'The Godfather 2' Ending Scene

[@agenttheater5]

One of the reasons why Sonny beat up Carlo so badly...he felt guilty because he introduced them.

[@nangkiewrodshong6146]

damn never saw it from that angle....thats good story telling and attention to detail

[@hafeeez87]

if I was Sunny, I'd kill him the first chance I get after knowing he beat his wife

[@berk8721]

i was trying to find this comment...

[@Seek1878]

He was a good big brother.

[@TheAlexmercer360batmanfan]

@@hafeeez87 its not that easy bro. You can beat his ass up to a pulp but you would never want to kill him. Which is why make sure to get your sister married to a good person. Money or fame is far less important than the personality.

[@franciscondon1902]

Fredo being the only one who appreciated Michael's decision is what makes this scene so heartbreaking.

[@theghustler]

True and it was Mike that had him killed right, damnnnn now that I think about it, it's very sad

[@humbertoflores2545]

Yes, but Fredo after all, betrayed Michael.. and that is a big difference

[@franciscondon1902]

@@humbertoflores2545 Not intentionally.

[@uv77mc85]

@@garygravy6089 Fredo was a fkup. He was not up to the type of life they were leading. Michael shouldn't have killed him

[@OO-jd4yc]

Nah, fredo was an ass kisser and coward, he wasn't really happy for him. He just feels the need to want to be liked by everyone cause he seeks himself weak, so he goes out of his way to try to please people. If he really was in support of Michael he won't have gone silent as soon as Santino pulled his hand out of the handshake. He'd have put up some kind of arguement.

[@Maarttiin]

James Caan, what a beast at acting. He went from full rage to being visibly concerned about his brother's life. What a performance.

[@drlee2]

Agreed. He was also great in Thief and Misery. Hot take, but he was just as good as Kathy Bates in that film.

[@Boygonebad]

@@drlee2 if you take him out of Misery the movie doesn’t work at all. He was also great in Alien Nation

[@ajlomax603]

Agreed. A brilliant performance

[@lydiaboll2872]

He was great in Elf, too.

[@gamergirl2236]

He will be missed.

[@horseradish4046]

"daddy's fighting again!" lmao such a casual way to show what a hothead Sonny always was

[@ladawngregory5980]

Et

[@MaderRodriguez]

lol

[@a.u.j6340]

That's what got him killed. Lol

[@dbt7624]

@@a.u.j6340well technically it was that other mob boss guy who got him killed because of the whole solazo thing

[@balabanasireti]

​@@dbt7624 Yeah, but Sonny was so hotheaded that he got baited and didn't wait for his bodyguards to go with him

[@andydoufreisn2973]

Ending shot is so haunting. An emperor, sitting on top of his Empire, all alone.

[@CarlosOliveira-jp3yx]

I love that in the very first scenes we see Michael surrounded by his men, and the empty chair that once was Vito's, and in the very end we see Michael seated in a chair, surrounded by emptiness

[@justamanofculture12]

Yup 😭

[@bigkev3859]

Perfect

[@theendison5423]

Ur comment made me immotional bro ,this scene and Ur comment made me to cry, lov u bro

[@SidJustice1]

I love it.

[@BloodMilkSky1969]

My fav scene of any movie was that last scene.Micheal in his own empire,sad,guilt stricken,and all alone without his family or anyone.Total opposite of Vito.Very tragic Shakespearean ending.

[@rewster7]

absolutely.

[@cw3le]

Well, it's not like he wanted it to be like that. Remember, his own brother backstabbed him and Michael almost died because of that. And his wife had an abortion without first consulting with him. What kind of family is that? Not to mention Carlo from the first movie who tortured his sister and few of family close friends who also backstabbed him. Michael did the best he could to save his family and his empire, but there are some things over which you just cannot get over.

[@BloodMilkSky1969]

True...BUT,I'm doubting the Don Vito would've acted in this manner.

[@johannapapatheodorou6701]

G. Christopher No,you're right,Vito would have handled this differently,but Michael is NOT his father.Vito was raised in a totally different enviroment and had different experiences in his life,just as Michael had his own.This scene reminds us that Michael initially aimed for a more normal life,and it also indicates that after commiting so many crimes,he has lost himself and that he must pay the price of loneliness. But I believe,that even though Michael is not like Vito,he is the next more suitable person for handling this family business(after Vito i mean). Sonny was too hot tempered and Fredo was weak-witted,but Michael was strong and confident,desicive and a leader,like his father.

[@paprskomet]

Johanna Papatheodorou Yes-it is absolutely no doubt that it was during "reign" of Michael that "family"Empire of the Corleons saw its high point but at the same time that real family started to fall apart with Michael being in charge.Surely this was not only his fault as was already rightly stated it had far more complex reasons but there is also no doubt that from all of Corleone clan bosses Michael was the most cruel and ruthless although more suitable for the role than rest of his brothers.I love those contrasting storylines of young Vito rising in optimistic mode both his Empire as well as his family and that of his youngest son Michael which develops in completely opposite way-at least if we talk about his family life.

[@highwind1991]

I'm one of those people that consider godfather part I and II to be one complete film. Mainly because I think this final scene is the prefect ending to this story

[@Emp6ft10in]

I agree. This is one of those rare cases where a sequel added to the original film rather than diminished it.

[@MrMexijorge]

Well both movies are an adaptation of the same book, i think that's why it is like it is.

[@dbfrochester8993]

I argue with one of my best friends all the time that II is better than I

[@beejayjohnson1304]

DBF Rochester yea cuz we got the platform of vito #MyGuy

[@skinnyclemenza]

Adriano Vazquez HBO did that special last year, where they played I and II chronologically as a complete movie.

[@airtec87]

The fact that Marlon Brando refused to act for this scene made character Vito Corleone feel enigmatic. Very powerful scene.

[@SoftTangerineDreams]

Man, I love Vito and Brando, but this scene is much more powerful without him in it. Keeps him shrouded in mystery.

[@57highland]

​@@SoftTangerineDreamsAbsolutely. This scene is all about "Pop", even without his being there. Connie rushing back in and saying "He's here!" and then the sound of the door opening and everyone shouting "Surprise!" was all that was needed. It was perfect.

