Lorraine Bracco recently took time to honor her Goodfellas co-star Ray Liotta and shared how much his support meant to her on set. The 1990 film, directed by Martin Scorsese, remains an iconic mob classic. Its influence not only shaped Bracco’s career but the careers of everyone involved, making it central to the history of Hollywood gangster movies. Bracco, who played Karen Friedman, spoke candidly about her experience and credited Ray Liotta for guiding her through one of the most complex scenes in the movie.
The discussion came up during her press for the upcoming Netflix comedy Nonnas, where Bracco stars alongside Susan Sarandon and Talia Shire. Reflecting on her work in Goodfellas, she described feeling “clueless” at times but always felt supported by Liotta’s presence and leadership. With the film’s release on September 19, 1990, it became an enduring success, influencing crime dramas for decades to come.
The Copacabana Steadicam Shot
The Copacabana scene in Goodfellas is considered a masterclass in filmmaking. The three-minute, one-take Steadicam shot follows Henry Hill, played by Ray Liotta, and Karen, played by Bracco, as they enter the famous New York nightclub. This complex scene required perfect timing, teamwork, and absolute focus from the cast and crew. The camera weaves through kitchens, corridors, and busy waitstaff, never cutting or breaking, and makes the audience feel as if they’re part of the action.
What makes this scene so memorable is its seamless immersion. Scorsese crafted it as a way to introduce Karen (and the audience) to the intoxicating world of organized crime. The meticulous choreography meant everyone had to hit their marks perfectly. According to Bracco, Ray Liotta did more than just lead her character – he literally led her through the takes, ensuring every part fell into place.
Bracco admitted in recent interviews that she was often “clueless” during the shoot. She felt overwhelmed by the complexity, but Liotta would quietly guide her, sometimes physically placing her on her mark. She said, “Thank God for Ray Liotta, God bless his soul. He was my mentor in making Goodfellas.” That support shines on screen, as the chemistry between the two is palpable, and the camera work makes the entire moment unforgettable.
Today, the Copacabana shot is dissected in film schools and praised by critics as one of the greatest tracking shots in movie history. It’s more than a technical achievement – it’s a show of trust and skill among the film’s key players, especially Liotta and Bracco.
Ray Liotta’s Influence on Bracco’s Performance
Ray Liotta’s contribution to Lorraine Bracco’s portrayal of Karen is essential. As she recently revealed, Liotta didn’t just provide on-screen chemistry; he was a guiding force on set, especially in moments when Bracco felt lost or nervous about a scene. His steady, confident approach helped her find her rhythm.
Bracco has said, “He would put me on my mark. You can see, he drags me through. I just followed Ray, really.” This testimony highlights how much she depended on Liotta’s leadership and presence during filming. He understood not just his own role but also how to bring out the best in those acting opposite him.
Throughout Goodfellas, Bracco’s performance as Karen is arresting, vulnerable, and believable. For an actress relatively new to big Hollywood productions at the time, Liotta’s mentorship provided a safety net that let her tap into the raw emotion required for her challenging role.
The experience she gained from working with Liotta proved invaluable to her future career. The trust and respect built between them helped her deliver an Oscar-nominated performance and built a foundation for her later achievements.
Goodfellas: Plot and Legacy
Goodfellas tells the real-life story of Henry Hill, a Brooklyn native who becomes involved in the Mafia. The plot, faithful to Nicholas Pileggi’s nonfiction book Wiseguy, follows Hill’s rise from small-time errand boy to a player in the notorious Lufthansa heist – the biggest robbery in American history at the time. The film chronicles his struggle with loyalty, the temptations of crime, and eventual betrayal of his former allies.
The movie’s cast reads like a who’s who of mob cinema: Ray Liotta as Henry Hill, Robert De Niro as the seasoned Jimmy Conway, Joe Pesci as the unpredictable Tommy DeVito, and Paul Sorvino as the stoic Paulie Cicero. Lorraine Bracco brings Karen Hill to life, providing an outsider’s perspective on the world of organized crime.
