Al Pacino plays the supporting role of Michael with fire in his eyes. His transformation, from a civilian to a Godfather in both senses of the term, is the film's main and most dynamic storyline. In almost every sense, Pacino steals the thunder out from under Brando; nonetheless, Brando's role is perhaps the most iconic role in all of cinema. His character, styled after real life mobster Frank Costello, is one of the films many highlights.

Despite an unmistakable missed punch, a few continuity issues, and an abundance of character roles to keep straight, The Godfather remains one of the most influential films in cinematic history. Not only will Brando's husky whisper continue to be copied for generations to come, but also the only fruit that shares its name with its color will always signify an impending death or violent incident.

Aside from all of the orange metaphors, The Godfather's resounding themes on the duality of man - love and hate, good and evil, loyalty and betrayal, and family and violence - allow it to emit an atmosphere like no other film. The Godfather is the utter embodiment of the ultimate "guy film", yet whether you are a male or female or a frequent or infrequent moviegoer is not dependent on how much appeal you will hold towards this first-rate pulp crime drama. Regardless of your status, you will be taken aback by its magnificence.

On The Internet Movie Database's website, The Godfather is listed as the number one favorite movie of all time, and on The American Film Institute's chart of the "100 Years...100 Movies," it is listed as the number three greatest film. First or third, there is no question why The Godfather holds a spot on a gaggle of Top 10 lists, mine included. It is a seminal classic that will only continue to steamroll sovereignty, praise, and admiration. (**** out of ****)