The Godfather Collection

Here's an offer you can't refuse: all three original "Godfather" films (not the chronological version aired on television) and a bonus disc containing a wealth of archival goodies that take viewers deep inside Francis Ford Coppola and Mario Puzo's epic saga of the Corleone family. While the "making of" documentary The Godfather Family: A Look Inside, featuring Al Pacino, James Caan and Diane Keaton's screen tests, was previously available on VHS, Coppola's meticulous and revealing commentary for each film is exclusive to this DVD set. His convincing case for casting his daughter Sofia in a pivotal role in The Godfather III is quickly undone by actually watching her woeful performance. Critical reaction to that 1990 film, for which "Godfather" devotees waited 16 years, was mixed (no Robert Duvall and that convoluted Catholic conspiracy plot) and today its biggest claim to fame is the classic line, "just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in," which provided The Sopranos (who appear here in a hidden Easter egg) with one of its funniest reference points. That leaves The Godfather and the arguably even better The Godfather II, both Best Picture winners, and both among the most quotable films of all time. Surprisingly, minor speckling blemishes the picture quality, but that should not diminish demand for and enjoyment of one of DVD's Most Wanted. Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. (K. Lee Benson)