It is hard to imagine that the legendary Corleone family saga is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. The turmoil of the onscreen plot was matched by casting challenges and compromises. Why did Marlon Brando get the part of Vito Corleone, the original “don?” How did a relatively unknown Al Pacino secure the unforgettable role of Vito’s youngest son Michael? How did the young war hero become a cold-blooded mobster before our eyes? This plum part turned Pacino into a super star for 50 years.
The one-hour program explains fascinating backstory details through photos and ends with a terrific film clip that focuses on Michael’s downward spiral.