The guy who takes Vito to get the rug is the young Clemenza, the "leave the gun, take the Cannoli" guy from the first movie. The third guy who was supposed to pay Fanucci with them is Tessio, the guy who tried to betray Michael near the end of that movie.
Hyman Roth's Moe Green monologue is one of the best ever! Riveting, gripping, profound. Bonasera's opening monologue, Vito's monologue to the Five Families, and Roth's Moe Green monologue are magnificent.
Lee Strasberg plays the role of Roth. Famous in his own right, he operated a legendary school for acting. Here’s a short list of his notable students: Anne Bancroft Ellen Burstyn Montgomery Clift James Dean Robert De Niro Jane Fonda Julie Harris Dustin Hoffman Elia Kazan Marilyn Monroe Paul Newman Al Pacino Geraldine Page Frank Perry Andreas Voustinas Eli Wallach
Agreed. Because without the backbone of the first, the second loses something as a stand-alone. The invisible presence of Brando/Vito is necessary and altho a film might have been made where a dead person is merely referred to, it works better when the audience knows for a fact how strong that character was and the power and wisdom he exuded. When the film came out, it appeared more groundbreaking and daring than it might seem today. But it paved the way as well as honoring the highest quality of cinematic artistry. I think people gravitate to the second however because of its depth, seeing Vito’s backstory, and people liking De Niro’s portrayal, and the enormous strength in Pacino’s performance, and that it is a more emotional and tragic story. Also, the technical aspects were changed a bit; the dark atmosphere which the cinematographer wanted so much in the first film, was brightened somewhat, at least with more spotlights, and modern audiences prefer a brighter look. And the Keaton/Kay character becomes stronger, smarter and not as easily manipulated by Michael, so she demonstrates a more modern and “American” type of woman.
The difference between the rest of the mafia where they look to take advantage of anyone they can, Vito collects favors. He actually provides a service that people want.
No. The difference is that Vito was smart about who he exploited. He saw no reason to exhort pennies from the local store keepers when he could make thousands in other criminal enterprises. The book explains that he made tons of money selling alcohol during Prohibition. He then went into the olive business and got a monopoly by giving "an offer you cannot refuse" to any local business that sold olive oil. Anyone who dared to refuse found himself beaten up and his business wrecked. If you had what he wanted, he would take it.
@@przemekkozlowski7835 who'd he exploit? He always gave everyone a chance with a fair deal. And criminals are fair game. I don't consider them being exploited.
@@russellward4624also why are the mentioning the book when we are strictly talking about the movie and from the things it shows us that he was fair tough but fair
@@russellward4624 I mean we don't mind when criminals are exploited, but at the end of the day it's still exploitation. and Vito did look to take advantage like all the other mob bosses. _but_ he also did the favor system. He wasn't a saint, but he wasn't cruel for cruelty's sake. He tried to walk a fine line.
20:18 Steph I have never agreed with you more, Al Pacino should’ve gotten the freaking Oscar for this movie. He was outstanding in the first movie, but he gives a truly LEGENDARY performance in this film.
The actor who plays Hyman Roth is Lee Strassburg. He wasn't in a lot of movies but was on stage a lot. More importantly, he and his wife, Stella Adler led The Actors Studio in NYC, where they trained a generation of young actors in the art of Method Acting.
Stella Adler was married to Harold Clurman not Strasberg and she joined The Group Theater which Strasberg, Clurman and Cheryl Crawford founded and then she later founded The Stella Adler Conservatory of Theater. You are right about them along with Sanford Meisner training a generation of young actors, but it was Strasberg who was the teacher of 'the method.' Adler and Meisner we not. They viewed the method as a piece of the pie for Konstantin Stanislavski's training and not the totality of it. Basically, Strasberg's emphasized emotional recall (method), Adler's championed imagination and script analysis (imagining you are the character), and Meisner's focus on truthful behavior through repetition training and creating a backstory for your character that actually means something to you and connects to the story/lines so the lines are expressed and not just recited. Basically modern realistic acting is because of all of them.
One of the most romantic scenes in cinematic history to me is when Vito comes home with that pear after being fired, and his wife says "what a lovely, pear." they sit and kiss.... so good
It's my favorite scene in the trilogy. She was as appreciative of a pear as if it were expensive jewelry. Also showed her humility and lack of sense of entitlement showing he chose his wife wisely and why he is faithful to her.
Godfather 2 is two movie set in one , rise of vito and the demise of his empire by his son Michael. This is one of the best and well crafted sequel and flashback sequence in cinema . Back in forth , every décision made by Micheal is a opposition of what his father used to do . Vito built his Underworld around his family, Micheal maintain it but lose everyone who loved him
How did Michael KNOW that it was Hyman that was behind everything? Because when he is talking to him, and says that Frank "has to go".... Hyman replied with "he is small potatoes". BUT.... Frank is basically running the "day to day" operations for ALL of New York for the Corleone Family.... and someone calls him "small potatoes"? Frank is basically the NUMBER 3 in the entire operations, behind Michael and Tom..... and Hyman calls him "small potatoes"? That told Michael right away that Hyman completely intends to take out NOT just Frank, but Michael and ANYONE ELSE that is seen as being "in charge" for the Corleone organization. The "Michael sends his regards" comment was DESIGNED to make Frank think he was being betrayed, so that his LAS THOUGHTS were that his entire life was "for nothing", making his death that much more PERSONAL. It wasn't directly from Michael, but Frank THOUGHT so... which is why Frank goes to the police.
The pace of these movies is so important because it creates the dramatic tension between characters in every scene. The pauses, glances, look-aways and searing stares brings the audience into the rooms where all the action takes place so you really feel like a fly on the wall. And of course your reaction is like all of our reactions the first time we saw this movie too. Bravo ladies!
