Upon which book is the movie Goodfellas based?

“Wiseguy” by Nicholas Pileggi.

“Goodfellas,” a critically acclaimed and influential film directed by Martin Scorsese, is based on the non-fiction book “Wiseguy: Life in a Mafia Family” by Nicholas Pileggi. Published in 1985, Pileggi’s book is a detailed account of the life of Henry Hill, a former mobster whose insider perspectives provide a striking and authentic portrayal of the workings of the Mafia in the mid-to-late 20th century.

Nicholas Pileggi, a journalist with profound interest and experience in crime reporting, wrote “Wiseguy” after extensive interviews with Henry Hill. The book delves into Hill’s life, exploring his involvement with the Lucchese crime family, one of the Five Families that dominated organized crime activities in New York City. It chronicles his journey from a young, ambitious boy enamored by the gangster lifestyle to a seasoned criminal, involved in significant Mafia-related activities like the Air France Robbery and the Lufthansa heist.

Scorsese’s adaptation, released in 1990 under the title “Goodfellas,” stays remarkably true to the source material, accurately capturing the nuances of Hill’s life and the broader context of Mafia culture. The film is celebrated for its realistic depiction of the Mafia’s daily operations, its violent nature, and the intricacies of the relationships within the crime family. “Goodfellas” is renowned for its fast-paced narrative, its stylistic approach, and its detailed, gritty portrayal of the Mafia’s underbelly.

The film’s narration is done primarily from Hill’s point of view, offering viewers an intimate glance into his experiences, thoughts, and emotions. This narrative style, combined with the film’s dynamic editing and use of popular music of the era, creates a captivating and immersive experience. The performances of the lead actors – Ray Liotta as Henry Hill, Robert De Niro as Jimmy Conway, and Joe Pesci as Tommy DeVito – are pivotal in bringing Pileggi’s characters to life, with Pesci’s portrayal earning him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

“Goodfellas” goes beyond the typical glamorization of the Mafia lifestyle often seen in film, instead presenting a raw, unfiltered look at the crime world. It explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the fragility of the criminal lifestyle, ultimately leading to Hill’s decision to become an FBI informant and enter the Witness Protection Program, effectively breaking his ties with the Mafia.