The Godfather, directed by Francis Ford Coppola, is a 1972 Oscar-winning American crime-epic. The film was based on Mario Puzo’s novel of the same name. Credited by many as having one of the best casts ever, it starred Marlon Brando in the title role of the Italian-American, New York-based Crime Boss, Vito Corleone – the “Don”, or “the Godfather” – and Al Pacino as the leading character, Michael Corleone. The Godfather has had a lasting impact on the film industry. It is frequently cited as the best film ever made and features in the Top 10 of lists of the same name. It’s success spawned two sequels (the Godfather II and III), which were both highly acclaimed. On IMDB’s list of the Top 250 films ever, the Godfather and the Godfather II are ranked as 2nd and 3rd respectively.
The film mostly focuses on the life of Michael Corleone, son of the Don, who is a reluctant outsider to the ‘family business’ of crime. When the violence between New York’s mobster-families grows out of hand, Michael is drawn in to the business. Unwittingly, Michael finds himself becoming entangled in events until eventually he emerges as the ruthless leader of the Corleone family business. The acting in the film is outstanding, but particular credit must be given to the exceptional portrayals of the Don, by the incomparable Marlon Brando, and Michael, by the outstanding Al Pacino.
The film was an inspiring success and for a time the highest-grossing film of all time. It was nominated for 10 Oscars and won three: Best Picture, Best Actor (for Brando) and Best Adapted Screenplay. The Godfather has gone on to have a lasting impact on cinema. It’s sympathetic portrayal of mobsters as characters with real psychological depth made it stunningly original in the genre of crime films. It’s penultimate scene – the christening – has gone down in legend and was notably pastiched in George Lucas’ Star Wars III, when Anakin joins the Sith and the Jedi are assassinated. Several quotes have also gone down in legend, such as the Don’s: “I’m gonna make him an offer he can’t refuse”, which was voted one of the most memorable quotes in the history of cinema. Many of the films scenes have been parodied in other films – not even films of the genre – and across TV, such as in the Simpsons – which is a testimony to its influence and awesomeness.
AWESOME INSPIRATION 