Goodfellas - Often imitated, never bettered

Goodfellas is often featured in the `Top 10' greatest films ever. And, it certainly doesn't disappoint. I suppose the only person who wouldn't enjoy it is someone who really hates gangster films (or perhaps is very offended by strong language and/or violence).

However, for all those who can appreciate films which show the darker side of humanity - in this case one that tells the story of (real life) gangster Henry Hill and how he climbs the ranks of the local mob. Yes, there's plenty of foul language along the way, not to mention a fair few violent `hits' on anyone who gets in his way. So, if you're okay watching that, then this is for you.

Not only is the story gripping, but the performances and direction are all up to scratch. Technically, Ray Liotta is the ‘star,’ but he acts more as a storyteller to allow us to get to know the people around him.  You know it's a high quality cast when someone - in this case Joe Pesci - actually manages to upstage Robert DeNiro (the `waiter' and the `clown' scenes to start with). But, Pesci aside, all the cast play their parts brilliantly and you can't really fault any of them.

If you haven't seen Goodfellas, you really need to.   It’s a film that’s so good it’s hard to say anything about it, other than just go watch it!  It’s pretty much the film that every modern gangster film has to pay some tribute to and it’s as gripping today as it was when it was first released.  It’s a true timeless classic and possibly the only other gangster film that will ever be held up as one that comes close to its brilliance will be the ‘Godfather’ films.  Even if you don't like the gangster genre, you may actually enjoy this one. It's certainly one you'll need to know about when people are discussing it down the pub! Now go home and get yer shoeshine box!

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