The rich, violent, turbulent history of America.

Rating: Null/10 (14 January 2011)

Despite some of its flaws, few films are as relevant to these times as Martin Scorsese's historical epic of the birth of modern America, Gangs of New York. At a time when politicians are attempting to reform the immigration policy, this look at a time when all races and groups had some form of antagonism against all other races and groups is very much a testament to the roots of our making this country great.
In looking at this film, there is little doubt that this is one of Scorsese's best and most brilliantly told films from a technical and visual standpoint. Never before, and perhaps never again, has a director put forth such great effort to preserve as much as possible about the details and minute elements that made up life in New York circa 1863. The sets are astonishingly realistic, the costumes first-rate, the extras well-placed and effective. If nothing else, Scorsese has crafted here perhaps the most exquisitely beautiful and bold portrait of American life in the 19th century.
Yet, other elements work just as well. The acting is very fine with Leonardo DiCaprio giving a rousing performance as Amsterdam, son of a slain gang leader returning to avenge his father's death. His nemesis is Bill the Butcher, played with delightful evil by the great Daniel Day-Lewis, a method actor with more than enough determination and diligence to completely embody his character. He is the most flashy and noticeable performer, overshadowing nearly everyone but all credential he received were well-deserved. However, perhaps Cameron Diaz is a bit miscast here, too pretty-faced and valley girl to rightly portray a pickpocketing, street-tough woman.
In all, Scorsese has put together some of the finest technical work he has ever done, his camera never more fluid or bold, the editing crisp and smooth, the cinematography wide and fresh. Yet, at the screenplay level some serious flaws remain, notably at the conclusion. Without giving anything away, one comes away feeling as if the ending was anti-climactic, and the way Scorsese built it all up makes it feel like a real cheat. At times, the story does lag a bit, focusing on characters and subplots not necessary to the main focus on Amsterdam and Bill. Still, in spite of these shortcomings, this is one of Scorsese's more underrated works. It dazzles the eyes and speaks to the heart. This is our history as Americans. The idea is to learn from it so as not to repeat it. That is the message for today, tomorrow and future generations to come.