Hey dude when are you going to make more videos on other subjects dude because I know you love movies I love movies too but I just want to let you know dude the reason why I haven't been watching your videos for a long time is because I was described to a RUclipsr / twitch streamer will have a crush on and also I think you're pretty good dude keep up the good work. 😎
I love how Al Neri goes down on one knee, instead of chasing after Barzini. That was such a brilliant touch from the producers, it shows that Neri isn`t just some amateur, that Michael sent his very best man to do the job.
That always struck me as very professional as well. I remember thinking, "who is that guy?" (It was before I read the book and I guess I just didnt recognize that it was that Al Neri Tom had spoken about.)
Classic scene is when Michael gave Neri "The look" while he was embracing Fredo at Mama Corleone's funeral. You just knew Fredo was not long for this world.
Glad to see you showing some love to Al Neri, he was a stone cold gangster and the only original left standing at the end of the trilogy. He started out hating the mafia and never joined for power or money, he joined because they showed him love and respect, when no-one else would, which made him loyal to the Don, to him it wasn't business, it was family, a true mafioso
Neri's backstory in the novel begins as he is preparing that morning to kill Barzini. The police uniform he is putting on is his own, and it brings back all the memories and events that has led him to where he is that day. Everything just as meticulious as when he was a policeman. His shoes and badge polished to a brilliant shine, his uniform immaculate, and all the moving parts on his .38 service revolver oiled up and ready for the task ahead. The killing of Barzini, the Corleone's greatest nemesis, will be the crux of their rise back to the summit of power. It will also solidify Neri's position in the family for the rest of his life. The irony of this act being done by Neri in his old police uniform is not lost on him. But for all the irony and memory it envokes, it stregnthens his resolve to the task before him.
he worked w/ Pacino , as his brother, in 'the panic in needle park'. Pacino always trying to score junk, he tells him (mocking the well known hit by the Hollies), "you're my brother, but you are heavy, let me tell you"(paraphrasing).
Part of his appeal is the banality of his appearance. His presence almost unnoticed. His face showing little emotion. Handsome but unremarkably so. Well dressed but only so as not to stand out. A witness, asked to describe him, would probably answer, “Well, I’m not sure…” Might as well describe a shadow, or a silhouette.
White Joseph, :) do you have that name to make sure that in the world above they have no doubts in understanding whose side you are? or is it your real name?
I casually knew Richard Bright, who played Al Neri. He was a funny, thoughtful guy. He became an actor in the 1960s, and at that time dealt with a drug habit which he overcame. He loved acting on stage and was friends with playwright Miguel Pinero. Richard had his own violent death when as he was walking home, was struck and killed by a tour bus on West 86th Street and Columbus Ave. in Manhattan. RIP, Richie.
Many fans of The Godfather don't realize that Richard Bright's acting in the Al Neri role at the next to the final screen shot is the special touch which makes the ending of the picture so powerful. In the final seconds of the film, director Coppola shows the two worlds, one with Michael, Clemenza, and the new capo taking over Tessio's operations on the inside, and the other with Kay on the outside looking in. And just before the closing shot on Kay's face, Al Neri approaches from the right side of the room to the door facing Kay. Richard Bright's character bows slightly, tilts his head, and gives this wonderfully respectful nod to Kay, with just a touch of a smile, as he slowly closes the door on Kay. Richard Bright's character conveys to Kay that she can never be a part of "this thing of ours," but that it's all for the best that she isn't. I wish I could say how many takes it took Coppola to capture that next to the closing shot the way he did, but Bright's performance is perfect. Check out the final scene again. It's a beautiful piece of acting by Bright.
I think his best scene is the one in II, where he persuades the owner of the building to vacate the premises while holding a chair that would put the guy in the hospital, or the cemetery.
@@tonym994 yes but too bad that was a deleted scene. The deleted scenes all have al in them. I find him one of the most interesting bc hes the guy Micheal trusts the most outside the family but more than fredo b4 fredo betrayed mike
@@natalieps2387 I may steal your way of shortening ''before'', as I tend to go on.... you're absolutely right. that's a keeper, and at least it finally saw the light of day. love it when HBO shows the whole saga. Mike loved Fredo, tho. that's the bittersweet difference.
@@tonym994 lol your gonna “steal” his b4, huh? How old are you? Like 10? B4 has been used as a shortened “before” since brick mobile phone days. Haha literally decades
@@michaellalli7693 Ha. I've always been completely opposite. I always thought it was sloppy. Not only did that hit require a ridiculously long pistol shot, but there was no coup de grace. You MUST make sure the no. 1 antagonist is dead (unless he's coming back for the sequel).
@@Keifsanderson Yes, there is no reason to believe that Barzini dies from those shots to his back. Seriously wounded but not necessarily dead,p. Same thing with Cuneo(sp?) being shot through the glass of a revolving door. In fact some of the bullets clearly don't even penetrate the glass iirc...
