I don't necessarily think 'either' choice is the BEST one for maximum appreciation.

Of course there are many details in the book that give deeper background to what happens on the screen. However, I adored The Godfather for many years, and became a member of this board without even having touched the book...and I still haven't.

So I still feel that while the novel helps and hats off to those who constantly refer to it...reading the book to me is not a factor in appreciating the film.

However, if one DOES read the book first, I cannot imagine them not wanting to then run out & see the movie!!!

Apple