The Godfather is a monumental picture that has stood the test of time in terms of artistry and relevance. The way we look at family, crime, and corruption is so ingrained into our society thanks to this classic. Director Francis Ford Coppola brings this mafia saga to life so seamlessly and with such beauty it should almost be a crime. Thanks to cinematographer Gordon Willis the look of this film will forever be timeless. The orange haze that covers most of this film, the on location filming, a breathtaking use of shadows all point to the genius of the late Willis. The haunting notes composed by Nino Rota will forever be a staple in American cinema.
I finally got to see this movie on the big screen which is how it was meant to be seen. Pushing 3 hours long with no break this film could cause some to drift off. But not me! Every line of dialogue is so meticulously chosen by Puzo and Coppola to keep your interest. The story never slumps, as soon as one arc completes another one is pulling you into it's embrace. The story is packed with decades worth of history and by the end of the film you know everyone on a personal level. This time around the wedding scene which I was never particularly fond of blew me away. So many rich character moments inhabit Connie and Carlos wedding with very little dialogue. We establish Michael wishing to be far away from the business, the subtle power of Don Corleone, Sonny's impulsive behavior, even Fredo has his moment. On the big screen that scene shines with perfection and I realized I was witnessing brilliance.
This movie of course would be nothing without the perfect cast we have. Even without seeing the movie everyone knows the characters. Marlon Brando who seems like he is a caricature of a Mob Boss is actually brilliant on so many levels. He never let's up the act that's why we believe him. His iconic voice, the crazy hair, that damn cat all point to a brilliant actor in complete control. Al Pacino is much more subtle to his approach of Michael Corleone never going off the rails in his performance. His eye's let the audience in on what is going on in his calculating mind. This is best exemplified in the assassination of Sollozzo and McCluskey. As his anxiety rises so do that of the audience. I could go on forever discussing why each performance in this film is truly brilliant. Caan, Cazale, Duvall, Shire, Vigoda, Keaton, Lettieri, Castellano all of them are brilliant and allow us to delve into their deep characters.
I fell in love with The Godfather all over again today. A movie like this one comes out once in a blue moon. I'm ecstatic that I experienced it in my lifetime.