[quote name='dmaul1114']To me the Godfather Pt 1 is just pretty much the perfect movie. Great plot, great acting, great cinematography, great character development, great score etc. I didn't find any of it boring, and I'm captivated from start to finish every time I watch it.
Watching Michael Corleone go from the innocent war hero who wants nothing to do with the family business to gradually falling to the point that he orchestrates a major hit to gain power, lies to his wife and shuts the door in her face (perfect ending! Probably my favorite ending to any movie.) is some of the most enjoyable character development in any movie IMO.
The 2nd one is great as well, but lacks that impact for me as we already know that Michael is past the point of no return. But they still do a brilliant job of contrasting his rise with his father's. His father was all about providing a better life for his family, while Michael goes completely to the darkside and seeks power at the expense of his own family--even to the point of having his own brother killed, driving his wife away etc.[/QUOTE]
Agreed. Although, I loved the ending in part II as well. That shot of Michael sitting in the condo by himself is so great.
What really puts part II on par with the first for me is Robert DeNiro. He was amazing, and the entire story of young Vito is incredible to watch.