Marlon Brando Don Vito Corleone Al Pacino Michael Corleone James Caan Sonny Corleone Harry Dean Stanton Brett Richard Castellano Clemenza Robert Duvall Tom Hagen Sterling Hayden McCluskey John Marley Jack Woltz Richard Conte Barzini Diane Keaton Kay Adams John Cazale Fredo Corleone
FADE FROM BLACK
Int. Don Corleone's home office – day
BONASERA (seated in front of the Don's desk, facing the camera) I believe in America. America has made my fortune. And I raised my daughter in the American fashion. I gave her freedom, but – I taught her never to dishonor her family. She found a boyfriend; not an Italian. She went to the movies with him; she stayed out late. I didn't protest. Two months ago, he took her for a drive, with another boyfriend. They made her drink whiskey. And then they tried to take advantage of her. She resisted. She kept her honor. So they beat her, like an animal. When I went to the hospital, her nose was a'broken. Her jaw was a'shutted, held together by wire. She couldn't even weep because of the pain. But I wept. Why did I weep? She was the light of my life – beautiful girl. Now she will never be beautiful again.
Bonasera breaks down. The Don gestures to Sonny to give Bonasera a drink.
BONASERA Sorry...
Bonasera, taking the drink, sips from the shot glass.
BONASERA I-I went to the police, like a good American. These two boys were brought to trial. The judge sentenced them to three years in prison – suspended sentence. Suspended sentence! They went free that very day! I stood in the courtroom like a fool. And those two bastard, they smiled at me. Then I said to my wife, "for justice, we must go to Don Corleone."
VITO CORLEONE (sitting behind his desk, petting a cat) Why did you go to the police? Why didn't you come to me first?
BONASERA What do you want of me? Tell me anything. But do what I beg you to do.
VITO CORLEONE What is that?
Bonasera gets up to whisper his request into Don Corleone's ear.
VITO CORLEONE That I cannot do.
BONASERA I'll give you anything you ask.
VITO CORLEONE We've known each other many years, but this is the first time you came to me for counsel, for help. I can't remember the last time that you invited me to your house for a cup of coffee, even though my wife is godmother to your only child. But let's be frank here: you never wanted my friendship. And uh, you were afraid to be in my debt.
BONASERA I didn't want to get into trouble.
VITO CORLEONE I understand. You found paradise in America, had a good trade, made a good living. The police protected you; and there were courts of law. And you didn't need a friend of me. But uh, now you come to me and you say – "Don Corleone give me justice." – But you don't ask with respect. You don't offer friendship. You don't even think to call me Godfather. Instead, you come into my house on the day my daughter is to be married, and you uh ask me to do murder, for money.
BONASERA I ask you for justice.
VITO CORLEONE That is not justice; your daughter is still alive.
BONASERA Then they can suffer then, as she suffers. (then) How much shall I pay you?
VITO CORLEONE (stands, turning his back toward Bonasera) Bonasera... Bonasera... What have I ever done to make you treat me so disrespectfully? Had you come to me in friendship, then this scum that ruined your daughter would be suffering this very day. And that by chance if an honest man such as yourself should make enemies, then they would become my enemies. And then they would fear you.
BONASERA Be my friend – (after bowing and the Don shrugs) – Godfather?
VITO CORLEONE (after Bonasera kisses his hand) Good. (then) Some day, and that day may never come, I'll call upon you to do a service for m e. But uh, until that day – accept this justice as a gift on my daughter's wedding day.
BONASERA (as he leaves the room) Grazie, Godfather.
VITO CORLEONE Prego. (to Tom Hagen, after Bonasera leaves the room) Ah, give this to ah, Clemenza. I want reliable people; people that aren't gonna be carried away. I'm mean, we're not murderers, despite of what this undertaker says.
CUT TO:
Connie's Wedding reception – Day
We hear the music "Connie's Wedding (The Godfather Tarantella)".
CUT TO:
Connie and Carlo at the head table
CUT TO:
The family gathers for a family portrait
VITO CORLEONE Where's Michael?
SONNY CORLEONE Don't worry; it's early.
VITO CORLEONE We're not taking the picture without Michael (he tells the photographer, in Italian)
TOM HAGEN What's the matter, Sonny?
SONNY CORLEONE It's Michael
The Don meets some guests outside.
Mama dances with Sonny's twin girls.
Connie and Carlo laughs with guest at head table.
Clemenza dances with his wife.
FBI arrives and take license plate numbers.
Tessio sits at a table, tosses himself an orange.
FBI continues to take license plate numbers.
Don Barzini arrives.
VITO CORLEONE Eh, Don Barzini.
Vito introduces Barzini to someone, in Italian.
Clemenza is dancing, gets tired, and spins off the dancefloor, laughing.
CLEMENZA (after dancing) Hey, Paulie! Let me have some wine. Paulie! More wine...
PAULIE (O.S.) (to someone) Scusi, please. (in view, to Clemenza, handing him a pitcher quarter-full of wine) Hey, you look terrif'' on the dance floor
CLEMENZA Hey, what are you a dance judge or something? Go take a walk around the neighborhood – do your job.
Sonny pinches Lucy Mancini's cheek as he walks towards his wife, Sandra.
SONNY Hey Sandra, do me a favor, watch the kids – don't let'em run wild, all right?
SANDRA Well, you watch yourself, all right?
Reception continues with Part 2 of Connie's Wedding Song (The Godfather Mazurka). We first see Tessio dancing with a young girl standing on his feet.
OFF SCREEN Eh Tessio... (something in Italian) ... buona fai.
Don Corleone dances with his wife, Carmella (Mama).
Connie collects gifts for her bridal purse. Paulie is watching.
PAULIE Twenty... Thirty-grand. In small bills, cash. In that little silk purse. Maron, i f this was someone else's wedding, sweet tonato!
BUTTONMAN (from afar, tossing him sandwiches) Hey, Paulie! I got two gavagool? Gabagone?... and a...
PAULIE Eh, you stupid jerk!
A news photographer takes Barzini's picture. Barzini motions to his men to get the camera.
PHOTOGRAPHER Eh, what's the matter?
The men bring the camera to Barzini, who removes and crumples the film.
Tom going up to his wife, Theresa, who's sitting at a table at the reception.
TOM I have to go back to work.
THERESA Oh, Tom.
TOM (after he kisses his wife) It's part of the wedding: No Sicilian can refuse any request on his daughter's wedding day.
LUCA (rehearsing his lines as Tom passes him) Don Corleone, I am honored and grateful that you have invited me to your home...
Sonny goes out into the driveway to see the FBI guys. The Mazurka ends.
SONNY Eh – what – Get outta here; it's a private party, go on! (then to FBI guy in car) What's is it? Hey, it's my sister's wedding. (he spits after being shown a badge, turns and walks away) Goddamn FBI don't respect nothing jazz music begins to play from party. (to photographer) Eh, come here; come here; come here; come here, come here; come here; come here... (smashes camera, which Paulie kicks, and flips cash to him)
CUT TO:
Nazorine and Enzo in Don Corleone's office – day
NAZORINE (seated in front of the Don's desk) But towards the end, he was uh paroled to help with the American uh war effort. So for the last six months he's been working in my pastry shop.
VITO CORLEONE (seated) Nazorine, my friend, what can I do for you?
NAZORINE Well now that the war is over, this boy, Enzo – they want to repatriate him back to Italy. Godfather, I have a daughter. You see, she and Enzo...
VITO CORLEONE You want Enzo to stay in this country, and you want your daughter to be married .
NAZORINE (stands) You understand everything.
They shake hands, Nazorine turns to leave.
VITO CORLEONE Bene.
NAZORINE (with Mr. Hagen now, by the door) Mr. Hagen, thank you. (turning to Don Corleone) An' wait til you see the beautiful wedding cake I made for your daughter! Ooof! (gestures) Like this! The bride and the groom and the angel...
TOM (after Nazorine exits) Who should I give this job to?
VITO CORLEONE Not to our paisan. Give it to a jew congressman, in another district. Who else is on the list?
CUT TO:
OUTSIDE
Michael and Kay arrive, make some introductions. They dance to "Ev'rytime I Look In Your Eyes" as the Don watches from his window.
CUT TO:
The Don's office – day
TOM He's not on the list, but Luca Brasi wants to see you.
VITO CORLEONE (looking out the window) Is this – is this necessary?
TOM He didn't expect to be invited to the wedding, so he wanted to thank you.
VITO CORLEONE All right.
CUT TO:
Outside of the Corleone residence
Luca sits, rehearsing his lines.
LUCA BRASI (rehearsing his lines aloud) Don Corleone, I am honored and grateful that you have invited me to your home on the wedding day of your daughter. And may there first child be a masculine child. (starting over, which continues throughout the following dialogue) Don – Don Corleone...
KAY Michael, that man over there is talking to himself. See that scary looking guy over there?
LUCA'S VOICE ... On the wedding day of your daughter...
MICHAEL (after glancing over at Luca) He's a very scary guy.
KAY Well, who is he? What's his name?
MICHAEL His name is Luca Brasi – an' he helps my father out sometimes.
Luca stands up, facing Mike and Kay, seemingly coming toward them.
KAY Oh, Michael, wait a minute; he's coming over here...
TOM Mike!
MICHAEL Oh!
TOM (embracing Michael) Heh...! You look terrific!
MICHAEL My brother, Tom Hagen – this is Kay Adams.
TOM How do you do.
KAY How do you do, Tom
TOM (into Michael's ear) Your father's been asking for you. (to Kay, before he leaves) Very nice to meet you.
KAY Nice to meet you. (after Tom exits) If he's your brother, why does he have a different name?
MICHAEL Oh, ah, that – when my brother Sonny was a kid, he found Tom Hagen in the street. And he had no home – and so my father took him in – and he's been with us ever since . He's a good lawyer. Not a Sicilian, but – I think he's gonna be consiglieri.
KAY What's that?
MICHAEL That's um, like a counselor – an advisor – very important to the family. (then) You like your lasagna?
CUT TO:
Luca Brasi in Don Corleone's office – day
LUCA BRASI Don Corleone, I am honored and grateful that you have invited me to your daughter's wedding... (after realizing he messed up his rehearsed lines, he fails to re cover) ... on the day of your daughter's wedding. And I hope that their first child be a masculine child. I pledge my ever-ending loyalty.
Playing kids run into the room and then are escorted out by Tom.
LUCA BRASI (as Luca hands Don Corleone a cash-filled envelope) For your daughter's bridal purse.
VITO CORLEONE Thank you, Luca, my most valued friend.
LUCA BRASI Don Corleone, I'm gonna leave you know, because I know you are busy.
VITO CORLEONE Thank you.
Tom escorts Luca out.
Bride & groom dance to "The Godfather Fox Trot".
Sonny moves closer to Lucy to whisper into her ear.
Sandra gestures to other women about the size of Sonny's manhood; they laugh.
Sandra turns to see Lucy get up to meet Sonny.
Singing and dancing on stage.
VOICE (urging Mama Corleone to come onto the stage to sing) Signora Corleone!
MAMA (laughingly) No – no – no! (once on stage) Assesta stori! (sings the first verse to "Luna Mezz'a Mare")
Sonny goes upstairs.
An old man continues "Luna Mezz'a Mare" while Nazorine dances a nd laughs on stage.
Lucy Mancini goes upstairs.
The old man who was singing is now dancing.
CUT TO:
Don's office
TOM Senator Cauly apologized for not coming personally – he said you'd understand. Also, some of the judges. They've all sent gifts. (toasting to the Don) Salute!
Off screen: screaming of joy from the party outside.
VITO CORLEONE What is that outside?
CUT TO:
Outside
Johnny Fontane enters the party.
CONNIE (while running up to Johnny, then hugging him) Johnny! Johnny! Johnny! I love you!
CUT TO:
Don's office
The Don is looking out the window.
VITO He came all the way from California to come to the wedding; I told you he was going to come.
TOM It's been two years; he probably got into trouble again.
VITO He's a good godson.
CUT TO:
Bandstand area – day
MAMA CORLEONE Johnny, Johnny! (in Italian) "Sing a song". (in English) Sing a song.
The crowd encourages Johnny, and he gives in.
CUT TO:
Michael and Kay's table – day
KAY Mike, you never told me you knew Johnny Fontane!
MICHAEL Sure... You wanna meet him?
KAY Huh? Oh, well, sure!
MICHAEL My father helped him with his career.
JOHNNY (O.S.) For my Connie...
KAY He did? How?
JOHNNY (O.S.) (singing "I Have But One Heart") "I have but one heart..."
MICHAEL Let's listen to the song...
PAN to the crowd cheering and screaming as Johnny sings.
JOHNNY (singing, continues) "... this love I bring you I have but one heart To share with you I have but one dream That I can cling to You are the one dream..."
KAY Oh, Michael...
JOHNNY (singing, finishing the verse) "...I dream comes true..."
KAY Please, Michael, tell me.
JOHNNY (O.S.) (continues the song) "My darling, until I saw you..."
MICHAEL Well, when Johnny was first starting out, he was signed to this personal service contract; with a big band leader. And as his career got better and better, he wanted to g et out of it. Now, Johnny is my father's godson. And my father went to see this band leader, and he offered him $10,000 to let Johnny go. But the band leader said no. So the next day, my father went to see him; only this time with Luca Brasi. And within an hour, he signed a release, for a certified check for $1,000.
KAY How'd he do that?
MICHAEL My father made him an offer he couldn't refuse.
KAY What was that?
MICHAEL Luca Brasi held a gun to his head, and my father assured him that either his brains – or his signature – would be on the contract. (then) That's a true story. (then) That's my family, Kay. It's not me.
CUT TO:
Bandstand area – day
MAMA (O.S.) Bene! Bene!
The song is finished, and we hear applause. The Don goes out to meet Johnny, and they, and other guests, toast. The Mazurka music and dancing continue.
VOICE (O.S.) Salute!
Johnny whispers into the Don's ear that he wants to talk to him.
VITO CORLEONE I'll take care of it. (to Tom) Tom, I want you to find Santino. Tell him to come to the office.
Tom looks up, as if knowing what Sonny's up to.
CUT TO:
Michael and Kay's table at the reception
MICHAEL (with Kay, gets tapped in the head by Fredo) Oh! (noticing Fredo) How are you, Fredo? (then) Fredo – my brother Fredo – this is Kay Adams
KAY Oh, hi
FREDO How'ya doing? (after Fredo kisses Kay on the cheek) This is my brother, Mike.
MICHAEL Are you having a good time?
FREDO Huh? yeah... (then) This your friend, huh?
CUT TO:
Johnny Fontane in the Don's office – DAY
JOHNNY I don't know what to do. My voice is – is weak. It's weak. Anyway, uh, if I ha d this part in the picture, ya'know, it puts me right back up on top again. But this, uh – this man out there, he won't give it to me; the head of the studio.
VITO CORLEONE What's his name?
JOHNNY Woltz – Woltz. He won't give it to me – and ah, he says there's no chance. No chance.
CUT TO:
Tom looking for Sonny inside the house
TOM (at the bottom of the stairs) Sonny? Sonny?
Sonny and Lucy are going at it, standing against a door in an upstairs bedroom. Tom goes upstairs, then knocks on the bedroom door.
TOM Sonny? Sonny you in there?
SONNY (stopping the action) What?
TOM Your old man wants to see you.
SONNY Yeah, one minute.
Tom smiles, and walks away, as Sonny and Lucy continue.
CUT TO:
OUTSIDE
A woman singing Italian song, opera-like, on the stage.
CUT TO:
The Don's office
JOHNNY (as Tom quietly enters the Don's office) A month ago he bought the movie rights to this book. A bestseller – and the main character, it's a guy just like me. I uh – I wouldn't even have to act – just be myself. Oh, godfather, I don't know what to do. I don't know what to do.
VITO CORLEONE You can act like a man! (after the Don slaps him on the face) What's the matter with you? Is this how you turned out? A Hollywood...?.... that ah cries like a woman? (imitating Johnny) What can I do?! What can I do?! (then) What is that nonsense? Ridiculous.
