Fifteen most essential movies #10–The Godfather Trilogy
Released-1972, 1974, 1990
Starring–Al Pacino, Marlon Brando (Pt. 1), Robert DeNiro (Pt. 2), Robert Duvall, Diane Keaton, James Caan (Pt. 1, cameo in Pt. 2), John Cazale (Pt. 1+2), Talia Shire
With Appearances by–a lot of dead bodies, and the great Abe Vigoda
Directed by–Francis Ford Coppola
DVD Special Features–On Location stuff, Trailers, Photo Galleries, Storyboards, Featurettes, and a Documentary, among other things. A whole seperate disc on the box set (which is the only way to buy them)
Best part of the movies: Moe Greene getting shot in the eye, the horse in the bed, Brando any time he spoke, anything Luca Brazi did
Worst part: The level of violence sometimes goes a little overboard, as great as it is. And part 3, while not as bad as people make it out to be–it’s still a damn good movie–has scenes that just were begging to be cut, especially a lot of the Catholic stuff.
The quote we all remember: “Leave the gun. Take the canolli.”
Sarah Vowell books named after that line–1
Negative portrayals of Italian-Americans: 678,138
Positive portrayals of Italian-Americans: significantly less
Italian-Americans who still think the movie kicks ass anyway–13, 209, 155
Why it’s so great: Violent movies can get boring–I’m not a huge fan of them unless they have humor in them, or have a great plot. The Godfather films have amazing plots. It’s not about the violence at all, it’s about the family. And how nobody is perfect. Most of the mob are portrayed as somewhat decent, but very flawed individuals. You don’t hate Michael Corleone–it’s hard to. He’s just been dragged into the world, and once you’re in, you can’t get out. Some of the best acting in the history of movies are in these movies, and you can probably watch all 9+ hours and never get bored (although you may want to leave the room a few times to pee).
I’m not sure what movie is the best. I lean towards the original, although two is great as well. Pacino is brilliant throughout, as is Duvall, and both representations of the Don are classic. So while it may be a little too much sometimes, it’s a hell of a good story.
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