The Godfather
Film Overview
Release Date
March 24, 1972
Director
Francis Ford Coppola
Screenplay
Mario Puzo, Francis Ford Coppola
Running Time
175 minutes
Box Office
$250+ Million (Adjusted)
Rating
9.2
Synopsis
The Godfather tells the story of the Corleone family, particularly the aging patriarch Vito Corleone and his youngest son Michael. When Vito is brutally attacked, power struggles and outside threats force Michael to protect his family, leading to his transformation into the ruthless new head of the family business.
The film spans from the 1940s through the early 1950s, chronicling the family's rise to power during turbulent times in organized crime. Through it all, the central theme remains that of family loyalty and the moral compromises that come with power.
Historical Impact
The Godfather revolutionized cinema. It was nominated for 11 Academy Awards and won 3, including Best Picture, Best Actor (Marlon Brando), and Best Adapted Screenplay.
The film established new standards for storytelling, cinematography, and acting. It elevated the gangster genre from simple crime stories to complex explorations of power, family, and morality.
Its influence on cinema cannot be overstated—from its innovative narrative structure to its iconic scenes and quotes that have become woven into popular culture.
Awards & Recognition
- •Academy Award for Best Picture (1973)
- •Academy Award for Best Director - Francis Ford Coppola
- •Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay
- •BAFTA Award for Best Film
- •Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture - Drama
- •AFI's 100 Years... 100 Movies: Ranked #2