Lessons on power from Don Vito Corleone
Story by Miquel Echarri •
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Marlon Brando as Vito Corleone in ‘The Godfather’ (1972), by Francis Ford Coppola.
Marlon Brando as Vito Corleone in ‘The Godfather’ (1972), by Francis Ford Coppola.
© John Springer Collection (Corbis /Getty Images)
In one of the most memorable moments of the animated series Family Guy, the Griffins are about to die and Peter, the bereaved patriarch, decides to tell his family one last secret: “I did not care for The Godfather.” His wife and children remind him that it is a masterpiece, a visual poem, “the great American tragedy.”
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If the joke works, it’s because (almost) everyone likes The Godfather. Coppola’s trilogy is one of those cultural artifacts that generates a rare consensus, a popular classic that is at the same time fodder for cinephiles, an instant hit that maintains its reputation intact five decades later. Alberto Mayol, a sociologist, political scientist and writer, has also found both the films and Mario Puzo’s novel offer a tool for reflection and learning. The Godfather, he argues, is “a crash course in power: how to get it, keep it, increase it, and wield it.” It is demonstrated in the unbiased, amoral prowess of Vito Corleone and his son Michael, heir to his empire.
Mayol is currently promoting the Spanish edition of The 50 Laws of Power in The Godfather, an illuminating document for that silent majority that has never reflected on the nature of power and, therefore, is condemned to suffer from it. Looking back, the author remembers that he came into contact with the film saga in 1990, when the third installment was released in Chile: “My uncle insisted that we go see it, even though I was a minor. His argument, scandalous for the orderly child that I was at the time, was that in order to really enjoy a film like this, you first have to break a law.”
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Years later, Mayol would surprise himself by returning again and again to sequences like the one with the horse’s head between the silky sheets of a Hollywood producer, finding in them “a very profound reflection, by no means trivial, on that mythological god that we call power, which is behind almost all social relations, not just in politics.” That intuition gave rise to a popular series of seminars on The Godfather and an even more popular podcast, La Cosa Nostra, which grew and spread its tentacles during the pandemic. And from there was born the book.
During the opening day of his seminar, Mayol used to say, jokingly, that his is “an essentially right-wing analytical method, because it starts from the most stark pragmatism.” He cites specific examples to unravel the inexorable Corleone logic, and he reaches revealing conclusions: “Don Vito always exercised power without inhibitions, but with good sense and moderation.” His best students would have to be found in the conservative spectrum, in Winston Churchill, Giulio Andreotti and Angela Merkel, as well as in the back rooms of such formidable and opaque nuclei of power as “the CIA, the Vatican or the boards of directors of multinationals.” The western left, in his opinion, “does not generate leaders, because it has gotten stuck in a discourse of resistance to power that condemns it to ineffectiveness.” The same could be said of the bulk of the citizens of communitarian Europe, “herbivores in a world of carnivores,” some of them as voracious as Vladimir Putin, “who not only poison their opponents, but want it to be known.”
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The Godfather trilogy remains one of the most iconic movie franchises of the 20th century, renowned for its intricate plots and lasting cinematic brilliance.
The impeccable casting featured a stellar ensemble of actors and actresses including Al Pacino, Marlon Brando, Diane Keaton, and Robert Duvall. Beyond the exceptional acting, the trilogy contains some of the most quintessential visual styles of the era. The Godfather films also spawned enduring quotes that continue to resonate today, even though the first Godfather movie came out over 50 years ago. This article will delve into the most memorable quotes from The Godfather trilogy, identifying their speakers, and more.
In assembling a collection of the most famous quotes from "The Godfather,” 24/7 Tempo referenced various entertainment sources, including clips from The Godfather movies on YouTube and IMDb. (Here is a list of the greatest movie sequels of all time.)
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Don Corleone's iconic quotes from The Godfather have solidified his status as one of the most recognizable movie characters of all time.
Don Corleone is a complex character, displaying both wisdom and darker aspects, and his quotes offer insight into his mindset and values.
The Godfather movies owe much of their praise and cultural impact to Marlon Brando's unforgettable portrayal of Don Corleone and his inimitable delivery of the character's quotes.
Don Corleone quotes from The Godfather have added to his status as one of the most iconic and instantly recognizable movie characters of all time. Whether mimicking his famous jawline or his distinctive raspy voice, Vito Corleone is easy to imitate thanks to how clearly defined Marlon Brando makes the character, although Robert De Niro in the film's sequel certainly did Brando's timeless performance justice. Many of the best Don Corleone quotes from The Godfather have become cemented into popular culture, and this is thanks in no small part to Brando's inimitable delivery.