@@Keifsanderson I agree, but film often relies on 'suspension of disbelief' because it serves the story, which is bigger than the individual shot, scene or sequence
Richard Bright had a small role in THE GETAWAY. He's a petty crook who cons Ali McGraw out of the bag of stolen cash, but Steve McQueen tracks him down onto a train and quietly beats the shit out of him to get it back.
I never considered exactly who was assigned to the killing of the sex worker in Part Two. That it would be Neri is incredibly ironic. He loses his place on the police for killing a pimp who brutally assaulted and gravely injured his girls, then in service of his succeeding employer, murders a young woman in the same line of work.
Al no longer cares about anyone but the family. The world abandoned him and left him to die in prison. Only the corleones cared about him to bust him out and give him a life. So knocking a whore off to black mail a politician who was corrupt and no better than Michael means nothing to him.
It's implied that it's neri because as they're reassuring the senator, neri walks by wiping his hands off with a towel, giving a knowing look. It's very symbolic that he's washing his hands of her blood. I never knew he was a former cop. Really adds so much to the character, especially the hatred of pimps parts.
That always cracked me up, Connie asking the top hitter and right hand man of the Family to fetch a drink for her lame brain weasel groom. Poor Al, having to oblige.
I loved the casual way in which he closed the door so that Kay didn't see Michael's induction as Godfather. His slight glance of respect for Kay meant 'sorry, but you understand' kinda look...class act!
Al Neri was one of my favorite unsung characters of all 3 Godfather movies. It was good to see his character expanded more in part 3 and that he was given more dialog in the movie.
He was always my favorite character. Always unassuming but as Michael's bodyguard you know he had to be bad news. He could be a poster boy for the saying 'don't mess with people you don't know'.
Al Neri's background story is one of the most interesting parts of the book. This is saying a lot. While reading this section I felt sympathay, even admiration for the character. However I disagree with the narrator's explanation as to why the wife left him. In addition to fear, it was the wife's naivete and sheltered existence being obliterated when witnessing the extreme harshness of the fine street warrior instrumentment that was Neri's character.
Al's wife acted rashly. she saw what could when thought it was needed. she didn't see why he did it. she missed the fact he would die to protect his family, including the punk. all she saw was a part of Al she had never seen before. it scared her, sure, but she never realized why she had never seen it.
Al neri’s backstory about being a cop is so fascinating. Its one of my favorites, along with johnny fontaine. Great video my friend. Love coming across people who are well versed in the book. Puzo paints such a dark picture of the wax baines character and how al was punished for it. Not to mention “the flashlight”!!
In The Sopranos when chris and Silvio go to meet with hitmen one of the hitmen tells a story of when they killed Tommy Neri. And one of the hitmen was richard bright who played al neri.
Al Neri somehow has similarities with Michael. Once he was a straight person but changed due to the world he witnesses from his point of view. He gradually changed and become someone in the dark world. anyway, Al is a likable persona, he is cool, loyal, effective, and highly skilled.
Your comment is interesting and worth thinking about. While doing so, it occurred to me that both proved themselves as "soldiers" in defense of morality and the establishment before going into the gangster life. Michael was a Marine in World War II and I think I remember Clemenza saying something about how they were proud of what he'd done, which I assume means he'd been decorated for courage in combat. Al's police background demonstrated his courage, too. Another thing: Both of them are cool and low-key. Finally, they move in the same deliberate, slow way.
If you want to sample Richard Bright's range, re-watch "The Ref" with Dennis Leary. His work as Leary's dim, needy, hapless, alcoholic crime partner "Murray" is the antithesis of the cold take-care-of-business of Al Neri. It's hard to believe it is the same actor. And yet Bright was perfect for both roles.
My favorite Al Nieri Scene is when he makes a warm smirk when The Trio is surprised by Fredo with all The Las Vegas Call Girls in The Hotel Room! What a phenomenal Actor indeed!
@@iHawke answer the question you racist. You cheer neri who later goes on to do the exact same thing the the pimp does! He killed an innocent prostitute viciously and bloody. Along with killing more innocent people. Why are y’all cheering him?
@@professorxaviour3649: Neri only whacked the hooker because it’s what Corleone ordered, he was accompanied by Hagen too. On the beat as a cop? Neri would’ve never done that, how can he be in the Corleone’s and not want to do what the boss told him?
This is another reason why the book is better than the movie. Al Neri has an amazing story in the book on going from cop to a member of Corleone family.
Yes, well, normally books have more detail and backstory than the films based on the book. But if a film had all the details,back stories and sub plots from the book it would be 12 hours long and be too complex too follow. The audiobook of Godfather and a few others by Mario Puzo are on RUclips. They are good to listen too while working for anyone who doesnt have time to sit down and read.
I am SOOOOO, Happy to see someone, Talking about Al Neri. You don't get any cooler than him. I often pay attention to the characters behind the scenes, not always the main characters.
In the RUclips universe it's rare to find videos that actually instruct rather than bait and confuse. A brilliant well made video, thank you! I learned something today...
