My favorite film

Rating: 10/10 (7 November 2009)

I have no idea what that says about me, but, what the hell.
I saw this back in 1990 and probably 15 more times since and I still love it. I don't think I fast-forward through any scene. I love everything about it. Nothing seems far-fetched or implausible or stupid. The dialogue seems real as well as these peoples' unfathomable culture. To this day, I find myself quoting and thinking about this movie.
Here is a story about a kid who grows up NYC thinking that being a bad guy ain't that bad. Reminds me of someone who wants to be a rock star except being a musician is legal. Henry Hill wanted money, women, respect, and didn't want to work too hard. It just so happens he ran around with some guys who took themselves a bit too seriously. Ultimately, the party (and the movie) had to stop and this guy's demise is just as entertaining as his rise to the "top".
If you love hearing that NYC Italian dialect and seeing what people thought was fashionable back then you'll enjoy this movie. Also, the dichotomy of these crook's lifestyle and their purported faith & ethical code is portrayed enjoyably too.
Thanks to the cast and crew. My new gangster film on heavy rotation is The Departed and we will see if that one too withstands the test of time.