[@cha5]

And Michael being alone in that dining room and ending with him alone on that bench in front of Lake Tahoe reflecting on his past with dead friends and family members that have led up to this point in his life.

[@LORDSPOOKY]

I’m pretty sure Brando was a lazy fuck and wanted to get paid more than everyone else

[@maosama3695]

I heard he did that cause its a better chance to show case the young actors. If he was there all focus would be on him.

[@carayverson]

I just noticed how in the final flashback, young Michael is waving goodbye to the older Michael as it fades in. Such a brilliant and sad film.

[@sam8793d]

SAME. Ridiculous.

[@sohype6827]

Wasn’t that santino?

[@slicecuts21]

I don't think so. Earlier in the film, Vito held a baby and said "Michael, your father loves you very much". There were at least 2 other kids already walking when hes with his family after killing Fanucci. Could be wrong but I think Buster is right.

[@NinjaBuddha503]

@@sohype6827 the time they rode the train that we saw in the movie was in Italy before and after he avenged his family in Sicily. I think they even have De Niro say a line. But wow, what a catch by Buster.

[@AquaLangistify]

Wow

[@tbk29]

the sad part is Fredo is the only one who support Michael.

[@josephscaduto9971]

He broke his heart.

[@Ultradude604]

didn't mean to do that

[@StarfieldRailway]

Fredo turned on Michael and tried to have him killed.

[@m.shadows8123]

Hooptie Hamburger actually he didn't know that they gone kill him, so fredo don't try kill michael

[@StarfieldRailway]

johtaja itse, that is what Fredo claimed, but he was lying. Michael knew somebody in the family was in on the hit attempt, partly because somebody on the inside left the curtains open. Fredo admitted that he knew Hyman Roth was behind the Senate investigation, which was aimed at putting Michael in prison for life. That alone shows where Fredo's heart really was. Fredo also revealed that he deeply resented Michael and that Fredo wanted to be the don so bad he couldn't stand it. Fredo wanted Michael out of the way so he could be the don. That made Fredo a continuing threat, and that is why Michael had Fredo killed.

[@montyzooma]

James Caan only has like three minutes in Godfather 2, but he makes them count.

[@hugodrax71]

"Go show Carlo the tree" 😂

[@TheImaginator972]

Yeah, it were great how James Caan did a badass job playing Sonny.

[@1987AnimeBoy]

He even demanded to be paid the same salary he got in the first film, and received it.

[@paopis]

@@1987AnimeBoyHe deserved every single penny

[@c.l.taylor8760]

That is what a great actor does with whatever his role is on the page… The ability to steal a scene no matter what the material is, is the definition of a true thespian!

[@nicky29031977]

"No greater sorrow than to recall happiness in times of misery". Classic Dante proverb which is so adequate for this scene.

[@GREGWATSON-lc8cc]

Amen

[@GREGWATSON-lc8cc]

Been there too

[@GREGWATSON-lc8cc]

3 traitors in scene

[@Tony63909]

James Caan was born to play the role of Sonny.

[@TheGodYouWishYouKnew]

+Tony63909 He was great but didn't look Italian.

[@Tony63909]

+TheGodYouWishYouKnew You make an interesting point, but the movie made no reference to genetics except for Tom Hagen which the movie clearly explained. Though you might be right, The viewer does not have an idea about the ancestor blood line of Vito Corleon.

[@TheGodYouWishYouKnew]

Tony63909 He's Sicilian. He looks Italian/Sicilian.

[@Tony63909]

+TheGodYouWishYouKnew I saw Godfather 3 and the villain there, the guy that was murdered at the end by Michael's bodyguard looked polish. He did not look anywhere near Sicilian.

[@TheGodYouWishYouKnew]

Tony63909 Maybe. But that's nowhere near as important as Sonny looking Italian.

[@lansky52]

You cant fully appreciate all the scenes until you watch them again on youtube.

[@FunnyVideoMaker77]

I thought I was the only one who has that mentality.

[@kevtb874]

There's something about a scene that can hold up on its own outside the context of the full movie. Sort of like how a good song will still sound great on nothing but an acoustic guitar. It's just good regardless. Based on my youtube Godfather binge I would say that these movies are filled with strong scenes like that.

[@commonsenselyrics]

I personally think the godfather series has amazing scenes but in between it takes a long time. Watching the best scenes isolated makes more of an impact for me

[@BrokenSIMGlasses]

Or look at the comment section of how much other people praise the scenes/movie

[@j-skullz]

I like reading everyone's analysis in the comments section lmao

[@herr_crustovsky]

James Caan, an amazing actor and the perfect Sonny Corleone, his mark on the history of cinema will be remembered! Rest in peace

[@hisdness1]

😥😥😥 I now see he died in July this year. That's real sad.

[@jalalburnell1749]

If you didn't know, James once did a screen test for Michael, but Al portraying Michael stuck in Francis's head, and the rest is history.

[@adelaideadelaide8855]

One of the greatest films I always remember when I was a child is 'Rollerball" with James Caan and John Houseman.

[@ItsTimeIDisappear09]

Nobody can tell me that there's ever been a better acting performance than Al Pacino as Michael Corleone from the opening scene of The Godfather to this closing scene of Godfather II. It's all in the look in his eyes.....

[@victornguyen6847]

ItsTimeIDisappear09 Idiot he wasn't in the opening scene of The Godfather....

