Francis Ford Coppola Breaks Down His Most Iconic Films | GQ

Francis Ford Coppola breaks down his most iconic films, including 'The Godfather,' 'The Godfather: Part II,' 'Apocalypse Now,' 'The Conversation,' 'The Godfather Coda: The Death of Michael Corleone' and his newest, upcoming film, 'Megalopolis.' 'The Godfather' celebrates its 50th anniversary on March 24, 2022.
00:00 Intro
00:26 The Godfather
07:03 The Godfather: Part II
12:38 Apocalypse Now
19:56 The Conversation
22:22 The Godfather Coda: The Death of Michael Corleone
24:55 Megalopolis
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Francis Ford Coppola Breaks Down His Most Iconic Films | GQ

[@michaelchimenti2847]

Am I the only one who thinks it’s insane that this man is still alive and we get to hear him discuss some of the greatest films in history, that HE made??

[@steveconn]

The history of crap filmmaking that followed his generation isn't that old.

[@michaelchimenti2847]

@@steveconn so there hasn’t been ONE good director since his classic films came out? Some of that crap you’re talking about are Coppola’s later films haha

[@gavinbrando8255]

According to the actuarial table its not that surprising that he is cognizant and can still talk

[@tommyz9910]

It's like Mozart alive and discussing his works.

[@pyeriotsquad]

He's a paedophile protector.

[@cameronmitchell8180]

GQ gave us an offer we couldn’t refuse

[@henrydiaz5173]

That was perfect man

[@ciscoramon3673]

This comment needs to get to 1K likes

[@MrUndersolo]

KZbin don't surf!

[@marcothommen2484]

Not personal.... just business...

[@4deleDaz33m]

Just when I thought I was out, GQ pulled me back in!!

[@deelak2329]

Pacino's acting in Godfather 2 is impeccable. Coppolla's direct is otherworldly. Fun fact: that brother he was talking about looking up to: Nicholas Cage's dad haha.

[@Ermukanbet]

Omg

[@nattyps3160]

Yes he envied his brother August. Coppola brought fame to so many in his family Nicolas Coppola " cage" & his sister Talia shire who of course was brilliant in rocky after the 2 godfather films.

[@ComedyBros5]

I thought De Niro was the real scene stealer in II. He perfectly captured the essence and mannerisms of Brando.

[@shrutisarangi8387]

Deniro was best in Godfather 2...hence got oscar

[@aryavart296]

​@@shrutisarangi8387fuck no, Pacino owned godfather 2

[@sigmann66]

Coppola was only 29 when he made Godfather. The film is so tasteful and well made, even for any artist regardless of age. True genius.

[@jamiestevenson9876]

He was 33 not 29

[@springchickena1]

any actual major films (intelligent ones) produced by 29 year olds?

[@hippojuice23]

Not just tasteful, but such delicious detail and nuance!

[@KennethEd]

⁠Orson Welles revolutionized conceptual theater on Broadway in his early 20s and directed Citzen Kane when he was 25.

[@At0mS8]

To this day, I still can't understand how Coppola made Apocalypse Now. It's an unbelievably complex masterpiece done under impossible circumstances, it simply can't be done, and yet he did it.

[@commanderkeen3787]

Luck. If it had been made even a few years earlier it would have been shut down or flopped catastrophically, just like other highly ambitious films such as Sorcerer, which came out at a very bad time

[@brandonb.5304]

Kind of destroyed his career, though. The Hearts of Darkness documentary really explains how the production drove him mad and killed any drive he had to make films for a long time. After that, he was never the same. An amazing film that left the director artistically empty.

[@FUYouTubeCensors]

@@brandonb.5304 I'm totally fine with someone losing their career and their mental health, as long as I get a good movie

[@ananthanaarayansathyanaray4348]

@@FUKZbinCensors Ayoooo

[@rigsby1454]

And lost the Oscar to the guy who did Kramer V Kramer!

[@mypal1990]

The voices criticizing during the making of The Godfather were so loud to a struggling director like Coppola. But he silences all the critics and made a legendary movie.

[@Jaydogg222]

Yes, I also watched this entire video too...

[@squamish4244]

@@Jaydogg222 It's just he has pulled this amazing feat twice. Plenty of people were doomsaying about Apolcaypse Now, this time himself the worst. The production issues were beyond insane. Now it is revered.

[@callefalk4457]

SE PÅ DEN D•R jÄYaELaN!!!

[@b_side8669]

Yeah they swam with the fishes 😂

[@cranger4868]

@@squamish4244 ekessekeledeeeeeyeeeeeee I lace

[@timebandit1266]

The “Apocalypse Now” documentary is a game changer. This man is a legend and will be in Hollywood history forever.

