Martin Scorsese is the reputable professional whose greater part of works is considered to be the best cult movies. In 1990 he has collaborated with Nicholas Pileggi the author of the non-fiction book Wiseguy for the creation of a screenplay to the semi-fictional crime drama.
Actually, Goodfellas was planned to be directed before 'The Last Temptation of Christ'. However, when the funds appeared to be enough to create the Last he has changed the order. As a title Wiseguy have been already used in TV series and for previous 1986 comedy of other director. Thus, Pileggi and Scorsese have changed it to Goodfellas. To make their work more effective, the actors were often consulted by Pileggi. Scorsese has encouraged the actors` ad-libbing play at the rehearsal and then embedded the parts he liked the most to the script.
What happens when dreams come true
The plot of Goodfellas is very realistic and that is why it is so amazing. The simple guy from the poor family has to make an important decision - he can study and then work hard with no perspective and money as his parents or he can choose the full of luxury life of reach guys that are seen by him every day on the streets. Except the peculiarity of this life is to earn money illegally, to be a part of mafia family, that may always lead to unpredictable consequences. And one more - there is no way out. So he chooses the second variant…
The moviemaker has created the excellent picture of mafia world as it is. It`s not a pure action or commercial fake or farfetched Hollywood "dramatic saga", there is no intentional bloodness and no dramatization. Five years later Martin Scorsese filmed Casino movie 1995 with almost the same cast, however it is pale before Goodfellas ` direction.
Brilliant play
The film has a very strong psychological side and owes it to leading actors. The characters of Ray Liotta, Joe Pesci and Robert De Niro are very bright and typical. Pesci is simply wonderful! His character, Tommy DeVito, is absolute dangerous psycho, but also very fascinating and thoughtful about his friends. Liotta has all necessary manners and features to play Henry Hill and his play is perfect. Jimmy Conway is a calm, cool and ruthless gangster. De Niro plays it easily, without overdoing and tension.
Awards
6 nomination of Academy Awards: 'Best Actor in a Supporting Role' (Joe Pesci), 'Best Actress in a Supporting Role' (Lorraine Bracco), Best Picture, Best Director, Best Film Editing, Best Adapted Screenplay.
5 Golden Globes nominations: Best Motion Pictures, Best Director, Best Supporting Actress, Best Supporting Actor, and Best Screenplay.
5 gained awards from British Academy of Film and Television Arts.
Guy Ritchie is one of the most famous progressive moviemakers of today. The casino theme is his strong point!
007 agent is an absolute hero of the past, present and feature. Each episode is just like a pleasant blackjack online bonus!
This talented person is worthy of respect as every Scorsese's motion picture becomes an impressive masterpiece.