“I believe in America” These four words started a masterpiece of literature by Mario Puzo in 1969. The book and movie are still loved by thousands to this day because of the emotion and humanity of the film. March 14th, 1972 was the day the movie was released to the public, and it’s been seen and loved by millions ever since; this year is its 53rd anniversary.

The movie is so acclaimed because it shows the fall from grace of Michael Corleone, who slowly began to turn into the person his father didn’t want him to become, as well as his moral downfall of choosing family over honor. Throughout the whole movie, it’s a major twist on the American dream, of how anyone can come into this country and make something of themselves.

There is so much emotion during the movie – whether it’s at the wedding or Don Corleone’s funeral – it’s always there; the choices the characters make out of loyalty and respect are so real, mainly shown at the wedding, showing the unity of their culture and highlighting their personalities.

Freshman Amanda DiMichina comments that she liked the movie since, “It’s about the Don, it’s a good movie, but, it can be stereotypical to Italians – as are most mafia movies – but I do love the movie very much, it’s one of my favorites.”

Surprisingly, many people said they hadn’t watched the movie or read the book yet, and many don’t know what it’s about either, “It’s about…a godfather? I don’t know, I’ve never watched it,” Freshman Kaylynn Nguyen says, “Wait, is it about a godfather guy who becomes the godfather of a baby?? I know Tinker Bell ain’t doing this.”

Many shows and songs still reference the movie, which shows its impact on those who watched it. It’s referenced by the show Barbie: Life in the Dream House when Chelsie has the last can of glitter, and Skipper needs to make her “an offer she can’t refuse”, then promptly gives her the horse head of a stuffed animal. The actor for the Don – Marlon Brando – is referenced in Slipknot’s song Eyeless, saying that you “can’t see California without Marlon Brando’s eyes”

Other shows that reference The Godfather are The Simpsons, Friends, Gilmore Girls, Zootopia, The Sopranos, Oceans 13, and many others. These shows show the lasting impact this movie had on so many people; it practically has a chokehold on whoever lays eyes on it.