The best part of the scene is when he leaves the restaurant, and hesitates before dropping the gun. He rehearsed it, but hesitated because his mind was elsewhere. Exactly how it would be in real life!
Yeah they really simply underestimated him. I think the frisking before was just an intimidation tactic. They didn't think he was a threat at all. It's one thing killing another gangster but killing a police Captain is a big deal. In the book the family got some other guy to confess to the murder so Michael could come back to New York.
@@lpr5269 in the book, the frisk going into the bathroom was because Sollozos "spidey sense" was tingling...he couldnt place why he felt in danger though, as they took all precautions they could. Brilliant writing from Puzo, and brilliant direction by Coppola
I remember my English teacher telling the class that the climax of a story or drama is not the dramatic ending, but instead the scene where everything changes. It is this scene where Michael Corleone has to decide whether he’s “in” or he’s “out”. The fact that Michael did not come out of that bathroom “with guns a blazing” as instructed and instead sits down to talk some more, suggests that perhaps he either wasn’t quite ready or perhaps he wanted a few more minutes of “civilian” life. He knows that the moment he pulls that trigger, he’s in the family business for life. And what makes this scene one of the greatest in cinema history, is the way in which Al Pacino portrays (completely nonverbally) Michael’s inner struggle. You are right there with him as he summons the courage to pull out that gun and do what he knows he must do.
The last thing Solozzo said in Sicilian was "We will have peace, but your Family shouldn't interfere anymore." Mike is thinking "Okeedokeee. How's that Veal? Cause that's the last meal you're ever going to eat. Wow that train is loud."
Great commentary, but I feel you've missed a subtle point. Michael goes into the scene as merely an element in his brother's schemes, solving a problem and following strict orders. But in the restroom, he notices the sound of the train, and changes to plan so that he'll commit the assassination the next time it comes around - when the noise and screeching will provide some cover and put his victims off guard. From that point onward, as he takes control of the situation, his destiny is set as the next commander of the family. All it takes is the death of his first wife in Sicily to forge the identity that he'll have as the next Don - incredibly protective and controlling, willing to commit any bad deed in that pursuit, all while thinking that his course is just.
an element in sonny's schemes? killing sollozzo and mcluskey (a corrupt cop who they will out in their own papers) is michael's scheme/plan. also, michael didn't come out shooting because he realized sollozzo and his men were too alert and he had to bide his time.
This wasn't Sonny's scheme. Meeting was set up by Solozzo because Sonny is crazy and will not listen to reason. Barzini must have told Solozzo that Mike is civilian and can be manipulated plus safe as he is not the killing kind. kill them both again was Mike's idea. Sonny is dumb, more brawn than brain. Fredo, no brawn no brain. Mike is the perfect son Don Vito had. After emerging from the toilet, he uses the last few seconds to come to a decision on the step which he will take. Most probably thinking that this is it, there is no going back, no Kay, no army, nothing. He will become a Gangster and stay like that till his death. In fact he did not have any options other than to kill them both. Sonny was bound to get knocked off as he was rash and brash. His Pa also would have another attack on his life and Barzini like Don Ceci has a mean streak, so he would have taken out Fredo and Mike too, just to eliminate the entire family.
While the original hit was Sonny's idea, he was talked out of it by Tom who following a heated argument asked him to take into consideration the then fact that at that juncture, no one had ever gunned down a senior policeman and to do so would have made the family outcasts when even Vito's political and legal allies would have have run for cover. After Sonny reluctantly accepts the advice, Michael it was then who suggested to those assembled that a dirty cop could be executed and his dark connections revealed by elements of the press ' friendly ' to the Corleones, ending his suggestion by replying to Sonny's earlier charge that Michael was getting personal having been slapped by that dirty cop, " It's not personal Sonny. It's strictly business " Thus, the hit had become Michael's plan. ruclips.net/video/by5YzWJ9W4U/видео.html
The real art of The Godfather restaurant scene is that the script and set-up completely puts the audience into alignment with Michael's position so that we feel what the character is feeling. The writer and director take the audience away from the reality of the situation. The reality is that if we were watching a truly realistic situation, Sollozzo and McCluskey would never have been placed in such a vulnerable position without additional protection. In real life, if such a meeting were to be actually held, some of Sollozzo's men would have been stationed outside the restaurant and some would have been seated at another table inside the restaurant. But here they remain unprotected. However, the audience not only suspends that reality, but it never even enters the audience's consciousness because it is so engrossed in Michael's immediate task at hand. That is the true art of the scene.
James Feldman The lack of protection for Solozzo was kind of explained in that Solozzo did not even tell his own people where he was going and that having the police captain with him was supposed to make him invulnerable as no one would gun down a police man. Sonny was only able to find out where the meeting was going to be held through his spy in the police precinct.
even though i agree with you, we never actually question any of their choices which is why the scene is so brilliant, we never feel a decision is stupid or there isn't a moment which takes us out of the film
Hey, and remember that Micheal walks out of the restaunranat alone and passes right in front of their limo with someone behind the wheel. The whole scene is just a set-up for this killing. The meeting has no point.
