Review of GoodFellas (1990) by Nicholas B — 08 Feb 2018

Goodfellas, is quite possibly, the greatest mobster film of all-time, for several reasons. Firstly, the ensemble cast is brilliant. Joe Pesci, Robert De Niro, and Ray Liotta are great, believable leads, but they are helped by great performances from Sorvino, Bracco, and Low.

Secondly, the character development and story pacing is perfect. In the first act, we are provided with Henry's upbringing and his introduction into the mob: his rise. The second act, provides us with Henry, Pesci, and De Niro in the prime of their lives. And finally, the third act shows us how it all falls apart. It should be noted that the narration throughout the film, definitely adds a greater sense of personality.

Overall, Scorsese pulls off a masterclass in depicting Henry Hill's life style, and even with the film sitting at almost two and a half hours, it doesn't drag. Every scene contains meaning, and provides a greater sense of perception into the social hierachy/inner-workings of the mob.