A Modern Classic Gangster Movie Airing Tonight
Tonight’s TV movie pick (8 November) is Gangs of New York, a period gangster epic directed by Martin Scorsese, known for Goodfellas and The Departed.
About the Film
Based on Herbert Asbury’s 1927 non-fiction book The Gangs of New York, the 2002 film features a star-studded ensemble cast including Oscar-winners Daniel Day-Lewis and Leonardo DiCaprio, alongside Brendan Gleeson, Cameron Diaz, Eddie Marsan, Jim Broadbent, John C. Reilly, Liam Neeson, and Stephen Graham.
Plot Overview
The story follows Amsterdam Vallon (DiCaprio), an orphaned Irish-American in 19th-century New York City. He returns to the Five Points neighborhood seeking vengeance against William ‘Bill the Butcher’ Cutting (Day-Lewis), the ruthless gang leader who killed his father (Neeson) and staunchly opposes immigrants.
“Vallon knows that revenge can only be attained by infiltrating Cutting’s inner circle. Amsterdam’s journey becomes a fight for personal survival and to find a place for the Irish people in 1860s New York.”
Production Background
Long a passion project for Scorsese, Gangs of New York faced a difficult production, running over schedule and budget. Additionally, producer Harvey Weinstein reportedly insisted on cuts, fueling speculation about a longer, unreleased version that may better reflect Scorsese’s original vision.
Author’s summary:
The film is a gritty, intense exploration of 19th-century immigrant struggles and vendettas, highlighted by a powerful cast and complex production history.