10 Movies & Shows Similar to Gangs of New York (2002)

Description: Like 'Gangs of New York', 'The Godfather' explores themes of power, loyalty, and the immigrant experience in America. Both films delve into the violent and hierarchical nature of organized crime, with strong central characters who navigate complex moral landscapes. The visual storytelling in both films is rich and atmospheric, capturing the gritty reality of their respective time periods.

Fact: Marlon Brando stuffed cotton balls in his mouth to achieve Don Corleone's distinctive voice. The cat held by Brando in the opening scene was a stray found on the set. The film was initially criticized for glorifying violence and the mafia.

Description: This epic crime drama shares with 'Gangs of New York' a sprawling narrative that spans decades, focusing on the rise of criminal organizations in America. Both films examine the personal costs of ambition and the blurred lines between friendship and betrayal. The period settings are meticulously recreated, immersing the viewer in the historical context.

Fact: The original cut was over 10 hours long. Robert De Niro learned to play the saxophone for his role. The film was heavily edited for its U.S. release, cutting nearly 90 minutes.

Description: Similar to 'Gangs of New York', 'The Untouchables' is set in a historical period where law enforcement clashes with organized crime. Both films feature intense, stylized violence and a focus on the moral ambiguities of their protagonists. The cinematography in both films is striking, with a strong sense of place and time.

Fact: Sean Connery won an Oscar for his role as Jim Malone. The famous train station shootout was inspired by the 'Odessa Steps' sequence in 'Battleship Potemkin'. Al Capone's character was based on extensive historical research.

Description: This Coen Brothers film shares with 'Gangs of New York' a focus on the intricate politics of criminal organizations. Both films feature a protagonist caught between loyalty and self-preservation, set against a backdrop of urban violence. The dialogue in both is sharp and memorable, with a mix of brutality and dark humor.

Fact: The film's plot was inspired by Dashiell Hammett's novels. Gabriel Byrne's character was originally written for John Turturro. The hat motif throughout the film was a deliberate stylistic choice.

Description: Like 'Gangs of New York', this film explores the immigrant experience and the allure of organized crime in a specific New York neighborhood. Both films feature a young protagonist torn between two father figures. The period setting is vividly realized in both.

Fact: Robert De Niro's directorial debut. Based on Chazz Palminteri's one-man play. The film was a box office disappointment but gained a cult following.

Description: This Scorsese film shares with 'Gangs of New York' a focus on the rise and fall of a criminal empire, with a strong emphasis on the historical and social context. Both films feature voice-over narration and a sprawling, epic feel. The violence is graphic but serves the story.

Fact: Sharon Stone was nominated for an Oscar for her role. The film is based on the real-life story of Frank Rosenthal. Scorsese used over 50 songs in the soundtrack.

Description: Like 'Gangs of New York', this film explores themes of father-son relationships within the context of organized crime. Both films are visually stunning, with a painterly approach to cinematography that emphasizes the period setting. The emotional tone is similarly somber and reflective.

Fact: Tom Hanks' role as a hitman was a departure from his usual 'nice guy' image. The film was based on a graphic novel. Paul Newman's final on-screen role.

Description: Like 'Gangs of New York', 'The Departed' explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and identity within the world of organized crime. Both films feature intense performances and a gritty, realistic tone. The urban setting is almost a character itself in both films.

Fact: Jack Nicholson improvised many of his lines. The film is a remake of the Hong Kong movie 'Infernal Affairs'. Martin Scorsese won his first Oscar for Best Director for this film.

Description: This film shares with 'Gangs of New York' a focus on the rise of a criminal empire in a specific American city. Both films examine the intersection of crime, politics, and race, with a strong central performance driving the narrative. The period detail in both is meticulously crafted.

Fact: Denzel Washington gained 30 pounds for his role. The real Frank Lucas was a consultant on the film. Ridley Scott directed the film after initially passing on it.

Description: This film shares with 'Gangs of New York' a focus on a notorious criminal figure in American history. Both films blend historical fact with dramatic storytelling, and both feature intense, kinetic action sequences. The period detail is meticulously researched in both.

Fact: Johnny Depp spent time with John Dillinger's relatives to prepare for the role. The film was shot on location in many of the actual places where Dillinger's crimes occurred. Michael Mann used digital cameras to achieve a more immediate, realistic look.