agreed but the second one is when corleone act like he grab a gun from his pocket or something than tattaglia( i cant wright down correctly) is feel a "bit" uncomfortable :)
what amazing acting, when he began to threat whoever think of attacking Michael, his eyes looked twice toward Titaglia and Brazini, because he knew from Barzini reaction when insisted on sharing the politicians and judges for starting drugs business that this asshole was behind all of that war
I love this line, so subtle, he’s not directly treatning any of them, but making his point perfectly clear playing with words and irony, a true politician and wordsmith
That scene is a lesson on strategy and negotiation. Don Corleone knew he would be pressured to give in to the drugs business and he took that opportunity to arrange the safe return of Michael, which was his sole purpose all along. I’ve watched this movie hundreds of times and it never ceases to teach me something new. What a masterpiece!
What I love about Don Vito is that he also used his defeat as strategic tactic in this meeting to subtly get more info on who made the plan to go to war with Corleone’s. The moment Brazini spoke out of turn to reinforce an egotistical and dominant point that the Mob had the right demand and take what they want was the very moment when Vito realized that it was him the whole time. Genius and pure Machiavelianism!
@@Jackal_El_Lobo34 It also reveals Stracci's involvement. Out of all of them, the one boss Barzini called on sounded sympathetic to Vito, but he proposed the compromise which was clearly Barzini's plan all along. That means that Stracci and his family were working with or for Barzini. I'm sure Barzini realized that Vito would figure things out eventually, and if so, the hidden message was that at least three of the five families were united against the Corleones and they couldn't win a war. Vito calling this meeting was clever. Getting all the bosses into one room meant he had a chance to smoke out the real mastermind and discover who Barzini's allies were. Also, in front of so many powerful dons, it would incredibly tempting for the mastermind to reveal his cards and show off his victory and position of power in front of his peers. Maybe for bargaining leverage, or maybe just out of ego. Barzini couldn't resist and so was unmasked.
@@GauravPandey-qo4jp right ! I was so disappointed. I know people love the movie because of the sex part but me, when I read the description and read "mafia", I was really excited to see how they are going to do this,etc..
Companion saying - "Never tell anyone outside the family what you're thinking." After Sonny showed a lack of self control and tried to butt in between Don Vito and Solozzo and express disdain and a lack of trust in the Tattaglia family. Why the lack of control by Sonny? "All that comedy you're playing with that young goirl."
Same here. It's all low key disses and back handed compliments. Yet, no one just goes off on everyone. Lol. I just sit and listen. Like godfather says never trust anyone outside of the family. Michael never trusted anyone but himself. Same here. Never let anyone know what you're thinking.
A lot of people have written about how Brazni revealed his part in the War during this meeting. But a moment I truly enjoy is after Vito gives his speech about how he’ll keep the peace and forgo vengeance barring any actions against Michael, you see the look of respect Tattalgia has on his face for Vito where as Brazni looks sour at Vito’s charisma.
Not only do I agree with you I also see Tattaglia throw a number of frustrated glances at Brazini, especially when Brazini throws cold water on his attempt to get assurances. “You can almost see him say, you’re getting what you wanted while I was the only one who put his ass on the line.” I think he was genuinely grateful to Corleone for giving him the assurance. He had to have been frustrated that Brazini and the other families had tried to keep their hands clean when they all wanted to open up the drug trade. In a way Tattaglia was much a victim of a Brazini and his machinations as Vito.
To me, the beauty of this is how in an instant The Don makes his enemies become the protectors of his son. None of them want that smoke should something happen to Michael.
+Honey Chiles 85... 13 years later. 1885 was the end of the old school mafia. Gotti was never a boss.. only a family capo and appointed boss. Never confirmed by the commission.
Its because drugs are move evident in court and carry higher sentences. Much harder to prove racketeering; loansharking, etc. By the late 1990's Gravano and members of other families dismantled the Italian Mafia. May still be around, but on much smaller scales. It will never be as glorious as it was in the 20th century.
Its because drugs are move evident in court and carry higher sentences. Much harder to prove racketeering; loansharking, etc. By the late 1990's Gravano and members of other families dismantled the Italian Mafia. May still be around, but on much smaller scales. It will never be as glorious as it was in the 20th century.
+Robert Wayne Deffenbaugh Well, ya know what they say.. You gotta..roll with the times.. & the golden days of ALL the mobs are now over. Drugs are..one hell of a bitch, & the mobs thought they could make more money using it.. Yes, you could have, BUT..you created a more drug fed organization, which came with more snitches.
Vito Corleone's stance on drugs paralleled that of a lot of bosses in the real Mafia. There was no moral reason, just self preservation. What Vito said came true, drugs really did destroy the Mafia.
What bosses really meant was not to get caught because when their people did sell drugs they expected their cut. You are right though in that the long prison sentences from drugs was the downfall because it created those who were willing to testify against their families.
RICO was a large part of it, but you need eyewitness accounts to prove your case, so witness protection played a large part in the downfall of La Cosa Nostra...
Drugs did kill it.......As Corleone tries to state that their business was only looked down upon by the Churches....Drugs would be looked down upon by a higher power. The other heads were not hearing that. They Wanted more money.
Not literally, but it caused more grief for the Mob -- as Paulie said in "Goodfellas," this friend of his got to spend his golden years in prison because someone in his family/crew was involved in a big drug deal without his knowledge. And that's why the guys were going to kill Henry -- he was facing SO much jail time there was a big likelihood that he'd rat them out (which he did).
Don Corleone was a man of honor. He kept his word in that he didn't break the peace. Ironically it was his baby boy Michael, the one whom Vito wanted brought home from exile safely, who would become Vito's avenging angel...the one who broke the peace and reaffirmed the Corleone's underworld dominance. 'The Godfather' is simply a work of cinematic brilliance.
Technically Barzini broke the peace by plotting to have Tessio kill Michael. That is what saved The Corleone’s from retribution in The Commissions minds.
“You talk about vengeance. Is vengeance gonna bring your son back to you? Or my boy to me? I forgo the vengeance of my son. But I have selfish reasons. My youngest son was forced to leave this country because of this Sollozzo business. All right, now I have to make arrangements to bring him back here safely, cleared of all these false charges. But I'm a superstitious man. And if some unlucky accident should befall him, if he should get shot in the head by a police officer, or if he should hang himself in his jail cell, or if he's struck by a bolt of lightning, then I'm going to blame some of the people in this room. And that I do not forgive. But, that aside, let me say that I swear, on the souls of my grandchildren, that I will not be the one to break the peace we have made here today.” - Vito Corleone
That was my initial thought, but then I remembered that Sally was working with Barzini to set Michael up to be murdered before the score settling took place.
@@vitocorleone8437 Actually a deleted scene proves otherwise. Vito is against it, saying "I gave my word I wouldn't break the truce." and Michael replies "You gave your word. I didn't give mine."
5:28 "...and that I do not forgive." Then he glares at Barzini after saying that. Such subtle and amazing foreshadowing, and it's pulled off brilliantly by Brando. One of the moments in this movie that make it a masterpiece among masterpieces.
And the subtle hidden meaning of his words "Let me swear on the souls of my grandchildren that I WILL NOT BE THE ONE TO BREAK the peace that we made here today." Michael will be the one to break that peace, keeping the Don's words true.
You know what's actually amazing is this movie came out in 1972 and the DEA was founded in 1973. I know this movie was set back even earlier, but Don Corleone knew then that law enforcement would actively go after drugs. Whether it was successful is a whole different debate, but it was something he actually was right about.
You will never be able to stop the human desire for mind altering substances. Moreover, all drugs were legal and quite easy to get before 1920 and the fabric of society wasn’t unraveled, and in fact people tend to see that as the gold old days. The drug war has no moral or legal basis. It’s just another way for the government to produce crime. Here’s a hint: it’s illegal but there’s heroin in your neighborhood anyway. In fact, there’s more heroin in your neighborhood and the heroin is more dangerous because of it.
@@Ryan2022 there is heroin/fentenal everywhere... the trick is you just don't do it. Pretty easy. If you have to have a government entity keeping it away from the demand we have a way bigger problem on our hands.
Drugs dea Rico laws fbi the witness protection program And the internal conflicts and no respect to the old ways destroyed the Italians of course the rise of the new generation mob of spicks blacks and others
Barzini played it smooth, but he gave himself away. He was the dominant one in the room--the one that sat at the head of the table, the one that moderated and directed the dialogue, the one who was not only allowed to make jokes but got polite laughter from everyone else for it. Barzini was setting himself up to be the next Corleone--and the Don saw it.
@@cLaw27 no it was don corleone who called for the meeting immediately after Sonny’s death-this was the very start of his retaliation-to put the other families into a false sense of security which would give him time to arrange michaels return. Then obviously we all know what happened when Michael returned lol👀💨💨
@@Hasan-hx9hy Barzini was to supposed to be the neutral third party, and in that sense, yes, host. What gave him away was his shying away from the role of mediator to one with a clear agenda. He praises the Don to keep him happy, but clearly has an opinion as to how things turn out. When he saw that Barzini was interested in drugs, he knew Barzini was just the kind of man to do what he did.