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While certainly a reprehensible character in many respects, Don Corleone is also undeniably wise and incredibly intelligent, eventually helping the Corleone family to achieve victory over their enemies. Some Don Corleone quotes offer sound life advice, others hint at the darker side of the character, and others highlight how important family is to him. Looking at his most memorable quotes is a reminder of the complexity that makes Don Corleone such an iconic character in cinema history — and arguably a key reason the Godfather movies are so lauded.
The Godfather is available to stream on Showtime.
Related: Every Godfather Movie Ranked From Worst To Best
"I Have A Sentimental Weakness For My Children, And I Spoil Them, As You Can See. They Talk When They Should Listen."
Don Corleone Silences Sonny
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Many of the awful things that happened in The Godfather might have been averted if Sonny Corleone (James Caan) had learned to control himself. During the first meeting with Virgil Sollozzo (Al Lettieri), Vito turned down his proposal to go into business, but Sonny interrupted when he thought the Tattaglias would guarantee their potential investment and Vito swiftly silenced him. Sonny is a tough man, but Vito reduces Sonny to an embarrassed child with this demeaning explanation to Sollozzo. Vito is not a man who raises his voice often, but he is able to command total authority with his gentle tone.
RELATED: How Old Marlon Brando Was In The Godfather (Compared To Don Corleone)
"Never Tell Anyone Outside the Family What You’re Thinking."
Don Corleone Warns About Talking Too Much
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Sonny Corleone looking intently at something off-camera in The Godfather.
Sonny Corleone looking intently at something off-camera in The Godfather.
© Provided by ScreenRant
While Don Corleone humiliates Sonny in the middle of the meeting, the verbal put-down was not enough of a reprimand in his mind. He then lectures Sonny on how he opened himself up too much while in the presence of outsiders. It is a compelling quote that offers some interesting insight into Vito as a crime boss. Seeing how he reacts to Sonny's excitable outburst gives new context to his quiet and reserved behavior. Vito doesn't want to give his potential enemies any more information than he needs to, keeping everything closed off. It also shows that, in Vito's mind, anyone who is not in the family is a potential threat.
"That Is Not Justice, Your Daughter Is Still Alive."
Don Corleone Turns Down Bonasera's Plea For Vengeance
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Vito Corleone meeting with Bonesara in The Godfather
Vito Corleone meeting with Bonesara in The Godfather
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In contrast to the rashness of Sonny Corneole's short-lived era, Don Vito is shown to be a very wise authority figure. This is quickly shown in his introductory scene, in which Vito declines the request of Amerigo Bonasera (Salvatore Corsitto) to kill the men who attacked his daughter. Though Vito's rationale may seem cold, there is a logic behind it. Vito is a man who operates in a violent business, but he understands that violence without cause is bad for business. It is a rational and humane view that sets the stage for how dramatically the family business and its ideals will change once Vito is no longer the one in charge.
"You Can Act Like A Man! What's The Matter With You?"
Don Corleone Sets Johnny Straight
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Vito Corleone talking to Johnny Fontane in The Godfather
Vito Corleone talking to Johnny Fontane in The Godfather
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When his godson Johnny Fontane (Al Martino) came to him for help in acquiring a movie role, Vito wasn’t in the mood to see the man blubbering before him. Suddenly springing up, Vito yelled in Johnny’s face to take charge of the situation rather than wallow in his sorrows and come to him like a child. Johnny was clearly playing the situation up to gain sympathy, but it was also obvious that Vito understood this, which was why he was so harsh with his godson. Vito would do anything for his family except play the fool. This Don Corneole quote is a rare show of emotion from the man, showing how little he tolerates such behavior.
"Whoever Comes To You With This Barzini Meeting, He's The Traitor. Don't Forget That."
Don Corleone Offers Michael A Final Piece Of Advice
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Vito Corleone talking to Michael in The Godfather
Vito Corleone talking to Michael in The Godfather
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By the time Michael (Al Pacino) had been placed as the head of the Corleone family, the situation was dire for the main characters. Michael was clearly being set up to be assassinated, but the remaining family had no idea who it would be to betray them and seal his fate. Even though he was near death by then, Vito can still read the situation and offers Michael the advice that saves his life. This The Godfather quote represents a bittersweet moment of Vito accepting that Michael is going down a criminal path, but ensuring that he can do all that he can to help him succeed as the new don.
