Class Discussion

Discussing a little about Melisa's post (again)... As I was scanning through this (her post), I thought about the American dream- and then thought about Bonasera. What happened to him? A lot of characters seem to come and go- quite a few have died already.

Speaking of the American Dream, a website I read the other day had stated that there was this 'become successful' idea, however it became corrupt over the years, turning into 'move to America, get rich quick'. This relates a little to Bonasera's situation- He tried so hard to become 'American' yet life in America seems to not be as good as it's put out to be- his daughter is abused.

Also, does anyone else find themselves focusing more on the plot than analyzing camera angles and such? Whenever I watch movies, I just find myself focusing on the plot...

After discussing things such as lighting and camera angles during film class, however, I think that maybe I can gain more practice thinking outside of the plot. It's fun to find all these hidden "easter egg" archetypes, literary features, etc. which seem to enhance the movie once you know them.

Archetypes in the Godfather

After the section of The Godfather we saw today in class, I was surprised how much the plot seemed to turn into focusing on Michael. At the beginning of the film, he doesn't seem like an important character at all- rather, the Godfather is the main point of focus.

After he had been shot, however, he has been pushed almost completely out of the plot! The audience has hardly been able to see him, and he hasn't talked at all. Michael, who is a bit of an unknown, ambiguous character, suddenly 'joins in' on family matters (accepting the call?)

There are a number of events which seem to suggest that 'Michael is the hero'- he first rejects his family, then agrees to 'join' it, is mentored, and then receives a 'magical weapon'. If Michael does end up being the 'hero', he will probably play a big part in the plot.

Personally, I'm a little curious as to what becomes of him, though, since apparently he has to go on vacation for a year, and that might mean that he can't become involved in the plot...

Foreshadowing in "The Godfather" Scene

Agreeing and adding to Melisa's statements, there is subtle (forgettable, but still very noticeable) foreshadowing in the scene where Luca Brazi is killed. In the scene where he is entering the building, the audience sees Luca Brazi through glass, and then as the camera focuses on the fish on the glass, the audience notices the fish. Even though this foreshadowing isn't that subtle, when the viewer focuses on the plot, the fish seem to be quickly forgotten. The reference isn't returned to until Sonny recieves the package of fish, signifying that "Luca Brazi sleeps with the fishes". I think it's interesting how this piece of foreshadowing signifies that 'this is the place where Luca Brazi will sleep with the fishes'- like a premonition before death.