I always felt like Corleone was warning the others that the mafia in the world of The Godfather would become the mafia in the world of Goodfellas, which is exactly what happened
Oh ffs he was only adjusting himself in the chair and on table, bet if he was taking a dump you’d be in awe because of the movie’s reputation…calm down
@@flightofthebumblebee9529guaranteed destruction. Like nuclear powers. When nuked you better guarantee to attack every single nuclear country instead of just the one who seems to nuke you. So nobody take a chance.
@@muhsinkhalif3621 what he's saying is he's already lost a son and if he loses another, everyone is going to pay, no matter if they were involved or not
The minute Brando said I have selfish reasons and then continued with his lines plus his mannerisms... he won the Oscar that year. 👏 done deal... exceptionally well done.
Greatest Movie of all time. The Cinematography, Lightening, Script, Timing, Editing, Music no thing compares. The actors Brando, DeNaro, Pacino, Robert DuVal, etc. Hollywood doesn’t make movies like this anymore.
@@PolishGod1234 agree to disagree. T2 is miles better imo. Story is way better, graphics still hold up to today. Made so much more money and if I’m flicking through the tv and T2 is on, I’m watching it. If I flick through and the godfather is on, I’m so-so and depends on mood.
The gesture he does to Tom at 1:18 is one of the subtle yet mysterious things I love about this movie. It could be a sign of ''thank you'' for the water, OR it could be ''stop serving now, I'm talking!''. The mystery surrounding this man's thoughts and actions, is so fascinating.
You're right... I would guess it was a thank you because he drank it right after right as the camera cut to the other guy And the way that he drank it suggested that of a thank you imo.
It was a thank you because Vito raised Tom like a son and kept him close it was the "I am glad you serve me like a servant even though I obviously see you as a family member" he does this again when Michael tranfers Tom from counseler to some other place he tries to soften the blow because he feels bad for Tom.
And that Marlon (Mawlin?) Brando is pretty good too. Also. 'N stuff. Not sure what Marion Brando has been in. But probably pretty good. Don't forget sportscaster Tim Brando. Lots of Brandos. Little time.
For the people who ask how Vito found out it was Barzini: Because this supposed to be a peace meeting between Corleone and Tattaglia, all the other parties were there to maintain this peace. However as Tattaglia started talking about "politicians and judges that Corleone keeps in his pockets," we see Barzini backing his statement, saying if they are friends they should share. So almost everybody in the room want Vito's politicians and judges to push their drugs easily. Vito knows once he uses his influence for a dirty business as drugs, there is no going back, his reputation would get ruined. But for profit, Barzini and Tattaglia don't give a shit, they want to exploit Vito's influence. So now on Barzini's insisting for this 'co-operation' on drug business, Vito knows it wasn't only Tattaglia or Solozzo demanding his support for drugs, Don Barzini was the mastermind behind this demand.
In the very next scene Vito also scoffs about how Tattaglia couldn't have stood against his son Santino alone. He suspect there was someone else behind it all along, the meeting was just to find out who.
Absolutely. I didnt think of it but yeah, Vito also realizes who iced Sonny. But generally whacking of Sonny was also a part of the general demand for Vito's involvement in the drug business.
+Loop Set This movie came out in 72? by then all the 'real dons' were at the tail end of there mob career. the mob was in ruins rom 76-85. after 85 there was no Don. you are way off and know nothing.
+ghostlylover99123 Life imitates art art imitates life. Marlon Brando copied Frank Costello's voice. The Godfather is laced with real word gangster quotes and events.
Beautiful cinematography and acting. 1- Look at the shot at 3:46 where Hagen stares directly towards Barzini and Corleone's staring at Tattaglia. 2- How Hagen always returns his gaze towards Barzini. 3- At 0:33-0:38 how Tattaglia is combing his hair to prepare himself for a difficult argument. 4- How Barzini is more collected with his arguments, no agitation, little movement. 5- How Hagen is mostly seen behind and at the right side of Don Corleone.
I think they expected Michael would want to retaliate and that's also why they wanted to assassinate him after the funeral during a meeting that Tessio told him about.
Wow, I never thought about it like that. The other families had enough with Corleones having all the perks that they started by attempting the murder of the Don, kidnapping the Consigliere, clipping of Santino, turning Fredo on Mikey, and the hit on Mikey in Vegas. It's just sad that he was too weak and worn out by the 3rd film that he was losing focus on protecting his family.
[Spolier Alert! Plot points revealed] Yes, Vito actually does keep his word. Remember, the chronology of scenes is not the chronology of what the characters know. For dramatic purposes, the scene where Apollonia dies comes before this scene of the meeting of the five families. Yet, while we see the murder attempt on Michael first, it actually would have come after the five families meeting. Remember, Michael does not find out about Sonny's death right away, only until some time later. Michael, while still in Sicily, is informed, "Brutta notizia da America" {Bad news from America} and is informed of Sonny's murder. Then, in the following scence there is an attempt on Michael's life which accidentally kills Apollonia. But by the time Michael learns of Sonny's death, Vito has already called for a meeting of the five families. Vito calls for this meeting immediately after Tom Hagen informs him that Sonny is dead. So, Vito has the meeting with the families first and only after the meeting is there an attempt on Michael's life. Vito learns of Sonny's murder right away and calls the meeting. Michael only learns of Sonny's murder some time later. This is not the strict chronology of the sequences of the film but it is in keeping with the chronology of what the characters know: Michael and Vito are acting out in parallel time. So, because the families were warned not to attempt to kill Michael and there was an attempt on Michael's life, this was something Vito warned the heads of the five families not to do or he would "blame some of the people in this room and that I do not forgive". It doesn't happen sequentially -- we see the murder attempt first but by then the five families meeting would have already taken place. Director Coppola liked to play with time and did so to great effect later in "The Godfather Part II".
Vito Corleone had plans all along. He was going to get revenge on those responsible for Sonny's life and to save Michael's life. This is why he became Michael's advisor. The other heads of the families we're not thinkers not strategizes not critical thinkers not capable of thinking with the Godfather is thinking. Vito Corleone avenged the death of his family his father his mother his brother. It was years in the making but he did it.
When I think of what "The Godfather" looks like, I see Marlon Brando. I don't even see Pacino, even though, he's the main focus of the movie. THAT'S how much I loved Brando in this role. One of the GOATs.
Michael inherits the title, but The Godfather was always Brando! When I first saw the trilogy I was confused as to why they would kill off the titular character before the end of the first movie! I think most people when asked who is The Godfather think Brando.
"or if he is struck by a bolt of lightening", look in his face as he said that, he was big time mad. I love Vito Corleone, great performance by Brando.
@KIA Yeah, he was pissed about Sonny and he let but if any of them had laid a finger on Michael Christmas would've been cancelled for every last one of them.
Vito was the power above all of them, and they all knew it. And when he delivered the warning about touching Michael upon his return, you can bet ya life that NONE of them dare even think about going near that lad. Vito in a war with the families would be something that they would never want to be a part of. The man is intelligently miles ahead of all of them, and would most likely be far more vicious also. You love Vito Corleone but truly fear the man.....what a character!!!!!
Tattaglia made it obvious to Vito that he was not the mastermind behind everything. Notice at the meeting how he never directly addresses Don Corleone, but always speaks to Don Barzini as if he's hiding behind him.
Alden Chodash Don Corleone didn't react as he knew that Barzini was behind all what happened to him.. he was intending to make Barzini think that the issue is 100% between the Don Vito and Tattaglia
Shit, that's pretty good. I always wondered how Vito knew and I just assumed it was because he has history with these men and knew them but needed this meeting to see Barzini do most of the talking.
Yup. Vito also gets suspicious when Barzini takes charge of the conversation. Barzini was supposed to be a neutral mediator, to help settle the dispute between the Corleones and the Tattaglias but he starts dictating terms right away.
This scene is truly unbelievable. What an insight into this type of man. Who not only knows what to say and what not to say (while learning all along who the real threat is) but notice how beautifully he makes the case for Michael s return home. As a concerned father he is basically asking them not to try anything but does this without really “asking” obviously. Finally, notice how he throws a very subtle hint at barzini at 5:25 when he says, and I’m going to blame some of the people in this room. He so clearly turns towards barzini when he says that letting him know that he knows he was behind santinos assassination. the writing but most of all the acting are ABSOLUTELY LEGENDARY!!!!
@@KneelB4Bacon That was made very clear. The lightning bolt. I think they got it. But Vito told Michael how to get them all for Santino, showing Vito doesn’t forgive anything, but he personally didn’t break the peace, Michael did.
