Just another Godfather review
Francis Ford Coppola set a benchmark with his cinematic rendition of Mario Puzo’s novel of the same name. Whenever someone talks about “gangster” movies, this is one of the first movies that come to any critic or film lover’s mind ever since its initial release in the year 1972. The film’s charm lies in the way it has managed to incorporate certain themes from every genre, be it- action, thriller, romance or drama. Throughout the movie we see each character evolving as the plot proceeds and each scene is spun together so smoothly that the storytelling process completely enchants the viewer and keeps them gripped to their seat till the very end. The very first scene establishes the power and aura of the Godfather without even cutting to Marlon Brando’s face until the very end of the scene. Don Vito’s characteristics and principles are all captured through his dialogue with the man who wishes for Vito’s help in seeking revenge for the injustice done to his daughter. It is evident from this scene that The Godfather values — loyalty, family, and business above everything else. The character and plot development are one of the elementary reasons behind the success of the film. The character transformation of Michael is the most notable part of the movie. The viewer can pinpoint the complete flip of character in the famous restaurant scene, the scene is complemented by special sound effects that help to build up the suspense of the scene as Michael is on the cusp of finally entering the dark side of his family’s business. One can see the tension building up in the scene as one hears the loud whistle of the train flooding in as Michael is calculating his next move. Many cinematic tricks have been used to make the anticipation of the next scene stronger, one of such instances can be noted in the market scene when Vito is buying fruits himself and has his back towards the camera. The angling of the camera and the background sound prepares the viewers enough to let the reality of Don Vito’s assassination attempt sink in. The baptism scene where Michael is taking an oath in church while the camera is constantly switched between the violence being committed on the family’s behalf and the church scene was rather a bold one. It perfectly combines socio-religious activities with the mainstream. All the themes and attributes of the movie have been perfectly blended to produce a cinematic masterpiece.