Sonny enters the room.
VITO CORLEONE (to Johnny, after glancing to see Sonny enter) You spend time with your family?
JOHNNY Sure I do.
VITO CORLEONE (to Johnny, but toward and about Sonny) Good. 'Cause a man who doesn't spend time with his family can never be a real m an. (to Johnny) Come're. (then) You look terrible. I want you to eat. I want you to rest a while. And in a month from now, this – Hollywood bigshot's gonna give you what you want.
JOHNNY It's too late, they start shooting in a week.
VITO CORLEONE I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse. (then) Now you just go outside and enjoy yourself, and ah, forget about all this nonsense. I want you to leave it all to me.
JOHNNY (exiting) All right
VITO CORLEONE (after Johnny exits) Well...
CUT TO:
OUTSIDE
The cake comes out. Nazorine, the baker, takes a proud bow. The Tarantella plays again.
CUT TO:
The Don's office
VITO CORLEONE What time does my daughter leave with the bridegroom?
TOM In a few minutes, right after they cut the cake. (as we hear clinking glasses coming from outside, which continues ) Now you're new son-in-law; give him something important?
VITO CORLEONE Never. Give him a living, but never discuss the family business with him. What else?
TOM Virgil Sollozzo called. Now we're gonna have to give him a day sometime next week.
VITO CORLEONE We'll discuss it when you come back from California.
TOM (laughing) When am I going to California?
VITO CORLEONE Want you to go tonight; I want you to talk to this – movie bigshot, and settle this business for Johnny. Now, if there's nothing else, I'd like to go to my daughter's wedding.
CUT TO:
OUTSIDE
Family portrait scene in the yard the clinking glasses have stopped.
MAMA (seeing Carlo and Connie kissing) Carlo, we're gonna take the picture...
MICHAEL (as he goes to get Kay for the photo) Wait a minute...
KAY No, Michael, not me.
PHOTOGRAPHER Okay, that's it. Just like that; now, hold it.
Connie and the Don dance to "The Godfather Waltz (Come Live Your Life With Me)"
CUT TO:
Tom arriving in Hollywood – DAY
By plane, takes a cab, then walks by foot through Woltz International Studios. Music: "Manhattan Serenade" plays.
WOLTZ (who's just walked toward Tom) All right, start talking.
TOM Uh, I was sent by a friend of Johnny Fontane's – His friend is my client, who' d give his undying friendship to Mr. Woltz, if Mr. Woltz would grant us a small favor.
WOLTZ Woltz is listening.
TOM Give Johnny the part in that new war film you're starting next week.
WOLTZ (laughs) And ah, what favor would ah your friend ah grant Mr. Woltz?
TOM You're gonna have some union problems; my client could make then disappear. Also, one of your top stars has just moved from ah marijuana to heroin...
WOLTZ Are you trying to muscle me?
TOM Absolutely not.
WOLTZ Now listen to me, you smooth-talking son-of-a-bitch! Let me lay it on the line for you and your boss, whoever he is. Johnny Fontane will never get that movie! I don't car e how many – daigo guinea WOP greaseball gumbahs come out of the woodwork!
TOM I'm German-Irish...
WOLTZ Well let me tell you something my Kraut Mick friend, I'm gonna make so much trouble for you, you won't know what hit you!
TOM Mr. Woltz, I'm a lawyer, I have not threatened you.
WOLTZ I know almost every big lawyer in New York, who the hell are you?
TOM I have a special practice; I handle one client – Now you have my number; I'll wait for your call – by the way, I admire your pictures very much.
Tom shakes Woltz' hand, then leaves.
WOLTZ (to a staff member) Check him out...
CUT TO:
LATER – EARLY EVENING
Tom and Woltz walking around Woltz' estate. "Manhattan Serenade" plays again.
TOM This is really beautiful.
WOLTZ Well, look at this. It used to decorate the palace of a king.
TOM Oh, yeah; very nice.
WOLTZ Why didn't you say you worked for Corleone, Tom? I thought you were just some c heap two-bit hustler Johnny was running in trying to bluff me.
TOM I don't like to use his name unless it's really necessary.
WOLTZ How's your drink, Tom?
TOM Fine
WOLTZ Hey, come on over here with me; I wanna show you something really beautiful. You do appreciate beauty, don't you? (then) There you are, $600,000 on four hooves. I bet a Russian Czar never paid that kind of dough for a single horse. (toward the horse) Khartoum. Khartoum. (to Tom) I'm not gonna race him, though. I'm gonna put him out to stud.
TOM He's beautiful.
WOLTZ (to stablehand) Thanks, Tony.
TONY You're welcome...
WOLTZ (to Tom) Let's get something to eat, huh?
CUT TO:
INT. WOLTZ'HOUSE – EARLY EVENING
Woltz' dinner table.
TOM Mr. Corleone is Johnny's godfather. To the Italian people, that's a very religious, sacred, close relationship.
WOLTZ I respect that; just tell him he should ask me anything else. But this is one favor I can't give him.
TOM He doesn't ask a second favor once he's been refused the first, understood?
WOLTZ You don't understand. Johnny Fontane never gets that movie. That part is perfect for him; it'll make him a big star. And I'm gonna run him out of the business, and let m e tell you why. (after he stands) Johnny Fontane ruined one of Woltz International's most valuable proteges. For five years we had her under training. Singing lessons; acting lessons, dancing lessons. I spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on her. I was gonna make her a big star! And let me be even more frank, just to show you that I'm not a hard-hearted man, and it's not all dollars and cents. She was beautiful; she was young, she was innocent. She was the greatest piece of ass I ever had, and I had'em all over the world! And then Johnny Fontane comes along with his olive-oil voice, and guinea charm. And she runs off. She threw it all away just to make me look ridiculous! And a man in my position can't afford to be made to look ridiculous ! Now you get the hell outta here! And if that gumbah tries any rough stuff, you tell him I ain't no band leader! Yeah, I heard that story...
TOM Thank you for the dinner and a very pleasant evening. If your car could take me to the airport; Mr. Corleone is a man who insists on hearing bad news immediately.
Tom nods, then exits.
CUT TO:
pan of exterior of Woltz' estate – DAWN
Music is a variation of the Title Theme, then we see the interior of Woltz' bedroom. Woltz awakens in a pool of blood, and finds Khartoum's severed head in his bed; and SCREAMS ah - ah - ah - ah - ah!
CUT TO:
closeup of Vito Corleone's face
He nods.
VITO CORLEONE You're not too tired, are you, Tom?
TOM No, no. I slept on the plane. (as we see Sollozzo entering the Don's office from the street) I have the Sollozzo notes here. Now – Sollozzo is known as 'The Turk.' He's supposed to be very good with a knife, but only in matters of business or some sort of reasonable complaint. Uh, his business is narcotics. He has fields in Turkey where they grow the poppy. And in Sicily he has the plants to process them into heroin. Now – he needs cash, and he needs protection from the police, for which he gives a piece of the action – I couldn't find out how much. The Tattaglia family is behind him here in New York. Now they have to be in it for something.
CUT TO:
Sonny introducing himself to Sollozzo – DAY
Shaking hands.
SONNY Sonny Corleone...
CUT TO:
Back to Don, Sonny and Tom before the meeting – evening
VITO CORLEONE What about his prison record?
TOM Two terms. One in Italy, one here. He's known as a top narcotics man.
VITO CORLEONE Santino? Whattaya think?
SONNY There's a lot of money in that white powder.
VITO CORLEONE Tom?
TOM (Sollozzo scenes still intercut) Well, I say yes. There's more money potential in narcotics than anything else we're looking at. Now if we don't get into it, somebody else will. Maybe one of the Five Families, maybe all of them. Now with the money they earn, they can buy more police and political power; then they come after us. Now we have the unions, we have the gambling; an' they 're the best things to have. But narcotics is a thing of the future. An' if we don't get a piece of that action, we risk everything we have – I mean not now, but ah ten years from now .
SONNY So, what's your answer gonna be, Pop?
CUT TO:
Sollozzo meeting in Don Corleone's Genco office – DAY
Scene includes the Don, Sollozzo, Tom, Sonny, Fredo, Clemenza, and Tessio sitting in Room #2.
SOLLOZZO Bene. Don Corleone. I need a man who has powerful friends. I need a million dol lars in cash. I need, Don Corleone, those politicians that you carry in your pocket, like so many nickels and dimes.
VITO CORLEONE What is the interests for my family?
SOLLOZZO Thirty percent. In the first year, your end should be three-four-million dollars. And then it would go up.
VITO CORLEONE And what is the interest for the Tattaglia Family?
SOLLOZZO (to Tom) My compliments. (to Don Corleone) I'll take care of the Tattaglia's, outta my share.
VITO CORLEONE So I receive thirty percent for finance – political influence, and legal protection, that's what your telling me?
SOLLOZZO That's right
VITO CORLEONE Why do you come to me? Why do I deserve this generosity?
SOLLOZZO If you consider a million dollars in cash just finance, te salute, Don Corleone.
VITO CORLEONE (gets up to pour Sollozzo another drink) I said that I would see you because, I heard that you're a serious man, to be treated with respect. (after sitting) But uh, I must say no to you – and I'll give you my reasons. It's true, I have a lot of friends in politics, but they wouldn't be friendly very long if they knew my business w as drugs instead of gambling, which they rule that as a – harmless vice. But drugs is a dirty business.
SOLLOZZO Don Corleone...
VITO CORLEONE It – makes – it doesn't make any difference to me what a man does for a living, understand. But your business is ah – a little dangerous.
SOLLOZZO If you're worried about security for your million, the Tattaglia's will guarantee it.
SONNY Aw, you're telling me that the Tattaglia's guarantee our investment?
VITO CORLEONE (to Sonny) Wait a minute...
Clemenza and Tom look at each other, realizing Sonny's faux pas. Sollozzo notices this.
VITO CORLEONE (to Sollozzo) I have a sentimental weakness for my children, and I spoil them as you can see; they talk when they should listen. But, anyway, Signor Sollozzo, my no is final, and I wish to congratulate you on your new business, and I hope you do very well. and good luck to you – as best as your interests don't conflict with my interests. Thank you.
The group begins to leave the room: Sollozzo, Clemenza, Tessio, Fredo.
VITO CORLEONE Santino, come're. Whattsa matter with you? I think your brain is going soft fro m all that comedy your playing with that young girl. Never tell anybody outside the family what you're thinking again! (then) Go on... (after Sonny exits) Tom... (after a huge flower arrangement appears at the office entrance) What – what is this nonsense?
TOM It's from ah Johnny, staring in that new, ah, film.
VITO CORLEONE Ah – Well, take it away.
TOM (to person holding flowers) Take it over there.
VITO CORLEONE And uh, tell Luca Brasi to come in.
CUT TO:
Luca sits down in front of the Don – DAY
We hear scary Luca-like music.
VITO CORLEONE I'm a little worried about this Sollozzo fella. I want you to find out what he' s got under his fingernails, ya'know. Go to the ah Tattaglia's, and ah, make them think that ah you're – you're not too happy with our family and – and ah find out what you can.
FADE IN:
EXT. BEST & CO – DAY
Michael and Kay Christmas shopping. "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" is playing.
KAY I got something – I got something for your mother, and for Sonny, and a tie for Freddy, and Tom Hagen got the Reynolds pen...
MICHAEL And what do you want for Christmas?
KAY Me? Oh, just you.
CUT TO:
Luca Brasi getting ready for his meeting – NIGHT
Putting on his vest and checking his gun.
INT. HOTEL ROOM – DAY
Mike and Kay are in a hotel room bed. The phone rings, and Kay picks up.
VOICE ON THE PHONE Good afternoon, it's 3 o'clock
KAY (into phone) Thank you.... (to Michael, after hanging up the phone) Michael, it's 3 o'clock
MICHAEL (barely awake) Wha?
KAY (laughs) It's 3 o'clock – we hafta get up – because we have to go to your father's house...
MICHAEL Why do we have to?
KAY (laughing) Because we have to, ya know.
MICHAEL If we go to my father's house –
KAY Uh-huh...
MICHAEL – we can't push the beds together...
KAY (laughs) Why not?
MICHAEL Because they're in separate rooms.
KAY (laughs) Well, alright then – I – then – we won't go – we won't tell your father...
MICHAEL Okay...
KAY You know, we'll just get married first – and we'll tell'em later...
MICHAEL I can't do that...
KAY Then Michael, get outta bed.
MICHAEL We'll go tomorrow...
KAY Michael, they're expecting us!
MICHAEL Oh, Kay – get the phone...
KAY What are you gonna do?
MICHAEL Just get the phone...
Kay gives Michael the phone, and he picks up the receiver and the operator responds.
OPERATOR (over the phone) Yes, may I help you?
MICHAEL (into phone) Hi, may I please have Orchard-9-9539 please...
KAY What are you doing? – What are you doing?
MICHAEL (to Kay) You're going to be the long-distance operator from New Hampshire. (after Kay laughs) Come on...
KAY (laughing) I can't do this.
MICHAEL You gotta – come on...
TOM'S VOICE (over phone) Hello?
KAY (pretending to be an operator, into phone) Hello, this is long distance calling – I have a collect call from Mr. Michael Corleone – um, will you accept the charges?
TOM'S VOICE (over phone) Yes...
KAY (pretending to be an operator, into phone) One moment, please...
Kay hands Michael the receiver. He inaudibly asks Kay who it is, but she doesn't know.
MICHAEL (into phone) Hello?
TOM'S VOICE Hello?
MICHAEL (into phone) Hello, Tom, how are you?
TOM'S VOICE Hi, Mike, how are you?
MICHAEL (into phone) Listen – we're up in New Hampshire still – we're gonna drive down tomorrow mo rning...
The beds on which Michael and Kay are laying, pushed together, begin to separate.
TOM Is there anything I can do for you?
MICHAEL'S VOICE No, ah – we're fine. Now, I'm – I'm gonna see you Christmas – everybody's go in' out to the mall?
TOM'S VOICE Right...
MICHAEL Okay...
TOM'S VOICE Right, Mikey...
MICHAEL (as the beds separate, and Michael and Kay fall between them) Bye, Tom...
CUT TO:
Don Corleone's office on Mott Street – early evening
VITO CORLEONE Andiamo, Fredo. Tell Paulie to get the car; we're going.
FREDO Okay, Pop – I'll have to get it myself, Pop; Paulie called in sick this morning.
VITO CORLEONE Huh?!
FREDO (exiting) Paulie's a good kid, I don't mind getting the car.
The office manager helps the Don with his coat.
VITO CORLEONE (to office manager) Buon nateli, Dano. Grazie
CUT TO:
Luca Brasi walking down hallway to the bar – night
CUT TO:
Luca Brasi's meeting at Tattaglia's bar – night
BRUNO TATTAGLIA Luca, I'm Bruno Tattaglia.
LUCA I know
BRUNO TATTAGLIA Su bequero Scotch? Pre-war...
LUCA Io no bib' "I don't drink".
SOLLOZZO You know who I am?
LUCA (in Italian) I know you.
SOLLOZZO (in Italian) You have been talking to the Tattaglia family... right? I think you and I can do business. I need someone strong like you. I heard you are not happy – with the Corleone family. Want to join me?.
LUCA (in Italian) What's in it for me?.
SOLLOZZO (in Italian) $50,000 – to start with..
LUCA (in Italian) Not bad.
SOLLOZZO (offering his hand to Luca; in Italian) Agreed?
Luca doesn't shake. He takes out a cigarette, which Bruno lights.
LUCA Grazie.
Bruno grabs Luca's hand to the bar, Sollozzo rams a knife into it, and Luca is garroted by an unidentified buttonman.
CUT TO:
EXT. CITY STREET – EARLY MORNING
Sollozzo kidnaps Tom Hagen on the city street while Tom's Christmas shopping.
Tom is carrying a sled and some tied-up boxes. "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town" is playing.
SOLLOZZO Tom! Tom Hagen! Merry Christmas! (after Tom nods) Heh, I'm glad I run into you; I want to talk to you.
