The Godfather Part II is a 1974 American crime film directed by Francis Ford Coppola and produced by Albert S. Ruddy, based on Mario Puzo's best-selling 1969 novel of the same name. The film stars Al Pacino, Robert Duvall, Diane Keaton, Robert De Niro, Talia Shire, Morgana King, John Cazale and Michael V. Gazzo. It is the second installment in The Godfather trilogy.
This film tells two parallel stories: one following Michael Corleone (Pacino), the new head of the Corleone crime family, as he attempts to expand the family's business and political influence; the other chronicles the early life and career of his father, Vito Corleone (De Niro), as he rises from poverty to become one of the most powerful men in America.
The Godfather Part II is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential films of all time. It was nominated for eleven Academy Awards and won six, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Supporting Actor for De Niro, and Best Adapted Screenplay for Puzo and Coppola. The film was also a box office success, grossing over $47.5 million worldwide against a budget of $11 million.
Plot Summary:
Michael Corleone's Story (Sequel):
The film picks up the story of Michael Corleone, now the head of the Corleone crime family. Michael is consolidating power and expanding the family's influence, particularly in Las Vegas and Cuba.
Michael faces internal and external threats, including betrayal from within his family and conflicts with rival gangsters. The film explores the consequences of Michael's ruthless approach to maintaining power.
- Vito Corleone's Story (Prequel):
Flashbacks reveal the early life of Vito Corleone in Sicily and his immigration to the United States. Young Vito becomes involved in organized crime to seek revenge for the murder of his family.
The prequel shows Vito's rise to power in the criminal underworld of New York City. It explores the formation of the Corleone family and the events that shaped Vito into the powerful figure he becomes.
- Parallel Narratives:
The film alternates between the two timelines, drawing parallels between the rise of Vito and the challenges faced by Michael. The audience sees how the actions and decisions of each generation impact the family's legacy.
Themes:
The Godfather Part II delves into themes of power, corruption, family, and the cyclical nature of violence. It explores the consequences of choices made by individuals and their impact on future generations.
- Conclusion:
The film culminates in a powerful and dramatic conclusion that brings both storylines together. Michael faces the consequences of his actions, and the film reflects on the cost of power and the complexities of family relationships.
Trailer
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Cast
- Al Pacino as Michael Corleone
- Robert Duvall as Tom Hagen
- Diane Keaton as Kay Adams-Corleone
- Robert De Niro as Vito Corleone
- Oreste Baldini as young Vito Corleone
- John Cazale as Fredo Corleone
- Talia Shire as Connie Corleone
- Lee Strasberg as Hyman Roth
- Michael V. Gazzo as Frank Pentangeli
- G. D. Spradlin as Senator Pat Geary
- Richard Bright as Al Neri
- Gastone Moschin as Don Fanucci
- Tom Rosqui as Rocco Lampone
- Bruno Kirby as young Peter Clemenza
- Frank Sivero as Genco Abbandando
- Morgana King as Mama Carmela Corleone
- Francesca De Sapio as young Carmela Corleone
- Marianna Hill as Deanna Corleone
- Leopoldo Trieste as Signor Roberto
- Dominic Chianese as Johnny Ola
- Amerigo Tot as Michael's bodyguard
- Troy Donahue as Merle Johnson
- Joe Spinell as Willi Cicci
- Abe Vigoda as Salvatore Tessio
- John Aprea as young Tessio
- Harry Dean Stanton as an F.B.I. agent
- Danny Aiello as Tony Rosato
- James Caan as Sonny Corleone
- Gianni Russo as Carlo Rizzi
Director: Francis Ford Coppola
Writers: Francis Ford Coppola | Mario Puzo
Box Office Gross: $47,961,919
Distributer: Paramount Pictures
Release Date: December 12, 1974