[…] Why I Think This Is A Classic 90s Movie: Joe Pesci, who had recently won a Best Supporting Actor Oscar for “GoodFellas”, brings his foul-mouthed, temperamental persona to a fish-out-of-water courtroom …read more […]

Great summary. Only thing I'd disagree with is the antagonist. To me Vinny was always his own antagonist: the obstacles and conflict he faced all originated from his own background and upbringing, and his compulsion for a higher level of respectability & social status.

I never thought of that but it makes sense. Might go back and watch it this weekend from that perspective.

I've always thought a lot of the antagonism came from his stubbornness. It's both his great attribute, not letting him give up on his cousin and also his great flaw, by not allowing anyone to help him. When he realizes he needs Mona to help him, that allows him to prove the boys innocent and show who the actual criminals are.