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The Annotated Godfather
This fully authorized, annotated, and illustrated edition of the complete screenplay of The Godfather presents all the little-known details and behind-the-scenes intrigue surrounding the landmark film.
The Godfather is considered by many to be the greatest movie ever made, from its brilliant cinematic innovations and its memorable, oft-quoted script to it magnificent cast, including Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, Robert Duvall, James Caan, and others who are now among the most celebrated actors of our time. And yet, the history of its making is so colorful, so chaotic, that one cannot help but marvel at the seemingly insurmountable odds it overcame to become a true cinematic masterpiece, a film that continues to captivate us decades after its release.
Now, thirty-five years after The Godfather 's highly anticipated debut, comes this fully authorized, annotated, and illustrated edition of the complete screenplay. Virtually every scene is examined
Interviews with former Paramount executives, cast and crew members -- from the producer to the makeup artist -- and director Francis Ford Coppola round out the commentary and shed new light on everything you thought you knew about this most influential film. The more than 200 photographs from the film, from behind-the-scenes, and from the cutting room floor make this a visual feast for every Godfather fan.
The Godfather is considered by many to be the greatest movie ever made, from its brilliant cinematic innovations and its memorable, oft-quoted script to it magnificent cast, including Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, Robert Duvall, James Caan, and others who are now among the most celebrated actors of our time. And yet, the history of its making is so colorful, so chaotic, that one cannot help but marvel at the seemingly insurmountable odds it overcame to become a true cinematic masterpiece, a film that continues to captivate us decades after its release.
Now, thirty-five years after The Godfather 's highly anticipated debut, comes this fully authorized, annotated, and illustrated edition of the complete screenplay. Virtually every scene is examined
Interviews with former Paramount executives, cast and crew members -- from the producer to the makeup artist -- and director Francis Ford Coppola round out the commentary and shed new light on everything you thought you knew about this most influential film. The more than 200 photographs from the film, from behind-the-scenes, and from the cutting room floor make this a visual feast for every Godfather fan.
264 pages, Paperback
First published October 18, 2007
82 people are currently reading
432 people want to read
About the author
Jenny M. Jones
2 booksJenny M. Jones is also the author of "The Big Lebowski: An Illustrated, Annotated History of the Greatest Cult Film of All Time." She learned about movies working at the Northwest Film Center, the Walker Art Center, and the late, great Oak Street Cinema. She currently lives in Minneapolis with her daughter, Maddie.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
November 30, 2021
"'Go to the mattresses.' It's from 'The Godfather.' It means you have to go to war . . . Well, [this movie] is the I Ching. 'The Godfather' is THE sum of all wisdom. 'The Godfather' is THE answer to any question. What should I pack for my summer vacation? 'Leave the gun, take the cannoli.' What day of the week is it? 'Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Wednesday.' And the answer to YOUR question is 'Go to the mattresses.'" -- Tom Hanks' character in You've Got Mail, on the film's memorable and/or advice-worthy dialogue
Just in time for the celebrated film's 50th (!) anniversary next year - note the gold tinting now being used for the cover art - comes a reissue of the 2007 book The Annotated Godfather. Boasting the full and finalized shooting script - what was said / seen in the completed product, that is - along with hundreds of rare or behind-the-scenes photographs, information on deleted scenes, detailed one-page essays on the actors, and interviews with some of the cast and crew, this was an excellent tribute to / recollection of a film that was a 'triple-threat' of a box office dynamo, critical success, AND Best Picture winner (which has become somewhat of a rare animal these days in Hollywood) way back in 1972. Much recommended for admirers of this film, or of movie-making in general.
Just in time for the celebrated film's 50th (!) anniversary next year - note the gold tinting now being used for the cover art - comes a reissue of the 2007 book The Annotated Godfather. Boasting the full and finalized shooting script - what was said / seen in the completed product, that is - along with hundreds of rare or behind-the-scenes photographs, information on deleted scenes, detailed one-page essays on the actors, and interviews with some of the cast and crew, this was an excellent tribute to / recollection of a film that was a 'triple-threat' of a box office dynamo, critical success, AND Best Picture winner (which has become somewhat of a rare animal these days in Hollywood) way back in 1972. Much recommended for admirers of this film, or of movie-making in general.
