RECOMMENDED. Movies. “The Godfather Trilogy.”

RECOMMENDED. Movies. “The Godfather Trilogy.” Released in 1972, 1974, and 1990 and all directed by Francis Ford Coppola, “The Godfather” is inspired by the 1969 novel of the same name by Mario Puzo. The films follow the trials of the fictional Italian American mafia Corleone family whose patriarch, Vito Corleone, rises to be a major figure in organized crime. His youngest son, Michael Corleone, becomes his successor. 

       The trilogy is heavily awarded, winning 9 out of 28 total Academy Award nominations, but there are more to the Corleone saga than the cinematic accolades. The kickass ensemble acting is an understatement. However, it is the screenplay by Mr Coppola and Mr Puzo, that kept this masterpiece set a brilliant Hollywood treasure. Mario Puzo, who passed away in 1999, also wrote the original screenplay for the 1978 “Superman” and its 1980 sequel but “The Godfather” is his true legacy. 

       Perhaps a major reason why the Corleones easily penetrated the cultural psyche is their startling contradictions. Generous and kind but wicked when turned down. Iron-willed and they mean it when they say it; palabra de honor. They can be peaceful per “gentlemanly” truce. Soft-spoken but equally loud when provoked into a rage. 

       Calculating with awesome business acumen albeit the illegal version. Good parents but won’t double think to take out fathers of children as well. Resilient and patient; well, for a time, LOL! And a sense of Catholic morality that baffles the wicked. And a searing love for family and allegiance to friendship yet when you cross them, run for your life. 🎬🎭🎬