The Godfather: A Masterpiece of Crime Cinema
The Godfather is a 1972 American crime film directed by Francis Ford Coppola, who co-wrote the screenplay with Mario Puzo, based on Puzo's best-selling 1969 novel of the same title. The film stars Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, James Caan, Richard Castellano, Robert Duvall, Sterling Hayden, John Marley, Richard Conte, and Diane Keaton. It is the first installment in The Godfather trilogy, chronicling the Corleone family under patriarch Vito Corleone (Brando) from 1945 to 1955. It focuses on the transformation of his youngest son, Michael Corleone (Pacino), from reluctant family outsider to ruthless mafia boss.
The Godfather is regarded as one of the greatest and most influential films ever made, as well as a landmark of the gangster genre. It has received universal acclaim from critics and audiences, who praised its performancesparticularly those of Brando and Pacinodirection, screenplay, cinematography, editing, score, and portrayal of the mafia. It was the highest-grossing film of 1972, and was for a time the highest-grossing film ever made. It won three Academy Awards for Best Picture, Best Actor (Brando), and Best Adapted Screenplay (for Puzo and Coppola), and was nominated for seven others. It has also been selected for preservation in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant".
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In this article, we will explore what makes The Godfather such a masterpiece of crime cinema. We will look at the story, the making, and the impact of this iconic film.
Introduction
What is The Godfather about?
The Godfather is a film that tells the story of the Corleone family, a powerful and respected crime dynasty in New York City. The film spans from 1945 to 1955, covering a crucial period in American history that saw the rise of organized crime, the post-war economic boom, the immigration wave from Europe, and the beginning of the Cold War.
The film begins with the wedding of Don Vito Corleone's daughter Connie (Talia Shire) to Carlo Rizzi (Gianni Russo). Don Vito (Marlon Brando) is the head of the Corleone family, one of the five families that control the underworld in New York. He is a benevolent and respected leader who values loyalty, honor, and tradition. He is also a loving father to his four children: Sonny (James Caan), the hot-headed eldest son who acts as his underboss; Fredo (John Cazale), the weak and insecure middle son who runs the family's casino in Las Vegas; Michael (Al Pacino), the youngest son who is a decorated war hero and wants nothing to do with the family business; and Connie (Talia Shire), the only daughter who is spoiled and naive.
Don Vito's life is threatened when he refuses to join forces with Virgil Sollozzo (Al Lettieri), a drug lord who wants to sell heroin in New York with the help of Don Vito's rival, Philip Tattaglia (Victor Rendina). Sollozzo attempts to assassinate Don Vito but fails. Michael saves his father's life by killing Sollozzo and his bodyguard, Captain McCluskey (Sterling Hayden), a corrupt police officer. Michael then flees to Sicily to hide from the law and the other families who declare war on the Corleones.While Michael is in Sicily, he falls in love with and marries a local girl named Apollonia (Simonetta Stefanelli). However, his happiness is short-lived when Apollonia is killed by a car bomb intended for Michael. Meanwhile, in New York, Sonny is also killed by the rival families in a brutal ambush. Don Vito, who has recovered from his wounds, decides to end the war and make peace with the other families. He also arranges for Michael's return to America.
Michael reunites with his old girlfriend, Kay Adams (Diane Keaton), and marries her. He also takes over the family business from his father, who is now semi-retired. Michael proves to be a ruthless and cunning leader who consolidates his power and expands his empire. He also seeks revenge for the deaths of his father and brother by orchestrating the murders of all his enemies, including Carlo, who betrayed Sonny; Tessio (Abe Vigoda), who betrayed Michael; Barzini (Richard Conte), who orchestrated the war; and Moe Greene (Alex Rocco), who insulted Fredo. He also orders the assassination of his brother-in-law, Carlo Rizzi (Gianni Russo), who betrayed Sonny.
