As far as Hollywood actors go, Denzel Washington could be considered a household name.

However, I am excited about the fact that this could change soon enough.

WhenAmerican Gangsterpremiered in 2007, it was bound to be a box office hit.

Denzel Washington pointing a gun in American Gangster

Universal Pictures, Paramount Pictures

Ultimately, it has to do with the projects he has picked.

Other franchise films and blockbusters have made way more.

Take his co-star, Russell Crowe, for instance.

Russell Crowe looking sideways with a serious expression in American Gangster

American Gangster is a 2007 crime film directed by Ridley Scott, featuring Denzel Washington as Frank Lucas, a heroin kingpin in Harlem, and Russell Crowe as Richie Roberts, the detective determined to bring him down. The film explores the rise of Lucas in the drug trade and the eventual intersection of their lives amidst the backdrop of a corrupt and morally complex society.

Could Any Of Denzel Washington’s Upcoming Movies Beat American Gangster’s Box Office?

Of course, box office numbers are not everything.

In this way, the money is far less important than the feelings Washington’s movies evoke.

Denzel Washington Smiling and shaking someone’s hand in Gladiator 2

That is likely whyAmerican Gangsterhas held its record for so long.

Macrinus (Denzel Washington) seated in a golden chair and looking thoughtful in Gladiator 2

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American Gangster is a 2007 crime film directed by Ridley Scott, featuring Denzel Washington as Frank Lucas, a heroin kingpin in Harlem, and Russell Crowe as Richie Roberts, the detective determined to bring him down. The film explores the rise of Lucas in the drug trade and the eventual intersection of their lives amidst the backdrop of a corrupt and morally complex society.

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