Thomas 🤟🏼’s review published on Letterboxd:
Luca Brasi held a gun to his head, and my father assured him that either his brains -- or his signature -- would be on the contract. That's a true story. That's my family, Kay. It's not me.
I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have trouble following the plot at some points (too many names), but the film’s atmosphere and its incredible performances made for an engrossing experience. Marlon Brando effortlessly sets the tone for the film right away with his cotton stuffed jaw and the rest of the cast follows suit. The hyper masculine energy present throughout the entire film encapsulates the mob mentality that drives the rival families, whether it be to success or to untimely death. The film’s storytelling is methodical, much like Vito and Michael and unlike Sonny, with twists and turns that are sure to keep you on your toes.
Perhaps the best part of the film is Michael Corleone’s descent into darkness. From war hero to head of the Corleone family, Michael’s character arc brings the film full circle and is a clear influence on several characters in films that succeeded this one. Al Pacino’s turn as the Don is menacing and I can only imagine how fantastic his performance will continue to be in the sequel. Though Brando and Pacino give the film’s best performances, I also really enjoyed James Caan and Robert Duvall as Sonny and Tom Hagen respectfully. Though it goes without saying, it isn’t hard to see why this film is so highly regarded. I should be sleeping with the fishes for how long it’s taken me to see it.