I think you also overlook the importance of the dialogue and role it plays in a high context co-culture. In this scene Michael is not sure that he can or will kill Solozzo. But when he tells him "What I want. What is most is most important to me is I need a guarantee: no more attempts on my father's life." Solozzo responds with "What guarantees could I give?" Virgil refuses to agree to the most important part of the truce. Instead, he is going to use the truce to organize and take another run at Don Vito. In this moment Michael realizes that he was correct back in his father's study: "He has to kill pop, that is the key for him" and that he will never stop until either he or Vito is dead. It is immediately after this exchange that he excuses himself to the bathroom and decides that he has to kill Solozzo. It is masterful dialogue because it at once subtle but also very clear. In this exchange neither man attempts to give up too much but in the process Virgil gives up everything and it costs him his life.
This is the best shot Al Pacino has given. Perticularly after returning from bathroom ; his reactions while listenig /not listening to Solozzo's giberish .
What an honor for Sterling Hayden to go out like a blazing meteor at the end of his career - first as the mad general in Dr. Strangelove for Kubrick and then here as McCloskey in Godfather for Coppolla. And a personal favorite of mine The Long Goodbye for Robert Altman in whcih Hayden is a revelation and steals the picture! Altman, Kubrick, Coppolla and even John Huston in The Asphalt Jungletreasured his ineffable PRESENCE on the screen.
After McCluskey says, "Alright, let him go", he turns away and snaps his head as though he was saying, "Shit!". McCluskey knew that his outburst was going to set things off and he was right. RIP Sterling Hayden. You were a brilliant actor. Also, his "entrance" to the sound of thunder was brilliant.
I noticed that Michael DIDN'T ask permission to go to the bathroom as Clemenza had previously been drilling into him. Instead he just made a definitive statement "I have to go to the bathroom!" Seems to indicate that he'd decided right from the jump that he'd no intention of Even PRETENDING to be submissive to anyone-EVER!
I think the psychology of Michael in his role in the Italian family has yet to be examined.But this is a very good essay.Its the best analysis to date. thanks
In the original release of the movie, the restaurant scene was edited a little differently than it now appears. I suppose that Coppola made some editing changes after the release, but I have never heard anyone comment on it. In the original version when Michael enters the restaurant he checks out one of Sallozzo's gunmen who is standing guard against a wall. Then, when he shoots first Sallozzo and then McCluskey he looks over at the gunman who throws his gun on the floor and raises his hands slightly in a "no contest" gesture. It is only realistic that despite that Michael didn't have the reputation of a killer, Sallozzo would not have gone to the meeting without backup. I have watched the DVD versions and in every one of them Sallozzo's gunman has disappeared entirely. I suppose Coppola felt that the gunman's scene's slowed down the whole progression of the action, but no one who saw the original seems to have felt that way. The sequence works either way, but editing the film after its theatrical release has always seemed like cheating a little bit to me.
@@paulzenev4346 I am 100% sure. McCloskey is not the bodyguard. He's not even packing. He's the insurance. In fact you can still see the gunman in the wider scene in the restaurant. He's the guy standing in the rear. There's no other reason for a guy to be standing in the rear of the restaurant during the meet. I find it very odd that no one else has ever commented on this post-release editing change.
The best American Film in history. Sorry Citizen Kane, The Godfather is the perfect film. Shakespearean in scope, script and execution. I can see it one hundred more times and I love it more each time I see it.
Brilliant analysis. It makes you appreciate movies like this even more. The Craft of film making. How it's a team effort, and to have a good crew who are on form, can make classics like this.
Ugh this movie, this movie, this movie. This scene to me was perfection if not all scenes. But the look in his eyes, it said so much wirth just his eyes. You can see him thinking hard about this decision of shooting them both, then you see hesitation, you see fear, then you see pain, it's almost like on his mind he started thinking about what they did to his father, which then brought on anger in his eyes, until his eyes are just filled more and more with anger, rage, and fear, and in that moment he gets up and just shoots. It's so brillant, mostly thanks to Pacino's acting. Wow
Michael did not kill his brother, he had his brother killed. This always showed Michael was a coward and could not kill his brother himself after his brothers betrayal.
Your comparisons need to be rejected and restated. Apples are crisp and delicious. Oranges are juicy and satisfying. Both are not the same. The Godfather I & II was the exceptional climax to the late 60's through early-to-mid 70's gritty crime dramas. Yes GF I & II are masterpieces. Now let that be as 1977-1982 takes over with a new experience for the cinema-goers. Circa 1977, the general public were drenched in hardened and blood-soaked thrillers, which left a void for families with children who needed heroes, excitement, and fantasy. Remember, Jimmy Carter was president, terrorists were abound, and inflation and stagnation (stagflation) was choking the economy. Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back, The Blues Brothers, Raiders of the Lost Ark, E.T., etc. brought smiles, cheers and exhilaration to the Silver Screen again. The depressive air had to clear...at least for a period of time.
This scene is part three of the 'transition'. First, his father is gunned down. Michael goes to the hospital and protects his father and says "I'm here now". The moment of crossover. Part two is Michael masterminding the meeting with Solatzo, and part three being this scene which confirms the transition.
A brilliant commentary on a brilliant scene. When I first saw the film as a teenager, I thought the sound of the elevated train was meant to signify the sound of artillery fire in Michael's mind, as though he were experiencing a "flashback" to the war in the Pacific. What we today call PTSD.
Very interesting. After this commentary though, I feel the sound of the El was a bit forced. It may have been better to show the El structure when the car pulls up to the restaurant and have the sound then. Also, what happened to Lou, the driver and the car? I would think that he would stay parked out front in case anything happened. Or there should have been a gun battle outside between the two families. A little nitpicking, but when you start analyzing and get into all the details...