[@jackhamilton9604]

it will also be on record forever that he supports pedophiles and will ruin the lives of their victims

[@Pulsonar]

Agree 💯Coppola and Brando were both mad geniuses in their own special way. I guess they complimented each other, to make 2 of the greatest films ever made.

[@askibabini1768]

Hollywood is reductive let's say Cinema history

[@935323]

Hearts of Darkness is as important a film as Apocalypse Now. The same way that Burden of Dreams almost outdoes Fitzcorraldo. The two journeys are both works of genius. Process and product.

[@slamjackson2137]

When recommending Apocalypse Now to someone who’s never seen it, and may not necessarily like war films, I tell them it’s not a war movie. It’s a psychological movie. It’s a philosophical movie. It’s a surrealist Dali painting that just happens to take place in the midst of the Vietnam War. What a wonderful piece of art, hats off to Coppola and the fantastic crew and actors.

[@davidc.2878]

Just tell them "man, it's a trip!" That'll cover everything.

[@Shawnz7]

Sure, but what version do you play for them? lmao. that's the whole question. I've only seen 2 of the 3 plus the documentary side.

[@BookClubDisaster]

It's really a horror movie. Which is why it's so much better than any other war movie.

[@xa25ja]

It’s just Joseph Conrad novel THE HEART OF DARKNESS as a Vietnam War movie.

[@profile2047]

@@xa25jaConrad*

[@brucethomson3242]

He's in his ninth decade and still packs the stamina and energy of a 50 year old. What a legend.

[@grottphd9090]

he's 82

[@onceyougozach2607]

@@grottphd9090 that's his 9th decade

[@grottphd9090]

@@onceyougozach2607 on a technical level maybe. It's just a misleading way of making him sound older than he is

[@onceyougozach2607]

@@grottphd9090 disagreed

[@hasselett]

You could've just said he's in his eighties instead of saying he's "in his ninth decade". Nobody says that.

[@WavvyPrince]

People like Coppola make me look forward to growing old…the man is 82 and still so sharp & lively.

[@kingamoeboid3887]

I watched The Godfather (1972) to celebrate his 80th birthday.

[@steveconn]

Because he lived in an era before they weaponized the flu.

[@godfreydaniel6278]

@@steveconn Seriously? Give it a rest, loser...

[@steveconn]

@@godfreydaniel6278 Sorry, not all of us ADD tech-bros :)

[@h.ar.2937]

@@steveconn You do know life-expectancy on average has been increasing, right?😂😂😂

[@ommm8]

What an artist. Brilliantly honest and articulate, brutally self-critical, willing to put everything he had, including his sanity, on the line for his art. Coppola epitomises everything a truly great filmmaker should be.

[@soloa24]

One thing I learn about these great directors like Coppola, James Cameron is that, they are good at telling their story. You can listen to them for hours.

[@jackhamilton9604]

I could beat Coppola for hours, he’s a disgusting pedophile supporter

[@MichandreVirgin]

Martin Scorsese too

[@jackhamilton9604]

@@MichandreVirgin hey your comment applies to both Solomon's and mine

[@AAWWWWWW]

James Cameron ahahaah

[@dipeshmode]

James Cameron is not a good director. Shouldn’t be in the same sentence as Coppola.

[@averagegoslingenthusiast2033]

This man made 3 of the top 20 films of all time. Absolutely insane

[@RafaelSantos-bt2hv]

Godfather I & II, what’s the 3? Apocalypse Now? (genuinely wondering)

[@argelisplanchart9438]

@@RafaelSantos-bt2hv yep

[@NotSoRandom_]

Potentially 4 if u count The Conversation

[@matheuslopesgarcia4616]

@@NotSoRandom_ he didn't make the french connection, that was William Friedkin

[@kawaiiafangirl]

@@NotSoRandom_ You're probably thinking of The Conversation. Different Gene Hackman movie. Lol.

[@sleepindragon179]

A real living legend. The man has made some of the best films ever.

[@steelcity9517]

he also made Nic Cage. xD

[@ClayproducerLeo]

yes

[@lilyluzon9964]

Who the H*LL are the two dummies that gave two thumbs down?

[@Thespeedrap]

@@steelcity9517 he's just his nephew but the whole family has good talent behind the camera rather than in front of it.

[@waynej2608]

He is my generation's, Orson Welles. Only, with greater commercial success.

[@natesmith3949]

His version of Dracula is criminally underrated. It would have been interesting to hear his take on it.

[@amstaylorph]

Oh yeah. I forgot about that . I loved it too.

[@zacharygreen6267]

I came here for this, and was really dissapointed it wasnt included

[@fernandohinojosa3211]

All the scenes inside dracula's castle are the best gothic horror ever filmed.

[@Hysteria98]

James Rolfe did a fantastic video essay going over EVERY Dracula TV and film adaptation, and Coppola's was actually the most faithful by far to Bram Stoker's words.

