Goodfellas

Definition

Goodfellas is a critically acclaimed 1990 film directed by Martin Scorsese that chronicles the life of mob associate Henry Hill and his experiences in organized crime. The film is notable for its innovative use of sound design, particularly how it enhances the storytelling and immerses the audience into the gritty reality of the criminal underworld.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Goodfellas is based on the true story of Henry Hill, adapted from the book 'Wiseguy' by Nicholas Pileggi, showcasing the rise and fall of a mobster's life.
2. The film’s sound design, created by Thelma Schoonmaker, includes clever use of voiceover narration that provides insight into Henry’s thoughts and feelings.
3. The soundtrack features iconic songs from various eras, such as 'Layla' by Derek and the Dominos during a pivotal scene, enhancing the emotional weight of key moments.
4. Goodfellas employs techniques like jump cuts and long tracking shots, which are accompanied by impactful sound editing that builds tension and excitement throughout the film.
5. The film was nominated for six Academy Awards and won for Best Supporting Actor (Joe Pesci), cementing its place as one of the greatest films in cinema history.

Review Questions

• How does the sound design in Goodfellas contribute to the film's narrative structure?
  • The sound design in Goodfellas plays a vital role in enhancing its narrative structure by using elements like voiceover narration to provide context and insight into Henry Hill's character. This technique allows viewers to connect more deeply with his experiences and emotions, while diegetic sounds create a realistic atmosphere that immerses the audience in the world of organized crime. The combination of these sound elements makes the storytelling more dynamic and engaging.
• Analyze how Martin Scorsese's directorial choices in Goodfellas utilize sound to influence audience perception.
  • Martin Scorsese's directorial choices in Goodfellas significantly utilize sound to shape audience perception by integrating music and sound effects that reflect the emotional tone of scenes. For instance, the use of popular songs from different decades not only sets a nostalgic mood but also underscores key moments in Henry Hill's life. Furthermore, Scorsese's emphasis on ambient sounds and dialogue enhances the authenticity of the mob lifestyle, allowing viewers to feel both captivated and repulsed by its allure.
• Evaluate the impact of Goodfellas on modern sound design practices in film.
  • Goodfellas has had a lasting impact on modern sound design practices in film by demonstrating how sound can be used not just as an accompaniment but as an integral part of storytelling. The film's innovative use of voiceovers, combined with a carefully curated soundtrack and effective sound effects, has inspired filmmakers to explore more creative approaches to audio. This emphasis on sound as a narrative device encourages a more immersive experience for audiences, influencing countless films that followed to prioritize thoughtful sound design as essential to their storytelling.

Related terms

Martin Scorsese:

An influential American film director known for his distinct style and contribution to cinema, particularly in the crime genre, with films like Goodfellas and Taxi Driver.

Soundtrack: The collection of music used in a film to enhance its emotional impact, with Goodfellas featuring a diverse range of songs that complement its narrative.

Diegetic Sound:

Sound that originates from within the film's world, heard by both the characters and the audience, which plays a crucial role in establishing the film's atmosphere.