Goodfellas Movie Essay

Title: Goodfellas

Film Origin

Goodfellas was based off of the non-fiction book Wiseguy, which was released in 1986 by Nicholas Pileggi. Director Martin Scorsese worked extensively with Pileggi when writing the screenplay, as Pileggi is credited for co-writing. Originally named Wise Guy due to the book, Scorsese and Pileggi changed the name to Goodfellas. In addition, Pileggi also worked with the main actors of Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, and Joe Pesci to understand from both the screenplay as well as from the book.

Summary of the film

The film is a biography of Henry Hill, who was born and raised in the mafia, and his story of how he advances through the system. Along the way, Hill finds himself very successful due to the work he was able

Throughout the film, the most obvious commonality is their interest in the mafia industry. But, their common interest also is found in their drive for success. As each character is successful with their business, they share that commonality as well as leaning on each other through the process to make sure each will be successful. Even though things change throughout the film due to their success with the mafia, the trio share that commonality of leaning on each other and protecting each other in the

Even though the film is a biography, there was still a provided closure for the viewers.

Camera Techniques

Goodfellas does an excellent job including different camera techniques. One scene in particular when Karen was pointing a gun at Henry’s face was using both a point-of-view shot as well as breaking the fourth wall. Also, it seems as if they were using a crane to film the scenes due to the accuracy of the shot moving horizontally. This technique is not new, but it makes the shot much more crisp for the viewer.

There was also usage of a long take in the film. In the particular scene, it was Henry and Karen entering the nightclub. But, the entire shot of the scene was a long take, because continued the scene until the subjects sat down. Not only was it a unique camera technique, but it was also an important scene in the movie, as it symbolizes the combination of Henry’s mafia life and love life in one area.

Signatures of the