In the movie Gangs of New York, there is a scene during which the Butcher, Amsterdam, and a wealthy group of New York politicians all pray in their respective locations. Then, the battle begins between the Dead Rabbits, the police force, and the Bowery Boys, and the entire street becomes clouded with smoke and dust.
As the prayer is recited, the locations alternate between those of the wealthy New York politicians, the Butcher, and Amsterdam. The cinematograph of this part shows the relation between the characters. Despite each of the three opposing each other in some way, and the fact that they are soon to be battling in the streets, they still recite the same prayer, which underscores their obscure yet true likeness.
The cloudiness of the streets during the battle created by the smoke makes for an interesting mood of the scene. It seems to possibly underscore the lack of accuracy and reason with which the battle is fought. Although those participating know what they are fighting for, it becomes so overly chaotic that the battle is essentially fought in vain. This is alluded to when Amsterdam says “This will all be finished tomorrow,” and Jenny responds “No it won’t. This whole place is gonna burn anyway” (Gangs of New York). She basically states that no matter the outcome of the battle, it will be a highly destructive bloodbath.
