The Godfather as a Gangster Film: Michael Corleone’s Transformation and Decay of the American Dream

Use of a Gangster Film Convention in The Godfather

One convention of gangster movies is portraying complex characters who navigate moral ambiguity. The Godfather exemplifies this convention by depicting Michael Corleone’s transformation from an initially reluctant and innocent character to a calculating and ruthless mafia leader. As the film progresses, Michael is drawn into the family’s criminal world and takes control, significantly impacting the Corleone family’s dynamics.

This moral transformation is evident when Michael says, “It’s not personal, Sonny. It’s strictly business.” This quote showcases the shift in Michael’s values as he embraces the ruthless ethos of the mafia. The portrayal of Michael’s journey gives the film depth and complexity, resulting in more than just a straightforward crime drama and highlighting the human cost of power and ambition within the criminal underworld.

Analysis of Hoffman’s Perspective on Morality and the American Dream in Relation to The Godfather

The movie The Godfather aligns with Michael Hoffman’s viewpoint regarding gangster films, offering a perspective on the American dream. The film portrays how the Corleone family pursues power and wealth through methods that reveal the consequences of greed and the erosion of traditional values. The transformation of Michael Corleone from a character to a mafia leader exemplifies the theme of sacrificing morality for personal gain (Hoffman, 2014). Moreover, the movie delves into the complexities of family relationships and confronts dilemmas its characters face. The movie explores themes such as power, ambition, and the repercussions of actions, all in line with Hoffman’s argument about how gangster movies scrutinize the dream critically.

Insights from Mark Seal’s Vanity Fair Article on the Making of The Godfather

One fascinating aspect of The Godfather‘s story is the hesitation and opposition from the studio regarding Francis Ford Coppola’s casting decisions. Despite the uncertainties, Coppola stood by his vision without relenting. His choices shaped the film, particularly in selecting Marlon Brando to portray Don Vito Corleone (Seal, 2009).

An article by Seal mentioned how Brando’s acting approach and commitment to the role brought authenticity and depth to the character, ultimately propelling the film to a status (Seal, 2009). This element captivates me because it emphasizes Coppola’s willingness to take risks and highlights the influence of talented actors like Brando. That showcases the enchantment that arises when artistic vision intertwines with exceptional talent in the filmmaking process.

References

Hoffman, M. (2014, July 5) The Gangster Film Genre: A critical perspective on the American Dream. Cinemablography. http://www.cinemablography.org/blog/the-gangster-film-genre-a-critical-perspective-on-the-american-dream