The Godfather Part II (1974), Director: Francis Ford Coppola, rated R for violence, language

Sicily 1912. Little Italy, New York 1915. Las Vegas 1958. Cuba 1959. Washington 1962.
Miami 1972. The rise and fall of the Corleone empire.

Starring: Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, Robert Duvall, Diane Keaton, John Cazale, Talia Shire, Lee Strasberg, G. D. Spradlin, Richard Bright

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ - perfect

"My father taught me many things here - he taught me in this room. He taught me: Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer." – Michael Corleone

Why watch this? This film gives us Don's origin story, and Michael's bloody rise to power.

Plot Summary: There are two interwoven narratives: one follows Michael Corleone in the late 1950s as he expands his family's criminal enterprise, and the other depicts his father Vito's youth and rise to power in New York City in the early 20th century. The film explores the themes of power, loyalty, and betrayal within the context of organized crime and the Corleone family. Both Vito and Michael navigate a dangerous world where they are forced to make difficult decisions that impact their families and the people around them.

Dad's Preview: This sequel, in my opinion, out-paces the original. It covers more ground and gives us the history we need regarding Don Corleone's early days in the slums of New York City. Michael's reign is also fleshed out as head of the family. We gasp as he ruthlessly has his enemies killed. He wisely trusts no one, and will maintain the family's position of power. The film won Oscars for Best Picture, Director and Supporting Actor (De Niro). I personally love the performance by John Cazale as Fredo, Michael's doomed older brother.

The Coppola Company; Paramount Pictures