★★★★★★★(7/7)
"Goodfellas" follows New York gangster Henry Hill and his life in the mob. Directed by Martin Scorsese, "Goodfellas" is undoubtedly one of the most influential gangster movies ever made. The film released in 1990 and stars Ray Liotta, Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and others.
From the opening shot of the film, "Goodfellas" captures the viewers attention and will not let it go. The early life of Henry Hill is extremely engaging, as we watch him begin to work for and rise through the ranks of a New York mob. The dialogue is well thought out and poetically written.
Martin Scorsese has become the definitive film director for films set in New York City. It is obvious when watching his films that he has a personal connection to the city and the stories he tells about it. However, compared to all of his other films, "Goodfellas" may do New York best. The world Scorsese builds in this film is wonderful. It will have you feeling as if you live in New York City and know the men who are part of the mob.
A big contribution to the convincing nature of "Goodfellas" is the acting. Ray Liotta plays a very persuasive New York kid turned gangster. His role in scenes involving his family are particularly profound and significant. Joe Pesci plays one of his most iconic roles as Tommy DeVito. The scenes involving his character are lively and intense. He also is the main contributor that made one of the scenes in this film so memorable. Paul Sorvino is the perfect mob boss, Robert De Niro contributes to the danger felt in this film, and Lorraine Bracco does a great job as a wife in turmoil.
The fact that "Goodfellas" is based on a real gang and stunts they performed made this film even greater in my eyes. Martin Scorsese does a great job of showing the appeal of the mafia, while also depicting the more obvious downsides. Watching "Goodfellas" is a full on cinematic experience. There is no doubt it is one of Scorsese's best films (which is even more impressive with his massive collection of masterpieces). It is an exciting and engaging ride the whole way through and is a must see for any fan of cinema.
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