This movie is crazy to me because that's just about the same time my great-grandfather came through Ellis Island, and he was about 15. He was with a cousin, at least. These kids were just being shipped across a whole ocean to get out to somewhere else.
@18:57 'What a Shot'... I've wanted that very still of Clemenza pointing the gun as a poster for the longest time! Maybe my favourite single frame in any movie!
Google Clemenza Godfather pointing gun meme. Then click images. Go over to the image of Bruno Kirby as young Clemenza. Right click download image which will save it to your downloads or you can save it to documents. You can have that image made into large poster.
Their Sicilian dialect is uniformly great--great preparation and a really excellent dialect coach. De Niro wasn't fluent in Italian and he learned from someone who knew their business. And the clothing is right on the money. This is an extraordinary production.
Clemenza, the one who stole the rug is the same man who showed Michael how to shoot the gun to kill the cop in the restaurant in the first movie. And Tessio, the one who sat at the table with Vito and Clemenza to discuss paying off Fanucci is the same man who betrayed Michael at Vito’s funeral.
Maybe the best film of all time right here. The 3rd film isn't anywhere near as good as this, but for a 1990 gangster movie, it's actually well done. It came out the same year as Goodfellas. It's good to watch just to see how they close out the narrative.
The man who played Hyman Roth, Lee Strasberg is considered as "The Father of Method Acting" and has taught and mentored Al Pacino, Robert De Niro and Marlon Brando whom as we all know, are the lead stars of the Godfather Trilogy.
Since the Godfather 1St came out, acting schools all over the world and even today , Al Pacino's role of Michel Corleone is studied and picked apart for the brilliance that it is by students everywhere
I love how you two notice the great shots - the cinematography. I would repeatedly watch the Godfather movies in the arthouse theaters in the 90s with my friend and we always commented on the same great shots you recognize. They look even better on the big screen.
So back in the 90’s HBO actually made a cut of the first to movies into a single movie called The Godfather Saga, it also never before seen deleted scenes edited in. Unfortunately it never made the jump from VHS to DVD and it’s not available to stream in the US or most other countries. I guarantee that if that was released on blu-ray Paramount would make a mint
One of the best shots in this movie: American gangsters dividing up a "Cuba" cake while they discuss how they're going to divide up the actual country among themselves "Make sure everyone gets a piece"
How does nobody picks up on the fact that Vito hangs around with Hyman Roth, and then meets Clemenza and Tessio (from the first movie) in this sequel?? I've watched several RUclipsrs react to this film and nobody even reacts
Actually, Vito hangs with _Genco Abbandando_ from the grocery shop, who becomes his consigliere before Tom Hagen, not Hyman Roth. In the first film, we see his olive oil business is named Genco too and there's a deleted scene of Vito visiting him on his death bed. But yeah it's a shame that the appearance of young Clemenza and especially young Tessio doesn't get much notice. I find the latter especially tragic because now we get to see how long he'd known Vito and how close they'd been until his betrayal :( I recently found out that Clemenza was originally supposed to be a big part of The Godfather 2, but the actor didn't return so they wrote in his death and introduced Frank Pentangeli as his underling who took over instead.
23:43 That actor must've had some real confidence in the driver of the green car to pass by him like that. I probably would've been praying not to get ran over. 😅
Robert De Niro's first credited role was in 1968 ("Greetings") when he was 25 years old. He gained much attention in 1973 with his performances in "Bang The Drum Slowly" and "Mean Streets". He then exploded into stardom in 1974 with his performance as the young Vito Corleone. I loved the story of young Vito. It was totally captivating - much more than Michael's political intrigue with Roth and Cuba. I would have loved a film that focused only on young Vito.
Hello there Achara & Steph. Just stopping by to say how much good it does my heart to view & hear the reaction of young people who view classic films for the first time.😀
The man with Vito in the theater is Genco Abbandando, Vito's friend and first consigliere. The olive oil company, Genco, is named after him. You hoped he (Vito) was telling the truth about his wife and son. In the book it clearly states that Vito is "straightlaced" about sex. He would never cheat on his wife. Clemenza and the rug is a great scene. So is Vito, Clemenza, and Tessio eating spaghetti. In the brothel scene, did you see the look that Tom gave to Rocco?
For the first screen appearance of Robert de Niro check out Mean Streets. NY organized crime owned a cinema, theatre in NY and they loved the film Mean Streets so much the film played every night, apparently for a very long time. Also stars a young Harvey Keitel and I believe it was Martin Scorsese's first film. Cheers for the viewing. Much appreciated.
A much better movie? Someone can say better, but much better? I've seen them both countless times. Both great, but you can't top The Godfather. Part 2 was a very worthy sequel.
Holy s**t, you two should be VERY proud, you did not fall for the confusion that so many do/did (including probably my 11 year old self, can't remember), You knew right away there was something not right about Hyman Roth, I've never seen someone spot it so early, never ever. If there were reaction video awards, this would get "Most Impressive Navigation Of The Roth/Pantangeli Situation In Godfather 2"! 😄 Also, one of the great reactions to De Niro appearing on screen. Coppola directed TWO masterpieces that year, both nominated for Best Picture (Godfather Part 2 won). Anyways, definitely don't miss that one: "The Conversation"! It's got another great cast, another mind-blowing cinematic experience, and I do mean really one-of-a-kind. And then he did "Apocalypse Now" after that, and that was Coppola's 1970s!!! Four masterpieces! Plus producing "American Graffiti" (George Lucas' first - and greatest blockbuster hit masterpiece) and writing "Patton" (yet another 70s masterpiece of acting and writing). Thank you, Francis! All of those are "iconic", groundbreaking, essential staples, I hope you hit 'em all! We need way more reactions to "American Graffiti" and "The Conversation" ("Patton" too. Good choice for Veteran's or Memorial Day type thing). Coppola's done some good movies since but he's never topped his 70s run. Who could? Ok, le me finish this reaction now. Had to write that!