@@siemniak Barzini had Sonny killed but after the meeting where Vito said he wouldn’t break that peace agreement, Michael killed them all shortly after he arrived back and at Vitos funeral. Barzini would have broken the peace but didn’t get the chance.
@@dannythomas417 never meant anything to me , 1967 the good , the bad and the ugly did not get any oscars , it was then i knew it was a bullshit thing and it was Barzini all along.
Or is it because Godfather was shot while he went to buy fruits. They have the fruit in this scene in front of them depicting that these 2 were responsible for that act?
“When did I ever refuse an accommodation?” This movie It’s to live by sone of the quotes “ women and children can be careless but never men” “ the one who comes to make the peace. He is the traitor in the family “ “ try to think like others like you “. And so many many more
What gave Barzini away was the one word he used, which was "must." He told everyone that The Don "must" let them use the politicians and "must" let them use the "water from the well." To tell The Don what he must do is an ultimate sign of disrespect. A sign that you tell him what to do not the other way around.
Probably one of the greatest performances of ALL TIME in cinema history and this scene basically ices it for him. They should show it in every acting class. Brando was sheer perfection here.
I think tattallia and Barzini are pretty incredible here . Barzini seems such a menacing character as he has this layer of superficial charm that hides his ruthlessness. I don't think Vito is an evil man at all . To say he runs a criminal enterprise he has a lot of likeable traits.
I love what happens around 3:48. Tattaglia and Barzini looking briefly at each other, somewhat agreeing they won this battle. You could see at Vito's face that was the moment he realized who was behind it all.
I love the look he gives Tataglia after he says he won’t be the one to break the truce. It’s like what he’s really saying is, “my son is gonna kill you, you fuck.” So good.
I was simply cruising the comments section and maybe bcuz it's been three years since my own dad passed, but ur comment just made me stop, not bcuz my own father loved this film, but bcuz i suddenly recalled in flooding thoughts the many movies he and i both used to watch together... We both really loved killing time by watching movies on DVD together then discussing the content... Didn't matter if we saw Aliens and had a chat about friggin space and aliens, we'd find something in every movie we watched together...damn, do i EVER miss my pops
Marlon Brandon was absolutely mesmerizing in this scene, as he was in the whole movie. Just amazing! One of the top 10 greatest cinematic performances given of all time.
To think Coppola had to fight the studio and go to bat for both Brando and Pacino is amazing. Would have never been the same movie without them. Also, how producer Robert Evans encouraged Coppola to not cut the film and to go against the grain and make it a colossal 3 hours. So many happy artistic accidents.
In this meeting there’s a lot of things that we can all take from Don Corleone as a boss. 1) Listen before talking 2) Don’t trust anyone sitting at the table 3) Make peace before revenge 4) Know who you’re dealing but identify the source of the problem Don Corleone did all of this and just one scene he did not trust anybody in the commission, he listened to what the commission wanted from him, he knew who was the source of the problem. and the only way to truly have peace was to make peace and then take revenge later.
That's why he's the best godfather or don corleone ever. Vito built his empire from nothing and at the same time possesses the intelligence, wisdom and cunning to be the perfect don.
@@ramal5708 It also shown their was no hope left when everyone ignore his reason why he refuse. Saying drugs are dangerous and they still give the go ahead.
I’m seriously curious to know how Vito learned to become Machiavellian. We know that trauma from the loss of his parents at the hands of Don Ciccio set in motion his path but how did acquire this strategic knowledge. Was it the years of experience of living in the streets making him street smart, was it that he was born with a gifted intellect that allowed him to pick up on circumstances very quickly, or a bit of both?
MICHAEL DUKES yeah you’re right and the actor that played Sonny also, James Caan. You can probably also add in Kay and Connie as well whom became famous after playing in this movie
Brando is an animal who is fully aware of nature of around him.... He should not be listed with any actors especially bollywood because his thought process was beyond their acting... Masterclass...
"Tattaglia's a Pimp..." The Godfather is the only film and book source I've ever seen where "Pimp" is used as such an undercutting insult. To most "gangstas" pimp is a high compliment. To these men it's synonymous with simpleton.
They also had a meeting about the use of the word pimp. " I am also against using pimp as a compliment.That's an imfamnia. In my city we will leave that to the gangstas, the colored people. They're animals anyway let them lose their souls"
John Hein *They're all Criminals who have killed many for personal Gain* But death by Greed and Gunshots is different from pimping or at least more moral ?? Hmmmm?? Sounds like some Bullshit hypocrite crap to me. I guess its a White thing 😂😂
Good tie in of both dialogues. Extremely cool screen name. I got to see Maidenand Ozzy live in the 80s, but never Sabbath. Maybe Ozzy will be in Godfather IV-- "Sharon!!!!!! Where's me bloody cannolis??"
Vito spoke with so much wisdom, even in the modern era during that time he knew how to act and how to conduct himself both in business and in personal matters
"How did things ever get so far?" The nostalgia in this film after you watch it fpr almost 3 hours it almost felt like a lifetime. That's why i love this masterpiece it makes you relieve their tragic life.
"i'm going to blame some of the people in this room.."-points at tattaglia, looks at barzini. thats called telling without saying, in case you guys dont know yet ;p
I get chills when he starts talking about Michael. Such a great threat like "I'll go along with you but you so much as breath in his direction, I'm bringing hell to your doorstep"
It's obvious That Vito has MUCH more humanity in him than Michael does. Both are ruthless but Vito still has old time class. He knows the Drug business is taking things at another level he has no desire to enter. Vito has more character and conscience than any of the others at the table and for sure more than his son Michael. The problem is, Times, were changing and Vito was falling behind. No one cared about integrity anymore. It was all about making a buck and improving the business..no matter how it was to be done. Vito truly wanted peace among the families if possible, but it was never going to happen. Michael fit in with the modern mafia mentality. Vito was the type of man that one could approach and he would listen to reason. Michael was just a monster who didn't give shit what was said to him. It was his way or no way.
richard riccio Michael was doing what he thought would protect his family and to continue the family business. That's why in part two, you could see Vito having an easier time than Michael. Vito was more smooth.
also there is an implication in the story that if apollonia hadnt been killed, michael would had never become as heartless as he turned out, which would have made him a sucessor worthy of vito
I realize most fans do prefer the second film but Brando is the best thing about this series and the first film is just magical to me. This entire scene is amazing to me.
I love both films so much but if I were forced to choose one I’d give the slight edge to the original. Although De Niro didn’t disappoint playing young Vito, Brando nailed his role.
Seen it in the movies when it first came out. Seen it on VHS and DVD I have watched it edited in chronological order. If I walk by a TV and the Godfather is playing I stop in my tracks and watch WHATEVER scene is showing. Just watching the one shown here still fills me with awe. For me it's the greatest mover ever made.
For those who don't know how Vito knew - he realized during the meeting that 1. Barzini was saying the SAME THINGS Sollozzo said and only a Don can pass a message like that. Not some Two Bit Thug like Sollozzo - so that's where he was getting his ideas from and 2. Tagalia NEVER once spoke directly to Don Corleone. He spoke through and to Barzini - hiding behind him like some child. THAT'S how Don Corleone knew it was Barzini all along. You're welcome
Barzini took the role of mediator in the scene , its why Vito thanked him for helping set up the meeting so he was expected to lead the meeting. He knew it was Barzini because Barzini started dictating terms and taking sides: "A refusal is not the act of a friend..." , A statement to bully Vito into falling in line, and also he knew Barzini had the influence and brains to run a scheme like that. "Barzini is a man who knows these things without being told."
@@phantomapprentice6749 ... "I didn't know until now that it was Barzini all along" is what Don Vito said in the car to Tom Hagen. He didn't know it was him until things started to unvail at the meeting, not prior to that. Your theory is wrong and mine is right ...
One of top ten scenes in movie history hands down. Both Brando and Pacino did a beautiful job. People can learn so much from just this scene let alone rest of the movie. Credit goes to the director who took that preference out of them.
Still today I think this is the best movie ever made in Hollywood, apart from the acting, the dialogue, plot, photography, editing, music, costumes where you really believe that you're in the 40s and 50s ,... it's a masterpiece...even Lucas B, who was not an actor looked professional in those scenes.
You know you have one of the best movies ever when the actors not only performed a convincing act, but they make everyone else act like they did. I bet A LOT of people, particularly business leaders, wants to carry themselves just like Vito did in this scene and the opening scene in their daily lives.
6:24 - There is where you can see Don Corleone was at a different level and it was a flash of his old greatness. All that time Sonny and Tom where stumbling around fighting Titalia, and it took one meeting for the Don to discern it was Barzini all along. Sonny and Tom thought Titalia was the target, when the Don just viewed him as 'a pimp'. Michael inherited some of his fathers intuition, but Don Corleons intuition was at another level. Michael would have eventually figured out it was Barzini, but probably not as quickly as the Don picked up on it...You could sense Tom was in awe...."You mean Titalia?" Great scene..
