The funny thing about John, and all screen actors, is that they don't really die, do they ? Making movies is a form of immortality. All five of his pictures are iconic and, every time you watch one, there he is - back to life!
Yu are correct! Me and my older friend talked about people being forgotten only a few months or years after they die. But I told him I don't think so. There are special people who lives forever some of them are in the field if arts whether they are performing artists or writers or painters and sculptor or architects and scientists and inventors saints, etc.the list is endless!
But I think the magic of him is how he was in 5 of the greatest movies ever made. Had he lived, he would not have maintained that level of movie work--though I do believe he would have done amazing things on the stage. I'd revise this to say: art of the theater or the art of acting--in general. Look how Pacino basically went into semi-retirement in the 80s. Not many good movies being done.
@@jacobadams5924 I disagree with "he would not have maintained that level of movie work". Yes, his stage work was awesome and he would probably continue to do that too, but I don't think he would give up film work. He was a great actor whose natural talent inspired other actors and he was respected and revered by fellow actors and film directors. I believe the quality of his work would attract the attention of great writers, producers and directors who would cast him in great movies and his work would be rewarded with accolades and awards going forward.
If ANYONE deserves a posthumous Oscar, it's him! None of those movies would have been as great if it hadn't been for his roles and acting contributions!
But honestly, to what degree? Taking Pacino, Hackman, DeNiro, Walken out of any of those films, respectively, is devastating. Without Cazale, certainly lesser, but not disastrous.
Dear John Cazale. Terribly Talented. Terribly Missed. It’s hard to believe that 43 years will have passed since his untimely death on March 13, 1978. Fortunately, his work on these films will remain timeless. Eternal Rest Be Yours, John.
My late mother-in-law was a schoolteacher in Massachusetts.....John was one of her pupils. He's buried @ Holy Cross Cemetery in Malden....I have visited.
Imagine having to play Fredo in a movie full of strong characters. He goes from weak to smooth and confident to weak again. He died but his performance shall live on forever.
I absolutely agree. The hero often gets the credit but it's usually overlooked how skilful it is to play a less sympathetic character. Warren Oates could do this as well. Good call.
@@owentuckett938 Oh Man. Warren Oates in The Border. Perfectly played jerk. I'll always remember his searing remark to Jack Nicholson: "I might have known your mother".
I came here accidentally, and so glad I watched this video about John Cazale. He was a gifted actor. May he rest in peace. Ironically this is the anniversary of his death, 43 years ago. Wow.
It's easy to be the front man or the lead sometimes. Being the middle-man or support role often puts you in a blank spot where you are respected yet unmentioned. Like a middle child..."Big bro, little sister, what about me?".
@@kellymcentee2148 every analysis I've seen of Cazale has explicitly stated he was such a good actor that he elevated every other actor around him. I've also seen the likes of Pacino, De Niro and others say exactly the same.
In a past life as a magazine writer, I interviewed Pacino and brought up Cazale. Just upon mentioning his name, Pacino said, "John! My lifelong friend! My mentor!" Note he said "HIS" mentor, and not the other way around.
The confession scene is a Master class on acting. Fredo's body takes the shape of the chair, disappearing into it. The chair looks miserably uncomfortable. It's perfect for Fredo. He can't make eye contact with Michael. As he confesses you can feel how nothing else has occupied his mind since being found out in Havana almost two years earlier. Nothing. He needs to tell Michael why he did it, to absolve himself of this sin so he can have some peace while at the same time he understands that he is sealing his fate in doing so. Fredo is so weak of character he needs Michael to force it out of him, which he does just by being present. John Cazale owns this scene. His understated nuance is brilliant.
It's also so heartbreaking. He's so weak in character he doesn't understand or doesn't see anything wrong in the answer to "What's in it for me?" includes having his brother bumped off...
And leave it to the great Pacino to play the straight man during that scene for his talented, supporting actor and friend. A more egotistical actor might have been tempted to flex along with John. But Pacino gave all the space to John. That's not to say that Pacino's acting in that scene was not as equally flawless. Indeed, who's the underrated actor here anyway?
This is a terrific description/analysis of Cazale's brilliance in this scene (including his physical movement choices). I'll add that his death scene is equally brilliant. A lesser actor would have gone for more emotional, even desperate notes in the boat. Cazale doesn't. He's resigned to his fate, and wants to go quietly and with dignity. As soon as he says at the pier, "Let's go, Al," we know that he knows what's going to happen, and that he has accepted it and is even at peace with it. Just brilliant.
