Hey folks Harry here with the Commodore's harmonic look at what could well be Scorsese's next film.... GANGS OF NEW YORK. Last I heard Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert DeNiro were attached and/or talking about doing this project... BUT I haven't heard much recently about the project. It's been on the QT pretty seriously. So if you hear a movement on this one... Let me know...
I am a long time reader but first time writer, since I never had anything to add before. You can call me...The Commodore.
Gangs of New York:
Through a kind friend in L.A. I was able to read what appears to be a recent script (third draft, anyway) for Gangs of New York, written by Jay Cocks and Martin Scorsese. Overall, it is an excellent read with plenty of cool period stuff from mid-19th century NYC, but the characters, and particularly the role De Niro is rumored to play, could use some beefing up, as could the backstory. Spoilers abound, so look out.
Plot:
The script revolves around the battle for control of the "five points" area of New York in the 1840's, and particularly between two gangs, the Dead Rabbits and the Native Americans. In the first 20 pages, the Rabbits leader is killed, and the gang destroyed. The head of the Natives makes a deal with corrupt Boss Tweed to provide muscle throughout New York, enforcing the Tweed law. Years later the son of the dead leader of the rabbits matures and attempts to lead a new version of the gang to strength while trying to kill the leader of the Natives, who killed his father.
Characters:
Amsterdam: This is the Leo role. He is the son of the dead Rabbits leader motivated to kill the Natives leader in revenge. His motivation is clear but is somthing of a one-note character.
Bill the Butcher: This is, I presume, the De Niro role. A bad guy and leader of the Natives, he and Boss Tweed are in cahoots to profit from the city's government. His role is seriously under-written and almost no motivation is provided. He needs an intruiging back story.
Jenny: The girl character who falls in love with Amsterdam, she is smart and independent and determined to stay that way.
Overall, a good read but some more back-story would have been usefull. Should make some neat visuals and the Boss Tweed stuff is great.