Al Pacino as Michael Corleone---most certainly brilliant. But veteran actor Sterling Hayden? Overlooked. Al Lettieri as Virgil Solozzo? Very, very, very overlooked. Lettieri was absolutely perfect, absolutely brilliant. Why has his performance been overlooked?
Of course one of the reasons Godfather is one of the greatest movies, if not THE greatest, ever is the unbelievable strength of all the minor parts - you could have given the movie about six or seven "Best Supporting Actor" Oscars. That takes a great script and great direction.
I figured the reason for no subtitles was because of Michael's struggles with the Italian-language? This even seems hinted at by his quick glance at Captain McCluskey prior to switching back to English.
Actually the reason there are no subtitles is that the actor was speaking in Sicilian so quickly that it was decided that the subtitles would have to be shown at a speed too fast for the audience.
This is the scene that saved this movie. At this time Paramount Pictures was run by a bunch of idiots who had no idea about how to make films. They disapproved of all of Francis Ford Coppola's ideas and wanted to basically make a film for a low budget to capitalize on the popularity of the book. They were ready to fire FFC after the first week and then he shot this scene. After they saw it, they got out of the way a little more and let the man make his masterpiece.
The restaurant event was no surprise, however. We knew Michael would do the deed and the ambition of the film was no secret. All that happened confirmed our bias, had he failed would have been the real shock. We anticipated the flavors of the dish, and the chef complied with subtlety and precision to make it taste new. No major life lessons, just artistry and craft.
The two scene in the movie I thought that you can see Michael change in front of your eyes. 1st. when he explained how he would kill Solozzo and McCluskey. Then in his eyes, the change is complete when he shoots both of them. He now part of the family, and do anything to keep his family safe and still being powerful but quietly.
I did notice at 12:04 Michael stands up and shoots McClusky in the throat when he does you can see what looks like a shot in his forehead and what looks like blood but Michael doesnt shoot him in the head untill the next frame.
mighele exits the washroom,stops to stare at the two, a paisan thinks 'what you starin at?sits down listens to sollazzo talk of ending the war,,,,,the elevated train rumbles above,sollazzo is still yacking,mikes eyes start dancing, 'eh mike?!!,what ya thinkin,,you alright??'
"The story also suggests that when organized business gets big AND IS NOT CONTROLLED BY THE GOVERNMENT it becomes corrupt". -- What? ...now who's being naive?
Here is another interesting detail: remember when Clemenza is instructing Michael about the killing, he tells Michael that he intentionally left or made the gun louder than normal - "....to scare away any pain in the ass bystanders.."!!
I've seen the movie many times and always loved it but, I see things that just don't seem quite right, like they had no guards around, not even the driver stuck around?
Yes, his Italian fails him (was never fluent in it anyway) but what prompts Michael to change to English IMHO was the disgusted look he gives Solozzo after glancing at McCluskey stuffing his face with the veal.
The restaurant scene was shot not to far from my hs.there were overhead subway that caused alot of problems during shooting.the restaurant was really a bakery at least that is what i heard.they used it because it really had that type of toilet. they had to add the gun though.lol.
I promise that's definitely Italian, not Sicilian. Plus the fact that Michael can't speak Sicilian. When he's in Sicily he has to get his bodyguard to translate.
Na, it's Italian. Remember Sollozzo is Turkish, not Sicilian - it's not his native tongue. And Italian, not Sicilian, was the language of the Italian immigrant community - Sicilians had to learn Italian in America (not hard - they are close). In GF2 de Niro as the young adult Vito speaks Italian, not Sicilian.
Notice at the beginning this narrator's pronunciation of "Coppola". This is EXACTLY how all of my Italian-American relatives and friends say it. In Italian, the second of three syllables is always accented. Thus: Cuh-PO-lah. Good job!
@@studogable What am I looking for in this 27+ minute video? Bottom line: in my blue collar neighborhood, we Italian-Americans pronounced the name as stated above. The rule applies. Second syllable in Italian names is always emphasized: Rih-ZOO-toe, Sal-VAH-tee, Lum-BAR-doe, Coe-LUM-boe, Fer-ARE-ee, Roe-MAHN-o, Muh-REE-noe. Find me just ONE three syllable last name where actual Italians emphasize the first syllable.
@@AnnieVanAuken the timestamp above should take you to 6:50 of the clip above, where Coppola says his name. It seems that I have found your one Italian.
In Italian, a double 'z' is pronounced 'st,' as in 'pizza.' Virgil Sollozzo's name, therefore, should be pronounced 'Sollotso,' not 'Sollonzo' or whatever the hell you were saying.
Your statement about a critic of capitalism is not very strong and misplaced to be honest. But your bit about the lack of subtitle and narrowed attention to body language is extraordinarily accurate, I felt exactly what you said when I watched (rewatched actually) this scene. I don't speak Italian yet I understood much of what was being said just by looking closely at the way they spoke. Even though I don't agree with everything you said, the good points you made were very impressive, kudos to you my friend.
Regardless of how one may feel about the statement itself, the video is correct that this was Coppola's intention. He says it in various interviews and even wrote it to Marlon Brando when he asked him to act in Part II: faroutmagazine.co.uk/francis-ford-coppola-marlon-brando-the-godfather-ii-letter/
Hard to pay attention to this when COPpola is pronounced as copPOALA. And SolOZZO (solOTSO) as solOAZO. These details go with in-depth analyses, don’t you think?
