Top 10 List (All-Time Faves): 1. The Godfather (1972)

1. The Godfather (1972)

At long last, my number one favourite film of all-time - Francis Ford Coppola's 1972 true masterpiece, The Godfather. Some of you might think that this is not a very inspired choice and that much of what I am going to say here can be read on countless other lists about the majesty of this film, but hot-damn! I don't care - THIS FILM IS PERFECT.

Based on Mario Puzo's novel of the same name, The Godfather is the sprawling tale of the Corleone Italian crime family operating in post-WWII New York. It is an intimate family drama about the transition of power and leadership within the family as the adult children must come to terms with the family's patriarch and don, Vito Corleone, being forced to step down from his role as head of the family and business. The film is equally a thrilling time-piece about the violent and tense operations and power struggles among and within the Italian mafia families in mid-20th century New York.

You know a film is one of the great ones when it boasts a lengthy three-hour run-time, and yet, when its credits begin to roll you only want more. (Luckily, in the case of The Godfather there is Part II, which you can immediately turn to. It is an equally excellent film and there are many who even claim it as their preferred chapter.)

There is not a single aspect of The Godfather that I cannot boast about. As I am now annoyingly stating, the film is in every way perfect. Coppola, through a script he co-wrote with Puzo, throws us into the intimate and gripping world of the Corleones. The film begins with the line "I believe in America" and, appropriately, the film is very much about the attainment of the American Dream ideal being sought by Italian-American tight-knight families through the operation of organized crime in post-war, disenfranchised America. Coppola introduces us slowly to the state of the Corleone family consisting of members as different from one to the other as they come, however, it quickly becomes apparent that the family is founded upon closeness, trust and love. In that, the cast brought together to form this family is one of the finest of any film. (The film received a remarkable four acting award Oscar nominations.)

The arc that Michael takes through the film (and through the trilogy) is perfectly encapsulated through a riveting performance by a young Al Pacino; the brash and impulsive Sonny, played by James Caan, often contrasted by level-headed family consigliere, Tom Hagen, played by Robert Duvall, the impuissant and opportunistic Fredo, played by John Cazale, oft-maltreated sister, Connie, played by Talia Shire, and Michael's wife and newcomer to the family, Kay, played by Diane Keaton. The true star, as most know, is Vito Corelone, played by Marlon Brando, in one of the greatest and most iconic performances of all-time. There is no doubt that Brando steals every scene he is in and it is one of the reasons why Part I is my favourite as I feel that Part II is missing a critical aspect without the elderly Vito in it. For anyone who can appreciate an utterly captivating performance, Brando's here (for which he rightfully won Best Actor, but refused to accept (it's a long story...)) is a must-see.

On top of all that has been stated, The Godfather is wonderfully shot by cinematographer, Gordon Willis. There is a copper hue to many of the scenes that helps to transport the audience to the vintage and gritty time period the film is set in. The film's sweeping score by Nino Rota is one instantly recognizable - the main trumpet theme lead into the main waltz is nostalgic to say the least.

It is no surprise at all that The Godfather won Best Picture as well as Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Actor (as mentioned) and receipt of an additional eight other Academy Award nominations. This is a film that should be seen by everyone no matter who you are. Whether you like crime or family dramas, excellent acting, writing, or, if you have lived under a rock for the past fifty years, I implore you to go out and watch The Godfather - then go and watch it again, and then watch Part II, and then maybe watch them all over again - it's that good! As many know, this is the one film that has always been cemented as my all-time favourite and one that I also contend is, in fact, the greatest film of all-time. And now that you have (maybe) finished reading all of this, go out and start watching The Godfather!