Fantastic Analysis of the Character known as Al Neri. We never knew 'so much more' was written about this Largely Silent Assassin. He was indeed a crafty but loyal Character (and that loyalty worked both ways--- as do all good relationships). Michael was as Master at Creating good relationships--- he was in many ways a Brilliant Manager!
FYI - Richard Bright and Al Pacino were in another film - THE PANIC IN NEEDLE PARK... where they are brothers, and Bright sleeps with Pacino's girlfriend... I think the actor (Bright) died by being hit with a double decker tourist bus in NYC.
Being a marine, Michael could relate to the policeman Al. I knew there had to be more to the the story when Al tapped Barzini's Cadillac and signaled to the chauffeur to get it out of the way. You really see how angry Al got about it. Just that instance brought back memories of diplomats parking wherever they wanted.
@Radium Clock.... It wasn't just because of that.By diverting Barzini's chauffeur away for somewhere else to park it makes it slightly easier to pick him off with his partner next to him without firing at the chauffeur first thus giving Barzini that split second to suddenly run away.Since he couldn't move him,or the chauffeur refused Al then improvised and just faked giving him a ticket to draw out Barzini.
@@aaronclareyloveshr6918 Great observation. Neri already had the toughest task that day - having to take out the highest ranking guy of the five families, plus deal with Barzini's bodyguard, in a public location, at longer range. The ornery chauffeur just added another level of difficulty, which Neri adeptly handled with quick thinking/the ticket act. Then, chauffeur and bodyguard down and precious seconds left, he had the sense to kneel down to stabilize his gun aim at the fleeing Barzini. The perfect hit man.
Al Neri was quite a gentleman and that can be seen when he closes the door on Kate while she is stunned looking in to the study of Michael where he is receiving respect from his henchmen - just notice that short respectful nod Neri gives Kate as if asking for her understanding and slowly shutting the door down.
I think Neri may be one of my favorite secondary characters in the trilogy. He was key in II, and came into his own with his performance in III, showing he was underutilized in the first two.
It all well and good until you realize there aren't alot cases that are that cut and try and their likely pulling this trash on.the wrongfully accused quite often.
I love your in-depth background info on these peripheral characters. It gives the movies even more substance to what I'm already aware of, adding yet more levels of interest and intrigue. Great work!
I'm conflicted on one hand ive been interested in the back stories of characters like al Neri who was totally loyal and a stone cold killer on the other their backgrounds being a mystery does make them scarier
I love a clip piece that delivers what it promises! This was good! I liked Neri--I like and understand him much better now! My wife says you were true to the novel. I always believe her. Good on you Ranger!
This is brilliant, the details behind the film make the film even better, I think its time that I actually read the book.. I watched your video on Luca, the story about the baby, that hit hard and made luca truly a man to fear..
Great, great video. I always was fascinated by that actor's quiet portrayal of one of Mike's right hand men. So I guess it was Rocco who said "Difficult but not impossible." when discussing knocking off old man Roth at the airport. Off the top of my head I thought it was Al.
It was on Rocco's watch the assassins got on the property and tried to kill Michael, Rocco killing Roth was probably a penance for for that blunder of security
Awesome Video! When I first read the books after watching the movies, I was dumbfounded how deadly Al was, one of my favorites definitely of the stories.
Richard Bright (Al Neri) was a close friend of Al Pacino since they were stage actors in NY. Sadly, Bright was struck and killed by a commuter bus while he was crossing the street in Manhattan in 2009.
I forgot the backstory of Neri. It’s been a long time since I listened to this book.. Love his story and his loyalty to Michael.. Neri was a true gangster
24 July 2021 : Sure , he's one of my favorite Godfather movie characters , now. I might mention I have never seen in print the account of Bright's life that you have presented. Even recently I perused an "authoritative" book , and read nothing remarkable. Thank you for discussing Richard Bright.
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Hey dude when are you going to make more videos on other subjects dude because I know you love movies I love movies too but I just want to let you know dude the reason why I haven't been watching your videos for a long time is because I was described to a RUclipsr / twitch streamer will have a crush on and also I think you're pretty good dude keep up the good work. 😎
@@RIUWithDrAndy106 But Dude!
@@RIUWithDrAndy106 hog
&h
@@RIUWithDrAndy106 h hi
I love how Al Neri goes down on one knee, instead of chasing after Barzini. That was such a brilliant touch from the producers, it shows that Neri isn`t just some amateur, that Michael sent his very best man to do the job.
He always gave Neri the most important targets. Barzini, Fredo, and the archbishop in part 3
That always struck me as very professional as well. I remember thinking, "who is that guy?" (It was before I read the book and I guess I just didnt recognize that it was that Al Neri Tom had spoken about.)
shooting from the kneeling position is great, gives you a lot more stability and hence better aim
I thought anyone who was a police officer couldn’t be made
Yep!!