August 10, 2019
I always enjoy the opportunity to learn more about my favorite movies. When this opportunity was bundled with the chance to take a peek at the actual screenplay as well, my little aspiring screenwriter heart was singing. I have no idea if I read the actual screenplay or not...the formatting was adjusted to fit into a book, so it looked different 🤔. But the content was enjoyable to read. There were fun little production anecdotes, some deleted scenes included in later cuts of the films, production stills. It was a nice, light read, and considering how heavy some of my other summer reads have been, I appreciated this break.
November 7, 2025
A must read for any student of the craft.
February 10, 2014
This is a beautifully edited book. It has all the information you will ever want about Godfather 1st Part. Pictures in every page; very elegant and informative text on the sides; nice print size; the full movie script; brief bios of the main actors. It's got it all. The non plus ultra for Godfather fans.
The information is given very friendly-like, not like from a hyper-fanatic, but restrained, and from one who knows the kind of details that will interest most of us readers.
The price is also unbeatable, at least right now, so buy it now or never. I hope they will do another like this for the second part. The closest thing to watching the movie itself.
The information is given very friendly-like, not like from a hyper-fanatic, but restrained, and from one who knows the kind of details that will interest most of us readers.
The price is also unbeatable, at least right now, so buy it now or never. I hope they will do another like this for the second part. The closest thing to watching the movie itself.
December 27, 2014
A great re-production of the screenplay that incorporates the entire movie including ad-libs while explaining parts that were in the original script that did not make it to the screen. Some of these written moments were shot and used in TV versions of the movie. Also along the way the author gives you some backstory on how or why certain things were chosen during the production. You also get some trivia on the actors, including the family and friends that showed up as extras at the wedding. A pleasant and quick read for anyone who is a fan of the film.
September 28, 2016
This hardback beast of a book is a real beauty.
The COMPLETE shooting screenplay for Coppola's masterwork The Godfather is supplemented by continuous text, notes, illustrations, storyboards, interviews and anecdotes from cast and crew. Not only is it a glorious celebration of the Mafia epic, it is a nuts and bolts schematic for how the movie came to be.
It truly is an offer you shouldn't refuse!
The COMPLETE shooting screenplay for Coppola's masterwork The Godfather is supplemented by continuous text, notes, illustrations, storyboards, interviews and anecdotes from cast and crew. Not only is it a glorious celebration of the Mafia epic, it is a nuts and bolts schematic for how the movie came to be.
It truly is an offer you shouldn't refuse!
July 20, 2023
i flipped through this on the floor in a barnes and noble does this count ?
December 8, 2022
Without question one of my favourite screenplays of all-time, I’d probably go as far as to say Top 2. Mario Puzo and Francis Ford Coppola’s timeless masterpiece is presented with care, detail and attention in this fine 50th Anniversary edition of Jenny M. Jones’ The Annotated Godfather. What makes this script even more of a page turner, within the confines of this particular book, are the frequent tidbits of information surrounding each scene of the movie, ideally placed in the margins of the screenplay. From the cutting room floor to goofs, gaffes and blunders, from behind-the-scenes tricks of the trade to actor profiles, we are treated to moments of insight that only serve to enhance this chef-d'oeuvre of moviemaking. As for the baptism segment, well there’s nothing quite like reading it from the written page. Pure quality.
November 9, 2022
Reading this screenplay was so inspiring for me, and a tremendously helpful study as I'm sitting here writing a corruption arc screenplay of my own.
It was also interesting reading the behind-the-scenes tidbits about how this movie was made, and all the ridiculous drama that nearly derailed production numerous times. Some of the behind-the-scenes info was granular and over-the-top, I'll admit; I didn't read every single part. I can't imagine being that obsessed with someone else's movie, lol.
But yeah, learned a lot from this. Very interesting!
It was also interesting reading the behind-the-scenes tidbits about how this movie was made, and all the ridiculous drama that nearly derailed production numerous times. Some of the behind-the-scenes info was granular and over-the-top, I'll admit; I didn't read every single part. I can't imagine being that obsessed with someone else's movie, lol.
But yeah, learned a lot from this. Very interesting!
December 23, 2020
You must have this book if you are obsessed with "The Godfather" (the first film, not the sequels). It provides the whole script, with extra scenes that were cut or not filmed, plus loads and loads of trivia and behind-the-scenes information.
Remove a star if you're not obsessed with "The Godfather". Then it's only four stars and worth your time to read, but maybe not own.