Lost in all these amazing actors is Robert Duvall's performances. A contemporary of Pacino and Deniro, he is very much a great actor in his own right (Lonesome Dove, Tender Mercies). Even John Cazale's career was short, all 5 of his movies should be seen.
The bushy eyebrows guy Vito hangs with around 14:30 is _Genco Abbandando_ the grocer's son, who becomes Vito's consigliere (before Tom Hagen takes over). In the first film, we see his olive oil business is named after Genco too, and there's a deleted scene of Vito visiting him on his death bed. I hope you guys also noticed young Clemenza in the Vito flashbacks. I find it interesting that Clemenza is the one who gets Vito into crime, first with the guns and then stealing the rug. I recently found out that Clemenza was originally supposed to be a big part of The Godfather 2, but the actor didn't return so they wrote in his death and introduced Frank Pentangeli as his underling who took over instead. And ofc, when young Tessio starts showing up in the Vito flashbacks is especially tragic because now we get to see how long he'd known Vito and the og crew and how close they'd all been before his betrayal in the first film.
‘They don’t make movies like this anymore’. The phrase is used often but in this case it’s true. The skill and gravitas of the actors and the craftsmanship of the film making on show is phenomenal. Love these reactions. Can’t wait for part 2.
I think the attempted strangulation of Frankie Pentangeli was a calculated botch. They didn't want to kill him -- they wanted to turn him against Michael, with the "Michael Corleone says hello." Roth is now keeping him under wraps, so Michael thinks he's dead. Michael is a great strategist, but he's still not quite in Roth's league. I don't think Roth was taken in by Michael's ploy of accusing Frank of trying to kill him. He used it against Michael. The shot of young Clemenza holding the gun by the door is one of my favorites, too. I'm glad you two are appreciating these movies. You really get them.
If you've watched the Sopranos, the man Michael talks to at 6:50 representing Hyman Roth's interests, Johnny Ola, is played by Dominic Chianese, who is *Uncle Junior* to Tony Soprano!
9:53 I love how we’re dealing w/ a subject matter that includes: murder, drug trafficking, sex trafficking, political corruption, illegal gambling, among many other nefarious things; and “racism” is not only top of mind, it’s a worthy enough comment to make the edit. 🤦♂️ BTW-Frankie’s comment about ‘giving loyalty’ wasn’t racist. It could have been ANYONE outside of the Family & he would’ve said the same thing. If you were in his position, you’d feel the same way too.
When Roth is talking about a man wanting to be President of the United States he is actually taking about Richard Nixon who was the Republican Presidential candidate in 1960. Nixon was anti Communist and he had ties to mafia figures. Nixon would be elected president in 1968 and re elected in 1972. He was later forced to resign from office because of Watergate in 1974.
Good first half reaction. Y'all the only ones I seen react to and realize how the Moe Green part connects. Every other react just stares blindly at the screen during that part like they can't put 2 + 2 together or they forgot that quickly about what happened in Godfather 1. lol
It STILL pisses me off that Pacino never won an Oscar for his portrayal of Michael Corleone in either the Godfather 1 or 2. How tf is that even possible!!!???
Pacino is 1 for 5 in Best Actor nominations (Scent of a Woman), and 0 for 4 in Best Supporting Actor nominations. The Academy Awards are an enigma wrapped in a riddle. They're impossible to figure out.
Parodies are considered free speech but he’s never done a song without the artists’ blessing, aside from a miscommunication between his and Coolio’s people. He didn’t want Al parodying Gangster’s Paradise but Al was told their managers all said OK. Coolio was pissed about it but he was the one who came out and apologized to Al and said something along the lines of “if MJ was cool with it then who am I to complain” and he said that going against Al was a “dumb” career move. Think about that, Al’s so respected that someone apologized *to him* for being upset that he used their song without permission.
If you want to see Robert De Niro younger, watch Mean Streets from 1973. It's also his first collaboration with Scorcese, he also plays somewhat against type in that one.
While I can see why people say Part 2 is "better", I disagree completely. 1) I think that the interest in Vito's part REALLY helps carry the movie, especially due to mirroring Michael's part, but also being far more interesting than Michael's portions up to the point of going to Cuba. 2) I think that the REAL strength for 2's popularity is due more to the groundwork already laid out in 1. Without Part 1, Part 2 doesn't hold up because of where the Vito portions cut off, as well as MISSING the "after getting the crown" portion for Vito from Part 1. (Meaning that you KNOW where Vito ends up, so seeing him climb is really paid off mostly due to Part 1 than it is shown in Part 2). 3) And while I completely agree that some of the Vito scenes DO look like a masterpiece painting, I view that more as Coppolla being given far more of a "free hand" to direct as he wanted to, compared to Part 1's constant studio interference. 4) But the BIGGEST aspect, in my opinion, is that Part 2 actually has far more "organized crime" elements compared to Part 1's "family oriented" story. Making it a bit more compelling of a story OVERALL, but less of a personality dynamic of Michael's growth. We see Michael "change" over Part 1, but in Part 2... he is basically the same the entire movie, with only a different set of circumstances that he has to deal with.... more or less the same way he did Part 1. So, while I can "understand" the argument being made about Part 2, I still think that Part 1 is the "better" movie. Now, this is almost like comparing which is better a 20oz Porterhouse Steak or a Filet Mignon. They can BOTH be absolutely magnificent meals, depending on the mood you are in at the time, but also different enough to make them their own course.
