The Role of Michael Corleone in The Godfather if Sonny Remained Alive

Delving into the intricate dynamics of The Godfather movies, one interesting what-if scenario emerges: what if Sonny Corleone returned to the family alive? This thought experiment helps us understand the complex relationships between the main characters and the potential shifts in power that could have occurred. The Godfather movie and novel were more than just fictional accounts; they painted a picture of real-life gangster dynamics and the ambitions of the Corleone family members.

Vito Corleone's Ambitions for Michael

When the film and book introduce Michael Corleone, he is portrayed as a military hero, similar to John F. Kennedy. Just like Joe Kennedy coveted his son to enter politics, Vito Corleone also desired his son to follow a path of political respect and influence rather than joining the family's criminal activities. In a pivotal scene, Vito explicitly states that he never wanted Michael to get involved in the family business, wishing for him to become a senator or governor, rather than a Mafia leader.

The Complexity of Sonny's Leadership

Vito Corleone was very selective in choosing his successors and believed that Sonny was not the ideal candidate to become the Don. He considered Sonny to possess tactical skills that would have made him a capable Caporegime, but lacking the necessary qualities to lead the entire family. Vito's decision to encourage Michael toward a career in politics reflects his desire to ensure that the next generation of Corleone leadership would be perceived as legitimate and acceptable to mainstream society.

The Potential Impact on Michael's Role

Consider the scenario where Sonny had not been killed and instead, he and Michael had co-leadership of the Corleone family. This shift would have significantly altered the power dynamic. Michael would likely have used his political influence to protect the family, ensuring their immunity from legal action even if they engaged in illegal activities. This mirrors real-world instances where political connections can shield criminal organizations from law enforcement.

A case in point is federal Judge Andrew Cuomo. While not directly involved in the Mafia, it is speculated that his family's history with organized crime has influenced his political career. Similarly, his brother Chris Cuomo, now a prominent figure in media, advised Andrew in the face of potential corruption allegations. This suggests that even in a legal career, connections to organized crime can be both a curse and a benefit.

The Struggle for Dominance

Regardless of whether Michael would have been a corrupt politician, it is clear that he would have used his political influence to secure the Corleone family's interests. This is further evidenced by the dynamics depicted in real-life political figures with organized crime ties. The story of the Cuomo brothers and their father Mario Cuomo showcases how individuals with ties to organized crime can navigate the political landscape with relative ease. Even if Vito had made peace with Sonny, the family would still face challenges in maintaining their influence and power.

In conclusion, the hypothetical scenario where Sonny remained alive would have necessitated a complex realignment of power within the Corleone family. Michael's political savvy would likely have played a crucial role in securing the family's future, even if it meant questionable means to do so. The Godfather series, by exploring these intricate power struggles, offers valuable insights into the intersection of politics and organized crime, resonating with real-world scenarios.