Is there anyone who hasn’t watched the legendary classic yet? Movies like “The Godfather” inspire many generations and even creators in different sectors, from cinematography to iGaming. Did you know that sites like IceCasino have movie-themed slot machines? One of the most popular among all movie-themed slots is, of course, The Godfather.
Its popularity is no wonder because the movie itself is a timeless masterpiece. How does it remain at the top of all classics? What is in the film that catapulted it as the king of all crime drama?
The Story is Relatable
While “The Godfather” is a crime story, it explores the story of a family and their power struggle. Because of this, people can relate to the plot even if they are not criminals. The movie follows the journey of a son to become the head of the family. In any family outside of crime, the same thing happens. There is one brother or sister who will take over the family’s business.
Then, there is also the theme of how one person transforms from good to evil. In “The Godfather,” Al Pacino’s character is a military man. Supposedly, a man like that should be fighting for justice and the law. However, circumstances force him to take the evil side because he wants to protect his family.
It also explores themes of having enemies. All people, at one point or another, will have enemies. This story arc allows the audience to relate the movie to their personal lives.
Acting and Directing Are Superb
The Godfather has an ensemble cast led by Marlon Brando and Al Pacino. One cannot deny that Marlon Brando’s Vito Corleone is stamped in the hearts of moviegoers as inspirational and iconic.
Then, there is Al Pacino’s portrayal of Michael Corleone, who perfectly shows the love of a son for his father. People who have seen the movie witnessed how Michael transformed from a patriotic soldier into a vicious leader.
The direction is also beyond question. Francis Ford Coppola ensured that the build-up of the story was at the right pace. It is not rushed, and it is not too slow either. Then, there are scenes that people will always remember.
Here are some of the best scenes in The Godfather:
- The wedding scene at the beginning of the movie.
- The scene where Luca Brasi was speaking to Vito Corleone.
- The gunning down of Sonny.
- The baptism of Michael and the murders committed during that.
Many of these scenes are haunting and exciting, keeping the audience gripped in their seats. One particular moment that viewers will remember is the scene outside the hospital where Michael was with the baker and pretended they had guns.
The Godfather Is Timeless
How come “The Godfather” is still popular? It is because the main theme, which is organized crime, still exists today.
The film also has some lines that people remember. Some of these quotes are:
- I’m gonna make him an offer he can’t refuse.
- Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer.
- A man who doesn’t spend time with his family can never be a real man.
- Leave the gun. Take the cannoli.
- It’s not personal, Sonny. It’s strictly business.
Of all these, it is probably the first one that is most chilling. Today, some of these have become a meme. After 50 years, there are still YouTubers and TikTokers who impersonate Michael Corleone.
The Godfather Is an Inspiration for Other Films
The Godfather’s success spurred the growth of the crime cinema. Many movies drew inspiration from it.
Here are some examples:
- Scarface – another iconic film and role for Al Pacino; it is about a man’s rise to power in the crime underworld.
- Goodfellas – a tale of gangster lifestyle that explores why crime attracts people.
- Donnie Brasco – a story based on the life of an undercover FBI agent. This story tells us how the FBI penetrated organized crime and brought them down. It also gives more context to the principle of loyalty in the mob.
- American Gangster – a crime film that focuses on the Harlem area. It is about a drug kingpin who experiences moral issues.
Anyone today who has not seen “The Godfather” will be amiss if they do not watch it. All these popular movies about organized crime took inspiration from the original. However, some critics accuse these films of romanticizing crime. While that perspective is valid, one should also keep in mind that these stories are merely reflections of reality.
It has been over 50 years since the release of this all-time classic, and yet it still awes audiences, both new and old-time fans. “The Godfather” is truly a remarkable film that explores ambition, power, and themes that people can relate to. Overall, it will remain a towering achievement in the history of cinema. It will stay in its top spot as the yardstick of quality in filmmaking!
