Goodfellas

Specs:
Runtime: 139 Minutes
Year: 1990
Format Viewed: DVD


Synopsis:
The story of real life gangster Henry Hill and his life in the mob scene.

I love, love, LOVE this film! Goodfellas is one of those rare masterpieces that only comes around every few years and once it does, you'll never forget it. What makes this film even more amazing is the fact that it is based on a true story and hailed as one of the most realistic, spot on movies to reveal an actual mob scene. So if you've ever been curious what that side of life is like, rent this movie and you'll know exactly. You know what, don't even rent it. Just go straight into buying it because I can guarantee that you'll love this one.

First off, everything about this movie is perfectly shot. The camera work allows you to feel on the scene, taking a stroll with Henry as he introduces the mob family and all of his associates. You forget for awhile that you are actually watching a film and can actually put yourself right there until the very end. The acting is spot on! With big stars like Robert Deniro, Joe Pesci, and Ray Liotta, you can't go wrong. Deniro and Pesci are always a great pair to get together in acting, so you know to expect the very best. As usual Pesci plays a hotheaded tough guy with a wild side that is sure to get him in trouble while Deniro plays a more down to earth, mellow wise guy. Liotta is the center of the film, however, playing Henry Hill. Honestly, they couldn't have picked a better guy. Even his voice has the perfection for the part to it, as he illustrates the story throughout the whole entire movie in novel form.

Oh and shall we talk about the many brilliant scenes in this film? There are so many classics that it's so hard to choose just one, but let me share with you one of my favorites from the movie. It really, truly, needs no words.


Gangster films are always a favorite of mine and there are always many to choose from, but out of all of them, even topping The Godfather, I'm going to say that Goodfellas will always go down as my favorite. It's honest, straight to the point, and as always, a great life lesson as to why living the high life in the mafia never ends well. If you want a good story to watch, check this one out for sure!

10/10 stars

-Kate

I've had many heated debates over whether this movie is better than Casino, another movie along these lines. All in all, I think this movie is a masterpiece of modern film. It's unique first person narrative flows throughout the story very nicely, a feat which has not worked well if at all in the past. The characters come to life due to spot-on acting and a perfect cast. The one-two punch of Deniro and Pesci is always welcome, but Ray Liotta's performance drives it home and pulls the whole movie together.

Put it this way: before I saw Goodfellas, I never cared much for gangster movies. This film has literally opened my eyes to a genre which I have tended to gloss over in the past.

-Jon