“The Godfather,” a classic American film released in 1972, is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made. The movie portrays a powerful family in the American Mafia known as the Corleones and their rise to power. The central question of the movie revolves around the identity of the villain. Who is it? Is it the main character, Michael Corleone, or someone else entirely?
At first glance, Michael Corleone (played by Al Pacino) appears to be the hero of the story. He is a young war hero who initially wants nothing to do with his family’s criminal empire. However, circumstances force him into the family business, and he quickly becomes a ruthless and capable mafia boss. Some argue that Michael is the true villain of the movie, given his willingness to commit murder and his eventual complete takeover of the Corleone family.
On the other hand, there are those who argue that the real villain of “The Godfather” is actually the patriarch of the Corleone family, Vito Corleone (played by Marlon Brando). While Vito is portrayed as a loving and caring father figure, he is also responsible for creating and perpetuating a violent criminal underworld. Many point to Vito’s actions throughout the movie, including his role in the murder of rival gang leader Sollozzo, as evidence of his villainous nature.
Other potential villains in the movie include characters like Virgil Sollozzo (a rival gang leader), Captain McCluskey (a corrupt police officer), and even the entire Corleone family itself. Each of these characters plays a significant role in driving the plot forward and influencing the actions of the others.
Ultimately, the answer to the question of who is the villain in “The Godfather” is subjective and depends on one’s interpretation of the film. Some viewers may see Michael Corleone as the ultimate villain, while others may view him as a tragic hero pushed into a life of crime by circumstance. Similarly, Vito Corleone can be seen as either a loving father or a ruthless criminal mastermind depending on one’s perspective.
Regardless of who is ultimately deemed the villain, “The Godfather” remains a captivating and nuanced exploration of power, family, and loyalty. The movie’s complex characters and intricate plot have cemented its place in cinematic history and continue to captivate audiences today.