In 1991, Kevin Costner’s directorial debut, Dances With Wolves, won the Best Picture Oscar, edging out Martin Scorsese’s acclaimed mob drama, Goodfellas. This unexpected decision remains one of the most debated moments in Academy history, reflecting not only the films themselves but the tastes and preferences of Oscar voters at the time. The story of a Union soldier embracing the Lakota Sioux culture touched on themes of unity and redemption, which resonated with the Oscars’ preference for emotionally powerful and historically grounded narratives.
Dances With Wolves received 12 nominations and secured seven wins, including Best Director for Costner, who also starred in the film. Its portrayal of the American West, combined with a heartfelt tale of hope and connection, aligned with the Academy’s inclination towards grand, inspirational cinema. In contrast, Goodfellas, a raw and unfiltered depiction of organized crime with sharp, profanity-heavy dialogue, was seen as too provocative and edgy for many Academy voters, especially the older demographic.
Though critics and cinephiles admired Scorsese’s film, the Academy awarded it only a single Oscar, for Joe Pesci’s Best Supporting Actor. The contrast between the two films highlights the divide between critical acclaim and the Academy’s traditional criteria for Oscar success, revealing why Dances With Wolves was favored despite Goodfellas’ lasting influence.
The Enduring Influence of Goodfellas and Guillermo del Toro’s Admiration
Years after the Oscar ceremony, Goodfellas has secured its place as a landmark film in cinema history. Its impact on filmmakers and audiences continues to endure, with prominent directors like Guillermo del Toro expressing profound respect for the movie’s artistry. Del Toro described Goodfellas as a revolutionary film that profoundly altered modern storytelling. In his words, Martin Scorsese’s work
“gave birth to the 21st century in one of the most influential films of the last two decades.”
—Guillermo del Toro, filmmaker
From its innovative non-linear narrative to its intense immersion into mob life, Goodfellas redefined the gangster genre. Its storytelling captured the chaotic mindset of the protagonist, Henry, and created a visceral experience of the criminal world unlike anything seen before. Scorsese’s direction not only captivated audiences but also became essential study material for film students, inspiring generations of filmmakers. Despite its modest Oscar win, the film’s legacy as a cinematic masterpiece remains unquestioned.
The Challenges of Awarding a Provocative Masterpiece Over a Poignant Epic
The Academy’s preference in 1991 for Dances With Wolves over Goodfellas highlights the complex dynamics behind Oscar voting. While Goodfellas was groundbreaking in form and content, its graphic violence and unapologetic language likely alienated some voters. On the other hand, Costner’s film offered a more traditional and emotionally accessible narrative, featuring themes that aligned well with the Academy’s historical sensibilities.
Costner’s dual role as director and star added a compelling underdog narrative that Academy voters often appreciate, as it reflected both creative control and personal investment. The sentiments of reconciliation and hope embedded in the Western epic appealed broadly in the context of American history, contrasting sharply with the gritty and volatile portrayal of mob life in Goodfellas.
This choice by the Academy perhaps illustrates a tension between artistic innovation and industry conventions, which remains a relevant conversation about the Oscars and their recognition of different film genres and styles.
Looking Back on an Oscar Showdown That Shaped Film Legacy
The contest between Dances With Wolves and Goodfellas remains a pivotal moment in Oscar history, emphasizing how awards reflect cultural and industry values beyond artistic quality alone. While Kevin Costner’s debut captured the Academy’s favor with its sweeping narrative and hopeful themes, Martin Scorsese’s film continued to influence the art of filmmaking profoundly.
Both movies are available for viewing today, with Goodfellas streaming on Peacock Premium and Dances With Wolves accessible on Pluto TV in the U.S., allowing new audiences to experience these iconic works and form their own opinions on the Oscar outcome. The enduring discussion around these films ensures their significance will be remembered as much for their cinematic excellence as for their historic Oscar rivalry.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How much money did Kevin Costner get per episode of Yellowstone?
A. Kevin Costner makes an incredible salary of $1.2 million for each episode. This makes him the highest-paid TV actor ever at that time.
The death of Lee Dutton, John’s eldest son, was a huge surprise. He was killed in the show’s very first episode.
Q. Did Kevin Costner like Alan Rickman?
A. Even though Alan Rickman’s contributions helped improve Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, his actions made lead actor Kevin Costner feel left out and annoyed.
