Set during the Civil War, Gangs of New York tells the story of Amsterdam Vallon (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his journey to avenge the death of his father - the leader of the Irish gang, the Dead Rabbits - "Priest" Vallon (Liam Neeson) by going after his killer, Bill "The Butcher" Cutting (Daniel Day-Lewis) leader of the gang, the Natives.
The film sees many historical events like Irish immigration, New York Draft Riots and the abolishment of slavery. I watched this film again last night and running at 2 hours 40 minutes I probably shouldn't have put it on at midnight. However despite it not finishing until close to three in the morning I wasn't tired for a second, the film is that good and captivating that afterwards I'm reminded of the talent posessed by Martin Scorsese. The performance given by Daniel Day-Lewis is one of his best, he brings humanity but also a true darkness to the character of Bill. You understand why this film was nominated for what seems like every award there is, after seeing it. The gritty and bloody world of Gangs of New York can only grow in importance and will stay with you as a true epic. The last scene is one of my favourite endings in film, its a heartbreaking sight that sums up the movie perfectly.
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