Godfather Quotes: Top Moments and Iconic Lines Revisited

The iconic Godfather series, centered around the lives of Vito Corleone, his son Michael, and their family, has left a lasting impact on both society and cinema. Set in New York City, these films explore themes such as honor, family, and the pursuit of the American dream, all while delving into the world of the Mafia. You will find that the memorable quotes from the Godfather trilogy not only offer a glimpse into the characters’ view of crime and society, but also embody timeless lessons about family values and maintaining one’s dignity.

As you explore these famous Godfather quotes, you will be able to sense the gravity and depth of emotions shared between the characters, reflecting the strong bonds within the Corleone family. Your appreciation for the masterpiece that is the Godfather series will deepen, as you recall the moments and lines that have cemented its place in cinematic history. So, immerse yourself in the world of the Godfather and rediscover the powerful words that have resonated with audiences for decades.

Quote List 1 – 25

In this section, you’ll find a selection of memorable Godfather quotes that touch on a variety of topics such as respect, friendship, virtues, and more.

1. “I’m gonna make him an offer he can’t refuse.” – Don Vito Corleone

Take a moment to reflect on this iconic line spoken by Marlon Brando as Vito Corleone, a character who epitomizes power and respect in the world of organized crime.

2. “Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer.” – Michael Corleone

This line is a reminder of the importance of knowing and understanding one’s adversaries, a lesson that Michael Corleone, played by Al Pacino, learns too well.

3. “Never hate your enemies. It affects your judgment.” – Michael Corleone

This wise piece of advice underscores the need for clear-headedness and objectivity, which often leads to better decision-making.

4. “A friend should always underestimate your virtues and an enemy overestimate your faults.” – Don Vito Corleone

A subtle reminder of the complexities of human relationships and the different expectations one should have from friends and foes.

5. “Great men are not born great; they grow great.” – Vito Corleone

This quote by Vito Corleone highlights the journey and development one undergoes to achieve greatness in their life.

6. “Revenge is a dish that tastes best when served cold.” – Michael Corleone

Here, Michael Corleone emphasizes the patience and focus needed when seeking retribution.

7. “Friendship is everything. Friendship is more than talent. It is more than the government. It is almost the equal of family.” – Don Vito Corleone

In a world where loyalty and trust are rare, this quote highlights the immense value that friendship holds for someone like Vito Corleone.

8. “I spent my whole life trying not to be careless. Women and children can be careless, but not men.” – Vito Corleone

Throughout The Godfather, we observe how Vito Corleone places significant importance on being vigilant and responsible, particularly as a man.

Moving forward in the list, you’ll notice more iconic quotes that delve deeper into themes of death, loyalty, and family dynamics present in The Godfather trilogy.

Quote List 26 – 50

In this section, let’s look at Godfather quotes 26 – 50 that focus on family, friends, loyalty, friendship, honor, and revenge. These quotes are adapted from the writings of Mario Puzo and the direction of Francis Ford Coppola. Remember, these are presented in a friendly tone and formatted to help you easily read and understand them.

26. “I never thought you were a bad consigliere, Tom. I thought Santino was a bad don, rest in peace.” – Michael Corleione

27. “Women and children can be careless, but not men.” – Don Vito Corleone

28. “It’s a Sicilian message. It means Luca Brasi sleeps with the fishes.” – Peter Clemenza

29. “I believe in America.” – Amerigo Bonasera

30. “So, Barzini will move against you first.” – Tom Hagen

31. “Never let anyone know what you are thinking.” – Don Vito Corleone

32. “Revenge is a dish that tastes best when it is cold.” – Mario Puzo

33. “I want reliable people, people that aren’t going to be carried away. I mean, we’re not murdering. It’s a coup, a takeover.” – Michael Corleione

34. “Never hate your enemies. It affects your judgment.” – Mario Puzo

35. “My father’s no different than any powerful man, any man who’s responsible for other people, like a senator or president.” – Michael Corleione

36. “I’ve learned more in the last month working for your father than I learned in my entire life.” – Johnny Fontane

37. “Accidents don’t happen to people who take accidents as a personal insult.” – Mario Puzo

38. “A man who doesn’t spend time with his family can never be a real man.” – Don Vito Corleone

39. “You cannot say ‘no’ to the people you love, not often. That’s the secret. And then, when you do, it has to sound as though you’re saying ‘yes’.” – Mario Puzo

40. “This is the life we chose, the life we lead. And there is only one guarantee: none of us will see heaven.” – Michael Corleione

41. “Fredo, you’re my older brother, and I love you. But don’t ever take sides with anyone against the Family again.” – Michael Corleione

42. “Leave the gun, take the cannoli.” – Peter Clemenza

43. “In Sicily, women are more dangerous than shotguns.” – Calo

44. “Like a lazy dog, friendship is buried most quickly under an avalanche of calamity.” – Mario Puzo

