Unveiling the Truth in 'The Godfather Part III': How Do Anthony and Kay Know Michael Ordered Fredo’s Death?

In 'The Godfather Part III', Anthony and Kay Corleone come to understand that Michael Corleone was responsible for ordering his brother Fredo's death through a combination of conversation and context within the film. This revelation is fraught with tension, as it brings to light the darker aspects of the Corleone family legacy.

Context and Conversations

Kay Corleone, consistently critical of Michael's criminal lifestyle, plays a pivotal role in uncovering the truth. During a significant scene, Kay confronts Michael about the family's history and the consequences of his actions. It is during this confrontation that Kay reveals her understanding of the implications of Fredo's death. This scene serves as a turning point for both Anthony and Kay, highlighting the complex nature of their relationship with Michael.

Anthony, Michael's son, also gains insight into Fredo's fate through his interactions with his father and the broader context of the family's criminal endeavors. As the narrative unfolds, both Kay and Anthony come to understand that Michael's ruthless decisions, including the order to kill Fredo, are an integral part of the larger narrative of betrayal and power within the Corleone family.

Anthony's Perspective

Anthony's perspective is crucial in understanding how he and Kay came to understand the truth. The film suggests that Anthony saw Fredo's murder from his room, an event that filled him with resentment towards his father for using him as a pawn. Anthony's loyalty to Kay emerges during a significant moment in the film when Kay expresses her understanding of the situation, saying, 'I know, Anthony. I can see this too.'

Concluding the narrative, Anthony chose to confide in Kay about what he witnessed, and this revelation deepened their bond, as Anthony aligned with Kay in their growing distrust of Michael's methods. This act of faith between them highlights the evolving dynamics within the Corleone family.

Speculation and Possibilities

Just before Fredo's death, Anthony is meant to accompany him, but Connie directs him to Michael, who in turn tells Anthony to go to Reno. This turn of events may have led Anthony to question his father's actions and to be involved in their secrecy, possibly swearing Kay to secrecy. However, there is speculation that Connie, despite claiming it was an accident in 'The Godfather' films, may have known the truth and divulged it to Kay and Anthony years later.

Given the dangerous nature of the information, it is likely that any disclosure of the truth was delayed, adding to the complexity of the situation. Kay, being the insightful character she is, may have pieced together these clues over time, leading to her eventual realization that Michael ordered Fredo's death.

In conclusion, the truth about Michael's order to kill Fredo is not simply a matter of direct confrontation but a result of the context and conversations woven throughout 'The Godfather Part III'. As viewers, we are left to piece together the intricate web of family secrets and realize the far-reaching consequences of Michael's decisions.