Review of Gangs of New York (2002) by Mrmoviebuff — 29 Jul 2016

Martin Scorsese takes us back in time to a blood-filled and corrupt America in 'Gangs of New York', a story about a young man's revenge during a violent time in the city, and his discovery as to who he really is.

The story begins where we see a man named Priest Vallon (Liam Neeson), the leader of the "Dead Rabbits" as he goes to war with the Natives led by the evil Bill "The Butcher" Cutting (Daniel Day-Lewis). The fight ends with Bill ultimately killing Priest, leaving his son, Amsterdam, to run away, vowing revenge on The Butcher.

Years later, Amsterdam (now played by Leonardo DiCaprio), returns to New York, still planning his revenge. He runs into a former childhood friend named Johnny (Henry Thomas) who takes him to Bill, who doesn't recognize the now older Amsterdam. Bill welcomes Amsterdam with open arms into his group, and sees that Amsterdam is a worthy addition to his gang. Amsterdam also runs into a snitch named Jenny (Cameron Diaz), she has had some history with the Butcher, and seems to also not be very fond of him either.

Scorsese does a good job re-creating the aesthetic of 19th Century America, this is a rich, lively, blood-filled take on a more violent and corrupt America. Daniel Day-Lewis steals the show as the menacing Butcher, he has the sharp charisma to pull it off very well. DiCaprio also does a good job to play the dark and damaged young hero, driven by revenge and hatred, he has the sympathetic charisma to pull that role off well.

The film can get melodramatic from time to time, and some of the scenes involving the structure and some of the fights can feel messy and scrambled. But, Scorsese packs a punch and directs it with such focus. This may not rank with Scorsese's best efforts, but it's one many fans of the director should see.