The Godfather (1972)

The Godfather is the multigenerational saga of the rise of the Corleone family under patriarch Vito Corleone (Marlon Brando), and the subsequent transition of power to his youngest son, Michael Corleone (Al Pacino).

The story, set in the 1940s and early 1950s, begins as Don Vito Corleone, the head of a New York Mafia family, oversees his daughter's wedding. His beloved son Michael has just come home from the war, but does not intend to become part of his father's business. Through Michael's life the nature of the family business becomes clear. The business of the family is just like the head of the family, kind and benevolent to those who give respect, but given to ruthless violence whenever anything stands against the good of the family.

When Vito Corleone is shot by a drug dealer, Michael reluctantly takes over the family's criminal affairs. As he navigates the treacherous waters of organized crime, Michael transforms from a reluctant family outsider to a ruthless mafia boss, losing his personal identity in the process. The film explores themes of family loyalty, power, revenge, and the American Dream, creating a masterpiece that is widely regarded as one of the greatest films of all time.