GOODFELLAS (1990)

Film of the Day #151

GOODFELLAS
1990 • Martin Scorsese

Screenplay: Nicholas Pileggi, Martin Scorsese; Based on Wiseguy by Nicholas Pileggi
Producer: Irwin Winkler
Cast: Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, Joe Pesci, Lorraine Bracco, Paul Sorvino, Frank Sivero, Tony Darrow, Mike Starr, Frank Vincent, Chuck Low, Frank DiLeo, Henny Youngman
Cinematography: Michael Ballhaus

Warner Bros. Pictures

As far back as I can remember I always wanted to be a gangster.

When it comes to gangster movies, Goodfellas is the pinnacle of perfection. It's a film that sets the bar so high that few others can even come close, outside of the first two Godfather films. Every frame, every voice-over, every song, it all comes together at the exact right moment to create the perfect cinematic experience. Martin Scorsese, the maestro behind the camera, conducts a symphony of crime, loyalty, and betrayal that resonates with audiences to this day.

Scorsese delves deep into the gritty and exhilarating world of organized crime. The story unfolds through the eyes of Henry Hill, a young and impressionable kid from a working-class neighborhood who aspires to be a part of the glamorous and dangerous mob life. Guided by the charismatic mobster Jimmy Conway and the volatile Tommy DeVito, Henry climbs the criminal ladder, becoming entangled in a web of violence. The film doesn’t shy away from depicting the graphically violent reality of life in the mob, while also painting an intoxicating picture of its allure. Its devastating consequences on the lives of those involved. As the walls close in on Henry, the film explores the dark underbelly of the American Dream.

Goodfellas is a cinematic tour de force that masterfully combines gritty realism with bursts of dark humor. Scorsese's direction, paired with stellar performances by Ray Liotta, Robert De Niro, and Joe Pesci, elevates this crime drama to iconic status. With its unforgettable characters, stylish cinematography, and pulsating soundtrack, "Goodfellas" stands as a timeless classic that offers an unflinching look into the criminal underworld, ultimately posing the question: Is the pursuit of power and wealth worth the ultimate price?

The performances in the film elevate it to another level of excellence. Ray Liotta, Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci (who won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor), Lorraine Bracco, and Paul Sorvino make their characters believable, forming a tightly-knit family. De Niro, in one of his finest performances, shines as Jimmy Conway, even though he's more of a supporting player in this ensemble cast. His portrayal adds a certain charisma to the film's array of memorable characters. Goodfellas is not just a mafia movie; it's a story of the working man's perspective on the criminal underworld. It's where The Godfather gave us a look at the top level of running a “family”, Goodfellas takes us to the gritty streets. It's no surprise that, retrospectively, the only other artistic work that rivals its quality in the mafia genre is "The Sopranos," which debuted nearly a decade later.

Goodfellas stands as Martin Scorsese's magnum opus, which is impressive considering that all-time classics like Raging Bull, The Departed, Taxi Driver, The King of Comedy, Casino, Gangs of New York and The Last Temptation of Christ are all part of his filmography. Goodfellas showcases a director at the peak of his talents. The camera work is nothing short of brilliant, with standout shots like the iconic long take entering the Copa Cabana and the haunting red-tinted silhouette of Henry and his crew burying a body.

Goodfellas is not just about crime; it's a multifaceted exploration of various themes, including loyalty, friendship, family dynamics, the allure of power, the consequences of one's choices, and betrayal. The movie delves deep into the complex psychology of Henry Hill, showcasing his rise, his fall, his flaws, vulnerabilities, and moral dilemmas. His character arc is one of the central pillars of the film's narrative. Henry starts as an impressionable young kid who idolizes the glamorous and dangerous world of the mafia. We see Henry's transformation into an active and successful gangster, and we see his moral failings and strategic setbacks turn him into a desperate, drug-addled “rat,” willing to betray his friends for his safety. Henry's complexity lies in his moral ambiguity. He is seduced by the power, wealth, and sense of belonging that the mob provides, but he also grapples with the consequences of his choices. Throughout the film, we witness his inner conflict as he tries to balance the allure of the criminal lifestyle with his growing awareness of its destructive nature. He is a compelling protagonist.

Several cast members in smaller roles would later become iconic figures in another seminal work, "The Sopranos." Michael Imperioli, known for his portrayal of Christopher Moltisanti, has a memorable role as Spider, the ill-fated bartender in Goodfellas. Tony Sirico, who would go on to play Paulie Gualtieri, also makes an appearance. Additionally, Frank Vincent, who portrayed the ruthless Phil Leotardo, appears as the character Billy Batts (“Go home and get your shine box”.) These connections between the two works add an extra layer of intrigue for fans of gangster themed media.

At the following year’s Oscars ceremony, Goodfellas, a gritty, pulse-pounding masterpiece, faced off against Dances with Wolves, Kevin Costner’s epic Western. Dances with Wolves claimed the Best Picture trophy, a decision that has been scrutinized and debated ever since. Goodfellas had set an exceptionally high standard for storytelling, filmmaking, and performances leaving an indelible cultural and cinematic impact. The choice to award Dances with Wolves over Goodfellas remains a point of contention among cinephiles and critics, making it one of the most notorious Oscar snubs in history. Nevertheless, both films continue to be celebrated, each offering a unique and compelling cinematic experience in its own right.

Direction, cinematography, acting, music… in every sense, Goodfellas is perfection.

I'm funny how, I mean funny like I'm a clown, I amuse you? I make you laugh, I'm here to fuckin' amuse you? What do you mean funny, funny how? How am I funny?

Notable Accomplishments

• 6 Academy Award Nominations including Best Picture and Best Director

• Academy Award Winner: Best Supporting Actor - Joe Pesci

• 5 BAFTA Award wins including Best Film and Best Director

Streaming: AMC+
Digital Rental/Purchase: Available at most digital retailers
Physical Media: Available on 4K, Blu-Ray and DVD