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RELATED: Every Mobster Who Betrayed Michael Corleone In The Godfather
"I Never Wanted This For You."
Don Corleone Sees Michael Take Over
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The final scene between Vito and Michael is a quiet yet powerful one that sets up so much for the rest of the movie and the Godfather franchise. As the two men acknowledge the danger ahead that Michael will have to deal with, Vito admits to Michael that he wanted something better for his son than this criminal life. While he knew Sonny and Fredo were destined to follow him, he thought Michael could be something more prestigious or important. It is a realization for the man who is close to death that he failed his son and the legacy he had in mind for the Corleone family which is made more heartbreaking given the dark path Michael goes down.
"Now You Come To Me And You Say, 'Don Corleone, Give Me Justice.' But You Don't Ask With Respect, You Don't Offer Friendship."
Don Corleone Demands Respect
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Vito Corleone talking to Bonasera in The Godfather
Vito Corleone talking to Bonasera in The Godfather
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Part of the reason why Vito doesn't give Bonasera any leeway in their discussion at the beginning of the movie is that this is Bonasera's first real interaction with the Don, and it is to ask him to commit an act that Bonasera would not do himself. It's frequently stated through The Godfather that Vito Corleone's real power is his political pull, meaning that he understands the power of leverage, favors, and respect above all else. When he senses that Bonasera has no respect for him, and views him simply as a common criminal, he knows that he has to set the record straight before they can move forward.
"We’re Not Murderers in Spite of What This Undertaker Thinks."
Don Corleone Is Insulted By Bonasera
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Don Corleone wearing a suit and sitting in The Godfather.
Don Corleone wearing a suit and sitting in The Godfather.
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Don Corleone has built an empire and taken a seat of power for himself, but while there are those who come to him looking for help, he still seems to resent the world seeing him as a criminal. After Bonasera leaves his office, he continues to show that he is insulted by the request to murder his daughter's attackers, dismissing Bonasera as a mere "undertaker" yet showing that the insinuation wounded him. It speaks to the way Vito had bigger plans for his family, especially Michael, hoping that there would be a day when the Corleone name would be one that commanded respect instead of just fear.
RELATED: The Godfather Cast Guide: Where Are They Now
"It Doesn't Make Any Difference To Me What A Man Does For A Living. But Your Business, Is... A Little Dangerous."
Don Corleone Stays Out Of The Drug Business
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Vito Corleone talking to Sollozzo in The Godfather
Vito Corleone talking to Sollozzo in The Godfather
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The main conflict with The Godfather stems from Vito's refusal to go into business with Sollozzo and to deal with drugs in general, effectively keeping the Corleones in what many of the other bosses see as the past. Although Tom Hagen (Robert Duvall) and Sonny attempted to tell Vito that the real money was in drugs, Vito refused to take the Family into that kind of business. Whether he's being stubborn or wise, this Don Corleone quote shows that Vito was always right, as the narcotics trade inspires a bloody gang war.
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"A Man Who Doesn't Spend Time With His Family Can Never Be A Real Man."
Don Corelone Teaches His Son About Family
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Though Vito loved all his children equally, he held a certain amount of contempt for Sonny for not following the principles Vito had taught him. Vito was a character who always believed in being a loyal family man. When he saw that Sonny had been playing around with his mistress on the day of Connie’s (Talia Shire) wedding, Vito took a jab at him. As far as Vito was concerned, the true mark of a man was how he treated his loved ones through thick and thin, and even if his methods were sometimes disagreeable, it is a sentiment that speaks to the best qualities in Vito.
"Some Day, And That Day May Never Come, I Will Call Upon You To Do A Service For Me."
Don Corleone Names His Price
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Vito Corleone with his arm around Bonasera in The Godfather
Vito Corleone with his arm around Bonasera in The Godfather
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The real genius behind Vito's interaction with Bonasera at the beginning of the movie is that all Vito really wants, in the end, is to get Bonasera in his debt. Vito's understanding of interpersonal relationships is what makes him such an effective Don, and he treats his relationship with Bonasera the same way that he does any of his business relationships, as a means to an end. Bonasera doesn't walk away with exactly what he wants, but Vito agrees to enough of his wishes to guarantee Bonasera's loyalty, and Don Corleone skillfully adds another ally to his back pocket to use when he needs them.