Who knew The Godfather was all just a multimedia essay on the evils of government deregulation? Certainly not Puzo or Coppolla. It's disappointing when people insert their own beliefs and inclinations into a great work of art, where they are obviously not present.
Respect4Intellect well the film portrays the only real power as those “entrepreneurs” of the mafia and the police are portrayed as puppets of the mafia.
Maybe this is a dumb question, but when did editors begin using colorgrading? The colors really explode off the screen. Is that just a natural quality of shooting on film? Thank you for posting this.
They are definitely speaking Italian. If you have seen the film you will remember that Michael can't speak Sicilian. When he's hiding in Sicily he needs an interpreter.
Well done, Patryk. We would be thrilled if you would check out our three-part web series, "The Goddaughter", based on the "The Godfather". It concerns the second daughter of Michael Corleone, raised in Sicily, who comes to the U.S. to restore honor to the Corleone legacy.
They weren't speaking standard Italian, they were speaking Sicilian dialect. Secondly, steroids are not bad for the organism in the long run unless its abused. Low testosterone in men causes heart disease.
To me the shooting in the restaurant scene is completely and totally carried by Pacino . He was brilliant . He was the Godfather through the entire Godfather trilogy . HIs transformation to the "dark side" so speak is palpable to watch . I will never understand how Al Pacino went so long in this industry clocking up many brilliant performances before being recognised with an Oscar win . Maybe that's just crazy jealous , and not mention political old Hollywood for you .
Plot hole: wasn't Solozzo' s driver parked out front? Why didn't he rush in with gun drawn when he heard gunfire? Why didn't he shoot Michael dead when Michael walked out the front door?
The best part of the scene is when he leaves the restaurant, and hesitates before dropping the gun. He rehearsed it, but hesitated because his mind was elsewhere. Exactly how it would be in real life!
Greg Maffei great observation Greg Maffei
Perfect
I just realized why he should “come out blasting” - they might have frisked him again before he sat back down
Yeah they really simply underestimated him. I think the frisking before was just an intimidation tactic. They didn't think he was a threat at all. It's one thing killing another gangster but killing a police Captain is a big deal. In the book the family got some other guy to confess to the murder so Michael could come back to New York.
@@lpr5269 in the book, the frisk going into the bathroom was because Sollozos "spidey sense" was tingling...he couldnt place why he felt in danger though, as they took all precautions they could.
Brilliant writing from Puzo, and brilliant direction by Coppola
I remember my English teacher telling the class that the climax of a story or drama is not the dramatic ending, but instead the scene where everything changes. It is this scene where Michael Corleone has to decide whether he’s “in” or he’s “out”. The fact that Michael did not come out of that bathroom “with guns a blazing” as instructed and instead sits down to talk some more, suggests that perhaps he either wasn’t quite ready or perhaps he wanted a few more minutes of “civilian” life. He knows that the moment he pulls that trigger, he’s in the family business for life. And what makes this scene one of the greatest in cinema history, is the way in which Al Pacino portrays (completely nonverbally) Michael’s inner struggle. You are right there with him as he summons the courage to pull out that gun and do what he knows he must do.
The last thing Solozzo said in Sicilian was "We will have peace, but your Family shouldn't interfere anymore." Mike is thinking "Okeedokeee. How's that Veal? Cause that's the last meal you're ever going to eat. Wow that train is loud."
Great commentary, but I feel you've missed a subtle point. Michael goes into the scene as merely an element in his brother's schemes, solving a problem and following strict orders. But in the restroom, he notices the sound of the train, and changes to plan so that he'll commit the assassination the next time it comes around - when the noise and screeching will provide some cover and put his victims off guard. From that point onward, as he takes control of the situation, his destiny is set as the next commander of the family. All it takes is the death of his first wife in Sicily to forge the identity that he'll have as the next Don - incredibly protective and controlling, willing to commit any bad deed in that pursuit, all while thinking that his course is just.
an element in sonny's schemes? killing sollozzo and mcluskey (a corrupt cop who they will out in their own papers) is michael's scheme/plan. also, michael didn't come out shooting because he realized sollozzo and his men were too alert and he had to bide his time.
This wasn't Sonny's scheme. Meeting was set up by Solozzo because Sonny is crazy and will not listen to reason. Barzini must have told Solozzo that Mike is civilian and can be manipulated plus safe as he is not the killing kind. kill them both again was Mike's idea. Sonny is dumb, more brawn than brain. Fredo, no brawn no brain. Mike is the perfect son Don Vito had.
After emerging from the toilet, he uses the last few seconds to come to a decision on the step which he will take. Most probably thinking that this is it, there is no going back, no Kay, no army, nothing. He will become a Gangster and stay like that till his death. In fact he did not have any options other than to kill them both. Sonny was bound to get knocked off as he was rash and brash. His Pa also would have another attack on his life and Barzini like Don Ceci has a mean streak, so he would have taken out Fredo and Mike too, just to eliminate the entire family.
While the original hit was Sonny's idea, he was talked out of it by Tom who following a heated argument asked him to take into consideration the then fact that at that juncture, no one had ever gunned down a senior policeman and to do so would have made the family outcasts when even Vito's political and legal allies would have have run for cover. After Sonny reluctantly accepts the advice, Michael it was then who suggested to those assembled that a dirty cop could be executed and his dark connections revealed by elements of the press ' friendly ' to the Corleones, ending his suggestion by replying to Sonny's earlier charge that Michael was getting personal having been slapped by that dirty cop, " It's not personal Sonny. It's strictly business "
Thus, the hit had become Michael's plan.
ruclips.net/video/by5YzWJ9W4U/видео.html
OrchestrationOnline good point.