[@Shaffer0608]

@@Hysteria98yes AVGN is very knowledgeable with film!

[@andrewmilesbroughton8222]

Apocalypse Now changed my life, I'm a filmmaker now because of that film. Favourite cinematography, score, set pieces, credit scene top and tail, dialogue. I fell in love back in 1979 and I'm still in love!! regards Mr Coppola.

[@angelotrinidad6888]

Would you add heavy metal to your motion picture?

[@macrofuture]

Masterful pieces, beyond iconic, and worth multiple viewings. Ultimately it can’t be put in the greatest movies of all time because of the poor ending…

[@PolishGod1234]

​@@macrofuturethe ending was Perfect, not poor

[@macrofuture]

@@PolishGod1234 Marlon Brando’s performance was only so so. I was expecting so much more.

[@SleepFan771]

The Godfather, The Godfather Part II, Apocalypse Now, The Outsiders, & The Conversation are all must see cinematic masterpieces. To think, Francis Ford Coppola also wrote Patton. A true directing legend!

[@4deleDaz33m]

To think he made two masterpieces in one year, both of them were nominated for Best Picture Oscar in the same year with one of them winning, it's crazy how he can accomplish something like that

[@niceteal]

i love you lorde

[@captain007x]

Mario Puzzo wrote the Godfather.

[@65g4]

@i am the one don't weigh a ton don't need a gun i would

[@65g4]

@i am the one don't weigh a ton don't need a gun yeah but thats not fair its like comparing any of todays Oscar films to Citizen Kane. Of course its not as good but i think The Outsiders is still a great film.

[@StorytellerStudios]

Every time I watch an interview with Mr. Coppola I see an extremely sincere person. He doesn't act like a Hollywood heavyweight.

[@NeverSaySandwich1]

He has a ton of wisdom on the industry

[@andrewhudson7108]

There’s a few legendary directors like Hitchcock and Kubrick who almost seem to pride themselves in interviews on talking about the cast and crew as if they’re nothing more than props to be used for their own vision. But Coppola talks about his collaborators with such love and respect.

[@bargepoled]

He was completely anti Hollywood studios. American zoetrope was about buckling the Hollywood system. He successfully did that.

[@davidlynch9049]

@@andrewhudson7108 Kubrick was not one of them. His anger and cruelty towards his actors were legendary.

[@leonardodalongisland]

He's not a "Hollywood" anything. He's never been part of that group. He's always been an outsider( :), and independent filmmaker/artist.

[@danielhatlang4206]

His underrated movies like The Outsiders (1983) and The Rainmaker (1997) are some of my favourites.

[@writerkhan8111]

Just watched Godfather in the theater and my God were people in awe in the story and screenplay. A 3 hour masterpiece.

[@nosuchthing8]

I wish I could see godfather in the theater again.

[@ComedyBros5]

@@nosuchthing8 I wish I could just see the Godfather when it was first released in theater, but I wasn't even born til 25yrs after the movie came out. lol

[@haro82]

Yes, these days it's rare to see anything that features actual great acting. Oppenheimer is one of a very rare few I can think of.

[@angelcastaneda529]

The man wrote the screenplay for Patton, it’s still unbelievable what a decade he had in the 1970s. The Conversation is so good. Released in the same year as Godfather Part II.

[@steveconn]

My folks met in the Jack Tarr building where the murder occurs.

[@smoketj4830]

he didnt have a hit after the 70s but he did more than enough made literally the 2 best films ever another top 10 ever, and a couple more.

[@jaydunedin2930]

In between Godfathers he also squeezed in producing American Graffiti. Lucas has said the only reason that movie ever got to see the light of day was because FFC, red hot at the time, attached himself to it.

[@angelcastaneda529]

@@jaydunedin2930, I wanted to mention that, but I forget about that in writing.

[@leonardodalongisland]

WHEN HE WAS IN HIS 20'S!!!!!

[@doublep1980]

The fact that Coppola not only managed to finish Apocalypse Now, but it turned out to become such a classic movie, despite all the crazy BS that occurred during the production, is absolutely astonishing. For those who are not aware, I highly recommend the documentary by his wife.

[@jackhamilton9604]

It's also astonishing that not many people know how much he supports pedophile Victor Salva

[@nostromoinspace]

i could listen to francis talk for hours about all his films

[@Crimson28]

The Rainmaker is an underrated favorite of mine. I can watch it and read it over and over and never get tired of it.

[@histubeness]

His first film Dementia 13 (1963) is also underrated IMO. Just a so-so script, but his direction (when he was about 23) clearly shows the talent emerging. It's worth checking out.

[@528491Inception]

By the way, that 'young director' he had in mind to direct the Godfather part 2, was none other than Martin Scorsese.

[@joestimemachine6454]

I remember him saying that on the DVD commentary. Scorsese is brilliant but it just wouldn't be the same without Coppola.