Lady Stoneheart He viewed Titalia as sort of a 'small potatoes' sleezeball compared to him. I think he also viewed him as 'pimping' himself out to Barzini. In others, in the game they were playing, even though he was a boss - not much to him.
tom didnt want the war. it was sonny and Michael who wanted quick retribution which led to the all out war. the best thing would of been to call truce and bide time before enacting vengeance
Something about the ambiance of this scene. The way it's lit...makes it perfect. And the sound of it all, the little creaks and groans of the room. The glass clicking on the table...it feels like you're in the room with them
When Corleone starts to stand up, he briefly motions to Tom, who quickly jumps up and pulls his chair out for him. It's a super subtle bit of blocking, but absolutely intentional and brilliant
God, Brando was such a great actor. He may have been flakey with producers and directors, but his talent and charisma we're immense. I marvel watching him in most of his roles. It's like he's not actually acting, but he IS. He truly became the characters he played. RIP Marlon.
So true...the only reason he wasn't yeeted out the set of Apocalypse Now is because he was Brando. Dude just showed up overweight and would recite random-ass poetry while Sheen was trying to stick to the script lmao.
I loved how he started the Meeting "Thanking" Don Barzini for bringing The Five Families, and acknowledging the "Other" Heads including Kansas City, MO which surprised me. He was such a Gentleman. "How did things get so far." Some (Including His Family) got too greedy and bad decisions were made and power was lost and fortunes were nearly lost.
Try and watch 'The Conspiracy' starring Kenneth Branagh. The whole movie is a long meeting about Nazis discussing the plans for the Jewish genocide. Absolutely scary in the matter of fact way they went about discussing the ways to wipe them all out as if they were not humans but a pest infestation. Good performances by Branagh and Stanley Tucci. And one of the earliest 'blink and you miss it' appearance of a very young Tom Hiddleston.
Lol when you realize Brando was just 47 yrs old here playing a role of a wise old man. Acting with real old actors... Acting masterclass!
He was 47 years old by the way!!
Legend
Bradon can play any role. His acting talent was so diverse.
Watch Nayakkan of Kamalhassan. He was only 32-33 when played his role.
And all credits go to Stella Adler...
The best part is when Vito Corleone explains what will happen if Michael is harmed.
+Ashish Patel Damn.. Savage
.
agreed but the second one is when corleone act like he grab a gun from his pocket or something than tattaglia( i cant wright down correctly) is feel a "bit" uncomfortable :)
what amazing acting, when he began to threat whoever think of attacking Michael, his eyes looked twice toward Titaglia and Brazini, because he knew from Barzini reaction when insisted on sharing the politicians and judges for starting drugs business that this asshole was behind all of that war
It did. lol
The way Brando says "...or if he's struck by a bolt of lightning..." and only slightly bites off the words for unmistakeable emphasis is excellent.
Michael is off-limits. If they only touch his hair, he ' ll burn them all.
Major verse. Classic.
Always had respect for the Don
I love this line, so subtle, he’s not directly treatning any of them, but making his point perfectly clear playing with words and irony, a true politician and wordsmith
It's almost poetic.
That scene is a lesson on strategy and negotiation. Don Corleone knew he would be pressured to give in to the drugs business and he took that opportunity to arrange the safe return of Michael, which was his sole purpose all along. I’ve watched this movie hundreds of times and it never ceases to teach me something new. What a masterpiece!
What I love about Don Vito is that he also used his defeat as strategic tactic in this meeting to subtly get more info on who made the plan to go to war with Corleone’s.
The moment Brazini spoke out of turn to reinforce an egotistical and dominant point that the Mob had the right demand and take what they want was the very moment when Vito realized that it was him the whole time.
Genius and pure Machiavelianism!
I thought the book was better.
The trilogy of this movie is actually the embodiment of the book 48 Laws of Power.
He also figures out who's had the reins of the war against the Corleone family.
@@Jackal_El_Lobo34 It also reveals Stracci's involvement. Out of all of them, the one boss Barzini called on sounded sympathetic to Vito, but he proposed the compromise which was clearly Barzini's plan all along. That means that Stracci and his family were working with or for Barzini.
I'm sure Barzini realized that Vito would figure things out eventually, and if so, the hidden message was that at least three of the five families were united against the Corleones and they couldn't win a war.
Vito calling this meeting was clever. Getting all the bosses into one room meant he had a chance to smoke out the real mastermind and discover who Barzini's allies were. Also, in front of so many powerful dons, it would incredibly tempting for the mastermind to reveal his cards and show off his victory and position of power in front of his peers. Maybe for bargaining leverage, or maybe just out of ego. Barzini couldn't resist and so was unmasked.
"A man who doesn't spend time with his family can never be a real man." My favorite quote of Don Corleone.
אמת
This is real Italian mafia. 365 days is a joke
Mine too
@@GauravPandey-qo4jp right ! I was so disappointed. I know people love the movie because of the sex part but me, when I read the description and read "mafia", I was really excited to see how they are going to do this,etc..
Companion saying - "Never tell anyone outside the family what you're thinking." After Sonny showed a lack of self control and tried to butt in between Don Vito and Solozzo and express disdain and a lack of trust in the Tattaglia family. Why the lack of control by Sonny? "All that comedy you're playing with that young goirl."
"Tattaglia is a pimp. He never could have outfought Santino".... There´s just so much respect for his dead son in that phrase... it makes me cry.
And total disrespect for Tattaglia.
I believe he says never could have outfoxed Santino.
I heard 'outfought', same meaning though
Just saw my blu ray copy w/ subtitles. You are correct. After all these years I thought it was outfox.
Now I want to watch it.
This scene always gave me chills, the acting was at such a level that it actually felt like we were sitting in on a meeting of all the mafia heads
normal acting mate, dont get caught up in the hype
I feel like you're a romanticized version of mafias. This was hundred percent a story from a book
@@harveyking5038 so annoying bro
That's Right
actually it look a little bit overacted for me
The world did not grow more sophisticated. It just got more complicated.
you are literally everywhere
You can say that again!
Definite
A way to fix it by next process of me staying quiet
Clean record of mine and Credit
I'm not Italian, but this reminds me of my family whenever we have large dinners. It's like everyone has a hidden agenda.
Blazin Titan Really nice to know !!
Just imagining the scenery !! too good !!
+Blazin Titan lol!
+Blazin Titan My family, too.... That is why I stopped going....
Same here. It's all low key disses and back handed compliments. Yet, no one just goes off on everyone. Lol.
I just sit and listen. Like godfather says never trust anyone outside of the family. Michael never trusted anyone but himself. Same here. Never let anyone know what you're thinking.
Iceburgg Slimm
Works every time, never let anyone know what you're going to do, just do it....
Just imagine the self control Vito must've had..having to sit and negotiate and look your son's murderer in the face
Ikenna Ezeuka Vito’s family was responsible for tattaglia’s son’s murder, so self control was required by both of them.
@@heathledger1345 not tataglia, Barzini
davidpfol no it was Tattaglia’s son (Bruno if I recall). Santino brags about killing him.
Its a movie
Pedro Dias always that one guy 🙄
A lot of people have written about how Brazni revealed his part in the War during this meeting. But a moment I truly enjoy is after Vito gives his speech about how he’ll keep the peace and forgo vengeance barring any actions against Michael, you see the look of respect Tattalgia has on his face for Vito where as Brazni looks sour at Vito’s charisma.
BARZINI
That's awesome! I didn't notice Barzni face until you said. A huge difference between him and Don Corleone.
Not only do I agree with you I also see Tattaglia throw a number of frustrated glances at Brazini, especially when Brazini throws cold water on his attempt to get assurances. “You can almost see him say, you’re getting what you wanted while I was the only one who put his ass on the line.” I think he was genuinely grateful to Corleone for giving him the assurance. He had to have been frustrated that Brazini and the other families had tried to keep their hands clean when they all wanted to open up the drug trade. In a way Tattaglia was much a victim of a Brazini and his machinations as Vito.
To me, the beauty of this is how in an instant The Don makes his enemies become the protectors of his son. None of them want that smoke should something happen to Michael.
This movie predicted the demise of the Mafia 19 years later.
+Honey Chiles 85... 13 years later. 1885 was the end of the old school mafia. Gotti was never a boss.. only a family capo and appointed boss. Never confirmed by the commission.
Biltospill That's right. He and Gravano murdered Castillano.
Its because drugs are move evident in court and carry higher sentences. Much harder to prove racketeering; loansharking, etc. By the late 1990's Gravano and members of other families dismantled the Italian Mafia. May still be around, but on much smaller scales. It will never be as glorious as it was in the 20th century.
Its because drugs are move evident in court and carry higher sentences. Much harder to prove racketeering; loansharking, etc. By the late 1990's Gravano and members of other families dismantled the Italian Mafia. May still be around, but on much smaller scales. It will never be as glorious as it was in the 20th century.
