The greatest film ever made next to the sequel.

Rating: 10/10 (16 February 2000)

Much of my male wisdom and philosophy on life is derived from THE GODFATHER. It is one of the most powerful, poetic, dramatic, stories in history, elevated from pulp to high art by a brilliant ensemble cast, mythical direction and a riveting script. Brando is forever enshrined by his performance as Don Vito head of the powerful Corleone crime family. Al Pacino stars in his breakthrough role as the Don's son Michael, who is ironically transplanted from war hero to mafia chief during a pivotal existential murder scene. It is a comment on the fallibility of the American dream. How every good boy has the capacity for bad. Every character resonates with authenticity. Every subplot relates back to the theme of redemption through dedication to family. THE GODFATHER above all raises moral questions about how far one should go for their family. It is a tribute to an age long before organized crime had been washed away by drugs and rock and roll. When loyalty was ensured through family connections, and the power of the mafia was as strong as the national government. A film that is truly epic in scope, and all encompassing in wisdom. A masterpiece.