The Godfather

UK Release Date: 24 August 1972
Certification: 15
Director: Francis Ford Coppola
Cast: Marlon Brando, James Caan, Richard S. Castellona, Robert Duvall, Sterling Hayden, Diane Keaton, Al Lettieri, Al Pacino
Rating: 100%

"I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse."

Review:

I was afraid that I'd come out of The Godfather on it's 50th anniversary in the UK disappointed as it's often considered one of, if not, the greatest films ever made but gladly, that is for good reason. This is not only the best film I've ever seen but it's also one of the finest accomplishments in modern history. This is perfection, it would be a genuine challenge to discover a list that doesn't have this in their top five films of all time. I was just in awe of this masterpiece for three hours. 

You can't take your eyes off the late Marlon Brando during The Godfather. He chews up scene after scene, it's the performance of a lifetime. One of the most dazzling, legendary performances seen on the silver screen, you can't take your eyes off him. He may be an opposing, cold, ruthless figure but he shows real emotional depth over the course of the film following the tragic events that befall his family. I love every minor little detail he puts into the role. From the constant gaping frown to the low grumble that makes him difficult to understand he embodies the don - he's the quintessential Godfather. Al Pacino is just as breathtaking as Brando. This is one of his earliest roles and to be able to reach this level of individual performance so young is phenomenal. This was a consistency he's kept up for the rest of his career in the likes of Dog Day Afternoon, Heat, and Scarface - it's the reason why he's one of the greats. He's effervescent as Michael Corleone, a character who gets dragged back into the Mafia after his father's health declines. His arc from the beginning of the film to the very end is fantastic and I'm sure it will continue to get even better throughout the rest of the trilogy. With supporting members including James Caan (who's absolutely insane in this film), Robert Duvall and Diane Keaton, The Godfather assembles an almighty cast to keep the audience enthralled. 

Francis Ford Coppola achieved excellence and perfection when he adapted Mario Puzo's novel and made The Godfather. Teaming up with now, renowned cinematographer Gordon Willis they created an array of some of the most iconic and well-known shots in film. You have the dark, dimly lit scenes following the attack on the Don emphasising the depravity of the situation. The oranges that indicate a character's death. And some stunning set pieces, including a mob hit backdropped by The Statue of Liberty - "Leave the gun. Take the cannoli."

I'm not one to complain about a movie's runtime - in fact I prefer longer runtimes - but the most common complaint surrounding The Godfather is it's pacing. However, I thought it was immaculate a story spanning the course of a decade told in three hours. Yes it's slow in the modern climate but the film takes its time developing each character to the point that you truly care for them despite their harrowing actions. The Godfather doesn't waste a second, every scene, every frame, is important. I'm glad Coppola made a sequel because I came out of the film craving more. 

Nino Rota and Carlo Savina combine to create one of the most memorable film scores of all time. Every piece of music is a work of art, a classic. 'The Godfather Waltz' is perhaps the most recognisable main theme of a film. It demonstrates the Italian way of living whilst hinting at some darker undertones of the Corleone family through the use of the oboe, accordion and mandolin. 'Love Theme' is not simply a beautiful piece of music but it indicates a shift in the narrative of The Godfather as Michael spends time in Italy. For fifteen minutes the film somewhat calms down highlighting a more romantic period for Michael.  

Not only is The Godfather an acclaimed and notable edition to film history but it also explores and draws attention to the beauty of Italian culture during the 40's and 50's. The iconic locations in Sicily are absolutely breathtaking. The small village of Savoca, where Michael first met Apollonia's father, has a statue dedicated to Francis Ford Coppola. The film has made me want to learn Italian and visit Sicily in the future.