I was in awe of Cazale after I watched those five movies many years ago. But when I heard other actors talk about how deeply in awe they were of his talent -- DeNiro, Pacino and Streep, to name a few -- when those three bow down to you? Anyway, you lucky young folks, go watch those five movies. I'd give anything to watch them for the first time again. You know the other three actors. Now go get in awe of of Cazale.
To be honest, all the video does is tell you what is happening in a number of scenes from different films that featured John Cazale. Anyone who has watched these films will know the presence that John had in those films. Whatever point the narrator was trying to make about John's performance in Dog Day Afternoon was drowned out by the music of the Deer Hunter. So, if it was simply the intention of the narrator to draw attention to his acting, I think most people who are familiar with his work would have known that.
Not judging. Just the simple fact that he deserved a nomination that year. It seems more relevant after his early passing. But no one saying that, is diminishing his performances. Hollywood is all about oscars sadly now they are handed out to keep things cool
@@callmeishmael7452 Never thought about that but YES! And I just watched an interview with Al Pacino talking about Cazale in which he said John absolutely idolized Brando and especially the little things about Brando's movements and speech; saying to Al on the set "Did you see the way Marlon did that little move..." kinda stuff. Pacino also said that Cazale would say lines where what was going on was really expressing some emotion he had rather than "what the text 'said' is to be expressed" so again, you can see him pulling that intense sorrow and frustration from Brando's delivery and delivering that himself -- and that sad little whine and sagging body is more memorable than the line. So you might be absolutely right on target there!
@@googiwaumer What I found stunning and actually shocking in that boathouse scene is that in his anger, not only does Cazale start to speak with some of the cadences of his father/Brando, he actually starts to look like him; the pugnacious jawline & chin, even the forehead...he somehow manages to look like his father's son in this, his worst moment.
He was nothing short of brilliant Every performance was stellar Any character he did - he was - he became that character Every film he was in was nominated for best picture Such a shame he was taken away from the world so soon
Ever since I was very young, my dad made it a point to teach me about Cazale. The 5-for-5 is a stat that has always stuck in my mind. Of course, his acting is absolutely brilliant. The main shot that has always stuck out to me was from "The Deer Hunter", where he looks into the reflection of a car window. In the look, it seems like he is taking stock of his remaining days. Truly heartbreaking.
He is a superb actor. Wild to believe he did 5 flicks in six years with best movie nomination. He was an obvious reason. Thanks for the respectful production. Just say three hail Mary's . . . .
Brilliant examination of a brilliant actor! A dear cousin of mine knew John personally back then and I can still 'hear' her telling me for hours about all his talent. John was venerated while he was with us; so often it takes years after one's passing to achieve such acclaim. Is nice to remember John and my Virginia--RIP both! Many thanks!
My best friend Billy Ray and I played together in bands for years. Once, in North Carolina on the road we went to see a day matinee. The film was Dog Day Afternoon. Billy Ray died 2 years ago. This film always reminds me of him.
That was the first film I saw him in. Also my first time seeing Al Paccino. I was about 14 and thought I'd just witnessed the best acting in history. I still love that film, they were both magnificent.
I don't know much about acting, but I do remember being impressed by this actor's ability to make himself look weak. When the tendency in many movies is to be the hero.
Poor, simple Fredo. Even his own mother made him feel like an outsider. A gypsy. The family’s enemies used his need to belong against him. He wanted to stand up like a man. Like Pop - the only person in the series who showed him love - and it cost him everything. There’s a scene in part 2. A flashback to New York City and a young Fredo has pneumonia. The scene where the old Italian woman places a match in a glass upside down on the infants chest. Old world magic to draw the bad spirits out of his chest. A young DiNiro is distraught at the sickness of his son. I’ve often thought the terrible fever he must have suffered, is what made him “dumb”. Brain damage that made him simple. The first born, destined to become his fathers heir, relegated to an errand boy. It’s a sad story that almost goes unnoticed. Cannot wait for you analysis of Dog Day Afternoon. Had to pause while my thoughts were fresh! Thanks so much Poor guy was taken too soon.
this glass technique was used throughout europe, and in Chinese medicine was known as cupping. closing scene of dangerous liasons, we see michelle pfieffer's character undergo same.
I guess he also felt disregarded in that sense (not being recognized), but all I can say is this... he was always a theatre actor. He changed the way of doing things for many others on stage, His life was the stage and his passion. He stepped on stage thousands of times. He just did a few for film. He was an actor's actor. And those are the ones who can take an entire stage and an entire audience in, day after day, with their soul. I believe true actors have to take the stage and cope with the fact that their performance is just what happened NOW, something you just can't do in a movie with 3 or 100 takes... you'll always "look" good, no matter what. Theatre IS "real", and then it's gone forever but in our soul, film is a snippet of a cut and is there forever embedded in a print. Oscars and BAFTA's are not for people like John.
