Although this topic has been posted before, its still a favorite and interesting to read the new posts. But for the newbies, us oldies (both age and time on the board) don't mind reminicsing.

I was 21 when GF was released. I had read the book the previous year and everyone was psyched to see the movie. There was a lot of pre-release publicity surrounding the choice of actors. People questioned the choice of Brando as Vito; who was this guy Pacino?; Caan? he doesn't look Italian!, etc. Then there was all the buzz about the horsehead scene (will they show it?)

I don't remember exactly when I saw it, but it wasn't too long after release. It was showing in one theater by us - "The 59 Theater" in Nanuet, NY. It was the biggest, newest, most comfortable seats (they rocked) and it cost more than the other theaters. Always the first-run, big-time movies. Well, the rest is history. Having seen the movie countless times, its hard to remember the impact of the first viewing. But it was special and far better than anything I'd ever seen.

GF2 played in the same theater. Again, repeated viewings have dimmed the memory of the initial viewing, but it was eagerly anticipated after GF and it didn't disappoint. Everyone love DeNiro of course.

GF3 also played in the same theater. But.......well you know. We loved it for being more Godfather, but it just didn't have the same impact.

The Godfather was also released at a time when the style and content of films was changing dramatically. A lot of social commentary type movies were being made. Violence, sex and strong language were becoming the mainstay of popular movies. The Godfather cranked it up a few notches, but with unmatched style and content. Can't wait to see how GF 4 is made.