Instead of discussing the single most obvious cinematic choice itself, let us talk instead about the process. About how the director created a 'book' to shoot from instead of a traditional script, so as to constantly be loyal to the atmosphere of Mario Puzo's epochal novel (Watch that on video, it's a masterclass).

About how Coppola threatened to quit if relative unknown Al Pacino wasn't cast. About how Nino Rota's famous Love Theme was wonderfully recycled from an old Italian comedy. And about how the horse's head was real.

Everything about the film is now classic. From the absolutely perfect cast to the use of music, from the dialogues to the myths behind the characters, from the thunderbolt to the baptism to the closing door. From the flavour to the finish, The Godfather captures the imagination and remains as timeless today as it was 36 years ago.

It's best to let the film speak for itself. In this scene, James Caan's furious Sonny Corleone bashes up his brother-in-law Carlo Rizzi, played by Gianni Russo.

Note the attention to detail, the innocuous lead-in shot of kids frolicking in water, and the unflinching framing that focusses on the fight as well as the onlookers.

Click here for the video, and note also the brutality with which Caan launches into Russo, breaking two of his ribs and chipping his elbow during filming.

Not for authenticity, but because he really didn't like the guy. Isn't that just how Don Vito's eldest son should roll? Bada-bing.

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