Scorsese's Masterpiece...The greatest gangster film by the greatest director

Rating: 10/10 (5 February 2010)

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I had heard so may positive things about Goodfellas and had read so many reviews, so when i sat down a couple of nights ago, I was expecting nothing short of a masterful depiction of gangster life, what i watched didn't not fall short of my high expectations. The film centres on Henry Hill, portrayed by Ray Liotta, who gradually moves up the ranks in the organised crime scene in New York and eventually becomes on the most respected, feared and loved gangsters in the city. Scorsese is flawless in evoking the consequences of becoming embroiled in the deeply exciting yet wholly damaging dynamics of gangster life. The film is wonderfully directed by Scorsese in this regard and also in the depths of characterisation that are apparent in the film. Examples of this include the friendliness yet relentless ruthlessness shown by Jimmy Conway (played by a wonderfully convincing Robert De Niro) Joe Pesci, perhaps, steals the show with his chilling yet hugely amusing portrayal of Tommy DeVito with whom he transcends a brilliant mix of violence and humour. is efforts with this character were deservedly recognised with an Academy Award for Acot in a supporting role. In my opinion, the films most engaging and powerful element is the spiral out of control that Henry Hill experiences when he indulges in drug use and infidelities. The film also seems to flow effortlessly from scene to scene which makes the 146 minute running time seem a lot shorter.
10/10. A great effort from Scorsese, his directing was awe-inspired, and Liotta, De Niro and Pesci combined produce a fantastic ensemble of gangster characters.