Review of Gangs of New York (2002) by Kristin R — 16 Aug 2011
Scorsese's greatest strength as a filmmaker is his ability to exist within his protagonist's head--and to bring the audience right in there with him, not only through his tremendous ability with actors, but with his immense skill with expressionistic formalism.
Unfortunately, some of that depth of character gets lost in the sprawling historical epic revenge story ("Hamlet" in 1860s New York City)--still, this is also one of the great showcases of one of Scorsese's other tremendous talents as a director: his eye for detail in creating a time and place.
"Gangs of New York" works well as drama, but it's even more important as cinematic anthropology--a powerful, indicting bit of forgotten American history brought powerfully to life. Not one of the director's very best, but an incredibly important piece of work nevertheless, and one that, at least for me, definitely improved on second viewing.
This review of Gangs of New York (2002) was written by Kristin R on 16 Aug 2011.
Gangs of New York has generally received very positive reviews.
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