Al Pacino's anxiety over his performance in 'The Godfather', which was released back in 1972, led him to secretly hope that an injury would free him from the iconic role.
- Oct 14, 2024
AceShowbiz - Al Pacino, the legendary actor known for his portrayal of Michael Corleone in "The Godfather", has admitted that he secretly hoped to break his ankle on set as a way to escape the film. In his upcoming memoir, "Sonny Boy", Pacino reveals that he felt immense pressure from the studio executives and director Francis Ford Coppola, who initially doubted his suitability for the role.
Despite ultimately earning an Oscar nomination for his performance, Pacino was initially anxious about his portrayal. In fact, when he slipped while attempting to jump into a moving car during the iconic restaurant scene, he felt a wave of relief, thinking, "Thank you, God. I'm gonna get out of this film."
Pacino's desire to leave the film stemmed from a combination of factors. Paramount Studios had initially favored other actors, such as Jack Nicholson and Robert Redford, over him for the role of Michael Corleone. Additionally, Pacino believed that his portrayal of Michael as a "sissy" did not align with the studio's vision.
However, despite his initial struggles, Pacino eventually found his footing in the role. After viewing the rushes, he realized that his understated approach would ultimately become integral to Michael's enigmatic character development throughout the "Godfather" films.
Despite his doubts, Pacino stayed on with the cast and crew, and "The Godfather" went on to become one of the most influential and critically acclaimed films of all time. The film garnered 10 Academy Award nominations, winning three prestigious Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Actor for Marlon Brando, and Best Adapted Screenplay.