The original Godfather was played by Marlon Brando, one of the most iconic actors in film history. Brando’s portrayal of Vito Corleone in the 1972 film adaptation of Mario Puzo’s novel The Godfather is widely regarded as one of the greatest performances in cinema. In this essay, we will explore Brando’s life and career, his approach to playing Vito Corleone, and the impact of his performance on the film industry.
Early Life and Career
Marlon Brando was born on April 3, 1924, in Omaha, Nebraska. His parents, Marlon Brando Sr. and Dorothy Julia Pennebaker, were both from prominent Midwestern families. Brando’s father was a chemical salesman, and his mother was an aspiring actress. However, their marriage was troubled, and they divorced when Brando was 11 years old. Brando’s mother moved the family to Santa Ana, California, where she struggled with alcoholism and frequently left Brando and his siblings with relatives.
Despite his difficult upbringing, Brando showed an early talent for acting. He attended the Dramatic Workshop of the New School in New York City, where he studied under Stella Adler and learned the principles of method acting. Brando’s early stage career was marked by a series of impressive performances, including his role in the Broadway production of A Streetcar Named Desire, which earned him critical acclaim and a reputation as one of the most promising young actors of his generation.
Film Career
Brando’s film career began in 1950, when he was cast in the lead role of the film adaptation of A Streetcar Named Desire. His performance in the film was widely praised, and he quickly became one of the most sought-after actors in Hollywood. Brando continued to work in film throughout the 1950s, starring in a series of critically acclaimed films, including On the Waterfront and The Wild One.
Approach to Playing Vito Corleone
When Marlon Brando was cast as Vito Corleone in The Godfather, he was already an established and respected actor in Hollywood. However, he was known for his difficult and unpredictable behavior on set, which made some members of the production team nervous about working with him.
Brando’s approach to playing Vito Corleone was unique in that he insisted on using method acting techniques to fully embody the character. He gained weight for the role, and wore a set of false teeth to give himself a more jowly appearance. He also worked with a dialect coach to perfect the character’s Italian accent.
Brando’s performance in The Godfather is widely regarded as one of the greatest in film history. He brought a sense of gravitas and humanity to the character of Vito Corleone, making him a sympathetic and complex figure despite his involvement in organized crime. Brando’s performance was marked by his use of subtle gestures and expressions, which conveyed a wealth of emotion and meaning.
Impact on the Film and the Industry
Marlon Brando’s performance in The Godfather had a significant impact on the film and the industry as a whole. The film was a critical and commercial success, and went on to win multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Brando.
Brando’s performance as Vito Corleone set a new standard for acting in Hollywood. His use of method acting techniques, including his physical transformation and his immersion in the character’s mindset, inspired a new generation of actors to take their craft more seriously. Brando’s performance also helped to elevate the status of the crime drama genre, and paved the way for other classic films in the same vein, such as Goodfellas and The Departed.
Brando’s impact on the film industry extended beyond his performances on screen. He was known for his outspokenness and his willingness to challenge the status quo, both in Hollywood and in society at large. Brando was an advocate for civil rights and Native American rights, and used his platform as a celebrity to draw attention to important social issues. He also famously declined the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in The Godfather in protest of Hollywood’s treatment of Native Americans.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Marlon Brando’s portrayal of Vito Corleone in The Godfather is a landmark achievement in the history of cinema. Brando’s approach to the role, which involved a deep immersion in the character’s mindset and physical transformation, set a new standard for acting in Hollywood. His performance as Vito Corleone remains one of the most iconic in film history and has inspired generations of actors to take their craft more seriously. Brando’s impact on the film industry extended beyond his performances on screen, as he used his platform as a celebrity to draw attention to important social issues and advocate for change. Marlon Brando’s legacy as an actor and cultural icon is secure, and his contribution to the world of film will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.
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