucas have some similarities.

They are both calculated, but Lucas is far more focused.

He is unperturbed by Richie and determined.

Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe looking at something on the road in American Gangster

Universal Pictures, Paramount Pictures

Denzel Washington smirking as Macrinus in Gladiator 2

Paramount Pictures

Headshot oF Carla Gugino

Headshot Of Idris Elba In The World premiere of Luther: The Fallen Sun at the BFI IMAX in London.

Movies

American Gangster

Gladiator II