+Robert Wayne Deffenbaugh Well, ya know what they say.. You gotta..roll with the times.. & the golden days of ALL the mobs are now over. Drugs are..one hell of a bitch, & the mobs thought they could make more money using it.. Yes, you could have, BUT..you created a more drug fed organization, which came with more snitches.
Vito Corleone's stance on drugs paralleled that of a lot of bosses in the real Mafia. There was no moral reason, just self preservation. What Vito said came true, drugs really did destroy the Mafia.
What bosses really meant was not to get caught because when their people did sell drugs they expected their cut. You are right though in that the long prison sentences from drugs was the downfall because it created those who were willing to testify against their families.
Van PastorMan
RICO was a large part of it, but you need eyewitness accounts to prove your case, so witness protection played a large part in the downfall of La Cosa Nostra...
Drugs did kill it.......As Corleone tries to state that their business was only looked down upon by the Churches....Drugs would be looked down upon by a higher power. The other heads were not hearing that. They Wanted more money.
Not literally, but it caused more grief for the Mob -- as Paulie said in "Goodfellas," this friend of his got to spend his golden years in prison because someone in his family/crew was involved in a big drug deal without his knowledge. And that's why the guys were going to kill Henry -- he was facing SO much jail time there was a big likelihood that he'd rat them out (which he did).
Im a huge Pacino fan. But No one on this planet will out act Brando in this movie. Ever.
Agreed but maybe Tony soprano
In agreement. Only Jack Nicholson comes a far distance second
EVUH.
Deniro as young vito
He was gay ,marlon brando?
Don Corleone was a man of honor. He kept his word in that he didn't break the peace. Ironically it was his baby boy Michael, the one whom Vito wanted brought home from exile safely, who would become Vito's avenging angel...the one who broke the peace and reaffirmed the Corleone's underworld dominance. 'The Godfather' is simply a work of cinematic brilliance.
Technically Barzini broke the peace by plotting to have Tessio kill Michael. That is what saved The Corleone’s from retribution in The Commissions minds.
No Animals!
“You talk about vengeance. Is vengeance gonna bring your son back to you? Or my boy to me? I forgo the vengeance of my son. But I have selfish reasons. My youngest son was forced to leave this country because of this Sollozzo business. All right, now I have to make arrangements to bring him back here safely, cleared of all these false charges. But I'm a superstitious man. And if some unlucky accident should befall him, if he should get shot in the head by a police officer, or if he should hang himself in his jail cell, or if he's struck by a bolt of lightning, then I'm going to blame some of the people in this room. And that I do not forgive. But, that aside, let me say that I swear, on the souls of my grandchildren, that I will not be the one to break the peace we have made here today.” - Vito Corleone
TheBombayMasterTony EPIC !!!!
But my son will :)), 2019
The trick is: "I" will not be the one to break peace...
3:47 vito peep the plot and didnt miss the play
@@Deibler666 right, not his personally, but 1 of his men.
"I will not be the one to break the peace we've made here today". In the back of his head "It'll be my son"
Its been Barzini
Naughty Barzini
ITS BEEN BARZINI ALL ALONG
"AND I KILLED SONNY TOO"
HA HA HA HA HAAAAAAAAA
That was my initial thought, but then I remembered that Sally was working with Barzini to set Michael up to be murdered before the score settling took place.
Yes you are right...i am sure Vito is the one giving Michael the green light to kill the five families.
@@rabri-ghewarI understood that reference 😂
@@vitocorleone8437 Actually a deleted scene proves otherwise. Vito is against it, saying "I gave my word I wouldn't break the truce." and Michael replies "You gave your word. I didn't give mine."
5:28 "...and that I do not forgive." Then he glares at Barzini after saying that.
Such subtle and amazing foreshadowing, and it's pulled off brilliantly by Brando. One of the moments in this movie that make it a masterpiece among masterpieces.
And the subtle hidden meaning of his words
"Let me swear on the souls of my grandchildren that I WILL NOT BE THE ONE TO BREAK the peace that we made here today."
Michael will be the one to break that peace, keeping the Don's words true.
You know what's actually amazing is this movie came out in 1972 and the DEA was founded in 1973. I know this movie was set back even earlier, but Don Corleone knew then that law enforcement would actively go after drugs. Whether it was successful is a whole different debate, but it was something he actually was right about.
Law enforcement goes after drugs Because we want them to. I don’t want heroin in my neighborhood. Do you?
You will never be able to stop the human desire for mind altering substances.
Moreover, all drugs were legal and quite easy to get before 1920 and the fabric of society wasn’t unraveled, and in fact people tend to see that as the gold old days.
The drug war has no moral or legal basis. It’s just another way for the government to produce crime.
Here’s a hint: it’s illegal but there’s heroin in your neighborhood anyway. In fact, there’s more heroin in your neighborhood and the heroin is more dangerous because of it.
Yo born 1972!
Deeaammnn nice..
Okay take care
@@Ryan2022 there is heroin/fentenal everywhere... the trick is you just don't do it. Pretty easy. If you have to have a government entity keeping it away from the demand we have a way bigger problem on our hands.
Drugs dea Rico laws fbi the witness protection program And the internal conflicts and no respect to the old ways destroyed the Italians of course the rise of the new generation mob of spicks blacks and others
Barzini played it smooth, but he gave himself away. He was the dominant one in the room--the one that sat at the head of the table, the one that moderated and directed the dialogue, the one who was not only allowed to make jokes but got polite laughter from everyone else for it. Barzini was setting himself up to be the next Corleone--and the Don saw it.
Well wasn't he the one who hosted the meeting?
@@cLaw27 no it was don corleone who called for the meeting immediately after Sonny’s death-this was the very start of his retaliation-to put the other families into a false sense of security which would give him time to arrange michaels return.
Then obviously we all know what happened when Michael returned lol👀💨💨
Yet Vito and Michael played it perfectly, make them powerful and make them believe the corleones are weak, then strike them all with precision.
@@Hasan-hx9hy Barzini was to supposed to be the neutral third party, and in that sense, yes, host. What gave him away was his shying away from the role of mediator to one with a clear agenda. He praises the Don to keep him happy, but clearly has an opinion as to how things turn out. When he saw that Barzini was interested in drugs, he knew Barzini was just the kind of man to do what he did.
He set the meeting.
4:27
The Godfather is so badass that he just waves his pen at Barzini and he shuts up.
That’s my favorite part
100% man. And the cinematography is unbelievable- this shot with Tom in the background. Indeed, a Masterpiece
@@jeremy28135 Robert Duvall's grave reverence of the situation in the back just ties the whole scene together
Brando had the best of both: As a young man, his eyes melted women. As an older man, when he spoke, every other man listened.
Tom Hagen never said a word..just staying quiet, attending to his Don...Brilliant!
Tom/Robert Duvall adds so much to this scene even though he seemingly does so little.
As he doesn't play any comedy with any girls so his brain is not going soft!
...and Michael killed em all !!!
+yuna1971 Booom!!! Headshot!!!
+TheMythof Feminism Just saying, but Zaluchi also said that he "only" marketed it to the blacks. So after all, he does believe in drugs.
+Gaurab Chatterjee Garrus right?
Jamie McMillan Wut?
Gaurab Chatterjee Mass effect? Just forget it...
I always felt like Corleone was warning the others that the mafia in the world of The Godfather would become the mafia in the world of Goodfellas, which is exactly what happened
And later on that was extended to Sopranos...Don must have been time traveler
@@williamwilson7857 are you sure Don is not Doctor Who?
@@williamwilson7857 And don't forget Boardwalk Empire
“The boss doesn’t wear shorts”
@@michaelbyrne2073 never shows up late in meeting and while wearing shorts
An actor so great that the real mobsters strive to project such dominating charisma. Inventor of the mafia persona. Brando was his work. NICE
4:20 The subtle lean forward, the eye contact, the hand movements
Brando was indeed an absolute benchmark for all actors, the gold standard
Oh ffs he was only adjusting himself in the chair and on table, bet if he was taking a dump you’d be in awe because of the movie’s reputation…calm down
@@Aven-Sharma1991 And acting whilst doing it. You jealous young man?
@@Aven-Sharma1991as if FFC would allow anything arbitrary in any scene.
@@Aven-Sharma1991why so angry friend
"After all we are not communists"
certainly you can present ah bill for such services...
I really liked that line too.
...then you MUST let us draw water from the well!
"Tattaglias' a pimp, he never coulda outfought Santino, what I didn't know, until this very day, is that it was Barzini all along.
Frank Kelly Barzini was confident, shrewd, and commanding at the meeting. Tattalgia was a sniveling weasel, which is how Vito knew what was what.
“Or if he’s struck by a bolt of lighting” gives me chills every time
He was basically saying that not only had they best not harm him, they best see that nobody else does too or hell will be paid.
