Gangs of New York used to be released in 2002 and quickly became a beloved film again in Martin Scorsese’s filmography. The film is based on Herbert Asbury’s 1927 novel, and it looks like Scorsese isn’t done with his universe yet. According to an Deadline report, a TV series based on Gangs of New York is currently in the works at Miramax. The project will be shopped to the premium/streaming marketplace later this month.
Scorsese is said to be heavily involved in the project, serving as an executive producer and directing the first two episodes. This won’t be his first time in the television realm, where he’s directing the pilot episode of Boardwalk Empire and executive producer of the upcoming series, The Devil in the White City. Brett Leonard wrote the script for the series, with previous experience on television and as a playwright. He has worked on projects such as: Fear the walking dead, Tabooand Low winter sun. According to Deadline, the show will be a new take on the story with an all-new set of characters, so there won’t be a return of Leonardo DiCaprio or, of course, Daniel Day-Lewis.
This is the Second Gangs of New York Series linked to Scorsese
Herbert Asbury’s book leaves a ton of content to be explored in serial form, and the upcoming adaptation is the second TV series Scorsese has been attached to. The Deadline report mentions the 2013 Miramax-announced project that never got off the ground. However, the director’s comments at the time explain why he would be interested in reviving the idea nearly a decade later.
“This time and era of America’s history and heritage is rich in characters and stories that we couldn’t fully explore in a two-hour film,” explains Scorsese. “A television series gives us the time and creative freedom to bring to life this colorful world, and all the implications it had and still has on our society.” The show could be quite successful if it gives a more in-depth look at the characters and the gangs arriving in different cities in the country.
Gangs of New York followed Amsterdam Vallon (DiCaprio) in 1862 when he returned to the Five Points area of New York City seeking revenge against Bill the Butcher. The film received 10 Oscar nominations, although it failed to capitalize at the grand awards ceremony. Given the standout performances and big names attached to the feature film, don’t be surprised if the TV show casts actors of the same caliber. Fans shouldn’t expect the series soon, though, like the final one Gangs of New York series is years away.