Film4 is airing one of Martin Scorsese's most ambitious period dramas this evening, a film that marked a turning point in his career and brought together two actors destined to become Hollywood legends.
Set during the Civil War era, the story unfolds in Manhattan's Five Points district, capturing violent clashes between rival groups competing for control. At its core is a young man struggling to survive amid deep-seated feuds and unstable alliances, where political influence, territorial control, and survival are tightly intertwined.
Scorsese spent years researching the period, relying on genuine historical sources to depict the turbulent social atmosphere of New York during that time.
“Daniel Day-Lewis's portrayal of Bill Cutting I regard as the best performance by any actor in any movie ever.”
“If you don’t recognize this film as a masterpiece, you shouldn’t be allowed to rate movies.”
This film is a landmark in Scorsese’s career, showcasing powerful performances and a vivid depiction of New York’s civil unrest during the 19th century.