I think it's great that Puzo and Coppola don't really show how hardcore the top Corleone Enforcers are. In fact, the irony of it was they are always elluded to, in terms of their abilities, but never really given a chance to shine. For instance Luca Brasi, was quite possibly the most fear enforcer in the Godfather universe, but he is killed in the bar scene in GF I.

Al Neri, for those of who read the book, was like Luca Brasi #2. He was in GF I, killed Barzini by dressing up as a cop. Always in the background of GF II and in GF III. But he has such a minor role as en enforcer it's outstanding although his abilities were elluded to in the book.

Finally the hitman in GF II, who accompanys Michael to Havana is hardcore looking but meets with a timely death.

Now, not so much Neri, but Brazi and the Hitman from GF II are pretty much two of the most intimidating characters but both are punked off without an elaboration or visulatization of their abilities. Was it Coppola and Puzo's intention to just have their reputations preceed them or was there another point?

Welcome, UnderBoss. I hope to see many more though-provoking posts from you; you've certainly started well.

And it's a good point you acknowledge. Although Brasi's, and more so Neri's, abilities were shown in depth in the novel, it was in extensive flashback. Perhaps Coppola (and/or Puzo) wanted to show the brains aspect of the Family business. Vito's mental strengths were paramount over his physical attributes, and thus both the novel and film concentrate on how his brains got the Family out--he is the puppeteer, the one in control, and his enforcers are simply his puppets, whose actions in carrying out their Don's wishes are simply taken for granted. In short, I think Coppola wanted to show that a successful Mafia Family needs brains as well as phyical strength.

Mick

I never really though of it, UnderBoss, but your right. This is very intereesting, it kind of leaves a mysterious glow to the hitman, Neri, and Brasi.

Oh and Welcome-I hope to see more from you.