TOM Well I haven't got time
SOLLOZZO Aw, make time, consiglieri. Get in the car. (then) What are you worried about? If I wanted to kill you, you'd be dead already. (then) Get in.
DISSOLVE TO:
The Don and Fredo leaving the Genco office – late afternoon
VITO CORLEONE Aspetta, Fredo; I'm gonna buy some fruit aspetta – wait.
FREDO (getting into the driver's seat of the car) Okay, Pop
VITO CORLEONE (to merchant) Hi, merry Christmas; I wan some fruit over there. What is this? Gimme three. And that one...
After the don gets some oranges and a green pepper, he hears footsteps , then running. He begins to run toward the car, he stumbles and falls onto the car. The shooters shoot about 10 shots at him. The Don screams Uh!, falls over, the assassins run, and the Don falls to the curb.
FREDO (gets out of the car, fumbling with the gun, then sits on the curb crying) I can't – I can't – Papa!!
CUT TO:
EXT. RADIO CITY MUSIC HALL – EVENING
Michael and Kay walking outside of Radio City Music Hall, which is showing Leo McCarey's "The Bells of St. Mary's" which Michael and Kay just saw. Music playing is "Bells of St. Mary's".
KAY Mike, would you like me better if I were a nun? Like in the story, you know?
MICHAEL (after pausing) No.
KAY Then would you like me better if I were Ingrid Bergman?
MICHAEL Now that's a thought...
KAY (shaken) Michael...
MICHAEL No, I would not like you better if you were Ingrid Bergman.
KAY (upset) Michael...
MICHAEL What's the matter?
KAY Michael...
They walk back to a newsstand they just passed, and Michael picks up The Daily Mirror which has the headline: "VITO CORLEONE FEARED MURDERED". He flips the pages to reveal an inside article: "Assassins Gun Down Underworld Chief".
MICHAEL They don't say if he's dead or alive...
They run across the street to a phone booth to call Sonny, as "Mystery Music" plays, an excerpt from the Title Theme.
MICHAEL (into the phone) Sonny – Michael.
SONNY'S VOICE (over the phone) Michael, where you been?
MICHAEL (into the phone) Is he all right?
SONNY'S VOICE (over the phone) We don't know yet. There's all kinds of stories. (after a sigh) He was hit bad, Mikey... (then) Are you there?
MICHAEL (into the phone) Yeah, I'm here.
SONNY'S VOICE (over the phone) Where you been? I was worried.
MICHAEL (into the phone) Didn't Tom tell you? I called.
SONNY'S VOICE (over the phone) No – look, come home, kid. You should be with Mama, ya'hear?
MICHAEL (into the phone) Alright...
CUT TO:
INT. SONNY'S HOUSE – NIGHT
Just after talking to Michael on the phone. Sonny hangs up.
SANDRA (sadly hugging Sonny) Oh my God...
There's a loud crash heard off screen from outside the house.
SANDRA (as the baby starts to cry) Oh! Sonny!
Sonny searches for and finds his gun from a drawer.
SONNY (to Sandra, at the door, after hearing knocking) Get back – go. (to the door) Who is it?
CLEMENZA'S VOICE (through the door) Open up – It's Clemenza.
SONNY (after letting him in) What?
CLEMENZA (entering) There's more news about your old man. The word is out on the street that he's already dead.
SONNY Watch your mouth – what's the matter with you?
CLEMENZA (after being pushed up against the wall) Jesus Christ; take it easy – take it easy
SONNY Where was Paulie?
CLEMENZA Paulie was out sick. He been calling sick all winter.
SONNY How many times has he been sick?
CLEMENZA Only maybe three or four times. I mean –
SONNY 3, 4 times?
CLEMENZA – I asked Freddy if he wants me to get a different bodyguard and he said no.
SONNY Listen, do me a favor, pick him up right now, I don't care how sick he is. If he's breathing, I want you to bring him to my father's house. Now, you understand? Now.
CLEMENZA Yeah. You want me to send any people over here?
SONNY No. No. No – Just you and him. Ga'head.
Clemenza leaves.
SONNY (to Sandra, who's holding the crying baby) Look, uh... I'll be having some people come over to the house. A couple of our people...
Sonny's phone rings, and he picks up.
SONNY (into the phone) Hello?
SOLLOZZO'S VOICE (over the phone) Santino Corleone?
SONNY (into the phone, and Sandra leaves the room with the baby) Yeah...
SOLLOZZO'S VOICE (over the phone) We have Tom Hagen. In about three hours he'll be released with our proposition –
Sonny checks his watch, then writes the time onto the kitchen cabinet.
SOLLOZZO'S VOICE (over the phone, continues) – Listen to everything he has to say before you do anything. What's done is done. (then) And don't lose that famous temper of yours, uh Sonny?
SONNY (into the phone) No, I'll wait...
Sollozzo hangs up, then Sonny hangs up.
CUT TO:
INT. An abandoned diner – NIGHT
Sollozzo with kidnapped Tom Hagen.
SOLLOZZO (drinking coffee, to Tom) Your boss is dead. I know you're not in the muscle-end of the family, Tom, so I don't want you to be scared. I want you to help the Corleone's, and I want you to help me. (handing Tom a drink) Yeah, we got him outside his office just about an hour after we picked you up. (then) Drink it. (then) So now it's up to you to make the peace between me and Sonny. (then) Sonny was hot for my deal, wasn't he? And you knew it was the right thing to do.
TOM Sonny'll come after you with everything he's got.
SOLLOZZO That'll be his first reaction, sure. That's why you gotta talk some sense into him. The Tattaglia family is behind me with all their people. The other New York Families will go along with anything that will prevent a full-scale war. Let's face it, Tom, and all due respect, the Don, rest in peace, was – slippin'. Ten years ago could I have gotten to him? (then) Well – now he's dead. He's dead, Tom, and nothing can bring him back. So you gotta talk to Sonny, you gotta talk to the caporegimes, that Tessio and Fat Clemenza. (then) It's good business, Tom.
TOM I'll try, but even Sonny won't be able to call off Luca Brasi.
SOLLOZZO Yeah, well, let me worry about Luca. (then) You just talk to Sonny – and the other two kids.
TOM I'll to my best.
SOLLOZZO Good. Now, you can go. (while walking out) I don't like violence, Tom. I'm a business man. Blood is a big expense.
Outside, a car, sounding its horn, pulls up; Sollozzo goes to talk to them, and returns.
SOLLOZZO He's still alive. They hit 'em with five shots, and he's still alive! Well that' s bad luck for me, and bad luck for you if you don't make that deal!
CUT TO:
Michael arrives at Corleone compound – NIGHT
A car drop him off at the gate, and he goes inside, seeing family and friends.
CLEMENZA (sitting with his wife, stands to greet Michael) Mike – Your mother's over in the hospital with your father; looks like he's gonna pull through, thank God.
CUT TO:
The Don's office – NIGHT
With Sonny, Tom, Mike, Tessio, & Clemenza.
SONNY (b.g., to Tom) Whattaya think –
TOM (b.g., to Sonny) Too much...
SONNY (b.g., to Tom) Huh?
CLEMENZA (b.g., to Tessio) ... it's a lot of bad blood. Sollozzo, Philip Tattaglia, Bruno Tattaglia; Garbone...
TOM (b.g., to Sonny) It's too far – I think it's too personal... The Don'll consider this all...
MICHAEL (to Clemenza) You kill all those guys?
SONNY Hey, stay out of it, Mickey; do me a favor.
TOM Sollozzo's the key. You get rid of him, every falls into line. Now what about Luca? Sollozzo thinks he's...
SONNY Aw – I don't know – if Luca sold out we're in a lot of trouble, believe me. A lot of trouble.
TOM Has anyone been able to get in touch with Luca?
CLEMENZA Eh, I've been trying all night. He might be shacked up.
SONNY Hey, Mick, do me a favor –
TOM (b.g., to Clemenza) Luca never sleeps over with a broad – he always goes home when he's through...
SONNY (to Michael) – try ringing him... (to Tom) Well, Tom – you're consiglieri, now what do we do if the old man dies, God for bid.
TOM If we lose the old man – we lose our political contacts and half our strength. The other New York Families might wind up supporting Sollozzo just to avoid a long – destructive war. This is almost 1946, nobody wants bloodshed anymore. If your father dies... (then) ... you make the deal, Sonny.
SONNY That's easy for you to say, Tom, he's not your father!
TOM I'm as much a son to him as you or Mike.
knock on door.
SONNY What is it?
Paulie enters.
CLEMENZA Hey, Paulie, I thought I told you to stay put.
PAULIE Well, the guy at the gates say – say they got a package.
SONNY Yeah? Hey, Tessio, go see what it is.
PAULIE (to Sonny, after Tessio exits) You want me to hang around?
SONNY Yeah, hang around. You all right?
PAULIE Yeah, I'm fine
SONNY Yeah? –
Paulie coughs, perhaps deliberately.
SONNY – There's some food in the icebox, you hungry or anything?
PAULIE Nah, it's alright – thanks...
SONNY How 'bout a drink? Have a little brandy – that'll help sweat it out. Huh? Go ahead, baby...
PAULIE Alright, sure – that might be a good idea...
SONNY Yeah, right. (to Clemenza, after Paulie exits) I want you to take care of that sonofabitch right away. Paulie sold out the old man, that stronz'. I don't want to see him again. Make that first thing on your list, understand?
CLEMENZA Understood.
SONNY Hey, Mickey, tomorrow – get a couple of guys, you go over to Luca's apartment; hang around, waitin' for him to show up...
TOM Uh maybe we shouldn't get Mike uh mixed up in this too directly .
SONNY Yeah, listen, uh... hang around the house on the phone an' be a big help, huh? (then) Try Luca again – go'head
Tessio enters with package, which he places on Sonny's lap.
SONNY (unwrapping the package of Luca's bulletproof vest-wrapped fish) What the hell is this?
CLEMENZA It's a Sicilian message. It means Luca Brasi sleeps with the fishes.
Michael hangs up the phone.
CUT TO:
Clemenza leaves his house – morning
Some boys are playing, one is pushing the other in a toy car as the latter yells "ah!".
CLEMENZA (to his wife, on his front stoop) I'm goin' now...
MRS. CLEMENZA (standing in the door) What time will you be home tonight?
CLEMENZA (walking to the car) I don't know, probably late.
MRS. CLEMENZA (O.S.) Don't forget the cannoli!
CLEMENZA (getting into the car, as is Rocco) Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah...
PAULIE (in the driver's seat) Rocco, sit on the other side. You block the rearview mirror.
CLEMENZA That Sonny's runnin' wild. He's thinkin'a going to the mattresses already. We g otta find a spot over on the West Side. Ya try – 309 West 43rd Street. You know any gooda spots on the West Side?
PAULIE Yeah, I think about it.
CLEMENZA Well think about it while you're drivin', will ya? I wanna hit New York sometime this month. (then) And watch out for the kids while you're backin' out.
CUT TO:
Driving under the El Tracks – day
CLEMENZA'S VOICE Hey, Paulie, I want you to go down 39th Street – Carlo Santos – you pick up 18 –
PAULIE'S VOICE Yeah...
CLEMENZA'S VOICE (continuing) – mattresses for the guys to sleep, while you bring me the bill...
PAULIE'S VOICE Uh-huh, yeah, alright... That...?... bill
CLEMENZA'S VOICE Ya'know, you make sure they're clean, cuz those guys'll be stuck up in there for a long time, ya'know?
PAULIE'S VOICE They're clean. They told me they exterminate them .
CLEMENZA'S VOICE (as Rocco laughs) Exterminate? That's a bad word to use: exterminate! Get this guy. Watch out we don't exterminate you laughs.
PAULIE'S VOICE You think that's funny, or what?
CLEMENZA'S VOICE (laughs with Rocco) Hey, Paulie – (in Italian) Did you fart?.
PAULIE'S VOICE Hey, Rocco, what did you do?
ROCCO'S VOICE (laughs) Not me – nothin' – it wasn't me
PAULIE'S VOICE (laughs) It's gotta be him, then...
CLEMENZA'S VOICE Pull over, will yah? I gotta take a leak.
Paulie pulls over, and Clemenza gets out to relieve himself. Rocco shoots Paulie three times as we hear a variation of the "Title Theme" music.
CLEMENZA Leave the gun. Take the cannoli.
CUT TO:
Outside the Don's kitchen – DAY
Michael is sitting on a bench.
CLEMENZA'S VOICE (O.S.) Hey, Mike! Hey, Mikey?
MICHAEL Yeah?
CLEMENZA'S VOICE (O.S.) You're wanted on the telephone.
MICHAEL (entering the kitchen) Who is it?
CLEMENZA Some girl... the music ends.
MICHAEL (into phone) Hello, Kay?
KAY'S VOICE (over the phone) How's your father?
MICHAEL (into the phone) He's good. He's gonna make it.
KAY'S VOICE (over the phone) I love you.
MICHAEL (into the phone) Huh?
KAY'S VOICE (over the phone, louder) I love you. (then) Michael?
MICHAEL (into the phone) Yeah, I know.
KAY'S VOICE (over the phone) Tell me you love me...
MICHAEL (into the phone) I can't talk...
KAY'S VOICE (over the phone) Can't you say it?
MICHAEL (into the phone) Eh – I'll see you tonight.
KAY'S VOICE Okay
Michael hangs up the phone.
CLEMENZA Hey, Mikey, why don't you tell that nice girl you love her? (in an exaggerated Italian accent) I love you with all-a my heart! If I don't see you again soon, I'm a-gonna die! (laughs) Heh, come over here, kid, learn something. You never know, you might have to cook for twenty guys someday. You see, you start out with a little bit of oil. Then you fry some garlic. Then you throw in some tomatoes, tomato paste, your fry it; ya make sure it doesn't stick. You get it to a boil; you shove in all your sausage and your meatballs; heh?... And a little bit o'wine. An a little bit o'sugar, and that's my trick.
SONNY (after entering the kitchen) Why don't you cut out the crap. I got more important things for you to do. (then) How's Paulie?
CLEMENZA Oh, Paulie? Won't see him no more...
SONNY (nods; then to Michael, who's walking out of the kitchen) Where you going?
MICHAEL To the city.
SONNY No... wanna send some bodyguards with him – alright?
MICHAEL ... no, I'm just going to the hospital to see pop.
SONNY Never mind; send somebody with him
CLEMENZA Aw, he'll be alright – Sollozzo knows he's a civilian
SONNY Alright; be careful, huh?
MICHAEL (as he exits) Yes, sir...
SONNY Send somebody with him, anyway...
Clemenza chuckles.
CUT TO:
Michael goes to the city – early evening
Driven by bodyguards.
CUT TO:
Kay's hotel room
Michael and Kay are eating dinner, while "All of My Life" plays.
MICHAEL (as he gets up to get his coat) I have to go...
KAY Can I go with you?
MICHAEL You know, Kay, there's gonna be detectives there – people from the press...
KAY Well, I'll ride in the cab...
MICHAEL I don't want you to get involved...
KAY When will I see you again?
MICHAEL (after a long pause) Go back to New Hampshire, and I'll call you at your parents' house.
KAY When will I see you again, Michael?
MICHAEL I don't know...
Michael kisses Kay, then exits.
DISSOLVE TO:
The hospital (10:30pm)
Michael arrives by cab. He enters the quiet hospital to find no one at the nurse's station. He walks down the hall to check an office, and only sees a half-finished sandwich on a desk. He runs down the hall and up the stairs towards his father's room. He pauses, noticing there is no guard outside the Don's door. He walks around the corner up to Room #2 and hesitates before he pushing the door open. His father is in the bed, and Michael wonders if he's alive. He walks up to the Don.
NURSE (entering the room) What are you doing here? You're not supposed to be here now!
MICHAEL I'm Michael Corleone – this is my father. (then) There's nobody here. What happened to the guards?
NURSE Your father just had too many visitors. They interfered with hospital service. The police made them leave about ten minutes ago.
As the nurse checks the Don's pulse, Michael picks up the phone.
