The Drape Incident: Unraveling the Mystery in 'The Godfather'

In The Godfather, a pivotal scene in the film involves Michael Corleone opening his bedroom drapes during an assassination attempt. This action inadvertently exposes Michael to gunfire, highlighting Fredo Corleone's betrayal and reinforcing his role in the failed hit. However, some argue that it was not Fredo or Pantangeli who opened the drapes but another unknown traitor. Let's delve into the mystery.

The Plots and Characters Involved

To understand the dynamics here, we need to consider the characters involved:

Fredo Corleone: Fredo is Michael's brother and has a hidden loyalty to Hyman Roth, a rival mob leader. Frank Pantangeli: Pantangeli is a loyal member of the Corleone family, known for his unyielding support of the family. Johnny Ola: A character known for his connections and disloyalty, Johnny Ola could have motives to betray the family. Hagen: Hagen, the family advisor, is not known for his brutality and would not be the one to open the drapes.

It is generally accepted that Fredo opened the drapes, but there is a sense of certainty and logic to this. Fredo had intimate knowledge of the house and knew every detail. Moreover, his weak personality made him an easy target for manipulation.

Reasoning and Analysis

Fredo had the easiest access to the house and would not raise suspicion if he opened the drapes. His involvement with Hyman Roth and Johnny Ola further supports the idea that he was the one to act on the spur of the moment, fearful of the consequences if he did not.

Furthermore, Fredo's actions in the movie, particularly his lack of information about Hyman Roth and his connections, suggest a lack of trust and a potential betrayal. This aligns with his opening the drapes without a second thought.

It is also possible that Pantangeli or another family member acted as a distraction, while Fredo opened the drapes, effectively drawing the assassins' attention away from Michael.

Conclusion

The mystery of who exactly opened the drapes during the assassination attempt remains a point of intrigue. While some might argue that more than one person was involved, the evidence points towards Fredo Corleone as the most likely culprit. His hidden loyalties and known weak moral compass make him the most probable candidate.

Regardless of the truth, this scene in The Godfather serves as a powerful illustration of the complex relationships and betrayals within the Corleone family, highlighting the thin line between loyalty and treachery.

Key Points:

Fredo Corleone had the most plausible motive and means to open the drapes. Fredo's character and hidden loyalties align with his actions in the scene. Michael Corleone's absence leaves room for others to act on his behalf or as distractions.

For fans of The Godfather, this scene continues to spark debate and discussion, making it an integral part of the film's enduring legacy.