The Godfather
The original film The Godfather, the first movie in a 3 film trilogy, takes place in the 1940’s in New York City shortly after the conclusion of World War II. One of the main characters, Vito Corleone, runs one of the most prestigious, yet deadly Mob gangs of New York City (as well as the United States) along with his sons Michael, Santino, and Fredo. Early in the movie, Vito meets with Virgil Solazzo, a “top narcotics man”, to discuss a possible business partnership. Skeptical of the proposal, Vito declines the offer citing political and financial risks to his “family”. In spite of rejecting the offer, Vito insists that his decision was based purely on business and political savvy, rather than personal feelings. Feeling bitter and angry, Solazzo partners with the Tatagglia family, a rival “family” of the Corleone’s in New York City. The Tatagglia’s attempt to assassinate Don Vito, but were unsuccessful. With Vito recovering in the hospital for an extended period of time, Santino takes over the family and orders a series of violent attacks in response to the assassination attempt on his Father. Amid the violence, Santino is assassinated and Michael takes over the family business for the duration of the film (and the rest of the trilogy).
Overall, the film has a variety of elements from the Empire, but also promotes a variety of virtues and values that are consistent with the Kingdom. Concerning the Empire, the film has a plethora of events that occur as a result of the desire for vengeance. Throughout the film, violent vengeance was referred to as promoting “justice” or in other cases, “They hit us first, so we hit ‘em back.” The empire tells us that vengeance is almost always justified if somebody treats you poorly or hurts you in some way. In many ways, the empire insists that bad things happen to people who deserve it. The kingdom, however, insists that mankind ought to bless his or her enemies regardless of how poorly they may have first acted. Concerning vengeance, Romans 12:17-22 says, “Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. On the other hand, the film has a variety of moments that promote positive values that are consistent with the kingdom. Specifically, Vito Corleone emphasizes the importance of providing for one’s family, having mutual respect for others, and valuing genuine friendship.
Questions
1) As a society, do we value frienship or family the same way as many did during the 1940's ?
2) Though the film takes place in an entirely different time period and social environment, is it safe to say that certain principles and virtues will always be cherished and valued ?
Good points about vengeance, Scott. To push it a little further, though, how does the film comment on the use of violence and vengeance? Is it glorified or is it condemned?
ReplyDeleteI appreciate how The Godfather series is honest about the isolation and devastation that result from vengeance. As Michael becomes more powerful, he becomes more distanced from his wife and children and more dependent on maintaining power for his family, at the expense of others. Violence truly begets violence in these films.