RELATED: The Godfather's Famous Wedding Day Scene Made Up 1 Tradition For The Movie
"I Think It’s Time You Told Your Don What Everyone Else Seems To Know."
Don Corleone Learns Of Sonny's Death
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Vito Corleone discuses Nevada investments with his Consigliere in The Godfather
Vito Corleone discuses Nevada investments with his Consigliere in The Godfather
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Seeing how in control and commanding Don Corleone is in the early scenes of the movie, it is quite impactful to see how he is rendered weak following the attempt on his life. Vito disappears from the movie for a portion as the responsibilities pass to Sonny, but following Sonny's death, he tries to take back some of that power. Calling Tom into his room, Vito notes that his wife is crying and cars are coming and going. He knows there is something they are not telling him and he knows it is bad. It is a sad moment of Vito accepting he has vulnerabilities, but appealing to Tom to remember he is still the don.
"Is Vengeance Going To Bring Your Son Back To You Or My Boy To Me?"
Don Corleone Proposes Peace
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Vito Corleone with Tom Hagen meeting the bosses in The Godfather
Vito Corleone with Tom Hagen meeting the bosses in The Godfather
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During the meeting between the heads of the families, Vito made the first move toward peace, pointing out that no one was in a place to gain anything from the gang war that had been going on. Vito gave a simple but impactful statement that the path of vengeance would bring no rewards and though it's a wise statement it also serves as a reminder that Vito is not as gentle as he appears. Both Vito and Michael care deeply about Sonny's death, even if they don't show it, and they never forgive it. Vito is really stalling as the Corleones put themselves into a better position to avenge Sonny and take back control.
"Look How They Massacred My Boy."
Don Corleone Mourns Sonny
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Vito cries as he sees Sonny’s dead body in The Godfather
Vito cries as he sees Sonny’s dead body in The Godfather
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Don Corleone commands any room he is in with barely a whisper thanks to his total control over his emotions. Seeing him reprimand Sonny and Johnny for showing too much of what they are feeling highlights how much he is concerned with keeping all that bottled up inside. That makes his reaction to seeing Sonny's body all the more devastating. Though he attempts to be the same decisive man in this moment, he breaks down at the sight of his firstborn dead in front of him. Marlon Brando's amazing performance in the scene shows a new side of Vito that makes him more human than ever.
"I'm Gonna Make Him An Offer He Can't Refuse."
Don Corleone Makes A Deal
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Vito Corleone sitting at his desk in The Godfather
Vito Corleone sitting at his desk in The Godfather
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This is not only the most famous Don Corleone quote but also the most famous quote from The Godfather. The term is almost a catchphrase within the Corleone family as Michael mentions the term to Kay (Diane Keaton) before Vito even says it in the movie. The "offer" is of course to do what the Corleones ask or meet a swift and sudden death. It is another instance of the movie removing Vito from the harsher elements of the business but fully condoning them. The matter-of-fact way he delivers this quote makes it sound like a generous offer while Vito is well aware of the threat behind the offer.
The Godfather
Release Date 1972-03-24
Director Francis Ford Coppola
Cast Al Pacino, Marlon Brando, James Caan, Robert Duvall, Diane Keaton
Rating R
Runtime 175 minutes
Writers Francis Ford Coppola, Mario Puzo
Studio(s) Paramount Pictures
The Godfather
Summary: The aging patriarch of an organized crime dynasty transfers control of his clandestine empire to his reluctant son.
Release Date: 1972-03-24
Budget: $6 million
Cast: Marlon Brando, Diane Keaton, James Caan, Al Pacino, Robert Duvall
Director: Francis Ford Coppola
Genres: Drama, Crime
Rating: R
Runtime: 175 minutes
Writers: Mario Puzo, Francis Ford Coppola
Studio(s): Paramount Pictures
Distributor(s): Paramount+
Sequel(s): The Godfather Part II, The Godfather Part III
Franchise(s): The Godfather
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10 Best Quotes from 'The Godfather: Part II,' Ranked
Story by Andrea Ciriaco • 1w • 8 min read
Francis Ford Coppola's The Godfather: Part II is an epic sequel to The Godfather, which reignited and redefined the gangster genre for a whole new generation. Unlike most sequels, The Godfather: Part II also serves as a prequel and features duel storylines that follow Vito Corleone's early days in New York City and his son, Michael, who is now head of the Corleone family.
