The Godfather I vs. II: Why both films deserve the throne

The Godfather I and II, two of the most iconic films in the history of Hollywood, have been at the center of debate for years over which one tops the other.

Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather trilogy is considered a remarkable series that has inspired generations. It paved the way for filmmaking and shaped the future of films in the crime genre. Its storyline, direction, performances, casting, cinematography, and music have been celebrated throughout the years.

The series is based on Mario Puzo’s 1969 novel of the same name. The films follow the Corleone family’s rise in power, their criminal empire, and the personal and familial conflicts that come with it.

However, there is no clear answer as to which of the two films in the trilogy is better. Both are iconic and unique in their own ways.

Let us dive deeper into what makes both The Godfather I and II worthy of the throne.

What makes The Godfather II deserve the throne?

1) Fredo's character shift

In this film, we witness John Cazale’s character Fredo, the older brother of Michael, who was generally lacking power in the first film, somehow take power into his own hands. He was initially shown as a flawed, understated character.

At the beginning of the film, he serves as an assistant to the now-powerful gangster, Michael. But as the brothers’ relationship faces trials and tribulations, Fredo is revealed to be plotting against Michael. We realize that, in due course, we may have underestimated Fredo’s sinister abilities.

2) Robert De Niro

A still from 'The Godfather Part Two' | Image via @Youtube/ParamountMovies

Legendary actor Robert De Niro essayed the role of a younger Vito, as the film traces the history of the character.

De Niro successfully upheld the legacy of Marlon Brando’s portrayal of Vito and delivered an iconic performance in his own right. His work in the film has been celebrated over the years and earned him an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor.

The actor was slightly younger than the age of the character he portrayed on screen. Robert De Niro was 30 years old when he portrayed Vito, while the character at that point is meant to be in his mid-30s to early 40s.

3) Explores deeper into the world of The Godfather

The film explores deeper into the roots of the Corleone family and how Vito rises to power. That gives us a more in-depth understanding of the family’s history.

It also successfully blends with the current happenings in the family after the demise of Vito, as we see Michael’s rise as well as his internal struggles. We are able to connect the dots between the past and the current familial dynamics. As we trace the family’s journey, we also gain a contextual understanding of actual historical events.

What makes The Godfather I deserve the throne?

1) Its powerful ending

A still from 'The Godfather' | Image via @Youtube/ParamountPictures

The OG The Godfather film has a symbolic ending, which marks the character transformation of Michael, as he is revealed to be the one behind the killing of Carlo.

We can witness Michael emerge as a darker and more sinister gangster than his father Vito. Vito was ruthless as well, but the treatment of his character was softer, as he was shown to be involved with his family. In fact, Vito passed away while playing with Anthony, his grandson.

Whereas with Michael, we see that not only has he killed Carlo, but also another enemy gangster. The visuals showcase images associated with religious symbolism, reflecting Michael’s psychological transformation.

2) Its narrative style

The storytelling of the film plays a lot with the audience’s mind. A lot of unexpected things take place in the storyline, which aligns with the fragility and uncertainty that life offers.

What shall happen to the members of Vito and his family is not something we can generally see coming, and hence, it keeps the viewers at the edge of their seats.

3) Marlon Brando, that's it.

Well, The Godfather I is incomplete without the mention of celebrated veteran actor Marlon Brando’s iconic embodiment of Vito. His Oscar-winning work in this film has been studied for years in terms of his acting process and how he physically manoeuvred himself to get into the skin of the character.

At the time when Marlon Brando was cast in the film, he was not actually much favoured by the production companies. The reasons were manifold—Brando was not having the best time in his career due to a series of unsuccessful films, as well as his interpersonal clashes with people. But ultimately, Brando played the role of Vito—and the rest, as we know, is history!

Which of The Godfather films do you think deserves the throne? Let us know in the comments!