Tags
US/Italy 166m, Colour
Director: Martin Scorsese; Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Daniel Day-Lewis, Cameron Diaz, Liam Neeson, Jim Broadbent, Henry Thomas, Brendan Gleeson, Gary Lewis, John C. Reilly
Based on 19thC historical events which occurred in the Five Points District of New York City, The Gangs of New York is an historically based drama about Irish immigrants who attempted to make new lives for themselves during this tumultuous period of American history. The film’s stunning photography and frighteningly realistic performance by Daniel Day-Lewis as mob boss – Bill “The Butcher” Cutting more than makes up for the syrupy and largely unnecessary romantic plot between Vallon (DiCaprio) and Jenny (Diaz), which otherwise distracts from the more interesting elements of the story and the fascinating historical details that are woven into this darkly entertaining production (Klaus Ming January 2012).
I rather liked this one, even the syrupy and unnecessary romantic plot. It gave me a reason to actually care about a Cameron Diaz performance and a chance to see her as more than a pretty face who is sometimes trapped in an Ashton Kutcher film. That said, it’s Daniel Day-Lewis who makes this film into the powerhouse it is. Well, him and his great supporting cast.
I think my problem is as much with Cameron Diaz as a the sappy love story. I’m not sure what it is about her – but i’ve never been much of a fan of her work.