‘Goodfellas’ With Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Sean Fennessey
Jan 4, 2022
auto_awesome
Listen to Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, Sean Fennessey, and iconic 'Goodfellas' actors Ray Liotta, Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Lorraine Bracco discuss the impact of the movie, valuable life lessons, Martin Scorsese's career, memorable scenes, casting choices, the Lufthansa Heist, mob movies, and more.
Goodfellas is considered the pinnacle of Martin Scorsese's filmmaking career, showcasing his expert direction and compelling storytelling.
Joe Pesci's portrayal of Tommy DeVito is one of his most memorable performances, adding depth and complexity to the film.
Goodfellas introduced innovative techniques like quick editing and voiceover narration, setting the bar for crime films and influencing future works in the genre.
Despite receiving critical acclaim and winning Best Supporting Actor, Goodfellas was initially overlooked at major award shows but has now earned widespread appreciation and is considered a classic.
Goodfellas, with its quotable dialogue, memorable scenes, and iconic characters, has made a lasting impact on cinema and popular culture.
Deep dives
Goodfellas is considered Martin Scorsese's best movie
Goodfellas is often regarded as the pinnacle of Martin Scorsese's filmmaking career. It is seen as the culmination of everything he had been leading up to and a perfect synthesis of his earlier work. The film is praised for its expert direction, character development, and compelling storytelling.
The performances of Joe Pesci and Ray Liotta stand out
Joe Pesci's portrayal of the volatile and unpredictable Tommy DeVito is widely recognized as one of the most memorable in his career. Meanwhile, Ray Liotta's performance as Henry Hill is praised for its relatability and ability to effectively carry the narrative. Their performances add depth and complexity to the film.
Goodfellas has had a lasting impact on filmmaking
Goodfellas is often cited as one of the most influential movies of the last few decades. It introduced innovative techniques such as quick editing, voiceover narration, and the use of popular music to enhance the storytelling. It set the bar for crime films and paved the way for future works in the genre.
The reception and awards recognition for Goodfellas
While Goodfellas was critically acclaimed upon release and garnered several awards nominations, including six Academy Award nominations, it did not receive as much recognition as it deserved. Joe Pesci won the Best Supporting Actor Oscar, but the film was overlooked in other major categories. However, over time, the film has earned widespread appreciation and is now regarded as a classic.
The key scenes and moments of 'Goodfellas'
The summary will highlight the following key scenes: Back to Basics: Analyzing the Movie's Structure, The Montage and the Use of Music, Intimate Family Moments, The Darker Side of the Mafia Lifestyle, The Infamous 'Funny How' Scene, The Brutality and Violence, The Intricate Storytelling and Narration, The Memorable Supporting Characters, The Cinematic Techniques and Visual Style.
Scorsese's iconic direction and career trajectory
Martin Scorsese's direction in Goodfellas cemented his status as one of the greatest and most influential filmmakers of all time. The film reset the trajectory of his career, propelling him to new heights and paving the way for future masterpieces. Scorsese's energy, vitality, and passion for filmmaking shine through in every frame, making Goodfellas an unforgettable cinematic experience.
The unforgettable performances of the main cast
The performances of the main cast, including Ray Liotta, Joe Pesci, and Robert De Niro, were nothing short of phenomenal. Liotta captures the complex and sometimes manic nature of Henry Hill with remarkable intensity. Pesci delivers a terrifying and unforgettable performance as the volatile and unpredictable Tommy DeVito. De Niro brings his trademark gravitas and presence to the role of Jimmy Conway, exuding both charm and menace. Together, these performances elevate Goodfellas to another level.
The gripping and immersive storytelling
Goodfellas masterfully weaves together the stories of loyalty, betrayal, and the rise and fall of Henry Hill. The film's narrative is propelled by its fast pace, non-linear structure, and the use of voiceover narration. Scorsese's direction artfully captures the violence, glamour, and camaraderie of the mob, immersing the audience in the dark and seductive world of organized crime.
The lasting impact and cultural significance
Goodfellas has left an indelible mark on cinema and popular culture. Its quotable dialogue, memorable scenes, and iconic characters have become part of the cultural lexicon. The film's influence can be seen in countless crime films and TV shows that followed, solidifying its place in cinematic history.
As far back as The Ringer’s Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Sean Fennessey can remember, they always wanted to be a gangster. We take a seat right up front at the Copacabana to revisit Martin Scorsese’s 1990 classic ‘Goodfellas’ starring Ray Liotta, Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Lorraine Bracco.
Hosts: Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Sean Fennessey