@@pinehawk9600 Its the Godfather Saga: Novel for Television version that Frances made years ago. It also includes all those deleted scenes. It's the best version of the movies imo. But yea it's not easy to find. I had to torrent a copy years ago. Still watch it all the time
This is a great video on John Cazale, I'm a huge fan of him and I'm glad to know others are too. I really wish he could have had a star role for a film as opposed to a supporting actor. Gone too soon
I love the way Michael keeps telling Fredo 'you're my brother and I love you' all the way through both films, and makes excuses for his weaknesses, then has him shot once their mother had died.
He seems to always look down at him though, sure he loves him and always took care of him but he always treated him as younger brother and like he was below him. Perhaps that's why he couldn't forgive him, he can't accept that Fredo actually challenges him, very humiliating to be challenged and betrayed by someone like Fredo even if he's his older brother. Though Mike seemed very strong on principles too, you just can't forgive a brother who almost got you killed how much you love him. Mike is an extremely interesting character too, I can't tell if he has empathy and something good in him or if he's a total psychopath or if this is just the way he expects to be being the leader of a maffia family, so he's just seeing what he has to do closing out everything else.
John as Fredo is absolutely heartbreaking, I think he deserves a supporting actor Oscar for that role. One of the really great actors, wish he had been able to do more movies but he really showed who he is as an actor during his short career.
don't know why ytube put this in my recommendations today, with this being 2 years old, but I couldn't be happier it did. such a subtle and thoughtful examination without trying to add to the narrative like so many other examinations do. can't wait to watch part 2 and get into Dog Day Afternoon.....
I'm a musician who also loves movies ...I've been a musician for 34 years and I don't know anything technical about film or acting though I love it. It was in an interview with Al Pacino that he spoke of the incredible acting ability of John Cazale and how he missed him, that's when I started paying attention to John. His role in the Deer Hunter is amazing.
Hyperbole. John was a great actor but so were many others that he got to work with. Many thousands more too, most of whom you've never heard of and who are well outside of the Hollywood star system.
Such a good actor. Lots of actors can play the brash, two dimensional, stereotyped Holywood hero but very few can show human weakness and vulnerability in the way that John Cazale could. That takes real talent.
People who are far ahead of their time or their contemporaries have one thing in common...They all died too young...Cazale was one of those actors...I can see his scenes in the godfather 20 times in a row and find something new he did subtly
There’s a part in The Deer Hunter that always tugs at the strings. It’s after the 1st hunt and they roll back to the bar singing Drop Kick Me Jesus. Right before the piano playing, you can see John holding a beer. There is a second where he hesitates before drinking. He takes a big breath and he drinks. Keep in mind, he was dying during filming. I believe we see an actual human moment of a man knowing he is dying. That was probably the sweetest taste of beer that man ever experienced. It’s sad and very poignant at the same time.
You're not wrong. Michael says as much in the next scene. I think initially he felt the shock, anger, and disgust. The look on his face, he's reeling from the discovery. The heartbreak comes after sitting with the betrayal. Thanks for watching and engaging in the comments!
Every time I watch Godfather 1 and 2, Fredo just breaks my heart. The way Cazale plays it, where Fredo knows he's a letdown, knows he's not as smart or as strong as his siblings, just kills me.
i love when he says "im smart! Not like everybody says...like, dumb...im SMART!" its so tragically goofy. Youre soo onboard with him in that moment until he says "like, dumb"... its just a head in hand, sigh moment. Ohhhhh Freddo
When I was very young I watched this movie and my heart felt so sad for this character. I could not understand then how amazing this actor was. I cried when he was killed. That is when you know an actor is that good. 🥰 His beauty was rare and captivating.
Thank you for such a stunningly in depth look into the acting life of John Cazale (pts 1&2). Such a wonderful actor, in roles that are truly unforgettable. You made a stormy Sunday night great! 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾✌🏾💕
5 films, 5 Best Picture nominations. In the interest of distilling things, I give you this distillation of his shooting-star career arc....5 for 5 eliminates any weak-ass argument of 'coincidental'. 3 of which WON Best Picture.
WHOA!! I just stumbled onto this and was riveted the whole way through. You sure can highlight a scene and I completely love your analysis and with such a beautiful voice.
Watching this for the 3rd time. Such an under appreciated actor. Seeing the scene about smoking and cancer in Dog Day Afternoon was really sad in hind sight.
"... and like with many gifted artists, it's hard not to imagine what would have been" (54:00-05). My imagination says Pesci inherited Cazale's mantle. I thought I was hearing Joe in John during the third act of The Deer Hunter.