He,s also told to ask permission to go to the bathroom he doesn't ask for permission.another subtle sign that he is a leader .
The real art of The Godfather restaurant scene is that the script and set-up completely puts the audience into alignment with Michael's position so that we feel what the character is feeling. The writer and director take the audience away from the reality of the situation. The reality is that if we were watching a truly realistic situation, Sollozzo and McCluskey would never have been placed in such a vulnerable position without additional protection. In real life, if such a meeting were to be actually held, some of Sollozzo's men would have been stationed outside the restaurant and some would have been seated at another table inside the restaurant. But here they remain unprotected. However, the audience not only suspends that reality, but it never even enters the audience's consciousness because it is so engrossed in Michael's immediate task at hand. That is the true art of the scene.
James Feldman The lack of protection for Solozzo was kind of explained in that Solozzo did not even tell his own people where he was going and that having the police captain with him was supposed to make him invulnerable as no one would gun down a police man. Sonny was only able to find out where the meeting was going to be held through his spy in the police precinct.
even though i agree with you, we never actually question any of their choices which is why the scene is so brilliant, we never feel a decision is stupid or there isn't a moment which takes us out of the film
Hey, and remember that Micheal walks out of the restaunranat alone and passes right in front of their limo with someone behind the wheel. The whole scene is just a set-up for this killing. The meeting has no point.
The protection of Sollozzo was Mccluskey. Nobody on his right mind would ever dare to attack a police captain, or that was what they thought...
James Feldman Exactl
Man you should keep making videos like this, you would rule youtube.
How right you would’ve been
Coppola is a master of sound, something that needs more acknowledgment and attention. The sound design in GF I&II and Apocalypse are amazing.
and the Conversation!
He didn't destroy the family he led his family to a level of power, fortune, and influence that his father could only dream if
I think you also overlook the importance of the dialogue and role it plays in a high context co-culture. In this scene Michael is not sure that he can or will kill Solozzo. But when he tells him "What I want. What is most is most important to me is I need a guarantee: no more attempts on my father's life." Solozzo responds with "What guarantees could I give?" Virgil refuses to agree to the most important part of the truce. Instead, he is going to use the truce to organize and take another run at Don Vito. In this moment Michael realizes that he was correct back in his father's study: "He has to kill pop, that is the key for him" and that he will never stop until either he or Vito is dead. It is immediately after this exchange that he excuses himself to the bathroom and decides that he has to kill Solozzo. It is masterful dialogue because it at once subtle but also very clear. In this exchange neither man attempts to give up too much but in the process Virgil gives up everything and it costs him his life.
phill samuels yes, yes, Phill
Well done, Phil Samuels. Well done.
This is the best shot Al Pacino has given. Perticularly after returning from bathroom ; his reactions while listenig /not listening to Solozzo's giberish .
HAHAHA! Giberish?!
What an honor for Sterling Hayden to go out like a blazing meteor at the end of his career - first as the mad general in Dr. Strangelove for Kubrick and then here as McCloskey in Godfather for Coppolla. And a personal favorite of mine The Long Goodbye for Robert Altman in whcih Hayden is a revelation and steals the picture! Altman, Kubrick, Coppolla and even John Huston in The Asphalt Jungletreasured his ineffable PRESENCE on the screen.
If it weren't for tax problems, Hayden was the first choice for Quint in Jaws.
After McCluskey says, "Alright, let him go", he turns away and snaps his head as though he was saying, "Shit!". McCluskey knew that his outburst was going to set things off and he was right.
RIP Sterling Hayden. You were a brilliant actor.
Also, his "entrance" to the sound of thunder was brilliant.
I noticed that Michael DIDN'T ask permission to go to the bathroom as Clemenza had previously been drilling into him. Instead he just made a definitive statement "I have to go to the bathroom!"
Seems to indicate that he'd decided right from the jump that he'd no intention of Even PRETENDING to be submissive to anyone-EVER!
I think he stated he had to go first, but then quickly asked if it was ok. I could be wrong.
@@robertbeckman2054 Confirming 1 year later but yes, he does ask if it's okay.
THE SCENE THAT SAVED COPPOLA FROM BEING FIRED
Actually, the scene that saved Al Pacino from being fired (see the "Making Of" segment on the Godfather DVD).
I think the psychology of Michael in his role in the Italian family has yet to be examined.But this is a very good essay.Its the best analysis to date. thanks
In the original release of the movie, the restaurant scene was edited a little differently than it now appears. I suppose that Coppola made some editing changes after the release, but I have never heard anyone comment on it. In the original version when Michael enters the restaurant he checks out one of Sallozzo's gunmen who is standing guard against a wall. Then, when he shoots first Sallozzo and then McCluskey he looks over at the gunman who throws his gun on the floor and raises his hands slightly in a "no contest" gesture. It is only realistic that despite that Michael didn't have the reputation of a killer, Sallozzo would not have gone to the meeting without backup.
I have watched the DVD versions and in every one of them Sallozzo's gunman has disappeared entirely. I suppose Coppola felt that the gunman's scene's slowed down the whole progression of the action, but no one who saw the original seems to have felt that way. The sequence works either way, but editing the film after its theatrical release has always seemed like cheating a little bit to me.
