Now Viewing: The_GodfatherTag type: Copyright Tag refers to images referencing this iconic American crime drama franchise. It began as a novel written by Mario Puzo that was released on March 10, 1969. The novel was a New York Times Best Seller and sold 2 million copies within 2 years, paving the way for a film adaptation that became even more iconic. The films' cast and crew consisted almost entirely of Italian-Americans. They were directed by Francis Ford Coppola and written by Puzo. They star Al Pacino as protagonist Michael Corleone with the first film debuting on March 14, 1972. Their soundtracks were composed by Nino Rota. The series tells the story of the Corleone Mafia family, one of the most powerful crime families in America. It is headed by Don Vito Corleone, an Italian immigrant who is ruthless to his enemies, but is a firm believer in loyalty and in preserving one's family and friends. All of the male members of the Corleone family are heavily involved in its criminal activity except for Michael Corlone, but Vito has no hard feelings towards Michael and actually favors him, believing that he has the best chance out of anyone to earn a legitimate life/career in America. The Corleone family is threatened after Vito rejects an investment in narcotics causing a rival crime family to retaliate violently and culminating in an assassination attempt on Vito. Vito survives, but is in no condition to lead the Corleones. This, as well as other attacks on the Corleone family, drive the former straight arrow Michael to take the mantle of the head of the Corleone family. Michael brings his intelligence and unique talents to his new role as Don, but as he settles into the new position, he finds his humanity gradually decaying and has increasing difficulty in preserving the family bonds that his father championed . . . The film adaptation generally follows the main story of the original novel with some subplots removed, but as the film series goes on, it begins incorporating more material that is unique to the movies to the point that its third film is an entirely original story. The series is known for its exceptionally large scope for a crime drama with a narrative that is spread across multiple decades, touching on many aspects of American history, and featuring a large cast of characters. This results in a roughly 3 hour run time for each film installment. The series is one of the most iconic and influential Mafia crime dramas. Many common perceptions ideas about Italian American culture and criminals were either created by or popularized by the series, and much of its dialogue became common English expressions in America. The films won numerous awards and successful at the box office and even won admirers amongst real life Mafia members who adopted some of the Corleone family's tenets/mannerisms. The films launched the careers of many of its actors, such as star Al Pacino and Robert De Niro, both of whom would become famous for frequently starring in gritty crime dramas. The first film was also director Coppola's breakthrough and was the start of his golden streak that lasted throughout the rest of the 1970s. Other Wiki Information Last updated: 03/29/21 10:28 AM by jojosstand This entry is not locked and you can edit it as you see fit. |
     
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