The Godfather: A Film we Can't Refuse

by Paramount Pictures, Rebecca Keegan (Narrator )

Step into the shadowy world of the Corleone family as Paramount Pictures unveils the enduring saga of The Godfather as never experienced before in this captivating Audible Original.

With exclusive insights from the legendary cast, including Al Pacino, Robert Duvall, Robert De Niro, and Talia Shire, and commentary from a diverse array of film experts and ardent aficionados, we dissect the film’s magnetic allure and its pervasive influence across our culture.

Journey alongside Rebecca Keegan, acclaimed senior film editor at The Hollywood Reporter, as she explores the heart of this cinematic masterpiece through a new lens. An exploration of the complexities of family and the nuances of gender dynamics, with echoes in pop culture and culinary inspiration, The Godfather is more than a movie—it’s a cultural phenomenon that continues to enthrall and intrigue us.

Together, we’ll ultimately seek answers to the enigma: Why does The Godfather hold such an indelible place in our lives? Why, after half a century, do we remain spellbound by the Corleone family’s tale of power, loyalty, and betrayal?

Genres: Nonfiction, Audiobook, Film, History

290 pages, Audible Audio

First published August 22, 2024

Reviews

[Melindam · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,5 stars

After finishing the incredible book Leave the Gun, Take the Cannoli: The Epic Story of the Making of The Godfather, I found myself unwilling to let go of the Godfather phenomenon. While checking Audible to see if The Godfather novel was available (sadly, it isn’t — likely due to copyright restrictions), I stumbled upon this Audible Original podcast from Paramount, hosted by journalist Rebecca Keegan. Since it’s included in the Plus Catalogue, I decided to give it a go.

Coming straight off the previously mentioned "Book High", some of the material here felt a bit repetitive. However, there were still fresh insights and angles that made it worth the listen. Keegan revisits the Godfather legacy through interviews with actors, the director, critics, scholars, influencers, chefs!, and die-hard fans: people of all ages and with vastly different backgrounds for whom this film has been a game-changer.

It’s both a tribute and a thoughtful exploration of the film’s enduring impact. Though I couldn't help but wonder: does Francis Ford Coppola still feel the same sense of creative optimism in a world now shaped by figures like Trump and Musk?

Overall, it’s a well-produced and engaging listen — maybe not essential, but a worthwhile companion piece for fans.

[Jeff · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m a shameless fan of The Godfather. Though there are loads of interviews, documentaries, etc. on the movie, the script, the actors, the adjusted ending (don’t get me started) … this 12-parter does a good job of letting the avid fan relish in the aura of a great, classic (though often very brutal) film. Don’t listen to it until you watch the films. Loads of spoilers. Oh - and this is not an official endorsement for the films 😬.

[Brianne Gillham · Rating 5 out of 5]

More of a podcast than a book - but a must listen for Godfather fans!

[Dennis Myers · Rating 2 out of 5]

Entertaining and great to have first-person interviews, but this is just 13 or so episodes of a podcast crammed together…not a book.

[Erin *Proud Book Hoarder* · Rating 4 out of 5]

It may seem that, after reading TWO books in 2025 on the Godfather, that I'm obsessed with the series or something. Not the case at all, I swear. I will say that Leave the Gun, Take the Cannoli: The Epic Story of the Making of The Godfather ended up ridiculously good (an easy five stars), and this one was an Audible Premium Plus freebie follow-up that sounded interesting. In a podcast episodic type format, there are break-downs discussing with fans, starts at times, little clips on themes. Mainly covers first movie but mentions all three. The majority of the soundbite interviews are from Pacino - speaking of which, read his Memoir Sonny Boy last year and that was also exceptional 5-star and highly recommended.

Spliced together from sections, this can get a little repetitive, especially with the movie scenes you hear, but it's lovely to hear the music so much throughout, the host has a pleasant made-for-radio voice, there's plenty of fun tidbits from actors/actresses and fans. Some is shallower, some is deeper. Recommended as an Audible Plus audiobook for fans of the movie.

Now I doubt I'll ever read a third book about the Godfather, but at this rate you never know.

[Char · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you're a fan of The Godfather, or any of the sequels, you will most likely enjoy this book.

It's actually a collection of podcasts about the film. The author is trying to answer the question of why the movie is so memorable? Why has it infiltrated nearly every aspect of American life? Why are there so many scenes in cartoons/shows/and other movies featuring quotes from the film? What is it about the movie that makes it so long lasting and beloved?