The film ends with Michael lying to Kay about his involvement in Carlo's death, and becoming the new Don Corleone. The final shot shows him being greeted by his loyal capos as "Don Michael Corleone", while Kay looks on with horror and disbelief.
The Story of The Godfather
The plot summary
The plot summary of The Godfather is as follows:
The film begins with the wedding of Don Vito Corleone's daughter Connie to Carlo Rizzi.
Don Vito refuses to join forces with drug lord Virgil Sollozzo, who is backed by rival family Tattaglia.
Sollozzo attempts to assassinate Don Vito but fails. Michael saves his father's life by killing Sollozzo and his bodyguard, Captain McCluskey.
Michael flees to Sicily to hide from the law and the other families who declare war on the Corleones.
While in Sicily, Michael falls in love with and marries Apollonia, who is killed by a car bomb intended for him.
In New York, Sonny is killed by the rival families in an ambush. Don Vito makes peace with the other families and arranges for Michael's return.
Michael reunites with Kay and marries her. He takes over the family business from his father.
Michael consolidates his power and expands his empire. He also avenges his father and brother by killing all his enemies.
The film ends with Michael becoming the new Don Corleone and lying to Kay about his involvement in Carlo's death.
The main characters
The main characters of The Godfather are:
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NameActorRole
Vito CorleoneMarlon BrandoThe aging patriarch of the Corleone family and a respected mafia boss.
Michael CorleoneAl PacinoThe youngest son of Vito and his successor as the head of the family.
Sonny CorleoneJames CaanThe eldest son of Vito and his underboss. He is impulsive and violent.
Fredo CorleoneJohn CazaleThe middle son of Vito and his casino manager. He is weak and insecure.
Connie CorleoneTalia ShireThe only daughter of Vito and the wife of Carlo Rizzi. She is spoiled and naive.
Kay AdamsDiane KeatonThe girlfriend and later wife of Michael. She is an American WASP who is unaware of Michael's true nature.
Tom HagenRobert DuvallThe adopted son of Vito and his consigliere. He is a lawyer and a peacemaker.
ClemenzaRichard CastellanoA caporegime in the Corleone family and a loyal friend of Vito.
Tessio Abe VigodaA caporegime in the Corleone family and a friend of Vito. He betrays Michael and is killed.
Carlo RizziGianni RussoThe husband of Connie and a low-level associate of the Corleone family. He abuses Connie and is involved in Sonny's murder. He is killed by Michael.
Virgil SollozzoAl LettieriA drug lord who wants to sell heroin in New York with the help of Tattaglia. He tries to kill Vito and is killed by Michael.
Philip TattagliaVictor RendinaThe head of the Tattaglia family and a rival of Vito. He allies with Sollozzo and Barzini. He is killed by Michael.
Emilio BarziniRichard ConteThe head of the Barzini family and the mastermind behind the war against the Corleones. He is killed by Michael.
Moe GreeneAlex RoccoThe owner of a casino in Las Vegas and a former partner of the Corleones. He insults Fredo and refuses to sell his casino to Michael. He is killed by Michael.
Apollonia VitelliSimonetta StefanelliThe wife of Michael in Sicily. She is killed by a car bomb intended for Michael.
Captain McCluskeySterling HaydenA corrupt police officer who works for Sollozzo. He breaks Michael's jaw and is killed by Michael.
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The themes and messages
The Godfather explores various themes and messages that resonate with the viewers, such as:
The nature of power and corruption: The film shows how power can corrupt individuals and institutions, and how it can be used for good or evil. It also shows how power can be inherited, earned, or taken by force, and how it can be challenged or lost.
The importance of family and loyalty: The film depicts the strong bonds and values of the Corleone family, who stick together through thick and thin, and who protect each other from their enemies. It also shows how loyalty can be tested, betrayed, or rewarded, and how it can have consequences for oneself and others.
The clash of cultures and generations: The film portrays the contrast between the old world and the new world, between the traditional and the modern, between the immigrant and the native. It also shows how different generations have different views, goals, and methods, and how they can conflict or cooperate with each other.