Great instincts girls on the way Michael played it, on my 1st viewing of this many yrs ago Ididnt realize how fredo was involved. IM really looking for both of your reactions to several scnes and of course the earlier flashbacks to Young Vito. Im not a fan of angry Deniro now but kudos to him for actually learning the Sicilian dialect and he def deserved the Best supporting oscar and I still think AL Pacino should have won best actor. I hope you 2 see AL in Serpico where he delivered another fantastic performance in a true story
De Niro came into read for the part of Michael. Obviously, it went to Pacino. Coppola liked De Niro and remembered him and casted him as young Vito in part 2.
I had to watch the movies in a long time period and I came across your reaction, do it and I'm not sure why I watched it but I did and I really enjoyed it period I was a kid when I first saw the movies and you really helped me see the album called neuron, says that I might have not paid attention to period anyway. I wanted to see a reaction to the Godfather too, and I couldn't find anything. So I guess though I decided to rent it. Period not just by accent. I see you guys covering it 23 minutes after you post it this period I don't think I'd normally watch a reaction after having watched the full movie recently. But I enjoyed your guys review of it so much that here. I am period anyway. You guys are doing a great job period just wanted to let you know
I respect people's opinions but this is the best movie ever made. I wouldn't say it's MUCH better than the first but it is absolutely better, and better than every other movie too.
Hyman Roth was played by Lee Strasberg who was an actor and acting teacher and is considered by some to be the father of Method Acting in the United States.
Having the sequel to one of the greatest movies of all time be over 3 hours long, and spend half its time as a prequel to part 1 should’ve been absolutely impossible from the start, but somehow Francis Ford Coppola did it. Not only that but an argument can be made that it’s better than the first.
You can't improve on perfection. And the first movie was perfection. The fact that the sequel can be confusing at times for some viewers, means that it falls short of perfection, while still being a masterpiece.
The Godfather 2 is my favorite outta this trilogy. I heard in Sicily the mafia will wipe out your whole entire bloodline. In the States your family is suppose to be safe. I'm not sure it's something I heard.
I can't never decide which one I love more. I think Pacino is more captivating here but I wouldn't him so menacing if the first one wouldn't have the brilliant character arc
When Hyman Roth is trying to hand their Havana business operations to Michael (on the eve of the Cuban Revolution, thereby leaving Michael holding the bag with private business operations that are about to become nationalized by Castro's government), he says at one point, "We're bigger than US Steel". Roth is referring to the company formed by JP Morgan from some top steel producers during the robber baron days of America's industrial and rail age, including Andrew Carnegie's and Charles M. Schwab's, and once the largest steel producer in the world. It'd be like someone today boasting "We're bigger than Microsoft".
I'm sure someone will mention to you that the old man in Miami/Havana was played by Lee Strasberg, one of the greatest acting teachers ever. So I won't bother. Oops...
Director Francis Ford Coppola followed this up with Apocalypse Now, which costars Marlon Brando. Other films similar to this I recommend watching are Scarface and American Gangster. I also recommend watching the HBO drama series The Sopranos
Casting Robert De Niro as young Vito Corleone is the best thing happened to this sequel 🙌
Even he won his first oscar for that role.
The guy who takes Vito to get the rug is the young Clemenza, the "leave the gun, take the Cannoli" guy from the first movie. The third guy who was supposed to pay Fanucci with them is Tessio, the guy who tried to betray Michael near the end of that movie.
Hyman Roth's Moe Green monologue is one of the best ever! Riveting, gripping, profound.
Bonasera's opening monologue, Vito's monologue to the Five Families, and Roth's Moe Green monologue are magnificent.
Lee Strasberg plays the role of Roth. Famous in his own right, he operated a legendary school for acting. Here’s a short list of his notable students:
Anne Bancroft
Ellen Burstyn
Montgomery Clift
James Dean
Robert De Niro
Jane Fonda
Julie Harris
Dustin Hoffman
Elia Kazan
Marilyn Monroe
Paul Newman
Al Pacino
Geraldine Page
Frank Perry
Andreas Voustinas
Eli Wallach
Where is part 2 ???
The fact that Pacino was acting opposite his teacher in several scenes, is pretty cool.
The "which movie is better war" will never end. I'm firmly with the first movie being clearly the best. But the second one is still a masterpiece .
💯💯
Agreed. Because without the backbone of the first, the second loses something as a stand-alone. The invisible presence of Brando/Vito is necessary and altho a film might have been made where a dead person is merely referred to, it works better when the audience knows for a fact how strong that character was and the power and wisdom he exuded. When the film came out, it appeared more groundbreaking and daring than it might seem today. But it paved the way as well as honoring the highest quality of cinematic artistry.
I think people gravitate to the second however because of its depth, seeing Vito’s backstory, and people liking De Niro’s portrayal, and the enormous strength in Pacino’s performance, and that it is a more emotional and tragic story. Also, the technical aspects were changed a bit; the dark atmosphere which the cinematographer wanted so much in the first film, was brightened somewhat, at least with more spotlights, and modern audiences prefer a brighter look. And the Keaton/Kay character becomes stronger, smarter and not as easily manipulated by Michael, so she demonstrates a more modern and “American” type of woman.
Yeah I’m with you
I agree that I think the first is better but I think the absolute best way to watch it is to watch it in epic form
Agreed 💯
The difference between the rest of the mafia where they look to take advantage of anyone they can, Vito collects favors. He actually provides a service that people want.
No. The difference is that Vito was smart about who he exploited. He saw no reason to exhort pennies from the local store keepers when he could make thousands in other criminal enterprises. The book explains that he made tons of money selling alcohol during Prohibition. He then went into the olive business and got a monopoly by giving "an offer you cannot refuse" to any local business that sold olive oil. Anyone who dared to refuse found himself beaten up and his business wrecked. If you had what he wanted, he would take it.
