After watching King Of New York again recently, I noticed that huge emphasis on the 'gothic' and the idea of the 'vampire', (must have been blind not to notice it the first time). This is emphasised especially in Christopher Walken's character. Everything from the way that he is shot in a bluish haze to his 'vampiric' female accomplices. It raises the question, 'is this really a gangster film?'. It follows the 'rise and fall' style of the genre, but it is the subtle aspects of the film that make it edge towards gothic horror. Noteworthy is Ferrara's use of Expressionist-style camera work, and Walken's dream like state - the 'walking dead' gangster who has risen one final time to take revenge on those who have wronged him. Overall a stylish and ambitious film from an extremely unique director.
Review of King of New York
