The Influence of Goodfellas: How Martin Scorsese's Masterpiece Led to Casino

Few names stand out as brilliantly in the world of gangster movies as Martin Scorsese's. His investigation of the criminal underworld has given fans timeless masterpieces, with "Goodfellas" (1990) and "Casino" (1995) being two legendary entries in his gangster repertory. What many people don't understand is that the success of "Goodfellas" was critical in making "Casino" a reality. Let's have a look at the interesting narrative behind this cinematic link.

Goodfellas: A Game-Changing Film

The film "Goodfellas," based on Nicholas Pileggi's novel "Wiseguy," provides an engrossing look into the lives of Henry Hill (Ray Liotta), a mob associate navigating the perilous seas of organized crime. Hill's narrative is a cinematic gem, from his lowly beginnings doing errands for Paul Cicero (Paul Sorvino) in Brooklyn to his ultimate involvement with the Lucchese criminal family. It became a critical darling under Martin Scorsese's direction, winning multiple award nominations and cementing its status as one of the finest films ever produced.

The Legacy of Goodfellas

"Goodfellas" has an unquestionable influence on the gangster genre. Its masterful storytelling, razor-sharp editing, and immersive performances not only set a new standard, but also changed Scorsese's own career. It is considered the director's magnum opus, and its effect continues to echo across the film industry.

The Beginnings of "Casino"

"Casino" emerged as the next chapter in Scorsese's investigation of organized crime, but it couldn't have happened without the popularity of "Goodfellas." The film is based on Nicholas Pileggi's book "Casino: Love and Honor in Las Vegas," which follows the adventures of mobsters Frank "Lefty" Rosenthal and Tony Spilotro at mafia-controlled casinos in Las Vegas throughout the 1970s and 1980s.

Pileggi's Vision and Scorsese's Direction

While "Goodfellas" was nearing completion, Nicholas Pileggi began researching and writing "Casino." A 1980 newspaper story about a marital quarrel between Lefty Rosenthal and his wife, Geri McGee, sparked his novel. Pileggi was inspired by this occurrence to investigate the mob's entry into the glitzy world of Las Vegas.

Scorsese's Direction and Pileggi's Vision

While "Goodfellas" was nearing completion, Nicholas Pileggi began researching and writing "Casino." A 1980 newspaper story about a marital quarrel between Lefty Rosenthal and his wife, Geri McGee, sparked his novel. Pileggi was inspired by this occurrence to investigate the mob's entry into the glitzy world of Las Vegas.

The Premiere of "Casino"

In an audacious move, Nicholas Pileggi's book was released just a month before "Casino" hit theaters. This unconventional strategy had no effect on the audience. Instead, it stoked anticipation for the film, creating a buzz that would solidify "Casino" as a critical and commercial triumph.

Casino: A Deserving Successor

"Casino" has the distinct narrative style of "Goodfellas," and both films profit from Pileggi and Scorsese's joint writing abilities. A common feature is the employment of voiceover narration to supplement the tale. While "Casino" owes much to the popularity of "Goodfellas," it succeeds on its own as a compelling gangster epic.

Conclusion

"Goodfellas" and "Casino" rank as twin cornerstones of gangster film in the annals of cinematic history. "Goodfellas" paved the way, enhancing Martin Scorsese's prominence and reinventing the genre, allowing "Casino" to become a reality. These films are more than just criminal stories; they are works of aesthetic genius and storytelling expertise. While "Goodfellas" is often regarded as Scorsese's magnum masterpiece, "Casino" stands as a testament to the ongoing legacy of a remarkable collaboration between Pileggi and Scorsese.