Classic scene is when Michael gave Neri "The look" while he was embracing Fredo at Mama Corleone's funeral. You just knew Fredo was not long for this world.
Coldest scene in the movie Neri knew exactly what that look meant
Trust is everything.. mike can no longer trust fredo, and will always be a liable for him since he's dumb
@Awakened Man but still manages to give anthony a smile before killing his uncle.
@@rollup9113 One of the little brushstrokes that can transform a painting into a masterpiece.
@@rollup9113 One of the little brushstrokes that can transform a painting into a masterpiece.
Glad to see you showing some love to Al Neri, he was a stone cold gangster and the only original left standing at the end of the trilogy. He started out hating the mafia and never joined for power or money, he joined because they showed him love and respect, when no-one else would, which made him loyal to the Don, to him it wasn't business, it was family, a true mafioso
far cry from modern day "gangstahs "
@@zerosaber257organized crime is very much active?
@@zerosaber257 uhhh Godfather is literally just how the mob wanted to be seen lmao
Neri joined the Corleone family because Michael saved his ass from a long prison sentence. Did you even read the book?
@@johnpauljones9310 did you watch the video?
Neri's backstory in the novel begins as he is preparing that morning to kill Barzini. The police uniform he is putting on is his own, and it brings back all the memories and events that has led him to where he is that day. Everything just as meticulious as when he was a policeman. His shoes and badge polished to a brilliant shine, his uniform immaculate, and all the moving parts on his .38 service revolver oiled up and ready for the task ahead. The killing of Barzini, the Corleone's greatest nemesis, will be the crux of their rise back to the summit of power. It will also solidify Neri's position in the family for the rest of his life. The irony of this act being done by Neri in his old police uniform is not lost on him. But for all the irony and memory it envokes, it stregnthens his resolve to the task before him.
Its one of my favorite scenes in the novel.
I always admired his coolness and it’s a testimony to the acting that he didn’t need words to make his presence felt .
he worked w/ Pacino , as his brother, in 'the panic in needle park'. Pacino always trying to score junk, he tells him (mocking the well known hit by the Hollies), "you're my brother, but you are heavy, let me tell you"(paraphrasing).
Well they didnt give him lines. He had no choice
Didn't notice him til now...
@@jckdnls9292 how many times have you watched the movies? Have you seen all three?
good actor lol you should see him in " the ref " with denis leary
Part of his appeal is the banality of his appearance. His presence almost unnoticed. His face showing little emotion. Handsome but unremarkably so. Well dressed but only so as not to stand out. A witness, asked to describe him, would probably answer, “Well, I’m not sure…” Might as well describe a shadow, or a silhouette.
Your description is just so delicious and accurate
@@candycane7307 give him a wet reward
Great comment 👍
Best observation put to words I've read regarding any of the GF's wonderful characters. Puzo, is that you??
White Joseph, :) do you have that name to make sure that in the world above they have no doubts in understanding whose side you are? or is it your real name?
For a guy who never spoke he always stood out
He didn't stand out... Luca stood out ..
Fact
@@jckdnls9292 speak for yourself. After all, Neri does end up filling the role of Brasi after his death.
Well said.
I casually knew Richard Bright, who played Al Neri. He was a funny, thoughtful guy. He became an actor in the 1960s, and at that time dealt with a drug habit which he overcame. He loved acting on stage and was friends with playwright Miguel Pinero. Richard had his own violent death when as he was walking home, was struck and killed by a tour bus on West 86th Street and Columbus Ave. in Manhattan. RIP, Richie.
shit. I never knew that. he was Pacino's brother in 'The Panic in needle park'. which is all about junk.
Thanks for sharing
Sad to hear it, thank you for sharing. May he Rest In Peace.
My ex lived right around there. Too bad it wasn't her that got hit by the tour bus.
@@johnfarina6155 lmao
Michael the Marine, Al the Policeman, both disciplined and capable of “doing the deed” without remorse. “It’s just business”
Perfect combination of discipline, connections and sear brutality
I’m happy someone has finally recognized one of the most intriguing and memorable characters from The Godfather. Good job!
He’s like boba fett in The Godfather
Very underrated actor.
Many fans of The Godfather don't realize that Richard Bright's acting in the Al Neri role at the next to the final screen shot is the special touch which makes the ending of the picture so powerful. In the final seconds of the film, director Coppola shows the two worlds, one with Michael, Clemenza, and the new capo taking over Tessio's operations on the inside, and the other with Kay on the outside looking in. And just before the closing shot on Kay's face, Al Neri approaches from the right side of the room to the door facing Kay. Richard Bright's character bows slightly, tilts his head, and gives this wonderfully respectful nod to Kay, with just a touch of a smile, as he slowly closes the door on Kay. Richard Bright's character conveys to Kay that she can never be a part of "this thing of ours," but that it's all for the best that she isn't. I wish I could say how many takes it took Coppola to capture that next to the closing shot the way he did, but Bright's performance is perfect. Check out the final scene again. It's a beautiful piece of acting by Bright.
which movies' final scene?
