Review of GoodFellas (1990) by Trevor R — 02 Apr 2013

Maybe the best gangster movie ever made, primarily because of how well it de-glamorizes the life of a wise guy. Movies don't get more brutal than this, and it's the remarkable performance of Ray Liotta that works in contrast and makes it bearable.

He's got this subtle sweetness about him that makes you empathize with Henry, despite his actions. It's excellent casting. "Goodfellas" also has some of the best and smartest uses of voice over narration I know of-- it's not just for delivering exposition, but smartly acts as an additional form of character insight.

Scorcese's direction is perfect (I never get tired of his sweeping camera). De Niro is terrific; Pesci is terrifying. The soundtrack is one of the best ever. All around amazing.