First I remembered of hearing of Cazale was a documentary on Meryl Streep; they were engaged and she took care of him until he died. She was still obviously affected by him and his death, so many years later.
Fredo was the sickly child in Godfather2, they tried to cure him with that smoky glass on his chest. Poor kid. Slapped down by Sonny, drawn to then humiliated by floozy women. Kind of patronised by Michael. Tried to strike out on his own but wan't even cunning enough to cover his tracks.
Thanks for doing this tribute to a fine actor. My favorite scene in the Godfather is the famous "I'm smaht" scene. It was just so believable and so sad.
Thank you so much for making this!! You have some serious talent if you made this yourself. That hour went by so fast and now I’m gonna go back and watch The Godfather👍
John Cazale was a criminally under appreciated support actor of the time. He doesn’t nearly get the same respect as the other actors of the time but real cinema fans understand true talent when they see it. Whenever I think of John, I always think about Paul Dano and the similarities in terms of their acting style and what they bring as a supporting character to their roles. May eternal peace be yours John.
The funny thing about John, and all screen actors, is that they don't really die, do they ? Making movies is a form of immortality. All five of his pictures are iconic and, every time you watch one, there he is - back to life!
Yep. I love knowing others realize that as well. Well done.
Well said
Very deep, John T. Should have thought about that myself. Not.
Yu are correct! Me and my older friend talked about people being forgotten only a few months or years after they die. But I told him I don't think so. There are special people who lives forever some of them are in the field if arts whether they are performing artists or writers or painters and sculptor or architects and scientists and inventors saints, etc.the list is endless!
The monologue in Babylon reiterates this brilliantly
I think everyone can agree that the loss of Cazale to the art of Cinema cannot be overestimated.
But I think the magic of him is how he was in 5 of the greatest movies ever made. Had he lived, he would not have maintained that level of movie work--though I do believe he would have done amazing things on the stage. I'd revise this to say: art of the theater or the art of acting--in general. Look how Pacino basically went into semi-retirement in the 80s. Not many good movies being done.
@@jacobadams5924 I disagree with "he would not have maintained that level of movie work". Yes, his stage work was awesome and he would probably continue to do that too, but I don't think he would give up film work. He was a great actor whose natural talent inspired other actors and he was respected and revered by fellow actors and film directors. I believe the quality of his work would attract the attention of great writers, producers and directors who would cast him in great movies and his work would be rewarded with accolades and awards going forward.
If ANYONE deserves a posthumous Oscar, it's him! None of those movies would have been as great if it hadn't been for his roles and acting contributions!
But honestly, to what degree? Taking Pacino, Hackman, DeNiro, Walken out of any of those films, respectively, is devastating. Without Cazale, certainly lesser, but not disastrous.
I was just thinking that exactly.
Dear John Cazale. Terribly Talented. Terribly Missed. It’s hard to believe that 43 years will have passed since his untimely death on March 13, 1978. Fortunately, his work on these films will remain timeless.
Eternal Rest Be Yours, John.
My late mother-in-law was a schoolteacher in Massachusetts.....John was one of her pupils.
He's buried @ Holy Cross Cemetery in Malden....I have visited.
C'mon Fredo, what the hell were you thinking
Imagine having to play Fredo in a movie full of strong characters. He goes from weak to smooth and confident to weak again. He died but his performance shall live on forever.
Cazale made it posible for one the best ever Limbaugh's quip of calling Chris Cuomo "Fredo"
@@veritasetlibertas7889 ok
@@veritasetlibertas7889 stfu
@@avid2112 When your mother ...
@@veritasetlibertas7889 Ohhh are you triggered Karen?
I always felt that Cazale was underrated and had just too small of a body of work. Thanks for giving him due respect.
I absolutely agree. The hero often gets the credit but it's usually overlooked how skilful it is to play a less sympathetic character. Warren Oates could do this as well. Good call.
@@owentuckett938 Oh Man. Warren Oates in The Border. Perfectly played jerk. I'll always remember his searing remark to Jack Nicholson: "I might have known your mother".
He just died too young. If he had carried on, his legacy would have been much stronger.
yeah good reviewer
I came here accidentally, and so glad I watched this video about John Cazale. He was a gifted actor. May he rest in peace. Ironically this is the anniversary of his death, 43 years ago. Wow.
Al Pacino said he learned more about acting from John than from anyone else.
Q
It's easy to be the front man or the lead sometimes. Being the middle-man or support role often puts you in a blank spot where you are respected yet unmentioned. Like a middle child..."Big bro, little sister, what about me?".
