An Opera on Screen

Rating: 10/10 (22 December 2000)

Along with it's sequel, Godfather II, this movie is what American movies should aspire to. Great acting, great story line. The power of the family, the immigrants' rise to glory, the failures of society, the paradox of religion and violence woven together to form the perfect movie. The characters are composites of real men and women in history. The scenes fictionalize real historical events. The Don's granting wishes to his neighbors remind you of Marranzano's despotic rule in the early 30's. The shooting in the restaurant mirrors Luciano's assassination of Masseria. Moe Green's execution is really Bugsy Segal's. The climax is the night of the Sicilian Vespers. This film is a classic. Puzo's work is wonderful and Coppola's vision is perfect.