Gangsta King: Raymond Lee Washington

Robert Stack hosts this incisive look at Raymond Lee Washington, the founder of the infamous Los Angeles gang the Crips. After the social upheaval of the 1960s, several socially and politically active clubs for young African-Americans sprang up in L.A. Following the dissolution of these groups, Washington created his own group, built on similar ideals; the result was a wave of bloodletting and clashes with rival gangs.

Directed by —, Gangsta King: Raymond Lee Washington leans on a strong ensemble — Alex A. Alonso — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 2003.