[@eargasm1072]

Coppola, Lucas & Scorsese...three amigos and triple threats in filmmaking!

[@EricHamm]

@@eargasm1072 Nah bruh, Lucas turned into a trash writer and arugably never made a good movies past the 90s. Editors saved the 1st Star Wars. You seen Red Tails? People on the caliber of FCC don't make trash like that.

[@_AZBT_ASHUTOSHKUSHWAHA-vm3fh]

@@joestimemachine6454 but I guess freeze frame , less female characters, explicit language might not have suited the sequel , it just perfect director by francis

[@rakhibisht9324]

@@EricHamm I know the prequel triology made fans hate him just like you are one of them

[@keefriff99]

Wow, what a memory he has. He’s VERY sharp for 82…that’s great to see.

[@lexkanyima2195]

He is healthy

[@jackhamilton9604]

It's not great that he ruined the life of Victor Salva's victim and continues to support Salva

[@crazylizard1889]

7:42 Every fan loves it when young actors reference their films. When older actors and directors do it, it's legendary.

[@kuzimoto1973]

His English is the best I have ever heard, every single word is clear and loud! Speaks for his nature.

[@sangeovr]

One of the best directors in history of cinema

[@rhiannamutyaba6461]

The Godfather 1 and 2 and Apocalypse Now are amazing but The Conversation holds a special place for me,especially the iconic film score and the amazing ending and twist.

[@Dacre1000]

Right there with you.

[@skylinerunner1695]

Agree 100 percent

[@verbplural5631]

Yep absolutely

[@rhiannamutyaba6461]

@gingersnap george facts

[@monotech20.14]

I happen to like Godfather Part 3. I get what people don't like about the movie like "I got to get my lucky coat" but still.

[@Meesterlijker]

The Conversation is so, so underrated. A masterpiece. Even if that'd be his only film, this man would be a legend. But then he's also made Apocalypse Now and the Godfather films.

[@4deleDaz33m]

Imagine had to pick Godfather Part II or The Conversation for Best Picture since both masterpieces were nominated in the same year. It's a coin toss definitely for the voters

[@mastervoz]

underrated?? It won the Palme d Or at cannes and 3 academy award nominations!! Ebert gave it 4 out of 4 stars....how is that underrated?

[@benyaminpourmohamad4370]

As an Iranian it was so surprising that Cappola has been so interested in the most iconic book and mythology of the Persian culture Shahnameh. Shahnameh means the book of Shahs (kings). He is right about the father’s treason in some extent. Rostam in Shahnameh is the greatest hero and true man but killed his son Sohrab without knowing that he was his own son. This story is one of the saddest and best tragedies in the history of mankind and perfectly presented by Ferdowsi the great. knowing that Shahnameh was so inspiring for making the Godfather is mind blowing and a clue to me for explaining the foundations of the Godfather movies.

[@basedincali8707]

cope

[@rivereuphrates8103]

@@basedincali8707 why?

[@Jaywalker45]

So ?????

[@edwarddavison320]

What you're describing sounds a lot like Oedipus, but I wish you'd expand on how the story you referenced influenced Coppola and The Godfather.

[@edwarddavison320]

Nevermind. I saw the rest of the video. Thanks.

[@seancorrigan7448]

"The Conversation" and "Bram Stoker's Dracula" are incredible.

[@geoguy333]

Thank you to the staff at GQ for putting this together - it’s incredible

[@joyj1219]

So appreciate all that Coppola went through to get The Godfather made. Thank you Francis for your tenacity, resilience and genius.

[@jackhamilton9604]

I threw that appreciation not of a window, but into a black hole after finding out the lengths he went to support Victor Salva

[@silentreactor97]

Apocalypse Now is one kind of an experience! This movie took me on a breathtaking and surreal journey!

[@natea2247]

Michael's silent scream in Godfather Coda is amazing. It is one of the best scenes in the whole trilogy.

[@Paddythefriendlykiwi]

The worst of the trilogy for sure, but my god, being a father now, I understand that scene more than ever. Indescribable and very tangible pain.

[@i_georgiequest_i4160]

Watching directors break down there thought process is so entertaining and so educational I love it

[@MrAitraining]

Francis's audio commentary over the godfather films is incredible to listen to. So entertaining and educational

[@2340Vegas]

I'm glad that Francis Coppola always seems to mention Al Lettieri in his list of important actors in The Godfather movie. It was an under acknowledged performance.