@@flightofthebumblebee9529 i think he also could've meant that he knows they may try to make his son's death look like an accident
@@flightofthebumblebee9529 confusing
@@flightofthebumblebee9529guaranteed destruction. Like nuclear powers. When nuked you better guarantee to attack every single nuclear country instead of just the one who seems to nuke you. So nobody take a chance.
@@muhsinkhalif3621 what he's saying is he's already lost a son and if he loses another, everyone is going to pay, no matter if they were involved or not
The minute Brando said I have selfish reasons and then continued with his lines plus his mannerisms... he won the Oscar that year. 👏 done deal... exceptionally well done.
Greatest Movie of all time. The Cinematography, Lightening, Script, Timing, Editing, Music no thing compares. The actors Brando, DeNaro, Pacino, Robert DuVal, etc. Hollywood doesn’t make movies like this anymore.
You don't need Holly to make movies like this.
Yes "Lightening" as Vito says in this clip, good catch!
Terminator 2 is better, just saying
@@JonYen69 no it's not. It's a great action film, but that's about it. Godfather is simply Art
@@PolishGod1234 agree to disagree. T2 is miles better imo. Story is way better, graphics still hold up to today. Made so much more money and if I’m flicking through the tv and T2 is on, I’m watching it. If I flick through and the godfather is on, I’m so-so and depends on mood.
"... or if he's struck by a bolt of lightning." God, I love that line so much!
Text from Barzini to Tataglia: "let's cancel the "make it look like an accident" plan
Remember they call his Italian wife a bolt of lighting
My favorite too- feeling the fire
"Mention it, don't insist"- Wise words from don Vito.
The gesture he does to Tom at 1:18 is one of the subtle yet mysterious things I love about this movie. It could be a sign of ''thank you'' for the water, OR it could be ''stop serving now, I'm talking!''. The mystery surrounding this man's thoughts and actions, is so fascinating.
You're right... I would guess it was a thank you because he drank it right after right as the camera cut to the other guy And the way that he drank it suggested that of a thank you imo.
@@srtv6337 I think so. He's like "thanks, son, I gotta be clear for this. We're in trouble."
Good eye.
It was a thank you because Vito raised Tom like a son and kept him close it was the "I am glad you serve me like a servant even though I obviously see you as a family member" he does this again when Michael tranfers Tom from counseler to some other place he tries to soften the blow because he feels bad for Tom.
Or maybe he is just: “Oh thank you my son, but I’m talking.”
There will never be another actor like Marion Brando ever again. Exceptional talent 👏
And that Marlon (Mawlin?) Brando is pretty good too. Also. 'N stuff. Not sure what Marion Brando has been in. But probably pretty good. Don't forget sportscaster Tim Brando. Lots of Brandos. Little time.
For the people who ask how Vito found out it was Barzini: Because this supposed to be a peace meeting between Corleone and Tattaglia, all the other parties were there to maintain this peace. However as Tattaglia started talking about "politicians and judges that Corleone keeps in his pockets," we see Barzini backing his statement, saying if they are friends they should share. So almost everybody in the room want Vito's politicians and judges to push their drugs easily. Vito knows once he uses his influence for a dirty business as drugs, there is no going back, his reputation would get ruined. But for profit, Barzini and Tattaglia don't give a shit, they want to exploit Vito's influence. So now on Barzini's insisting for this 'co-operation' on drug business, Vito knows it wasn't only Tattaglia or Solozzo demanding his support for drugs, Don Barzini was the mastermind behind this demand.
Deniz Taylan Sağır .
In the very next scene Vito also scoffs about how Tattaglia couldn't have stood against his son Santino alone. He suspect there was someone else behind it all along, the meeting was just to find out who.
Absolutely. I didnt think of it but yeah, Vito also realizes who iced Sonny. But generally whacking of Sonny was also a part of the general demand for Vito's involvement in the drug business.
Barzini actually makes the same mistake Sonny made in the initial meeting with Solozzo-he jumps too quickly and gives away his true motives.
I thought all the families were behind it, Vito was not allowing drug trade they all wanted.
real dons looked to this performance to see how to behave and how to do business.
+Loop Set No kidding!
oh wow, I didn't know, I thought it was the other way around!
+Loop Set This movie came out in 72? by then all the 'real dons' were at the tail end of there mob career. the mob was in ruins rom 76-85. after 85 there was no Don. you are way off and know nothing.
+ghostlylover99123 Life imitates art art imitates life. Marlon Brando copied Frank Costello's voice. The Godfather is laced with real word gangster quotes and events.
+mindcontrol31 Frank's voice was raspy as hell because he smoked more cigarettes than most people!
The more you watch Brando in this movie the more incredible it gets.
Acting masterclass.
Brando is a great actor... you can't take your eyes off of him. He commands the screen whenever he appears.
No argument from me.
Beautiful cinematography and acting.
1- Look at the shot at 3:46 where Hagen stares directly towards Barzini and Corleone's staring at Tattaglia.
2- How Hagen always returns his gaze towards Barzini.
3- At 0:33-0:38 how Tattaglia is combing his hair to prepare himself for a difficult argument.
4- How Barzini is more collected with his arguments, no agitation, little movement.
5- How Hagen is mostly seen behind and at the right side of Don Corleone.
Brilliant camera angles (intentional or not) to showcase Don Vito’s speech with the crown of lights on his head…speaking like a king! 👑
Vito kept his word, just not in a way the other Dons expected.
I think they expected Michael would want to retaliate and that's also why they wanted to assassinate him after the funeral during a meeting that Tessio told him about.
+raf916sac that's true, they almost killed all of the Corleone family through out the movie, someone had to stop them and finally Michael did.
Wow, I never thought about it like that. The other families had enough with Corleones having all the perks that they started by attempting the murder of the Don, kidnapping the Consigliere, clipping of Santino, turning Fredo on Mikey, and the hit on Mikey in Vegas. It's just sad that he was too weak and worn out by the 3rd film that he was losing focus on protecting his family.
[Spolier Alert! Plot points revealed] Yes, Vito actually does keep his word. Remember, the chronology of scenes is not the chronology of what the characters know. For dramatic purposes, the scene where Apollonia dies comes before this scene of the meeting of the five families. Yet, while we see the murder attempt on Michael first, it actually would have come after the five families meeting. Remember, Michael does not find out about Sonny's death right away, only until some time later. Michael, while still in Sicily, is informed, "Brutta notizia da America" {Bad news from America} and is informed of Sonny's murder. Then, in the following scence there is an attempt on Michael's life which accidentally kills Apollonia. But by the time Michael learns of Sonny's death, Vito has already called for a meeting of the five families. Vito calls for this meeting immediately after Tom Hagen informs him that Sonny is dead. So, Vito has the meeting with the families first and only after the meeting is there an attempt on Michael's life. Vito learns of Sonny's murder right away and calls the meeting. Michael only learns of Sonny's murder some time later. This is not the strict chronology of the sequences of the film but it is in keeping with the chronology of what the characters know: Michael and Vito are acting out in parallel time. So, because the families were warned not to attempt to kill Michael and there was an attempt on Michael's life, this was something Vito warned the heads of the five families not to do or he would "blame some of the people in this room and that I do not forgive". It doesn't happen sequentially -- we see the murder attempt first but by then the five families meeting would have already taken place. Director Coppola liked to play with time and did so to great effect later in "The Godfather Part II".
Vito Corleone had plans all along. He was going to get revenge on those responsible for Sonny's life and to save Michael's life. This is why he became Michael's advisor. The other heads of the families we're not thinkers not strategizes not critical thinkers not capable of thinking with the Godfather is thinking. Vito Corleone avenged the death of his family his father his mother his brother. It was years in the making but he did it.
When I think of what "The Godfather" looks like, I see Marlon Brando. I don't even see Pacino, even though, he's the main focus of the movie. THAT'S how much I loved Brando in this role. One of the GOATs.
Because he is "the Godfather". Lol.
Same, when I think about the movie I think about Brando.
Michael inherits the title, but The Godfather was always Brando! When I first saw the trilogy I was confused as to why they would kill off the titular character before the end of the first movie! I think most people when asked who is The Godfather think Brando.
Marlon Brando was really the driving force of the movie.
Brando is the GOAT. I saw him in a western the other day with Jack Nicholson and he was all time in that movie also.
Brando delivering a masterpiece. Legendary.
His reference to Michael being struck by lightning ties into when he fell in love in Sicily with Appolonia
"or if he is struck by a bolt of lightening", look in his face as he said that, he was big time mad. I love Vito Corleone, great performance by Brando.
The moment all the enemies pissed on their pant
Got an Oscar for this scene
@KIA Yeah, he was pissed about Sonny and he let but if any of them had laid a finger on Michael Christmas would've been cancelled for every last one of them.
Vito was the power above all of them, and they all knew it. And when he delivered the warning about touching Michael upon his return, you can bet ya life that NONE of them dare even think about going near that lad.
Vito in a war with the families would be something that they would never want to be a part of.