45. “When it comes to brains, loyalty, and heart, there is no greater man than Frankie Pentangeli.” – Michael Corleione

46. “I’m not a drinker; I can remember all the bad times I had when I was drinking.” – Al Neri

47. “You’re no more a criminal than I am. What you taught me is that there is a line, and within that line, as long as you don’t cross it, you don’t break the law.” – Albert Volpe

48. “I wouldn’t think of asking Michael, not without his father’s permission.” – Hyman Roth

49. “How did things ever go so far? We are not animals. We have a business. We have a family. All that bloodshed was unnecessary.” – Don Vito Corleone

50. “We work in the dark. We do what we can. We give what we have. Our doubt is our passion and our passion is our task. The rest is the madness of art.” – Vincent Mancini

Enjoy these quotes and let them remind you of the powerful themes presented in the timeless classic, The Godfather.

Quote List 51 – 75

Here is a list of memorable quotes, featuring some of your favorite characters from The Godfather including Vito Corleone, Michael, Marlon Brando, and Al Pacino.

1. “I spent my whole life trying not to be careless. Women and children can afford to be careless, but not men.” – Vito Corleone (source)
2. “Leave the gun. Take the cannoli.” – Clemenza (source)
3. “It’s not personal, Sonny. It’s strictly business.” – Michael (source)
4. “I refused to be a fool, dancing on the string held by all those big shots.” – Don Vito Corleone (source)
5. “A man who doesn’t spend time with his family can never be a real man.” – Vito Corleone (source)

As a businessman, it’s essential to distinguish between personal and professional matters. For example, take number 3 where Michael says, “It’s not personal, Sonny. It’s strictly business.”

6. “Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer.” – Michael (source)
7. “I have learned more about the life in the past ten years than I have in my life. And I have learned about the importance of loyalty.” – Vito Corleone (source)
8. “There are many things my father taught me here in this room. He taught me: keep your friends close, but your enemies closer.” – Michael (source)
9. “In Sicily, women are more dangerous than shotguns.” – Calo (source)
10. “Never let anyone know what you are thinking.” – Vito Corleone (source)

To maintain your power and influence, always practice discretion and avoid revealing your intentions, as showcased by Vito Corleone in quote number 10.

11. “He was a good lawyer, but law is the art of bending the truth.” – Vito Corleone, referring to Tom Hagen (source)
12. “I’m going to make him an offer he can’t refuse.” – Don Vito Corleone (source)
13. “If you don’t start showing some gratitude and humility, I’m going to start seriously reevaluating our partnership.” – Michael, speaking to Moe Greene (source)
14. “I believe in America. America has made me free.” – Amerigo Bonasera (source)
15. “All the power on earth can’t change destiny.” – Michael Corleone (source)

While you navigate life, remember humility and gratitude, like in quote 13 where Michael advises Moe Greene to show gratitude and humility.

Never forget these iconic Godfather quotes, as they serve as great examples of the film’s unforgettable characters, timeless wisdom, and the power of a well-crafted narrative.

Quote List 76 – 100

Below are some iconic quotes from The Godfather trilogy. These quotes touch upon the themes of family, business, and destiny. Enjoy!

76. “In this family business, you are made accidentally or intentionally by someone.” – Don Corleone

Here’s a list of memorable quotes related to family business and some of the major characters in the movie:

1. “I’m gonna make him an offer he can’t refuse.” – Don Corleone
2. “It’s strictly business.” – Michael Corleone
3. “Leave the gun. Take the cannoli.” – Clemenza
4. “Luca Brasi sleeps with the fishes.” – Rocco
5. “I believe in America. America has made my fortune.” – Amerigo Bonasera
6. “You can have my answer now, if you like. My offer is this: nothing.” – Michael Corleone

Next, we have a few quotes involving other characters like Kay Adams, Carlo, Paulie, and the theme of destiny:

1. “Michael, we’re bigger than U.S. Steel.” – Kay Adams
2. “You have to answer for Santino, Carlo.” – Michael Corleone
3. “I’m just a tired businessman.” – Paulie
4. “You never think of the future, of the accidents.” – Carlo

Finally, here are some more quotes about destiny and personal choices:

1. “He had become prey to accidents.” – Michael Corleone
2. “I refuse to be a fool, dancing on the strings held by all those big shots.” – Don Corleone
3. “In Sicily, things are as they are.” – Michael Corleone discussing destiny
4. “I make mistakes that cause accidents.” – Kay Adams
5. “This is my life. This is my destiny.” – Michael Corleone

These quotes show the depth and complexity of The Godfather trilogy, making it an unforgettable cinematic masterpiece.