[@stellapatchouli2730]

The best movie I have seen in the 21st century is this 28-minute video of Francis Ford Coppola telling us his story! I remember...1970s, maybe 73(?) Cannes film festival, at the Carlton hotel, going downstairs at the terrace to have dinner with a friend, and Coppola walked in, took a look at me, and froze! He just stood there for about a minute or two, staring at me. I dunno what he saw in me since I'm not an actress. I can't memorize my own name, much less scripted lines! Maybe that's why all these Oscar winning directors remained my friends! I never bothered them for a role in their movies! Back to Coppola-yes, we never got introduced. Just a long stare. And that was that. The unforgettable genius, Francis Ford Coppola! 🥰🍿

[@osvaldosandovallazcano898]

The Godfather it's not just a film. It was a cultural event that bring us personalities to remeber forever. Pacino, Brando, Duvall, De Niro, Keaton, Cazale, the author Mario Puzo and of course, Coppola himself. To think that they build this and we can't imagine the cinema industry without this films gives me some kind of magical thinking that everything was set in the right moment and the right place to just happened.

[@JamesonWilde]

Godfather didn't give us Brando. He was already an established legend by the time it was filmed.

[@effortlessGFX]

Always someone in the comments being pedantic.

[@leonardodalongisland]

Try imaging what the world would be like without Elvis, the Beatles, plastic or electricity-that's what it would be like without The Godfather and Pt 2. PS, the only role I like Keaton in, is The Godfather.

[@angelmartinez7607]

@@effortlessGFX 🤣🤣🤣

[@4deleDaz33m]

@@JamesonWilde I think it meant by Godfather brought Brando back to the spotlight he truly deserves. Before Godfather, his career went downhill, he faced nurmeous flops which was the main reason why Paramount didn't want Brando to be Vito. But Godfather came out and successfully put Brando's career back on track

[@Cinematicnorance]

I'm so glad he talked about The Conversation. It's a very underrated film. Packed with amazing performances and incredible story but with a simple idea.

[@MichTheo]

My feelings exactly!

[@jaydamalley3398]

Definitely not underrated. Simply not as well known, or rather underexposed, compared to The Godfather and Apocalypse Now.

[@martitinkovich4489]

Just packed w/ them! Name one.

[@4deleDaz33m]

@@jaydamalley3398 The Conversation came out at the same year of Godfather Part 2, both movies were nominated for Best Picture at the same year. I guess people don't talk much about Conversation because Godfather Part 2 overshadowed that movie especially the year when both movies were nominated for Best Picture, still adore both movies anyways

[@brucekuehn4031]

The scope is not like Godfather Part II but The Conversation packs a punch. It really knocked me out! There’s a focus and intensity that are like a magnifying glass burning a hole, starting a fire. GFII is more like a kaleidoscope. I loved both and completely different film experiences. And to think they came out the same year!

[@camerafx24]

I worked with Francis on his final film 8 months ago. He was just as he is here interesting and friendly. A true master Ang gentleman.

[@artug92]

Francis Ford Coppola shows us how to be a HUGE success while being humble. Great man, great artist, great director!

[@fefferryerr1818]

A great man? Look up his involvement with Victor Salva.

[@artug92]

@@fefferryerr1818 why don't you enlighten us with your limited and skewed knowledge. I'll be waiting

[@fefferryerr1818]

@@artug92 Go look it up, he paid the court fees for a convicted child molester, Salva the director, and then forced the victim to keep working on Salva's film.

[@artug92]

@@fefferryerr1818 I don't have to look up anything, it's your claim.. prove it... Send me one credible source that says what you're claiming. I'll be waiting.

[@jackhamilton9604]

@@artug92 here’s a credible source, go to the 26 or 27 minute mark kzbin.info/www/bejne/nmXVeHeQls6Gj7s

[@56jsking]

Bram stoker's dracula is another all time favorite of mine.

[@joshuayeager3686]

I was hoping there was going to be discussion on it.

[@jj-if6it]

@@joshuayeager3686 very underrated

[@nosuchthing8]

Yes, the endless parade of emotions on Minas face as she talks to Dracula in the streets of London are amazing.

[@Chatterbox-94]

Coppola is a true master of cinema. His style of directing and the way he works with cinematic lighting is truly incredible and has inspired many other filmmakers.

[@reinforcedpenisstem]

Very generic comment.

[@davidc.2878]

There should have been a nod here to the Outsiders, which while not as legendary as the films discussed, was a significant achievement and a launching pad for a number of major stars. I'm sure none of us would have minded a longer segment.

[@ComedyBros5]

Absolutely. I actually had no idea he directed that one til you mentioned it. It's so small scaled compared to his other productions that I just didn't expect him to have made it, but it makes sense now with how much I love it!

[@djaceofpentacles]

Was that a Coppola? I'm a novice cinephile but never knew that. Best casting ever

[@davidc.2878]

@@djaceofpentacles Yes, he was the director.

[@rayvega3163]

​@@djaceofpentacles Great movie and great book, even with changes.

[@guyangelo9875]

@@djaceofpentacles You Keep Forgettin'?

[@VtRD]

This week Francis finally got his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Great interview, GQ--thank you.