@@przemekkozlowski7835 who'd he exploit? He always gave everyone a chance with a fair deal. And criminals are fair game. I don't consider them being exploited.
@@russellward4624also why are the mentioning the book when we are strictly talking about the movie and from the things it shows us that he was fair tough but fair
@@russellward4624 I mean we don't mind when criminals are exploited, but at the end of the day it's still exploitation. and Vito did look to take advantage like all the other mob bosses. _but_ he also did the favor system. He wasn't a saint, but he wasn't cruel for cruelty's sake. He tried to walk a fine line.
20:18 Steph I have never agreed with you more, Al Pacino should’ve gotten the freaking Oscar for this movie. He was outstanding in the first movie, but he gives a truly LEGENDARY performance in this film.
The actor who plays Hyman Roth is Lee Strassburg. He wasn't in a lot of movies but was on stage a lot. More importantly, he and his wife, Stella Adler led The Actors Studio in NYC, where they trained a generation of young actors in the art of Method Acting.
One of whom was Al Pacino
Stella and Lee were not married. Actually they kind of hated each other. 😂
Stella Adler was married to Harold Clurman not Strasberg and she joined The Group Theater which Strasberg, Clurman and Cheryl Crawford founded and then she later founded The Stella Adler Conservatory of Theater. You are right about them along with Sanford Meisner training a generation of young actors, but it was Strasberg who was the teacher of 'the method.' Adler and Meisner we not. They viewed the method as a piece of the pie for Konstantin Stanislavski's training and not the totality of it. Basically, Strasberg's emphasized emotional recall (method), Adler's championed imagination and script analysis (imagining you are the character), and Meisner's focus on truthful behavior through repetition training and creating a backstory for your character that actually means something to you and connects to the story/lines so the lines are expressed and not just recited. Basically modern realistic acting is because of all of them.
One of the most romantic scenes in cinematic history to me is when Vito comes home with that pear after being fired, and his wife says "what a lovely, pear." they sit and kiss.... so good
It's my favorite scene in the trilogy. She was as appreciative of a pear as if it were expensive jewelry. Also showed her humility and lack of sense of entitlement showing he chose his wife wisely and why he is faithful to her.
It is very good. His wife and son meant so much to him.
I love the random cuts to their faces just silently watching the movie😆they crack me up
Godfather 2 is two movie set in one , rise of vito and the demise of his empire by his son Michael.
This is one of the best and well crafted sequel and flashback sequence in cinema . Back in forth , every décision made by Micheal is a opposition of what his father used to do . Vito built his Underworld around his family, Micheal maintain it but lose everyone who loved him
How did Michael KNOW that it was Hyman that was behind everything? Because when he is talking to him, and says that Frank "has to go".... Hyman replied with "he is small potatoes".
BUT.... Frank is basically running the "day to day" operations for ALL of New York for the Corleone Family.... and someone calls him "small potatoes"? Frank is basically the NUMBER 3 in the entire operations, behind Michael and Tom..... and Hyman calls him "small potatoes"? That told Michael right away that Hyman completely intends to take out NOT just Frank, but Michael and ANYONE ELSE that is seen as being "in charge" for the Corleone organization. The "Michael sends his regards" comment was DESIGNED to make Frank think he was being betrayed, so that his LAS THOUGHTS were that his entire life was "for nothing", making his death that much more PERSONAL. It wasn't directly from Michael, but Frank THOUGHT so... which is why Frank goes to the police.
Al Pacino performance as Michael Corleone has been studied picked apart in every acting school in the world since 1972
The pace of these movies is so important because it creates the dramatic tension between characters in every scene. The pauses, glances, look-aways and searing stares brings the audience into the rooms where all the action takes place so you really feel like a fly on the wall. And of course your reaction is like all of our reactions the first time we saw this movie too. Bravo ladies!
This movie is crazy to me because that's just about the same time my great-grandfather came through Ellis Island, and he was about 15. He was with a cousin, at least. These kids were just being shipped across a whole ocean to get out to somewhere else.
@18:57 'What a Shot'... I've wanted that very still of Clemenza pointing the gun as a poster for the longest time! Maybe my favourite single frame in any movie!
Google Clemenza Godfather pointing gun meme. Then click images. Go over to the image of Bruno Kirby as young Clemenza. Right click download image which will save it to your downloads or you can save it to documents. You can have that image made into large poster.
Their Sicilian dialect is uniformly great--great preparation and a really excellent dialect coach. De Niro wasn't fluent in Italian and he learned from someone who knew their business. And the clothing is right on the money. This is an extraordinary production.
Clemenza, the one who stole the rug is the same man who showed Michael how to shoot the gun to kill the cop in the restaurant in the first movie. And Tessio, the one who sat at the table with Vito and Clemenza to discuss paying off Fanucci is the same man who betrayed Michael at Vito’s funeral.
Maybe the best film of all time right here. The 3rd film isn't anywhere near as good as this, but for a 1990 gangster movie, it's actually well done. It came out the same year as Goodfellas. It's good to watch just to see how they close out the narrative.
I fully agree....The 2020 'Coda' re-edited cut of part III is the best version in my opinion.
The man who played Hyman Roth, Lee Strasberg is considered as "The Father of Method Acting" and has taught and mentored Al Pacino, Robert De Niro and Marlon Brando whom as we all know, are the lead stars of the Godfather Trilogy.
Since the Godfather 1St came out, acting schools all over the world and even today , Al Pacino's role of Michel Corleone is studied and picked apart for the brilliance that it is by students everywhere
I still can’t believe Johnny Ola is Junior from the Sopranos.