The man is intelligently miles ahead of all of them, and would most likely be far more vicious also.
You love Vito Corleone but truly fear the man.....what a character!!!!!
Eric Day self control of honorable man.
Tattaglia made it obvious to Vito that he was not the mastermind behind everything. Notice at the meeting how he never directly addresses Don Corleone, but always speaks to Don Barzini as if he's hiding behind him.
Alden Chodash Don Corleone didn't react as he knew that Barzini was behind all what happened to him.. he was intending to make Barzini think that the issue is 100% between the Don Vito and Tattaglia
Shit, that's pretty good. I always wondered how Vito knew and I just assumed it was because he has history with these men and knew them but needed this meeting to see Barzini do most of the talking.
Issam Elhachimi no he didn't.... after the meeting don corleone even said he didn't kno barzini was behind it till that very moment
Yup. Vito also gets suspicious when Barzini takes charge of the conversation. Barzini was supposed to be a neutral mediator, to help settle the dispute between the Corleones and the Tattaglias but he starts dictating terms right away.
Tataglia is a pimp
"He never couldve outfought Santino." That deep knowing about Sonny left Vito open to all possibilities instead of the most likely assumption.
He's just an actor, playing a mob boss, and yet the respect his figure imposes is so real...
I love Vito's hand gesture and how Tom quickly reacts by pulling the chair backwards
@jpssteveshanahan yes..that as well.
This scene is truly unbelievable. What an insight into this type of man. Who not only knows what to say and what not to say (while learning all along who the real threat is) but notice how beautifully he makes the case for Michael s return home. As a concerned father he is basically asking them not to try anything but does this without really “asking” obviously.
Finally, notice how he throws a very subtle hint at barzini at 5:25 when he says, and I’m going to blame some of the people in this room. He so clearly turns towards barzini when he says that letting him know that he knows he was behind santinos assassination.
the writing but most of all the acting are ABSOLUTELY LEGENDARY!!!!
Agreed. Vito's letting them know that if anything happens to Michael, he's not going to buy into any "accident" explanations.
@@KneelB4Bacon That was made very clear. The lightning bolt. I think they got it. But Vito told Michael how to get them all for Santino, showing Vito doesn’t forgive anything, but he personally didn’t break the peace, Michael did.
Absolutely. I didn’t notice it first when I watched the movie. The glance was pretty clear and accusatory.
@@ronniebishop2496 barzini did
@@siemniak Barzini had Sonny killed but after the meeting where Vito said he wouldn’t break that peace agreement, Michael killed them all shortly after he arrived back and at Vitos funeral. Barzini would have broken the peace but didn’t get the chance.
Look at the camerawork for the first 60 sec...it rolls on everyone as they are introduced and finally rests on Don Corleone....Amazing!!!!!
The greatest movie of all times, 100% classic
French Connection 2
Brando is seriously one of the most talented actors in the world
De Niro nailed the young Vito too. This was back when Oscars actually meant something.
@@dannythomas417 never meant anything to me , 1967 the good , the bad and the ugly did not get any oscars , it was then i knew it was a bullshit thing and it was Barzini all along.
Yes, he was.
Just dont watch the Island of Dr. Moreau, that will change your mind on Brando.
Was
Look at those nice BIG Oranges in front of Tattaglia and Barzini!
I know right?? I was about to say that! Oranges are huge signs in this movie!
Beware the oranges of doom!
+Julia Lovegan> Oranges and grapes in a bowl. Typical model for artists "still life" paintings. Irony?
Just gimme my $200
great memory!
Or is it because Godfather was shot while he went to buy fruits. They have the fruit in this scene in front of them depicting that these 2 were responsible for that act?
“When did I ever refuse an accommodation?”
This movie It’s to live by sone of the quotes
“ women and children can be careless but never men”
“ the one who comes to make the peace. He is the traitor in the family “
“ try to think like others like you “.
And so many many more
What gave Barzini away was the one word he used, which was "must." He told everyone that The Don "must" let them use the politicians and "must" let them use the "water from the well." To tell The Don what he must do is an ultimate sign of disrespect. A sign that you tell him what to do not the other way around.
Probably one of the greatest performances of ALL TIME in cinema history and this scene basically ices it for him. They should show it in every acting class. Brando was sheer perfection here.
This scene and delivery by Brando is among the best acting ever put to cinema.
I think tattallia and Barzini are pretty incredible here . Barzini seems such a menacing character as he has this layer of superficial charm that hides his ruthlessness. I don't think Vito is an evil man at all . To say he runs a criminal enterprise he has a lot of likeable traits.
I love what happens around 3:48. Tattaglia and Barzini looking briefly at each other, somewhat agreeing they won this battle. You could see at Vito's face that was the moment he realized who was behind it all.
I love the look he gives Tataglia after he says he won’t be the one to break the truce. It’s like what he’s really saying is, “my son is gonna kill you, you fuck.” So good.
RIP and long live Marlon Brando (April 3, 1924 - July 1, 2004), aged 80
You will always be remembered as a legend.
Best scene ever. The way he threatens the whole council
He had to make it clear. "Touch my son, and it's all out war. I survived and I'm here to stay!"
When I miss my dad..i go listen to the Beatles and watch The Godfather : ) he loved this movie..
+renee Other than the Beatles....same here.
I was simply cruising the comments section and maybe bcuz it's been three years since my own dad passed, but ur comment just made me stop, not bcuz my own father loved this film, but bcuz i suddenly recalled in flooding thoughts the many movies he and i both used to watch together... We both really loved killing time by watching movies on DVD together then discussing the content... Didn't matter if we saw Aliens and had a chat about friggin space and aliens, we'd find something in every movie we watched together...damn, do i EVER miss my pops
wow. this is my dad's favorite too, along with the beatles. relatable
Grace God bless you ma'am
whenever I miss my family I put this movie on
Marlon Brandon was absolutely mesmerizing in this scene, as he was in the whole movie. Just amazing! One of the top 10 greatest cinematic performances given of all time.
Top 10? This is the greatest cinematic performance of all-time in my book?
Not bad at all
To think Coppola had to fight the studio and go to bat for both Brando and Pacino is amazing. Would have never been the same movie without them. Also, how producer Robert Evans encouraged Coppola to not cut the film and to go against the grain and make it a colossal 3 hours. So many happy artistic accidents.
In this meeting there’s a lot of things that we can all take from Don Corleone as a boss.
1) Listen before talking
2) Don’t trust anyone sitting at the table
3) Make peace before revenge
4) Know who you’re dealing but identify the source of the problem
Don Corleone did all of this and just one scene he did not trust anybody in the commission, he listened to what the commission wanted from him, he knew who was the source of the problem. and the only way to truly have peace was to make peace and then take revenge later.
That's why he's the best godfather or don corleone ever. Vito built his empire from nothing and at the same time possesses the intelligence, wisdom and cunning to be the perfect don.
Add the Fact he used his strength against his enemies with the "Vito a Man of his words"
@@ramal5708 It also shown their was no hope left when everyone ignore his reason why he refuse. Saying drugs are dangerous and they still give the go ahead.
I’m seriously curious to know how Vito learned to become Machiavellian.
We know that trauma from the loss of his parents at the hands of Don Ciccio set in motion his path but how did acquire this strategic knowledge.
Was it the years of experience of living in the streets making him street smart, was it that he was born with a gifted intellect that allowed him to pick up on circumstances very quickly, or a bit of both?
@@Jackal_El_Lobo34
It’s both, he wasn’t brought up in crime. He learned it from witnessing it with his own eyes.
This franchise had some of the greatest actors of all time, Brando, Pacino and DeNiro
DonDada ... You’re forgetting Duvall!
MICHAEL DUKES yeah you’re right and the actor that played Sonny also, James Caan. You can probably also add in Kay and Connie as well whom became famous after playing in this movie
Ad.
Brando is an animal who is fully aware of nature of around him....
He should not be listed with any actors especially bollywood because his thought process was beyond their acting...
Masterclass...
This wasn't a movie. It was a documentary. Such well made.
That pause he takes before saying, "But I have selfish reasons" I always really liked that how he changed the trajectory of his monologue.
5:20 I just love how he raises his voice when he says “Struck by a bolt of lightning” man Marlon Brando is one hell of an actor.
"Tattaglia's a Pimp..."
The Godfather is the only film and book source I've ever seen where "Pimp" is used as such an undercutting insult. To most "gangstas" pimp is a high compliment. To these men it's synonymous with simpleton.
'gangstas' are not 'gangsters': big difference
John Heinand a coward who makes his living puttin the bull on women
They also had a meeting about the use of the word pimp. " I am also against using pimp as a compliment.That's an imfamnia. In my city we will leave that to the gangstas, the colored people. They're animals anyway let them lose their souls"
martinishot That was amazing coming from a bunch of lowlife murderers, and thieves, not to mention idiots that can't define hypocrisy.
