Review of Gangs of New York (2002) by David S — 04 Feb 2015
If I had to generate a list of the most underrated films of all time, Martin Scorsese's "Gangs of New York" would no doubt make the top of the list. There were mixed critical and audience reviews upon release, and it didn't seem to have the staying power that a movie of its caliber should.
It was nominated for top awards and there are plenty of people who love the film, but to my belief simply not enough who have had the chance to experience it. I am never usually a proponent of set design, costumes, makeup and the such, but this is a film that takes to an era without pulling any punches, truly offering the viewer a time capsule into a very monumental and intriguing time in American history.
Beneath the surface is a simple tale of revenge, Leonardo DiCaprio plays Amsterdam(a name he gave himself), the son of an Irish immigrant out for the blood of the man who slayed his father(Liam Neeson in a small, but powerful role).
Daniel Day-Lewis plays Bill the Butcher, and is the target of Amsterdam's plot. I would make an argument for Bill the Butcher as one of the most impactful, can't-look-away, incendiery characters in film history.
Brought to life by Day-Lewis in what I believe to be his penultimate performance, there is a certain honest bond formed between he and Amsterdam as he is unknowingly being infiltrated. They share a mutual love interest in a well-cast Cameron Diaz.
There are a myriad of gangs, ghettos, politicians, drafts, fresh immigration, prejudice and every other example of the dispicable nature of the 1830's to the 1850's. The dialogue is blunt, and the relationships formed are genuine.
If long movies scare you, fear not, for this movie starts on a high note, and stays there for its entire duration. I am not a historian, but the accuracy of this depiction as far as my understanding is concerned is spot on.
It should be held in high regard as one of the greatest films of all time, and should be seen if for no other reason than to witness the bravura of the one and only Daniel Day-Lewis.
This review of Gangs of New York (2002) was written by David S on 04 February 2015.
Gangs of New York has generally received very positive reviews.
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