The Godfather: Part II (1974) Movie Review

Godfather Part II Review

The Godfather: Part II is widely considered to be one of the greatest sequels ever made, and is often ranked as one of the greatest films of all time. Directed by Francis Ford Coppola, the film is a continuation of the story of the Corleone crime family, with the first half of the film depicting the early life of Vito Corleone (played by Robert De Niro), and the second half following the story of his son, Michael (played by Al Pacino). The film is characterized by its powerful performances, intricate storytelling, and stunning cinematography. It won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. If you are a fan of the first film and enjoy epic crime dramas, The Godfather: Part II is a must-watch.

Story of the Movie

The Godfather: Part II is a continuation of the story of the Corleone crime family, following the events of the first film, The Godfather. The story is divided into two parts, with the first half of the film depicting the early life of Vito Corleone (played by Robert De Niro) and his rise to power in New York City’s Little Italy neighborhood. This section of the film explores Vito’s past and how he became the powerful patriarch of the Corleone family. The second half of the film picks up where the first film left off, following Michael Corleone (played by Al Pacino) as he consolidates his power and expands the family’s criminal empire. This section of the film deals with the themes of power, corruption, and the price of loyalty, as Michael struggles to maintain control of the family and keep his enemies at bay.

Top Cast

The Godfather: Part II features an all-star cast, including:

*Al Pacino as Michael Corleone: The head of the Corleone crime family, who is struggling to maintain control of the family and expand their criminal empire.

*Robert De Niro as Vito Corleone: Michael’s father, and the patriarch of the Corleone family. This film explores Vito’s early life and rise to power in New York City’s Little Italy neighborhood.

*Robert Duvall as Tom Hagen: Michael’s trusted consigliere and legal advisor.

*Diane Keaton as Kay Adams-Corleone: Michael’s wife, who becomes increasingly disillusioned with her husband’s criminal activities.

*Talia Shire as Connie Corleone: Michael’s sister and Vito’s daughter.

*John Cazale as Fredo Corleone: Michael’s older brother.

*Lee Strasberg as Hyman Roth: A powerful and influential figure in the world of organized crime.

*Michael V. Gazzo as Frank Pentangeli: A rival gangster and associate of Michael’s.

*G.D. Spradlin as Senator Pat Geary: A corrupt and ambitious politician who becomes embroiled in the Corleone family’s affairs.

*Troy Donahue as Merle Johnson: A young man who befriends Vito Corleone in his early days in New York City.

The cast also includes other notable actors, such as Francesca De Sapio as Vito’s mother, Morpheus Rouffaer, and Frank Sivero as young Genco Abbandando.

Morel of the Movie

The Godfather: Part II explores several themes that were also present in the first film, such as the nature of power, the corrupting influence of wealth and success, and the cost of loyalty and family. The film also delves deeper into the story of the Corleone family, exploring their rise to power and the personal and professional struggles of its members.

One of the main themes of the film is the idea of the “American Dream” and the cost of achieving it. The film shows how Vito Corleone, a poor immigrant, was able to rise to power and success through his involvement in organized crime, but at the cost of his morality and his relationships with his family. Similarly, Michael Corleone, despite his wealth and power, is unable to find true happiness and fulfillment, as his criminal activities continue to tear his family apart.

Another theme is the idea of power and the corrupting influence it can have. The film explores how the Corleones’ rise to power leads to their moral decay and the destruction of their relationships. It also shows how power can be fleeting, as enemies and rivals constantly challenge their position.

The film also deals with the themes of family and loyalty. The Corleones are a close-knit family, but their criminal activities put a strain on their relationships, and they are forced to make difficult decisions that put them at odds with one another. The idea of loyalty and betrayal is also explored, as Michael must deal with those who are loyal to him and those who are not.

Overall, The Godfather: Part II is a powerful and thought-provoking film that delves deeper into the story of the Corleone family, explores themes of power, corruption, and the cost of achieving the American Dream.