Martin Scorsese‘s Goodfellas , released in theaters on September 19, 1990, is not just a mob movie; it’s a cinematic landmark that redefined the genre. Based on the non-fiction book Wiseguy by Nicholas Pileggi, the film chronicles the rise and fall of Henry Hill, an associate of the Lucchese crime family.
Scorsese’s raw, visceral, and stylistic approach pulls the audience into the intoxicating world of the mob, revealing its allure, its violence, and its ultimate emptiness. The film is a symphony of brilliant performances, masterful direction, and an unforgettable soundtrack.
The plot follows the life of Henry Hill (Ray Liotta), from his early days as a boy fascinated by the gangsters in his neighborhood to his descent into the world of organized crime. He’s mentored by local mob boss Paul “Paulie” Cicero (Paul Sorvino) and quickly becomes a key player alongside his volatile and unpredictable partner, Tommy DeVito (Joe Pesci), and the respected capo Jimmy “The Gent” Conway (Robert De Niro).
The film is a whirlwind of power, money, and violence, depicting the exhilarating high of their criminal life.
However, as the crew rises, their paranoia and recklessness grow, and their world begins to unravel. Henry’s personal life with his wife Karen (Lorraine Bracco) is a constant source of tension, and the film brilliantly shows how the mob’s toxic influence infects every aspect of their lives.
The performances are legendary; Pesci won an Academy Award for his terrifying and unforgettable portrayal of DeVito, and the entire cast, from De Niro’s calculated menace to Liotta’s perfect blend of charm and paranoia, delivered career-defining work.
Frank Vincent, Tony Darrow, Mike Starr, Debi Mazar, Michael Imperioli, Tobin Bell and Samuel L. Jackson round out the cast.
Goodfellas premiered at the 47th Venice International Film Festival on Sept. 9, 1990, where Scorsese was awarded with the Silver Lion Award (Best Director).
Joe Pesci in Goodfellas (Photo/Warner Bros.)
Reception for Goodfellas
Goodfellas grossed $6.37 million on its opening weekend, finishing No. 1 at the box office, narrowly beating Postcards from the Edge, which earned $6.33 million on its second weekend.
Goodfellas would gross $46.9 million in its theatrical run.
Roger Ebert gave the film four out of four stars in his review.
Lasting Legacy
The legacy of Goodfellas is immense and is often cited as one of the greatest films ever made, lauded for its innovative storytelling, non-linear narrative, and fast-paced editing.
The film’s use of voiceover, freeze frames, and an extensive rock and roll soundtrack was groundbreaking.
Goodfellas stripped away the romanticism of the gangster genre, presenting a brutal and unglamorous look at a life of crime. It’s a powerful and timeless film that continues to influence filmmakers and captivate audiences with its unflinching realism and electric energy.
