Harlan Lebo

A good account of the making of one of the 20th century's best films about Italian-Americans by Italian-Americans. Compared to the giant production troubles and delays of Apocalypse Now (as told in the documentary film "Hearts of Darkness"), the production of the Godfather was a cakewalk, a coincidence of fortunate events and serendipitous choices: The nurturing of an aspiring writer who produced a bestseller, the selection of a young director, the casting mix of old stars and new faces as well as an iconic art direction. Coppola made the Godfather, and the Godfather made Coppola (and Al Pacino and Robert De Niro and a host of other Italian-Americans). While the title talks about the Godfather Legacy, Part II and III are only covered in only a few pages. Especially the last part (and its lesser success) would have merited coverage. Recommended.… (mais)