American Gangter: Hit with a law suit?

The makers of American Gangster are being hit with a $55million libel suit. Three former DEA agents have claimed defamation of character. They feel that the movie has inaccurately portrayed them and is now seeking monetary damages. They have strong feelings against being portrayed as criminals and how their role in taking down Frank Lucas has diminished to petty acts of corruption. Former DEA agents Gregory Korniloff, Louis Diaz and Jack Toal took legal action Wednesday against NBC Universal, Stating that it( the movie) falsely claims the cinematic account of real life Harlem drug kingpin Frank Lucas was based on a true story, reports the Associated Press. Magic word here is Based on, not the entire story, but based on. It is a Cinematic account.

“With this utterly false and defamatory statement, the defendant has ruined and impugned the reputations of these honest and courageous public servants in the eyes of millions of people,” said the suit, which seeks class action status.

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NBC Universal, owned by General Electric, denied the allegations, saying: “American Gangster does not defame these, or any, federal agents. The end legend specifically refers to members of ‘New York City’s Drug Enforcement Agency’ — not the federal Drug Enforcement Administration, where the plaintiffs formerly worked. We believe the lawsuit is entirely without merit.” [ SOURCE ]

Well it seems that The producers of the film have some work on their hands, however, if the agents have a good lawyer, he would most likely find a way to overlook the BASED ON , disclaimer and go straight for the throat. I am interested in seeing how this plays out.