A deep and thought provoking film

Rating: 10/10 (13 May 2002)

I must admit it wasn't until the second time I saw this film I realised just how flawless it really is.
However, what really struck me the second time was just how psychologically deep the movie really is, particularly in respect to the number of symbolic moments used throughout.
For instance, note the turning points in the film following Michaels visit to the hospital. Whilst standing vigil with a nervous (!) friend of his fathers on the hospital steps he lights the other man's cigarette. He seems to be taken back either by just how relaxed HE is or possibly something more deeper comparing the opening/closing of the lighter to the motion made by the trigger of a gun.
Also note a moment shortly after this, following a punch he receives from a corrupt policeman, leaving him with a swollen jaw. Michael Corleone sits amongst family and friends plotting the murder of two threats to the family business. He is calm and calculated in his plotting, and even physically resembles his father (swollen jawed).
How many other levels does this film go?