The Influence of Real-life Mafia Figures on The Godfather

The Godfather, one of the most iconic films in modern cinema, has captivated audiences for generations with its intricate portrayal of the Mafia world. However, the grandeur and character development in the film are not entirely fictional. Rather, Mario Puzo, the author of the novel, drew heavily from real-life Mafia figures for his creation. This article explores the origins and real-life inspirations behind the portrayal of key characters in The Godfather.

Key Figures and Their Influence

The choice of real-life Mafia bosses and figures as inspirations was no mere coincidence. According to various sources and personal knowledge, Mario Puzo combined a variety of Mafia bosses to form the distinct characters in his masterpiece. For instance, Willie Moretti, who allegedly put pressure on Tommy Dorsey to sign a release, inspired elements of Don Vito Corleone. Additionally, Puzo considered the possibility of Albert Anastasia having a number of sons, which contributed to the creation of various characters in the film.

Personal Encounters with Mafia Associates

As someone who has met over a dozen individuals with connections to organized crime, I can attest that many of them are surprisingly normal individuals. There’s one individual, in particular, that stands out. This man, weighing over 300 pounds and standing at 5 feet 9 inches, had a heavy Italian accent and spoke in low tones. He only allowed those cleared to be in his presence and had a girlfriend with a very particular size issue. His profession involved eliminating any obstacles that stood in the way of high-level profit-making. He became known as the "most dangerous hitman in the world," known to have connections all the way back to Italy and even eliminating politicians and media figures. This persona is not unlike that of the character Don Vito Corleone in The Godfather, making him the ideal prototype.

Specific Character Inspirations

Emilio Barzini (see below) Philip Tartaglia (see below) Virgil Sollozzo (see below) Johnny Ola (see below)

Don Vito Corleone's Real-life Influences

Don Vito Corleone, with his distinctive Sicilian accent and old-school boss demeanor, can be traced back to several real-life Mafia figures. His voice, reminiscent of Frank Costello, is an amalgamation of the characteristics of famous Mafia bosses. As an olive oil importer, Joe Profaci inspired a significant aspect of his character. Holding court and doing favors was a hallmark of Carlo Gambino, and his more traditional Sicilian boss nature was influenced by Joe Bonanno. Lastly, the crumpled clothing he wore in the film harks back to the iconic Carlo Vizini, a Sicilian mob boss known for his distinctive style.

Conclusion

The Godfather did not just invent characters and locations. It drew from concrete, real-life Mafia figures, providing a cultural touchstone for generations. Mario Puzo's choice of inspirations reflects the complexity and influence of organized crime, and the film's realism has resonated with audiences since its inception.

Emilio Barzini: Modelling on Vito Genovese

Among the Mafia figures that Mario Puzo adapted, Emilio Barzini is loosely based on the real-life Vito Genovese. The character of Barzini, with his sophisticated and polished appearance, reflects the cool and calculating nature of Genovese, a man of substance and influence in the Mafia world. This character demonstrates the strategic and powerful figure that Genovese was in the New York Mafia.

Philip Tartaglia: Albert Anastasia and His Sons

Philip Tartaglia is based on the infamous Albert Anastasia, who was known for his brutal methods and political influence. Anastasia's personality and the mention of his potential sons in the film highlight the complexity and intrigue of Tartaglia within the storyline. The character Tartaglia carries the weight of a man with a considerable power base and a volatile temper, much like Anastasia.

Virgil Sollozzo: Joe Gallo

Virgil Sollozzo, the conniving and ruthless antagonistic figure, is loosely based on the real-life Joey Gallo. Gallo was known for his cunning and aggressive tactics, making him a fitting inspiration for Sollozzo's character. His involvement with drug trafficking and his enmity towards the Corleone family in the film align closely with the real-life activities and character of Joey Gallo. Sollozzo represents the dangerous element in the Mafia world, someone who is willing to do whatever it takes to gain power and control.

Johnny Ola: Vincent Alo

Johnny Ola is a character in the film who is believed to be based on Vincent Alo, a member of the Mafia who was involved in several high-profile killings. Alo's real-life career as a hitman is reflected in Johnny Ola's character, who is portrayed as a lethal and dangerous figure. His presence in the film underscores the Mafia's connections to organized crime and violent activities.