[@llxskywalkerxllcsgo4948]

Victor Nguyen You went to the college to get stupid

[@nishantnimish7825]

I just watched "The Secret in their eyes"

[@sam8793d]

cold, dead stare

[@mubashirlatif9350]

100% correct

[@lsufa]

This scene is so criminally underrated. It brings everything full circle. Michael has always been alone. Whether by his choice or because of his actions. He's always distanced himself from the family. The way every character becomes in The Godfather is molded right here. Connie, the submissive youngest sibling who is ordered around slightly by Sonny. This becomes a pattern in GF Pt 1. Carlo orders her around and Connie is very submissive to him and in takes the brunt of his frustrations. Tom, is the one who tries to be the voice of reason as well as be the Don's mouthpiece. The same thing happens in gf pt 1. Tom is the voice of reason and accompanies Vito on all important trips and is the one who acts as a messenger between the Corleones and other families. Fredo is meek and out of place. He can't seem to do anything right. He congratulates Mike to the dismay and anger of Sonny. In gf pt 1 he fumbles his gun after Vito is shot, goes into a catatonic state, and gets smacked around by Moe Greene in public, and even takes Moe's side against his families'. Sonny is loving yet hotheaded. We see how playful he is with Fredo and the kiss he gives Mike. He even introduces Carlo to Connie. But, once Mike goes against their father's wishes, Sonny blows up on him. This would prove to be his downfall. When he wants to be, Sonny can be a great family man and smart. But, he's too irrational and not suited being Don. And, then there's Mike. He's quiet and to himself. But, he's deviant. He's not afraid to challenge Sonny like Fredo and Connie are. Also, he has intelligent comebacks for Tom's reasoning and questions unlike Sonny who blows up. Yet, because of this, he's all alone. He's not fiercely loyal to his father like Fredo, Tom,and Sonny are. He's not afraid to do what his father doesn't want him to do. But, he distances himself. He keeps Tom out of the loop, gives Fredo small and unimportant jobs, and watches as Connie runs wild with men who don't love her. I really don't think that the main theme of the story is how someone can go from good to bad. But, how completely and utterly alone Michael Corleone is.

[@christian6455]

Yup Tom and Don tried to make michael be just like don but it fail. that why the was talking about his future. I think even sonny knew this and was piss that Micheal said no. ferdo is supported but sonny and the family business all pick on him. and the sister just get treated how women used to be treated (but it went to far)

[@jasonleetaiwan]

Man, you really got this story down. Yup, Michael does what he wants and was the best son to succeed Vito.

[@fazorni]

And the most touching point in the movie: How Vito loved Michael and had high hopes for him, in pt. 2 young Vito is shown several times stating how he loves baby Michael, in this scene you see him holding his hand bye bye, he has always been his favourite son.. In pt. 1 when Tom tells him that Michael was the one who killed Sollozo, Vito is upset and tells them to go away.. That said Michael loved his father so much he killed people for him knowing he would be separated from his loved one Kay for at least a year, but he had to save his father he sacrificed for him.. he was the one who went and visited him in the hospital.. he loves his father, but he wants to make his own bones like his father did on his own.. He never fitted being a Don and a family man at the same time, Vito had that lean charismatic character that gave him power without being a brutal animal.. he had power while being lean and caring for his family, Michael didn't have this kind of character.. he had to choose.. which is why this movie is so tragic and touching!

[@CrewMonkey1458]

It's ironic that after everything Michael did to be a powerful Don, ensure the Corleones' survival and to keep his family together, it tore apart his family, costing him his marriage to Kay, the life of Fredo and his own soul. The last shot of Michael all alone, reinforces this. Like Creon at the end of Antigone.

[@troydsouza3568]

"Its The Price You Pay For The Life You Choose"

[@greggmoore172]

Perfect ending. The dead look in Michael's eyes at the end says it all.

[@ericdraven_9481]

It really should've ended the series right here instead of getting the stupid and pointless part 3

[@NinjaBuddha503]

@@ericdraven_9481 I'm sure the main and only reason you dislike GF3 is Sophia Coppola's acting. Would a remake of GF3 make you happy? I personally enjoy part 3 because it goes into great depth into how evil this world really is. Micheal tried to redeem himself and said he would sin no more but his sins caught up to him. What he feared the most and why he wanted out of the family in the first place.

[@harvmoon5130]

@@NinjaBuddha503 you i like u

[@dumenek4102]

@@NinjaBuddha503 facts. That scream after Mary's death is one of the defining moments of the franchise. Mike may have not believed while the good Cardinal absolved him from his sins, but he sure knew at that moment, at the opera celebrating his son's career and after relinquishing his crime lordship to Vincenzo, that a violent payback was due, especially for Fredo's murder. Sofia Copp wasn't much of an issue for me, although Winona Ryder as Mary could have upped the technical finesse of GF3.

[@marcosc7375]

@@ericdraven_9481 Actually Godfather 3 was a very good movie. It’s just that you can’t compare it to the first two which are considered by many including me as the two best of all time. If the first two didn’t happen the third one would be just a great movie but not the greatest of all time.

[@MojoMachin3]

"they didn't know it was pops birthday" that line and the delivery always cracks me up

[@lolomgmetobavi]

He was incredibly stupid.

[@girllovesmusic]

Ditto- Love that!

[@occasionallygrumpy1066]

lolomgmetobavi I always thought it was a joke but because it was Fredo they just assumed it was unironic.

[@alvifadhollah]

It would be great if it was unscripted 😅

[@alexj.5207]

my grandma has the same birthday as Vito

[@neelanshguptaa1440]

Marlon Brando was originally going to reprise his role for this scene but in the end he didn’t show up to set on the day of filming so Coppola rewrote this scene without him, and while I do believe we may have gotten an memorable masterpiece from him if he did appear, I can’t feel help this ending is perfect this way. Vito’s absence adds a sense of gravitas to his character and this ending in a way his being physically present never would.

[@adamgordon6435]

Coppola should have realized that that was a preview of how much of a PITA Brando would be while filming Apocalypse Now, though it was still a great performance.

[@57highland]

You're absolutely right. *"Aw, that's Pop talking."* *"You're gd right that's Pop talking."* Brando was all over this scene without being seen. It was actually all about him. The click of the door opening in the next room and the "Surprise!" was all that was needed.

[@Eric31477]

You can still feel Vito Corleone's (via Marlon Brando's portrayl) presence in the scene. Even though he's not there, it's as if he's right on the other side of the wall walking in to the house.

[@chirsbowman8041]

yes and adds more gravitas! to the weighty burden/role Michael was taking on--carrying the torch

[@MarklovesAngels]

Yes, Michael haunted by his father's unseen presence as much as Hamlet was by his father's ghost.

[@mattsuperfreak]

One of the most brilliant endings in all of cinema

[@jstone98]

+matthew woodall I also think it is interesting that you can show people this scene and not give anything away in what was to come in both films. One of the greatest scenes ever.

[@cedarfarris7012]

just like "Apocolypse Now" ..@Thai Linh Nguyen..."Money it's a bitch.."

