Goodfellas (1990) Movie review
Martin Scorsese’s Goodfellas, released in 1990, is considered one of the greatest crime movies ever made, and for good reason. The film tells the story of Henry Hill, played by Ray Liotta, a young man who grows up in the world of organized crime and rises through the ranks to become a respected member of the mafia.
The film is based on the real-life story of Henry Hill, and it’s told through his eyes. From the very beginning, we’re introduced to the glamorous lifestyle of the mafia, where money flows freely, and violence is a way of life. Henry’s narration takes us through his life, from his early days as a low-level street thug, to his ascent to power as a trusted member of the mob. Along the way, we’re introduced to a colorful cast of characters, including Jimmy Conway, played by Robert De Niro, and Tommy DeVito, played by Joe Pesci.
What sets Goodfellas apart from other crime movies is its attention to detail. Scorsese and his team went to great lengths to recreate the world of organized crime in the 1950s and 60s, from the costumes to the sets to the music. The film’s soundtrack is filled with classic songs from the era, and they’re used to great effect throughout the movie.
But it’s the performances that really make Goodfellas stand out. Ray Liotta gives the performance of his career as Henry Hill, perfectly capturing the character’s mixture of charm, ruthlessness, and desperation. De Niro is also fantastic as Jimmy Conway, a cool and collected mobster who is always one step ahead of everyone else. But it’s Joe Pesci who steals the show as Tommy DeVito, a violent and unpredictable gangster who is equal parts funny and terrifying. Pesci’s performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, and it’s easy to see why.
The film’s pacing is also worth mentioning. Goodfellas moves at a breakneck pace, with scenes transitioning seamlessly from one to the next. The camera work is also impressive, with long tracking shots and dynamic camera movements that keep the viewer engaged.
Of course, Goodfellas is not without its flaws. Some have criticized the film for glorifying the lifestyle of the mafia, and for not fully exploring the consequences of the characters’ actions. But Scorsese has always been more interested in exploring the psychology of his characters than in passing judgment on them, and in that sense, Goodfellas is a masterpiece.
Overall, Goodfellas is a brilliant film that deserves its place among the all-time greats. With its incredible performances, attention to detail, and fast-paced storytelling, it’s a movie that’s impossible to forget. If you haven’t seen it yet, do yourself a favor and watch it as soon as possible.
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