Summary"Gangs of New York," directed by Martin Scorsese and released in 2002, is a historical epic that delves into the violent underbelly of 19th-century New York City. The film opens in 1846, in the notorious Five Points district, a melting pot of poverty, crime, and ethnic tension. The narrative kicks off with a brutal gang war between the native-born Protestant Confederation of American Natives, led by the ruthless Bill "The Butcher" Cutting, and the immigrant Irish Catholics, known as the...
Summary
"Gangs of New York," directed by Martin Scorsese and released in 2002, is a historical epic that delves into the violent underbelly of 19th-century New York City. The film opens in 1846, in the notorious Five Points district, a melting pot of poverty, crime, and ethnic tension. The narrative kicks off with a brutal gang war between the native-born Protestant Confederation of American Natives, led by the ruthless Bill "The Butcher" Cutting, and the immigrant Irish Catholics, known as the Dead Rabbits, led by "Priest" Vallon. The opening battle is a chaotic and visceral sequence that ends with the death of Priest Vallon, witnessed by his young son Amsterdam. This event becomes the catalyst for the film's central plot, as Amsterdam vows to avenge his father's death.
The story then jumps forward 16 years, with an adult Amsterdam Vallon, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, returning to the Five Points after spending his formative years in a reform school. The New York he returns to is a city simmering with racial and political tensions, on the brink of the Civil War. Amsterdam enters a world where Bill the Butcher, portrayed by Daniel Day-Lewis in an Oscar-nominated performance, holds sway over the Five Points, exerting power through a combination of fear, charisma, and cunning political alliances. As Amsterdam ingratiates himself into Bill's inner circle, he is torn between his desire for vengeance and the complex relationship he develops with his father's killer. This tension is further complicated by his romantic involvement with Jenny Everdeane, a pickpocket played by Cameron Diaz, who also has a complicated history with Bill.
Scorsese paints a vivid portrait of the time, using the chaotic and vibrant backdrop of the Five Points to explore themes of immigration, identity, and power. The film meticulously recreates the period, highlighting the rampant corruption and the volatile social dynamics that defined New York City during this era. The script, co-written by Jay Cocks, Steven Zaillian, and Kenneth Lonergan, weaves historical events such as the Draft Riots of 1863 into the personal vendettas and power struggles of the characters. These riots, a reaction to the Union's conscription laws, serve as the film's climactic backdrop, with the chaos and bloodshed in the streets mirroring Amsterdam's internal conflict and the violent struggle for control over the Five Points.
As the narrative progresses, Amsterdam's quest for revenge becomes more complex, as he recognizes the broader implications of his actions within the socio-political landscape of the city. The film's supporting cast includes an array of colorful characters, such as Brendan Gleeson's Monk McGinn, a former Dead Rabbit turned local politician, and John C. Reilly's corrupt police officer Happy Jack Mulraney. The ensemble cast contributes to the film's rich tapestry, each character adding depth to the portrayal of a city grappling with transformation. The alliances and betrayals that unfold throughout the film reflect the turbulent nature of New York itself, a city constantly in flux, shaped by the forces of immigration, industrialization, and political upheaval.
"Gangs of New York" culminates in a climactic showdown between Amsterdam and Bill the Butcher amidst the chaos of the Draft Riots. The film's final sequences are a blend of personal and historical drama, as the personal vendetta between the two men plays out against the backdrop of a city in flames. In the end, Amsterdam's journey is one of understanding and reconciliation with his father's legacy, as well as an acknowledgment of the ever-changing nature of New York City. The film closes with a poignant montage that spans the evolution of the city over a century, underscoring the enduring impact of the immigrant experience in shaping the American identity. Scorsese's film is a visceral and ambitious exploration of a pivotal moment in history, brought to life through powerful performances and masterful storytelling.
Dialogues"The earth turns, but we don't feel it move."
This line reflects on the idea that life's changes are often subtle and go unnoticed, urging us to remain aware of the shifts in our own lives.
"Civilization is crumbling, isn’t it?"
This quote speaks to the chaos and decay present in society, prompting reflection on the importance of maintaining moral values and social order.
"You can always hire half the poor to kill the other half."
This cynical observation highlights the exploitation of the vulnerable and serves as a commentary on class warfare and manipulation.
"I’m forty-seven. Forty-seven years old. You know how I stayed alive this long? All these years?"
Here, the speaker emphasizes the importance of survival skills and experience in navigating a harsh world.
"The appearance of law must be upheld, especially while it’s being broken."
This statement underscores the hypocrisy often present in systems of power, where legality is often just a facade.
"There’s no need for bloodshed. This is a day for celebration."
A call for peace and unity, this line reminds us that conflict often overshadows moments that should be joyous and harmonious.
"When you kill a king, you don’t stab him in the dark. You kill him where the whole court can watch him die."
This quote speaks to the importance of making bold and decisive actions in public, where they can have the most impact.
"The blood stays on the blade."
A metaphor for the lasting consequences of violence, emphasizing that actions have enduring impacts.
"We hold the knife by the blade!"
This suggests taking control of a dangerous situation, even if it means getting hurt in the process.
"It’s a funny feeling being taken under the wing of a dragon."
Reflects on the paradox of finding protection from a dangerous source, suggesting complexity in relationships.
"I never had a good thing in my life that didn’t come from misery and pain."
This line captures the idea that often, the greatest joys and successes are born from struggle and hardship.
"The past is a torch that lights our way."
Emphasizes the importance of history and our experiences in guiding present and future actions.
"No son of mine will ever be a coward."
This declaration highlights values of courage and bravery as central to personal and familial identity.