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Similar to The Godfather, the second film has some of the most memorable moments in movie history and iconic performances by the overall cast, but it's also universally recognized for its powerful dialogue and quotes, which, even decades later, remain relevant to film fanatics. From the classic confrontation between Michael and his older brother, Fredo, to Frankie Pentangeli's bold statement about Hyman Roth, these are the 10 best quotes from The Godfather: Part II, ranked.
The Godfather Part II
Release DateDecember 20, 1974
DirectorFrancis Ford Coppola
CastLee Strasberg, Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, John Cazale, Talia Shire, Robert Duvall, Diane Keaton
RatingR
Runtime202
"Senator, you can have my answer now, if you like. My offer is nothing."
Character: Michael Corleone
At their estate in Lake Tahoe, Michael throws a big party to celebrate his son's First Communion and also conduct business matters. He meets with one guest, Senator Pat Geary (G.D. Spradlin), to discuss his future plans for taking over another major casino, but he will need a gaming license. The Senator tries to shake Michael down for the license as well as a cut of the profits and, while he thinks he has the upper hand, Michael isn't phased in the least.
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Before the Senator leaves, he tells Michael what he really thinks of Italian-Americans, which he thought would get a rise out of him, but instead, Michael replies with one of the most memorable quotes of the film. When a Corleone makes an offer, no one can refuse it. The Corleone family has a history of breaking the law and destroying anyone's free will, so even though the Senator doesn't realize this, audiences are well aware that he will accept Michael's offer one way or another.
"Good health is the most important thing. More than success, more than money, more than power."
Character: Hyman Roth
Hyman Roth (Lee Strasberg) has been in poor health for several years, but despite his physical state, he still manages to run things. When Michael goes to visit him at his home in Miami, Roth is the first one to bring up the attempt on Michael's life in Tahoe and gives him some words of wisdom that essentially causes Michael to think perhaps he has been too trusting of his father's long-time associate.
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Roth's quote is valid to others, but to Michael, his emphasis on the importance of health and well-being reveals to Michael that he was the one behind the hit. Not only does he stress his point, but he's also the first one to mention Michael's trouble in Tahoe, which initially causes Michael to question his partner's intentions. The seemingly insightful advice makes this one of the best quotes from The Godfather: Part II, but the underlying meaning solidifies its spot on the list.
"Do me this favor. I won't forget it. Ask your friends in the neighborhood about me. They'll tell you I know how to return a favor."
Character: Vito Corleone
When a neighbor. Signora Colombo, asks Vito Corleone (Robert De Niro) to help save her from being evicted by her landlord, Vito agrees and finds the man, Signor Roberto, as he's leaving the barbershop. Vito tries to persuade Roberto to let the woman stay and when Roberto reveals he's already sold the place to another family, Vito generously gives him an advance on an increased rent. Roberto tries to refuse, but Vito advises him to ask around about him.
This particular scene demonstrates why Vito was such a successful businessman as well as beloved by his friends and neighbors. He could have resorted to force or violence to get Roberto to change his mind, but, instead, he spoke to him in hopes that his words and money would suffice. Fans already know that Vito was a well-respected boss and, even when he was just starting out in the family business, he was an honorable man who always kept his word.
"I've loved baseball ever since Arnold Rothstein fixed the World Series in 1919."
Character: Hyman Roth
When Michael arrives in Miami to see Hyman Roth, he's invited in by Roth's wife, who kindly leads him into the family room where Roth is watching a football game and expresses his love of the sport as well as baseball. Most people love baseball because it's America's greatest pastime, or they grew up watching it, but for Roth, it's because of one monumental moment that changed the game of baseball forever.
This one-liner might not mean that much to those who don't know that Roth's character is based on a real-life mobster, Myer Lanksy. When Lanksy was first starting, he was brought up in the world of organized crime by Arnold Rothstein, who is best known for pulling off one of the biggest scams in American history. It's only fitting that a gangster like Roth would have fallen in love with the game because of the illegal activities surrounding it.
"Your country ain't your blood. Remember that."
Character: Santino "Sonny" Corleone
At the end of The Godfather: Part II, Michael has a flashback to when he and his siblings were waiting for their father to come home and surprise him on his birthday. While they sit at the dining room table, they discuss the United States recently entering World War II and Sonny (James Caan) makes his opinion about fighting for their country very clear. As he jokes around with his brothers, he's shocked when Michael announces that he's dropped out of college and enlisted in the Marines.
