Opened: December 20, 1974

Directed by: Francis Ford Coppola

Starring: Al Pacino, Robert Duvall, Diane Keaton, Robert De Niro, John Cazale, Talia Shire, Lee Strasberg, Michael V. Gazzo, G. D. Spradlin, Richard Bright, Gastone Moschin, Tom Rosqui, Bruno Kirby, Frank Sicero, Morgana King, Francesca De Sapio, Marianna Hill, Leopoldo Trieste, Dominic Chianese, Amerigo Tot, Troy Donahue, Joe Spinell, Abe Vigoda, John Aprea, Oreste Baldini, Harry Dean Stanton, Danny Aiello & James Caan

Coming off the heels of the instantly legendary The Godfather, Part II had a lot to live up to. In its expansive storytelling, it not only manages to grasp audiences again, but it sets a precedence for what sequels should be.

Now the new Don of the Corleone family, someone tries to murder Michael (Al Pacino) on the night of his son’s first communion. Michael suspects a traitor and must protect his family. Years earlier, Vito Corleone (Robert De Niro) stakes his claim in New York City.

There’s a wonderful juxtaposition between the stories being told. Aside from the costuming and design, you see the rise of Vito and the hardships of Michael when their characters are about the same age. Both Pacino and De Niro are strong performers.

Final say: The golden standard of sequels – and films in general. ★★★★★