I have selected three actors from The Godfather (1972) representing three acting styles: Marlon Brando, who plays Vito Corleone, Rod Gnapp, who plays Amerigo Bonasera, and Diane Keaton, who plays Kay Adams.
The main character Vito Corleone is payed by acclaimed actor Marlon Brando who is an example of “Method” acting. Brando incorporates to his character a passion brought from his own self to give life and real feelings to Don Corleone. When he talks, it seems like he always whispers and mumbles with his nasal and smoky voice that becomes representative of the secret, classified business he represents: the Mafia business. Vito Corleone sighs and thinks before he states a line, scratches his cheek and then he looks straight into the other person’s eyes. When he suffers, he shows his pain from his deepest inner-self, even showing real tears. Marlon Brando “Method” acting style has an unquestionable impact on the film.
On the opening scene appears a character named Amerigo Bonasera, who came to see the Don during his daughter’s wedding, asking for justice for his own daughter. Bonasera on this scene, uses “Stylized” acting when he tells about the reason of his visit. His lines and tone make him appear unrealistic or exaggerated. The film actually starts with Bonasera’s words: “I believe in America. America has made my fortune.” His acting on this opening scene was set the tone of the movie as it introduced to the type of character Vito Corleone was and how he run his business. Bonasera was portrayed by actor Rod Gnapp.
An example of “Realism” acting style is played by Kay Adams, the wife of Michael Corleone, portrayed by Diana Keaton. Her acting is naturalistic and genuine. Her opposition to Michael being part of his family business was understandable. Keaton’s acting in The Godfather reflects the way an average American thinks; therefore, her performance is natural and realistic.
References:
Goodykoontz, B., & Jacobs, C. P. (2014). Film: From watching to seeing (2nd ed.). San Diego, CA: Bridgepoint Education, Inc.
Movieclips. The Godfather (6/9) Movie CLIP – Working for My Father (1972) HD. Retrieved from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=voNs3aHZmQM
Movieclips. The Godfather-The Opening Scene. Retrieved from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i96VS_z8y7g
Photo. Marlon Brando. Retrieved from: http://godfather.wikia.com/wiki/Marlon_Brando?file=Marlon_Brando.jpg
Movieclips. The Godfather-The Opening Scene. Retrieved from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i96VS_z8y7g
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