The morality of crime and violence: The film questions the morality of crime and violence, and how they can be justified or condemned. It also shows how crime and violence can affect individuals, families, and society, and how they can have moral, emotional, or physical costs.
The American dream and identity: The film explores the idea of the American dream, and how it can be pursued or achieved by different people in different ways. It also shows how one's identity can be shaped or changed by one's environment, choices, or actions.
The Making of The Godfather
The novel by Mario Puzo
The Godfather is based on the 1969 novel of the same name by Mario Puzo, an Italian-American author who had previously written two novels that were critically acclaimed but commercially unsuccessful. Puzo was inspired by his own experience as an immigrant in New York, as well as by his fascination with the mafia. He wanted to write a novel that would appeal to a mass audience and make him rich.
Puzo spent three years researching and writing The Godfather, drawing from various sources such as newspaper articles, court transcripts, interviews, books, documentaries, and his own imagination. He also consulted with real-life gangsters such as Joseph Colombo, the head of the Colombo crime family, who gave him some insights into the mafia world. Puzo created a fictional story that blended historical facts with fictional elements, such as the characters of Vito Corleone and his family.
The novel was published in March 1969 by G.P. Putnam's Sons, after being rejected by several publishers who thought it was too violent or too clichéd. However, the novel became an instant bestseller, selling over 21 million copies worldwide and receiving positive reviews from critics and readers. It was praised for its realistic and captivating portrayal of the mafia, its complex and compelling characters, its gripping and suspenseful plot, and its rich and vivid prose. It was also criticized for its graphic and gratuitous violence, its stereotypical and sexist depiction of women, and its glorification of crime and corruption. The novel has been ranked among the best novels of the 20th century by various publications and organizations.
The adaptation by Francis Ford Coppola
The film adaptation of The Godfather was produced by Paramount Pictures, who bought the rights to the novel in 1969 for $80,000. The studio initially wanted to make a low-budget film that would capitalize on the popularity of the novel, and hired a young and relatively unknown director named Francis Ford Coppola to helm the project. Coppola was an Italian-American filmmaker who had directed a few films that were critically acclaimed but commercially unsuccessful. He was also a fan of the novel and wanted to make a film that would honor his heritage and culture.
Coppola faced many challenges and conflicts during the production of The Godfather, such as creative differences with the studio executives, who wanted to change the setting, the cast, and the tone of the film; budgetary and scheduling constraints, which forced him to shoot the film in 62 days with a budget of $6 million; technical difficulties, such as bad weather, faulty equipment, and location problems; and personal issues, such as stress, illness, and family problems. Coppola also had to deal with the pressure and interference from the real-life mafia, who were unhappy with the portrayal of their organization in the film.
Despite these obstacles, Coppola managed to make a film that was faithful to the novel and his vision. He co-wrote the screenplay with Mario Puzo, who gave him creative freedom and support. He also assembled a talented crew of collaborators, such as cinematographer Gordon Willis, editor William Reynolds, production designer Dean Tavoularis, costume designer Anna Hill Johnstone, composer Nino Rota, and sound designer Walter Murch. He also fought for his choice of actors, who delivered memorable performances that defined their careers. The casting and performances
The casting of The Godfather was one of the most crucial and controversial aspects of the film. Coppola wanted to cast actors who were authentic and suitable for their roles, and who could bring depth and nuance to their characters. He also wanted to cast unknown or relatively unknown actors who would not overshadow the film or the story. However, the studio executives had different opinions and preferences, and often clashed with Coppola over his choices.
