Martin Scorsese (who will be referred to as "Martin" because... come on, that name) hit gold. Pure cinema gold with this film. He does that with most of his movies, but this one is quite fantastic. I'm pretty sure he got things rolling for The Sopranos producers while making this (which is a series I highly recommend.)
It all follows Ray Liotta's character, Henry Hill, and how he became a gangster at the age of 13. He doesn't become a boss or anything higher up though because apparently only full blood Italians are allowed to, and he is half Irish. There's not too much plot besides that but it goes into detail all the heists they pulled off and how he made his money. Robert De Niro was fantastic and Joe Pesci supplied numerous memorable lines that have been spoofed for as long as I can remember (You think I'm funny? Do I amuse you?).
I can not begin to describe how exciting it was to see all the young Sopranos actors in this movie though! Not only that, I recently watched Repo! The Genetic Opera and saw Paul Sorvino go from greedy organ CEO to father figure mobster and I loved every second. Samuel L. Jackson also plays a small role. Come on, SAMUEL L. JACKSON playing a minor role has to tell you just how many big names are in this film.
It uses a narrative throughout the movie, which I love because the narrator can let you in on things that normal dialogue would do no justice and lets the imagery do most of the talking.
Now, don't get me wrong, they were all vicious mobsters, but they were so good and pretty badass that you couldn't help but root for them and hope nothing bad happens. The soundtrack follows a timeline so that wherever the plot is taking place (or, whenever) the music matches it. This is a pretty well known technique, but it really strengthens the film's intent and makes sure that you are pulled into the movie. THAT is what makes a great movie. If you are sitting on the couch, watching a movie, and you notice your television is crooked, or check your cell phone from time to time or space out and halfway listen... the movie is not doing its job. You can not be aware that you are currently watching a movie in your living room, you have to really feel the movie and be really involved with what your watching.
It keeps you entertained.
I recommend Goodfellas.
Next Movie: Sophie's Choice (1982)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sophie%27s_Choice_(film)
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