Review of The Godfather Part II (1974) by Ross P — 25 Jul 2012

The Godfather Part II easily matches it's predecessor and even out-shines it in terms of narrative, character development and direction. Coppola really stepped up with his camera movement, his use of dolly shots work superbly to showcase the set-designs. These movements allow us to appreciate how much time and effort was put into the production.

In the novel and The Godfather Part I, we know Michael as a sincere and compassionate man. It comes as a shock to see him transform into a man of cruelty. He is as cunning as father and maybe as reasonable (the qualities that made him the most powerful boss in the criminal underworld) but his obsession with revenge is ultimately his downfall. Michael is easily corrupted. We know that his father would never disrespect his wife or family whereas Michael's capacity to love depletes and he strikes his wife and kills his brother. He is unable to forgive and all of his actions are driven by malice. It's upsetting to see a character become something so menacing after he had been so pure.

The Godfather Part II is easily the greatest sequel of all-time and it is Mario Puzo's achievement. He stayed true to his way and evolved his characters, some for better, some for worse.

Robert De Niro shows real understanding his role. He is the perfect Vito Corleone: sly and patient. Lee Strasberg also demonstrates his method acting abilities well.

I prefer this film over the first because of how provocative it is. It's upsetting seeing Michael become so diabolical (even the way he treats Tom Hagen is unsavoury), and of course the story. It's never predictable and that's what I appreciate most in a film.