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"A man that doesn't spend time with his family can never be a real man." Vito Corleone
Played By: Marlon Brando
Film: The Godfather
Why He's On The List: Although he's the title character (and Brando is top billed, naturally), it's often a surprise for newcomers to The Godfather to find that Don Vito isn't the primary focus of the film. It's an epic ensemble piece, but it's his youngest son Michael who's the spine of the story. Still, Vito is the one who everybody loves most, as the family man so honourable and dedicated that somehow nobody cares that he's the head of a massive criminal empire. Maybe it's something to do with feeling safe. Brando gives one of his trademark 'performances of a lifetime' (he gave about a half dozen of those, by our count), and there's a nice parallel in the role with the 'old man' providing love and guidance to this collection of next generation stars (Pacino, Caan, Cazale, Shire and Duvall), but it's always, always his show. Don by name, Don by nature.
Finest Hour: After his retirement, advising Michael of how his enemies will move around him.
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Marlon Brando as Vito Corleone |
