joeelsey14 🎬’s review published on Letterboxd:
The Godfather, for me, is the definition of perfection in film. I genuinely believe that no matter how much time passes, this movie will always stand above the rest. It’s not just about the story of the Corleone crime family! It’s about the depth, the intricacy, and the way it all comes together so seamlessly. From the moment it starts to the final shot, I can’t help but think that this is truly the greatest movie ever made.
What really hits me about ‘The Godfather’ is how it intertwines power, family, and the sacrifices that come with both. Marlon Brando’s portrayal of Vito Corleone blew me away. Every time I watch him, I’m reminded why he’s considered one of the best actors of all time. He’s terrifying yet honorable, and that balance makes his character unforgettable. Brando’s performance is what keeps everything grounded, serving as a constant reminder of the values Vito lives by in a world full of crime.
I can’t get over how stunning the film looks either. The cinematography, especially the way Gordon Willis used shadows, really adds to the intensity. There’s this darkness that hovers over everything, which makes sense given the moral grayness of the characters. I always think back to that opening scene in Vito’s office during the wedding. It’s like a perfect snapshot of the film as a whole, where joy and darkness meet. Willis’s use of light and shadow just pulls me into the Corleones' world, and I love every second of it.
The cast is something I could go on about forever. Al Pacino’s transformation as Michael is something I think about often. It’s just such a gradual yet powerful change, and by the end, I’m always left speechless. But it’s not just Pacino. James Caan, Robert Duvall, Diane Keaton; They all bring something special. Every single actor adds layers to the story, and that’s what makes the film feel so complete.
And then there’s the music. Nino Rota’s score is unforgettable. The moment that theme starts playing, I’m immediately transported into the world of ‘The Godfather.’ The music feels like a character in its own right, and it amplifies everything! The tension, the emotion, the drama. Even after the movie ends, I can still hear that theme playing in my head. It sticks with you long after the credits roll 🤣
What really gets me is how the movie balances these high-stakes, dramatic moments with the quieter, more personal ones. I find myself completely wrapped up in the characters' inner worlds, where everything is complicated and nothing is straightforward. The movie makes me question morality and power in ways that few films do. It’s not just about crime! It’s about the cost of control, and that’s what gives it its lasting impact.
Coppola’s direction is another thing that stands out to me. Every scene feels so deliberate, so packed with meaning, that I notice something new every time I watch it. It’s like a tragedy in the purest sense, with betrayal and loyalty driving everything forward. I can see how much care Coppola put into every detail, and that’s why the film hits so hard emotionally.
When I think of ‘The Godfather’, I can’t help but feel like it’s more than just a film. It’s a phenomenon that has shaped cinema in ways I can’t even begin to measure. The performances, the direction, the storytelling! It all comes together to create something that’s truly timeless. It’s a film I’ll always come back to. Just incredible! 6/5!