@@itstatanka he's referring to closing scene of godfather 1
@@goal-goal-goalllllll appreciated!
That’s how Italian families are regarding some things. Having grown up in one I can attest
One of my favorite scenes of any film. The subtlety
Al's coolness set him apart. He wasn't Luca but just as dangerous.
I think his best scene is the one in II, where he persuades the owner of the building to vacate the premises while holding a chair that would put the guy in the hospital, or the cemetery.
@@tonym994 yes but too bad that was a deleted scene. The deleted scenes all have al in them. I find him one of the most interesting bc hes the guy Micheal trusts the most outside the family but more than fredo b4 fredo betrayed mike
@@natalieps2387 I may steal your way of shortening ''before'', as I tend to go on.... you're absolutely right. that's a keeper, and at least it finally saw the light of day. love it when HBO shows the whole saga. Mike loved Fredo, tho. that's the bittersweet difference.
@@tonym994 lol your gonna “steal” his b4, huh? How old are you? Like 10?
B4 has been used as a shortened “before” since brick mobile phone days. Haha literally decades
@@mariolisa2832 what the hell is a brick mobile phone? I I'm less than 10 in internet years. more like 7.
The way he kneels to take that shot on Barzini.
I think that scene of Al shooting Barzini was one of the best hit scenes of the movie.
@@michaellalli7693 Ha. I've always been completely opposite. I always thought it was sloppy. Not only did that hit require a ridiculously long pistol shot, but there was no coup de grace. You MUST make sure the no. 1 antagonist is dead (unless he's coming back for the sequel).
@@Keifsanderson Yes, there is no reason to believe that Barzini dies from those shots to his back.
Seriously wounded but not necessarily dead,p.
Same thing with Cuneo(sp?) being shot through the glass of a revolving door.
In fact some of the bullets clearly don't even penetrate the glass iirc...
I had no idea that’s Al shooting Barzini!!
@@Keifsanderson I agree, but film often relies on 'suspension of disbelief' because it serves the story, which is bigger than the individual shot, scene or sequence
Richard Bright played him flawlessly.His quiet,menacing screen presence was enough without much dialogue imho
And he was thrown under a bus and died.
@@MgtowRubicon I know just read it.Very sad :(
I know, the deleted scene where he beat Klingman actually detracted from the character's menace.
He was in once upon a time in America too.
@@jamiewilson5679 his filmography is an impressive list
Richard Bright’s cameo in The Sopranos was priceless. He was one of the old Rhode Island hit men.
Lou DiMaggio and the Atwell Avenue Boys... Just Don't mention drugs, not even Tylenol
Excellent. He also played Old Man Paruta in Witness to the Mob. Important information now that Sammy Gravano is back in town.
"They may be getting old but those dogs can still hunt"
Isn't that what uncle Junior said about them when he referred Tony to that crew?
Yes I remember a die hard GF stan pointed that out & it gave me a cool feeling even tho I had no clue Al Neri at the time lol
Richard Bright had a small role in THE GETAWAY. He's a petty crook who cons Ali McGraw out of the bag of stolen cash, but Steve McQueen tracks him down onto a train and quietly beats the shit out of him to get it back.
Finally Al-Neri is having some recognition! Read the Mario Puzo books, you won't regret it.
Lol i tried & I'm too scared plus i don't wna throw up and I mean no disrespect lmao its too much lol
I only read "The Godfather", and I'm so happy for ALL the information it gave on all the characters.
Oh yeah. I've read them a bunch of times. The movies are great, but the books would be enough good material for a few more movies.
@@cita623 They're not like that. The movies were worse in that sense.
I will never read it
I never considered exactly who was assigned to the killing of the sex worker in Part Two. That it would be Neri is incredibly ironic. He loses his place on the police for killing a pimp who brutally assaulted and gravely injured his girls, then in service of his succeeding employer, murders a young woman in the same line of work.
Al no longer cares about anyone but the family. The world abandoned him and left him to die in prison. Only the corleones cared about him to bust him out and give him a life. So knocking a whore off to black mail a politician who was corrupt and no better than Michael means nothing to him.
It's implied that it's neri because as they're reassuring the senator, neri walks by wiping his hands off with a towel, giving a knowing look. It's very symbolic that he's washing his hands of her blood.
I never knew he was a former cop. Really adds so much to the character, especially the hatred of pimps parts.
He was also racist in ths book
"Al can you please get him a drink?!"
- Connie Corleone
She had some nerve with that, but he couldn't really do anything about it
That always cracked me up, Connie asking the top hitter and right hand man of the Family to fetch a drink for her lame brain weasel groom. Poor Al, having to oblige.
@@lyleswann6296 She would of thought of him as a brother or cousin…
Yeah man I remember that it was hilarious
He gave her the death stare lol
The physical appearance of Richard Bright between all three movies is shocking...