[@khalilahd.]

The Godfather and the outsiders will always be some of my favorite films ❤️

[@7two7entertainment90]

What a legend! He is among few geniuses that are a definition of filmmaking as we know it now. Such a shame that kids these days are less informed on such iconic influential people like F.F. Coppola

[@chrishernandez3699]

I put my family on to The Godfather and they love it! Always a good feeling to recommend classics to someone who hasn't seen them yet

[@debraflorez2265]

Except for his daughter. Who makes the films she cares about.

[@EricHamm]

Kids? You mean movie plebs. Anyone who loves movies at some point is going to hit the IMDB top 100 movies of all time. You are sorely mistaken to think FFC is still not idolized by future filmmakers.

[@EricHamm]

@@debraflorez2265 She has made some hot trash. Some if it is okay if that style is your jam, she has made a few real stinkers. Also there is a 3rd one who is not looking good either.

[@leonardodalongisland]

You hit it on the head. They have to use their phones to even know "what" The Godfather was...and then they'd say, "Ah it was made before I was born. It's just some old movie."

[@sidrodriguez5410]

Coppola is a joy to watch detailing his making of The Godfather. He is way too modest of his brilliant screenplay (with Puzo) and his sweat and tears making it. To realize he made this masterpiece at 30 is just mind-boggling. He's at the top of filmmakers in my list.

[@leonardodalongisland]

Started in his late 20's. Wrote Patton at age 24!

[@jackhamilton9604]

It would also be a joy to watch him in pain due to him not only supporting Victor Salva, but also ruining the life of Salva's victim

[@Tessou]

He certainly took great care not to mention Peter Zinner and Robert Evans editing his “final cut” of the Godfather into something watchable. The film missed its Christmas release date for good reason.

[@kamalindsey]

The fact he was only 29 when he made The Godfather... Wow!

[@andreasborupjensen2368]

I love how he said that they made him an offer he couldn’t refuse in a straight face

[@arpitdas4263]

The Godfather of Cinema himself. Thank you so much Francis for everything

[@jackhamilton9604]

I wouldn't be surprised if he was the Godfather of Pedophiles given his support of Victor Salva

[@clanwaddell5628]

I love his passion and honesty. His commentary and thoughts make me smile

[@nayaflores5803]

What an awesome dude. I think him reiterating that he really didn't know what to do, or what he was doing most of the time, alongside how many of his ideas were told to be scrapped or bad is very reassuring to those who want to make things of their own. You learn what you're doing as you take the risk of actually doing it.

[@ronti2492]

Amazing interview with Mr Coppola, I assume somewhere in his CA winery! Thanks GQ for an outstanding set of interviews. Absolutely the Godfather is a classic, as is Apocalypse Now.

[@palimelodies793]

When GQ offered me to watch this video, I was going to decline their offer. But today, my daughter is getting married. I cannot decline offers today.

[@saritames1774]

Godfather 3 too was great... Andy Garcia was simply great...!! The conclusion was so touching... It beautifully connects the conclusion of the previous Godfather movies.. The way Al Pacino collapses, all alone, limp, and one puppy scampers by and runs away....! God, can anything be more profound and heart wrenching..??!

[@dc6461]

After Mary was shot Coppola showed you why Michael never got a happy ending with Kay, a woman that was his dream..... he betrayed her, he killed her child and she was gone. His sins are beyond redemption.

[@xrrrismickey]

It was a solid C. At best.

[@sachinpersauds3339]

Love 3 also, it shows how his sins come back to haunt him

[@ashyoshicharizard3949]

Better than 2

[@dannaccarato1125]

Whenever Francis Ford Coppola speaks, wise humans listen. The most memorable movie experience ever: Watching The Godfather trilogy three afternoons at Palazzo Margherita in Bernalda, Italy. Era il paradiso in terra.

[@BennyGreenheart]

Wow this is the greatest content GQ has ever posted. Loved his commentary on his classics.

[@filmmaker610]

I just watched a 50th Anniversary screening of The Godfather in Mumbai. What a movie! Still so iconic and incredible masterwork of cinema storytelling.

[@chetanyasharma2502]

It was re released in India too??

[@filmmaker610]

@@chetanyasharma2502 Yes it has rereleased in India. It’s playing till Thursday.

[@marioandwes]

Did they subtitle the Italian parts in English?

[@filmmaker610]

@@marioandwes Yes, all Italian parts had subtitles except for the restaurant scene which is intentionally left out.

[@Ice-fg9jc]

I'm so glad you liked the movie

[@davidh.8798]

82 years of age, and not a marble lost. Every single one of them clearly intact.

[@twinpalmsentertainment949]

I think this is one of the best opportunities of my life as a film student, film maker and lover of film. I am so grateful to be hearing and watch FFC speak about his iconic films and film in general through his perspective.