@@kellymcentee2148 every analysis I've seen of Cazale has explicitly stated he was such a good actor that he elevated every other actor around him. I've also seen the likes of Pacino, De Niro and others say exactly the same.
In a past life as a magazine writer, I interviewed Pacino and brought up Cazale. Just upon mentioning his name, Pacino said, "John! My lifelong friend! My mentor!" Note he said "HIS" mentor, and not the other way around.
Pacino learned everything from Lee S. (can’t spell his last name but he played Hymen Roth in The Godfather Part II)
The confession scene is a Master class on acting. Fredo's body takes the shape of the chair, disappearing into it. The chair looks miserably uncomfortable. It's perfect for Fredo. He can't make eye contact with Michael. As he confesses you can feel how nothing else has occupied his mind since being found out in Havana almost two years earlier. Nothing. He needs to tell Michael why he did it, to absolve himself of this sin so he can have some peace while at the same time he understands that he is sealing his fate in doing so. Fredo is so weak of character he needs Michael to force it out of him, which he does just by being present. John Cazale owns this scene. His understated nuance is brilliant.
It's also so heartbreaking. He's so weak in character he doesn't understand or doesn't see anything wrong in the answer to "What's in it for me?" includes having his brother bumped off...
This is coming from Brando’s waterfront speech to his brother ...coulda been a a contender...”
And leave it to the great Pacino to play the straight man during that scene for his talented, supporting actor and friend. A more egotistical actor might have been tempted to flex along with John. But Pacino gave all the space to John. That's not to say that Pacino's acting in that scene was not as equally flawless. Indeed, who's the underrated actor here anyway?
This is a terrific description/analysis of Cazale's brilliance in this scene (including his physical movement choices). I'll add that his death scene is equally brilliant. A lesser actor would have gone for more emotional, even desperate notes in the boat. Cazale doesn't. He's resigned to his fate, and wants to go quietly and with dignity. As soon as he says at the pier, "Let's go, Al," we know that he knows what's going to happen, and that he has accepted it and is even at peace with it. Just brilliant.
Absolutely! Great comment! ✌🏾💕
A great actor. Tragic he died so young.
I was in awe of Cazale after I watched those five movies many years ago. But when I heard other actors talk about how deeply in awe they were of his talent -- DeNiro, Pacino and Streep, to name a few -- when those three bow down to you? Anyway, you lucky young folks, go watch those five movies. I'd give anything to watch them for the first time again. You know the other three actors. Now go get in awe of of Cazale.
He could handle things - he was smaaat!
and now he has his own show on cnn!
@@bacardibum pretty funny, incel
He’s not dumb like everyone says.
@@DIYTFY everyone?
@@DIYTFY what a dumb thing to say.
I’ve had Cazale on the mind since binging Godfather part 1-2 and Dog Day Afternoon a week ago. He shined bright in the handful of films he was in.
Was in six films, every one won the Oscar for best film.
This is criminally underviewed
Facts
To be honest, all the video does is tell you what is happening in a number of scenes from different films that featured John Cazale. Anyone who has watched these films will know the presence that John had in those films. Whatever point the narrator was trying to make about John's performance in Dog Day Afternoon was drowned out by the music of the Deer Hunter. So, if it was simply the intention of the narrator to draw attention to his acting, I think most people who are familiar with his work would have known that.
The fact that Cazale wasn't even nominated for Dog Day Afternoon is a disgrace.
@John Fitzpatrick, you should never judge actors by how many Oscar nominations they received. Who actually cares ? I certainly don't.
Not judging. Just the simple fact that he deserved a nomination that year. It seems more relevant after his early passing. But no one saying that, is diminishing his performances. Hollywood is all about oscars sadly now they are handed out to keep things cool
@@johnt7630 Yep. The Oscars are bullshit anyway.
No one remembers Oscars. They remember the films.
@@ULYSSES-31 The Oscar's used to mean something. They don't mean shit anymore.
Damn. I wish John was still around😢💔
That depiction of impotent rage while in the chair is unequalled.
Does anyone see the parallel to Brando’s waterfront scene “ I coulda been a contender”?...
@@callmeishmael7452 Never thought about that but YES! And I just watched an interview with Al Pacino talking about Cazale in which he said John absolutely idolized Brando and especially the little things about Brando's movements and speech; saying to Al on the set "Did you see the way Marlon did that little move..." kinda stuff. Pacino also said that Cazale would say lines where what was going on was really expressing some emotion he had rather than "what the text 'said' is to be expressed" so again, you can see him pulling that intense sorrow and frustration from Brando's delivery and delivering that himself -- and that sad little whine and sagging body is more memorable than the line. So you might be absolutely right on target there!
