Would have been better a short film than an Epic.

Rating: 5/10 (4 March 2003)

I'll start with the good bit, visually this film is at times stunning.
Unfortunately Martin Scorcese has tried too hard to match his previous masterpieces.
Heading to the movies on a Saturday night with a friend, I convinced him not to see the latest Steven Seagal shoot-em up (something I don't regret), and to come to Gangs of New York with me (which I probably do regret).
It's never a good sign when only 1 hour through the movie we both simultaneously glance at our watches, and look at each other... Epics aren't supposed to seem epicly long.
The plot was frankly weak to start with, was then stretched an hour longer than it deserved.
With a couple of not even note-worthy exceptions, the acting seemed over-hammed, with unbelievable characters. Normal a fan of DiCaprio, his performance was only slightly better than the awful showing by Diaz.
Even the end credits were terrible!!! How can ya screw up credits??
2 ½ hours of my life I'd rather have back, better luck next time Mr Scorcese.