Grand, yet underrated conclusion to a magnificent saga

Rating: 8/10 (23 October 2000)

You might call this film redundant, after what the second part showed us in the end, but then, I guess, you'd also have to call the second part redundant, because the developments in "The Godfather Part II" were already alluded to at the end of the original. Therefore, Part III isn't bad at all.
It's not quite as successful as the first two, but that's simply because, throughout the movie, we get a sense of déja vu: "I've seen that before!" And you did, alright... But it still works, that formula of blood and gore, family traditions, shady meetings behind closed doors, politics and business... you know the routine. It's captivating, thrilling and suspenseful throughout, especially the opera sequence at the end, which can definitely measure up to the legendary baptism scene in the original. This is as good as directing gets. Period.
Sure, there are a few weak points in this film, one of which is Sofia Coppola, who simply can't carry the weight of the part she's given. But well, that's what happens when you cast your daughter (who happens to be a mediocre actress) in your movies. Ask Aaron Spelling!
Al Pacino shines as always in the part of his life, as does Diane Keaton, and several others. I would've wished for someone else than Andy Garcia, who's nothing like Pacino in the original, to play Vincent, but it's an OK choice, though.
Especially beautiful about this third part is that now the whole Corleone saga comes full circle with Michael's realization that crime just isn't the way to protect a family. The same thing his father realized before he chose Michael, his calmest, most considerate son, as his successor. Both learned their lesson the hard way and entrusted their empire to someone who'll most likely destroy it in the long run. Even Michael's final scene mirrors Vito's exit in the original.
Overall, a very fine film that, although not exactly in the league of its predecessors, is severely underrated and makes for a satisfying conclusion to the saga.
9 out of 10.