By Ketsuda Phoutinane

Copyright walesonline

In the ranks of cinematic history, Goodfellas is largely considered one of the best gangster films. Touted as Martin Scorsese’ best gangster flick, it’s often hailed as superior to The Godfather and sometimes even as the greatest ever movie. Goodfellas, which celebrated its 35th anniversary on September 21, continues to captivate audiences who say they’re hooked on repeat viewings. With its mix of brutality, chaos and humour, the movie’s dynamic pace makes its 2.5 hour runtime whizz past. The movie is based on the rise-and-fall story of Mafia associate Henry Hill, portrayed by then-emerging actor Ray Liotta. As its iconic opening line goes, “As far back as I can remember, I always wanted to be a gangster.” He’s taken under the wing of grizzled mobster Jimmy Conway (Robert De Niro) and the movie follows Henry as he scales the New York mob and indulges in the extravagant lifestyle of a gangster in 1960s and 70s New York. As is often the case, Henry’s world eventually crumbles. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film has received a stellar 94% rating from critics and an even higher 97% audience rating. The critical consensus on the site reads: “Hard-hitting and stylish, GoodFellas is a gangster classic – and arguably the high point of Martin Scorsese’s career.” Joe Pesci’s standout performance as an unhinged gangster won him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Fans and critics alike often point to its sheer entertainment value. The film pulses with dynamic energy, making it a joy to watch. The performances of the ensemble cast and the movie’s sharp editing have garnered continuous acclaim. In discussing its edge over other a classic like The Godfather, The Independent observed: “It is also uproarious to watch and often hilarious. That is arguably why it eclipses The Godfather Parts One and Two and Sergio Leone’s Once Upon a Time in America. “These are important, austere gangster epics, caught up in their own tragic grandeur. Goodfellas is, by contrast, a hoot, a caper, a romp. Many of its best scenes are essentially comic.” Reflecting on the film’s charm in 1990, New York Magazine described: “Goodfellas is a true hybrid, a movie packed with factual interest of a documentary but also the excitements of pace, humor, and violence that only a great fiction director can provide.” Looking ahead to 2025, Screenrant considered the picture’s longevity: “Martin Scorsese made something special in Goodfellas. It was so brilliant that some fans might consider it better than The Godfather. While that remains debatable, there is no discounting its standing in film history as one of the best gangster movies ever made.” Throughout the years, cinema enthusiasts online have come together to debate Goodfellas’ enduring charm. One person on Reddit’s movies forum said: “For whatever reason, I always watch Goodfellas over Christmas and every year I forget how incredible it is. “Ray Liotta is impeccable, De Niro is stunning, and Lorraine Bracco is just spectacular. How spectacular is she? That much. I have no idea how this was so overlooked by all the awards. It’s the best movie ever made.” “I think I’ve seen Goodfellas about 20 times and still enjoy it. It’s also fun to play spot The Sopranos actors,” another admitted. A number of actors from Goodfellas later went on to feature in The Sopranos, including Lorraine Bracco, Michael Imperioli and Tony Sirico. One fan explained: “For me, “Goodfellas” is infinitely rewatchable because of the banter between characters.” A Letterboxd user praised the film’s editing, saying: “Each cut, freeze frame and needle drop, are immaculately selected, placed and timed. This might be the GOAT for editing. Thelma [Schoonmaker] is a complete master of her craft.” Goodfellas can currently be streamed on Amazon Prime.