The Godfather Part II

Rating: 5+/5

Before making the decision to watch all of the Academy Award Best Picture winning films, there were some movies on that list that I'd never seen, but knew a fair amount about. When it came to The Godfather movies, I'd seen clips and heard the first installment quoted many times, I'd been told by many that the second was the best of the three, and that the third was the worst. Now, I'm still yet to see the third Godfather, but I can wholeheartedly say that everything I'd been told about the second Godfather being the best was absolutely true.

The first Godfather movie was incredible. It's an impeccable classic and its indelible mark upon cinema history is undeniable. That being said, I like many others, found the second to be even more substantial. I'm embarrassed to say it took me so long to finally see this movie, but I'm immensely glad I did. I'm not usually one to watch a movie that's part of a series out of order, but I can say without a shadow of a doubt that for future viewings, I will be doing that in this case. As much as I like the first Godfather, I know I'll be going back to watch Part II before I revisit Part I. This movie kept me on the edge of my seat with its intensity, but also had me admiring the breathtaking cinematography, even in scenes involving great violence. It's truly masterful. It's another example of a film whose runtime spans more than three hours, but feels as if it takes no time at all to get to the end. There isn't an ounce of wasted screen time.

I'm far from an expert on film, just someone who has always had a love for the movies. I know there are people who are much more qualified to discuss the impact and skill of a movie as influential as this, so really everything I write here is just to voice my humble novice opinions, so I'll keep this review short and just say that The Godfather Part II is a classic for a reason, and I greatly look forward to watching it again someday soon so I can watch it and again be in awe of all the incredible talent that is found within this masterpiece.

1975 Best Picture Winner - The Godfather Part II

1975 Best Actor in a Supporting Role Winner - Robert De Niro

1975 Best Director Winner - Francis Ford Coppola

1975 Best Writing, Screenplay Adapted From Other Material Winners - Francis Ford Coppola & Mario Puzo

1975 Best Art Direction - Set Direction Winners - Dean Tavoularis, Angelo P. Graham & George R. Nelson

1975 Best Music, Original Dramatic Score Winners - Nino Rota & Carmine Coppola