MICHAEL (into phone) Ah, Get me, ah, Long Beach-4-5620, please... (to nurse, who was leaving the room) Nurse, wait a minute. Stay here. (into phone) Sonny, Michael. I'm at the hospital.
SONNY'S VOICE (over the phone) Yeah?
MICHAEL (into the phone) Listen – I got here late. There's nobody here.
SONNY'S VOICE (over the phone) What? Nobody?
MICHAEL (into the phone) Nobody... no no no Tessio's men, no detectives, nobody. Papa's all alone.
MICHAEL (as he checks to see if the bed would fit through the doorway) Uhh... You and I are gonna moo – move my father to another room. Now can you disconnect those tubes so we can move the bed out?
NURSE That's out of the question!
MICHAEL You know my father? Men are coming here to kill him. You understand? Now help m e, please.
Michael and nurse roll the Don's bed to another room. We hear a door close, then footsteps are heard coming up the stairs as Michael peers from the doorway. A man holding flowers seems to be looking for a room.
MICHAEL (coming out of hiding) Who are you?
ENZO I am Enzo, the baker – Do you remember me?
MICHAEL Enzo...
ENZO Yes, Enzo...
MICHAEL You better get out of here, Enzo; there's gonna be trouble...
ENZO If there is trouble, I stay here to help you. For your father – for your father.
MICHAEL Alright... Listen, wait for me outside in front of the hospital. Alright? I'll be out in a minute. Go ahead...
ENZO Okay... okay.
Michael returns to the Don's room, at his bedside. The nurse is still in the room.
MICHAEL Just lie here, Pop. I'll take care of you now. I'm with you now. I'm with you...
Michael kisses the Don's hand; the Don smiles, with a tear in his eye. Michael leaves to meet Enzo outside of the hospital.
MICHAEL (grabbing and tossing the flowers that Enzo is still holding) Get rid of these (as Michael turns Enzo's collar up) Come 'ere... Put your hand in your pocket like you have a gun. You'll be alright. (after he sighs) You'll be okay...
A black car pulls up to the front of the hospital. The occupants look at Michael and Enzo, as Michael undoes a button of his coat and puts his hand in, as if he had a gun. The car then drives off.
MICHAEL You did good.
Enzo, very scared, takes out a cigarette and has trouble lighting it with his Zippo lighter. His hands are shaking. Michael takes the lighter and lights his cigarette, noticing that his hands are not shaking. Moments later, sirens are heard as police cars screech to a halt in front of the hospital. Michael shoos Enzo away as he is grabbed by an officer.
OFFICER (grabbing Michael) Now hold still...
CAPTAIN MCCLUSKEY (entering the scene) I thought I got all you guinea hoods locked up! What the hell are you doing here?
MICHAEL What happened to the men who were guarding my father, captain?
MCCLUSKEY Why you little punk! What the hell are you doing telling me my business? I pulled them guys off of here, eh! Now you get outta here – and stay away from this hospital!
MICHAEL I'm not moving until you put some guards around my father's room.
MCCLUSKEY Phil, take him in!
OFFICER PHIL The kid's clean, Captain. He's a war hero. He's never been busted for the rackets...
MCCLUSKEY (overlaps) Goddamn it, I said take him in!
MICHAEL What's the Turk paying you to set up my father, Captain?
MCCLUSKEY Take a hold of him. Stand him up. Stand'im up straight.
McCluskey punches Michael in the jaw as a Corleone car screeches up. Men get out and run up the steps toward the Don's room. Tom and a couple of men go to get Michael.
TOM I'm attorney for the Corleone family. These men are private detectives hired to protect Vito Corleone. They're licensed to carry firearms. If you interfere, you'll have to appear before a judge in the morning and show cause.
MCCLUSKEY (to his officers) Alright... let'im go. (inaudible "Shit!" as he turns away) Come on!
DISSOLVE TO:
Corleone mall – DAY
Clemenza and Michael get out of a car and walk through the gate, noticing armed men all over the mall. Tessio greets them.
CLEMENZA What's with all the new faces?
TESSIO We'll need'em now. After the hospital thing, Sonny got mad. We hit Bruno Tattaglia 4 o'clock this morning.
CLEMENZA Jesus Christ... (motions to Michael to come on) It looks like a fortress around here...
CUT TO:
Inside the Corleone office – day
SONNY (to Tom) Tom-anuch! Hey, a hundred button men on the street twenty-four hours a day; that Turk shows one hair on his ass, he's dead –
TOM (going to sit down) Yeah?
SONNY – believe me... (to Michael, whose face is bruised from McCluskey's punch) Hey, Michael, come're, let me look at you. You look beautiful! Beautiful! Just gorgeous! (to Tom) Hey, listen to this – the Turk wants to talk. Eh gosh – imagine the nerve of the sonofabitch, eh? Craps out last night, and wants a meetin' today...
TOM What did he say?
SONNY What did he say – Badda-beep, badda-bap, badda-boop, badda-beep – He wants us to send Michael here to proposition. And the promise is, that the deal is so good, that we can't refuse. Eh...
TOM (as Tessio enters the room) What about Bruno Tattaglia?
SONNY That's part of the deal – Bruno cancels out what they did to my father...
TOM Sonny, we ought to hear what they have to say...
SONNY (standing in front of Tom, who's seated) No, no, no! No more! Not this time, consiglieri. No more meetin's, no more discussions, no more Sollozzo tricks. You give'em one message: I want Sollozzo – if not, it's all-out war – we go to the mattresses...
TOM (stands) Some of the other families won't sit still for all-out war!
SONNY Then they hand me Sollozzo!
TOM You're father wouldn't want to hear this! This is business, not personal, Sonny !
SONNY They shot my father – that's business? Your ass...
TOM Even the shooting of your father was business, not personal, Sonny!
SONNY (now seated behind the desk) Well, then, business will have to suffer, alright? And listen – do me a favor , Tom – No more advice on how to patch things up, please. Just help me win, please, alright?
TOM (after they settle down) I found out about this Captain McCluskey who broke Mike's jaw...
SONNY What about 'im?
TOM Now he's definitely on Sollozzo's payroll, and for big money. McCluskey has agreed to be the Turk's bodyguard. What you have to understand, Sonny, is that while Sollozzo is being guarded like this, he is invulnerable. Now nobody has ever gunned down a New York police captain – never. It would be disastrous. All the Five Families would come after you, Sonny. The Corleone Family would be outcasts! Even the old man's political protection would run for cover! So do me a favor – take this into consideration.
SONNY Alright. We'll wait.
MICHAEL We can't wait.
SONNY Huh?
MICHAEL (who's seated with his arms on the chair's arms) We can't wait. I don't care what Sollozzo says about a deal, he's gonna kill Pop, that's it. That's the key for him. Gotta get Sollozzo.
CLEMENZA Mike is right...
SONNY Lemme ask you something...? What about McCluskey? Huh? What do we do with this – cop here?
MICHAEL They wanna to have a meeting with me, right? It will be me – McCluskey – and Sollozzo. Let's set the meeting. Get our informers to find out where it's gonna be held. Now, we insist it's a public place – a bar, a restaurant – some place where there's people so I feel safe. They're gonna search me when I first meet them, right? so I can't have a weapon on me then. But if Clemenza can figure a way – to have a weapon planted there for me, then I'll kill 'em both.
Clemenza, Tessio and Sonny laugh. Tom shrugs.
SONNY Hey, whataya gonna do, nice college boy, eh? Didn't want to get mixed up in the Family business, huh? Now you wanna gun down a police captain, why, because he slapped ya in the face a little bit? Hah? What do you think this is, the Army, where you shoot 'em a mile away? You've gotta get up close like this and bada-bing! you blow their brains all over your nice Ivy League suit. Come're...
MICHAEL (as Sonny kisses his head) Sonny...
SONNY You're taking this very personal. Tom, this is business and this man is taking it very very personal.
MICHAEL Where does it say that you can't kill a cop?
HAGEN Come on, Mikey...
MICHAEL Tom, wait a minute. I'm talking about a cop – that's mixed up in drugs. I'm talking about ah... ah... a dishonest cop – a crooked cop who got mixed up in the rackets and got what was coming to him. That's a terrific story. And we have newspaper people on the pay roll, don't we, Tom? Hagen nods in the affirmative. And they might like a story like that.
HAGEN They might, they just might...
MICHAEL It's not personal, Sonny. It's strictly business.
CUT TO:
Clemenza's Cellar – DAY
Clemenza is showing Michael the gun he's to use.
CLEMENZA It's as cold as they come – impossible to trace, so you don't worry about prints, Mike. I put a special tape on the trigger, and the butt. Here, try it... (after Michael tries it but doesn't shoot it) What's the matter, the trigger too tight?
MICHAEL (after shooting the gun) Oh, my ears...
CLEMENZA (laughs) Yeah, I left it noisy – that way it scares any pain-in-the-ass innocent bystanders away. (then) All right, you shot'em both – now what do you do?
MICHAEL Sit down, finish my dinner...
CLEMENZA Come on kid, don't fool around. Just let your hand drop to your side, and let the gun slip out. Everybody'll still think you got it. They're gonna be staring at your face, Mike – so walk outta the place real fast – but you don't run. Don't look nobody directly in the eye – but you don't look away, either. Hey, they're gonna be scared still of you, believe me, so don't worry about nothin'. You know, you're going to turn out all right. You take a long vacation – nobody knows where – and we're gonna catch the hell.
MICHAEL How bad do you think it's gonna be?
CLEMENZA Pretty goddamn bad. Probably all the other Families will line up against us. That's alright – this things gotta happen every five years or so – ten years – helps to get rid of the bad blood. Been ten years since the last one. You know you got to stop them at the beginning, like they should have stopped Hitler at Munich, They should've never let him get away with that. They were just asking for big trouble. You know, Mike, we was all proud of you – being a hero and all. Your father, too.
Clemenza hands Michael the gun after adjusting it. Michael points and fires the unloaded gun.
CUT TO:
The Corleone Dining Room (6:30pm)
Sonny, Clemenza, Tessio and Rocco are sitting around, eating Chinese food while waiting for news about where the Sollozzo meeting will take place. Michael smokes as the others eat.
TOM (as he enters) Nothing. Not a hint. Absolutely nothing – even Sollozzo's people don't know wh ere the meeting's going to be held.
MICHAEL How much time do we have?
SONNY (checking his watch) They're gonna pick you up in front of Jack Dempsey's joint in an hour and a half. Exactly an hour and a half.
CLEMENZA We could put a tail on them and see how it turns out...
SONNY Sollozzo'd lose our ass going around the block!
TOM What about the negotiator?
CLEMENZA He's over at my place playin' pinochle with a couple of my men. He's happy, the y're lettin' him win...
TOM There's too much of a risk for Mike – maybe we outta call it off, Sonny.
CLEMENZA The negotiator keeps on playing cards until Mike comes back safe and sound.
SONNY So why don't he just blast whoever's in the goddamn car?
CLEMENZA Too dangerous – they'd be lookin' for that.
TOM Sollozzo might not even be in the car, Sonny!
The phone rings, Sonny gets up to get it.
SONNY I'll get it. (into the phone) Yeah – Yeah – Well, thanks... (after hanging up the phone and returning to the table) Louis' Restaurant in the Bronx.
TOM Well is it reliable?
SONNY That's my man in McCluskey's precinct. A police captain's gotta be on call twenty-four hours a day. He signed out at that number between eight and ten. Anybody know this joint?
TESSIO Yeah, sure, I do. It's perfect for us. A small family place, good food. Everyone minds his business. It's perfect. Pete they got an old-fashion toilet – you know, the box, and... and... and... ah the chain-thing. We might be able to tape the gun behind it.
CLEMENZA All right, Mike: you go to the restaurant, you eat, you talk for a while, you relax. You make them relax. Then you get up and you go take a leak. No – better still – you ask for permission to go. Then when you come back, you come out blastin', and don't take any chances – two shots in the head apiece.
SONNY Listen, I want somebody good – and I mean very good – to plant that gun. I don't want my brother coming out of that toilet with just his dick in his hands, alright?
CLEMENZA The gun'll be there...
SONNY All right (to Tessio) Listen, you drive him and you pick him up after the job, okay?
CLEMENZA Come on, let's move...
As they're standing by the door, preparing to leave.
MICHAEL'S VOICE (O.S.) Thank you, Tom...
SONNY Did he – ah – tell you to drop the gun right away?
MICHAEL Yeah, a million times.
CLEMENZA You don't forget: two shots apiece in the head soon as you come out the door, ah? Let's go...
MICHAEL How long do you think it'll be before I can come back?
SONNY At least a year, Mike. Listen – um – I'll square it with Mom, uh – you know, you're not seeing her before you leave; and uh, I'll get a message to that girlfriend, when I think the time is right. (after he and Michael embrace) Take care, huh?
TOM Take care, Mike...
MICHAEL (embracing Tom) Tom.
DISSOLVE TO:
Jack Dempsey's Restaurant (8:00pm)
Michael's waiting on the sidewalk until Sollozzo's car pulls up and he gets in.
SOLLOZZO I'm glad you came, Mike. I hope we can straighten everything out. I mean, this is terrible – it's not the way I wanted things to go at all. It should've never happened.
MICHAEL We'll straighten everything out tonight. I don't want my father bothered any more...
SOLLOZZO He won't be, Mike; I swear on my children he won't be. But you gotta keep an op en mind when we talk. I mean, I hope you're not a hothead like your brother Sonny. You – can't talk business with him... something in Italian.
MCCLUSKEY Ahh, he's a good kid. (as he leans forward) I'm sorry about the other night, Mike. I gotta frisk you, so turn around uh – on your knees, facing me. (as McCluskey frisks Michael) Ah, I guess I'm gettin' too old for my job. Too grouchy – can't stand the aggravation. You know how it is... (to Sollozzo) He's clean.
A little while later, as the car begins to cross the Triborough bridge. Michael notices the sign that says "To New Jersey".
MICHAEL We're goin' to Jersey?
SOLLOZZO Maybe...
Sollozzo's car does a high-speed U-turn, cutting off cars who sound there horn, as he crosses over the road's divider into the other direction across the bridge.
SOLLOZZO Nice work, Lou.
Later, the car pulls up to Louis' Italian-American Restaurant. They go in.
DISSOLVE TO:
At a table in Louis' Italian Restaurant
The waiter brings a bottle of wine to the table.
MCCLUSKEY How's the Italian food in this restaurant?
SOLLOZZO Good – try the veal – it's the best in the city.
MCCLUSKEY I'll have it.
SOLLOZZO (to the waiter) Capide? (after the waiter nods, opens the bottle and pours the wine) All right. (to McCluskey) I'm gonna speak Italian to Mike.
MCCLUSKEY Go ahead...
SOLLOZZO Me dispiace? (after Michael nods; in Italian) What happened to your father was business – I have much respect for your f
The Godfather
Based on a Novel by Mario Puzo
Screenplay by Mario Puzo
Francis Ford Coppola
Produced by Albert S. Ruddy
Directed by Francis Ford Coppola
Cast List:
Marlon Brando Don Vito Corleone
Al Pacino Michael Corleone
James Caan Sonny Corleone
Harry Dean Stanton Brett
Richard Castellano Clemenza
Robert Duvall Tom Hagen
Sterling Hayden McCluskey
John Marley Jack Woltz
Richard Conte Barzini
Diane Keaton Kay Adams
John Cazale Fredo Corleone
FADE FROM BLACK
Int. Don Corleone's home office – day
BONASERA
(seated in front of the Don's desk, facing the camera)
I believe in America. America has made my fortune. And I raised my daughter in the American fashion. I gave her freedom, but – I taught her never to dishonor her family. She found a boyfriend; not an Italian. She went to the movies with him; she stayed out late. I didn't protest. Two months ago, he took her for a drive, with another boyfriend. They made her drink whiskey. And then they tried to take advantage of her. She resisted. She kept her honor. So they beat her, like an animal. When I went to the hospital, her nose was a'broken. Her jaw was a'shutted, held together by wire. She couldn't even weep because of the pain. But I wept. Why did I weep? She was the light of my life – beautiful girl. Now she will never be beautiful again.
