The 1970s were a rough time for many people after WWII and the rise of the Cold War. With that film changed its perspectives to be more violent, paranoid society being scared, teens rebelling while losing their innocence, and changing of society's views on civil rights. The film "The Godfather," released in 1972 and directed by Francis Ford Coppola, is considered one of the greatest films in American cinematic history. While it primarily tells the story of the Corleone crime family, it offers some insights into the broader societal and cultural changes in the United States during the post-World War II period and the early years of the Cold War.
Violent and Paranoid Society after WWII and during the Cold War:
- The film is set in the aftermath of World War II, and it reflects a society where violence is a recurring theme. The mobsters in the film operate outside the law and resort to extreme violence as a means to an end. This mirrors the paranoia and violence that was prevalent during the Cold War era when the United States and the Soviet Union were engaged in a tense standoff with the constant threat of nuclear war.
Rise in Rebelliousness and loss of innocence:
- The characters in "The Godfather" often grapple with the loss of innocence. Michael Corleone, in particular, starts as a war hero who initially wants nothing to do with his family's criminal activities but is eventually drawn into the world of organized crime. This loss of innocence can be seen as a reflection of the broader societal changes occurring in the 1960s and 1970s, where there was a rise in rebelliousness among young adults. The counterculture movement, anti-establishment sentiment, and the rejection of traditional values were prevalent during this era, as symbolized by the youth protest movements of the 1960s.
Changing Sentiment around Civil Rights:
- "The Godfather" doesn't directly address civil rights issues, but it is set in a time when the civil rights movement was gaining momentum. The film takes place in New York, and it's implied that organized crime had influence and dealings with politicians and law enforcement. This reflects a broader sentiment of societal corruption and inequality, including racial discrimination and civil rights issues.
While "The Godfather" primarily focuses on the criminal underworld and the Corleone family's rise to power, it can be seen as a microcosm of the larger societal changes and challenges that the United States underwent during the post-World War II period. The film's portrayal of violence, the loss of innocence, and corruption can be seen as indicative of the complex and changing landscape of American society during the mid-20th century.
Yes, you are correct this film is pretty much a mirror for extreme violence and crime that had become so prevalent at the time, even though this was the Vietnam War era, more than WWII era, grotesque death and violence filled the TV screens and Americans returning from war with trauma was prevalent. The film also has themes of family and loyalty, but for the most part is 'poetic violence'. I like the format of this blog post, it's easy and clear to read and digest, nice job. Thanks for linking the trailer, too!
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