I love how you two notice the great shots - the cinematography. I would repeatedly watch the Godfather movies in the arthouse theaters in the 90s with my friend and we always commented on the same great shots you recognize. They look even better on the big screen.
The Godfather is a perfect movie
Shows that crime with power, pays. The cost, though, is freedom.
A great movie. Not a perfect movie. "No movie is without sin." -- CinemaSins
@@DMichaelAtLargeGodfather is almost perfect
The actor who played Hyman Roth was Lee Strassburg a legend in teaching actors and a fantastic actor.
So back in the 90’s HBO actually made a cut of the first to movies into a single movie called The Godfather Saga, it also never before seen deleted scenes edited in. Unfortunately it never made the jump from VHS to DVD and it’s not available to stream in the US or most other countries.
I guarantee that if that was released on blu-ray Paramount would make a mint
One of the best shots in this movie: American gangsters dividing up a "Cuba" cake while they discuss how they're going to divide up the actual country among themselves "Make sure everyone gets a piece"
The President reference by Roth is about John F Kennedy. His father Joseph Kennedy was deeply involved with the syndicates in the 1920's.
Alot conspiracy theories that john f Kennedy was killed by the mob because of josephs involvement in the bootlegging days with the mob.
The Kennedy rot continues to this day.
How does nobody picks up on the fact that Vito hangs around with Hyman Roth, and then meets Clemenza and Tessio (from the first movie) in this sequel?? I've watched several RUclipsrs react to this film and nobody even reacts
Actually, Vito hangs with _Genco Abbandando_ from the grocery shop, who becomes his consigliere before Tom Hagen, not Hyman Roth. In the first film, we see his olive oil business is named Genco too and there's a deleted scene of Vito visiting him on his death bed.
But yeah it's a shame that the appearance of young Clemenza and especially young Tessio doesn't get much notice. I find the latter especially tragic because now we get to see how long he'd known Vito and how close they'd been until his betrayal :(
I recently found out that Clemenza was originally supposed to be a big part of The Godfather 2, but the actor didn't return so they wrote in his death and introduced Frank Pentangeli as his underling who took over instead.
23:43 That actor must've had some real confidence in the driver of the green car to pass by him like that. I probably would've been praying not to get ran over. 😅
Robert De Niro's first credited role was in 1968 ("Greetings") when he was 25 years old.
He gained much attention in 1973 with his performances in "Bang The Drum Slowly" and "Mean Streets".
He then exploded into stardom in 1974 with his performance as the young Vito Corleone.
I loved the story of young Vito. It was totally captivating - much more than Michael's political intrigue with Roth and Cuba.
I would have loved a film that focused only on young Vito.
19:27 a great acting student and a great acting teacher
Godfather Part 2 is as good as the the original. An achievement in itself.
“He army crawled”😂 Never heard of an army crawl. Pub crawl I know.
Well, Michael was an officer in the Marines.
Hello there Achara & Steph. Just stopping by to say how much good it does my heart to view & hear the reaction of young people who view classic films for the first time.😀
The man with Vito in the theater is Genco Abbandando, Vito's friend and first consigliere. The olive oil company, Genco, is named after him. You hoped he (Vito) was telling the truth about his wife and son. In the book it clearly states that Vito is "straightlaced" about sex. He would never cheat on his wife. Clemenza and the rug is a great scene. So is Vito, Clemenza, and Tessio eating spaghetti. In the brothel scene, did you see the look that Tom gave to Rocco?
That's Al Neri, not Rocco.
@@AmanAkhauri16 You're right, sorry.
21:16 You can thank me later 😂
Achara and Steph's reaction is adorable, like a couple of high school girls 🤣🤣
A bit of trivia: The man who plays Johnny Ola is the guy who would later portray Uncle Junior in The Sopranos.
For the first screen appearance of Robert de Niro check out Mean Streets. NY organized crime owned a cinema, theatre in NY and they loved the film Mean Streets so much the film played every night, apparently for a very long time. Also stars a young Harvey Keitel and I believe it was Martin Scorsese's first film. Cheers for the viewing. Much appreciated.
Scorsese's first film was Who's That Knocking at My Door?
@@AmanAkhauri16 Good to know. Cheers.
A much better movie?
Someone can say better, but much better?
I've seen them both countless times.
Both great, but you can't top The Godfather.
Part 2 was a very worthy sequel.
Holy s**t, you two should be VERY proud, you did not fall for the confusion that so many do/did (including probably my 11 year old self, can't remember), You knew right away there was something not right about Hyman Roth, I've never seen someone spot it so early, never ever. If there were reaction video awards, this would get "Most Impressive Navigation Of The Roth/Pantangeli Situation In Godfather 2"! 😄 Also, one of the great reactions to De Niro appearing on screen. Coppola directed TWO masterpieces that year, both nominated for Best Picture (Godfather Part 2 won). Anyways, definitely don't miss that one: "The Conversation"! It's got another great cast, another mind-blowing cinematic experience, and I do mean really one-of-a-kind. And then he did "Apocalypse Now" after that, and that was Coppola's 1970s!!! Four masterpieces! Plus producing "American Graffiti" (George Lucas' first - and greatest blockbuster hit masterpiece) and writing "Patton" (yet another 70s masterpiece of acting and writing). Thank you, Francis! All of those are "iconic", groundbreaking, essential staples, I hope you hit 'em all! We need way more reactions to "American Graffiti" and "The Conversation" ("Patton" too. Good choice for Veteran's or Memorial Day type thing). Coppola's done some good movies since but he's never topped his 70s run. Who could? Ok, le me finish this reaction now. Had to write that!
