Martin Scorsese’s Gangs of New York is
technically well-done, but didn’t please me to the extent that I
thought it would. The graphic battle scenes, which shape and
mold it’s character, are there; but I wanted to see more of
them. The thoughtful dialogue is only able to enlighten our
minds for the first hour and a half, and after that; the entire
picture starts to ware thin. For nearly two hours, it builds and
builds, on word after word; but then doesn’t live up to its true
potential. This is, by no means, anti-climatic, but we leave the
theatre in a state of disappointment. After thoroughly analyzing
the screenwriters’ options, I can say that there
were several better endings that could’ve been made. I am
pleased with what Gangs of New York has to offer,
but it doesn’t live up to the hype that was circling around it
prior to release. This is clearly a beautiful work, and I was
moved by its excellent cinematography, costuming, and direction.
But, I am saddened that it is only worth three-and a-half
buckets, the equivalent of an A-.
Scorsese films are usually onscreen knockouts, and easily earn
four.
The performances, aside from the
direction and production, are probably the picture’s best asset.
Leonardo DiCaprio, Daniel Day-Lewis, and Cameron Diaz give swift
interpretations of their characters, and capture the clashing
personalities with skill. DiCaprio isn’t very good alone, but
when sharing the screen with Day-Lewis or Diaz; a giant fire
ignites. He is one of the few, and talented, actors who knows
how to work with others better than themselves. He proved this
in Titanic, when doubling up with Kate Hudson, and
in Catch Me If You Can, when taking on Tom Hanks.
When his character is facing Day-Lewis, a native dignitary who
killed his father; the two are a charismatic combination. They
are able to show hatred for each other, which is accompanied by
a strangely certain fondness. The two capture such an indefinite
feeling; it makes us question their relationship fir the better.
When DiCaprio is sharing a scene with Diaz; it is always, in
some way, sexy. They might be Irish, poor, and living in the
1800’s, but we don’t care. The magic of this film is that it
excels in so many areas.
Before, I stated that this isn’t one
of Scorsese’s best films. But, even so, Gangs of New
York is truly masterful. His direction is crisp, and without
flaw. He also co-wrote and co-produced the film; which is an
extraordinary achievement. He swiftly brings the camera about
each scene, with the utmost care. When viewing any of Scorsese’s
films we sense his presence, because of the certainty in each
movement that is made onscreen. Gangs of New York
is one of purest films of the year, though it might not be one
of the best. Most of this is made possible by the direction.
This fact just goes to prove how good Scorsese is. This is a
film that twists romance, battles, and authenticity together,
and keeps a perfect mix. I don’t think that Gangs of
New York deserves a ton of Oscar Nominations, but it
definitely showcases the best direction of the year; and should
be nominated accordingly. Imagine what Scorsese would be able to
do with a screenplay of average difficulty to direct. He would
sleepwalk through the role, and still, somehow, turn the film
into a masterpiece. This is similar to what Spielberg did with
DiCaprio’s other movie this year, Catch Me If You Can.
Gangs of New York is, at
times, masterful. It is also, at other times, not. I can’t say
that it is as good as the normal Scorsese epic, but his previous
works are some of the best films of all-time. Cameron Diaz,
Leonardo DiCaprio, and Daniel Day-Lewis are excellent
performers, and showcase their talents to the fullest in this
film. The cinematography, by Michael Ballhaus, is beautifully
done, and accompanies Scorsese’s direction wonderfully. The
costume design, By Sandy Powell II, is great to look at; and is
another honorable mention. I would have loved to see a giant and
monstrous battle scene at the very end of the picture. But to
follow the original story and keep some degree of historical
authenticity, the resolution and climax were unchangeable. The
film is – of course – beautiful to look at, but this doesn’t
keep us entertained for the entire time. I was able to admire
Gangs of New York more than I was able to enjoy it.
If you love filmmaking, like me, this is definitely a movie for
you. Others, including the casual movie-goer, are viewing it at
their own risk. After the whopping two hours and forty-four
minutes, a normal person’s attention span will have begun wear
thin. I was moved by the material, and wanted more; to say the
least. For me to say that the general public will like
Gangs of New York, though, is tough. Fans of film should,
without a doubt. But, if you don’t fall into that category, I
suggest that you rent it; just in case you become bored out of
your wits.
-Danny, Bucket Reviews