In The Godfather Notebook, a publication of the compiled linear notes, scene analysis, and character descriptions director Francis Ford Coppola would carry around and reference on a regular basis during the production of his esteemed classic The Godfather, there are many signs of a filmmaker who doubted his film would ever turn out the way he saw it in his head.
“Did I go too far?” reads one scribble referencing a breakdown Coppola had done earlier of a pivotal scene in the film. “Get the audience curious,” he demands himself on another page, knowing full well that all odds—including his future audience—are against him in trying to make a successful adaptation of Mario Puzo’s deeply layered and widely praised novel. Even today he seems surprised the film was welcomed by viewers at all. As he writes in the book’s introduction, “It’s quite hilarious and amazing to me that the film turned out to be the classic that it did. I realize also that it was somewhat the luck of the draw; for whatever reason, it all came together at the same time.”
Francis Ford Coppola was only 32 years old when he made what many consider to be the greatest film of all time. Throughout The Godfather Notebook—an absolute must-read for anyone who considers themself a fan of the director’s work—his vulnerability while approaching the project is apparent. One passage reads, “In truth, I think that I made the notebook out of profound fear. It’s important to understand that at the root of it all, I was terrified.” It is quite a reassuring thing to read, that the director of such a gargantuan picture felt the same pressures and anxieties that all filmmakers continue to navigate today. Movies are a miracle; the fact that they ever come together in a coherent way is an impressive feat all on its own.
With the addition of some weary studio heads, an array of production issues, and actual mob interference, it is safe to say Coppola had his work cut out for him. But on March 24th, 1972, the finished film was released and welcomed with worldwide acclaim, a Best Picture win, and an immeasurable influence. Now all Coppola had to do was make the sequel.
READ MORE: The Godfather: The Coppola Restoration review
Earlier this month I had the opportunity to experience the 50th-anniversary restoration of The Godfather alongside a sold-out crowd at a theater in the heart of Manhattan. To say the film holds up with a modern audience would be an astronomical understatement. Scenes held audience members captive with tension the same way I’d imagine they did in 1972. Classic lines were met with a shared chuckle amongst all. “Leave the gun. Take the cannoli.” Exiting the theater, walking past the rows of posters for new superhero films and franchise sequels, it was apparent that we had all just experienced a film that few will ever rival.
The Godfather is a film that manages to be a story of mob wars and family rivalries, of American capitalism and countervailing power, of loyalty, passion, and heartbreak, all at the same time. In this way, the staying power of The Godfather is unmatched. And on its 50th birthday, countless cinephiles and casual viewers alike are still in awe of its accomplishments all because Coppola, notebook in hand, managed to overcome his fears.
To read a publication of the compiled linear notes, scene analysis, and character descriptions from the director, order The Godfather Notebook by clicking here.
Host a themed movie night by ordering The Godfather 3-Movie Collection Box Set here.
To read the classic story the film is based on, order the novel The Godfather by clicking here.