Mise-En-Scene in Goodfellas
I decided to make my mise-en-scene assignment about the 1990 film “Goodfellas.” I originally wanted to talk about the mise-en-scene in the new Borat sequel but after some consideration the mockumentary had more of a focus on comedy and improv than on the cinematography and the lighting. I chose Goodfellas as the new film to write about because despite being a Robert DeNiro fan I haven't seen Goodfellas in a long while and decided to rewatch it. In the movie we are introduced to Henry Hill, a high profile gangster in 1950s New York City. The setting of NYC is important because the city was the epicenter of crime and mob activity during prohibition and into the 1970s. Showing how Henry must keep his connection to the mob a secret or else he is in danger of getting him arrested or worse, killed. Also, since the film is a mob movie the use of low-key lighting throughout the movie helps give off the dark, gritty, and secretive life of a New York gangster. The use of showing dark sha...