Are you sure about all this..?? Remember Mckloskey is Solozzo's "bodyguard"..!!
@@paulzenev4346 I am 100% sure. McCloskey is not the bodyguard. He's not even packing. He's the insurance. In fact you can still see the gunman in the wider scene in the restaurant. He's the guy standing in the rear. There's no other reason for a guy to be standing in the rear of the restaurant during the meet.
I find it very odd that no one else has ever commented on this post-release editing change.
The best American Film in history. Sorry Citizen Kane, The Godfather is the perfect film. Shakespearean in scope, script and execution. I can see it one hundred more times and I love it more each time I see it.
the lack of subtitles cleverly makes the audience feel smart- because they realize they can still understand what the men are saying
Ye
Yes
Ok
Dan
Funebake
Brilliant analysis. It makes you appreciate movies like this even more. The Craft of film making. How it's a team effort, and to have a good crew who are on form, can make classics like this.
Ugh this movie, this movie, this movie. This scene to me was perfection if not all scenes. But the look in his eyes, it said so much wirth just his eyes. You can see him thinking hard about this decision of shooting them both, then you see hesitation, you see fear, then you see pain, it's almost like on his mind he started thinking about what they did to his father, which then brought on anger in his eyes, until his eyes are just filled more and more with anger, rage, and fear, and in that moment he gets up and just shoots. It's so brillant, mostly thanks to Pacino's acting. Wow
Family loyalty. Michael waited until his mother was dead before he killed his brother. 😐
Michael did not kill his brother, he had his brother killed. This always showed Michael was a coward and could not kill his brother himself after his brothers betrayal.
@@johnletourneau6176 a don never does the hit himself. Don’t think it makes him a coward
@@JollyWailmer If your own brother betrays you, that is blood, you kill them yourself. Don or not...period!
Before Star Wars, before the dawn of superhero movies, we have The Godfather. Which Star Wars and superhero movies will never top
Your comparisons need to be rejected and restated. Apples are crisp and delicious. Oranges are juicy and satisfying. Both are not the same. The Godfather I & II was the exceptional climax to the late 60's through early-to-mid 70's gritty crime dramas. Yes GF I & II are masterpieces. Now let that be as 1977-1982 takes over with a new experience for the cinema-goers. Circa 1977, the general public were drenched in hardened and blood-soaked thrillers, which left a void for families with children who needed heroes, excitement, and fantasy. Remember, Jimmy Carter was president, terrorists were abound, and inflation and stagnation (stagflation) was choking the economy. Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back, The Blues Brothers, Raiders of the Lost Ark, E.T., etc. brought smiles, cheers and exhilaration to the Silver Screen again. The depressive air had to clear...at least for a period of time.
Great video, providing a lot of background and analytical information. Thank you!
Corstiaan Van Pelt and
This scene is part three of the 'transition'. First, his father is gunned down. Michael goes to the hospital and protects his father and says "I'm here now". The moment of crossover. Part two is Michael masterminding the meeting with Solatzo, and part three being this scene which confirms the transition.
A brilliant commentary on a brilliant scene.
When I first saw the film as a teenager, I thought the sound of the elevated train was meant to signify the sound of artillery fire in Michael's mind, as though he were experiencing a "flashback" to the war in the Pacific. What we today call PTSD.
Very interesting. After this commentary though, I feel the sound of the El was a bit forced. It may have been better to show the El structure when the car pulls up to the restaurant and have the sound then.
Also, what happened to Lou, the driver and the car? I would think that he would stay parked out front in case anything happened. Or there should have been a gun battle outside between the two families.
A little nitpicking, but when you start analyzing and get into all the details...
Al Pacino as Michael Corleone---most certainly brilliant. But veteran actor Sterling Hayden? Overlooked. Al Lettieri as Virgil Solozzo? Very, very, very overlooked. Lettieri was absolutely perfect, absolutely brilliant. Why has his performance been overlooked?
It has not, this is his scene. The other appearances were just ramping up to this climax.
Of course one of the reasons Godfather is one of the greatest movies, if not THE greatest, ever is the unbelievable strength of all the minor parts - you could have given the movie about six or seven "Best Supporting Actor" Oscars. That takes a great script and great direction.
I figured the reason for no subtitles was because of Michael's struggles with the Italian-language? This even seems hinted at by his quick glance at Captain McCluskey prior to switching back to English.
Good point
Indeed. I hadn't thought of this - Michael doesn't speak much more Italian than the audience.
Truly fortunate to have lived, to enjoy the entire trilogy of the family! of Godfather I. 2 and 3! a forever Masterpiece💋
I watched each of them countless times. Brilliant!
i refuse to watch 3
Very nicely done! Thank you for making this.
Thank You! I am happy to hear that!
This film should have honoured Al Pacino with an Oscar!!!!!
But you can only give one "Best Actor" Oscar a year. Are you going to take it away from Brando's awesome performance?
@@kenoliver8913 pacino was nominated for supporting actor (strange, since he was in this movie a lot more) so did not compete with brando.
Actually the reason there are no subtitles is that the actor was speaking in Sicilian so quickly that it was decided that the subtitles would have to be shown at a speed too fast for the audience.
I'm glad you said Sicilian, because they were not speaking in standard Italian. I commented on this as well.