Bonasera breaks down. The Don gestures to Sonny to give Bonasera a drink.
BONASERA
Sorry...
Bonasera, taking the drink, sips from the shot glass.
BONASERA
I-I went to the police, like a good American. These two boys were brought to trial. The judge sentenced them to three years in prison – suspended sentence. Suspended sentence! They went free that very day! I stood in the courtroom like a fool. And those two bastard, they smiled at me. Then I said to my wife, "for justice, we must go to Don Corleone."
VITO CORLEONE
(sitting behind his desk, petting a cat)
Why did you go to the police? Why didn't you come to me first?
BONASERA
What do you want of me? Tell me anything. But do what I beg you to do.
VITO CORLEONE
What is that?
Bonasera gets up to whisper his request into Don Corleone's ear.
VITO CORLEONE
That I cannot do.
BONASERA
I'll give you anything you ask.
VITO CORLEONE
We've known each other many years, but this is the first time you came to me for counsel, for help. I can't remember the last time that you invited me to your house for a cup of coffee, even though my wife is godmother to your only child. But let's be frank here: you never wanted my friendship. And uh, you were afraid to be in my debt.
BONASERA
I didn't want to get into trouble.
VITO CORLEONE
I understand. You found paradise in America, had a good trade, made a good living. The police protected you; and there were courts of law. And you didn't need a friend of me. But uh, now you come to me and you say – "Don Corleone give me justice." – But you don't ask with respect. You don't offer friendship. You don't even think to call me Godfather. Instead, you come into my house on the day my daughter is to be married, and you uh ask me to do murder, for money.
BONASERA
I ask you for justice.
VITO CORLEONE
That is not justice; your daughter is still alive.
BONASERA
Then they can suffer then, as she suffers.
(then)
How much shall I pay you?
VITO CORLEONE
(stands, turning his back toward Bonasera)
Bonasera... Bonasera... What have I ever done to make you treat me so disrespectfully? Had you come to me in friendship, then this scum that ruined your daughter would be suffering this very day. And that by chance if an honest man such as yourself should make enemies, then they would become my enemies. And then they would fear you.
BONASERA
Be my friend –
(after bowing and the Don shrugs)
– Godfather?
VITO CORLEONE
(after Bonasera kisses his hand)
Good.
(then)
Some day, and that day may never come, I'll call upon you to do a service for m e. But uh, until that day – accept this justice as a gift on my daughter's wedding day.
BONASERA
(as he leaves the room)
Grazie, Godfather.
VITO CORLEONE
Prego.
(to Tom Hagen, after Bonasera leaves the room)
Ah, give this to ah, Clemenza. I want reliable people; people that aren't gonna be carried away. I'm mean, we're not murderers, despite of what this undertaker says.
CUT TO:
Connie's Wedding reception – Day
We hear the music "Connie's Wedding (The Godfather Tarantella)".
CUT TO:
Connie and Carlo at the head table
CUT TO:
The family gathers for a family portrait
VITO CORLEONE
Where's Michael?
SONNY CORLEONE
Don't worry; it's early.
VITO CORLEONE
We're not taking the picture without Michael
(he tells the photographer, in Italian)
TOM HAGEN
What's the matter, Sonny?
SONNY CORLEONE
It's Michael
The Don meets some guests outside.
Mama dances with Sonny's twin girls.
Connie and Carlo laughs with guest at head table.
Clemenza dances with his wife.
FBI arrives and take license plate numbers.
Tessio sits at a table, tosses himself an orange.
FBI continues to take license plate numbers.
Don Barzini arrives.
VITO CORLEONE
Eh, Don Barzini.
Vito introduces Barzini to someone, in Italian.
Clemenza is dancing, gets tired, and spins off the dancefloor, laughing.
CLEMENZA
(after dancing)
Hey, Paulie! Let me have some wine. Paulie! More wine...
PAULIE (O.S.)
(to someone)
Scusi, please.
(in view, to Clemenza, handing him a pitcher quarter-full of wine)
Hey, you look terrif'' on the dance floor
CLEMENZA
Hey, what are you a dance judge or something? Go take a walk around the neighborhood – do your job.
Sonny pinches Lucy Mancini's cheek as he walks towards his wife, Sandra.
SONNY
Hey Sandra, do me a favor, watch the kids – don't let'em run wild, all right?
SANDRA
Well, you watch yourself, all right?
Reception continues with Part 2 of Connie's Wedding Song (The Godfather Mazurka). We first see Tessio dancing with a young girl standing on his feet.
OFF SCREEN
Eh Tessio...
(something in Italian)
... buona fai.
Don Corleone dances with his wife, Carmella (Mama).
Connie collects gifts for her bridal purse. Paulie is watching.
PAULIE
Twenty... Thirty-grand. In small bills, cash. In that little silk purse. Maron, i f this was someone else's wedding, sweet tonato!
BUTTONMAN
(from afar, tossing him sandwiches)
Hey, Paulie! I got two gavagool? Gabagone?... and a...
PAULIE
Eh, you stupid jerk!
A news photographer takes Barzini's picture. Barzini motions to his men to get the camera.
PHOTOGRAPHER
Eh, what's the matter?
The men bring the camera to Barzini, who removes and crumples the film.
Tom going up to his wife, Theresa, who's sitting at a table at the reception.
TOM
I have to go back to work.
THERESA
Oh, Tom.
TOM
(after he kisses his wife)
It's part of the wedding: No Sicilian can refuse any request on his daughter's wedding day.
LUCA
(rehearsing his lines as Tom passes him)
Don Corleone, I am honored and grateful that you have invited me to your home...
Sonny goes out into the driveway to see the FBI guys. The Mazurka ends.
SONNY
Eh – what – Get outta here; it's a private party, go on!
(then to FBI guy in car)
What's is it? Hey, it's my sister's wedding.
(he spits after being shown a badge, turns and walks away)
Goddamn FBI don't respect nothing jazz music begins to play from party.
(to photographer)
Eh, come here; come here; come here; come here, come here; come here; come here...
(smashes camera, which Paulie kicks, and flips cash to him)
CUT TO:
Nazorine and Enzo in Don Corleone's office – day
NAZORINE
(seated in front of the Don's desk)
But towards the end, he was uh paroled to help with the American uh war effort. So for the last six months he's been working in my pastry shop.
VITO CORLEONE
(seated)
Nazorine, my friend, what can I do for you?
NAZORINE
Well now that the war is over, this boy, Enzo – they want to repatriate him back to Italy. Godfather, I have a daughter. You see, she and Enzo...
VITO CORLEONE
You want Enzo to stay in this country, and you want your daughter to be married .
NAZORINE
(stands)
You understand everything.
They shake hands, Nazorine turns to leave.
VITO CORLEONE
Bene.
NAZORINE
(with Mr. Hagen now, by the door)
Mr. Hagen, thank you.
(turning to Don Corleone)
An' wait til you see the beautiful wedding cake I made for your daughter! Ooof!
(gestures)
Like this! The bride and the groom and the angel...
TOM
(after Nazorine exits)
Who should I give this job to?
VITO CORLEONE
Not to our paisan. Give it to a jew congressman, in another district. Who else is on the list?
CUT TO:
OUTSIDE
Michael and Kay arrive, make some introductions. They dance to "Ev'rytime I Look In Your Eyes" as the Don watches from his window.
CUT TO:
The Don's office – day
TOM
He's not on the list, but Luca Brasi wants to see you.
VITO CORLEONE
(looking out the window)
Is this – is this necessary?
TOM
He didn't expect to be invited to the wedding, so he wanted to thank you.
VITO CORLEONE
All right.
CUT TO:
Outside of the Corleone residence
Luca sits, rehearsing his lines.
LUCA BRASI
(rehearsing his lines aloud)
Don Corleone, I am honored and grateful that you have invited me to your home on the wedding day of your daughter. And may there first child be a masculine child.
(starting over, which continues throughout the following dialogue)
Don – Don Corleone...
KAY
Michael, that man over there is talking to himself. See that scary looking guy over there?
LUCA'S VOICE
... On the wedding day of your daughter...
MICHAEL
(after glancing over at Luca)
He's a very scary guy.
KAY
Well, who is he? What's his name?
MICHAEL
His name is Luca Brasi – an' he helps my father out sometimes.
Luca stands up, facing Mike and Kay, seemingly coming toward them.
KAY
Oh, Michael, wait a minute; he's coming over here...
TOM
Mike!
MICHAEL
Oh!
TOM
(embracing Michael)
Heh...! You look terrific!
MICHAEL
My brother, Tom Hagen – this is Kay Adams.
TOM
How do you do.
KAY
How do you do, Tom
TOM
(into Michael's ear)
Your father's been asking for you.
(to Kay, before he leaves)
Very nice to meet you.
KAY
Nice to meet you.
(after Tom exits)
If he's your brother, why does he have a different name?
MICHAEL
Oh, ah, that – when my brother Sonny was a kid, he found Tom Hagen in the street. And he had no home – and so my father took him in – and he's been with us ever since . He's a good lawyer. Not a Sicilian, but – I think he's gonna be consiglieri.
KAY
What's that?
MICHAEL
That's um, like a counselor – an advisor – very important to the family.
(then)
You like your lasagna?
CUT TO:
Luca Brasi in Don Corleone's office – day
LUCA BRASI
Don Corleone, I am honored and grateful that you have invited me to your daughter's wedding...
(after realizing he messed up his rehearsed lines, he fails to re cover)
... on the day of your daughter's wedding. And I hope that their first child be a masculine child. I pledge my ever-ending loyalty.
Playing kids run into the room and then are escorted out by Tom.
LUCA BRASI
(as Luca hands Don Corleone a cash-filled envelope)
For your daughter's bridal purse.
VITO CORLEONE
Thank you, Luca, my most valued friend.
LUCA BRASI
Don Corleone, I'm gonna leave you know, because I know you are busy.
VITO CORLEONE
Thank you.
Tom escorts Luca out.
Bride & groom dance to "The Godfather Fox Trot".
Sonny moves closer to Lucy to whisper into her ear.
Sandra gestures to other women about the size of Sonny's manhood; they laugh.
Sandra turns to see Lucy get up to meet Sonny.
Singing and dancing on stage.
VOICE
(urging Mama Corleone to come onto the stage to sing)
Signora Corleone!
MAMA
(laughingly)
No – no – no!
(once on stage)
Assesta stori!
(sings the first verse to "Luna Mezz'a Mare")
Sonny goes upstairs.
An old man continues "Luna Mezz'a Mare" while Nazorine dances a nd laughs on stage.
Lucy Mancini goes upstairs.
The old man who was singing is now dancing.
CUT TO:
Don's office
TOM
Senator Cauly apologized for not coming personally – he said you'd understand. Also, some of the judges. They've all sent gifts.
(toasting to the Don)
Salute!
Off screen: screaming of joy from the party outside.
VITO CORLEONE
What is that outside?
CUT TO:
Outside
Johnny Fontane enters the party.
CONNIE
(while running up to Johnny, then hugging him)
Johnny! Johnny! Johnny! I love you!
CUT TO:
Don's office
The Don is looking out the window.
VITO
He came all the way from California to come to the wedding; I told you he was going to come.
TOM
It's been two years; he probably got into trouble again.
VITO
He's a good godson.
CUT TO:
Bandstand area – day
MAMA CORLEONE
Johnny, Johnny!
(in Italian)
"Sing a song".
(in English)
Sing a song.
The crowd encourages Johnny, and he gives in.
CUT TO:
Michael and Kay's table – day
KAY
Mike, you never told me you knew Johnny Fontane!
MICHAEL
Sure... You wanna meet him?
KAY
Huh? Oh, well, sure!
MICHAEL
My father helped him with his career.
JOHNNY (O.S.)
For my Connie...
KAY
He did? How?
JOHNNY (O.S.)
(singing "I Have But One Heart")
"I have but one heart..."
MICHAEL
Let's listen to the song...
PAN to the crowd cheering and screaming as Johnny sings.
JOHNNY
(singing, continues)
"... this love I bring you
I have but one heart
To share with you
I have but one dream
That I can cling to
You are the one dream..."
KAY
Oh, Michael...
JOHNNY
(singing, finishing the verse)
"...I dream comes true..."
KAY
Please, Michael, tell me.
JOHNNY (O.S.)
(continues the song)
"My darling, until I saw you..."
MICHAEL
Well, when Johnny was first starting out, he was signed to this personal service contract; with a big band leader. And as his career got better and better, he wanted to g et out of it. Now, Johnny is my father's godson. And my father went to see this band leader, and he offered him $10,000 to let Johnny go. But the band leader said no. So the next day, my father went to see him; only this time with Luca Brasi. And within an hour, he signed a release, for a certified check for $1,000.
KAY
How'd he do that?
MICHAEL
My father made him an offer he couldn't refuse.
KAY
What was that?
MICHAEL
Luca Brasi held a gun to his head, and my father assured him that either his brains – or his signature – would be on the contract.
(then)
That's a true story.
(then)
That's my family, Kay. It's not me.
CUT TO:
Bandstand area – day
MAMA (O.S.)
Bene! Bene!
The song is finished, and we hear applause. The Don goes out to meet Johnny, and they, and other guests, toast. The Mazurka music and dancing continue.
VOICE (O.S.)
Salute!
Johnny whispers into the Don's ear that he wants to talk to him.
VITO CORLEONE
I'll take care of it.
(to Tom)
Tom, I want you to find Santino. Tell him to come to the office.
Tom looks up, as if knowing what Sonny's up to.
CUT TO:
Michael and Kay's table at the reception
MICHAEL
(with Kay, gets tapped in the head by Fredo)
Oh!
(noticing Fredo)
How are you, Fredo?
(then)
Fredo – my brother Fredo – this is Kay Adams
KAY
Oh, hi
FREDO
How'ya doing?
(after Fredo kisses Kay on the cheek)
This is my brother, Mike.
MICHAEL
Are you having a good time?
FREDO
Huh? yeah...
(then)
This your friend, huh?
CUT TO:
Johnny Fontane in the Don's office – DAY
JOHNNY
I don't know what to do. My voice is – is weak. It's weak. Anyway, uh, if I ha d this part in the picture, ya'know, it puts me right back up on top again. But this, uh – this man out there, he won't give it to me; the head of the studio.
VITO CORLEONE
What's his name?
JOHNNY
Woltz – Woltz. He won't give it to me – and ah, he says there's no chance. No chance.
CUT TO:
Tom looking for Sonny inside the house
TOM
(at the bottom of the stairs)
Sonny? Sonny?
Sonny and Lucy are going at it, standing against a door in an upstairs bedroom. Tom goes upstairs, then knocks on the bedroom door.
TOM
Sonny? Sonny you in there?
SONNY
(stopping the action)
What?
TOM
Your old man wants to see you.
SONNY
Yeah, one minute.
Tom smiles, and walks away, as Sonny and Lucy continue.
CUT TO:
OUTSIDE
A woman singing Italian song, opera-like, on the stage.
CUT TO:
The Don's office
JOHNNY
(as Tom quietly enters the Don's office)
A month ago he bought the movie rights to this book. A bestseller – and the main character, it's a guy just like me. I uh – I wouldn't even have to act – just be myself. Oh, godfather, I don't know what to do. I don't know what to do.
VITO CORLEONE
You can act like a man!
(after the Don slaps him on the face)
What's the matter with you? Is this how you turned out? A Hollywood...?.... that ah cries like a woman?
(imitating Johnny)
What can I do?! What can I do?!
(then)
What is that nonsense? Ridiculous.
Sonny enters the room.
VITO CORLEONE
(to Johnny, after glancing to see Sonny enter)
You spend time with your family?
JOHNNY
Sure I do.
VITO CORLEONE
(to Johnny, but toward and about Sonny)
Good. 'Cause a man who doesn't spend time with his family can never be a real m an.
(to Johnny)
Come're.
(then)
You look terrible. I want you to eat. I want you to rest a while. And in a month from now, this – Hollywood bigshot's gonna give you what you want.
JOHNNY
It's too late, they start shooting in a week.
VITO CORLEONE
I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse.
