The Godfather Reveals Don Corleone’s Favorite Son in the First 8 Minutes
In “The Godfather,” Vito Corleone tends to hide his emotions and preferences, yet it’s not difficult to guess his preferred son. Despite the movie’s stellar ensemble, Marlon Brando skillfully portrays Vito Corleone as a character who stands out. The family patriarch speaks with a slow, measured cadence that makes him an intimidating figure in any circumstance. His true sentiments and motives can be tricky to decipher, especially because his eyes are often shrouded in darkness, but he occasionally provides subtle clues that expose his deeper thoughts.
In The Godfather, Marlon Brando may not appear frequently on screen, yet he delivers memorable lines and scenes that underscore Vito’s dominance over the other characters. This demonstrates how crucial Vito is to the entire trilogy, even after his demise, as his commitment to safeguarding his family serves as a stark contrast to Michael’s rule as Don. Despite not showing much external emotion, it becomes evident that Vito is deeply devoted to his family, especially during the flashbacks in The Godfather Part II.
The Godfather’s Wedding Photo Scene Confirms Don Corleone’s Favorite Son
Vito Refuses To Take A Family Photo Without Michael
The well-known opening scene of “The Godfather” unfolds during Connie’s wedding. Francis Ford Coppola skillfully crafted a realistic ambiance for this scene, encouraging actors to spontaneously converse in character as the camera moves from one tableau to another. A significant moment occurs when the Corleone family aligns for a group photo. Vito stands with his wife, Connie, Sonny, Fredo, and Tom, but he firmly declares, “The picture won’t be taken without Michael.” It seems significant that he mentions Michael by name in this instance, implying a specific need for his presence rather than just wanting everyone together.
Vito’s actions and words subtly reveal a deep connection between him and Michael. At first glance, it might appear insignificant that he left the family portrait without Michael. However, Vito always chooses his words carefully, so his decision carries significant weight. Much later, after an assassination attempt, Vito and Michael discuss business matters, but Vito pauses to express, “I never wanted this for you.” This statement is not about doubting Michael’s abilities or fearing danger for the family; it’s a more straightforward and emotionally charged sentiment.
Over the years, Vito has endured immense hardships in his line of work, and he yearns for Michael to escape from this harsh reality.
Why Michael Was Don Corleone’s Favorite Son
Vito Saw Elements Of Himself In Michael
It’s understandable that Vito might favor Michael out of all his sons, as he demonstrates the necessary skills to manage the family business. Even when Michael insisted he wanted no part in it, Vito may have recognized these traits. Despite Michael managing things differently than his father would have, they both share a strong commitment and ruthlessness that propels them towards success. Michael’s actions, such as taking down McCluskey and Sollozzo, prove that Vito placed his trust in him wisely, and standing watch over his father at the hospital further solidifies this.
Tom Hagen is often seen as an outsider within the family, but that doesn’t change the fact that Sonny and Fredo are still part of it. Vito seems to favor Michael more because he manages to find a good balance between the two extremes his brothers represent – Sonny’s impulsive, passionate outbursts that can blur judgment, and Fredo’s timidness and disloyalty. In other words, Michael doesn’t let Sonny’s unpredictable temper or Fredo’s anxious conscience get in the way of making decisions that are both sensible and decisive, which is a reflection of Vito’s shrewd approach to business.
The deep affection Vito held for Michael adds poignancy to his sad decline. Despite Vito’s aspirations for Michael, he gets pulled into the family enterprise. Initially, Vito might have admired Michael’s choice to serve in the military and establish a life separate from the family, but eventually, he comes back when he realizes that his siblings aren’t capable of assuming control. In The Godfather, the resemblance between Michael and Vito is frequently emphasized; however, it’s their contrasting traits that lead to the disintegration of the family following Vito’s demise.
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2025-05-30 18:29