The Godfather is one of the films that always comes up when discussing the best movies of all time. It is an epic, operatic tale of a mob family. It was directed by legendary filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola. He made several classic films in the 70s (including this film’s sequel) but in my opinion this is his best.
The Set-Up
Michael Corleone (Al Pacino) is the youngest son of Vito Corleone (Marlon Brando) the Don of one of the Five Mafia Families of New York. While his brothers Sonny (James Caan) and Fredo (John Cazale) are in the family business; Michael is a World War II hero and is attending college. Vito hopes that Michael can go legit.
But Vito is attacked by a rival gang. Michael feels compelled to help his family take revenge. After enacted the revenge he has to go into hiding in Italy. While Michael is away Sonny is killed in the gang warfare. Michael comes back from Italy and becomes the acting head of the family.
At first Michael appears to be doing everything for his family’s sake, but as time goes on he becomes more and more ruthless and his actions become more and more brutal.
Why It’s Great
Al Pacino and Marlon Brando deliver some of their best work ever in this film. The supporting cast is amazing as well. Robert Duvall, James Caan, and Diane Keaton were all in their acting prime and all of the other minor roles are perfectly cast as well.
Some of the most memorable moments in cinema come from this film. Coppola and cinematographer Gordon Willis create some of the most famous images. The scenes are dark and shadowy to fit the tone of the story, but they are wide and long shots filled with details.
The sound design is not flashy but it helps convey emotion and add tension.
The film is a long film but it’s paced perfectly. It doesn’t rush and cause confusion but it doesn’t drag either.
And the movie is endlessly quotable. I can’t think of a non-Star Wars movie with as many famous quotes.
Some argue that the Godfather:Part II is a better film, but I disagree. While that is also a great film, the plot is a little bit of a retread. The original also just has more iconic moments than the sequel.
If you love movies, you have to see this movie.