America was born in the streets.|Dec. 14, 2002|USA|167 Min.|R
Genre: Crime;Drama;History
Description: “Gangs of New York” (2002) is a historical drama set in the turbulent Five Points neighborhood of Manhattan in 1846. The story revolves around the violent rivalry between two gangs: the Nativist Protestants, led by William “Bill the Butcher” Cutting, and the Irish Catholic immigrants known as the “Dead Rabbits,” led by “Priest” Vallon. During a fierce battle, Bill kills Vallon and declares the Dead Rabbits disbanded. Vallon’s young son witnesses the murder, hides the knife used to kill his father, and is later sent to an orphanage on Blackwell’s Island.
Years later, in 1862, Vallon’s son, now calling himself Amsterdam, returns to Five Points seeking vengeance. He retrieves the knife and reconnects with the local gang scene, where Bill still dominates. Amsterdam gains Bill’s trust and becomes his protégé while secretly plotting to kill him during an annual celebration of Bill’s victory over the Dead Rabbits. Along the way, Amsterdam falls for Jenny Everdeane, a pickpocket and grifter, complicating his relationships and plans.
As Amsterdam’s loyalty to Bill grows, he begins to question his motives, especially after saving Bill from an assassination attempt. However, on the night of the celebration, Amsterdam’s true identity is revealed, leading to a dramatic confrontation. The film explores themes of loyalty, revenge, and power in a gritty portrayal of 19th-century New York.
Cast director: Martin Scorsese
Cast actor: Leonardo DiCaprio, Daniel Day-Lewis, Cameron Diaz, Liam Neeson, Brendan Gleeson, John C. Reilly, Jim Broadbent, Roger Ashton-Griffiths, Lawrence Gilliard Jr., David Hemmings
Original name: Gangs of New York