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Goodfella
When I first started getting serious about promoting Siteway I sent t-shirts with my Scorsese on them to Albert and Allen Hughes, the brothers behind the Scorsese influenced Menace II Society. It's a film that still disturbs me. From time to time I wonder if they got them and, if they did, if they wear them on set. ¶ Here's an excerpt from a New York Times article (registration required) on Martin Scorsese's 2002 effort, Gangs of New York: Marty is only interested in making the right picture," Mr. Zaentz said. "He will make it no matter what he has to do. And he is strong enough to fight for what he believes in. Harvey's interest, on the other hand, is not the same as Marty's. It is about making money." ¶ The budget for "Gangs" has ballooned to more than $103 million from the original $83 million — some of which is being paid for by Mr. Scorsese and Mr. DiCaprio, who plays the lead character, according to two people involved in the film. At that price—high even by today's standards—it would be the most expensive movie in Miramax's 22-year history. ¶ Mr. Weinstein and Mr. Scorsese declined to be interviewed but released this statement: "As the only two decision makers on `Gangs of New York' we would be happy to discuss this film in the context of an art versus commerce article when the story is an informed one, which clearly hinges on the final film being screened." ¶ Further, they said, they have a "terrific working relationship" and the experience was "fun." ¶ Clearly, said a Miramax spokeswoman, the two have a lot riding on this movie. They are so concerned that they called in Pat Kingsley, one of Hollywood's most influential spin doctors, to help handle the media. |
