The Godfather: Part II

Coppola made a lot of money with the first part, and it shows in the second part. A sweeping production design, hundreds and hundreds of extras, but somewhere the emotions have disappeared. Especially in the first half, the storyline with Michael Corleone is rather uninteresting. On the other hand, the memories of Vito Corleone are impressive; it is a pleasure to watch the then little-known De Niro. All my qualms were put to rest with the final act and the emotionally tense ending. The last shot of Michael Corleone's face is unforgettable, a man burdened by a heavy conscience, with wrinkles under his eyes and greying hair, a man who has gained power but lost love. (2003-10-19)

"This is the business we chose." The second part of the brilliant adaptation of an unforgettable book. Taking over the baton from Brando is the duo of Al Pacino and Robert De Niro, who are absolutely incredible. No need to add more. Simply one of the best and most essential films of world cinema. (2007-01-15)

Another incredible film epic with elements of ancient tragedy, where the characters themselves compare the Corleone family to the Roman Empire. The most favorite character for me definitely becomes Tom Hagen played by Robert Duvall, and even with its shady sides, also Michael Corleone himself. His quarrel with Kay or the look in his eyes when speaking about Ola's fate are just another proof of Pacino's devilishness. (2006-04-23)

You will probably consider me a heretic, an artistic buffoon, or an uncomprehending viewer, but I simply cannot give The Godfather II a full score. I thought the first one was better by that one star, mainly because of Marlon Brando's involvement. Al Pacino is great, but as the Godfather, Brando just suited me better. Maybe that's also why I liked the casting of Robert De Niro as Vito Corleone, who was the number one actor for me in this installment. Otherwise, the direction is great and the music is very nice. In short, a legendary film that, despite all the ovations, awards and reviews, did not force me to give it the highest rating. (2011-09-14)

I won’t claim that The Godfather II being my 1000th review was a coincidence. It wasn’t, I intentionally saved this anticipated movie experience for this very festive moment. It wasn’t worth much, though. I don’t know whether it was because of the excessive expectations, but the film never managed to pull me into the story, and I also tended to fall asleep due to the incredible runtime. The direction and the performances are flawless, but if Coppola were to film a three-hour long, very faithful adaptation of a parliamentary session with Al Pacino and De Niro, it would also get five stars, right? The sixth place in the top feels very exaggerated to me. (2008-12-14)