Why is Robert De Niro Projected as a Prominent Actor in 'Goodfellas'?

Introduction

In the critically acclaimed film 'Goodfellas,' Robert De Niro was projected as a prominent actor, capturing the essence of the iconic character Jimmy Conway. This article explores why De Niro's portrayal was so pivotal, despite Ray Liotta being the central character according to the original book 'Wiseguys.'

Star Power

At the time of 'Goodfellas' release, Robert De Niro was already an established and acclaimed actor, known for his powerful performances in films such as The Godfather Part II, Mean Streets, and Taxi Driver. This star power alone helped elevate his character to prominence in discussions about the film.

Character Complexity

The role of Jimmy Conway is a pivotal character in the narrative. His close relationship with Henry Hill and his involvement in key plot developments make him essential to the story. De Niro's performance is celebrated for capturing the intricate and nuanced aspects of a mobster's life, making Jimmy Conway a memorable character.

Cinematic Techniques

Scorsese's directorial style often uses cinematic techniques such as close-ups, dramatic camera angles, and music cues to highlight certain characters. De Niro’s character benefits greatly from these techniques, enhancing his presence in the film. The use of these techniques further cements his prominent role in the movie.

Cultural Impact

De Niro’s portrayal of Jimmy Conway has become iconic, influencing the portrayal of mobsters in cinema. His performance is frequently referenced in discussions about gangster films and has contributed to a lasting legacy in Hollywood.

While Ray Liotta is indeed the central character according to the original book 'Wiseguys,' the combination of De Niro's established reputation and the complexity of his role leads to his prominent projection in discussions about the film. This prominence is further reinforced by the strategic positioning of actors' names on the movie poster and their close-to-similar billing in marketing materials.

For instance, Frank Zhang, who worked on the 'Goodfellas' marketing campaign, stated that having De Niro's name ever so slightly above Ray Liotta’s was a 'contract move,' likely because De Niro was a veteran star and friend of both the director and producer. This strategic positioning underscores the importance of De Niro's character in the film's marketing and critical reception.

Furthermore, having a relative unknown like Ray Liotta share the billing with two legends—De Niro and Joseph Pesci—was actually a strategic move. It provided Liotta with greater exposure and visibility, allowing him to carve out a place as a respected actor in the industry. While Paul Sorvino also had a significant role, the marketing team's decision to give De Niro and Pesci slightly higher billing was likely a strategic choice to enhance the film's overall appeal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Robert De Niro's projection as a prominent actor in 'Goodfellas' is a testament to his star power, the complexity of his character, the director's cinematic techniques, and the strategic marketing decisions made during the film's production. Despite the central role of Henry Hill as per the original source material, De Niro's prominent projection in discussions about the film is a clear indication of his significant contribution to its lasting impact in the world of cinema.

Additional Resources:

Goodfellas on IMDb Official Goodfellas Website Robert De Niro on Wikipedia Goodfellas on Wikipedia