John Hein *They're all Criminals who have killed many for personal Gain*
But death by Greed and Gunshots is different from pimping or at least more moral ?? Hmmmm??
Sounds like some Bullshit hypocrite crap to me. I guess its a White thing 😂😂
Tattaglia : He's too Modest. His son Fredo was banging all the cocktails waitresses in Vegas and he refused to share them.
IRON BLACK SABBATH MAIDEN..MOST UNDERRATED COMMENT😂😂😂😂
Good tie in of both dialogues. Extremely cool screen name. I got to see Maidenand Ozzy live in the 80s, but never Sabbath. Maybe Ozzy will be in Godfather IV--
"Sharon!!!!!! Where's me bloody cannolis??"
@@user-ty6do8yz4l those two along with early Queensryche and Judas Priest are my favorite bands.
Two at a time at that.
IRON BLACK SABBATH MAIDEN 😂
Oh god please transport me back to those glorious days of class and no social media or computers! I could die happy in a spectacular room like that!
Those glorious days were a fantasy though.
Vito spoke with so much wisdom, even in the modern era during that time he knew how to act and how to conduct himself both in business and in personal matters
"How did things ever get so far?"
The nostalgia in this film after you watch it fpr almost 3 hours it almost felt like a lifetime. That's why i love this masterpiece it makes you relieve their tragic life.
"i'm going to blame some of the people in this room.."-points at tattaglia, looks at barzini.
thats called telling without saying, in case you guys dont know yet
;p
Faris Abdurrahman dem eye rolls
I get chills when he starts talking about Michael.
Such a great threat like "I'll go along with you but you so much as breath in his direction, I'm bringing hell to your doorstep"
It's obvious That Vito has MUCH more humanity in him than Michael does. Both are ruthless but Vito still has old time class. He knows the Drug business is taking things at another level he has no desire to enter. Vito has more character and conscience than any of the others at the table and for sure more than his son Michael. The problem is, Times, were changing and Vito was falling behind. No one cared about integrity anymore. It was all about making a buck and improving the business..no matter how it was to be done. Vito truly wanted peace among the families if possible, but it was never going to happen. Michael fit in with the modern mafia mentality. Vito was the type of man that one could approach and he would listen to reason. Michael was just a monster who didn't give shit what was said to him. It was his way or no way.
richard riccio Michael was doing what he thought would protect his family and to continue the family business. That's why in part two, you could see Vito having an easier time than Michael. Vito was more smooth.
also there is an implication in the story that if apollonia hadnt been killed, michael would had never become as heartless as he turned out, which would have made him a sucessor worthy of vito
That's right, the old schoolers were against drugs
@@dbrown9495 drugs brings in more violent crimes. Look at the cartels and the street gangs of America
Arguably the greatest scene in cinema history. Powerful stuff.
I realize most fans do prefer the second film but Brando is the best thing about this series and the first film is just magical to me. This entire scene is amazing to me.
I myself consider both films to be the finest ever made in American film history.
I love both films so much but if I were forced to choose one I’d give the slight edge to the original. Although De Niro didn’t disappoint playing young Vito, Brando nailed his role.
I told my son you can learn everything you need to know about life from the Godfather so many good life nuggets in the movie.
5:08-5:26 "... then I'm going to blame some of the people in this room" - looks at Barzini.
Seen it in the movies when it first came out. Seen it on VHS and DVD I have watched it edited in chronological order. If I walk by a TV and the Godfather is playing I stop in my tracks and watch WHATEVER scene is showing. Just watching the one shown here still fills me with awe. For me it's the greatest mover ever made.
The Greatest actor who ever lived.
Literally every scene of The Godfather is perfect
Don's voice changes after he's been shot...what amazing acting on Brando's part.
I love Brando's acting. He had very nice voice.
"I'm a superstitious man". Love this warning.
I did read the book, I still have it
The best book I ever read, and still have it.
For those who don't know how Vito knew - he realized during the meeting that 1. Barzini was saying the SAME THINGS Sollozzo said and only a Don can pass a message like that. Not some Two Bit Thug like Sollozzo - so that's where he was getting his ideas from and 2. Tagalia NEVER once spoke directly to Don Corleone. He spoke through and to Barzini - hiding behind him like some child. THAT'S how Don Corleone knew it was Barzini all along. You're welcome
Also Barzini's tone, he dictated the discussion & made sarcastic jokes , he was obviously the man behind the curtain.
@@allbeen NO. That was at the end. Don Vito knew from the beginning.
I was thinking the same thing. Tataglia looks so weak in this scene. He's slouched, avoids looking at Vito. Only looks and talk to Brazini.
Barzini took the role of mediator in the scene , its why Vito thanked him for helping set up the meeting so he was expected to lead the meeting. He knew it was Barzini because Barzini started dictating terms and taking sides: "A refusal is not the act of a friend..." , A statement to bully Vito into falling in line, and also he knew Barzini had the influence and brains to run a scheme like that. "Barzini is a man who knows these things without being told."
@@phantomapprentice6749 ... "I didn't know until now that it was Barzini all along" is what Don Vito said in the car to Tom Hagen. He didn't know it was him until things started to unvail at the meeting, not prior to that. Your theory is wrong and mine is right ...
One of top ten scenes in movie history hands down. Both Brando and Pacino did a beautiful job. People can learn so much from just this scene let alone rest of the movie. Credit goes to the director who took that preference out of them.
Still today I think this is the best movie ever made in Hollywood, apart from the acting, the dialogue, plot, photography, editing, music, costumes where you really believe that you're in the 40s and 50s ,... it's a masterpiece...even Lucas B, who was not an actor looked professional in those scenes.
You know you have one of the best movies ever when the actors not only performed a convincing act, but they make everyone else act like they did. I bet A LOT of people, particularly business leaders, wants to carry themselves just like Vito did in this scene and the opening scene in their daily lives.
6:24 - There is where you can see Don Corleone was at a different level and it was a flash of his old greatness. All that time Sonny and Tom where stumbling around fighting Titalia, and it took one meeting for the Don to discern it was Barzini all along. Sonny and Tom thought Titalia was the target, when the Don just viewed him as 'a pimp'. Michael inherited some of his fathers intuition, but Don Corleons intuition was at another level. Michael would have eventually figured out it was Barzini, but probably not as quickly as the Don picked up on it...You could sense Tom was in awe...."You mean Titalia?" Great scene..
what does he mean by 'pimp' though?
Lady Stoneheart He viewed Titalia as sort of a 'small potatoes' sleezeball compared to him. I think he also viewed him as 'pimping' himself out to Barzini. In others, in the game they were playing, even though he was a boss - not much to him.
mikem987
I see.. damn what a classy SOB! I know this is romanticized and all but damn I wouldn't think twice before pledging him my undying loyalty
tom didnt want the war. it was sonny and Michael who wanted quick retribution which led to the all out war. the best thing would of been to call truce and bide time before enacting vengeance
mikem987 She must have missed her target lol
Don Corleone: smartest gangster of them all
Its been Barzini
Naughty Barzini
ITS BEEN BARZINI ALL ALONG
"AND I KILLED SONNY TOO"
HA HA HA HA HAAAAAAAAA
Something about the ambiance of this scene. The way it's lit...makes it perfect. And the sound of it all, the little creaks and groans of the room. The glass clicking on the table...it feels like you're in the room with them
When Corleone starts to stand up, he briefly motions to Tom, who quickly jumps up and pulls his chair out for him. It's a super subtle bit of blocking, but absolutely intentional and brilliant
Richard Conte was a grossly underrated actor.
God, Brando was such a great actor. He may have been flakey with producers and directors, but his talent and charisma we're immense. I marvel watching him in most of his roles. It's like he's not actually acting, but he IS. He truly became the characters he played. RIP Marlon.
So true...the only reason he wasn't yeeted out the set of Apocalypse Now is because he was Brando. Dude just showed up overweight and would recite random-ass poetry while Sheen was trying to stick to the script lmao.
@@nekrataaliAnd still killed it
This scene takes on a whole nother dimension when you realize that Vito knows his son is going to assassinate half the people sitting at that table
I loved how he started the Meeting "Thanking" Don Barzini for bringing The Five Families, and acknowledging the "Other" Heads including Kansas City, MO which surprised me. He was such a Gentleman. "How did things get so far." Some (Including His Family) got too greedy and bad decisions were made and power was lost and fortunes were nearly lost.
This Scene is The Masterpiece " I watch this Scene over and over.. The Masterpiece Meeting I ever seen
Try and watch 'The Conspiracy' starring Kenneth Branagh. The whole movie is a long meeting about Nazis discussing the plans for the Jewish genocide. Absolutely scary in the matter of fact way they went about discussing the ways to wipe them all out as if they were not humans but a pest infestation. Good performances by Branagh and Stanley Tucci. And one of the earliest 'blink and you miss it' appearance of a very young Tom Hiddleston.