If you are not even into movies ... well, skip it. But there's something wrong with you.
Remove a star if you're not obsessed with "The Godfather". Then it's only four stars and worth your time to read, but maybe not own.
If you are not even into movies ... well, skip it. But there's something wrong with you.
June 20, 2021
this had some cool insights and facts - good god making movies in Old Hollywood was stressful - but i mainly appreciated it because next time i watch the godfather i will now be able to understand everything that’s going on. i’ve seen it twice and both times, significant chunks of the movie were lost on me.
November 25, 2024
عکس زیاد داشت و توضیحات اضافه تری که خیلی به درک بهتر فیلم کمک میکنه.
همچنین راجع به بازیگرها هم اطلاعات خوبی در دسترس قرار میده.
یک بار باید میخوندمش، بار دوم دیگه نمیخواد.
همچنین راجع به بازیگرها هم اطلاعات خوبی در دسترس قرار میده.
یک بار باید میخوندمش، بار دوم دیگه نمیخواد.
July 28, 2025
This is a review of the 50th anniversary edition of this book, not the original 2007 printing.
The only reason this isn't a 5-star review is because this book is NOT the actual shooting script of THE GODFATHER, which was a collaboration between the author, Mario Puzo, and the director, Francis Ford Coppola. While the book does use the shooting script as its starting point (most likely for stage directions and camera moves), the movie pretty famously has unscripted ad-libs among its most famous lines (like Richard Castellano's "Leave the gun -- take the cannoli"), or scenes written by Coppola on the fly. The shooting script also contained at least a dozen scenes that were filmed, edited, scored... and then deleted. If you're more than a novice fan of THE GODFATHER, then you've already watched these deleted scenes (most of them involving James Caan) on the DVD releases or on YouTube. But the editor of this volume does NOT include all those deleted scenes in the book... even though they were part of the shooting script.
In spite of the length of the above paragraph, this concern of mine is not a fatal concern. Even a transcript of THE GODFATHER, which is what this book is, is a phenomenal book, because the script (and last-minute rewrites and ad-libs) is so phenomenal. Interestingly, Robert Towne's famous scene, Don Vito handing over power to Michael, which was reportedly written the night before shooting, closely mirrors a deleted scene found elsewhere in the book.
The book is also peppered with essays and side notes detailing cast notes, bloopers and flubs, production details, and other fascinating trivia, along with a treasure trove of pictures. It's definitely a must-have for your GODFATHER collection. Take it... along with the cannoli.
The only reason this isn't a 5-star review is because this book is NOT the actual shooting script of THE GODFATHER, which was a collaboration between the author, Mario Puzo, and the director, Francis Ford Coppola. While the book does use the shooting script as its starting point (most likely for stage directions and camera moves), the movie pretty famously has unscripted ad-libs among its most famous lines (like Richard Castellano's "Leave the gun -- take the cannoli"), or scenes written by Coppola on the fly. The shooting script also contained at least a dozen scenes that were filmed, edited, scored... and then deleted. If you're more than a novice fan of THE GODFATHER, then you've already watched these deleted scenes (most of them involving James Caan) on the DVD releases or on YouTube. But the editor of this volume does NOT include all those deleted scenes in the book... even though they were part of the shooting script.
In spite of the length of the above paragraph, this concern of mine is not a fatal concern. Even a transcript of THE GODFATHER, which is what this book is, is a phenomenal book, because the script (and last-minute rewrites and ad-libs) is so phenomenal. Interestingly, Robert Towne's famous scene, Don Vito handing over power to Michael, which was reportedly written the night before shooting, closely mirrors a deleted scene found elsewhere in the book.
The book is also peppered with essays and side notes detailing cast notes, bloopers and flubs, production details, and other fascinating trivia, along with a treasure trove of pictures. It's definitely a must-have for your GODFATHER collection. Take it... along with the cannoli.
January 28, 2025
Brilliant.
The Godfather screenplay complete with notes on production and interesting historical facts about the movie, cast and crew.
I’ve watched the movie and read the book and this is the perfect link between the two. The pure, unadulterated screenplay would be interesting enough but what makes this so enthralling is the production notes and other interesting facts about the movie. Some great lesser-known events, often from the mouths of people like Francis Ford Coppola and Marlon Brando themselves.
