"The Godfather" - The Opening Scene Quiz

Answer:

Mario Puzo wrote the novel "The Godfather" which told the story of the Corleone family and their move from Italy to the United States. Under the direction of Francis Ford Coppola and an all-star cast including Al Pacino, James Caan, and Marlon Brando the motion picture become an all-time movie classic. The film's opening sequence contrasted a lively wedding reception outside and transitioned to a dark room where we first meet Don Corleone as played by actor Marlon Brando.

In the opening scene of "The Godfather", an Italian undertaker named Amerigo Bonasera approaches Don Corleone in his private room. The scene was set on day of Don Corleone's daughter's wedding ceremony held at his New York mansion. In the darkened room with the curtains drawn, we see Amerigo approach the Don and describe what happened to his daughter, Maria. Bonasera wanted justice for his daughter who had been violated by two American boys. The assault led to the boys being arrested but a judge let them free. Amerigo knew that the justice system had failed his daughter and he wanted revenge. Amerigo knew that Don Corleone had the power to rectify the situation.

While Amerigo Bonasera's speech was an earnest appeal, it was the first time he had ever approached Don Corleone and didn't even respectfully address him as The Don. In addition, he asked Corleone's help on a day of fun and celebration. Corleone replied, "You never wanted my friendship... and now you ask me to do murder for money." Amerigo asked for Corleone's friendship and was granted his wish. But Don Corleone told him that one day, he would ask for Amerigo's service at a future time.