“Guillermo del Toro’s ‘Perfect Movie’ Lost to Kevin Costner at the Oscars — Endlessly Rewatchable”
Guillermo del Toro Calls Goodfellas Perfect, But It Lost Best Picture to Kevin Costner at the Oscars — Here’s Why the Academy Chose Dances With Wolves
Guillermo del Toro has described Goodfellas as a perfect film, yet it missed out on the Best Picture Oscar, losing to Kevin Costner’s Dances With Wolves in 1991. The defeat of Martin Scorsese’s gritty mob drama by a sweeping Western epic remains one of the Academy’s most debated decisions.
Costner’s directorial debut offered a heartfelt historical story, while Goodfellas redefined gangster cinema and inspired countless filmmakers. Here’s what del Toro said about Scorsese’s masterpiece:
“A movie that can be rewatched endlessly and stays fresh and surprising. Perfect in every aspect, both behind and in front of the camera.”
Del Toro’s praise echoes what many cinephiles have believed for years: Goodfellas is a revolutionary work of cinema. But why did it fail to win? Let’s dive into the reasons.
Why the Oscars Chose Kevin Costner’s Western Over Goodfellas
At the 1991 Oscars, Dances With Wolves took home 7 awards out of 12 nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director. Costner’s story about a Union soldier embracing the culture of the Lakota Sioux was a romanticized yet sincere portrayal of America’s history.
This type of emotional, grand historical narrative appealed strongly to the Academy, which often favors such sweeping tales. Costner, serving as both director and lead actor, was seen as an inspiring first-time filmmaker and underdog.
The film’s themes of unity, redemption, and hope hit the right notes with Academy voters—especially when contrasted with Goodfellas, a violent and profanity-heavy film. Scorsese’s raw and provocative approach may have been too intense for many older Academy members, making Goodfellas less “Oscar-friendly.” In the end, it only secured one Oscar: Best Supporting Actor for Joe Pesci.
Guillermo del Toro’s Admiration for Goodfellas
Years after the Oscars, Goodfellas has become an undisputed classic and a major influence on filmmakers, including del Toro. He has called it “one of the most influential films of the last two decades,” saying that Scorsese’s work essentially “gave birth to the 21st century.”
From the iconic opening to the explosive ending, Goodfellas revolutionized storytelling. Its non-linear narrative reflected the chaotic mindset of its protagonist, Henry Hill, and the film’s immersive style made audiences feel like they were part of the mob world.
Scorsese’s innovative direction remains a staple in film education, with many of Goodfellas’ scenes studied by students today. More than 30 years later, the film’s legacy is untouchable.
So, what do you think—did the Academy make the wrong choice that night?