Another brilliant tactic of Michael Corleone:
Give a guy one more chance, but don't tell him you're giving him one more chance.
Can't beat Louis Restaurant. Eatin' good Italian pasta dishes, to a floor show of Bad Guys getting bullets upside the head!
This is the scene that saved this movie. At this time Paramount Pictures was run by a bunch of idiots who had no idea about how to make films. They disapproved of all of Francis Ford Coppola's ideas and wanted to basically make a film for a low budget to capitalize on the popularity of the book.
They were ready to fire FFC after the first week and then he shot this scene. After they saw it, they got out of the way a little more and let the man make his masterpiece.
The restaurant event was no surprise, however. We knew Michael would do the deed and the ambition of the film was no secret. All that happened confirmed our bias, had he failed would have been the real shock. We anticipated the flavors of the dish, and the chef complied with subtlety and precision to make it taste new. No major life lessons, just artistry and craft.
The restaurant Louis was in the Bronx under the 2 train at the Gun hill road station,West corner
Business is corrupt if it is not controlled by government? Government makes things clean? That is absurd.
good info on this iconic masterpiece!
Excellent commentary report! 👏🏼
This is why i always prefer GF 1 to GF 2, the attention to detail is CRAZY!
The two scene in the movie I thought that you can see Michael change in front of your eyes. 1st. when he explained how he would kill Solozzo and McCluskey. Then in his eyes, the change is complete when he shoots both of them. He now part of the family, and do anything to keep his family safe and still being powerful but quietly.
Great analysis. Thank you
I did notice at 12:04 Michael stands up and shoots McClusky in the throat when he does you can see what looks like a shot in his forehead and what looks like blood but Michael doesnt shoot him in the head untill the next frame.
you deserved more subs. great video
This is really excellent and makes me look at the scene with fresh eyes!
Just a small note, there's no "n" in "Sollozzo".
IgnatzKolisch the word Solozzo in italian means "quite alone"
I feel the sound of the train before Michael kills Solozzo and McCluskey signifies the "one way track" of Michael becoming a criminal
The part about a critique of capitalism is pure silliness on your part. Talk about digging for what you want to be there.
Coppola stated this explicitly: faroutmagazine.co.uk/francis-ford-coppola-marlon-brando-the-godfather-ii-letter/
mighele exits the washroom,stops to stare at the two, a paisan thinks 'what you starin at?sits down listens to sollazzo talk of ending the war,,,,,the elevated train rumbles above,sollazzo is still yacking,mikes eyes start dancing, 'eh mike?!!,what ya thinkin,,you alright??'
He didn't take a step towards destroying his family, he takes steps towards saving his family......
Billy b to kill is to destroy
Loving all things Godfather! 💌💕 Thanks for sharing this. 🙏🏻
"The story also suggests that when organized business gets big AND IS NOT CONTROLLED BY THE GOVERNMENT it becomes corrupt". -- What? ...now who's being naive?
yeah, thats a stupid assumption considering government is even more corrupt
That was when I stopped watching the video.
Pundit Planet Media I understand Pundit
Here is another interesting detail: remember when Clemenza is instructing Michael about the killing, he tells Michael that he intentionally left or made the gun louder than normal - "....to scare away any pain in the ass bystanders.."!!
Great video pal !
14 thousand views.. Wow! Very impressive Patryk - hope you are doing well!
Very good stuff, Patryk. Your voice has changed a lot since I last saw you ;) - Brien from Video & Sound Tech.
Thanks Brien! haha ! yea thanks to my friend Jed i didn't have to use my voice ;)
Solonzo? Cmon mate do your research.....
I've seen the movie many times and always loved it but, I see things that just don't seem quite right, like they had no guards around, not even the driver stuck around?
Ca-PO-la? No one pronounces it like that.
Great video! Thanks!
I used to be in a band and whenever we played a restaurant, we always told the crowd to "Try the veal ...".
Yes, his Italian fails him (was never fluent in it anyway) but what prompts Michael to change to English IMHO was the disgusted look he gives Solozzo after glancing at McCluskey stuffing his face with the veal.
The restaurant scene was shot not to far from my hs.there were overhead subway that caused alot of problems during shooting.the restaurant was really a bakery at least that is what i heard.they used it because it really had that type of toilet. they had to add the gun though.lol.
Outstanding. You should do more and dedicate a channel to it.
Excellent video.
Thank You!
Solozzo : pronounced ‘ Solotzo’ . As pointed out below Michael & Virgil were speaking in Sicilian not Italian. Completely different languages.
👀
I promise that's definitely Italian, not Sicilian. Plus the fact that Michael can't speak Sicilian. When he's in Sicily he has to get his bodyguard to translate.
Na, it's Italian. Remember Sollozzo is Turkish, not Sicilian - it's not his native tongue. And Italian, not Sicilian, was the language of the Italian immigrant community - Sicilians had to learn Italian in America (not hard - they are close). In GF2 de Niro as the young adult Vito speaks Italian, not Sicilian.
this clip is better then anything made today.
Notice at the beginning this narrator's pronunciation of "Coppola". This is EXACTLY how all of my Italian-American relatives and friends say it. In Italian, the second of three syllables is always accented. Thus: Cuh-PO-lah. Good job!
Interesting. This is the only time I have ever heard the name pronounced that way.
@@studogable Trust me. As a joke, Jimmy Cuh-PO-lah once BB gun shot me in the ass from 20 yards away.
You don't forget such stinging memories.
