The Godfather continues to fascinate and entertain audiences and have become some of the most enduring in the industry.   We will examine themes of family, family values, the criminal empire of the Corleone family as a metaphor for American capitalism and values, and the immigrant experience, and the film’s legacy of phrases that endure in the contemporary popular lexicon (“I’m gonna make him and offer he can’t refuse”; “keep your friends close, but your enemies closer”, etc.). It will also explore the folklore, legend, and background stories on the actual making of the film - Mario Puzo’s input, rallies by various Italian groups agains the making of the film, difficulties with the studio, perception of the film content, and the casting of experienced actors versus Coppola’s choices of relative unknowns. The program will analyze clips from the film and behind the scenes footage, for insights into the development, production, and cultural and cinematic legacy of the films.