Goodfellas Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of the Blu-ray release of "Goodfellas" exhibits a significant yet flawed improvement over its standard DVD counterparts. The 1080p/VC-1 encode delivers a more stable and detailed image, particularly in well-lit scenes, offering better visibility of fine objects such as the intricate designs of wallpaper and furniture in various interiors. Close-up shots are sharper, revealing the minute details in the actors' faces and the texture of their clothing. Colors are a standout feature, with primary hues appearing vibrant and secondary colors being well rendered. However, the contrast and brightness levels are merely adequate, with occasional instances of blooming whites and inconsistently deep blacks.

Unfortunately, this release is marred by several technical shortcomings that detract from the overall viewing experience. Shadow detail varies, often appearing flat or cloudy in dimly lit scenes, while occasional telecine wobble adds to the inconsistencies. Anomaly like a persistent black line around the 76-minute mark remains unresolved, despite being present in previous versions. Compression artifacts, smearing textures, and intermittent edge halos further compromise the visual fidelity. Some sequences showcase waxy faces and errant print specks, undermining the film's authentic atmosphere.

While this Blu-ray version is a marked improvement over earlier DVD releases, it fails to live up to modern high definition standards. Warner's decision to repackage an unchanged transfer from 2007's Blu-ray release is baffling given the advancements in restoration technology. Although it may suffice for casual viewers, videophiles will undoubtedly lament the missed opportunity for a truly remastered presentation that this cinematic classic undoubtedly deserves.

The 20th Anniversary Edition of "Goodfellas" on Blu-ray maintains the same Dolby Digital 5.1 surround track as previous releases, which may disappoint audiophiles yearning for a lossless audio experience. Despite this, the mix manages to deliver clean and well-prioritized dialogue, though with occasional muddiness in quieter moments. The LFE channel provides a substantive low-frequency punch, albeit with some bluntness. Surround speakers are moderately active, contributing to an adequate spatial experience, and the directionality and separation are commendable for a catalog title. However, it lacks the gusto expected given modern advancements in Blu-ray audio presentations.

Conspicuously, the track's lossy nature is more pronounced in an era where high-resolution audio has become standard for most Blu-ray releases. The absence of a significant audio upgrade for such a pivotal re-release is disheartening. Nonetheless, the musical score and period songs do add a considerable depth to the soundstage, making sporadic but effective use of surround speakers. Although rear activity and discrete effects are limited, the mix offers a strong dynamic range and enjoyable imaging from the front channels. Dialogue is mostly clear but can be challenging during subtler moments. Despite these shortcomings, the track's overall performance is acceptable, falling short of exceptional yet serviceable and superior to DVD quality.

Ultimately, while the audio presentation on the Goodfellas 20th Anniversary Edition is competent and retains its historical charm, it remains a missed opportunity for delivering an enhanced auditory experience that this cinematic gem richly deserves. Fans should be cautious if already owning the 2007 Blu-ray release, as the upgrade may not be substantial enough to justify another purchase.

The Blu-ray edition of "Goodfellas" offers a comprehensive collection of extras that dive deep into the film's production, influence, and real-life connections. With two exceptional audio commentary tracks, one from the cast and crew and the other consisting of Henry Hill and FBI agent Edward McDonald, viewers get a rich behind-the-scenes perspective as well as insightful comparisons between the film and true events. Other notable features include the "Getting Made" featurette, which provides a visual counterpart to the commentaries, and "Made Men: The Goodfellas Legacy," which includes reflections from renowned filmmakers about the film's impact. Complete with a documentary on gangster films and an engaging storyboard comparison, this package offers a robust and engaging exploration of one of Martin Scorsese's finest works.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentaries tracks: Cast/Crew and Cop/Crook: In-depth analyses and real-life parallels.
• Getting Made: Interviews chronicling the making of "Goodfellas."
• Made Men: The Goodfellas Legacy: Filmmakers discuss the influence of "Goodfellas."
• Paper is Cheaper than Film: Sketch to screen comparisons.
• The Workaday Gangster: Insights into wiseguy life.
• Theatrical Trailer: The original preview of the film.
• Public Enemies: The Golden Age of Gangster Film: Documentary on gangster films hosted by Alec Baldwin.

Comes packaged in a 34-page book with photos, talent files, production background, and more.

"Goodfellas," adapted from Nicholas Pileggi's true-life account "Wiseguy," is an unrelenting portrayal of the criminal underworld, directed with masterful precision by Martin Scorsese. This film, often cited as one of the greatest films of all time, dives deep into the life of Henry Hill (Ray Liotta), an ambitious Brooklyn kid who gets seduced by the glamor and brutality of organized crime. The film is a visceral experience, marked by electrifying performances from its cast, including Robert De Niro, Lorraine Bracco, Paul Sorvino, and Joe Pesci. Pesci's performance, in particular, stands out, earning him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Scorsese's unwavering direction and impeccable grasp of character development and storytelling make "Goodfellas" an intense and captivating biopic.

The film chronicles the rise and inevitable fall of Hill's career in the 1960s and 70s New York crime scene. Through Hill's eyes, we see his transformation from a starry-eyed youth to a paranoid, drug-addled mobster on the brink of collapse. Scorsese and Pileggi do not romanticize Hill's life; instead, they offer a raw depiction of the allure and destructiveness inherent in the mob world. From its gritty portrayal of violence and frenetic pacing to its intricate cinematography and haunting realism, "Goodfellas" is more than just another mob movie—it's a brutal examination of a corrupted American Dream.

The authenticity of "Goodfellas" is enhanced through stellar performances and Scorsese's ability to create living, breathing characters rather than mere caricatures. The narrative does not shy away from showing the dark, unforgiving nature of the lifestyle, emphasizing themes of loyalty, betrayal, and moral decay. Scorsese expertly straddles the line between allure and condemnation, making the viewer both intrigued and repelled by Hill's world. Ultimately, "Goodfellas" stands as a harrowing yet mesmerizing piece of cinema, offering an unfiltered look into an exceedingly dishonest lifestyle. Its impact is a testament to Scorsese's prowess as a director and storyteller.

Martin Scorsese's "Goodfellas" is an undisputed landmark in cinema, revered for its raw, unfiltered portrayal of the gangster lifestyle based on the real-life experiences of Henry Hill. This 20th Anniversary Edition Blu-ray maintains the film's legacy with a faithful A/V presentation, repackaged in a Two-Disc DigiBook. While this edition includes a bonus DVD with a feature-length documentary on gangster cinema and a small collection of classic animated shorts, it unfortunately lacks significant improvements over the 2007 Blu-ray release. The video transfer remains unchanged, and the audio continues to be the same Dolby Digital track, leaving existing owners of the previous edition with little incentive to repurchase.

The enduring brilliance of "Goodfellas" lies in its meticulous direction, compelling narrative, and strong performances, making it a must-have for any cinephile. Unfortunately, Warner Home Video's latest offering does not introduce any novel features or enhancements that would warrant an upgrade for those who already own the earlier Blu-ray version. The supplementary content is largely recycled, save for the new documentary and cartoons, which might not sufficiently justify a new purchase.

In conclusion, while the 20th Anniversary Edition of "Goodfellas" provides an attractive packaging and some additional content, it falls short of delivering any substantial improvements over its predecessor. For newcomers to this seminal work, it remains a highly recommended purchase. However, existing owners of the 2007 release may find this edition a rather superficial "double-dip." Whether as an inaugural buy or a continued celebration of its cinematic excellence, "Goodfellas" remains an essential addition to any film collection.