Wednesday 27 March 2013

The Godfather


Welcome to the world, you might tell me, but I watched the Godfather movies this week, for the first time ever. I know, crazy, right? But there is something to be said about leaving gems to be enjoyed later in life when you have a bit more brain to enjoy them. Or at least that's my excuse.

Every time I watch (listen to/read) a masterpiece, I think of my time wasted reading/listening to/watching utter and absolute shite. Truly a waste through and through. People tend to think (me included) that "light" movies/literature etc are good for one's tired mind, they take no effort and they are essentially harmless, a good time-passing device. But they give you nothing, NOTHING in return, that's the problem. Just wasted hours and a nagging feeling of annoyance.

Movies like the Godfather, now that's another story alltogether. The story, the subtlety of the "take home message", the acting, Pacino, my god Pacino is amazing. His face doesn't move. And yet he resonates pain.

I think I've heard somewhere that Michael Corleone reluctant ascent to the top of the Corleone family, in the first movie is akin to Hamlet's indecision to do what is expected of him in Shakespeare's classic. Two anti-heroes, one fate. To me though, the second movie, Michael's paranoia, total ruthlessness and utter descent to hell is really what turns this story into a masterpiece. Ah, and of course Robert de Niro's amazing performance in the parallel narrative of the, much less conflicted, Vito Colreone.

I don't have a lot more to write, besides what is there more to say about the Godfather. Only take home message from me (mostly to myself if to anyone) would be just to stop watching trash and focus on the masterpieces of this world. And there are plenty.