[@PlaceboPictures]

Thái Linh Nguyễn Didn’t need him. Brando would have just been a distraction from what this scene is actually about.

[@57highland]

@@PlaceboPictures The presence of the Don (Brando) is actually more heavily felt with his not being visible. Nearby but not visible.

[@57highland]

The thing that resonates about this flashback scene is that it happens to all of us in our later life. After the big blow-up, you have a flashback to when everything was going well, and your family was close and everyone loved each other, and none of the things that would split you up had even appeared on the horizon yet.

[@laminage]

+lindsey lefrois My Grandfather's House was like that with Family, Friends, and just hanging out especially during Xmastime. My Grandfather is dead, and the house got torn down. You never know the true meaning of something until it's gone.

[@nickguadenzi9205]

So true Lindsey.

[@Emp6ft10in]

I was just thinking that same exact thing after watching this clip.

[@emperorreign6154]

lindsey lefrois Your words of wisdom couldn't be any truer Lindsey. Sadly it's the story of my life right now where everyday is a flashback to what was happier and better times for me. And I'm only 27, so it's not exactly been many years ago! Sometimes I just wish I could freeze a moment and stay in it forever with everyone I've ever loved.

[@57highland]

@Emperor Reign: Don't be too good to anyone, even siblings and "best" friends. There's an excellent chance that none of it will come back to you, or even be remembered. Be decent, be polite, but don't be too helpful. This is not said in cynicism, bitterness, or anything of the sort. It's just a fact of life and of human nature.

[@soyginaespinoza]

This scene breaks my heart. Fredo supports to Michael, Tesio brings the cake. Man, they were a family. Michael lost everything.

[@Anthony-jd8pg]

Fredo & Tessio aren't innocent in this, they both played a hand in trying to have Michael killed. In Fredo's case even Michael's wife could have been killed. At that point, we're relatives, no longer family.

[@Truename586]

Michael was evil

[@fourthquartersportscards6044]

He did what he had to do....

[@fourthquartersportscards6044]

​@Truename586 you clearly don't get it .

[@pdhd793]

michael was montanna all along

[@Robertbuccellatobooks]

The ending shot is in my opinion one of the greatest in film history. A tortured and twisted man in black, eyes darkened by exhaustion, surrounded by ghosts. Untouched by the decaying leaves in his empty compound, makes a single calculated move and the darkness consumes him

[@carcarasilvestre8526]

Ele percebeu que Tony tinha razão. "Nós somos sua família. A pátria não é sua família".

[@mirix1515]

And still kept his marriage ring.

[@richspinaci8293]

As the camera comes in on Pacino’s face his eyes never blink. To me that’s the sign of a dead person. Even the background is dead. Dead leaves on the ground. A haunting image.

[@mathnaul9984]

Its underrated how the classic coppola half-shadow is cast over his face as the camera gets close, on a brightly lit day.

[@57highland]

At the end of this scene, Pacino does great acting even while sitting there alone with no lines.

[@AnthonyTotheRescue]

It is the masterful directing by Coppolla that made the last shot so powderful

[@57highland]

+Anthony L Yes, that's right. I was referring not so much to the very last scene of Michael sitting outside all by himself but the scene where everyone else leaves the dining room to go greet "Pop" at the door and Michael is left sitting alone at the table, collecting himself after Sonny's outburst.

[@AnthonyTotheRescue]

+lindsey lefrois i hadn't noticed that, michael always does end up alone despite making all the right moves. It's unfortunate

[@rayan.666]

And no fuckin oscars for that

[@christiancharles309]

One of the best last scenes ever

[@senna281285]

michael kills 3 of the people in that room later on

[@bornwithoutwarning]

+Emperor cesar and they all had it comin

[@boudayassine1068]

tessio.fredo and conie husband right?

[@senna281285]

ye fredo and tessio went behind michaels back so had it coming and the other douchebag had sunny killed

[@boudayassine1068]

Tessio want work with Barsini and want trait the corleone familly

[@StevenCarinci]

+bouda yassine The actor that played Tessio turned down the offer from Copolla to play that role in Part II as he felt there was no precedent in his character for that. That is what is called principle.

[@tekiuroti8455]

"Mommy, Daddys fighting again!" 😂😂😂😂 That never gets old for me 😂

[@jaredchapman3973]

For me, this is the best part of the trilogy. All these characters just having a good time without knowing the sad fates ahead of them. It's a brilliant scene

[@JacobMichaelC]

This is the most perfectly acted scene I've ever seen, especially for so many participants... Even Sonny's little girls' cries of "Daddy's fighting again!" are perfectly timed and performed. I could watch this scene on repeat...

[@romeotraettino2290]

Exactly

[@chirsbowman8041]

yes, one feels like they're actually there participating in the family community...so brilliant

[@Bucketheadhead]

I think this scene tells the story of what is to come. Connie being mistreated by Sonny for being a woman, which led to Carlo abusing her. Sonny acting like a hot head, acting before he thinks rather than the opposite, Tom seeking Michael's approval in a sense by attempting to reason with him, Fredo being humiliated while trying to voice his opinion, while trying to be a man like his father and brothers. And then Michael. Alone. These themes develop in the future of these people's lives, as we already knew.

[@kimngantruong6405]

Thatäs brilliant of you to recognize that, I didnt

[@Bucketheadhead]

Kim Ngân Trương Haha thanks, maybe it's what the director wanted, certainly how I see it

[@brainwasher9876]

well put.

[@debgib007]

Just so you know this scene was filmed post part 2. Also Marlon Brando refused to do the scene that's why you don't see him in the movie.

[@libraryquiet]

That's a good analogy..., it fits. Even then Michael had a certain demeanor that even Sonny didn't know how to deal with.

[@Alexgeneseo]

2:30 the look of sadness and regret on Sonnys face always resonated with me. He was so angry with michael for going against the family but realized the danger michael is putting himself in

[@flightofthebumblebee9529]

He loves him to death. He breaks his balls about college and being the goody goody brother, but that's what Sonny wanted for him (as well as Tom and of course Vito). He hates that he cannot protect him now, and feels helpless, but can't be mad at Michael for becoming a man. Amazing film.