I loved the casual way in which he closed the door so that Kay didn't see Michael's induction as Godfather. His slight glance of respect for Kay meant 'sorry, but you understand' kinda look...class act!
Yes but it's Kay
@@dc6461 thanks...amended
Second most loyal guy after tom Hagen for the corleone family
What about Rocco
Luca: *am I a joke to you*
Rocco shot Hyman Roth knowing he was going to be killed.
Nah. Luca is 1.
@@mlowe8100 I meant that was still alive but yes Luca is number 1 if we’re talking all time
Don Corleone killed 16 Czechloslovakians single handedly once. Guy was an interior decorator.
His house looks like shit.
that is too funny baddog410 .you have good writers, tho. in fact, probably the funniest scene on 'the SOPRANOS'.
Don Corleone, whatever happened there?heard he was the strong silent type.
Put Universal remote back on docking station.
@@ricosalvaje5802 What?
Al Neri was one of my favorite unsung characters of all 3 Godfather movies. It was good to see his character expanded more in part 3 and that he was given more dialog in the movie.
Everytime I see Al Neri being asked to do some action, I'm always like "Oh shit. Here we go"
Absolutely, you knew a murder was coming and he used the element of surprise very well.
He was always my favorite character. Always unassuming but as Michael's bodyguard you know he had to be bad news. He could be a poster boy for the saying 'don't mess with people you don't know'.
Al Neri had the makings of a varsity athlete.
LMFAO!!!
Not many men do got to love Junior Suprano though
I liked the character Al Neri. He was cool, matter-of-fact, and lethal. I think that he was more dynamic than Luca Brasi.
All the biographical info on these secondary characters and their side stories - excellent!
Al Neri's background story is one of the most interesting parts of the book. This is saying a lot. While reading this section I felt sympathay, even admiration for the character. However I disagree with the narrator's explanation as to why the wife left him. In addition to fear, it was the wife's naivete and sheltered existence being obliterated when witnessing the extreme harshness of the fine street warrior instrumentment that was Neri's character.
True. Perfect description. Never really realized that Al Neri was in the Godfather 1 or 2.
Al's wife acted rashly. she saw what could when thought it was needed. she didn't see why he did it. she missed the fact he would die to protect his family, including the punk. all she saw was a part of Al she had never seen before. it scared her, sure, but she never realized why she had never seen it.
Al neri’s backstory about being a cop is so fascinating. Its one of my favorites, along with johnny fontaine. Great video my friend. Love coming across people who are well versed in the book. Puzo paints such a dark picture of the wax baines character and how al was punished for it. Not to mention “the flashlight”!!
Neri is one of my favorites
Neri was so classy he had his pinkies up when he shot Barzini.
Dat’s class.
Are you serious, pinkies?where was his middle finger ,think bout it
lol. i read this comment right when the image of him shooting barzini popped up in the video.
In The Sopranos when chris and Silvio go to meet with hitmen one of the hitmen tells a story of when they killed Tommy Neri. And one of the hitmen was richard bright who played al neri.
Thanks for sharing
Was that the old blind guys?
'more silent than a mouse pissing on cotton"
Just fantastic. Thanks for this. And Puzo was a genius.
Al Neri was always one of my favourite characters. Thank you for this video!
Al Neri somehow has similarities with Michael. Once he was a straight person but changed due to the world he witnesses from his point of view. He gradually changed and become someone in the dark world. anyway, Al is a likable persona, he is cool, loyal, effective, and highly skilled.
Your comment is interesting and worth thinking about. While doing so, it occurred to me that both proved themselves as "soldiers" in defense of morality and the establishment before going into the gangster life. Michael was a Marine in World War II and I think I remember Clemenza saying something about how they were proud of what he'd done, which I assume means he'd been decorated for courage in combat. Al's police background demonstrated his courage, too. Another thing: Both of them are cool and low-key. Finally, they move in the same deliberate, slow way.
Police are straight?
If you want to sample Richard Bright's range, re-watch "The Ref" with Dennis Leary. His work as Leary's dim, needy, hapless, alcoholic crime partner "Murray" is the antithesis of the cold take-care-of-business of Al Neri. It's hard to believe it is the same actor. And yet Bright was perfect for both roles.
Excellent review of Neri👍!
Don’t forget Bright played a very sinister “dental assistant” in Marathon Man. Worth a look if anyone’s forgotten.
"It's the quiet ones you have to watch out for."
My favorite Al Nieri Scene is when he makes a warm smirk when The Trio is surprised by Fredo with all The Las Vegas Call Girls in The Hotel Room! What a phenomenal Actor indeed!
I too think that Al Neri deserved a medal instead of being tried in a criminal trial.
Would you have felt that way if Neri was a Black man?
@@2025-e4n shut up
@@iHawke answer the question you racist. You cheer neri who later goes on to do the exact same thing the the pimp does! He killed an innocent prostitute viciously and bloody. Along with killing more innocent people. Why are y’all cheering him?
