The Godfather Part II (1974). Cert 18. Director - Francis Ford Coppola. Writer - Mario Puza & Francis Ford Coppola. Starring - Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, Robert Duvall, Diane Keaton & Bruno Kirby.

Premise - The early life & career of Vito Corleone is portrayed while his son expands and tightens his grip on his crime syndicate in the 1950's.       The Godfather Part 2 is so much more than a sequel. Not only is the story of Michael Corleone continued, but we see (in flashback) the rise of Vito Corleone in early 20th century New York. So in a sense it is a prequel as well as a sequel to the superlative original movie. Boasting for the most part the same ensemble cast as the first film, part 2 adds the inspired casting of Robert De Niro as the young Vito Corleone. In this film De Niro shows why he is the most durable and affecting actor in the history of movies. He has taken the part that Brando made his own and has taken it to the next level. When De Niro is on screen he commands your attention, so powerful is his performance as Don Corleone. Pacino is no slouch either. Building on the character development that Michael went through in part one, Pacino further deepens his character in the world of the 'family business'. The idealistic young man from part one has been completely eradicated, in his place is a ruthless man with a steely, cold stare that will stop at nothing to uphold the honour of the family. Although both films are excellent, it's these central performances that just manage to rise part 2 above the original in my eyes. The Godfather Part 2 is essential viewing for film fans and for Mr Joe Bloggs on the street alike.

10/10 for The Godfather Part 2. Poster Quote - Not all sequels suck....