[@thiagoteixeira6537]

This man is 82 and he's still directing movies! I'm super excited for his new movie! Hopefully we won't have to wait too long for it!

[@jackhamilton9604]

Hopefully it will be cancelled. Look up what he says about Victor Salva

[@NothingMaster]

Coppola has always been a most captivating storyteller. I could literally listen to him telling these stories for hours on end. You could see a 3-D scene emerging in his oratory depictions. It’s as if he’s self-directing a motion picture, even when he’s simply talking.

[@chrishernandez3699]

Hopefully you check out and support his upcoming movie megalopolis when it's released

[@goldcanyon340.]

Watching Francis share his story in a setting like this was a real joy. Thanks!

[@meditationmountainbyrishab919]

One of the all time greats of Cinema, a master filmmaker, deeply sincere, brave and super talented, rare combination!

[@thedylanconen]

I have nothing but respect for this legend.

[@jackhamilton9604]

I have nothing but contempt for this shitbag considering the lengths he went to support Victor Salva

[@kaspinet]

This is a master class that needs a part 2 to cover the missed films.

[@michaellarsen2187]

Would have love to hear something about Dracula.

[@johnb4467]

@@michaellarsen2187 Me too, the style of that movie -- including him insisting it be done in the 'old' style of Special Effects -- really makes it stand out. There's some great and lengthy 'making-ofs' on the blu ray and dvd releases, but sometimes it's wonderful to hear them talk about their works much later on in life, like he is now with this video.

[@nosuchthing8]

Yes, Dracula might not have had the gravitas of his other works, but it's still an amazing movie

[@imnjs]

Just got finished watching The Godfather I & 2 for the umpteenth time and I’m always just so blown away. The acting, music, and atmosphere is just perfection. And to think this was so close to being a disaster. Much respect Mr. Coppola, you are a legend.

[@eddiereece5050]

This is so wonderful, but my mind keeps going to how even though that's a comfortable looking chair. He is SO UNCOMFORTABLE IN IT. ha. This interview is pure gold. Thanks to GQ.

[@aiyachristian]

Mr. Coppola. The man who discovered Al Pacino and gave him the role that would sky rocket him into stardom

[@jackhamilton9604]

Mr. Coppola. The man who discovered Victor Salva and gave him the platform that would allow him to get away with molesting a 12 year old. Coppola also ruined that 12 year old's life

[@conorbrierley1]

Francis is a legend, shame he did not mention working with Gary Oldman on Dracula or Robin Williams in Jack , Godfather 1 and 2 are still the best movies ever made! Thanks Francis

[@stevemuzak8526]

Gary Oldman gets really upset on set. It was a difficult film for him. But it's still one the best vampire movies ever made.

[@kitpalmer1583]

@@stevemuzak8526 that Oldman thing gets so overblown, if you watch the footage it's barely even a disagreement lol

[@jackhamilton9604]

I think it's a shame he didn't mention his friendship with Victor Salva, the pedophile who Coppola continues to support and also ruined the life of Salva's victim. To quote Coppola "You have to remember, while this was a tragedy, that the difference in age between Victor and the boy was very small -- Victor was practically a child himself.”

[@justawhiteguy4706]

Its a shame noone mentions Victor Salva molesting kids and Francis paying the legal fees and then suing the abused child and his family for breach of contract, such a legend

[@YorgosL1]

Jack is a great film !

[@FutureExitsMedia]

Went to see The Godfather last week for the anniversary and it has not diminished with age at all. An utter masterpiece.

[@RajBeats]

This is a treat. Please don't stop making these GQ!!

[@mreeping]

Leonard Nimoy said the same thing Francis does which is to "surround yourself around very talented people". Absolutely absolutely absolutely.

[@buffythehaterslayer6918]

That's what that scumbag De Niro does. He surrounds himself with people that are more talented than him. No one ever pays attention to De Niro unless it's a Scorsese movie and even then Pesci is acting circles around that douche.

[@jackhamilton9604]

Francis also surrounds himself around horrible people like Victor Salva

[@tapset]

@@jackhamilton9604 finally somebody says it

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

The secret of syccess. Hire people smarter than yourself.

[@BooneLuleyo]

Thank you GQ for this. Coppola is a living legend. One of my favorite movies of him when i was a kid was “Jack“ with Robin Williams. It’s still a delighful surprise than the guy behind The Goldfather is also the game guy behind than little Disney’s movie.

[@portugal5698]

What really made The Godfather so well was Tony Columbo’s vibe and contribution as he got real life mobsters and mob influenced actors (Brasi and Sollozo) involved in the project with close supervision. Sollozo’s actor, Al Lettieri also had the cast over his brother in law, Don Eboli of the Genovese family’s house in Fort Lee, NJ on multiple locasions. This would help Brando develop the Don Corleone character as well as teaching Sonny the slang and mannerisms and Pacino the Italian for the restaurant shooting scenes.

