THE GODFATHER (1972)--What else is there to say about Francis Ford Coppolas legendary adaptation of Mario Puzos popular novel about the trials and tribulations of a Mafia family? Few other films have been so revered by critics and audiences alike; even fewer films have been so influential, as the number of tributes, parodies, and outright ripoffs can attest. It is the source of perhaps the greatest number of famous movie quotes in cinema history (or is a close second behind Casablanca). Without it, there would be no Goodfellas, and certainly there would be nothing like The Sopranos. It has had such an impact on popular culture—other movies, TV shows, novels, video games, and even a pizza chain—that it may be truly impossible to accurately gauge its full significance to the world. The Godfather isnt the first movie about the Mafia, but it is the first that matters. Marlon Brando is magnetic as Don Corleone, although his performance contains obvious signs of the mannered and eccentric approach to acting that some say marred his later performances (me, I just think watching Brando reading the paper would be fascinating). Even better, perhaps, is Al Pacino as Michael, youngest of the Corleone men, who tries to stay out of the family business but becomes its most ruthless booster. I think its been 20 years or so since Pacino played anything than “Al Pacino,” and his turn as Michael is proof that at one time he was the future of American acting. The fine supporting cast includes such legends as Robert Duvall, Sterling Hayden, Diane Keaton, Al Letteri, Talia Shire, and James Caan, whose unfortunate demise at a toll booth is forever burned into my mind as the earliest memory I have of watching a movie in a theater (technically a drive-in theater, but you know what I mean). If nothing else, the picture would be worthwhile for introducing the world to the cinematic and television greatness that is Abe Vigoda. There is no doubt that The Godfather is among the greatest achievements in the history of motion pictures and one of the most deserving of Best Picture winners. RATING: *****
Posted on: Sun, 09 Mar 2014 10:26:47 +0000
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