"You know how I stayed alive this long? Fear. The spectacle of fearsome acts."
Here, the speaker suggests that projecting power and invoking fear are key to survival in a brutal world.
"A man who’s got no fear is a fool."
Wisdom is conveyed in acknowledging fear as a natural and necessary aspect of life, rather than something to be entirely eradicated.
"He was the only man I killed worth remembering."
This line reflects on the profound impact certain individuals can have on our lives, even in death.
"You can always hire half the poor to kill the other half."
A commentary on social manipulation and the exploitation of the disadvantaged by those in power.
"The spectacle of fearsome acts, that's what'll keep them in line."
This underscores the use of intimidation and fear as tools for maintaining control and order.
"I took the father, now I'll take the son."
Speaks to cycles of revenge and the perpetuation of conflict across generations.
"We have been whipped, and beaten, and lied to!"
A call to action against oppression and injustice, urging collective awareness and resistance.
FactsThe Set Was Built from Scratch
The entire Five Points neighborhood, where much of the movie takes place, was meticulously constructed from scratch on the Cinecittà Studios lot in Rome, Italy. This allowed for complete control over the environment, adding authenticity to the film's setting.
Daniel Day-Lewis Trained as a Butcher
To fully embody the character of Bill the Butcher, Daniel Day-Lewis apprenticed under a real butcher for several months. This dedication to his craft is a hallmark of Day-Lewis’s method acting approach.
Long Development Process
The film was in development for over 20 years. Director Martin Scorsese first began exploring the idea in the late 1970s but faced numerous challenges before production finally began in 2000.
Authentic Period Costumes
The film's costume designer, Sandy Powell, used authentic fabrics and techniques from the 19th century to create the movie’s wardrobe, aiming to accurately reflect the era's style and wear.
Leonardo DiCaprio and Daniel Day-Lewis's Intense Scene
In the scene where Bill the Butcher throws a knife at Leonardo DiCaprio's character, the knife was actually thrown for real to capture a genuine reaction, although it was aimed at a protective board near DiCaprio.
Massive Budget Overruns
The original budget of $83 million ballooned to over $100 million due to extended shooting schedules and the detailed set constructions, making it one of the most expensive films of its time.
Historical Accuracy and Creative License
While the film is based on real events and figures from New York's history, Scorsese and the writers took creative liberties to enhance the dramatic narrative, blending factual history with fictional storytelling.
Scorsese's Personal Connection
Martin Scorsese was driven to make "Gangs of New York" partly due to his own family’s history as Italian immigrants in New York City, bringing a personal touch to the film’s exploration of American identity.
Trivia
One of the most fascinating behind-the-scenes secrets about "Gangs of New York" is its long journey from concept to screen. The film was a passion project for director Martin Scorsese, who had been nurturing the idea since the 1970s. Scorsese's determination to recreate the gritty, tumultuous world of 19th-century New York City led to a partnership with Italian producer Alberto Grimaldi. The film's production took over two decades to materialize, partly due to its ambitious scale and the financial risks involved. Scorsese's commitment was so intense that he even constructed a massive set at Rome’s Cinecittà Studios, replicating the Five Points neighborhood with meticulous detail, ensuring authenticity in every frame.
In terms of casting, Daniel Day-Lewis's transformation into Bill the Butcher remains one of cinema's most remarkable performances. Known for his method acting, Day-Lewis immersed himself deeply into the role, reportedly sharpening his skills as a butcher for the part. He refused to break character during the entire shoot, even when suffering from pneumonia because he believed wearing modern medicine would compromise the authenticity of his performance. His dedication paid off, as he delivered a chilling portrayal that left a lasting impact on audiences and cemented his reputation as one of the greatest actors of his generation.
As for Easter eggs, "Gangs of New York" pays homage to Scorsese’s cinematic influences and historical references. Sharp-eyed viewers might notice the use of color and costume design to subtly indicate the power dynamics and allegiances within the film. The character of Bill the Butcher, for instance, often sports a red, white, and blue motif, symbolizing his nativist motivations. Additionally, Scorsese includes nods to classic gangster films, cleverly weaving them into the narrative and visual style, which enhances the film’s rich tapestry and provides a deeper layer of engagement for film aficionados.
The psychological depth of "Gangs of New York" is another intriguing aspect that enriches its narrative. The film explores complex themes of identity, revenge, and the search for belonging within a rapidly changing society. The protagonist, Amsterdam Vallon, portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio, embodies the struggle between personal vengeance and the greater good. Scorsese delves into the psychological turmoil faced by characters caught between their past and the uncertain future, using the chaotic backdrop of New York’s formative years as a metaphor for internal conflict. This approach not only adds emotional resonance to the story but also invites viewers to reflect on the timeless nature of such themes.
The impact and legacy of "Gangs of New York" extend beyond its cinematic achievements. The film played a significant role in reigniting interest in New York City's history and the complex socio-political landscape of the 19th century. It also bolstered the careers of its leading cast, with DiCaprio and Day-Lewis delivering standout performances that are often cited in discussions of their best work. Furthermore, the film's critical and commercial success helped to solidify Scorsese’s status as a master filmmaker capable of blending epic storytelling with personal, character-driven narratives, influencing countless directors in the years following its release.
In conclusion, "Gangs of New York" is a testament to the power of perseverance in filmmaking, with its rich tapestry of behind-the-scenes stories, compelling performances, and thematic depth. The film remains a touchstone in Martin Scorsese’s illustrious career, showcasing his ability to craft a gripping historical epic that resonates on multiple levels. Its legacy continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike, proving that even the most daunting projects can become cinematic masterpieces when driven by passion, dedication, and a clear artistic vision.