Lost in all these amazing actors is Robert Duvall's performances. A contemporary of Pacino and Deniro, he is very much a great actor in his own right (Lonesome Dove, Tender Mercies). Even John Cazale's career was short, all 5 of his movies should be seen.
That was fun. I have watched this movie too many times to count, and you guys made it feel like it was a first watch again.
I Love the flashbacks gives a large perspective on all the families motivation
The bushy eyebrows guy Vito hangs with around 14:30 is _Genco Abbandando_ the grocer's son, who becomes Vito's consigliere (before Tom Hagen takes over). In the first film, we see his olive oil business is named after Genco too, and there's a deleted scene of Vito visiting him on his death bed.
I hope you guys also noticed young Clemenza in the Vito flashbacks. I find it interesting that Clemenza is the one who gets Vito into crime, first with the guns and then stealing the rug. I recently found out that Clemenza was originally supposed to be a big part of The Godfather 2, but the actor didn't return so they wrote in his death and introduced Frank Pentangeli as his underling who took over instead.
And ofc, when young Tessio starts showing up in the Vito flashbacks is especially tragic because now we get to see how long he'd known Vito and the og crew and how close they'd all been before his betrayal in the first film.
‘They don’t make movies like this anymore’. The phrase is used often but in this case it’s true. The skill and gravitas of the actors and the craftsmanship of the film making on show is phenomenal. Love these reactions. Can’t wait for part 2.
I think the attempted strangulation of Frankie Pentangeli was a calculated botch. They didn't want to kill him -- they wanted to turn him against Michael, with the "Michael Corleone says hello." Roth is now keeping him under wraps, so Michael thinks he's dead.
Michael is a great strategist, but he's still not quite in Roth's league. I don't think Roth was taken in by Michael's ploy of accusing Frank of trying to kill him. He used it against Michael.
The shot of young Clemenza holding the gun by the door is one of my favorites, too.
I'm glad you two are appreciating these movies. You really get them.
Fantastic! You two are awesome.
If you've watched the Sopranos, the man Michael talks to at 6:50 representing Hyman Roth's interests, Johnny Ola, is played by Dominic Chianese, who is *Uncle Junior* to Tony Soprano!
The Godfather is the greatest movie ever. The Godfather Part II is the 2nd greatest movie ever.
One of the greatest movies ever made in the history of film, a true masterpiece of art that will stand the test of time well into the next century.
Good catch on Michael crawling to save Kate during the gunfire. I always forget he was a Marine in WWII. Mikey definitely seen some shit.
9:53 I love how we’re dealing w/ a subject matter that includes: murder, drug trafficking, sex trafficking, political corruption, illegal gambling, among many other nefarious things; and “racism” is not only top of mind, it’s a worthy enough comment to make the edit. 🤦♂️
BTW-Frankie’s comment about ‘giving loyalty’ wasn’t racist. It could have been ANYONE outside of the Family & he would’ve said the same thing. If you were in his position, you’d feel the same way too.
When Roth is talking about a man wanting to be President of the United States he is actually taking about Richard Nixon who was the Republican Presidential candidate in 1960. Nixon was anti Communist and he had ties to mafia figures. Nixon would be elected president in 1968 and re elected in 1972. He was later forced to resign from office because of Watergate in 1974.
I’m in the camp of the first movie being the best but that doesn’t take anything away from Part 2 because it’s a masterpiece and I love it
Good first half reaction. Y'all the only ones I seen react to and realize how the Moe Green part connects. Every other react just stares blindly at the screen during that part like they can't put 2 + 2 together or they forgot that quickly about what happened in Godfather 1. lol
It STILL pisses me off that Pacino never won an Oscar for his portrayal of Michael Corleone in either the Godfather 1 or 2. How tf is that even possible!!!???
Pacino is 1 for 5 in Best Actor nominations (Scent of a Woman), and 0 for 4 in Best Supporting Actor nominations.
The Academy Awards are an enigma wrapped in a riddle. They're impossible to figure out.
Glad you guys are continuing with the God Father movies
Parodies are considered free speech but he’s never done a song without the artists’ blessing, aside from a miscommunication between his and Coolio’s people. He didn’t want Al parodying Gangster’s Paradise but Al was told their managers all said OK. Coolio was pissed about it but he was the one who came out and apologized to Al and said something along the lines of “if MJ was cool with it then who am I to complain” and he said that going against Al was a “dumb” career move. Think about that, Al’s so respected that someone apologized *to him* for being upset that he used their song without permission.
the lighting in this movie is beautiful
The actor playing hyman roth is a famous acting teacher named Lee strausberg. Al Pacino & Marlon Brando & many other people were his students
what a great movie and a great reaction. You both do it so well. Thanks from germany
Awesome you guys are cheering on Michael in the beginning, he’s a super guy
If you want to see Robert De Niro younger, watch Mean Streets from 1973. It's also his first collaboration with Scorcese, he also plays somewhat against type in that one.
While I can see why people say Part 2 is "better", I disagree completely.
1) I think that the interest in Vito's part REALLY helps carry the movie, especially due to mirroring Michael's part, but also being far more interesting than Michael's portions up to the point of going to Cuba.
2) I think that the REAL strength for 2's popularity is due more to the groundwork already laid out in 1. Without Part 1, Part 2 doesn't hold up because of where the Vito portions cut off, as well as MISSING the "after getting the crown" portion for Vito from Part 1. (Meaning that you KNOW where Vito ends up, so seeing him climb is really paid off mostly due to Part 1 than it is shown in Part 2).
3) And while I completely agree that some of the Vito scenes DO look like a masterpiece painting, I view that more as Coppolla being given far more of a "free hand" to direct as he wanted to, compared to Part 1's constant studio interference.
