This is possibly the best film of all time. I have been a big fan of gangster films since a young age and had been dying to see this for years. Eventually I was able to purchase it on video. At first I was worried that the film may not be able to reach the expectations I had manifested in my mind, however, this was certainly not the case. I loved every second of this film and have watched it many times since.
The story is based around a Sicilian family leaving in America. They are part of the 5 families which have controlled organised crime for years. However, now something has changed and one of the families is not happy and wants more power. Don Vito Corleone, played by Marlon Brando, is the father of the Corleone family and Godfather to many more followers. Marlon Brando plays this role exceptionally well and was rewarded for his performance with many awards and accolades, and rightly so. His performance as an all powerful mobster was great.
However, Marlon Brando, although the lead in the family, was not the lead in the film. This role went to a young Al Pacino. His performance ear-marked him as an exceptional talent who is still going strong today. He played the son of The Godfather, Michael Corleone. Michael was not really into the family business, he had been away at war at the start of the film. When he returned he didn’t wish to follow the family business. However, as it turned out, he really had no choice. When his father, Don Vito was shot it was up to ‘Mikey’ to exert revenge. As a result of his actions Michael had to spend many years hidden away in Italy for his own safety. However, when his life is threatened in Italy, his new wife is murdered and his brother is also murdered, Michael has to return.
This film had everything great acting clever plots and story-lines, as well as action and murders. For anyone who is an avid fan of crime films this is a must see. However, this isn’t just for those viewers who love a bit of violence. The acting performances and twisting plots really make this a great film to watch. This film is some 3 ½ hours long so you will need to be sitting comfortably. Make sure you have all your snacks and refreshments at a place you can easily get to without missing any of the film. It is a great and gripping film and one you will watch over and over again. A great film and a definite must see.