The most disputed role was that of Vito Corleone, the titular godfather. Coppola wanted to cast Marlon Brando, a legendary actor who had won two Academy Awards for Best Actor, but who had also gained a reputation for being difficult, eccentric, and unreliable. The studio executives were opposed to Brando, who they considered to be a box office poison and a liability. They suggested other actors, such as Laurence Olivier, Ernest Borgnine, George C. Scott, and Anthony Quinn. Coppola insisted on Brando, who agreed to do a screen test and to work for a low salary and a percentage of the profits. Coppola was impressed by Brando's screen test, in which he transformed himself into an old and powerful don by using makeup, props, and voice modulation. He convinced the studio executives to approve Brando, who went on to deliver one of his most iconic and acclaimed performances.
The other disputed role was that of Michael Corleone, the protagonist of the film. Coppola wanted to cast Al Pacino, a young and unknown actor who had impressed him in an off-Broadway play. The studio executives were against Pacino, who they thought was too short, too dark, and too inexperienced for the role. They suggested other actors, such as Robert Redford, Warren Beatty, Jack Nicholson, and Ryan O'Neal. Coppola fought for Pacino, who had to audition several times and face criticism from the studio executives and even some of his co-stars. Coppola believed that Pacino had the potential to portray Michael's complex character arc, from an innocent outsider to a ruthless leader. Pacino proved Coppola right by giving a breakthrough performance that earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
The rest of the cast was also carefully chosen by Coppola, who often relied on his intuition and personal connections. He cast James Caan as Sonny Corleone, after seeing him in a TV movie; Robert Duvall as Tom Hagen, after working with him in his previous film; John Cazale as Fredo Corleone, after seeing him in a play with Pacino; Talia Shire as Connie Corleone, who was his sister; Diane Keaton as Kay Adams, after meeting her at a party; Richard Castellano as Clemenza, after seeing him in a Broadway play; Abe Vigoda as Tessio , after seeing him in a TV show; Gianni Russo as Carlo Rizzi, who was a real-life associate of the mafia; Al Lettieri as Sollozzo, who was a friend of Puzo; Victor Rendina as Tattaglia, who was a local actor; Richard Conte as Barzini, who was a veteran actor of the noir genre; Alex Rocco as Moe Greene, who was a former boxer; Simonetta Stefanelli as Apollonia, who was an Italian actress; and Sterling Hayden as McCluskey, who was a former marine and a film noir star. Coppola also cast many non-professional actors, such as his father, his mother, his children, his friends, and even some real-life gangsters, to add realism and authenticity to the film.
The cinematography and music
The cinematography and music of The Godfather are also essential elements of the film's artistic and aesthetic value. The cinematography was done by Gordon Willis, who used a dark and muted color palette, low-key lighting, deep shadows, and long takes to create a somber and realistic mood for the film. He also used various techniques, such as zooms, pans, tilts, dollies, and cranes, to enhance the drama and tension of the scenes. He also used symbolic imagery, such as oranges, trains, doors, windows, and mirrors, to foreshadow or reflect the characters' fates or emotions. Willis's cinematography has been praised for its beauty and innovation, and has influenced many filmmakers.
The music was composed by Nino Rota, who used a mix of classical and popular music styles to create a memorable and emotional score for the film. He used various instruments, such as mandolins, guitars, pianos, violins, trumpets, and accordions, to evoke the different cultures and moods of the film. He also used various themes, such as "The Godfather Waltz", "The Love Theme", "The Sicilian Theme", and "The Godfather Finale", to represent the different characters and situations of the film. Rota's music has been praised for its beauty and simplicity, and has become one of the most recognizable and iconic scores in film history.
The Impact of The Godfather
The critical and commercial success
The Godfather was released on March 15, 1972 in New York City, and on March 24 in the rest of the United States. It received rave reviews from critics and audiences alike, who hailed it as a masterpiece of cinema. It was praised for its direction, screenplay influence. It won three Academy Awards for Best Picture, Best Actor (for Marlon Brando), and Best Adapted Screenplay (for Mario Puzo and Francis Ford Coppola), and was nominated for seven others, including Best Director, Best Supporting Actor (for Al Pacino, James Caan, and Robert Duvall), Best Costume Design, and Best Film Editing. It also won five Golden Globe Awards for Best Motion Picture Drama, Best Director, Best Actor Drama (for Marlon Brando), Best Screenplay, and Best Original Score. It also won the Grammy Award for Best Original Score Written for a Motion Picture or Television Special. It also received many other awards and honors from various film festivals, critics associations, and industry organizations.
