Gangs of New York

Scorsese has done it again, providing DVD fans with an epic designed to shock and instruct. Come on in and take a look at one of the best DVDs of 2003.

Some consider Martin Scorsese to be a film genius; his critics call him a man without scruples, and in love with his own unique, brutal depiction of violence. In this writer's world, he falls somewhere in between, although I tend to lean towards genius. Creator of some of the most groundbreaking and influential films in modern movie history, Scorsese's most recent epic tale has garnered the expected praise and respect.

As children, we all remember the pictures of "old America" in the history books in school. Old, frumpy men in wigs poring over large documents with flowing scripts, standing before patient and attentive villagers in a church, and gathering in the quaint town squares to protest the tyranny of King George. Gangs of New York will disabuse you of the notion that this country was founded entirely in such a civilized manner; it was also forged in the depths of street hell.

Placed in New York in the 1840's, the movie begins with a memorable opening scene. The Irish-American and Nativists, incapable of working out their differences, have resolved to fight in the streets, in a raw and bloody battle where winner takes all. Young Amsterdam witnesses the fall of his father during the mini-war, a fight that the Nativists, led by the imposing William Cutting aka "Bill the Butcher" (played by Daniel Day-Lewis) win handily.

The boy grows up in an orphanage appropriately entitled the "Hellgate House of Reform," and returns to the Five Points and his place of birth, seeking revenge for his father's death. Here, the plot becomes complicated, as Bill the Butcher takes a liking to the new kid on the block, and confides in him because he sees promise in the young lad. Of course, this "promise" revolves around violence and not much else, as he teaches Amsterdam, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, how to dish out killing blows using a huge butcher's knife and a pig's carcass.

Everything comes to a head when Bill finds out that Amsterdam is the son of his long-dead rival, Priest Vallon (played fittingly during the initial battle by Liam Neeson). Before the end comes, we vividly encounter the corrupt politics of old New York, the brutality of men and what they're capable of when faced with a threat to their land, and how two men seem destined to clash.

Not being a fan of either DiCaprio or Cameron Diaz, I must still grudgingly admit that both did a fantastic job in their roles. DiCaprio has some extraordinary moments, and you would be extremely hard-pressed to find another actor who would fit the role of Amsterdam better. However, Day-Lewis very nearly steals the show from DiCaprio, in a singularly powerful performance that was more than effective. The mocking and even sardonic smirk, coupled with his barbaric outlook on life, gives his character of Bill the Butcher a terrifying demeanor. We are frightened of the man throughout the movie, although we may not be entirely sure why all the time.

Diaz plays Jenny, the daughter of a wealthy man in town who inexplicably "dresses up" as a poor street girl who likes to pick pockets. Amsterdam and Jenny begin a whirlwind relationship that hits nearly every emotional peak in the film when she successfully steals a few precious items right out from under his nose. Once he tracks her down, the dance begins. An actress with enormous potential and given just the right role here, Diaz plays the character well, with just the right amount of fear and feeling.

The coloring and backdrops in the movie are bright and finely detailed. It is a dark and depressing tale, but it is not painted in dark, depressing tones. In fact, the lively images conflict heavily with the very nature of the film; a violent and dramatic story of politics, love, and men fighting for what they believe in. There are no false pretenses and the movie pulls no punches. This it the bare bones, bare-knuckled depiction of one of the more repressed, yet no less important, times in American history.

The DVD consists of plenty of extras, including information on the cast, director commentary, and many other options for those that wish to learn more about the making of Gangs of New York. You may also wish to take a look at the historical facts surrounding the film; these are tidbits of history that you may not have studied back in elementary school.

Overall, Gangs of New York is a ride that you won't regret taking. It can drag in certain places, and the screenplay is designed for a more hectic pace, but the 2 hour, 45-minute production is not overdone. Remarkable performances, characters to make you shudder in your sleep, and a story that goes much deeper than the fighting on the streets, the movie is certainly deserving of its numerous Academy Award nominations. When you come to Day-Lewis' monologue at the very beginning of the second disc, take time to listen closely to what he says. A better-written script for his character would not be possible.

Ben Dutka
Film Buff, Kikizo Movies