The final scene is one of the most powerful moments in the entire Godfather trilogy and reveals how differently Michael used to view the world compared to his brothers. Sonny's one-liner showcases how he and his siblings were raised to value their family above all else and, even though Michael loved his family, he originally believed in a greater cause that was bigger than the Corleone family.
"My father's name was Antonio Andolini...and this is for you."
Character: Vito Corleone
When Vito and his family travel to Sicily, Vito and his business partner, Don Tommasino (Mario Cotone) pay a visit to Don Ciccio, who murdered Vito's family and tried to kill him as well when he was a boy. Under the guise of seeking Ciccio's blessing to start their business, the two men meet with the aging man and when he asks Vito who his father was, Vito replies with one of the best (and most satisfying) lines in the film.
As Don Ciccio had predicted, Vito came back to Sicily and poetically carried out his own form of justice against the man who had his entire family killed. Instead of stringing the conversation along or continuing the charade, Vito doesn't waste any more time and says all he needs to say in one single, epic line before giving Ciccio exactly what he deserves.
"I don't feel I have to wipe everyone out, Tom. Just my enemies."
Character: Michael Corleone
After learning of his brother's betrayal and Hyman Roth surviving his hitman, Michael sits down with Tom Hagen (Robert Duvall), to figure out their next move. At this point, Michael has become paranoid, feeling he can't trust anyone, and even offends Tom by questioning his loyalty. When Tom refuses to leave Michael and the family, he asks Michael why he feels the need to get rid of everyone and is met with one of the best one-liners in the film.
Michael's response to Tom's question is telling of how cold and ruthless he has become. With literally nothing left to lose, Michael is more than willing to take out anyone he feels is a threat to himself and the family business, even if it's someone like Tom who always supported him and has never given him a reason to suspect him of betraying him.
"Your father did business with Hyman Roth, your father respected Hyman Roth, but your father never trusted Hyman Roth."
Character: Frank Pentangeli
During Anthony's First Communion celebration, Michael meets with Frank Pentangeli (Michael V. Gazzo) who asks Michael for permission to kill the Rosato brothers. Since the brothers are protected and backed up by Hyman Roth, Michael explains his future business plans with Roth and denies Pentangeli's request. Pentangeli, who is one of Vito's last remaining captains, boldly replies to Michael with one of the most iconic quotes in the movie.
Frankie is one of few who could speak candidly to Michael, and he doesn't hesitate to elaborate on how Vito truly felt about Roth...and his Sicilian messenger boy, Johnny Ola, who is played by The Sopranos star, Dominic Chianese. Michael may be head of the family, but there's still a lot his father never had the chance to teach him and if it weren't for Frankie's insight, Michael may have been sent to an early grave.
"I know it was you, Fredo, you broke my heart."
Character: Michael Corleone
When Fredo (John Cazale) arrives in Cuba to bring Michael the money for the Havana government, Michael mentions Hyman Roth and Johnny Ola, whom Fredo claims he has never met before. Later, Michael asks his older brother to entertain a few politicians from Washington D.C. who are potential investors. To celebrate New Year's Eve, Fredo takes everyone to a place where he admits that he's been there before with Ola, tipping off to Michael that he was the traitor in the family.
The moment between Michael and Fredo is easily one of the most famous scenes and quotes in cinema history. Michael's anger and devastation lingers in his eyes as he stares into his brother's before giving him the kiss of death is just beyond compelling. Indeed, the ones who betray you are usually the ones you love and Michael's words affirm Fredo's unfortunate fate in a cruel and twisted way.
"Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer."
Character: Michael Corleone
When Michael returns from Miami, he pays Frank Pentangeli an unexpected visit and reveals to him that he knows Roth is the one who tried to kill him. Frankie is ready to go out guns blazing and "hit them all," but Michael shows restraint and walks around the room that used to be his father's office and recalls the lesson he once taught him about the importance of keeping your friends close but your enemies closer.
This is without a doubt the best quote from The Godfather: Part II and, aside from Marlon Brando's iconic line, "I'm going to make him an offer he can't refuse," it's easily one of the most famous out of all three films. Michael is very much like his father and doesn't jump the gun, but instead, he strategically plots his next move, knowing that the closer he is to the Roth, the easier it will be to take him out.
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