Gangs of New York (2002) Review in 2025
Gangs of New York is a historical drama set in 19th-century New York City, following the story of Amsterdam Vallon and his quest for revenge against the leader of the Natives gang, Bill 'The Butcher' Cutting.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for family viewing due to graphic violence, strong language, and mature themes.
CineReview Recommendation
Gangs of New York is a must-see for fans of historical dramas, action, and adventure. It's a complex and engaging film that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Watch it in theaters for the full cinematic experience.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The movie takes a dark turn when Amsterdam discovers the truth about his father's death and the role Bill 'The Butcher' Cutting played in it, leading to a violent confrontation between the two gangs.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a complex plot that explores themes of revenge, loyalty, and redemption. The historical setting is vividly brought to life, with attention to detail and accuracy.
acting9.50/10
The acting is superb, with standout performances from the entire cast. Leonardo DiCaprio and Daniel Day-Lewis are particularly impressive, bringing depth and nuance to their characters.
characters9.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Amsterdam Vallon being a particularly compelling protagonist. The performances are excellent, with standout turns from Leonardo DiCaprio and Daniel Day-Lewis.
direction9.50/10
Martin Scorsese's direction is masterful, with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the material. The pacing is well-balanced, with a mix of intense action sequences and quieter moments of introspection.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with a vivid color palette and impressive use of lighting. The camerawork is inventive and dynamic, with a range of techniques used to create a sense of tension and energy.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's strong performances, engaging storyline, and masterful direction make it a standout in the historical drama genre.
Cons
Some viewers may find the graphic violence and strong language off-putting, and the pacing can be slow at times.
Notable Quotes
"I'll never forget what you did to me, Bill. I'll never forget."
"I'm the king of this island!"
"You're a fool, Amsterdam. You're a fool for thinking you can take on the Butcher."