Released in 1990, Goodfellas quickly earned acclaim as one of Scorsese’s greatest works. It was nominated for six Oscars, with Joe Pesci winning Best Supporting Actor. The film’s combination of dark humor, brutal violence, and realism set it apart from other mob movies, inspiring countless imitators and becoming a staple of gangster film lore.
The cultural impact of Goodfellas remains strong decades later. Its dialogue, characters, and scenes have become part of American pop culture, referenced in everything from other films to television shows and parodies. For many, it’s the definitive word on the rise and fall of an American gangster.
Despite its violent subject matter, the humanity of its leads – thanks in part to Bracco’s deep, insightful performance – ensures viewers care about what happens to these flawed, criminal characters. This mix of exhilarating filmmaking and emotional depth is part of why Goodfellas still resonates years later.
The Making of Goodfellas
Filming Goodfellas was no small feat. Martin Scorsese’s attention to detail meant hours of rehearsal, intricate choreography, and a drive for authenticity. Many scenes used improvisation, with Scorsese encouraging actors like Joe Pesci to ad-lib famous lines. The creative process was collaborative, but also high-pressure, especially for newcomers like Lorraine Bracco.
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The logistics of the Steadicam Copacabana shot alone required weeks of planning, multiple rehearsals, and technical precision. Cameraman Larry McConkey’s work became legendary, as he had to follow the actors in a continuous shot without error. The set was alive, filled with extras and moving parts, each needing to hit their marks consistently.
Scorsese also worked closely with the cast to ensure their performances were grounded. He encouraged Bracco to draw from her own experiences and emotions in building Karen’s character. According to behind-the-scenes stories, there was always an effort to balance the violence and high drama with intimate, real moments.
The collaborative nature of the shoot is part of what made Goodfellas so unique. Scorsese’s open approach allowed actors like Ray Liotta, De Niro, and Bracco to bring their own perspectives to the project, resulting in performances that still stand the test of time.
Bracco’s Journey to an Oscar Nomination
Lorraine Bracco’s role in Goodfellas earned her a nomination for Best Supporting Actress at the 1991 Academy Awards, thanks to her convincing depiction of Karen. Her transformation from a young, naive woman to someone deeply involved in the mob world resonated with critics and audiences alike.
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Bracco’s performance is full of subtle tones – fear, fascination, love, and eventually terror as her character gets pulled deeper into crime and addiction. Critics praised her as the emotional hub of the film, with Roger Ebert calling her “a revelation.” Her ability to hold her own alongside veterans like De Niro and Pesci made her stand out.
The Oscar nomination vaulted Bracco into the spotlight. Though she didn’t win, the recognition cemented her in Hollywood history. Her work on Goodfellas opened doors for her in television and film, preparing her for future high-profile roles.
Being recognized by the Academy for only her second major film was the culmination of years of dedication. Bracco’s tenacity and willingness to embrace vulnerability on screen became career-defining qualities, revered by both peers and fans.
Goodfellas and The Sopranos Connection
Lorraine Bracco’s experience on Goodfellas played a direct role in shaping her career, most notably her casting as Dr. Jennifer Melfi in the landmark HBO series The Sopranos. Creator David Chase was open about the influence Goodfellas had on his mob epic, casting several actors from the film in key roles.
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The realism and authenticity top actors brought to Goodfellas set a new standard for Mafia stories on screen. Elements like the blend of violence and dark humor, complex personal relationships, and a focus on family resonated through The Sopranos as well. Bracco’s transition from the mob wife Karen to psychiatrist Dr. Melfi showed her impressive range and understanding of the genre.
Several Goodfellas alumni, including Michael Imperioli, Frank Vincent, and Tony Sirico, also found a second home on The Sopranos. This crossover helped cement both as foundational works in crime storytelling, with each influencing the other in style, tone, and casting.
