Michael Corleone and the Fate of Fabrizio in The Godfather
Michael Corleone and the Fate of Fabrizio in The Godfather
The complex storylines of The Godfather, particularly regarding key side characters and their interactions with Michael Corleone, have always been a subject of discussion among film enthusiasts. Conspiracies, betrayals, and dramatic resolutions often feature in this critically acclaimed series of films. One such character that has intrigued many is Fabrizio Gatto. In the iconic films, Fabrizio's fate is not explicitly shown, leaving many questions unanswered. However, in certain extended cut versions of The Godfather, Michael does make a move against Fabrizio. Let's dive deeper into the nuances of this storyline.
Background and Context
Michael Corleone, the central protagonist of The Godfather, is depicted as a calculated and brutal leader within the Corleone crime family. His rise to power is marked by strategic assassinations of those who threaten his family's interests. In the original film The Godfather, many of these assassinations are only hinted at or seen in brief visuals. Notably, one such assassination involves the use of a car bomb against a character named Fabrizio. This scene, while captivating, was later cut from the final theatrical release but can be found in extended and special edition versions of the film.
Extended Cuts and Revealing Details
Interestingly, in the extended cut of The Godfather Part II, it is revealed that Fabrizio is alive but under a new identity in America. Michael, aware of his past involvements with the Corleones, decides to eliminate him. This decision is a stark portrayal of Michael's ruthless nature and his commitment to eliminating any potential threats to his power and legacy.
The Book vs. the Films
Jean-Paul Belmondo's adaptation of The Godfather (1972) and Mario Puzo's The Godfather novel (1969) provide additional context to the relationship between Michael and Fabrizio. The book, in particular, offers a more detailed account of Michael's actions. It is mentioned that Michael does not kill all the heads of the five families, but specifically those who conspired against the Corleones. This lines up with the film's portrayal of Michael's strategy in dealing with his enemies.
Moreover, the book also highlights Michael's involvement in eliminating a few top hitmen working for his enemies. One such instance involves the assassination of Fabrizio at a pizzeria in upstate New York. This scene is not present in the movie, perhaps due to its intensity and complexity, but adds a layer of depth to Michael's character and the film's narrative.
Implications and Analysis
The removal or inclusion of scenes involving Fabrizio in the movies raises interesting questions about the director's (Francis Ford Coppola) decision-making. Coppola's choice to not depict certain assassinations in the original film might be attributed to the visual and narrative constraints of the medium. However, the extended cut of The Godfather Part II shows that there were plans to reveal more about the interactions between Michael and Fabrizio.
Michael's determination to settle all family business is evident in both the book and the extended cut of the film. This commitment to complete his vendetta against those who threaten his family's power and survival is a crucial aspect of his character development. It underscores his cold-blooded and strategic approach to maintaining his dominance in the criminal underworld.
Conclusion
The fate of Fabrizio Gatto in The Godfather is a testament to the intricate storytelling and character development in this iconic series. Whether through car bombs or acts of direct violence, Michael Corleone is portrayed as a ruthless leader who will go to great lengths to maintain his power and protect his family. The extended cuts of The Godfather further enrich our understanding of Michael's character and the complex web of relationships and betrayals that define the film's narrative.
For fans of The Godfather, exploring these additional scenes and the differences between the original films and the novel provides not only a more comprehensive view of the story but also a deeper appreciation of the characters and their motivations.
Keywords: Michael Corleone, The Godfather, Fabrizio Gatto
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