The influence and legacy
The Godfather has had a lasting influence and legacy on cinema and culture. It has inspired and influenced many filmmakers, such as Martin Scorsese, Quentin Tarantino, Steven Spielberg, David Chase, and Francis Ford Coppola himself. It has also influenced many genres, such as crime, drama, thriller, action, comedy, and horror. It has also influenced many aspects of popular culture, such as music, literature, television, video games, comics, art, and fashion. It has also influenced many aspects of society, such as politics, law, business, and religion.
The Godfather is widely considered to be one of the greatest and most important films ever made. It has been ranked among the best films of all time by various publications and organizations, such as the American Film Institute, the British Film Institute, the Library of Congress, the National Society of Film Critics, the Sight & Sound poll, the Time magazine, and the IMDb. It has also been praised by many celebrities and public figures, such as Barack Obama, Robert De Niro, Al Pacino himself, Oprah Winfrey, and Pope Francis.
Conclusion
The Godfather is a masterpiece of crime cinema that tells the story of the Corleone family, a powerful and respected crime dynasty in New York City. The film explores the themes of power, corruption, family, loyalty, culture, and morality, through the characters of Vito Corleone, the aging patriarch, and Michael Corleone, his youngest son and successor. The film is based on the novel by Mario Puzo, and was directed by Francis Ford Coppola, who co-wrote the screenplay with Puzo. The film features a stellar cast of actors, such as Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, James Caan, Robert Duvall, and Diane Keaton, who deliver unforgettable performances. The film also boasts a stunning cinematography by Gordon Willis, and a haunting music score by Nino Rota. The film is regarded as one of the greatest and most influential films ever made, and has received universal acclaim from critics and audiences, as well as numerous awards and accolades. The film has also inspired and influenced many filmmakers, genres, and aspects of popular culture and society. The Godfather is a film that deserves to be seen and appreciated by everyone who loves cinema.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about The Godfather:
Q: Is The Godfather based on a true story?
A: No, The Godfather is not based on a true story. It is a fictional story that was created by Mario Puzo for his novel of the same name. However, the story was inspired by some historical facts and real-life people and events related to the mafia world.
Q: Why did Marlon Brando refuse to accept his Oscar for Best Actor?
A: Marlon Brando refused to accept his Oscar for Best Actor as a protest against the treatment of Native Americans by the film industry and the government. He sent a Native American actress named Sacheen Littlefeather to decline the award on his behalf.
Q: What does the horse head scene mean?
A: The horse head scene is a scene in which Jack Woltz (John Marley), a Hollywood producer who refuses to cast Johnny Fontane (Al Martino), a singer and godson of Vito Corleone, in his film, wakes up to find the severed head of his prized racehorse in his bed. The scene means that the Corleones have sent him a message that they are serious and powerful, and that he should not mess with them.
Q: What is the significance of the oranges in the film?
A: The oranges are a symbolic motif that appear throughout the film. They are often associated with death or danger, as they are seen before or during scenes where someone is killed or threatened. Some possible interpretations of the oranges are that they represent Sicily, where the Corleones originated from; that they contrast with the dark and gloomy atmosphere of the film; or that they are a reference to an old Sicilian saying that "to die like an orange" means to die peacefully.
Q: What is the meaning of the title "The Godfather"?
A: The title "The Godfather" refers to Vito Corleone, who is not only the head of the Corleone family, but also a godfather to many people who seek his help or protection. He is also a godfather in the religious sense, as he is a sponsor for many baptisms and confirmations. The title also implies that he is a powerful and respected figure who commands loyalty and obedience from his followers.
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