53. Don Vito Corleone
The Godfather
Even if he is the titular godfather, Vito is not the star. Rather he is simply the brilliant head of the family that the ensemble story revolves around. Yet he's probably the most popular character in the film.
And for good reason, of course! He's so likable and smart, and a such dedicated, honorable family man that you would almost forget that part of that family was the mafia. He was kind. He made his family seem safe.
Vito is a Don by title, but the same title could be given to Marlon Brando. A brilliant, dedicated actor, Brando performed another one of his dozen "roles of a lifetime". The paralell can be seen between Vito providing love and guidance to the next generation of mobsters and Brando teaching the next generation of great actors (Pacino, Caan, Duvall, etc.). No matter whether or not the old man is the star of the film or not, it will always be his show.
Defining moment: After going into retirement, Vito advises Michael on how his old enemies will move around the new godfather.
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