@@professorxaviour3649: Neri only whacked the hooker because it’s what Corleone ordered, he was accompanied by Hagen too. On the beat as a cop? Neri would’ve never done that, how can he be in the Corleone’s and not want to do what the boss told him?
@@2025-e4n race baiter
Been waiting years for a video on Al Neri. Finally got one of the loyal enforcer/hitman
A Godfather prequel featuring all these characters would be great if not for the fact that modern movies always end up being terrible.
There was one in the works, Mario Puzo died before it could come to fruition.
No wizards. No troubled super heroes. That movie will not get made.
@@meadster308 Isn't that the truth
The scenes in II with DeNiro are our prequel. Not a lot, but it’s enough. Incredible movies
Vito’s wife would push him off the throne or she’s the real “Don”. Something progressive, I’m sure
My favorite character in the series, cool, tough and intelligent. A bodyguard, yes, but he could also give wise counsel.
Richard Bright, I'd always admire you. Your presence was enough to be remembered. Wish I could look like you.
This is another reason why the book is better than the movie. Al Neri has an amazing story in the book on going from cop to a member of Corleone family.
Yes, well, normally books have more detail and backstory than the films based on the book. But if a film had all the details,back stories and sub plots from the book it would be 12 hours long and be too complex too follow.
The audiobook of Godfather and a few others by Mario Puzo are on RUclips. They are good to listen too while working for anyone who doesnt have time to sit down and read.
Film is better
@@el34glo59 I’m glad to hear you say that, although I might not fully agree. Coppola made the book come to life and created cinematic history.
Coppola didn’t like the book. :)
Yeah plus the Luca Brasi story that doesn't make the movie
I am SOOOOO, Happy to see someone, Talking about Al Neri. You don't get any cooler than him. I often pay attention to the characters behind the scenes, not always the main characters.
I always imagined Al's backstory to be a great one. Never knew it actually existed and it didn't dissapoint
Do yourself a favor and read The Godfather.
@@utewbd TRUE DAT!😉👍 One of The Finest books I have ever read!
Here is a dramatized audiobook of The Godfather: ruclips.net/video/iykSc7dAPiE/видео.html
The movie was awesome….. read the book. It’s awesomer. It gives a lot of color and back story to many of the characters.
Gotta read the book. T
I always enjoyed Al Neri and his quiet toughness
I'm glad Mr.Neri is his LONG OVERDUE RESPECT! It's about time. I dug this soldier and his loyalty.
In the RUclips universe it's rare to find videos that actually instruct rather than bait and confuse. A brilliant well made video, thank you! I learned something today...
Every time neri is with michael when meeting someone, he's just be like:
"it's only a matter of time, this crazyman gave me orders to kill you"
Great vid. Al is definitely one of my favorites
Glad I wasn't the only one that had my eye on this guy. Al intrigued me.
Someone should do a film on 'the life and times of Neri'.
This was SUPERB!!
Agreed
I love how the smaller characters have great backstories
These back stories are so good. Thanks for doing them.
Have always been intrigued with Al Neri. What an interesting character. I wonder if they had any idea what a strong presence he'd have in the film?
Thanks for making another interesting video
great backstory.. well done again
Al Neri was the man !!!! Love when he saves Michael from the helicopter attack in Part III
This was not Al Neri
Fantastic Analysis of the Character known as Al Neri. We never knew 'so much more' was written about this Largely Silent Assassin. He was indeed a crafty but loyal Character (and that loyalty worked both ways--- as do all good relationships). Michael was as Master at Creating good relationships--- he was in many ways a Brilliant Manager!
Richard Bright was a great actor. Check him out in Odds Against Tomorrow. He steals every scene he's in.
I always felt that Brasi went down awfully easy for all the hype lavished on him.
Hubris and Double Tapped Thru The Heart does that to a Fella...
Agreed …poor reflexes …no antennae.
Yes
FYI - Richard Bright and Al Pacino were in another film - THE PANIC IN NEEDLE PARK... where they are brothers, and Bright sleeps with Pacino's girlfriend... I think the actor (Bright) died by being hit with a double decker tourist bus in NYC.
Another GREAT backstory!
Thanks!!
Subscribed!!! I love your insight and analysis of my favorite movies!!
Being a marine, Michael could relate to the policeman Al. I knew there had to be more to the the story when Al tapped Barzini's Cadillac and signaled to the chauffeur to get it out of the way. You really see how angry Al got about it. Just that instance brought back memories of diplomats parking wherever they wanted.
@Radium Clock.... It wasn't just because of that.By diverting Barzini's chauffeur away for somewhere else to park it makes it slightly easier to pick him off with his partner next to him without firing at the chauffeur first thus giving Barzini that split second to suddenly run away.Since he couldn't move him,or the chauffeur refused Al then improvised and just faked giving him a ticket to draw out Barzini.
