The Godfather is a classic mafia movie that tells the story of the legend of the Corleone family. In this film, we see two godfathers in different styles: Vito and Michael. They are all leaders of mafia families, they both represent power, but they also have very different experiences and philosophies. How did they become the king of the mafia? What different fate do they have?
Vito Corleone was a child from a poor background. His father and brother were killed by a mafia boss in Sicily, so he fled to the United States. One of the most classic scenes in the second film is the landing of young Vito on Ellis Island, sitting in the same boat as other immigrants who have come to New York in search of a better future.
In contrast, Michael lived in wealth since he was a child due to his family's wealth and prestige, and was always pampered. Vito, on the other hand, was a working-class man who lived in crowded city apartments and supported his family on a meager but sufficient income.
Michael's first impression of the mafia was always glory and power. For him, they probably represent the big guy in the room and will always take care of him. Michael's goal is simply to expand it as much as possible. He wanted to legitimize the family business, enter politics and business, and become an influential figure.
Vito, seeing the darker side of the mafia. To him, these people are brutal killers: bullying everyone to extract money. His goal to climb the ladder is to reform the mafia and make it an organization that responds to the needs of the community rather than exploits it.
Both Vito and Michael have their own way of running a mafia family. Vito is a "man of the people" who earns loyalty and support with respect and fear. He cared about his family and friends, but also his community and fellow citizens. He does not resort to violence lightly, nor does he betray his principles.
Michael is a businessman who wields power and wealth with wit and ruthlessness. He only cares about his own interests and safety, and trusts only his own judgment. He did not hesitate to use violence and sacrifice his family affection.
Both of these approaches have their own advantages and disadvantages. Vito's way earned him hearts and respects, but it also left him stuck in the shackles of tradition and morality. He could not adapt to the changes of the times and could not stop the threat of the enemy. He eventually died, leaving behind a crumbling empire.
Michael's way gave him strength and wealth, but it also cost him family and friendship. He can't enjoy life and can't find true love. He ends up living alone, losing all trust and respect.
"The Godfather" is a film that shows both black and white, making us think about the relationship between power, family, morality and human nature. It also allows us to witness the different fates of the two godfathers, and their influence on the mafia.