Director Francis Ford Coppola is perhaps best known for realizing Mario Puzo’s romantic, epic crime drama, The Godfather. It remains one of the most impactful dramas of all time, and nothing less than historic. However, Coppola has always proven to boast extraordinary range.
And from his smallest, quirky films, to those classic blockbusters, they are each heavily stylish and immersive. There is an auteur’s touch, though each methodical approach feels utterly appropriate. It’s clear with every endeavor, that Coppola always invests in projects that will earn his genuine enthusiasm. Fortunately, he surrounds himself with equally ambitious artists and actors, resulting in countless iconic hits.
Tucker: The Man And His Dream - 6.9
Inspired by a unique true story, Jeff Bridges is allowed to flaunt his relatable charisma. The sweeping, exaggerated style of the film’s music and visuals mold a captivating, convincing setting.
The titular man was so illustrious, some of the opening minutes are outlandish enough to feel comedic. And ultimately, the film carries the spirit of the historical figure, adventurous and flamboyant, and certainly briskly paced. The sheer ambition of the protagonist is infectious and admirable, and the all-star cast makes every character compelling.
The Outsiders - 7.1
This unexpectedly touching little film absolutely demands that you remember a particular song about “Gloria”. But in all sincerity, it’s yet another endearing, searing character piece, this time involving two young gangs. There are legitimate consequences, and the story also boils down to complicated growing pains.
The backdrop feels absolutely tangible throughout, thanks to the cinematography and music. But it’s the cast that really breathes life into the setting. Once again, Coppola has assembled numerous actors that became high-profile movie stars.
Rumble Fish - 7.2
This film wasn’t just a return to Oklahoma, but an extended stay. It doubles down on every endeavor and theme from The Outsiders, as well as the artistic boldness. Instead of outright verisimilitude, this film is especially symbolic and experimental.
The film uses black and white, seemingly an allusion to Motorcycle Boy’s color blindness. It casts overt visual themes and allows Coppola to fashion very deliberate shots. And even the music is quite unlike most soundtracks, both daring and strange. This is a compelling, underrated gem with even more brilliant actors.
The Rainmaker - 7.2
Some authors simply have a comprehensively bankable name, and John Grisham is one of them. Like Stephen King or Michael Crichton, nearly all of Grisham’s works have been adapted into film. And that distinct familiarity with the world of lawyers allows his exciting plots to be grounded in convincing realism.
However, this film simply reviews a lawyer’s career through the prism of a series of cases. Still, thanks to sharp writing and convincing performances, it’s a fascinating evolution. The ethical themes are intriguing, and the legal battles are certainly poignant.
Bram Stoker's Dracula - 7.4
The ultimate homage to classic Hammer Horror films, complete with gorgeous sets, unabashed sexuality and blood. The lovestruck, elderly Dracula may be disappointing for some, but Gary Oldman’s performance remains absolutely chilling where necessary.
Keanu Reeves is a dedicated actor who's completed his own stunts, but he was infamously uncomfortable with his accent here, and unfortunately feels out of place. But the music is enthralling, and the practical effects are utterly mesmerizing. There is a distinct passion for old-school filmmaking in that approach, and it pays off as CGI continues to age poorly.
The Godfather: Part III - 7.6
An excellent crime film, on its own. Sadly, it will forever live in the shadow of its predecessors, which are nigh impossible to match. Further, the casting decisions were likely detrimental to some of the new, occasionally uninteresting characters. The romance between Andy Garcia and Sofia Coppola is unsettling, and their performances just aren’t up to par with the surrounding cast.
This film operates best when unfolding Michael’s point of view. His ascending pursuit of legitimacy, and abandonment of crime, is an organic evolution of his story. His relationship with Kate and their children is definitely engaging. But most of all, Michael’s guilt and overall suffering are made truly moving by Al Pacino’s brilliant talent.
The Conversation - 7.8
This nifty thriller is some kind of homage to classic Hitchcock themes, particularly concerning the costly world of voyeurism. The protagonist is a surveillance expert, who is actually an obsessively private person. The slower pacing will be difficult for some, especially modern audiences. But this is the Gene Hackman show, and he always delivers.
Hackman makes his hero relatable without the familiar to lean on, like romance or friendships. Instead, viewers root for the character because of his quirks, skills and determination. And the plot boasts more than enough mystery for the audience to remain glued.
Apocalypse Now - 8.4
This is easily one of the most iconic, poignant, and deeply unsettling films about war ever made. It is a psychological thriller about a man confronting himself, his deepest fears and traumas. The protagonist must track down a rogue soldier in the wilderness.
And even with the smallest amount of screen time, Marlon Brando is compelling. He is disturbing, exciting, and interesting, omnipresent even off screen. But the bureaucratic effort to control him is just one of many ethical arguments which the film explores, and leaves terrifyingly ambiguous. This was an outrageously ambitious movie, which is technically, artistically and thematically profound.
The Godfather: Part II - 9.0
This film succeeded in the daunting task of continuing The Godfather, which is still argued for cinema’s crowning achievement. The Corleone saga is punctuated by sophisticated storytelling, artwork and performances. There is an extraordinary balance of intensely realistic drama and criminal thrills.
Once again, the turbulent personal relationships are fascinating, even while characters move about on a chessboard played with lives. The parallel with the past, and Corleone’s dark descent into murdering family, are endlessly stirring and provocative.
The Godfather - 9.2
The titular role is possibly Marlon Brando’s most iconic performance, despite his extensively beloved filmography. And Coppola’s visionary film boldly captures a tangible mafia world through violence, tragedy, and humanity. Michael’s steady rise to power, which evolves so naturally, actually dismays Vito at the onset. Santino’s impulsive behavior and unchecked temper have disastrous consequences.
The familial drama and terrifying crime are a perfect pair, and weave an intricate web of escalation that is unanimously acclaimed. The mammoth task of adapting such an elaborate novel succeeds through a perfect storm of vision, acting and technical craft. This movie feels like a dense, lively and enriching book.