The Real Goodfella
The Real Goodfella

Movie spotlight

The Real Goodfella

2006
Movie
45 min
English

The show features Henry Hill, Martin Scorsese (director of Goodfellas), Nicholas Pileggi (writer of Wiseguy and co-writer of Goodfellas), Gus Russo (author of Gangsters and GoodFellas), Marie Jones (Henry Hill's boss), Alfie McNeil (former U.S. Marshal), FBI agent Edward McDonald, and Joe Hill (Henry Hill's brother). It shows surveillance footage of mob capo Paul Vario's crew and photographs of Jimmy Burke and Paul Vario. The programme gives Henry Hill's personal opinion on what happened, as well as the testimonies of eyewitnesses. It also features an excerpt of a 1978 news report on the famed Lufthansa heist and footage of a newspaper column printed at the same time.

Insights

IMDb6.7/10
Director: Christopher CiccarelliGenres: Documentary, Crime

Plot Summary

This documentary delves into the life and criminal career of Henry Hill, the infamous mob associate whose story was immortalized in Martin Scorsese's 'Goodfellas.' Narrated by Hill himself, the film offers a firsthand account of his rise and fall within the Lucchese crime family, detailing his involvement in various heists and betrayals. It explores the consequences of his choices and his eventual cooperation with the FBI.

Critical Reception

As a documentary focusing on a real-life figure, critical reception often centers on the authenticity and insight it provides into the mob world. It's generally praised for Henry Hill's direct narration, offering a raw and unfiltered perspective. Some critics note its straightforward, no-frills approach to presenting the facts of his life, while others appreciate its companion status to the fictionalized 'Goodfellas.'

What Reviewers Say

  • Offers a compelling first-person narrative from Henry Hill himself.

  • Provides an unvarnished look at the realities of mob life and its consequences.

  • An essential watch for fans of 'Goodfellas' seeking the true story.

Google audience: Information on Google user ratings and specific feedback for this documentary is not readily available.

Fun Fact

Henry Hill, the subject of this documentary and the inspiration for 'Goodfellas,' was notably absent from the film's premiere as he was serving time in prison at the time.

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