American Gangster

(New Windsor) - Universal Studios was at Stewart International Airport last week shooting scene’s for a new movie “American Gangster.”

Cast and crew members began setting up early last week for filming. Utilizing the NFA extension center and a hangar, Director Ridley Scott began shooting the film based on the true story of New York City Police Department Detective Richie Roberts (played by Russell Crowe) and his man hunt for Frank Lucas (Denzel Washington). Lucas grew up in rural, segregated North Carolina. In the early 1970’s he became the biggest heroin dealer in Harlem who smuggled heroin into the U.S. from Vietnam in coffins of American soldiers. After Lucas is caught he helps Roberts hunt down dirty cops and overseas connections.

The movie set included vintage Newark Airport Police Cars and a vintage 1960’s cargo plane. Rappers RZA (Wu-Tang Clan), TI and Common have parts in the movie. RZA plays Jones, an aide to Roberts. TI plays Lucas’ nephew and Common is a member of Lucas’ drug organization.

Pictured to the right are 1960’s and 1970’s vehicles, and at the top 1960’s vintage Cargo Plane used for the filming of American Gangster.