Gangs of New York

About This Movie

Gangs of New York has this gritty, almost raw feel to it, like you can practically smell the muck of 1860s New York. Scorsese really nails the chaos of the Five Points, and the scale of the set pieces is impressive—those street battles have a raw impact. DiCaprio and Day-Lewis are a study in contrasts; their performances are both fierce and nuanced. The pacing drags in spots, but it builds to an explosive climax that feels earned. It's interesting how it tackles themes of immigration and identity, tangled with personal vendettas. The practical effects, especially in the large crowd scenes, make it feel grounded. It's one of those films that might not sit well with everyone, but it sticks with you in a way that's hard to shake.

Released in December 2002. · Shot on location in Rome for authentic period feel. · Cinematography by Rodrigo Prieto, notable for its rich color palette. · Features a mix of practical effects and extensive crowd scenes.