The art direction is splendid, most likely the best of any film Scorsese has ever done. The film deals with a particular time period and a particular atmosphere and accomplishes an overwhelming achievement by creating and accurately portraying both. I would also venture to say that this is probably his most ambitious film.
Along with Mean Streets Casino is probably Scorsese's most underrated and unheralded picture. If you haven't seen Casino yet, stop whatever it is you're doing, rush to the nearest video store, rent it, and watch it.
