Search - Hoodlum on DVD

Michel D. (michelann) from WALNUT GROVE, MO
Reviewed on 12/10/2019...

The telling of this character and the era, based on true events, comes from a production made back in 1997. And is interesting to compare to the currently airing Godfather of Harlem starring Forest Whitaker. Great casting in both with plenty of action and violence that was part of that era!

3 of 3 member(s) found this review helpful.

The Unknown Gangster

12/17/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Hoodlum is based upon the true story of Harlem's most unsung hero. Ellesworth "Bumpy" Johnson was an icon in the Harlems number racket and was a man who helped keep the Italian mobsters from taking over Harlem's underworld sooner than they did. He kept peace between rival Italian gangsters and was well respected by most of them. This man actually lived and Hoodlum portrays an accurate interpretation of his life. I rank it on the same level as the Godfather. It was a well acted and suspensefull movie. It is a must see true story based upon people who actually lived. All gangster film lovers must see this. All people who are interested in the history of Harlem's criminal underworld that kept the people from starving during the Depression must see this movie."

Another Great Fishburne Performance!

Sal Paradise | Washington, DC | 04/07/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Among other criticisms of this film was that it was a below average gangster flick, well I didn't see it that way. There was a lot of focus on the characters especially Fishburne's character Bumpy Johnson. Of course the movie highlights his rise in Harlem as opposed to Tim Roth's character (can't spell his name). The dialog was well written, I think that people were not ready for a gangster flick set during the era of Lucky Luciano and the Dutchman, involving a significant number of black characters. Yes I think African Americans were doing something during that time period besides wait for Dr.King to have his "dream". Fishburne played a strong character who took his destiny in his own hands and I think that's really what makes this film highly enjoyable to see."

Great Gangster Flick!!!

07/10/1999

(4 out of 5 stars)

"It may not be Goodfellas or The Godfather, but Hoodlum surely holds its own as a great gangster movie. Not much is known about Bumpy Johhnson, perhaps the most powerful black gangster of his time, and this movie brought his story to light. This film is time spent very, VERY well."