An absolute must-read, especially for students of classic cinema.
The Godfather screenplay complete with notes on production and interesting historical facts about the movie, cast and crew.
I’ve watched the movie and read the book and this is the perfect link between the two. The pure, unadulterated screenplay would be interesting enough but what makes this so enthralling is the production notes and other interesting facts about the movie. Some great lesser-known events, often from the mouths of people like Francis Ford Coppola and Marlon Brando themselves.
An absolute must-read, especially for students of classic cinema.
February 3, 2021
Anti-Native Error
I so enjoyed this book until the author made an extremely grave factual error about Sacheen Littlefeather who IS Native (White Mountain Apache) and an extremely respected member of the Native community. To state that she was merely an actress paid to be Native for a night is a slap in the face to all Native filmmakers and extremely irresponsible and grossly anti-Native.
I so enjoyed this book until the author made an extremely grave factual error about Sacheen Littlefeather who IS Native (White Mountain Apache) and an extremely respected member of the Native community. To state that she was merely an actress paid to be Native for a night is a slap in the face to all Native filmmakers and extremely irresponsible and grossly anti-Native.
August 6, 2020
Amazing Insight
The script, annotations and trivia make for an interesting read. Almost felt like you were on set. Highly recommended to anyone interested in movie making or script writing.
The script, annotations and trivia make for an interesting read. Almost felt like you were on set. Highly recommended to anyone interested in movie making or script writing.
July 25, 2022
Reading this immediately following reading The Godfather gives the best demonstration of the genius of Francis Ford Coppola
His ability to tease the best of the best parts of The Godfather book while eliminating excess and waste is phenomenal
If you are a huge Godfather fan this is stand alone if not you probably want to read up or watch up on the background
His ability to tease the best of the best parts of The Godfather book while eliminating excess and waste is phenomenal
If you are a huge Godfather fan this is stand alone if not you probably want to read up or watch up on the background
May 23, 2017
Not so much "annotated" as it is interrupted with relatively insignificant information. It's a bit like those annoying "pop-up videos" that were popular several years ago...
November 7, 2017
An interesting "behind the scenes" look at how this great movie came to be.
February 11, 2018
interesting !
January 23, 2019
Very cool stories and insights.
August 8, 2020
Great book. It has got some of the finest details of Coppola's thinking and choices while making the movie.
November 2, 2021
a must for fans of this masterpiece - lots of great behind the scenes details and production facts
January 3, 2023
Riveting reading for anyone who loves the movie (which should be anyone who loves movies). Excellent blend of actor profiles, behind-the-scenes tidbits, production notes, and context.
March 8, 2025
I’d like to have a Godfather of my own someday.
July 1, 2025
Interesting back stories on the development of the film version of the novel.
Read
August 11, 2025Another screenplay I slowly read over the years while screenwriting is done! Hopefully I don't read the next one as slowly as these two 😅
September 3, 2023
A superb book. I wish there was a book about Godfather II.
October 24, 2014
This is a great read for any fan of the film "The Godfather". Included with the screenplay are deleted scenes from the film, along with blurbs in the margins about scenes that were filmed but omitted (and if they were included in the various Godfather Trilogy/Saga edits), scenes from the novel that never made it, decision made by producers or director, tidbits about the actors. The book is peppered with photographs - some from the movie, some from the production. A personal favorite would be James Caan after the filming of Sonny's death, covered in blood and casually smoking a cigarrete on set.
It's a quick read - about as fast as watching the film - but there's a lot of information that will stick with you and teach you about the process of bringing a book to film.
It's a quick read - about as fast as watching the film - but there's a lot of information that will stick with you and teach you about the process of bringing a book to film.
November 18, 2023
A book that no Godfather fan should refuse. The Godfather is one of the greatest movies of all time. The performances, the music, story, details, the characters and so many quotable moments make this 1972 movie easily one of the best movies. When I saw this book, I decided to get it. I wanted to know the behind the scenes of making the movie. Vito Corleone is a serious man, but Marlon Brando was the opposite. He and the other actors did pranks and joked around quite a bit. For such a serious movie, it was nice to see the actors had some fun. The commentary on each page provides interesting tidbits about the movie. Francis Ford Coppola really did an outstanding job taking the best parts of Mario Puzo's book and improving the story. I hope a book comes out for Part II.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews