Goodfellas

Goodfellas

BiographyCrimeDrama
8.7 Rating
2h 25m Duration
1990 Release
USA USA Country
MentorOrganized crimeViolenceMurderMafiaGangsterPsychopathRise and fallMobsterDrug trafficCosa nostraItalian mafia
Official Trailer

Goodfellas

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Movie Team / Crew Detail

Goodfellas - Movie Crew Info

  • Director: Martin Scorsese
  • Producer: Irwin Winkler, Robert Chartoff
  • Screenplay: Nicholas Pileggi, Martin Scorsese
  • Based on: "Wiseguy" by Nicholas Pileggi
  • Cinematographer: Michael Ballhaus
  • Editor: Thelma Schoonmaker
  • Music Composer: Robbie Robertson
  • Production Designer: Bob Shaw
  • Costume Designer: Richard Bruno
  • Casting Director: Juliet Taylor

Movie Summary

Goodfellas is a gripping crime drama that follows the rise and fall of Henry Hill, a young man who grows up idolizing the mob lifestyle in New York City. From a young age, Henry is fascinated by the power and respect that come with being part of the mafia. He quickly becomes involved with local gangsters, learning the ropes and earning his place among them. Alongside his friends Jimmy Conway and Tommy DeVito, Henry dives headfirst into a world of crime that includes robbery, extortion, and drug dealing.

As Henry climbs the ranks, the film shows both the glamorous and dangerous sides of the mob life. There are lavish parties, expensive suits, and a sense of loyalty and brotherhood that come with being part of the family. But beneath the surface, violence and betrayal lurk everywhere. Tommy’s unpredictable and ruthless nature creates tension, and their criminal activities bring constant risk from law enforcement and rival gangs. The story captures the excitement and adrenaline of their illegal ventures, but also the fear and paranoia that follow.

Henry’s personal life is intertwined with his criminal world. He marries Karen, who initially is unaware of the full extent of Henry’s dangerous lifestyle. As she becomes more involved, the strain of living a double life takes its toll on their marriage and family. The movie also explores how the mob’s influence affects the people around them, showing the consequences of their actions on loved ones and the community.

The tension escalates as Henry, Jimmy, and Tommy face increasing pressure from the law. Their loyalty is tested, and cracks start to appear within the group. The film does not shy away from the brutal realities of mob life—the sudden violence, the arrests, and the constant fear of betrayal. Eventually, Henry's world begins to unravel as law enforcement closes in and the consequences of his choices catch up with him.

Goodfellas is not just a story about crime; it’s a powerful look at ambition, friendship, and the price of living outside the law. The movie’s fast-paced storytelling, memorable characters, and authentic portrayal of the mafia world keep viewers captivated from start to finish. It shows how a life that once seemed thrilling and glamorous can quickly turn dark and dangerous, leaving a lasting impact on everyone involved.

What This Movie Teaches Us

Goodfellas teaches us the seductive allure and devastating consequences of a life in crime. It reveals how power, loyalty, and ambition can blind individuals to the destruction they cause. Through Henry Hill’s rise and fall, the film emotionally portrays the illusion of control amidst chaos. Ultimately, it warns that the glamorous façade of the mob hides a world of betrayal, fear, and loss — reminding us that choices shape destinies, often with irreversible pain.

Awards & Nominations

Awards

  • Academy Awards (1991)
    Best Supporting Actor – Joe Pesci

  • BAFTA Awards (1991)
    Best Director – Martin Scorsese

  • Golden Globe Awards (1991)
    Best Supporting Actor – Joe Pesci

  • Screen Actors Guild Awards (1992)
    Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role – Joe Pesci

These accolades highlight the film’s critical acclaim, particularly recognizing Joe Pesci’s outstanding supporting role and Martin Scorsese’s direction.

Iconic Scenes

  1. The Copacabana entrance: Henry Hill and Karen walk through the bustling nightclub’s back entrance, seamlessly blending with staff, as Henry narrates their effortless glide into the glamorous underworld.

  2. The “Funny how?” scene: Tommy confronts Henry at a diner, his smirk shifting to menace as he retells a joke, turning tension into chilling unpredictability.

  3. The Lufthansa heist aftermath: The crew’s paranoia escalates, shadows lengthen, and silent glances hint at betrayal and impending doom.

  4. The final FBI arrest: Henry’s frantic escape contrasts with his voiceover’s cold acceptance, marking his fall from power.

Controversies

"Goodfellas" (1990), directed by Martin Scorsese, faced criticism for its graphic violence, strong language, and depiction of organized crime life, which some viewed as glamorizing the Mafia. The film sparked debates on whether it glorified criminal behavior or realistically portrayed mob life. Certain Italian-American groups expressed concern about reinforcing negative stereotypes. Additionally, "Goodfellas" encountered censorship challenges, with some scenes edited or muted for television broadcasts due to explicit content. Despite these controversies, the film is widely acclaimed for its storytelling and authenticity, often cited as one of the greatest crime films ever made.

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