Why Goodfellas Redefines the Gangster Genre
Picture thia young boy, wide-eyed and full of ambition, watches as gangsters glide through life, seemingly without a care in the world. “As far back as I can remember, I always wanted to be a gangster,” opens Goodfellas, inviting us into the chaotic, thrilling life of Henry Hill. This cinematic gem, directed by Martin Scorsese and released in 1990, has cemented itself as one of the most unforgettable films in cinema history, challenging the very notion of what makes a great gangster film.
Upon discussing the greatest gangster films, many might instantly mention The Godfather or The Godfather Part II. These masterpieces, steered by Francis Ford Coppola and featuring legendary actors like Marlon Brando and Al Pacino, have long held the crown. Yet, Goodfellas emerges as a formidable contender, marked by its energy and raw storytelling.
Star-studded with talents including Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, Ray Liotta, and Lorraine Bracco, the film paints a vivid portrait of organized crime in New York during the late ’70s and ’80s. It doesn’t shy away from the brutal realities of gang life, nor does it try to glorify it. The lively performances and fast-paced editing do not just entertain; they immerse viewers in Hill’s world.
Ray Liotta, Robert De Niro, Paul Sorvino, and Joe Pesci starred in Goodfellas (ImagGetty)
The harrowing journey of the real Henry Hill, whose life inspired the film, adds another layer of depth. From a young boy in Brooklyn to becoming a prominent mob figure and eventually a government informant, his life reflects the intoxicating yet perilous path of crime. Hill’s transition into the Witness Protection Program after spilling the beans to the FBI, only to be expelled for continuing his illicit activities, serves as a stark reminder of the consequences that come with such a lifestyle.
The Lasting Impact of Goodfellas
Despite not winning the Oscar for Best Picture, which went to Dances With Wolves, Scorsese’s film has stood the test of time, hailed as a cinematic triumph over three decades after its release. Critics have praised it for its unmatched depiction of mob life, with Ben Sherlock from Screen Rant describing it as “both a wildly entertaining gangster movie and a sobering cautionary tale.” New York magazine’s David Denby has even called it “the greatest film ever made about the sensual and monetary lure of crime.”
Comparing it to The Godfather, Goodfellas breaks ground with its record-breaking use of expletives—over 300 times—infusing humor into a genre often defined by solemnity. In a thought-provoking article celebrating its 30th anniversary, Ed Power for The Independent argued that this blend of comedy and high stakes is precisely why it outshines its predecessors. He notes the film’s vibrant and zany portrayal of gangster life, making it an experience unlike any other.
Joe Pesci won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Goodfellas (ImagGetty)
The film’s portrayal of life within the mob is both chill-inducing and hilarious, often capturing spontaneous moments that veer into dark humor. Scorsese’s ingenious direction, combined with a pulsating score—from classic rock to suspenseful tones—fuels the film’s electric atmosphere. Even amidst scenes of violence, the unexpected humor makes for a compelling narrative that lingers long after the final credits roll.
For those eager to revisit this iconic film, Goodfellas is available for streaming on platforms like Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, and Google Play.