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added 31.01.02 The Godfather trilogy box set.
£49.99 (DVD)

Mr Corleone, with these box sets you are really spoiling us, writes Alastair Metcalf

There are certain things in life that people should be given at birth. Apart from a name, some food and a copy of OK Computer, the recently released Godfather box set would also be a worthy addition to that list.

The set is spread over five sumptuous discs: one is taken by 'The Godfather', two by 'The Godfather part 2', one for the third installment and one whole disc of bonus features. It is all brought together in a nice shiny black cardboard box. What more could you want?

Based on Mario Puzo's best-selling novel, The Godfather, directed (by Francis Ford Coppola) is a masterpiece in cinematic endeavour. The film tells the tale of the Corleone family, headed by Vito Corleone (Marlon Brando), and the organised crime they represent. In doing so, Coppola sets a new standard for cinematic violence interspersed with Italian-American family life. Al Pacino, in his first key role, is captivating as youngest son Michael, a war hero turned ruthless, insensitive gangster. The film itself has spawned such classic lines as, "I made him an offer he couldn't refuse," and will leave you wanting to emulate Brando with some odd cheek arrangements and speaking, like him, in a weird way.

The follow on, imaginatively titled 'part 2', compliments the original so well. Whereas the majority of sequels are about as good as bad things from the land of poor, this follow on simply amazes. With the character of Brando dead from the previous instalment (sorry to have to break it to you like that, but if you've not seen it already then that's your look out), Coppola delves deeper into the Corleone history. In doing so he parallels the life of a young Vito Corleone with that of the new, astute Godfather, Michael (like Godfather, like son). In doing this, the film does not magically de-age Brando, but instead opts for a certain Mr De Niro. Not the worst alternative one could think of.

Both actors excel in their inimitable ways, with Pacino shading it for me. However, it is not just a two-man show. The spectacle incorporates career-best performances from Robert Duvall as the loyal, but sceptical lawyer Sam, and Diane Keaton as Michael's second wife, Kay. Coppola has his finger on the pulse, knowing what is needed, and every single actor responds to this. A rare thing in film terms.

The third installment sees many of the 'originals' returning for another crack at the whip. A fully mature, nigh on death, Pacino tries his hand as a legitimate business leader, but unlike the other two films, he does seem to carry the film ever so slightly. A few over-the-top performances, particularly by Michael's adopted protégé Vincent (Andy Garcia) has a faint whiff of a Channel 5 blockbuster about it, as does the rather camp hitman involved in later scenes. But don't let that put you off. This still a classy film, merely tarnished by the strength of its predecessors.

The extras are also worthy of a night in front of the TV. The original screen tests being the main attraction. Brando's in particular is enthralling, but what were you expecting anyway? The makers have obviously thought, in regards to poor extras on other DVDs, that this has got to stop, and stop it must. In this field alone, the disc is better than most of the turgid old guff-laden films coming out at the minute. The words 'Miss' and 'Congeniality' spring to mind.

Francis Ford Coppola went on to have a hand in Jeepers Creepers, but don't let that put you off. Instead, trust your heart and spend a few pounds on this. Coppola is making you an offer you can't refuse.

The Godfather [*****]

The Godfather Part 2 [*****]

The Godfather Part 3 [****]

Extras [*****]

alastair.metcalf@durham21.co.uk

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