The Hidden Anger of Vito Corleone: An Analysis of His Role in The Godfather

Throughout the legendary film series The Godfather, Vito Corleone is portrayed as a dignified and controlled individual, often perceived as unflappable. However, beneath this veneer of calm lies a complex reservoir of emotion, particularly anger. Does Vito display his fury within the Godfather films, or are his fits of rage merely thinly veiled?

Anger and Comedy

The portrayal of Vito Corleone's temper in the first film The Godfather (1972) is indeed limited. One of the few times his anger is hinted at is during Johnny Fontaine's visit to discuss his weak performances. In this scene, Vito not only slaps but vocally rebukes Johnny, much to the latter's embarrassment (as seen in the script provided).

Control and Pride

Vito's anger is far more deeply entrenched. He does get angry, but his control of this emotion is remarkable. This is particularly evident in the aftermath of his father's murder, when he lays a quiet but firm hand on the man responsible, defusing the situation with an unspoken threat of violence. Vito believes deeply in the Sicilian philosophy of hiding one's anger to avoid being vulnerable, a lesson he learned from his own father who was killed by the Mafia.

Fiercely Controlled Emotions

In his youth, Vito employs controlled temper as a survival strategy. He faces the menace of Fanucci with a hidden ice in his chest. For Vito, a display of anger is akin to an invitation to death, a lesson grimly learned from the death of his father. This is often seen when Vito sternly and calmly refuses to be provoked, as in his meeting with the corrupt foremen.

Power and Temper

Vito's assertion that one can only afford to show temper when they have power is a fundamental principle in his interactions. His voice is always reasonable and courteous, never allowing his anger to be seen. However, those who know him well can recognize his fury when it does surface. An example is seen in the tension between him and his son, Sonny, particularly in their conversation about his theater work. Vito's cool demeanor is shattered by the knowledge that he is disappointing his father.

Fredo's Controversy Without Display

Control of his temper is even more nuanced in his relationship with his youngest son, Fredo. When Fredo's behavior becomes problematic in Las Vegas, Vito's anger is revealed indirectly. Fredo's mere presence is met with a curt and dismissive response, despite the family's ongoing issues with his gambling and lack of discipline. This is a stark contrast to the more direct confrontation when Sonny took the lead in a robbery, another rare instance of Vito showing his anger.

Overall, Vito Corleone's temper is a deeply controlled and nuanced aspect of his character. While his fits of rage may be rare, they are always well-calculated and pointed, underscoring the importance of discretion and self-restraint in the world of organized crime. His anger is not only a survival tool but a means of exerting power and influence without signaling vulnerability.

Conclusion

Vito Corleone, despite appearing stoic and calm, harbors a complex array of emotions, particularly anger. His unique ability to control and manage his emotions is a critical element of his character, making his infrequent displays of temper all the more impactful.