a work of art...

Rating: 10/10 (23 December 2002)

After seeing this film, i feel compelled to speak of its brilliance, for it was such. First and foremost, the acting was absolutely stellar. Daniel Day-Lewis gave one of the finest performances of his illustrious career, if not one of the best all time. Additionally, Cameron Diaz, with such a wonderful portrayal of her character, proved to us all that she is not just eye-candy, but also has a knack for acting. Although his role was minor, Lliam Nielson did an excellent job in setting the tone for the rest of the movie, as it was set around his death. Unfortunately, Leonardo Di Caprio was once again dealt with a performance that was overshadowed by his fellow characters and drowned out by the brilliance of the film. Not to say that the performance was not worthy of praise, though. furthermore, the cinematography was brilliant. it really did convey to the audience a feel of complete disarray in a state of complete and immutable anarchy that the film was set. not only was the scenery magnificent, but so was the score. The composer did an impeccable job in establishing a sort of folksy Irish feel that was essential to comprehending the plot of the film. The memorable opening sequence combined these two factors ever masterfully, to say the least. Yet again, Martin Scorsese has shown the nation why he is such a revered film-maker. Never has a director done a better job in informing the audience on the history of his topic, while overseeing the making of such a high-quality film. Whatever caused the delay in release of Gangs of New York, it was well worth the wait. 10/10. An absolute work of art.