[@ReportersRDC]

Feel humbled and grateful to watch this amazing interview. Thanks M. Coppola. What if “Apocalyps Now” was made in Congo, where the Conrad novel was based ? We will never know.

[@vincentsmith7428]

Do this for Scorsese, Spielberg, Tarantino and the others

[@4deleDaz33m]

Man, if it's Scorsese, 30 minutes won't be enough for him. Needed an hour to do a breakdown cuz he made so many iconic movies a lot more than Coppola and i still adore both of them

[@sting6ph]

tarantino would take all day if you let him talk about his movies 😄

[@lexkanyima2195]

@@4deleDaz33m 4 hours to talk about it

[@Thespeedrap]

Scorsese and Spielberg definitely.Tarantino I'll wait😄

[@jackhamilton9604]

two of which are also pedo supporters

[@seancorrigan7448]

Thank you for this. It's great to hear his thoughts again after all this time. What an icon!

[@jackhamilton9604]

you should hear his thoughts on Pedo Victor Salva

[@nheimi99]

What incredible insight. Truly an enigmatic and fascinating man. We are so lucky to be in the universe where Coppola’s stars aligned to be such a potent artist.

[@dana.j9062]

Francis Coppola is a Living Legend and an amazing story teller through most of His masterpieces!! 💚🤍❤️

[@LeBeautiful]

GQ doing some beautiful things with this. Salute.

[@DopaDopamin]

Salute to Junior.

[@Lemonn1016]

We meet again

[@aidanmca4177]

I used to see ur comments on yt vids all the time but I haven’t for ages, did u used to comment on kendrick, MF DOOM etc vids?

[@carlocalderon3659]

THE MAN THE MYTH THE LEGEND! Please do more directors!

[@bestfoodreviews2770]

just watched apocalypse now a couple of days ago, and listening to him talk about how difficult it was to shoot makes me that much more impressed with how fantastic it was

[@bapples]

Check out the making of documentary. Hearts of Darkness. It’s intense.

[@mortalclown3812]

So many brilliant actors, best crews. Could listen for hours. Rest in paradise, Frederic Forrest. ✨

[@CJayin]

His daughter’s movie Lost in Translation may be one of the greatest romance movies ever. I’m so excited for Megalopolis

[@tommyt1971]

Everyone here needs to listen to Coppola’s commentaries on the DVDs of the Godfather series and Apoc Now - he has incredible stories to tell and amazing insight. They’re never boring thru the lengths of those films.

[@jackhamilton9604]

Everyone here also needs to know about his relationship with Victor Salva

[@hyperman1010]

it's wonderful to see how down to earth and humble he is. he produced during his period some of the best loved and most astounding films. he sat on pacino, who gave one of his most brilliant characterizations. also the young de niro, or even keaton. the most heartbreaking part of godfather part 2 is the loss of brando, who creates a character of great warmth, considering who he really is, and is the conterpoint to the horror story his son becomes. as for the conversation, a double nomination that year of part 2, and hackman playing one of the most unpleasant characters of his life! not only a great actor's director, but film director as well!!!!

[@ramseypietronasser2]

Love how humble he is

[@HorrorCritical]

0:00 he’s right about the fact that movies that are considered art don’t have a “safety net” with it. Films that take risks are usually the ones that are considered one of the best films of all time(Apocalypse Now for example)

[@MamadNobari]

Yeah, but they usually don't make money for the studio lol.

[@HorrorCritical]

@@MamadNobari Id rather watch movies that take risks and bomb at the box office than movies that are “safe” and make tones of money

[@TimelesslyModern]

This man is an absolute legend and the ultimate artist.

[@matthewrichardson8162]

Had the privilege of seeing The Godfather at AMC last night and Part 2 back in 2019. Such an experience.

[@MegaFREAK313]

Absolute genius, I was never a big fan of movies until I saw The Godfather I and II for the first time and at that moment my passion for movies was born. A Roman epic set in modern New York is simply put a recipe for a potential masterpiece

[@argelisplanchart9438]

An absolute legend. This video is gold.

[@jdaddyaz]

What an absolutely fascinating and engaging experience. Thank you so much for this GQ. How fortunate are we for this?

[@jackhamilton9604]

"What an absolutely fascinating and engaging experience." Is the opposite to what he put the victim of Victor Salva through

[@puffyshirt681]

Thanks to all involved for doing this. An absolute privilege to watch this.

[@ericday4505]

Godfather, Godfather 2 and Apocalypse Now, Francis was at a zenith that no other director has reached before or since, and I am obviously just a fan, btw that famous scene in Godfather where Brando is talking to Pacino, near the end where we learn that Mike is going to get betrayed, to me was the best scene in either movie. Great stuff, great movie , great director, Coppala.