Featuring interviews with Francis Ford Coppola, Talia Shire, Pacino, DeNiro and Duval , the authors of The Godfather Doctrine, and the designer of The Godfather video game, and many others, this was a lot of fun. I guarantee you will learn something new about this classic film, even if you've seen it dozens of times like I have.

This did get a bit repetitive at times but that is mostly due to the episodes being all lumped together in this one book, but I enjoyed the hell out of it, just the same.

*Free to Audible members.*

[Christie J · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a huge fan of The Godfather franchise since I was a child. This podcast was spectacular from my perspective as a long time admirer of this incredible body of work. It’s full of interviews from those who participated in the making of the film as well as critical analyses from talented others. I think I was most blown away listening to the episode that featured the “post production sound editor.” (If you listened, you will know why this is in quotations.) I will never hear those trains in the background of the restaurant scene in the first movie the same again. This is such a treat for all who are obsessed with this incredible film series. I highly recommend it!

[Chris Howells · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am not a big fan of the movie, until I listened to this. Keegan's magnum opus is a work of brilliance. Over Eight and a half hours she takes us through many aspects of the film, beginning with the nuts and bolts of making a movie, the backstage dramas, worth a listen in themselves, to the broad influence it has had on the culture, gender and everyday life. This truly is a masterwork and I listened to it over a Twenty Four period. Its free for members and I have no hesitation in recommending it. And now I am off to buy the movie(s).

[Kevin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like diving deep into the movies. However, hearing opinions about the movie based on misunderstandings of them was troubling. Some people thought Bonasera's story told the story of immigrants and minorities getting a raw deal in America while white people are privileged. Unfortunately, Bonasera never said the boys who assaulted his daughter where white; he only said they were not Italian. People like to read into things even when the facts don't support it.

With that aside, it was fun hearing many people dissect the movie and relate what it means to them.

[A.M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Coppola had polio as a child… lay in bed with puppets, making up stories.

I found this so interesting, and as she interviews some of the original actors, editors, and sound techs there is stuff here I have not heard before.

And of course, now I want to go watch them all again. And you’ll never guess what I found at the op shop? The director’s cut boxed set. Yes! Thank you, universe.

4 stars

[Joe Kucharski · Rating 4 out of 5]

A helluva entertaining listen that any fan of The Godfather can't refuse. Packed with a ton of interviews and more sound clips than there are bullets at a tollbooth.

Mama Mia! Grab a cannoli and give this Audible Original a listen before Luca Brasi makes you a different offer. And you can take that to the mattresses!

[Chris Billing · Rating 1 out of 5]

There is enough interesting material presented to make a 45 podcast. Not 12 episodes! The rest is just filler. Everyone is entitled to have an opinion on a film they love, but why did the producers of this podcast think anyone else would be interested? Watch the film, love it or hate it, make your own mind up. There are some interesting books about The Godfather. This isn’t one of them.

[RoyceAnn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this podcast very much. This exploration of the movie was very entertaining and informative. The interviews with some of the actors, especially Pacino and the director, Coppola were fascinating. If you enjoy getting an inside look into the artistic process of film and you are familiar with The Godfather movies I think you will enjoy this. I know I did.

[James Golden · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not great. There was too much analyzing what wasn't there at all - the chapters on women and food in particular. It would have been better to hear more from Francis and the cast and crew (and of course more stories about Robert Evans.)

[bedpeace · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very interesting and informative audiobook!
Very cool how everyone has their own one word description of the Godfather. Live laugh love Francis Ford Coppola.

[Belles · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love everything about The Godfather, and this was a fun way explore it all over again.

[Suzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent look at the film from every angle. The production angst, the actors, the music, and the public--- then & now.

[Mary McNamara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Made me want to read the book and watch the films all over again.

[Millicent Flake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting audio book about the Godfather movies and the deep themes running through them. I’ve always loved the first 2 movies and rewatched them- even better!

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars.
Excellent deep dive into the movie and it's creation. It's so rich in detail, that I may want to listen to this podcast again.

[Markod0101 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed it. Some interesting insights, although I expect a lot of embellishment that has been built up over the years.

A nice tribute to an incredible movie

[Mary Tarro · Rating 4 out of 5]

Truly interesting with great narration and quotes from originals involved in all aspects of making of film.

[Toni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Never seen the movie but now I’m interested

[Betsy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is free with Audible membership.