4) But the BIGGEST aspect, in my opinion, is that Part 2 actually has far more "organized crime" elements compared to Part 1's "family oriented" story. Making it a bit more compelling of a story OVERALL, but less of a personality dynamic of Michael's growth. We see Michael "change" over Part 1, but in Part 2... he is basically the same the entire movie, with only a different set of circumstances that he has to deal with.... more or less the same way he did Part 1.
So, while I can "understand" the argument being made about Part 2, I still think that Part 1 is the "better" movie. Now, this is almost like comparing which is better a 20oz Porterhouse Steak or a Filet Mignon. They can BOTH be absolutely magnificent meals, depending on the mood you are in at the time, but also different enough to make them their own course.
Great instincts girls on the way Michael played it, on my 1st viewing of this many yrs ago Ididnt realize how fredo was involved. IM really looking for both of your reactions to several scnes and of course the earlier flashbacks to Young Vito. Im not a fan of angry Deniro now but kudos to him for actually learning the Sicilian dialect and he def deserved the Best supporting oscar and I still think AL Pacino should have won best actor. I hope you 2 see AL in Serpico where he delivered another fantastic performance in a true story
De Niro came into read for the part of Michael. Obviously, it went to Pacino. Coppola liked De Niro and remembered him and casted him as young Vito in part 2.
He read for Sonny, I've seen his audition reel a few times (you can probably find it on RUclips).
The quarantine cells are still there at Ellis Island
I had to watch the movies in a long time period and I came across your reaction, do it and I'm not sure why I watched it but I did and I really enjoyed it period I was a kid when I first saw the movies and you really helped me see the album called neuron, says that I might have not paid attention to period anyway. I wanted to see a reaction to the Godfather too, and I couldn't find anything. So I guess though I decided to rent it.
Period not just by accent. I see you guys covering it 23 minutes after you post it this period I don't think I'd normally watch a reaction after having watched the full movie recently. But I enjoyed your guys review of it so much that here. I am period anyway. You guys are doing a great job period just wanted to let you know
This was DeNiro's 11th movie role (of importance) . He won an Oscar for this.
Godfather part 1 and 2 are masterpieces both.
Yep! I knew this was comin'!!! THANKS for this!!!!
These are getting to my fav reactions. My two fav ladies watching my fav movies! Achara I love you. :) lol
not sure if they recognize the actor playing Cicci, Frank Pantangelli's muscle. He also played Gazzo the legbreaker in "Rocky".
I respect people's opinions but this is the best movie ever made. I wouldn't say it's MUCH better than the first but it is absolutely better, and better than every other movie too.
It's all personal opinion. There is no Right or Wrong answer when people talk about their favorite films. It's never a competition.
Taxi Driver came out two years after Godfather 2!
Hyman Roth was played by Lee Strasberg who was an actor and acting teacher and is considered by some to be the father of Method Acting in the United States.
Method acting is a crutch. It's a prop to stand next to as you emote something .
Johnny Ola is played by actor Dominic Chianese, Chianese also played Junior Soprano in "The Sopranos".
Having the sequel to one of the greatest movies of all time be over 3 hours long, and spend half its time as a prequel to part 1 should’ve been absolutely impossible from the start, but somehow Francis Ford Coppola did it. Not only that but an argument can be made that it’s better than the first.
You can't improve on perfection. And the first movie was perfection. The fact that the sequel can be confusing at times for some viewers, means that it falls short of perfection, while still being a masterpiece.
Check out, “ Mean Streets “ . It was Robert DeNiro’s first movie directed by Martin Scorsese. Great reaction!
Your reactions for this movie were great! Do more!
Definitely enjoyed your reaction to this part!!!
The Godfather 2 is my favorite outta this trilogy. I heard in Sicily the mafia will wipe out your whole entire bloodline. In the States your family is suppose to be safe. I'm not sure it's something I heard.
The guy who’s performing the young Clemenza speaks in a perfect Sicilian. Probably his parents were both Italians.
I can't never decide which one I love more. I think Pacino is more captivating here but I wouldn't him so menacing if the first one wouldn't have the brilliant character arc
The Godfathers 1 & 2 are like the Lord of the Rings trilogy. The best one is the one you’re watching at the time.
Oh nice, I just saw the first one's videos yesterday and was hoping yall would do this also!
michael in godfather 2 🔥🔥🔥
When Hyman Roth is trying to hand their Havana business operations to Michael (on the eve of the Cuban Revolution, thereby leaving Michael holding the bag with private business operations that are about to become nationalized by Castro's government), he says at one point, "We're bigger than US Steel". Roth is referring to the company formed by JP Morgan from some top steel producers during the robber baron days of America's industrial and rail age, including Andrew Carnegie's and Charles M. Schwab's, and once the largest steel producer in the world. It'd be like someone today boasting "We're bigger than Microsoft".
With Michael it's always moves within moves within moves lol. Some very strategic plans
I'm sure someone will mention to you that the old man in Miami/Havana was played by Lee Strasberg, one of the greatest acting teachers ever. So I won't bother. Oops...
"Mean streets." 1971. De Niro.
Your reactions are fantastic!
Director Francis Ford Coppola followed this up with Apocalypse Now, which costars Marlon Brando. Other films similar to this I recommend watching are Scarface and American Gangster. I also recommend watching the HBO drama series The Sopranos
Awesome reaction of my favorite movie!!!!😊😊😊😊
First one for me because of Marlon Brando , iconic scene after iconic scene can’t be beaten 😊
This is going to be a 🔥🔥🔥🔥 reaction! "Michael, we're bigger than U.S. steel."
And where is US STEEL now.? Dead, like America will be on it's present course.
Finally! Best movie of all-time!
Unparalleled Al Pacino ❤
My babies are back together. Easily my favorite team on cinepals