These opening and closing scenes show us the transition of power and honor, from father to son. We see the importance of religion and tradition in the lives of these young Americans, as well as the depths of their hypocrisy. Michael is a new kind of leader, though. One with a vision beyond the violence, a vision of a better future. Despite their flaws, or perhaps because of them, they are a quintessentially American family.
Every element is as perfect as can be.
I return to it once a year and it never disappoints me. I could not recommend it to you more highly.