Telling it like it was in the mafia over 30 years

Rating: 10/10 (15 April 1999)

Like most of Martin Scorsese's films, "Goodfellas" is an example of superior film-making. The fact that this film is on the American Film Institute's top 100 films of all time is no surprise to me. It's low ranking of 94 is a bit disturbing. It sits as close to the bottom as it should to the top of that list. This film gives you a hard, long, candid look of the life of a gangster spanning three decades, without pulling any punches.
It is violent to be sure, but not gratuitous, unnecessary violence. How can you tell a convincing tale of life in the mob without getting violent? The narration by Ray Liotta and the style in which the film is presented gives it a very realistic feel that is not easily achieved on the fantastic subject matter. Based on the novel by Nicholas Pileggi, this is a harrowing true story, and despite its incredible turns, we know in our hearts it's all too real. Many scenes from this film are burned into my mind, and that can be attributed partially to the story, but mostly to the convincing performances by all involved.
Joe Pesci received an Oscar for best supporting actor, but I feel Martin was overlooked unjustly. I'm sure he doesn't make films for the sake of awards, that appears to be the case anyway, but I'm sure the recognition wouldn't have embarrassed him either, and it's a shame. I respect the man and his work, and I feel that this film is his greatest so far.