The opening scene of #TheGodfather is unique. It does not focus on establishing the larger than life of a Don, nor does it commence with a violent scene of retribution. It is shot in a dimly lit room, but the opening dialogues set up the premise and the philosophy of the powerful Corleone family in the America of that period.
“I understand. You found paradise in America, you had a good trade, made a good living. The police protected you and there were courts of law. And you didn’t need a friend like me. But now you come to me and you say, “Don Corleone give me justice.” But you don’t ask with respect. You don’t offer friendship. You don’t even think to call me “Godfather.” Instead, you come into my house on the day my daughter is to be married, and you ask me to do murder, for money” says Don Vito Corleone to the man who has come to seek his help.
The scene establishes how it is not money that drives the mafia. It is relationship, kinship and loyalty. There is a sense of honour that reigns paramount through the film, Retribution for one’s wrongs is inevitable and will bring pain, but an honourable man will look it in the eye and take it in his stride. The Godfather trilogy chronicles the story of the most powerful organised family – the Corleones.
ASHOK’s FIVE reviews a masterpiece in cinematic work - #FrancisFordCoppola’s #TheGodfather trilogy, adapted from the best-selling book by #MarioPuzo. The book, incidentally sold 21 mm copies worldwide. The first of the three films was released 48 years ago in 1972 and would rank as one of the finest celluloid adaptations of a book.
#FrancisFordCoppola was not really a top draw director at that time and interestingly, #MarlonBrando himself was over the hill and #AlPacino was a B grade actor. Most critics wrote off the project but from the time the first film hit the screens, there was no doubt that it was a classic. The film went on to win three Oscars including best picture. The trilogy bagged nine Oscars and is considered one of the epitomes of popular American pop culture.
No review of #TheGodfather can be complete with a mention of how #MarlonBrando puffed up his cheeks to get a ‘bull-dog’ look and put cotton in his cheeks to get that special voice. He had read that Vito Corleone had been shot in the throat and this was a special improvisation he brought to the table. I remember how classmates in school back in Calcutta came back after watching the film and would talk in that ‘menace-laden’ tone for days together.
The film also changed the way Americans stereotyped Italians. The mafia was made more romantic and honourable. Violence was portrayed in a different way – the severed head of the horse, the pregnant wife being blown up in a car or the shooting of Sonny Corleone at a deserted toll.
Part 2 of the trilogy was released two years later and told the story of how Michael took on the reins and furthered the family’s interests. The second film also showcased the turmoil in the mind as Michael separates from his wife, played by #DianeKeaton. It also showed how Michael transformed from a soft-spoken, more human persona to a hardened mafia boss, even more ruthless in his new avatar. Some of the best scenes, belong to #RobertDiNiro, playing the younger Vito.
Part 3 released in 1990 and by that time the franchise had raised expectations. The film earned several nominations but did not win any. The final scene on the steps of the chapel where Michael screams in agony at the loss of his daughter is poignant and a fitting finale to the series. #AndyGarcia as Sonny’s son Vincent Mancini is brilliant in his role.
#TheGodfather trilogy is such a brilliant series because of three reasons – exceptional writing, superlative characterisation and maximum impact. Each scene is crafted with perfection. The build-up to Sonny’s killing is done so well you are taken by surprise at the treachery.
The films are not about the violence at all. Instead, you need to watch very carefully for the nuances of each character and each dialogue because the book and the films are all about inter-personal dynamics. Each action is the outcome of some other action and hence justified.
The other interesting aspect is that there is no civilian crimes committed at any time. Women are not pushed into prostitution; there is no theft, no gambling and no fraud. The story is one of credo, of honour and of standing by your conviction. And therein lies the greatness of the film.
In conclusion, I can’t help ending with a few of the iconic dialogues that #TheGodfather is famous for. These are courtesy of scoopwhoop.com.
#TheGodfather is a series I keep going back to every few years. It is a fine example of the best in film making and stands out owing to nuanced acting, striking imagery and excellent writing. Iconic is the word you are looking for!
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