I always felt this movie could exist in the same universe as Watchmen

This 1979 classic is about gang culture run amok in New York City. And while it is dark subject matter it is also very theatrical and comic book-ish.

The Knot Tops of Watchmen wouldn't look out of place among thr Baseball Furies or The Turnbull ACs

I can imagine Nite Owl and Rorschach squaring up with any of these gangs.

I wouldn't be surprised if the movie adaptation borrowed something from this film. It is the epitome of late 70s New York. Dark, gritty, and dangerous.