The Godfather was the highest-grossing film of 1972 and for a while, the highest ever made at $250 and $291 million. It was chosen for preservation by the Library of Congress and ranks as the second-best film in America after Citizen Kane. Critics and audiences praised the film and the performances, which launched the acting careers of Pacino and Coppola. The film won Best Picture, Best Actor, and Best Adapted Screenplay at the 45th Academy Awards, along with seven other nominations. The historical, cultural, and aesthetic significance of the movie continues as a benchmark for all other films of similar genres. This small excerpt is a good example of its influence:
“I understand. You found paradise in America. You had a good trade, you made a good living, the police protected you and there were courts of law and you didn’t need a friend like me. But, now you come to me and say, Don Corleone, give me justice. But you don’t ask for respect, you don’t offer friendship. You don’t even think to call me ‘Godfather.’ Instead you come into my house, on the day my daughter is to be married and you ask me to do murder for money.”