[@chirsbowman8041]

@@flightofthebumblebee9529 and he communicated all of that with his eyes...old school and masterful

[@57highland]

Yes, absolutely. As the children of a very rich man, their lives were so insular, so protected, so privileged, so safe. And now Michael is going far away, who knows where, and risking his life ... "for strangers." That was terrible for Sonny in that moment.

[@mannyw3739]

Damn he's all alone at the end.

[@bilajoin]

He still has Tom, his Sister and his kids.

[@SaberRexZealot]

That's the beauty of it. All of his hard work left him with less than he started with. He realizes too late what truly mattered to him.

[@alexhodgkinson6718]

That final conversation between him and Tom seemed to split them. If even Tom thinks you're going too far, you're going to fucking far. His kids don't have their mother and he doesn't seem like a very fun dad who hangs out with them. His sister only seemed to speak to him near the end of the film because she wanted to help Fredo. She seemed to resent him at the beginning.

[@gkj13]

everyone in that life, who goes that route ends up alone in the end, either dead or in jail. only 2 ways to go.

[@x111tian]

all those money vs the importnt things in life your choice?

[@MultiMrMiles]

ending shot is pure ART, really.

[@jasonleetaiwan]

Yeah, he had to make it up since Brando, didn't show up, but it worked great that way. I love the long shot on Michael and we didn't really need to actually see Vito because it would have made the scene longer instead of just ending it on Michael sitting there alone.

[@StarfieldRailway]

Brando didn't have to be there. The scene is about Michael.

[@Teddy_Bass]

LoL When the last shot pans into Michel's face I was thinking this is up there with the Mona Lisa.

[@TheMacv92]

​This scene works perfectly without Brando because it focus more on his sons,that's some real deep scene imo.

[@alexf8314]

I agree 100% with all of you. This scene is so much better the way it is compared to how it was originally planned with Brando (Vito) making a quick appearance. The scene is about Michael and Michael alone.

[@BellicIV]

After the events of godfather 2. Michael leaves the states and hidesout in Cuba where he changes his identity and becomes Tony Montana.

[@MegaTonytheboss]

Afterwards he begins to miss the United States and moves there becoming a dishwasher

+Chucky Masciano - Only to witness his brother handcuffed to a shower curtain rod and get mauled by a Columbian with a chainsaw

[@conkersla]

then he gets revived by the dragon balls to get back to the family and fuck it all up again.

[@kostarossides5062]

+Chucky Masciano "Don't call me a fucking dishwasher boy, mang."

[@57highland]

"Jou fuck wit me, jou fucka wit the best!"

[@gustavolazio8]

"Your country ain't your blood, you remember that."

[@georgeguja6155]

,, I don't feel that way"

[@anmoljayswal8263]

Gustavo Vargas agree!!

[@russelllamb7549]

That's pop talking

[@Silverfoxxee]

The Mafia was not patriotic, the government had to bribe them to get their support to help protect the docks from German sabotage, otherwise they might have helped the Germans. Go's to show what scum the mafia really was.

[@MasterRoyalSnow]

Silverfoxxee the mafia was patriotic and anti-white supremacist.

[@KC-hz4tk]

"Jimmy was my fictional brother and my lifelong friend." "It's hard to believe that he won't be in the world anymore because he was so alive and daring. A great actor, a brilliant director and my dear friend. I'm gonna miss him." Al Pacino said today.

[@lwnoronha]

"Mommy, Daddy's fighting again..." - genius touch to this scene!

[@tonycapella1402]

One of the best lines in the film. A voice of innocence cuts through so much conflict.

[@quakethedoombringer]

Makes you wonder how often does Sonny beat up people in front of his kids for them to say something so casually like that

[@leonthesleepy]

Its kinda depressing to see that fredo was the only one supportive about Michael, and ended up betraying him.

[@user-oq5ox1tq3g]

that was the point

[@rickmiru]

Thats why he broke michael's heart

[@danl2136]

Sonny's daughter stole the scene with "Mommy, Daddy's fighting again" 🤣

[@Jwitz529]

I think about this ending frequently. There are times I feel like Michael in the last shot, alone and haunted by memories of ghosts. Truly the best ending of any movie. So powerful, so dark. So real.

[@johngotti8410]

Me too

[@MrAkashvj96]

One of the bleakest final shots of any movie ever. The self-made man lords an empire of dust.

[@tiemedown]

+Nameless Paladin "Look on my works ye mighty and despair" - Michael was a true Ozymandius

[@abhishekparmar6702]

@@tiemedown I knew someone was gonna quote ozymandious lol

[@vakeone]

For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?

[@ericdraven_9481]

v Matthew 16:26

[@beezelsub]

I'm positive that quote was firmly in mind.

[@seanalimov372]

No, this scene shows that Michael was like that from the beginning. He would have been alone no matter what.

[@Radio916ix]

That shot where Michael is sitting at the table alone & the Don's chair is subtly appearing in the background is brilliant... Really lays out Michael's destiny that he was meant to be the Don. As far as I'm concerned Godfather Part 3 doesn't exist.

[@57highland]

You hit the nail on the head. Michael sitting alone while everyone else goes to greet "Pop" is very telling. He sits there collecting himself after Sonny's outburst ... sipping, smoking, and thinking, apart from the happiness in the other room. Yes, Part III was awful. I could have done better myself. Coppola and Puzo really lost their way.

[@Kearyjb]

lol Can you believe people try to defend that movie?

[@josephgoggin5632]

Yep, it’s a 2-film saga

[@gabrieldjatienza6971]

Agree with Godfather 3's non existence. Seeing Michael completely alone in Godfather 2...end of story.

[@watchafewmoviestakeafewnot1459]

Yeah I was always impressed by the themes and fate of each person there but today was the first time I caught the chair he’d eventually sit in for the rest of his life, the one he tried to avoid so badly

[@andyrevo1927]

2:27 Even tho Sonny wanted to smack Michael for not letting his family know about him enlisting in the Marines, you can see in Sonny's face he deeply cares about his lil brother.

[@mrbiggs36]

Personally, I feel that this is how the Godfather saga ended. I pretend like the Godfather p.3 never happened.

[@01Mary02]

Yep. Kinda like Superman 3 never existed.