@@googiwaumer What I found stunning and actually shocking in that boathouse scene is that in his anger, not only does Cazale start to speak with some of the cadences of his father/Brando, he actually starts to look like him; the pugnacious jawline & chin, even the forehead...he somehow manages to look like his father's son in this, his worst moment.
Very well done. John Cazale is my favorite actor of all time. Thank you.
He was nothing short of brilliant Every performance was stellar Any character he did - he was - he became that character Every film he was in was nominated for best picture Such a shame he was taken away from the world so soon
Ever since I was very young, my dad made it a point to teach me about Cazale. The 5-for-5 is a stat that has always stuck in my mind. Of course, his acting is absolutely brilliant.
The main shot that has always stuck out to me was from "The Deer Hunter", where he looks into the reflection of a car window. In the look, it seems like he is taking stock of his remaining days. Truly heartbreaking.
He is a superb actor. Wild to believe he did 5 flicks in six years with best movie nomination. He was an obvious reason. Thanks for the respectful production. Just say three hail Mary's . . . .
Brilliant examination of a brilliant actor! A dear cousin of mine knew John personally back then and I can still 'hear' her telling me for hours about all his talent. John was venerated while he was with us; so often it takes years after one's passing to achieve such acclaim. Is nice to remember John and my Virginia--RIP both! Many thanks!
My best friend Billy Ray and I played together in bands for years. Once, in North Carolina on the road we went to see a day matinee. The film was Dog Day Afternoon. Billy Ray died 2 years ago. This film always reminds me of him.
John’s performance in Dog Day Afternoon is one of the greatest English language performances of the 1970’s.
That was the first film I saw him in. Also my first time seeing Al Paccino. I was about 14 and thought I'd just witnessed the best acting in history. I still love that film, they were both magnificent.
I don't know much about acting, but I do remember being impressed by this actor's ability to make himself look weak. When the tendency in many movies is to be the hero.
Best actor ever. Ever. Meryl Streep’s true love.
Great presentation. Cazale made the most of his brief career and left us with truly memorable performances.
Poor, simple Fredo. Even his own mother made him feel like an outsider. A gypsy. The family’s enemies used his need to belong against him.
He wanted to stand up like a man. Like Pop - the only person in the series who showed him love - and it cost him everything. There’s a scene in part 2. A flashback to New York City and a young Fredo has pneumonia. The scene where the old Italian woman places a match in a glass upside down on the infants chest. Old world magic to draw the bad spirits out of his chest. A young DiNiro is distraught at the sickness of his son. I’ve often thought the terrible fever he must have suffered, is what made him “dumb”. Brain damage that made him simple. The first born, destined to become his fathers heir, relegated to an errand boy. It’s a sad story that almost goes unnoticed. Cannot wait for you analysis of Dog Day Afternoon. Had to pause while my thoughts were fresh! Thanks so much Poor guy was taken too soon.
Santino was the first born!
never picked up on the baby scene. great insight
@@davidhall9110 the baby with pneumonia in that scene was Santino though. He was the first born.
this glass technique was used throughout europe, and in Chinese medicine was known as cupping. closing scene of dangerous liasons, we see michelle pfieffer's character undergo same.
He wasn't the first born. The first born was Sonny. Fredo was second born so older than Mike.
I guess he also felt disregarded in that sense (not being recognized), but all I can say is this... he was always a theatre actor. He changed the way of doing things for many others on stage, His life was the stage and his passion. He stepped on stage thousands of times. He just did a few for film. He was an actor's actor. And those are the ones who can take an entire stage and an entire audience in, day after day, with their soul. I believe true actors have to take the stage and cope with the fact that their performance is just what happened NOW, something you just can't do in a movie with 3 or 100 takes... you'll always "look" good, no matter what. Theatre IS "real", and then it's gone forever but in our soul, film is a snippet of a cut and is there forever embedded in a print. Oscars and BAFTA's are not for people like John.
This video deserves over 1M views. Quality analysis for a brilliant performer.
Excellent look at Cazale, a terrific actor.
That scene with Moe Green is absolutely incredible.
Extremely underrated video and youtuber. You deserve more my friend.
great analysis and tribute. now i have to go watch about 6 hrs of the godfather...
not watching the Saga version that's 7 hours and in chronological order
Once you start. You cant stop
@@Drew-vn8rx what is that ?
@@Drew-vn8rx I'm looking for it everywhere. I don't like watching it any other way
@@pinehawk9600 Its the Godfather Saga: Novel for Television version that Frances made years ago. It also includes all those deleted scenes. It's the best version of the movies imo. But yea it's not easy to find. I had to torrent a copy years ago. Still watch it all the time
We talked about Cazale with my brother years ago about this. So underrated. He has the best track record truly.