(then)
Now you just go outside and enjoy yourself, and ah, forget about all this nonsense. I want you to leave it all to me.
JOHNNY
(exiting)
All right
VITO CORLEONE
(after Johnny exits)
Well...
CUT TO:
OUTSIDE
The cake comes out. Nazorine, the baker, takes a proud bow. The Tarantella plays again.
CUT TO:
The Don's office
VITO CORLEONE
What time does my daughter leave with the bridegroom?
TOM
In a few minutes, right after they cut the cake.
(as we hear clinking glasses coming from outside, which continues )
Now you're new son-in-law; give him something important?
VITO CORLEONE
Never. Give him a living, but never discuss the family business with him. What else?
TOM
Virgil Sollozzo called. Now we're gonna have to give him a day sometime next week.
VITO CORLEONE
We'll discuss it when you come back from California.
TOM
(laughing)
When am I going to California?
VITO CORLEONE
Want you to go tonight; I want you to talk to this – movie bigshot, and settle this business for Johnny. Now, if there's nothing else, I'd like to go to my daughter's wedding.
CUT TO:
OUTSIDE
Family portrait scene in the yard the clinking glasses have stopped.
MAMA
(seeing Carlo and Connie kissing)
Carlo, we're gonna take the picture...
MICHAEL
(as he goes to get Kay for the photo)
Wait a minute...
KAY
No, Michael, not me.
PHOTOGRAPHER
Okay, that's it. Just like that; now, hold it.
Connie and the Don dance to "The Godfather Waltz (Come Live Your Life With Me)"
CUT TO:
Tom arriving in Hollywood – DAY
By plane, takes a cab, then walks by foot through Woltz International Studios. Music: "Manhattan Serenade" plays.
WOLTZ
(who's just walked toward Tom)
All right, start talking.
TOM
Uh, I was sent by a friend of Johnny Fontane's – His friend is my client, who' d give his undying friendship to Mr. Woltz, if Mr. Woltz would grant us a small favor.
WOLTZ
Woltz is listening.
TOM
Give Johnny the part in that new war film you're starting next week.
WOLTZ
(laughs)
And ah, what favor would ah your friend ah grant Mr. Woltz?
TOM
You're gonna have some union problems; my client could make then disappear. Also, one of your top stars has just moved from ah marijuana to heroin...
WOLTZ
Are you trying to muscle me?
TOM
Absolutely not.
WOLTZ
Now listen to me, you smooth-talking son-of-a-bitch! Let me lay it on the line for you and your boss, whoever he is. Johnny Fontane will never get that movie! I don't car e how many – daigo guinea WOP greaseball gumbahs come out of the woodwork!
TOM
I'm German-Irish...
WOLTZ
Well let me tell you something my Kraut Mick friend, I'm gonna make so much trouble for you, you won't know what hit you!
TOM
Mr. Woltz, I'm a lawyer, I have not threatened you.
WOLTZ
I know almost every big lawyer in New York, who the hell are you?
TOM
I have a special practice; I handle one client – Now you have my number; I'll wait for your call – by the way, I admire your pictures very much.
Tom shakes Woltz' hand, then leaves.
WOLTZ
(to a staff member)
Check him out...
CUT TO:
LATER – EARLY EVENING
Tom and Woltz walking around Woltz' estate. "Manhattan Serenade" plays again.
TOM
This is really beautiful.
WOLTZ
Well, look at this. It used to decorate the palace of a king.
TOM
Oh, yeah; very nice.
WOLTZ
Why didn't you say you worked for Corleone, Tom? I thought you were just some c heap two-bit hustler Johnny was running in trying to bluff me.
TOM
I don't like to use his name unless it's really necessary.
WOLTZ
How's your drink, Tom?
TOM
Fine
WOLTZ
Hey, come on over here with me; I wanna show you something really beautiful. You do appreciate beauty, don't you?
(then)
There you are, $600,000 on four hooves. I bet a Russian Czar never paid that kind of dough for a single horse.
(toward the horse)
Khartoum. Khartoum.
(to Tom)
I'm not gonna race him, though. I'm gonna put him out to stud.
TOM
He's beautiful.
WOLTZ
(to stablehand)
Thanks, Tony.
TONY
You're welcome...
WOLTZ
(to Tom)
Let's get something to eat, huh?
CUT TO:
INT. WOLTZ'HOUSE – EARLY EVENING
Woltz' dinner table.
TOM
Mr. Corleone is Johnny's godfather. To the Italian people, that's a very religious, sacred, close relationship.
WOLTZ
I respect that; just tell him he should ask me anything else. But this is one favor I can't give him.
TOM
He doesn't ask a second favor once he's been refused the first, understood?
WOLTZ
You don't understand. Johnny Fontane never gets that movie. That part is perfect for him; it'll make him a big star. And I'm gonna run him out of the business, and let m e tell you why.
(after he stands)
Johnny Fontane ruined one of Woltz International's most valuable proteges. For five years we had her under training. Singing lessons; acting lessons, dancing lessons. I spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on her. I was gonna make her a big star! And let me be even more frank, just to show you that I'm not a hard-hearted man, and it's not all dollars and cents. She was beautiful; she was young, she was innocent. She was the greatest piece of ass I ever had, and I had'em all over the world! And then Johnny Fontane comes along with his olive-oil voice, and guinea charm. And she runs off. She threw it all away just to make me look ridiculous! And a man in my position can't afford to be made to look ridiculous ! Now you get the hell outta here! And if that gumbah tries any rough stuff, you tell him I ain't no band leader! Yeah, I heard that story...
TOM
Thank you for the dinner and a very pleasant evening. If your car could take me to the airport; Mr. Corleone is a man who insists on hearing bad news immediately.
Tom nods, then exits.
CUT TO:
pan of exterior of Woltz' estate – DAWN
Music is a variation of the Title Theme, then we see the interior of Woltz' bedroom. Woltz awakens in a pool of blood, and finds Khartoum's severed head in his bed; and SCREAMS ah - ah - ah - ah - ah!
CUT TO:
closeup of Vito Corleone's face
He nods.
VITO CORLEONE
You're not too tired, are you, Tom?
TOM
No, no. I slept on the plane.
(as we see Sollozzo entering the Don's office from the street)
I have the Sollozzo notes here. Now – Sollozzo is known as 'The Turk.' He's supposed to be very good with a knife, but only in matters of business or some sort of reasonable complaint. Uh, his business is narcotics. He has fields in Turkey where they grow the poppy. And in Sicily he has the plants to process them into heroin. Now – he needs cash, and he needs protection from the police, for which he gives a piece of the action – I couldn't find out how much. The Tattaglia family is behind him here in New York. Now they have to be in it for something.
CUT TO:
Sonny introducing himself to Sollozzo – DAY
Shaking hands.
SONNY
Sonny Corleone...
CUT TO:
Back to Don, Sonny and Tom before the meeting – evening
VITO CORLEONE
What about his prison record?
TOM
Two terms. One in Italy, one here. He's known as a top narcotics man.
VITO CORLEONE
Santino? Whattaya think?
SONNY
There's a lot of money in that white powder.
VITO CORLEONE
Tom?
TOM
(Sollozzo scenes still intercut)
Well, I say yes. There's more money potential in narcotics than anything else we're looking at. Now if we don't get into it, somebody else will. Maybe one of the Five Families, maybe all of them. Now with the money they earn, they can buy more police and political power; then they come after us. Now we have the unions, we have the gambling; an' they 're the best things to have. But narcotics is a thing of the future. An' if we don't get a piece of that action, we risk everything we have – I mean not now, but ah ten years from now .
SONNY
So, what's your answer gonna be, Pop?
CUT TO:
Sollozzo meeting in Don Corleone's Genco office – DAY
Scene includes the Don, Sollozzo, Tom, Sonny, Fredo, Clemenza, and Tessio sitting in Room #2.
SOLLOZZO
Bene. Don Corleone. I need a man who has powerful friends. I need a million dol lars in cash. I need, Don Corleone, those politicians that you carry in your pocket, like so many nickels and dimes.
VITO CORLEONE
What is the interests for my family?
SOLLOZZO
Thirty percent. In the first year, your end should be three-four-million dollars. And then it would go up.
VITO CORLEONE
And what is the interest for the Tattaglia Family?
SOLLOZZO
(to Tom)
My compliments.
(to Don Corleone)
I'll take care of the Tattaglia's, outta my share.
VITO CORLEONE
So I receive thirty percent for finance – political influence, and legal protection, that's what your telling me?
SOLLOZZO
That's right
VITO CORLEONE
Why do you come to me? Why do I deserve this generosity?
SOLLOZZO
If you consider a million dollars in cash just finance, te salute, Don Corleone.
VITO CORLEONE
(gets up to pour Sollozzo another drink)
I said that I would see you because, I heard that you're a serious man, to be treated with respect.
(after sitting)
But uh, I must say no to you – and I'll give you my reasons. It's true, I have a lot of friends in politics, but they wouldn't be friendly very long if they knew my business w as drugs instead of gambling, which they rule that as a – harmless vice. But drugs is a dirty business.
SOLLOZZO
Don Corleone...
VITO CORLEONE
It – makes – it doesn't make any difference to me what a man does for a living, understand. But your business is ah – a little dangerous.
SOLLOZZO
If you're worried about security for your million, the Tattaglia's will guarantee it.
SONNY
Aw, you're telling me that the Tattaglia's guarantee our investment?
VITO CORLEONE
(to Sonny)
Wait a minute...
Clemenza and Tom look at each other, realizing Sonny's faux pas. Sollozzo notices this.
VITO CORLEONE
(to Sollozzo)
I have a sentimental weakness for my children, and I spoil them as you can see; they talk when they should listen. But, anyway, Signor Sollozzo, my no is final, and I wish to congratulate you on your new business, and I hope you do very well. and good luck to you – as best as your interests don't conflict with my interests. Thank you.
The group begins to leave the room: Sollozzo, Clemenza, Tessio, Fredo.
VITO CORLEONE
Santino, come're. Whattsa matter with you? I think your brain is going soft fro m all that comedy your playing with that young girl. Never tell anybody outside the family what you're thinking again!
(then)
Go on...
(after Sonny exits)
Tom...
(after a huge flower arrangement appears at the office entrance)
What – what is this nonsense?
TOM
It's from ah Johnny, staring in that new, ah, film.
VITO CORLEONE
Ah – Well, take it away.
TOM
(to person holding flowers)
Take it over there.
VITO CORLEONE
And uh, tell Luca Brasi to come in.
CUT TO:
Luca sits down in front of the Don – DAY
We hear scary Luca-like music.
VITO CORLEONE
I'm a little worried about this Sollozzo fella. I want you to find out what he' s got under his fingernails, ya'know. Go to the ah Tattaglia's, and ah, make them think that ah you're – you're not too happy with our family and – and ah find out what you can.
FADE IN:
EXT. BEST & CO – DAY
Michael and Kay Christmas shopping. "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" is playing.
KAY
I got something – I got something for your mother, and for Sonny, and a tie for Freddy, and Tom Hagen got the Reynolds pen...
MICHAEL
And what do you want for Christmas?
KAY
Me? Oh, just you.
CUT TO:
Luca Brasi getting ready for his meeting – NIGHT
Putting on his vest and checking his gun.
INT. HOTEL ROOM – DAY
Mike and Kay are in a hotel room bed. The phone rings, and Kay picks up.
VOICE ON THE PHONE
Good afternoon, it's 3 o'clock
KAY
(into phone)
Thank you....
(to Michael, after hanging up the phone)
Michael, it's 3 o'clock
MICHAEL
(barely awake)
Wha?
KAY
(laughs)
It's 3 o'clock – we hafta get up – because we have to go to your father's house...
MICHAEL
Why do we have to?
KAY
(laughing)
Because we have to, ya know.
MICHAEL
If we go to my father's house –
KAY
Uh-huh...
MICHAEL
– we can't push the beds together...
KAY
(laughs)
Why not?
MICHAEL
Because they're in separate rooms.
KAY
(laughs)
Well, alright then – I – then – we won't go – we won't tell your father...
MICHAEL
Okay...
KAY
You know, we'll just get married first – and we'll tell'em later...
MICHAEL
I can't do that...
KAY
Then Michael, get outta bed.
MICHAEL
We'll go tomorrow...
KAY
Michael, they're expecting us!
MICHAEL
Oh, Kay – get the phone...
KAY
What are you gonna do?
MICHAEL
Just get the phone...
Kay gives Michael the phone, and he picks up the receiver and the operator responds.
OPERATOR
(over the phone)
Yes, may I help you?
MICHAEL
(into phone)
Hi, may I please have Orchard-9-9539 please...
KAY
What are you doing? – What are you doing?
MICHAEL
(to Kay)
You're going to be the long-distance operator from New Hampshire.
(after Kay laughs)
Come on...
KAY
(laughing)
I can't do this.
MICHAEL
You gotta – come on...
TOM'S VOICE
(over phone)
Hello?
KAY
(pretending to be an operator, into phone)
Hello, this is long distance calling – I have a collect call from Mr. Michael Corleone – um, will you accept the charges?
TOM'S VOICE
(over phone)
Yes...
KAY
(pretending to be an operator, into phone)
One moment, please...
Kay hands Michael the receiver. He inaudibly asks Kay who it is, but she doesn't know.
MICHAEL
(into phone)
Hello?
TOM'S VOICE
Hello?
MICHAEL
(into phone)
Hello, Tom, how are you?
TOM'S VOICE
Hi, Mike, how are you?
MICHAEL
(into phone)
Listen – we're up in New Hampshire still – we're gonna drive down tomorrow mo rning...
The beds on which Michael and Kay are laying, pushed together, begin to separate.
TOM
Is there anything I can do for you?
MICHAEL'S VOICE
No, ah – we're fine. Now, I'm – I'm gonna see you Christmas – everybody's go in' out to the mall?
TOM'S VOICE
Right...
MICHAEL
Okay...
TOM'S VOICE
Right, Mikey...
MICHAEL
(as the beds separate, and Michael and Kay fall between them)
Bye, Tom...
CUT TO:
Don Corleone's office on Mott Street – early evening
VITO CORLEONE
Andiamo, Fredo. Tell Paulie to get the car; we're going.
FREDO
Okay, Pop – I'll have to get it myself, Pop; Paulie called in sick this morning.
VITO CORLEONE
Huh?!
FREDO
(exiting)
Paulie's a good kid, I don't mind getting the car.
The office manager helps the Don with his coat.
VITO CORLEONE
(to office manager)
Buon nateli, Dano. Grazie
CUT TO:
Luca Brasi walking down hallway to the bar – night
CUT TO:
Luca Brasi's meeting at Tattaglia's bar – night
BRUNO TATTAGLIA
Luca, I'm Bruno Tattaglia.
LUCA
I know
BRUNO TATTAGLIA
Su bequero Scotch? Pre-war...
LUCA
Io no bib' "I don't drink".
SOLLOZZO
You know who I am?
LUCA
(in Italian)
I know you.
SOLLOZZO
(in Italian)
You have been talking to the Tattaglia family... right? I think you and I can do business. I need someone strong like you. I heard you are not happy – with the Corleone family. Want to join me?.
LUCA
(in Italian)
What's in it for me?.
SOLLOZZO
(in Italian)
$50,000 – to start with..
LUCA
(in Italian)
Not bad.
SOLLOZZO
(offering his hand to Luca; in Italian)
Agreed?
Luca doesn't shake. He takes out a cigarette, which Bruno lights.
LUCA
Grazie.
Bruno grabs Luca's hand to the bar, Sollozzo rams a knife into it, and Luca is garroted by an unidentified buttonman.
CUT TO:
EXT. CITY STREET – EARLY MORNING
Sollozzo kidnaps Tom Hagen on the city street while Tom's Christmas shopping.
Tom is carrying a sled and some tied-up boxes. "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town" is playing.
SOLLOZZO
Tom! Tom Hagen! Merry Christmas!
(after Tom nods)
Heh, I'm glad I run into you; I want to talk to you.
TOM
Well I haven't got time
SOLLOZZO
Aw, make time, consiglieri. Get in the car.
