Renowned filmmaker Guillermo del Toro has openly expressed his admiration for Martin Scorsese‘s 1990s classic gangster film Goodfellas, calling it “perfect in every aspect.” Known for his distinctive style in horror and fantasy, del Toro’s endorsement brings fresh attention to the gangster genre and suggests potential new directions for his career. His recognition of this film highlights the lasting impact of the movie among cinema enthusiasts and experts alike.
A Closer Look at Del Toro’s Praise for Martin Scorsese’s Iconic Film
As one of the most acclaimed directors of his generation, del Toro shared his top favorite films in the 2012 Sight and Sound poll, placing Scorsese’s Goodfellas in his top ten. Del Toro emphasized the film’s unmatched influence and ability to remain engaging upon repeated viewings. He stated,
“One of the most influential films of the last two decades. A movie that can be rewatched endlessly and remain fresh and surprising. Perfect in every aspect, behind and in front of the camera.” —Guillermo del Toro, Filmmaker
Goodfellas tells the real-life story of Henry Hill, offering audiences a gripping, often unsettling glimpse into the seductive yet violent world of mobsters. With masterful storytelling, Scorsese captures the rise and fall within organized crime, balancing thrilling pacing and compelling performances from stars like Ray Liotta, Robert De Niro, and Joe Pesci.
The film’s influence is evident in numerous other movies shaped by its dynamic narrative style and storytelling techniques. Examples include Blow, Boogie Nights, and I, Tonya, while Scorsese himself revisited similar themes in later projects such as Casino and The Wolf of Wall Street. Del Toro’s praise situates Goodfellas as a definitive work in the cinematic portrayal of crime, violence, and complex character studies.
The Potential for Guillermo del Toro to Venture into the Gangster Genre
Del Toro’s deep appreciation for Goodfellas opens the intriguing possibility of him exploring the gangster genre himself. Although he is best known for his visionary horror and fantasy films, del Toro has demonstrated remarkable versatility within those areas, blending fairy tale elements, supernatural themes, and human emotion with one another.
His 2021 film Nightmare Alley hinted at his ability to master darker, morally complex narratives that share much with gangster cinema. With its period setting and noir atmosphere, Nightmare Alley navigated themes of deceit, ambition, and corruption—territory well-trodden by gangster films but seen through del Toro’s unique lens.
Del Toro seems particularly suited to highlighting the beauty amidst darkness, which could bring fresh insight into the violent worlds typically explored in gangster stories. Such an approach would differentiate his work from films like Goodfellas, offering audiences a new perspective on crime dramas that blend artistry with grit. Should he take on such a project, it would mark a compelling evolution in his filmmaking career.
Robert De Niro’s Ongoing Legacy in Gangster Cinema
Central to the gangster film tradition is actor Robert De Niro, who has delivered many iconic performances in the genre. De Niro’s roles have fluctuated in success, but his contributions remain integral to the storytelling style that shaped films like Goodfellas. As the cast member playing James Conway in that film, his presence reinforces the movie’s lasting impact on audiences and filmmakers alike.
De Niro continues to participate in gangster narratives, such as his involvement in The Alto Knights. His enduring presence in these films serves as a bridge connecting the past to potential future works, including those that a director like Guillermo del Toro might pursue.
What This Could Mean for the Future of Del Toro’s Career
As Guillermo del Toro approaches new projects like his upcoming adaptation of Frankenstein, his expressed admiration for Goodfellas invites speculation about how he might reimagine the gangster genre. His optimistic and passionate storytelling style promises a fresh take on crime dramas, potentially influencing how dark and complex characters are portrayed on screen.
Del Toro’s gangster movie, should it come to fruition, would likely offer a unique fusion of intense human drama and artistic beauty, standing apart from traditional narratives. This anticipated shift could both excite his existing fans and attract new audiences, expanding the boundaries of the genre.
