The Bottom Line
When you're ready to watch "Gangs of New York," set aside a few hours extra. Loaded with bonus features, viewers are treated to an in-depth look at the period of history featured in "Gangs."
Pros
- Outstanding performance by Daniel Day-Lewis
- Comprehensive collection of bonus features
- Film and history lesson all in one
Cons
- None worth noting
Description
- Optional commentary by director Martin Scorsese;
- Set Design: Dante Ferretti, Martin Scorsese and "Gangs" actors talk about the design of the sets;
- "'Exploring the Sets of 'Gangs of New York:'" Walking tour with 360 degree pop-ups;
- Costume Design: Designer Sandy Powell and Martin Scorsese explain the costume choices;
- "History of the Five Points:" Featurette with details on the real Five Points;
- "Discovery Channel Special: Uncovering the Real Gangs of New York;"
- "The Hands That Built America" - Music Video by U2;
- Theatrical and teaser trailers
Guide Review - "Gangs of New York" Movie - DVD Review
Set in the Five Points section of Manhattan in the 1800s, "Gangs of New York" centers around Amsterdam Vallon (Leonardo DiCaprio) a young Irish immigrant who watches his father brutally slain by the leader of a rival New York street gang, Bill the Butcher (Daniel Day-Lewis). The film follows Amsterdam as he struggles for survival while seeking vengeance against the ruthless killer.
Director Martin Scorsese waited decades to bring "Gangs of New York" to the big screen and audiences can be thankful he persisted in his enthusiasm to tell a story about the colorful history of New York. His love for the city and its disturbing, violent past are evident in every frame of this epic motion picture.