@@aaronclareyloveshr6918 Great observation. Neri already had the toughest task that day - having to take out the highest ranking guy of the five families, plus deal with Barzini's bodyguard, in a public location, at longer range. The ornery chauffeur just added another level of difficulty, which Neri adeptly handled with quick thinking/the ticket act. Then, chauffeur and bodyguard down and precious seconds left, he had the sense to kneel down to stabilize his gun aim at the fleeing Barzini. The perfect hit man.
Every business or Organization needs a Neri or Brasi, its about service and loyality. Not many has it and few can wield it.
Al Neri was quite a gentleman and that can be seen when he closes the door on Kate while she is stunned looking in to the study of Michael where he is receiving respect from his henchmen - just notice that short respectful nod Neri gives Kate as if asking for her understanding and slowly shutting the door down.
Great story. Helped a lot.
I think Neri may be one of my favorite secondary characters in the trilogy. He was key in II, and came into his own with his performance in III, showing he was underutilized in the first two.
That was an exceptionally good job storytelling. You’re very talented! You would be graded doing books on CD stream whatever they caught these days
Thanks very much!
Al Neri's story is similar to the fictional Harry Callahan in ''Dirty Harry''. He cares more about the victims than the rights of the criminal.
That's the way it should be. Victims rights first. Most criminals take advantage of the leniency they are given.
It all well and good until you realize there aren't alot cases that are that cut and try and their likely pulling this trash on.the wrongfully accused quite often.
I love your in-depth background info on these peripheral characters. It gives the movies even more substance to what I'm already aware of, adding yet more levels of interest and intrigue. Great work!
The last book bye Mario Puzzo "Omaratta" go's in to great detail on Al, and it made me appreciate his character a lot more.
Finally, someone mentions the NAME of the book
Isn't it "Omerta"?
@@MexAm120902 I think that's the right spelling, I butchered it by accident
Fascinating and really informative upload.
The booked did a good back story on this guy, too bad the movies didn't show much of it..
I think it would make for a good stand alone movie. It would be like breaking bad but in the Godfather world.
It's how book Luca was a monster but film Luca was just a dumb easily killed enforcer.
ive seen the movies many times. Love them. It's now very apparent i need to read the books. Im enjoying your vids. Thank you.
I'm conflicted on one hand ive been interested in the back stories of characters like al Neri who was totally loyal and a stone cold killer on the other their backgrounds being a mystery does make them scarier
I read The Godfather.
With the information I got, I'm upset the movie wasn't 6 hours.
@@remylucai I would've been okay with that
@@marquesjohnson6359 The Book might be the purest way to enjoy the story.
@@remylucai I keep hearing how much more information is in the book I really need to check it out
A Cop becoming the Top Enforcer of The Killer of Capt. Mcluskey is Ironic Indeed.
Fascinating back story thanks for sharing. I only realized just now that Neri was the cop who killed Barzini.
I love a clip piece that delivers what it promises! This was good! I liked Neri--I like and understand him much better now! My wife says you were true to the novel. I always believe her. Good on you Ranger!
This is brilliant, the details behind the film make the film even better, I think its time that I actually read the book.. I watched your video on Luca, the story about the baby, that hit hard and made luca truly a man to fear..
Did you ever get around to reading it? I'm thinking of starting it.
I was a little disappointed that Neri wasn't given more lines in the first movie, he was a strong figure in the book.
I don’t know what made you make this video but it’s really great. And obviously, everybody else likes it too.
Great, great video. I always was fascinated by that actor's quiet portrayal of one of Mike's right hand men. So I guess it was Rocco who said "Difficult but not impossible." when discussing knocking off old man Roth at the airport. Off the top of my head I thought it was Al.
It was on Rocco's watch the assassins got on the property and tried to kill Michael, Rocco killing Roth was probably a penance for for that blunder of security
Awesome Video! When I first read the books after watching the movies, I was dumbfounded how deadly Al was, one of my favorites definitely of the stories.
The one man in the Corleone outfit who never quarreled with Mike.
Richard Bright (Al Neri) was a close friend of Al Pacino since they were stage actors in NY. Sadly, Bright was struck and killed by a commuter bus while he was crossing the street in Manhattan in 2009.
Excellent video! Great narration and backstory into one of my favorite characters. Subbed!
Excellent stuff again, Al is another who I feel is overlooked. Keep em coming!
He was a very interesting addition to the story and cast.
Finally! A Al Neri video
Fascinating back story.
Out of all the times I’ve heard “the book is better” the Godfather was the first time I truly knew what that means.
I forgot the backstory of Neri. It’s been a long time since I listened to this book.. Love his story and his loyalty to Michael.. Neri was a true gangster
If my memory serves me right, he’s the main playable character in Godfather: Mob Wars in PSP. It was a good game.
24 July 2021 : Sure , he's one of my favorite Godfather movie characters , now. I might mention I have never seen in print the account of Bright's life that you have presented. Even recently I perused an "authoritative" book , and read nothing remarkable. Thank you for discussing Richard Bright.