[@lynnpabontheelitehero6579]

Mary Patterson lol. Or 4 and 5.

[@star-lorddavid-1015]

Yeah! I rather prefer Part II the conclusion of The Godfather Saga much better! I pretend Part III never fuckin existed!

[@darijanbabic2]

mrbiggs36 why man,i would like to se godfather 4...would like to see Andy Garcia as a godfather...

[@RX7821979]

mrbiggs36 fuck Andy Garcia

[@ZjawbreakerZ]

Only the big brothers can fully relate to the unconditional tough love Sonny always had for Michael, many thanks to James Caan's amazing performance, what a phenomenal actor.

[@user-pi1lb4tf2f]

It's more of a generational toxicity if anything. Michael was the smartest of the children. He was burdened with knowing he is a part of a crime family that he wants out immediately. But Sonny fully embraced his position. He's aggressive, a womanizer and he manhandles his siblings. Sure he can beat up Michael but I doubt Michael will give up his wishes. James Caan perfectly portrayed Sonny as the guy "born" to be a mafioso and his death in the story, while a tragedy, was not unforeseen and in some ways poetic because he underestimates his enemies and gives in to his emotions easily. And this was all foreshadowed in the scene where he was ready to go into the drug business when Vito himself never touched that territory for years and he was THE Godfather.

[@mauziki]

Yes, Sonny to me was the best in the family because of his unconditional love for all and James Caan made that character come to life. Incredible performance.

[@TheRealHerbaSchmurba]

Mike’s demeanor has always been the most interesting to me. Even before joining the military, he stood on his own and pushed back against people who would try and over exert. When Sonny grabbed his shirt Mike immediately pushes against him. He’s quiet but he does not fear anyone, and honestly it seems quite apparent that Sonny always had a high level of respect for Mike that he coped with by being over aggressive, as Mike is always the one who wouldnt relent in light of his intimidation.

[@dushyantjadav8083]

That Michael could remain so unfazed by Sonny's moods and temper shows the level of composure he possessed !!!

[@burhanuddinmukadam3817]

Zindagi ek pal me saali yun palat gayi hamari khaab hai toh mujhko naa jaga and this scene 💔💔💔

[@user-pi1lb4tf2f]

Because Michael probably had enough of his family's bullshit. Sure he loves them but now that they are americans yet they kept playing the sicilian family they never went to. He was supposed to embody the american dream of fighting for one's belief and achieving good life by providing a contribution to the society. Infact, I think if Vito didn't hand out any of the "assist" Michael denied, if he came out alive in the war, he would find himself running in the office, be it a senator or similar.

[@dfa3366]

Michael reflects how close his family was and now how alone he feels. Such a profound ending.

[@anonimus500p6]

This scene really gives you an exact portrayal of who every character really is, in just 5 minutes.

[@dehlanshandirkayr6182]

4:37 The lighting was perfect, the camera zooms in to divide Michaels face in two halves, the young Michael and his dark side and then Michaels theme kicks in. Brilliant.

[@hellomate2405]

Reading the book gives you more insight into the characters. Sonny loved Tom like his own brother. That kind of love was never replicated by anyone not even Michael. The ending if godfather 2 is so poignant. It takes you back to the time when the Corleone family was at its peak. Everyone's was at the table and happy. How Fredo supported Michael just to show us how far Michael has come. And in the end is all alone sitting at his throne

[@puplover7991]

Look at Pacino's expression at the 0:24 mark. Not even a trace of the cold blooded ice king he's about to become. We can see his relative innocence at this point and all w/o speaking a word. That's acting.

[@57highland]

He also does a lot without any lines when he's sitting alone at the table after everyone goes in the other room to greet "Pop", sitting there continuing to collect himself after Sonny's outburst ... sipping, smoking, thinking, apart from his family.

[@jordanturner7917]

Sonny really does share many of Vitos manneurisms and will and facial expressions. The way he looks at Michael with such a fatherly frustration he looks almost exactly like Vito. Great acting

[@vinnydurham8964]

fredo was the only one who was pleased for him

[@Suave2459]

Makes it more sad that mike killed him after this

[@paogate1384]

sparrow2202 I agree with you, he wanted an opportunity but didn't realize Mike & Family were going to be expendable in the process

[@marvinhagler001]

sparrow2202 nobody gave a shit about Fredo people cared about vito,santino and then Tom after Michael came in he then got high respected Fredo basically betrayed his family just to get popular

[@jasonleetaiwan]

Michael did know that Fredo didn't intentionally almost get him killed, but once he made it clear that he was jealous of Michael's position, Michael couldn't trust him as it was only a matter of time before Fredo would do something else to jeopardize Michael's family. It was a matter of trust. Fredo showed how jealous he was and that he wasn't happy being just a lieutenant to his younger brother.

[@septiawoman7687]

You're right Jason. Jealously is an emotion and can fester for years. In an instant, Michael saw that and knew that although Fredo exploded, Fredo was still unhappy and not satisfied.

[@rokyericksonroks]

(@2:36) "Mommy, daddy's fighting again!" Little kids delivered that line pretty good, like all the scenes in this movie.

[@Coffee4commonsense]

The character that to me gets over looked at times is Tom. Here was a man who brought into this home as a child by Sonny. Tom was a street kid with no home. Vito and his wife’s generosity created the one person that Michael could 100% count on. He never had the temper that Sonny had, which caused Sonny’s demise. Fredo’s stupidity and jealously that led to his demise. Connie’s rebellion against her family and bad choices caused by her being a woman of that time. Where she had no voice or opinion. Just shushed out of the room when the conversation got heated. Vito saw Tom’s intelligence, loyalty and love for his adopted family. I believe that is why when Tom says to Michael “ Many times , he and I talked about your future...”. I think Vito knew Tom would be the only one that he count on to watch over his favorite child ,Michael.

[@jameslisle7775]

Knowing the future of these characters makes this scene so heartbreaking. One of the greatest scenes in movie history!

[@msxmurda2385]

I love how Sonny manhandles Mike with one arm. It’s such a big brother thing to do.

[@ugoodHomeBoy]

That look he gives at the end is so fucking creepy, it's unreal. Just dead hallow eyes

[@vars280287]

This is probably the greatest ending of all time.

