From his dynamic presence in the 70s, Al Pacino became a formidable name in Hollywood, captivating audiences with his intense performances and intricate portrayals of complex characters. The 70s marked a pivotal decade for Pacino, establishing him as a bankable star with iconic roles in films like Serpico, Dog Day Afternoon, and …And Justice for All. Yet, it was his portrayal of Michael Corleone in The Godfather that truly defined his career.
Al Pacino and The Godfather: A Casting Decision Filled with Doubts
Despite the eventual success, the journey wasn’t smooth. During the filming of The Godfather in 1972, Pacino faced immense pressure and uncertainty. As a relatively inexperienced actor at the time, Pacino struggled with director Francis Ford Coppola’s expectations, particularly in a key scene — Michael Corleone’s Sicilian wedding. Coppola’s directive for Pacino to improvise, handing out candies and dancing, was a challenge for the young actor, who admitted to not knowing how to waltz or even drive. Reflecting on these moments, Pacino humorously remarked on Instagram:
“There was this scene in The Godfather One, when Michael gets married in Sicily and he has to pass around candies, it is a tradition. And then Francis says, ‘Ok Al, you pass around the candies, you take the girl who’s your wife and you waltz and you go off in the car’. I said, ‘Francis, I don’t waltz, I don’t know how to waltz’… ‘It doesn’t matter, get in the car and take off’, I said, ‘Francis, I don’t drive’. Why did I pick him, why him?”
The Transformation of Al Pacino: From Insecurity to Iconic Performance
Despite these initial setbacks, Pacino’s portrayal of Michael Corleone evolved into a defining role of his career, showcasing his ability to convey depth and transformation convincingly. His performance not only earned him an Oscar nomination but also solidified his place in Hollywood as a serious actor. The success of The Godfather, which grossed over $250 million against a modest budget of $6 million, marked a monumental moment in film history, much attributed to Pacino’s compelling performance alongside Marlon Brando.
The Lasting Impact of The Godfather on Al Pacino’s Career
Years after the release, Pacino reflected on the impact of The Godfather on his career trajectory. In an interview with The New York Times, he shared his gratitude for the role that essentially won him the “lottery” of acting opportunities:
“At that time in my life, I didn’t have a choice. Francis wanted me. I had made the one film. And I wasn’t as interested in film to the extent that I became interested. My head was in another space. I’m here because I did The Godfather. For an actor, that’s like winning the lottery. When it comes right down to it, I had nothing to do with the film but play the part.”
Al Pacino Today: A Continuing Legacy
Beyond The Godfather, Pacino’s illustrious career has spanned across several critically acclaimed films and theatrical productions, earning him numerous awards, including two Tony Awards for his stage work. As he continues to explore diverse roles, like his upcoming part in an exorcism film with Dan Stevens, Pacino remains a significant figure in the world of acting, whose contributions continue to influence and inspire.
Al Pacino’s journey from a tentative, young actor to a revered cinematic icon underscores the unpredictable nature of filmmaking and the transformative power of resilience and dedication in the arts.