Fabulous appreciation of an amazing actor.
This is a great video on John Cazale, I'm a huge fan of him and I'm glad to know others are too. I really wish he could have had a star role for a film as opposed to a supporting actor. Gone too soon
This is excellent thank you for putting this together. A time when supporting actors mattered and knew what they needed to do
Thank you for this. John deserves more recognition and praise like this.
This is simply terrific. Bravo.
I love the way Michael keeps telling Fredo 'you're my brother and I love you' all the way through both films, and makes excuses for his weaknesses, then has him shot once their mother had died.
He seems to always look down at him though, sure he loves him and always took care of him but he always treated him as younger brother and like he was below him. Perhaps that's why he couldn't forgive him, he can't accept that Fredo actually challenges him, very humiliating to be challenged and betrayed by someone like Fredo even if he's his older brother. Though Mike seemed very strong on principles too, you just can't forgive a brother who almost got you killed how much you love him. Mike is an extremely interesting character too, I can't tell if he has empathy and something good in him or if he's a total psychopath or if this is just the way he expects to be being the leader of a maffia family, so he's just seeing what he has to do closing out everything else.
John as Fredo is absolutely heartbreaking, I think he deserves a supporting actor Oscar for that role. One of the really great actors, wish he had been able to do more movies but he really showed who he is as an actor during his short career.
don't know why ytube put this in my recommendations today, with this being 2 years old, but I couldn't be happier it did.
such a subtle and thoughtful examination without trying to add to the narrative like so many other examinations do.
can't wait to watch part 2 and get into Dog Day Afternoon.....
Man was in five films...all of them great.
"The Conversation" was INCREDIBLE!
I'm a musician who also loves movies ...I've been a musician for 34 years and I don't know anything technical about film or acting though I love it. It was in an interview with Al Pacino that he spoke of the incredible acting ability of John Cazale and how he missed him, that's when I started paying attention to John. His role in the Deer Hunter is amazing.
When Michael shouts "Fredo" in Godfather Part 3, it brought John back to life.
I have a dvd of a documentary about him entited "I Knew it was You." It's excellent.
Thanks this is just what I was looking for
Awesome clips together with your analyze. Cazale was one of a kind among giants. R I P
The best actor that ever lived without a doubt
The fact that you assume it's an American shows how small minded you are.
@@bonnie3447 who do you think is the greatest actor of all time then?
@@robertduvall56 Mr T. And I pity anybody who disagrees.
@@bonnie3447 no, seriously
Hyperbole. John was a great actor but so were many others that he got to work with. Many thousands more too, most of whom you've never heard of and who are well outside of the Hollywood star system.
How can anyone not get emotional watching Cazale work with Pacino in GF2.
Such a good actor. Lots of actors can play the brash, two dimensional, stereotyped Holywood hero but very few can show human weakness and vulnerability in the way that John Cazale could. That takes real talent.
People who are far ahead of their time or their contemporaries have one thing in common...They all died too young...Cazale was one of those actors...I can see his scenes in the godfather 20 times in a row and find something new he did subtly
There’s a part in The Deer Hunter that always tugs at the strings. It’s after the 1st hunt and they roll back to the bar singing Drop Kick Me Jesus. Right before the piano playing, you can see John holding a beer. There is a second where he hesitates before drinking. He takes a big breath and he drinks. Keep in mind, he was dying during filming. I believe we see an actual human moment of a man knowing he is dying. That was probably the sweetest taste of beer that man ever experienced. It’s sad and very poignant at the same time.
@@253jacksonrhoads1 I'm gonna watch the film again tonight just for your comment.
This is a beautiful Biopic of sorts mate. Loved it. Really really loved this. NO improvements required mate. Fantastic.
Michael is not “stunned and disgusted by his brother”. It’s deeper, if you watch Al’s acting, it’s closer to feeling deeply heartbroken.
You're not wrong. Michael says as much in the next scene. I think initially he felt the shock, anger, and disgust. The look on his face, he's reeling from the discovery. The heartbreak comes after sitting with the betrayal. Thanks for watching and engaging in the comments!
I got the impression Michael physically got sick for a moment. Extraordinary good acting.
Every time I watch Godfather 1 and 2, Fredo just breaks my heart. The way Cazale plays it, where Fredo knows he's a letdown, knows he's not as smart or as strong as his siblings, just kills me.