Bracco has often cited her Goodfellas experience as foundational to her approach in television, helping her carry the nuance and emotional intensity from film to the small screen. The connection between the two projects is now a beloved piece of TV and film trivia.
Ray Liotta’s Legacy in Cinema
Ray Liotta’s portrayal of Henry Hill in Goodfellas became one of the all-time defining roles in American film. He captured both the charm and danger of Hill – a character who, despite his criminal ways, remains oddly sympathetic to viewers. This mixture was key to Goodfellas’ success and Liotta’s enduring reputation.
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Beyond Goodfellas, Liotta built a diverse career, starring in films such as Field of Dreams, Narc, and Marriage Story. He was known for his magnetic on-screen presence and his willingness to take on complex, sometimes flawed characters. His passing in 2022 led to an outpouring of tributes from across Hollywood, as colleagues remembered his generosity on set.
Liotta’s mentorship of younger actors and ability to elevate a scene has been mentioned by many collaborators. Lorraine Bracco’s stories of his support during Goodfellas are just one example of the impact he left on everyone he worked with.
His influence can be traced in every layer of the crime genre, as his work pushed the boundaries of what a lead gangster could be. Today, Liotta is remembered as both a superstar and a dedicated craftsman, respected for his raw talent and authenticity.
What’s Next for Lorraine Bracco?
After decades of memorable work, Lorraine Bracco is returning to the spotlight in a new Netflix comedy titled Nonnas. The film, set for release on May 9, 2025, marks a new chapter in Bracco’s career as she steps back into a major role, this time embracing humor and heart.
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Nonnas follows Joe Scaravella, played by Vince Vaughn, who overcomes grief by opening a Staten Island Italian restaurant inspired by his mother’s recipes. Scaravella hires local Italian grandmothers, including Bracco, to cook in the kitchen, turning the restaurant into a community hub. Bracco stars alongside Susan Sarandon, Talia Shire, and Brenda Vaccaro.
The film is directed by Stephen Chbosky, best known for The Perks of Being a Wallflower. Bracco’s turn in a comedic and heartfelt ensemble is a departure from her iconic mob-related roles. The film promises a mix of laughter, drama, and plenty of family recipes.
Bracco has described Nonnas as an uplifting project, and fans are eager to see her take on a completely different tone. Netflix’s global reach ensures a wide audience will witness Bracco’s evolving talent in a new light.
Nonnas: Release and Cast
Nonnas is a comedy rooted in family, tradition, and community. The film is based on the true story of Joe Scaravella, who rebuilt his life and found healing by opening a restaurant staffed by local grandmothers. The movie debuts on Netflix on May 9, 2025, adding to the growing roster of feel-good titles from the streaming giant.
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Bracco’s castmates are a who’s who of Hollywood talent. Susan Sarandon, Talia Shire, Brenda Vaccaro, and Vince Vaughn all bring their own experience and wit to the ensemble comedy. The grandmothers, or “nonnas,” become the heart of the film, each bringing recipes, wisdom, and a generous spirit to the screen.
Director Stephen Chbosky’s uplifting vision promises both funny and emotional moments. The chemistry between the cast members is expected to shine, making the restaurant kitchen scenes some of the most entertaining in recent Netflix releases.
Martin Scorsese’s Enduring Influence
Goodfellas sits alongside other Scorsese classics like Taxi Driver and Casino as critical pieces of American cinema. The filmmaker’s commitment to authenticity, his eye for visual storytelling, and his penchant for capturing complex, flawed characters have made him a living legend.
Scorsese is known for elevating his actors, pushing them out of their comfort zones, and offering them chances to explore every nuance of their roles. On Goodfellas, he brought together a cast and crew willing to experiment, take risks, and embrace improvisation in pursuit of realism. His films continue to inspire future generations of filmmakers.
Today, Scorsese’s legacy can be found in countless directors who cite Goodfellas as a primary influence. Its style, energy, and humanity continue to reverberate throughout cinema. For actors like Bracco, his mentorship and creative vision were life-changing milestones in their careers.
