Messages from The Godfather (Paperback)

~ Michael & Tony Moiso (Author) "Johnny Fontaine has flown in from Hollywood to be at Connie's wedding, and to make a request of his Godfather, the Don..." (more)
Key Phrases: The Scene, Italian Proverb, Moe Green (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Messages from The Godfather is a unique book that looks at 60 different messages from the film. The famous lines from the film have a hidden message behind them that are based on the Sicilian way of life. This book provides that hidden message and includes an Italian proverb that helps explain the meaning. Whether you are new to The Godfather or a devoted fan, you will enjoy this book.

From the Back Cover

EXAMPLE from the book: Italian Proverb

"One hand will not wash the other for nothing"

Una mano non lava l'altra senza compenzo The Scene The opening scene between the Don and Bonasera has reached its conclusion. In response to Bonasera's commitment to friendship, the Don grants Bonasera's request for revenge. The Don then proceeds to explain the small debt Bonasera must now shoulder. The Don explains that in providing revenge for the crimes against his daughter, Bonasera will be called upon in the future to do a service for the Family in return. The Communication The Don is making it clear that the gift of friendship comes with a price. The Message There are always strings attached.

Product Details

• Paperback: 144 pages
• Publisher: Pillar House (October 15, 2005)
• ISBN-10: 0971045364
• ISBN-13: 978-0971045361
• Product Dimensions: 6.3 x 5.2 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 4 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 2.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #1,748,514 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Proverbs with a twist, November 16, 2005

By	J. G. Malta "jgeoff.com" (Toms River, NJ USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This little gem contains 60 pertinent messages/proverbs for life ("Blood is thicker than water", "To succeed in business, you must run a tight ship"). What sets this apart is that we're learning these messages from the film classic THE GODFATHER.

The authors succinctly and accurately present and interpret sixty scenes from the movie (for instance, after Don Vito is shot, Michael tells the others that he is willing to kill Sollozzo and McCluskey); they provide a short interpretation (the Corleone's can eliminate two enemies at once); we learn the message ("You must take the shot when the target is in sight"); and, we're treated to an appropriate Italian proverb, also translated into English ("To catch two pigeons with one bean").

While we have heard most of these proverbs before, the GODFATHER connection gives them a whole new perspective. An appropriate stocking stuffer for any fan of Coppola's classic!

From the Introduction: "Not everyone will agree with the interpretations, but that is half the fun. Debating the message, both literally and figuratively, is just as enjoyable as watching the film. What is intended here is a reference book that captures everyone's favorite moment in the film. And perhaps even make you think about why that scene, or message, holds special meaning to you."

1.0 out of 5 stars So much potential, July 10, 2007

By	Lou Bortone "Online Video Branding Specialist" (NH, USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

I was so excited to find this book as I am a "Godfather" expert. (I guess you could say I'm the Godfather of Godfather books!)

In any case, it's not the author's fault that this book is shallow and falls way short of expectations. It's really due to the fact that the powers that be at Paramount wouldn't let these guys use more references from the movie. As such, the "messages" are watered down and lose their impact. Great idea, but impossible to pull off without using the movie quotes...