Martin Scorsese's classic film Gangs of New York is kind of based on a true story. So what is true and what is fiction?. Gangs of New York is loosely based on a true story, and it is not a strictly factual retelling of historical events but rather a work of historical fiction that draws inspiration from actual events.
Gangs of New York is loosely based on a true story, and it is not a strictly factual retelling of historical events but rather a work of historical fiction that draws inspiration from actual events.. Members of the Five Points Gang of New York City Founded by Paul Kelly (born Paolo Antonio Vaccerelli), an Italian American who earned his money prizefighting and running brothels, the Five Points Gang became a national crime syndicate with a reputation for brutality, and in battles with rival gangs, often fought to the death.