Here’s Why Sergio Leone Turned Down The Godfather
Fifty years after its debut, “The Godfather” continues to be timeless cinema, often referred to as the epitome of classic films. When someone complains that modern movies lack substance, this is typically the movie they’re referring to. The American Film Institute ranks it second only to “Citizen Kane,” while numerous other organizations place it at the top. This iconic film, adapted from Mario Puzo’s 1969 novel of the same name, was a massive box office hit, earning $291 million and winning three out of seven nominations at the 45th Academy Awards. It also catapulted Francis Ford Coppola and Al Pacino to stardom, while re-establishing Marlon Brando as an A-list actor following a few years of professional struggles.