The Modern History

Francis Ford Coppola’s notes for The Godfather

I find it interesting that Coppola refers to Hitchcock on both pages of Mario Puzo’s novel. I’ve never considered Hitchcock’s influence on The Godfather but Coppola was obviously thinking of him when prepping for the film. 

The alternate cast list is also interesting. I can see Martin Sheen in the role of Michael Corleone, but Dustin Hoffman? James Caan was great as Sonny but I can definitely see John Saxon in the role. Saxon could have played Tom Hagen as well.

What if…?

Sources: 

http://ruinawish.tumblr.com/post/10054412563/coppolas-notes-on-the-dons-shooting-in-the

http://ruinawish.tumblr.com/post/7402324061/coppola-plots-out-the-intensity-of-the-scene-in

http://unobtainium13.com/2011/07/02/what-could-have-been-the-godfather/