top of page
  • Letterboxd
  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • Instagram

Goodfellas (1990) Dir: Martin Scorsese

Instagram post:

ree

This 1990 classic, from legendary director Martin Scorsese, is another one of those films people are shocked to hear that I haven't seen. Or at least, that was, until recently.


Based on the book 'Wiseguy', written by Nicholas Pileggi, which is itself based on a true story, this incredibly recognisable crime drama serves as a classic of the genre. At 2 hours and 26 minutes, it is certainly a long watch, especially for 1990.

ree

The story is easy to invest in, although I can't say I was consistently enthralled, mainly due to the film's slow pacing. The actual quality of story is very strong, and thanks to Scorsese's consistently excellent storytelling ability, there is no point where the narrative seems to fall down.


Ray Liotta stars alongside some big names in a role that could have swallowed him up, but instead, he manages to produce a pretty strong performance that would ultimately be considered one of his best.

ree

Robert De Niro is at his best here, with some of his most classic moments coming from this very performance. He is superb in this key supporting role.


Speaking of classic performances, this film features one of the best displays from Joe Pesci, who is arguably even more iconic than De Niro here. He absolutely nails his character's screw-loose personality, and is my personal favourite performer in the whole film.

ree

Paul Sorvino makes for a very believable character, and is very consistently solid in a supporting role that I enjoyed a lot.


Lorraine Bracco is another strong performer, with her emotional outbursts in particular being some of her personal highlights.

ree

I'll also give quick mentions to Frank Vincent and Samuel L. Jackson, who provide decent performances in relatively small roles.


Overall, this is certainly a quintessential piece of gangster cinema, and is Scorsese through and through. Aside from some pacing issues, I found this to be an excellently executed depiction of American gangsters.

ree

 
 
 

Comments


About Me

IMG_20240131_173324_966.jpg

Welcome to FilmIsRidley. I created this website to share film reviews, screenwriting extracts and other film related articles.

I hope you enjoy your time here, feel free to subscribe and keep up with my film journey...

Posts Archive

© 2023 by On My Screen. Proudly created with Wix.com

bottom of page