[@isosTV]

I always lose it when Fredo tries to shake Michael’s hand and Sonny shoves it away 😅

[@mauziki]

Also look at Tom's expression when Fredo is congratulating Mike. 😂

Funny how as great parts I and II are, the last 4 minute 56 seconds of this film is simple and subtly as great as 4 hours of both movies...basically this scene ties up everything : past, present, present future, future past. So much symbolism and ironic fate beautifully done. Michael reminiscing a moment from 20 + years earlier alone at family dinner detached, cuz he doesn’t wanna be apart of it. Then all those years later he’s alone, all of family gone, cuz he became apart of it. It’s so tragic,and poetically sad. So well done.

[@Duskets]

I love how the dialogue surrounding Pearl Harbor reflects the temperament of the 3 Corleone brothers in this scene. Sonny is loud and abrasive, declaring his opinion strongly and with authority. Fredo is diminutive and a bit dim, but shows a child-like sweetness when he says “they didn’t know it was pop’s birthday.” As the middle child, he has next to no lines because of how easily he’s often overlooked. Finally, Michael is quiet and aloof but also possesses a strong sense of character that cannot be moved, even when held up to Sonny’s scrutiny. It’s a shame we lost two of these powerhouse actors because they really were gems.

[@sam8793d]

Even the cut to baby Michael waving goodbye on the train, it's like he's waving goodbye to any hope he had at living the life he wants to. He never had a chance

[@skyblueerik]

Best ending to a movie, ever.

[@rewster7]

I agree. That final shot of Michael all alone makes it my favourite ending.

[@lukebullen705]

People dont realise when Tom told Michael his father had plans for him it wasnt to run the family business it was to be a senator and have a life away from crime which was why he sent Michael to college. Really tragic story

[@rahatahmed6188]

He should’ve listened to his father.

[@human_rights0]

Bro Micheal had own plan for own future! He never wanted to enter father business! But unfortunately he entered!

[@rahatahmed6188]

@@human_rights0 if he didn’t go to the war, the situation would be very different. Michael probably would’ve lived a good life.

[@omegajrz1269]

Now I understand where Vince Gilligan got, for Better Call Saul, the resource of showing parallel situations between the past and the present. Showing how previous situations connect to the present and the end

[@godfreecharlie]

I think one of the reasons I'm so attracted to the Godfather setting is the closeness of the family, their gatherings, celebrations... the warmth generated by their love for each other. Those scenes were created by a master craftsman and dozens of people ideal for the job providing the human emotional element.

[@IDF1987]

RIP Abe Vigoda

[@robbiereilly]

+Ben Abe as Tessio reminds me so much of uncles of mine who'd come in just like, fedora and raincoat, bringing in gifts or cake, etc. at the holidays. This scene is so full of depth.

[@57highland]

And don't forget Abe as Detective Phil Fish on "Barney Miller" and later on "Fish".

[@Bates1960]

RIP Gastone Moschin.

[@johnmolina3441]

A tremendous closing scene. Show's how far they came from the beginning to the present where Michael is all alone.

[@Mr_Gray_1995]

You can’t fully appreciate this scene until You’ve been there, everything gone, family, friends, loved ones

[@Comictalent]

I'm not sure there's every been a more poignant movie ending than that. It's perfect.

[@dhankins627]

+Comictalent Seriously. The look in Michael's eyes at the end says it all.

[@salvyy]

+Comictalent "The GodFather I" has the best opening scene in movie history too.

[@alvalankerofficial]

"Go show Carlo the tree."

[@BellicIV]

Why is that a good quote?

[@penguinpie5056]

hey, you just talk to carlo, alright...

[@alvalankerofficial]

It's hilarious. Sonny gets all pissed and wants Conny and Carlo to go away so he just goes "go show carlo the tree."

[@upland77]

@@penguinpie5056 LMAO!!! Perfect comment 😂😂😂

[@loghunathan1930]

heroinhero69 ha ha ha

[@chrispap4957]

"What did ya go to college to get stupid?" Amazing line

[@vmarino7618]

Look at the talent at that table: James Caan, John Cazale, Robert Duvall & Al Pacino!!

[@thegreatgorganza]

I think there can't be any other scene as thought-provoking as well as heartbreaking as this one. What was once a happy family has been disintegrated to a nonentity. Half the people at that table are dead. Three of whom turned traitors and were killed for their treachery. One who died a violent death due to his own animalistic rage. In a way, even the Michael who's sitting at that table is dead as the newly transformed, cold-hearted Michael has left no trace of the Michael who was once a caring, compassionate and empathetic soul trying to chart a different course of life. This one scene itself describes the magnitude of destruction that has been caused without having to show even a dint of bloodshed. The "Don" Michael Corleone sitting alone in his backyard at the end of the movie is nothing more than a phantasmal caricature of what was once the more human, more real Michael. Kudos to Coppola and Puzo for the expert drafting and execution of especially this scene.

[@57highland]

thegreatgorganza This scene was the work of a young, up-and-coming screenwriter (at the time) named Robert Towne. They brought him in specially to help them come up with an ending.

[@thegreatgorganza]

lindsey lefrois Indeed and kudos to him. But Coppola must also be appreciated for the deft direction of the scene, as also Puzo who gave a lot of inputs for it.

[@babbattaDAdentist]

+thegreatgorganza yeah funny the good guy who wanted nothing of the family business turned out to be the best suited for the job tho

[@rondierice4922]

They couldn't get Brando to come back and film this scene for GF 2 !

[@NinjaBuddha503]

Let's not forget this Connie went through 2 transformations and is also dead. She went from being a weak battered wife to a total slut to a ranking member of the Corleone family. We see all 3 of her in this film but part 3 showed her smarten up and be a part of this thing their father started.

[@jjstraka1982]

It's a shame this wasn't the last image we see of The Godfather movies....Vito's presence only felt only as a ghost because of Brando's absence, and Michael alone, ruler of an empire of dust....

