The Godfather Part III: More Than Just a Disappointment

The Godfather Part III was not an instant classic like its predecessors and was heavily criticized ever since its release in 1990.

Overcoming The Godfather Part III Stigma:

However, after a long period, there is a renewed appreciation of the Godfather Part III! It might be one of the more interesting adaptations! If you haven't seen it. You've probably heard why people say it isn't a great film but those thoughts can be quite outdated! You will probably get more insight as well.

A lot of it comes from a point of how incredibly high the expectations for the movie were! It's not easy to create a film as awesome and mind-blowing as "The Godfather and "The Godfather Part II." Fans were shocked as it took 16 years before the third installment made its debut in theaters!

To some viewers, The Godfather Part III may not measure up. This has led to audiences being critical! But that could mean missing the big picture about this iconic series!

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Roman Imagery

Marlon Brando standing in his office in The Godfather Image

There's an incredible aspect of "The Godfather." It takes some unique elements of "Roman" history. What that means is a very specific structure! A connection that made audiences ponder the great family of the Corleones!

It goes a step beyond as "The Godfather Part III takes these connections and gives us a real-time sense of this epic that will keep audiences engaged!

A classic example! The movie's incredible events mirror "Julius Caesar's" death when the character's family member tries to take over!
You can see just how deeply intertwined Roman history, including a historical parallel, is throughout "The Godfather" trilogy! You could see just how it was set up that Michael would end up like an Emperor! A strong leader with major obstacles.
Even the "Roman" imagery that came about is so subtle and powerful, like seeing Frank Pentangeli, who ends up committing suicide in a tub, showing us that a "fall", in this complex family world was imminent, making those connections to "Roman" history so powerful!

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Religious Elements

Mary's death in The Godfather Part III Image

There's another unique part that gives "The Godfather Part III", something unique to the rest of the film trilogy!

It's the use of "Catholicism" as a symbol! This might have been somewhat subtle but those that saw "The Godfather Part III", got a full appreciation!

Fans remember how "Michael Corleone" (as he starts out), decides to end the violence that made him so powerful. And those memorable events that came from the Catholic Church. A memorable, and deeply moving baptism, to those dark deeds of his enemies.

But this isn't all that "The Godfather Part III" brought. The events happen within the boundaries of the "Vatican." In this specific setting you can't miss these Catholic elements. And that includes a special conversation with a "pope." "The Godfather Part III" really takes viewers to this special location in Rome!

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New-Found Meaning

Marlon Brando in the Godfather in front of the wedding scene Image

When it comes to "The Godfather Part III.", you will see these connections made through this film, as those who watch it, have noticed its real brilliance!

What makes it more complex, "The Godfather Part III" tells a more "human" story with many touching themes and some real world history intertwined as well.

The film brought together these strong characters. The character "Connie", Michael's sister. Her importance became a central point.
In an almost unexpected, and truly captivating move, she does something so audacious and gives fans something they will talk about for a while.
Connie shows her true spirit! It really stands out for the audience.

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The Power of Vincent's Addition:

It's about talent and the greatness of actors. You see Al Pacino return as "Michael Corleone" with some of the same powerful characters as those from "The Godfather" but, that was only part of what the series added!

You can see those actors such as Marlon Brando in previous films, "Robert De Niro," "Robert Duvall," "James Caan" and so many more. "The Godfather Part III," added to this "All Star", cast, and you can't ignore the epic performances from Andy Garcia, playing a very controversial, exciting character in the Godfather series.

"Vincent" is a key figure as an illegitimate son with lots to prove.
This character truly demonstrates the depth that the series adds to these relationships.

The Power of Michael's Remorse:

Michael Corleone (Al Pacino) looking serious in Cuba in The Godfather Part II Image

You can get a deeper understanding of this film series from what was shown. The entire Godfather series! What truly happens in "The Godfather" and "The Godfather Part II." brings audiences to this point with Michael's transformation, showing just how dark it can be!

The main storyline of "The Godfather Part III," follows the same compelling themes.

As Michael's story continues to unfold. There are some really profound ideas that come into play with "The Godfather Part III."

You can really appreciate his tragic downfall, an element of "remorse"!
What's really heart wrenching. The death of "Michael." The man was surrounded by violence for a lifetime, but in the final scene he dies alone and everyone else around is shocked.

Fans can get lost in all of "The Godfather Part III," which goes down in cinematic history, and brings such a profound look at the cost of ambition, and this "cycle" that "Michael Corleone" goes through in life, truly becoming a major symbol and a character who's truly memorable.

"The Godfather Part III" may just be the film to spark those discussions. It may bring you into that dark underworld but also inspire reflection, so if you haven't gotten to watch it. You may just find the real truth behind what makes "The Godfather" a saga for the ages.