(then)
What are you worried about? If I wanted to kill you, you'd be dead already.
(then)
Get in.
DISSOLVE TO:
The Don and Fredo leaving the Genco office – late afternoon
VITO CORLEONE
Aspetta, Fredo; I'm gonna buy some fruit aspetta – wait.
FREDO
(getting into the driver's seat of the car)
Okay, Pop
VITO CORLEONE
(to merchant)
Hi, merry Christmas; I wan some fruit over there. What is this? Gimme three. And that one...
After the don gets some oranges and a green pepper, he hears footsteps , then running. He begins to run toward the car, he stumbles and falls onto the car. The shooters shoot about 10 shots at him. The Don screams Uh!, falls over, the assassins run, and the Don falls to the curb.
FREDO
(gets out of the car, fumbling with the gun, then sits on the curb crying)
I can't – I can't – Papa!!
CUT TO:
EXT. RADIO CITY MUSIC HALL – EVENING
Michael and Kay walking outside of Radio City Music Hall, which is showing Leo McCarey's "The Bells of St. Mary's" which Michael and Kay just saw. Music playing is "Bells of St. Mary's".
KAY
Mike, would you like me better if I were a nun? Like in the story, you know?
MICHAEL
(after pausing)
No.
KAY
Then would you like me better if I were Ingrid Bergman?
MICHAEL
Now that's a thought...
KAY
(shaken)
Michael...
MICHAEL
No, I would not like you better if you were Ingrid Bergman.
KAY
(upset)
Michael...
MICHAEL
What's the matter?
KAY
Michael...
They walk back to a newsstand they just passed, and Michael picks up The Daily Mirror which has the headline: "VITO CORLEONE FEARED MURDERED". He flips the pages to reveal an inside article: "Assassins Gun Down Underworld Chief".
MICHAEL
They don't say if he's dead or alive...
They run across the street to a phone booth to call Sonny, as "Mystery Music" plays, an excerpt from the Title Theme.
MICHAEL
(into the phone)
Sonny – Michael.
SONNY'S VOICE
(over the phone)
Michael, where you been?
MICHAEL
(into the phone)
Is he all right?
SONNY'S VOICE
(over the phone)
We don't know yet. There's all kinds of stories.
(after a sigh)
He was hit bad, Mikey...
(then)
Are you there?
MICHAEL
(into the phone)
Yeah, I'm here.
SONNY'S VOICE
(over the phone)
Where you been? I was worried.
MICHAEL
(into the phone)
Didn't Tom tell you? I called.
SONNY'S VOICE
(over the phone)
No – look, come home, kid. You should be with Mama, ya'hear?
MICHAEL
(into the phone)
Alright...
CUT TO:
INT. SONNY'S HOUSE – NIGHT
Just after talking to Michael on the phone. Sonny hangs up.
SANDRA
(sadly hugging Sonny)
Oh my God...
There's a loud crash heard off screen from outside the house.
SANDRA
(as the baby starts to cry)
Oh! Sonny!
Sonny searches for and finds his gun from a drawer.
SONNY
(to Sandra, at the door, after hearing knocking)
Get back – go.
(to the door)
Who is it?
CLEMENZA'S VOICE
(through the door)
Open up – It's Clemenza.
SONNY
(after letting him in)
What?
CLEMENZA
(entering)
There's more news about your old man. The word is out on the street that he's already dead.
SONNY
Watch your mouth – what's the matter with you?
CLEMENZA
(after being pushed up against the wall)
Jesus Christ; take it easy – take it easy
SONNY
Where was Paulie?
CLEMENZA
Paulie was out sick. He been calling sick all winter.
SONNY
How many times has he been sick?
CLEMENZA
Only maybe three or four times. I mean –
SONNY
3, 4 times?
CLEMENZA
– I asked Freddy if he wants me to get a different bodyguard and he said no.
SONNY
Listen, do me a favor, pick him up right now, I don't care how sick he is. If he's breathing, I want you to bring him to my father's house. Now, you understand? Now.
CLEMENZA
Yeah. You want me to send any people over here?
SONNY
No. No. No – Just you and him. Ga'head.
Clemenza leaves.
SONNY
(to Sandra, who's holding the crying baby)
Look, uh... I'll be having some people come over to the house. A couple of our people...
Sonny's phone rings, and he picks up.
SONNY
(into the phone)
Hello?
SOLLOZZO'S VOICE
(over the phone)
Santino Corleone?
SONNY
(into the phone, and Sandra leaves the room with the baby)
Yeah...
SOLLOZZO'S VOICE
(over the phone)
We have Tom Hagen. In about three hours he'll be released with our proposition –
Sonny checks his watch, then writes the time onto the kitchen cabinet.
SOLLOZZO'S VOICE
(over the phone, continues)
– Listen to everything he has to say before you do anything. What's done is done.
(then)
And don't lose that famous temper of yours, uh Sonny?
SONNY
(into the phone)
No, I'll wait...
Sollozzo hangs up, then Sonny hangs up.
CUT TO:
INT. An abandoned diner – NIGHT
Sollozzo with kidnapped Tom Hagen.
SOLLOZZO
(drinking coffee, to Tom)
Your boss is dead. I know you're not in the muscle-end of the family, Tom, so I don't want you to be scared. I want you to help the Corleone's, and I want you to help me.
(handing Tom a drink)
Yeah, we got him outside his office just about an hour after we picked you up.
(then)
Drink it.
(then)
So now it's up to you to make the peace between me and Sonny.
(then)
Sonny was hot for my deal, wasn't he? And you knew it was the right thing to do.
TOM
Sonny'll come after you with everything he's got.
SOLLOZZO
That'll be his first reaction, sure. That's why you gotta talk some sense into him. The Tattaglia family is behind me with all their people. The other New York Families will go along with anything that will prevent a full-scale war. Let's face it, Tom, and all due respect, the Don, rest in peace, was – slippin'. Ten years ago could I have gotten to him?
(then)
Well – now he's dead. He's dead, Tom, and nothing can bring him back. So you gotta talk to Sonny, you gotta talk to the caporegimes, that Tessio and Fat Clemenza.
(then)
It's good business, Tom.
TOM
I'll try, but even Sonny won't be able to call off Luca Brasi.
SOLLOZZO
Yeah, well, let me worry about Luca.
(then)
You just talk to Sonny – and the other two kids.
TOM
I'll to my best.
SOLLOZZO
Good. Now, you can go.
(while walking out)
I don't like violence, Tom. I'm a business man. Blood is a big expense.
Outside, a car, sounding its horn, pulls up; Sollozzo goes to talk to them, and returns.
SOLLOZZO
He's still alive. They hit 'em with five shots, and he's still alive! Well that' s bad luck for me, and bad luck for you if you don't make that deal!
CUT TO:
Michael arrives at Corleone compound – NIGHT
A car drop him off at the gate, and he goes inside, seeing family and friends.
CLEMENZA
(sitting with his wife, stands to greet Michael)
Mike – Your mother's over in the hospital with your father; looks like he's gonna pull through, thank God.
CUT TO:
The Don's office – NIGHT
With Sonny, Tom, Mike, Tessio, & Clemenza.
SONNY
(b.g., to Tom)
Whattaya think –
TOM
(b.g., to Sonny)
Too much...
SONNY
(b.g., to Tom)
Huh?
CLEMENZA
(b.g., to Tessio)
... it's a lot of bad blood. Sollozzo, Philip Tattaglia, Bruno Tattaglia; Garbone...
TOM
(b.g., to Sonny)
It's too far – I think it's too personal... The Don'll consider this all...
MICHAEL
(to Clemenza)
You kill all those guys?
SONNY
Hey, stay out of it, Mickey; do me a favor.
TOM
Sollozzo's the key. You get rid of him, every falls into line. Now what about Luca? Sollozzo thinks he's...
SONNY
Aw – I don't know – if Luca sold out we're in a lot of trouble, believe me. A lot of trouble.
TOM
Has anyone been able to get in touch with Luca?
CLEMENZA
Eh, I've been trying all night. He might be shacked up.
SONNY
Hey, Mick, do me a favor –
TOM
(b.g., to Clemenza)
Luca never sleeps over with a broad – he always goes home when he's through...
SONNY
(to Michael)
– try ringing him...
(to Tom)
Well, Tom – you're consiglieri, now what do we do if the old man dies, God for bid.
TOM
If we lose the old man – we lose our political contacts and half our strength. The other New York Families might wind up supporting Sollozzo just to avoid a long – destructive war. This is almost 1946, nobody wants bloodshed anymore. If your father dies...
(then)
... you make the deal, Sonny.
SONNY
That's easy for you to say, Tom, he's not your father!
TOM
I'm as much a son to him as you or Mike.
knock on door.
SONNY
What is it?
Paulie enters.
CLEMENZA
Hey, Paulie, I thought I told you to stay put.
PAULIE
Well, the guy at the gates say – say they got a package.
SONNY
Yeah? Hey, Tessio, go see what it is.
PAULIE
(to Sonny, after Tessio exits)
You want me to hang around?
SONNY
Yeah, hang around. You all right?
PAULIE
Yeah, I'm fine
SONNY
Yeah? –
Paulie coughs, perhaps deliberately.
SONNY
– There's some food in the icebox, you hungry or anything?
PAULIE
Nah, it's alright – thanks...
SONNY
How 'bout a drink? Have a little brandy – that'll help sweat it out. Huh? Go ahead, baby...
PAULIE
Alright, sure – that might be a good idea...
SONNY
Yeah, right.
(to Clemenza, after Paulie exits)
I want you to take care of that sonofabitch right away. Paulie sold out the old man, that stronz'. I don't want to see him again. Make that first thing on your list, understand?
CLEMENZA
Understood.
SONNY
Hey, Mickey, tomorrow – get a couple of guys, you go over to Luca's apartment; hang around, waitin' for him to show up...
TOM
Uh maybe we shouldn't get Mike uh mixed up in this too directly .
SONNY
Yeah, listen, uh... hang around the house on the phone an' be a big help, huh?
(then)
Try Luca again – go'head
Tessio enters with package, which he places on Sonny's lap.
SONNY
(unwrapping the package of Luca's bulletproof vest-wrapped fish)
What the hell is this?
CLEMENZA
It's a Sicilian message. It means Luca Brasi sleeps with the fishes.
Michael hangs up the phone.
CUT TO:
Clemenza leaves his house – morning
Some boys are playing, one is pushing the other in a toy car as the latter yells "ah!".
CLEMENZA
(to his wife, on his front stoop)
I'm goin' now...
MRS. CLEMENZA
(standing in the door)
What time will you be home tonight?
CLEMENZA
(walking to the car)
I don't know, probably late.
MRS. CLEMENZA (O.S.)
Don't forget the cannoli!
CLEMENZA
(getting into the car, as is Rocco)
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah...
PAULIE
(in the driver's seat)
Rocco, sit on the other side. You block the rearview mirror.
CLEMENZA
That Sonny's runnin' wild. He's thinkin'a going to the mattresses already. We g otta find a spot over on the West Side. Ya try – 309 West 43rd Street. You know any gooda spots on the West Side?
PAULIE
Yeah, I think about it.
CLEMENZA
Well think about it while you're drivin', will ya? I wanna hit New York sometime this month.
(then)
And watch out for the kids while you're backin' out.
CUT TO:
Driving under the El Tracks – day
CLEMENZA'S VOICE
Hey, Paulie, I want you to go down 39th Street – Carlo Santos – you pick up 18 –
PAULIE'S VOICE
Yeah...
CLEMENZA'S VOICE
(continuing)
– mattresses for the guys to sleep, while you bring me the bill...
PAULIE'S VOICE
Uh-huh, yeah, alright... That...?... bill
CLEMENZA'S VOICE
Ya'know, you make sure they're clean, cuz those guys'll be stuck up in there for a long time, ya'know?
PAULIE'S VOICE
They're clean. They told me they exterminate them .
CLEMENZA'S VOICE
(as Rocco laughs)
Exterminate? That's a bad word to use: exterminate! Get this guy. Watch out we don't exterminate you laughs.
PAULIE'S VOICE
You think that's funny, or what?
CLEMENZA'S VOICE
(laughs with Rocco)
Hey, Paulie –
(in Italian)
Did you fart?.
PAULIE'S VOICE
Hey, Rocco, what did you do?
ROCCO'S VOICE
(laughs)
Not me – nothin' – it wasn't me
PAULIE'S VOICE
(laughs)
It's gotta be him, then...
CLEMENZA'S VOICE
Pull over, will yah? I gotta take a leak.
Paulie pulls over, and Clemenza gets out to relieve himself. Rocco shoots Paulie three times as we hear a variation of the "Title Theme" music.
CLEMENZA
Leave the gun. Take the cannoli.
CUT TO:
Outside the Don's kitchen – DAY
Michael is sitting on a bench.
CLEMENZA'S VOICE (O.S.)
Hey, Mike! Hey, Mikey?
MICHAEL
Yeah?
CLEMENZA'S VOICE (O.S.)
You're wanted on the telephone.
MICHAEL
(entering the kitchen)
Who is it?
CLEMENZA
Some girl... the music ends.
MICHAEL
(into phone)
Hello, Kay?
KAY'S VOICE
(over the phone)
How's your father?
MICHAEL
(into the phone)
He's good. He's gonna make it.
KAY'S VOICE
(over the phone)
I love you.
MICHAEL
(into the phone)
Huh?
KAY'S VOICE
(over the phone, louder)
I love you.
(then)
Michael?
MICHAEL
(into the phone)
Yeah, I know.
KAY'S VOICE
(over the phone)
Tell me you love me...
MICHAEL
(into the phone)
I can't talk...
KAY'S VOICE
(over the phone)
Can't you say it?
MICHAEL
(into the phone)
Eh – I'll see you tonight.
KAY'S VOICE
Okay
Michael hangs up the phone.
CLEMENZA
Hey, Mikey, why don't you tell that nice girl you love her?
(in an exaggerated Italian accent)
I love you with all-a my heart! If I don't see you again soon, I'm a-gonna die!
(laughs)
Heh, come over here, kid, learn something. You never know, you might have to cook for twenty guys someday. You see, you start out with a little bit of oil. Then you fry some garlic. Then you throw in some tomatoes, tomato paste, your fry it; ya make sure it doesn't stick. You get it to a boil; you shove in all your sausage and your meatballs; heh?... And a little bit o'wine. An a little bit o'sugar, and that's my trick.
SONNY
(after entering the kitchen)
Why don't you cut out the crap. I got more important things for you to do.
(then)
How's Paulie?
CLEMENZA
Oh, Paulie? Won't see him no more...
SONNY
(nods; then to Michael, who's walking out of the kitchen)
Where you going?
MICHAEL
To the city.
SONNY
No... wanna send some bodyguards with him – alright?
MICHAEL
... no, I'm just going to the hospital to see pop.
SONNY
Never mind; send somebody with him
CLEMENZA
Aw, he'll be alright – Sollozzo knows he's a civilian
SONNY
Alright; be careful, huh?
MICHAEL
(as he exits)
Yes, sir...
SONNY
Send somebody with him, anyway...
Clemenza chuckles.
CUT TO:
Michael goes to the city – early evening
Driven by bodyguards.
CUT TO:
Kay's hotel room
Michael and Kay are eating dinner, while "All of My Life" plays.
MICHAEL
(as he gets up to get his coat)
I have to go...
KAY
Can I go with you?
MICHAEL
You know, Kay, there's gonna be detectives there – people from the press...
KAY
Well, I'll ride in the cab...
MICHAEL
I don't want you to get involved...
KAY
When will I see you again?
MICHAEL
(after a long pause)
Go back to New Hampshire, and I'll call you at your parents' house.
KAY
When will I see you again, Michael?
MICHAEL
I don't know...
Michael kisses Kay, then exits.
DISSOLVE TO:
The hospital (10:30pm)
Michael arrives by cab. He enters the quiet hospital to find no one at the nurse's station. He walks down the hall to check an office, and only sees a half-finished sandwich on a desk. He runs down the hall and up the stairs towards his father's room. He pauses, noticing there is no guard outside the Don's door. He walks around the corner up to Room #2 and hesitates before he pushing the door open. His father is in the bed, and Michael wonders if he's alive. He walks up to the Don.