@@AnnieVanAuken you were saying?
ruclips.net/video/uHN8pgW44Q4/видео.html
@@studogable What am I looking for in this 27+ minute video? Bottom line: in my blue collar neighborhood, we Italian-Americans pronounced the name as stated above. The rule applies. Second syllable in Italian names is always emphasized: Rih-ZOO-toe, Sal-VAH-tee, Lum-BAR-doe, Coe-LUM-boe, Fer-ARE-ee, Roe-MAHN-o, Muh-REE-noe. Find me just ONE three syllable last name where actual Italians emphasize the first syllable.
@@AnnieVanAuken the timestamp above should take you to 6:50 of the clip above, where Coppola says his name.
It seems that I have found your one Italian.
Great vid.
Thank you sir!
sweet analysis, with fine selection what 2 analyse!
great video
"We're going to Jersey?" "Maybe"
Great video
In Italian, a double 'z' is pronounced 'st,' as in 'pizza.' Virgil Sollozzo's name, therefore, should be pronounced 'Sollotso,' not 'Sollonzo' or whatever the hell you were saying.
Your statement about a critic of capitalism is not very strong and misplaced to be honest. But your bit about the lack of subtitle and narrowed attention to body language is extraordinarily accurate, I felt exactly what you said when I watched (rewatched actually) this scene. I don't speak Italian yet I understood much of what was being said just by looking closely at the way they spoke. Even though I don't agree with everything you said, the good points you made were very impressive, kudos to you my friend.
Regardless of how one may feel about the statement itself, the video is correct that this was Coppola's intention. He says it in various interviews and even wrote it to Marlon Brando when he asked him to act in Part II: faroutmagazine.co.uk/francis-ford-coppola-marlon-brando-the-godfather-ii-letter/
WRONG - 3:25, he had already made a lot more mistakes before that one.
Great film, even better book.
You forgot to include Coppola as an Oscar winner for Best Adapted Screenplay, since he wrote the film with Puzo.
Hard to pay attention to this when COPpola is pronounced as copPOALA. And SolOZZO (solOTSO) as solOAZO. These details go with in-depth analyses, don’t you think?
Why do the British insist on mispronouncing last names?
We don’t do it on purpose sunshine
Those who RULE or have RULED are allowed to mispronounce the names of their former or current subjects.
I’m sorry, but it’s So-lot-so not So-low-zo
Potato potahto
🤣
Who knew The Godfather was all just a multimedia essay on the evils of government deregulation? Certainly not Puzo or Coppolla. It's disappointing when people insert their own beliefs and inclinations into a great work of art, where they are obviously not present.
Respect4Intellect well the film portrays the only real power as those “entrepreneurs” of the mafia and the police are portrayed as puppets of the mafia.
Certainly Coppola: faroutmagazine.co.uk/francis-ford-coppola-marlon-brando-the-godfather-ii-letter/
This movie is why I order the veal in every restaurant I visit.
CAP OWE LAAAAAA.....everytime you say it its funny.
There is no N in Sollozzo!
They weren't speaking Italian, they were speaking Sicilian dialect.
Maybe this is a dumb question, but when did editors begin using colorgrading? The colors really explode off the screen. Is that just a natural quality of shooting on film? Thank you for posting this.
What's the song at 9:20?
Michael become the very thing Don Vito didn’t want, himself
Can the essay pronounce Coppola’s last name correctly?
"...Big not controlled by the government, it becomes corrupt" or the gov becomes the corrupter.
Sir ! ------------" They" are not speaking Italian -------they are speaking Sicilian ; a very different language. ------------------WolfSky9, 73 y/o
----------
TOMAYTOES TOMARTOES.. SAME LINGO... DIFFERENT DIALECT
They are definitely speaking Italian. If you have seen the film you will remember that Michael can't speak Sicilian. When he's hiding in Sicily he needs an interpreter.
Solonzo?
The restaurant meeting would never have happened in real life.
Mark Harrison real life, ... what is that?
Well done, Patryk. We would be thrilled if you would check out our three-part web series, "The Goddaughter", based on the "The Godfather". It concerns the second daughter of Michael Corleone, raised in Sicily, who comes to the U.S. to restore honor to the Corleone legacy.
Rest in past
They weren't speaking standard Italian, they were speaking Sicilian dialect.
Secondly, steroids are not bad for the organism in the long run unless its abused. Low testosterone in men causes heart disease.
That's definitely Italian. Michael can't speak Sicilian anyway as later in the film when he's in Sicily he uses an interpreter.
To me the shooting in the restaurant scene is completely and totally carried by Pacino . He was brilliant . He was the Godfather through the entire Godfather trilogy . HIs transformation to the "dark side" so speak is palpable to watch . I will never understand how Al Pacino went so long in this industry clocking up many brilliant performances before being recognised with an Oscar win . Maybe that's just crazy jealous , and not mention political old Hollywood for you .
I fell in Love with Pacino from this moment on throughout his career including his recent Prime Video series “Hunters” with Logan Lerman.
Great essay. But "Sollonzo"? Come on!
Plot hole: wasn't Solozzo' s driver parked out front? Why didn't he rush in with gun drawn when he heard gunfire? Why didn't he shoot Michael dead when Michael walked out the front door?
Im guessing the driver was part of the plan
BecaUSE THE SCRIPT DID NOT REQUIRE THAT AND NEITHER DID THE ORIGINAL STORY.