The Complex Reasons Behind Fredo’s Hatred in 'The Godfather'

The infamous question of Fredo's hatred towards Michael Corleone in 'The Godfather' has been a topic of discussion among fans for decades. Many believe that his resentment stems from his perceived betrayal by Michael. However, the true reasons behind Fredo's hatred are far more complex and rooted in a mix of jealousy, resentment, and personal betrayal.

Jealousy and Resentment

Fredo, as the son and brother of the late Vito Corleone, had expected to become the next in line for the family's vast empire. This expectation was fueled by his belief that he should have been the designated heir due to his proximity to the late Sonny. He felt that his father had 'stepped over' him, leaving him with a stature as an "errand boy" for Michael.

This frustration and resentment are clearly articulated in a pivotal scene where Fredo confronts Michael after Pentangeli agrees to testify. In this meeting, Fredo expresses his anger bluntly, declaring, 'I was stepped over.' This statement encapsulates his deep-seated jealousy and resentment towards Michael, who had taken over the reigns without Fredo’s consent or understanding.

Deleted Scenes and Unforeseen Frustrations

Despite the clear depiction of Fredo's feelings in rewatchable deleted scenes, fan theories and questions about his hatred persist. These scenes provide valuable insights into Fredo’s character and the reasons behind his feelings of resentment. For instance, in one scene, Fredo bursts into a room to inform Michael about a visitor, only to be overlooked for family business. This snub, orchestrated by Vito, clearly contributed to Fredo's frustration and anger, especially when juxtaposed with the fact that Michael continued to sideline him in personal matters.

In another deleted scene, Fredo’s wife makes fun of him, further exacerbating his feelings of inadequacy and resentment. These scenes not only reveal Fredo’s complex emotions but also underscore the lack of familial support and recognition, which built up his resentment over time.

External Influences and Manipulation

Besides his internal struggles, Fredo also faced external manipulation from Johnny Ola. Johnny Ola, on realizing Fredo's resentment, suggested that if Michael were removed from the picture, Fredo would have a better chance of assuming a higher position. Despite Michael's reassurances, Johnny Ola sowed the seeds of discontent, making Fredo believe that he could rise in the ranks by simply negotiating a deal.

The relatively simple task of ensuring that Michael’s bedroom curtains were open turned into a rogue mission. Fredo’s actions in Cuba, though many do not consider them the direct cause of his death, illustrate his growing resentment towards Michael. Despite predicting that his actions would result in modest trouble, Fredo acted out of a desire for revenge, a deep-seated anger accumulated over years of being overlooked and undervalued.

Conclusion

The multifaceted nature of Fredo’s hatred towards Michael Corleone in 'The Godfather' is rooted in a combination of jealousy, resentment, and personal betrayal. While his actions in Cuba are often seen as a betrayal, they were more of a desperate act of seeking recognition and respect. The ongoing questions about Fredo’s motives highlight the depth and complexity of human emotions, especially within the intricate and often ruthless landscape of organized crime.

Understanding the underlying reasons for Fredo’s actions enriches our perspective on the intricate workings of 'The Godfather' and the character dynamics that drive the narrative. The multiple factors contributing to his hatred shed light on the emotional and psychological aspects of the story, making it all the more engaging and thought-provoking.