NURSE
(entering the room)
What are you doing here? You're not supposed to be here now!
MICHAEL
I'm Michael Corleone – this is my father.
(then)
There's nobody here. What happened to the guards?
NURSE
Your father just had too many visitors. They interfered with hospital service. The police made them leave about ten minutes ago.
As the nurse checks the Don's pulse, Michael picks up the phone.
MICHAEL
(into phone)
Ah, Get me, ah, Long Beach-4-5620, please...
(to nurse, who was leaving the room)
Nurse, wait a minute. Stay here.
(into phone)
Sonny, Michael. I'm at the hospital.
SONNY'S VOICE
(over the phone)
Yeah?
MICHAEL
(into the phone)
Listen – I got here late. There's nobody here.
SONNY'S VOICE
(over the phone)
What? Nobody?
MICHAEL
(into the phone)
Nobody... no no no Tessio's men, no detectives, nobody. Papa's all alone.
SONNY'S VOICE
(over the phone)
Don't panic – we'll send somebody...
MICHAEL
(loudly)
I won't panic!
He hangs up the phone.
NURSE
I'm sorry; but you will have to leave.
MICHAEL
(as he checks to see if the bed would fit through the doorway)
Uhh... You and I are gonna moo – move my father to another room. Now can you disconnect those tubes so we can move the bed out?
NURSE
That's out of the question!
MICHAEL
You know my father? Men are coming here to kill him. You understand? Now help m e, please.
Michael and nurse roll the Don's bed to another room. We hear a door close, then footsteps are heard coming up the stairs as Michael peers from the doorway. A man holding flowers seems to be looking for a room.
MICHAEL
(coming out of hiding)
Who are you?
ENZO
I am Enzo, the baker – Do you remember me?
MICHAEL
Enzo...
ENZO
Yes, Enzo...
MICHAEL
You better get out of here, Enzo; there's gonna be trouble...
ENZO
If there is trouble, I stay here to help you. For your father – for your father.
MICHAEL
Alright... Listen, wait for me outside in front of the hospital. Alright? I'll be out in a minute. Go ahead...
ENZO
Okay... okay.
Michael returns to the Don's room, at his bedside. The nurse is still in the room.
MICHAEL
Just lie here, Pop. I'll take care of you now. I'm with you now. I'm with you...
Michael kisses the Don's hand; the Don smiles, with a tear in his eye. Michael leaves to meet Enzo outside of the hospital.
MICHAEL
(grabbing and tossing the flowers that Enzo is still holding)
Get rid of these
(as Michael turns Enzo's collar up)
Come 'ere... Put your hand in your pocket like you have a gun. You'll be alright.
(after he sighs)
You'll be okay...
A black car pulls up to the front of the hospital. The occupants look at Michael and Enzo, as Michael undoes a button of his coat and puts his hand in, as if he had a gun. The car then drives off.
MICHAEL
You did good.
Enzo, very scared, takes out a cigarette and has trouble lighting it with his Zippo lighter. His hands are shaking. Michael takes the lighter and lights his cigarette, noticing that his hands are not shaking. Moments later, sirens are heard as police cars screech to a halt in front of the hospital. Michael shoos Enzo away as he is grabbed by an officer.
OFFICER
(grabbing Michael)
Now hold still...
CAPTAIN MCCLUSKEY
(entering the scene)
I thought I got all you guinea hoods locked up! What the hell are you doing here?
MICHAEL
What happened to the men who were guarding my father, captain?
MCCLUSKEY
Why you little punk! What the hell are you doing telling me my business? I pulled them guys off of here, eh! Now you get outta here – and stay away from this hospital!
MICHAEL
I'm not moving until you put some guards around my father's room.
MCCLUSKEY
Phil, take him in!
OFFICER PHIL
The kid's clean, Captain. He's a war hero. He's never been busted for the rackets...
MCCLUSKEY
(overlaps)
Goddamn it, I said take him in!
MICHAEL
What's the Turk paying you to set up my father, Captain?
MCCLUSKEY
Take a hold of him. Stand him up. Stand'im up straight.
McCluskey punches Michael in the jaw as a Corleone car screeches up. Men get out and run up the steps toward the Don's room. Tom and a couple of men go to get Michael.
TOM
I'm attorney for the Corleone family. These men are private detectives hired to protect Vito Corleone. They're licensed to carry firearms. If you interfere, you'll have to appear before a judge in the morning and show cause.
MCCLUSKEY
(to his officers)
Alright... let'im go.
(inaudible "Shit!" as he turns away)
Come on!
DISSOLVE TO:
Corleone mall – DAY
Clemenza and Michael get out of a car and walk through the gate, noticing armed men all over the mall. Tessio greets them.
CLEMENZA
What's with all the new faces?
TESSIO
We'll need'em now. After the hospital thing, Sonny got mad. We hit Bruno Tattaglia 4 o'clock this morning.
CLEMENZA
Jesus Christ...
(motions to Michael to come on)
It looks like a fortress around here...
CUT TO:
Inside the Corleone office – day
SONNY
(to Tom)
Tom-anuch! Hey, a hundred button men on the street twenty-four hours a day; that Turk shows one hair on his ass, he's dead –
TOM
(going to sit down)
Yeah?
SONNY
– believe me...
(to Michael, whose face is bruised from McCluskey's punch)
Hey, Michael, come're, let me look at you. You look beautiful! Beautiful! Just gorgeous!
(to Tom)
Hey, listen to this – the Turk wants to talk. Eh gosh – imagine the nerve of the sonofabitch, eh? Craps out last night, and wants a meetin' today...
TOM
What did he say?
SONNY
What did he say – Badda-beep, badda-bap, badda-boop, badda-beep – He wants us to send Michael here to proposition. And the promise is, that the deal is so good, that we can't refuse. Eh...
TOM
(as Tessio enters the room)
What about Bruno Tattaglia?
SONNY
That's part of the deal – Bruno cancels out what they did to my father...
TOM
Sonny, we ought to hear what they have to say...
SONNY
(standing in front of Tom, who's seated)
No, no, no! No more! Not this time, consiglieri. No more meetin's, no more discussions, no more Sollozzo tricks. You give'em one message: I want Sollozzo – if not, it's all-out war – we go to the mattresses...
TOM
(stands)
Some of the other families won't sit still for all-out war!
SONNY
Then they hand me Sollozzo!
TOM
You're father wouldn't want to hear this! This is business, not personal, Sonny !
SONNY
They shot my father – that's business? Your ass...
TOM
Even the shooting of your father was business, not personal, Sonny!
SONNY
(now seated behind the desk)
Well, then, business will have to suffer, alright? And listen – do me a favor , Tom – No more advice on how to patch things up, please. Just help me win, please, alright?
TOM
(after they settle down)
I found out about this Captain McCluskey who broke Mike's jaw...
SONNY
What about 'im?
TOM
Now he's definitely on Sollozzo's payroll, and for big money. McCluskey has agreed to be the Turk's bodyguard. What you have to understand, Sonny, is that while Sollozzo is being guarded like this, he is invulnerable. Now nobody has ever gunned down a New York police captain – never. It would be disastrous. All the Five Families would come after you, Sonny. The Corleone Family would be outcasts! Even the old man's political protection would run for cover! So do me a favor – take this into consideration.
SONNY
Alright. We'll wait.
MICHAEL
We can't wait.
SONNY
Huh?
MICHAEL
(who's seated with his arms on the chair's arms)
We can't wait. I don't care what Sollozzo says about a deal, he's gonna kill Pop, that's it. That's the key for him. Gotta get Sollozzo.
CLEMENZA
Mike is right...
SONNY
Lemme ask you something...? What about McCluskey? Huh? What do we do with this – cop here?
MICHAEL
They wanna to have a meeting with me, right? It will be me – McCluskey – and Sollozzo. Let's set the meeting. Get our informers to find out where it's gonna be held. Now, we insist it's a public place – a bar, a restaurant – some place where there's people so I feel safe. They're gonna search me when I first meet them, right? so I can't have a weapon on me then. But if Clemenza can figure a way – to have a weapon planted there for me, then I'll kill 'em both.
Clemenza, Tessio and Sonny laugh. Tom shrugs.
SONNY
Hey, whataya gonna do, nice college boy, eh? Didn't want to get mixed up in the Family business, huh? Now you wanna gun down a police captain, why, because he slapped ya in the face a little bit? Hah? What do you think this is, the Army, where you shoot 'em a mile away? You've gotta get up close like this and bada-bing! you blow their brains all over your nice Ivy League suit. Come're...
MICHAEL
(as Sonny kisses his head)
Sonny...
SONNY
You're taking this very personal. Tom, this is business and this man is taking it very very personal.
MICHAEL
Where does it say that you can't kill a cop?
HAGEN
Come on, Mikey...
MICHAEL
Tom, wait a minute. I'm talking about a cop – that's mixed up in drugs. I'm talking about ah... ah... a dishonest cop – a crooked cop who got mixed up in the rackets and got what was coming to him. That's a terrific story. And we have newspaper people on the pay roll, don't we, Tom? Hagen nods in the affirmative. And they might like a story like that.
HAGEN
They might, they just might...
MICHAEL
It's not personal, Sonny. It's strictly business.
CUT TO:
Clemenza's Cellar – DAY
Clemenza is showing Michael the gun he's to use.
CLEMENZA
It's as cold as they come – impossible to trace, so you don't worry about prints, Mike. I put a special tape on the trigger, and the butt. Here, try it...
(after Michael tries it but doesn't shoot it)
What's the matter, the trigger too tight?
MICHAEL
(after shooting the gun)
Oh, my ears...
CLEMENZA
(laughs)
Yeah, I left it noisy – that way it scares any pain-in-the-ass innocent bystanders away.
(then)
All right, you shot'em both – now what do you do?
MICHAEL
Sit down, finish my dinner...
CLEMENZA
Come on kid, don't fool around. Just let your hand drop to your side, and let the gun slip out. Everybody'll still think you got it. They're gonna be staring at your face, Mike – so walk outta the place real fast – but you don't run. Don't look nobody directly in the eye – but you don't look away, either. Hey, they're gonna be scared still of you, believe me, so don't worry about nothin'. You know, you're going to turn out all right. You take a long vacation – nobody knows where – and we're gonna catch the hell.
MICHAEL
How bad do you think it's gonna be?
CLEMENZA
Pretty goddamn bad. Probably all the other Families will line up against us. That's alright – this things gotta happen every five years or so – ten years – helps to get rid of the bad blood. Been ten years since the last one. You know you got to stop them at the beginning, like they should have stopped Hitler at Munich, They should've never let him get away with that. They were just asking for big trouble. You know, Mike, we was all proud of you – being a hero and all. Your father, too.
Clemenza hands Michael the gun after adjusting it. Michael points and fires the unloaded gun.
CUT TO:
The Corleone Dining Room (6:30pm)
Sonny, Clemenza, Tessio and Rocco are sitting around, eating Chinese food while waiting for news about where the Sollozzo meeting will take place. Michael smokes as the others eat.
TOM
(as he enters)
Nothing. Not a hint. Absolutely nothing – even Sollozzo's people don't know wh ere the meeting's going to be held.
MICHAEL
How much time do we have?
SONNY
(checking his watch)
They're gonna pick you up in front of Jack Dempsey's joint in an hour and a half. Exactly an hour and a half.
CLEMENZA
We could put a tail on them and see how it turns out...
SONNY
Sollozzo'd lose our ass going around the block!
TOM
What about the negotiator?
CLEMENZA
He's over at my place playin' pinochle with a couple of my men. He's happy, the y're lettin' him win...
TOM
There's too much of a risk for Mike – maybe we outta call it off, Sonny.
CLEMENZA
The negotiator keeps on playing cards until Mike comes back safe and sound.
SONNY
So why don't he just blast whoever's in the goddamn car?
CLEMENZA
Too dangerous – they'd be lookin' for that.
TOM
Sollozzo might not even be in the car, Sonny!
The phone rings, Sonny gets up to get it.
SONNY
I'll get it.
(into the phone)
Yeah – Yeah – Well, thanks...
(after hanging up the phone and returning to the table)
Louis' Restaurant in the Bronx.
TOM
Well is it reliable?
SONNY
That's my man in McCluskey's precinct. A police captain's gotta be on call twenty-four hours a day. He signed out at that number between eight and ten. Anybody know this joint?
TESSIO
Yeah, sure, I do. It's perfect for us. A small family place, good food. Everyone minds his business. It's perfect. Pete they got an old-fashion toilet – you know, the box, and... and... and... ah the chain-thing. We might be able to tape the gun behind it.
CLEMENZA
All right, Mike: you go to the restaurant, you eat, you talk for a while, you relax. You make them relax. Then you get up and you go take a leak. No – better still – you ask for permission to go. Then when you come back, you come out blastin', and don't take any chances – two shots in the head apiece.
SONNY
Listen, I want somebody good – and I mean very good – to plant that gun. I don't want my brother coming out of that toilet with just his dick in his hands, alright?
CLEMENZA
The gun'll be there...
SONNY
All right
(to Tessio)
Listen, you drive him and you pick him up after the job, okay?
CLEMENZA
Come on, let's move...
As they're standing by the door, preparing to leave.
MICHAEL'S VOICE (O.S.)
Thank you, Tom...
SONNY
Did he – ah – tell you to drop the gun right away?
MICHAEL
Yeah, a million times.
CLEMENZA
You don't forget: two shots apiece in the head soon as you come out the door, ah? Let's go...
MICHAEL
How long do you think it'll be before I can come back?
SONNY
At least a year, Mike. Listen – um – I'll square it with Mom, uh – you know, you're not seeing her before you leave; and uh, I'll get a message to that girlfriend, when I think the time is right.
(after he and Michael embrace)
Take care, huh?
TOM
Take care, Mike...
MICHAEL
(embracing Tom)
Tom.
DISSOLVE TO:
Jack Dempsey's Restaurant (8:00pm)
Michael's waiting on the sidewalk until Sollozzo's car pulls up and he gets in.
SOLLOZZO
I'm glad you came, Mike. I hope we can straighten everything out. I mean, this is terrible – it's not the way I wanted things to go at all. It should've never happened.
MICHAEL
We'll straighten everything out tonight. I don't want my father bothered any more...
SOLLOZZO
He won't be, Mike; I swear on my children he won't be. But you gotta keep an op en mind when we talk. I mean, I hope you're not a hothead like your brother Sonny. You – can't talk business with him... something in Italian.
MCCLUSKEY
Ahh, he's a good kid.
(as he leans forward)
I'm sorry about the other night, Mike. I gotta frisk you, so turn around uh – on your knees, facing me.
(as McCluskey frisks Michael)
Ah, I guess I'm gettin' too old for my job. Too grouchy – can't stand the aggravation. You know how it is...
(to Sollozzo)
He's clean.
A little while later, as the car begins to cross the Triborough bridge. Michael notices the sign that says "To New Jersey".
MICHAEL
We're goin' to Jersey?
SOLLOZZO
Maybe...
Sollozzo's car does a high-speed U-turn, cutting off cars who sound there horn, as he crosses over the road's divider into the other direction across the bridge.
SOLLOZZO
Nice work, Lou.
Later, the car pulls up to Louis' Italian-American Restaurant. They go in.
DISSOLVE TO:
At a table in Louis' Italian Restaurant
The waiter brings a bottle of wine to the table.
MCCLUSKEY
How's the Italian food in this restaurant?
SOLLOZZO
Good – try the veal – it's the best in the city.
MCCLUSKEY
I'll have it.
SOLLOZZO
(to the waiter)
Capide?
(after the waiter nods, opens the bottle and pours the wine)
All right.
(to McCluskey)
I'm gonna speak Italian to Mike.
MCCLUSKEY
Go ahead...
SOLLOZZO
Me dispiace?
(after Michael nods; in Italian)
What happened to your father was business – I have much respect for your f