Film4 is airing one of Martin Scorsese's most ambitious period epics, marking a critical turning point in his career. This film brought together two actors who later became Hollywood legends.
The story unfolds during the Civil War era, portraying violent clashes between rival factions fighting for control of Manhattan's Five Points district. The plot centers on a young man striving to survive amidst entrenched vendettas and shifting alliances, where political influence, territorial control, and survival are deeply connected.
Scorsese spent years researching this period, using authentic historical sources to create a vivid depiction of New York's turbulent social environment at the time.
Daniel Day-Lewis's portrayal of Bill Cutting is regarded as "the best performance by any actor in any movie ever."
A critic stated, "If viewers fail to acknowledge the film's status as a 'masterpiece,' you shouldn't be allowed to rate movies."
Author's summary: This Scorsese epic, set in Civil War-era Manhattan, features landmark performances by DiCaprio and Day-Lewis, redefining the director's career with its authentic historical portrayal and gripping narrative.