I watched the entire DVD set of "The Godfather" trilogy over a long weekend, and it made for one of the most engrossing, entertaining times I've spent at home alone.The first two films, certainly, are the greatest of the series. The third is lacking, but not a disaster, and serves as a fitting conclusion to the story, for the most part.
What the films have, though, is one of the greatest ensemble casts ever assembled. Brando, Pacino, Cazale, Caan, Duvall, Keaton and De Niro come together in the epic story of the violent rise and the epic, disturbing downfall of the Corleone family.
Though the third film, in which the tragedy of Mary's death is downplayed somewhat by Sofia Coppola's inept performance (if only Winona Ryder hadn't had that nervous breakdown and created an emotional, compelling Mary that we could've actually cared for...), is a disappointment, the overall story is a grand one.
The extras on the DVD are welcome, particularly the documentary detailing the behind-the-scenes troubles on the first and second films. Coppola, on the commentary, comes off as a bit of an egomaniac, but that bravado of his is wholly earned.
This is a must-have for any collector.