Such a beautiful man, and although he had only 5 films to his credit, he was brilliant in all 5! Remember Sal, from Dog Day Afternoon 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
Another typical story of a star that was shining so bright, only to be taken way too early. he was really something special!
i love when he says "im smart! Not like everybody says...like, dumb...im SMART!" its so tragically goofy. Youre soo onboard with him in that moment until he says "like, dumb"... its just a head in hand, sigh moment. Ohhhhh Freddo
The Academy should name an award after John, but no one would be worthy.
When I was very young I watched this movie and my heart felt so sad for this character. I could not understand then how amazing this actor was. I cried when he was killed. That is when you know an actor is that good. 🥰 His beauty was rare and captivating.
One of the greatest actors of my generation. I was lucky to have seen him onstage. Astonishing actor.
Thank you for such a stunningly in depth look into the acting life of John Cazale (pts 1&2).
Such a wonderful actor, in roles that are truly unforgettable. You made a stormy Sunday night great!
👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾✌🏾💕
Outstanding and befitting of such a great actor. Not forgotten.
Really well made. Why doesn't this have more views!?
My favorite movie cazale did was dog day afternoon,he was a genius a great actor.
The Deer Hunter wouldn't be nearly as effective without his role. And he really did break my heart in the Godfather part 2.
Seen all of his movies back in the 70's, loved everyone of them. Good job
Really well documented and brilliant video loved his work,,,well done!
He was truly one of the most underrated actors and watching this makes me wonder if he lived what his career and movies would have looked like
I can't thank you enough for this essay.
5 films, 5 Best Picture nominations. In the interest of distilling things, I give you this distillation of his shooting-star career arc....5 for 5 eliminates any weak-ass argument of 'coincidental'. 3 of which WON Best Picture.
WHOA!! I just stumbled onto this and was riveted the whole way through. You sure can highlight a scene and I completely love your analysis and with such a beautiful voice.
Watching this for the 3rd time. Such an under appreciated actor. Seeing the scene about smoking and cancer in Dog Day Afternoon was really sad in hind sight.
damn..that hour went by fast. thank you!
The greatest actor that ever lived.
"... and like with many gifted artists, it's hard not to imagine what would have been" (54:00-05). My imagination says Pesci inherited Cazale's mantle. I thought I was hearing Joe in John during the third act of The Deer Hunter.
First I remembered of hearing of Cazale was a documentary on Meryl Streep; they were engaged and she took care of him until he died. She was still obviously affected by him and his death, so many years later.
Seriously Great video! Your review is as underconsidered and underappreciated as Cazale! Great job, thoroughly enjoyed it.
Fredo was the sickly child in Godfather2, they tried to cure him with that smoky glass on his chest. Poor kid. Slapped down by Sonny, drawn to then humiliated by floozy women. Kind of patronised by Michael. Tried to strike out on his own but wan't even cunning enough to cover his tracks.
They were leeches in the glass.
Thanks for doing this tribute to a fine actor. My favorite scene in the Godfather is the famous "I'm smaht" scene. It was just so believable and so sad.
Absolutely brilliant, thank you!
Thank you so much for making this!! You have some serious talent if you made this yourself. That hour went by so fast and now I’m gonna go back and watch The Godfather👍
Excellent video. John was an extremely talented artist. Thank you for this wonderful tribute to him.
This video... this is a masterpiece. Wtf.
I’m so glad this video was made, thank you.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for making this video. I absolutely love this actor. Such a shame he passed away
What an eye-opener. Thank you
So appreciative of this gift. Thank you.
This was amazing. Thank you so much for putting this together.
I like to think he would appreciate how his mastery of his art has been appreciated.
The 70's were IT for movies. It was the height of film all over the world.
Tnx for this one. I've been saying for years Cazale is the most talented outta the younger actors as well as the most underrated.
THANK 4 THIS VIDEO...JOHN WAS AMAZING AT HIS SKILLS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I never seen that movie the conversation I'll have to watch it
Top notch movie, understated . Think tinker tailor soldier spy or king of Marvin gardens in tone and dynamic range.
John Cazale was a criminally under appreciated support actor of the time. He doesn’t nearly get the same respect as the other actors of the time but real cinema fans understand true talent when they see it. Whenever I think of John, I always think about Paul Dano and the similarities in terms of their acting style and what they bring as a supporting character to their roles. May eternal peace be yours John.
Adored him. He was great in everything he did ❤️
Excellent commentary. John was a very special actor and his body of work deserves our attention. Thanks for sharing.
Glad you enjoyed it Thanks for watching!
In every movie i remember him the most , he made all work for the rest of them! Period.
Excellent Analysis Of His Brilliant Actors' Brief, But Impactful Career!