The Godfather Legacy

The Godfather Legacy (2012)

** 1/2 (out of 4)

This documentary lets viewers know that THE GODFATHER was a masterpiece and that THE GODFATHER PART II was considered even better by many. This documentary then informs us that THE GODFATHER PART III wasn't enjoyed by too many fans. There are some good moments scattered throughout this documentary but sadly by the time it's over the viewer realizes that we're still without a definitive look at the series. Francis Ford Coppola, Al Pacino, James Caan, Talia Shire and a few others from the production of the trilogy are interviewed and we basically get the same stories that we've been hearing the past forty years. The studio didn't want Brando. The studio and others wanted Caan to play the Michael role. Coppola was certain the film would be a flop. So on and so on. The added "touch" this documentary brings is that we've got ex Mafia members, mob experts, psychiatrists and other experts talking about the impact of the films. There are really two different types of films here and sadly they really don't mix all that well. The stories from the director and cast are fun to hear even if you're already familiar with them. The problem is that this can't be a definitive look at the series because so much go undiscussed and there are so many people like DeNiro, Duvall and Keaton who are still with us but not interviewed. As far as the other stuff goes, I really don't need a doctor telling me what characters are thinking. I'm no doctor and I can figure this out on my own. THE GODFATHER LEGACY is still worth viewing if you're a fan of the series but you do have to wonder why we're still waiting for a great look at the series. At least both Coppola and Pacino finally give their honest opinions on the third film.

FILMS ABOUT FILMS are a certain genre that has long been with us. Some are done as a sort of promotional tool, finished and released before the initial run of the subject film and meant to pique the public's anticipation and interest. We can think of examples of this type in RETURN TO RAINTREE COUNTY and THE MAKING OF SUPERMAN:THE MOVIE.

TODAY'S HONORED REVIEWEE does not fit into this category. Being that THE GODFATHER LEGACY was made nearly four decades after the original theatrical showing of THE GODFATHER, it must fit into another sub-genre classification.

THIS SORT OF production centers on certain very special and successful movies that have become a part of our culture. They are the sort movie that we can watch over and over and still enjoy the hell out of them! IN ANOTHER SENSE, forays into every minute aspect of a film become a sort of extended version of the movie revue column of the daily newspapers. In this case, the rampant subjectivity of personal opinion can render the film to be overly biased and, by its very nature, far less illuminating to we, the loyal fans.

IT IS OUR opinion that the production team has tactfully avoided any excesses in criticism and praise. The result is what we all crave; but so seldom realize. THE GODFATHER LEGACY is a well plotted examination of the great film series; which boldly and wisely brings interviews with those who participated in their making. They also included some expertise from the worlds of medical science and academia.

IN THE END the production is highly informative as well as being valued for its entertainment value. As an example of what we mean: This Iish Kid (the writer) never realized that Frank Pentangelli changed his testimony because he wouldn't want his brother to witness such betrayal.

BOTH SCHULTZ AND myself thought the brother from Sicily was a hostage of the Corleones. I guess I'll be an "Irisher" all my life!

While I really did enjoy the various insights by the director & actors, I disagree very much with what all their opinions were of the basic story and "what it all meant." Basically, they all see Michael as a tragic figure, cursed because he did such ""unspeakable" acts during his life.

Maybe they should actually watch their own movie, since I have a much different view -- and I've lost track of how many times I've watched the entire series ... 20? More, maybe.

Michael didn't start this war -- it was thrust upon him by Solozzo, Tattaglia, Barzini & the rest. They started this, strictly to eliminate the Corleone family for opposing Solozzo's new project, and apparently all of the Five Families were involved. They also deliberately corrupted Michael's family (both blood and business partners) to further the elimination of the Corleone Family. The murders and assassination attempts are pretty obvious to anyone who's seen the films.

These "evil acts" did not stem any inherent criminality or evil intent on Michael's part. Keep in mind that he wanted nothing to do with the family business and avoided it completely -- until the murderous machinations of the Five Families forced him to act TO PROTECT HIS FAMILY. No other motive is evident on his part, period. If he hadn't stepped in to stop the destrucion of his family, who would? Fredo? The Tooth Fairy?

Everything stems from the evil acts of others, and he just did what was necessary to save those he loved, nothing more.

Was Michael a tragic figure -- yes, obviously. But it was not his doing, and if he had NOT done what he thought necessary, give some thought as to what might have been the outcome, and whether any Corleone would have been left alive.

Enjoyable and informative but sometimes choppy. I've always enjoyed Al Pachino's work, but, as a Marine I was taken aback and somewhat offended when he said that Michael joined the Army.