[@mrMndBs123]

What I love about this scene is that in spite of all the money and power Michael has along with the fact that he whipped out most of his enemies including his own brother who sold him out, he looks back and remembers how the family business is something he didn’t want to be involved with in the first place. You can tell that his father really loved his family and wanted the best for them especially for Michael but unfortunately it doesn’t end up that way because of other families and mafias eventually showing up and tearing the family apart all because of money and greed. Michael himself said times were changing. He ended up being the don and a murder because he wanted to avenge those he loved and take revenge against those who tried to kill him and protect his loved ones but ends up losing everyone, so then eventually and again he ends up all alone. Always felt bad for Mike.

[@Vinny.X]

Anyone else feel the same? The same loneliness you felt in the family crowd when younger is the same loneliness you feel all alone when older...

[@cedricsharpe9474]

I can relate to that

[@trovuong]

I really liked how the last shot of Michael showed his wrinkles underneath his right eye. The stress and sacrifices he made placed a heavy toll on him. It was like the face of Vito Corleone is slowly revealing through him.

[@italkedtobarzini4015]

This key scene is real testament to the contrast between Tom's and Santino's characters. Notice how Tom responds to Santino's outrage to the Pearl Harbour attack with reason, by citing the oil embargo that the US had imposed was bound to result in retaliation. Even at a time when the entire propagandized nation was understandably hurting with raw emotion and wanted vengeance at any cost, Tom had the foresight to see things from the enemy's perspective. He had a clear understanding of the relationship between cause and effect when emotions were pervading at their highest, unlike Santino. Lacking such clarity of thought whilst cast under the spell of highly emotional circumstances would ultimately lead to Santino's downfall.

[@johnzajac9849]

All you can do is applaud. And then, applaud some more. Masterful.

[@57highland]

James Caan wrapped up Sonny perfectly with his performance in this scene.

[@SuperPhilly5]

love how the ending tells 2 tales that the corleone empire is the strongest mafia in america it is also in ruins because michael is alone and lost everyone that is close to him as the expense of becoming so powerful and is the total opposite of what his father was truly a brilliant ending

[@muizrahim861]

Vito started as a family man and gained respect from everyone including the other families make him a likeable person that ended up with Michael, a total polar opposite, being in a torn up relationship with his wife and family, even killed his own brother, making people fear him and end up being all alone.

[@YungM.D.]

Pretty tragic how Fredo is the only one to be happy for Michael. He was stupid, but he was, at his heart, a good brother.

[@freddiegibbs101]

The greatest flashback in the history of cinema. This must have been so shocking and cathartic to see for the first time in theaters. "For he's a jolly good fellow, for he's a jolly good fellow ..."

[@chrisd2051]

I love how the four brothers are like the parts of the brain. Fredo is the innocence of childhood almost, Sonny is impulsive, Tom and Michael are different sides of the same part. Tom is rational to the end of peace through negotiations and Michael is peace through elimination of your enemies. Mario Puzo should be considered one of the best authors in western literature.

[@coldtruth9235]

People don't seem to realize how powerful this scene is, this was Michael's memory during or soon after Fredo's death. He reminisced about the old good times in their family and realized that he is all alone. The way his family has treated their father Vito with warmth, compassion and love but a stark contrast for Michael. In the end he was left with nothing. Broken family, custody battle for his children and his sister and brothers he could count left him or dead. It is a fitting ending and a start of Michael's new found realization that would lead to part 3 which showed Michael as a remorseful, sad and depressed man.

[@TheWhiskeyZone]

Such a haunting ending. More than half of the characters in this scene are gone and we are left with a broken man who just wanted to break free from his family’s sins and dark past. Now he sits on a throne of power but with immense lonesomeness and reluctance.

[@kahlilpittman8404]

The most underrated part of this scene is Santino introducing Carlo to Connie. If this doesn’t happen, the course of this film series takes a complete 360

[@basilmarasco1975]

In fact, the book had Sonny introducing Carlo to Connie, though it didn't describe the occasion or give details, as this scene does.

[@TheCmascagni]

180

[@maythefuhrerofunderstandin9624]

@@TheCmascagni "180, you stupid, spaghetti-slurping cretin - *180*! If I did a 360, I'd go completely around and end up back where I started! "

[@TheCmascagni]

@@maythefuhrerofunderstandin9624 you’re not very smart are you?

[@maythefuhrerofunderstandin9624]

@@TheCmascagni I was quoting Last Action Hero, snowflake. you can stop being butthurt.

[@nashshaffer6235]

When the girls say, "daddy's fighting again" that's the saddest part...

[@Thraxxx03]

This is the greatest ending of a movie I’ve ever seen. You can tell Michael was regretting ever getting into the family business. He had other plans but things changed and he also had to change. Al is an amazing actor.

[@futuropasado]

Vito would never accept family killings. Michael was the worst family member but great at business being Don, period.

[@eagl3ye]

Gee Mikey that’s swell. Congratulations. Cracks me up every time. 😂

[@human_rights0]

Fredo: Well congratulations mike😂

[@lbk4401]

Final 30 seconds are one of the most compelling and haunting ending scenes in cinema. Also: note how the scene is framed as Michael sits alone at the table while his family greets Vito. In the background you see the infamous chair in which his father sits - as if waiting for Michael as his inevitable fate.

[@DanielDaniel-ky6hq]

The apple doesn't fall too far from the tree. Michael was more like his father than he wanted to be.

[@BellicIV]

Not at all. Michael never felt true hunger. He never faced poverty. Vito went worked his way up every step of the way. Michael didn't.

[@kevinzhang3313]

+BellicIV Not what he meant.

[@karadanianoI]

vitto was loving and caring (he forgave carlo and the families who conspirated to kill sonny just to have some peace), michael was ruthless. he killed his own brother, and hit his wife (again, vitto never would have done that)

[@pritpalsingh3609]

This scene puts so much things into perspective. It's not just that things went worse for mike randomly. But it was his nature of being a loner all alone. So subconsciouslly he made some pretty rough decisions that made him a loner at the end too. He was the same all along. But he only realised that at the end. Alone sitting on top of his empire.

[@elhuecoeculo]

1:07 Notice how tessio slightly checks if Sonny's playing or actually fighting as he knows him so well lol. This kind of details is what makes this jewel more valuable over the time

[@human_rights0]

They're showing childhood

[@Nighthawk-8050]

Thank you Mr. Caan RIP 1940-2022