“The Godfather,” released in 1972, is often hailed as one of the most exceptional and influential movies ever produced, although not all participants shared this sentiment during filming. Directed by Francis Ford Coppola and based on Mario Puzo’s acclaimed 1969 novel, the American crime drama featured a renowned cast including Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, and Diane Keaton.

Al Pacino, now 86 years old, initially harbored doubts about the project’s success, fearing it would be a disaster for his career, especially after a challenging shoot for the opening wedding scene. Following a day of filming, Pacino and Keaton were so convinced of the movie’s failure that they returned to Manhattan and indulged in alcohol, declaring it as the worst film ever made.

Paramount executives were also skeptical of Pacino’s performance, considering replacing him due to perceived lack of intensity in portraying Michael Corleone. However, opinions changed after Pacino’s remarkable portrayal in the iconic Italian restaurant scene, where he convinced the studio to keep him onboard, leading “The Godfather” to become a cinematic masterpiece.

Despite his initial reservations, Pacino’s role in the film catapulted him to Hollywood stardom and earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. “The Godfather” is currently ranked as the number one film of all time on Rotten Tomatoes in 2026 and holds the second spot on IMDb’s Top 250 list, while being recognized as the second-greatest American film by the American Film Institute.

Critics praise the movie for its exceptional storytelling, cinematography, and direction, with particular acclaim for Gordon Willis’s lighting and Nino Rota’s score. The film won three Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Marlon Brando.

Despite some detractors labeling it as the worst movie ever made, many defenders argue for its greatness, citing Al Pacino’s outstanding performance and the film’s enduring impact on cinema.