The three Godfather films produced some of the most famous cinematic moments, and the visual element of trilogy ranks alongside the eminently quotable dialogue and landmark performances of Coppola’s epic series. As official on-set photographer for all three movies, Steve Schapiro had a front row seat for the making of cinema history, and enjoyed an enviable level of access to the filming process both in front of the camera and behind the scenes.
The Godfather Family Album, published by TASCHEN, is the result of Schapiro’s time documenting the filming process. All the iconic moments are beautifully captured here, from Brando’s Don Corleone receiving unwanted solicitations on the day of his daughter’s wedding to Michael telling Fredo that he knows of his brother’s betrayal, but the real interest lies in the moments the audience wasn’t privy to. The on-set images of cast and crew display the genuine bonhomie that existed between the production’s key figures, and offers a glimpse of the reality behind the mystique. We’ll be honest, the edition isn’t cheap at £1,750, and numbers are very limited, but if you’re a fan of the films, this might be an offer you can’t refuse.
Don Emilio Barzini (Richard Conte) oversees the cessation
of hostilities between Don Philip Tattaglia (Victor Rendina)
and Don Vito Corleone (Marlon Brando).
© Steve Schapiro
Marlon Brando and Francis Ford Coppola
during makeup session.
(The Godfather I)
© Steve Schapiro
Michael Corleone (Al Pacino) and
his brother Fredo (John Cazale).
(The Godfather II)
© Steve Schapiro
Portrait of Francis Ford Coppola flanked by James Caan,
Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, and John Cazale.
(The Godfather I)
© Steve Schapiro
Marlon Brando is Don Vito Corleone.
(The Godfather I)
© Steve Schapiro
The family wedding photo.
(The Godfather I)
© Steve Schapiro
Brando receives the applause of the onlookers.
(Godfather I)
© Steve Schapiro
Portrait of Don Michael Corleone
played by Al Pacino.
(The Godfather II)
© Steve Schapiro
