Last Updated on May 7, 2025 by Matt Staff
These photos of The Godfather behind the scenes bring a whole new look to the film. The Godfather isn’t just a movie, it’s a cornerstone of American cinema. When it hit theaters in 1972, it transformed the gangster genre and turned director Francis Ford Coppola into a household name. But behind its polished performances and unforgettable lines was a production filled with tension, last-minute changes, and a studio constantly at odds with the director. Here are 20 behind-the-scenes photos from The Godfather.
1. The squad’s all here
James Caan, Marlon Brando, director Francis Ford Coppola, Al Pacino, and John Cazale.
2. Coppola has some serious style
This behind-the-scenes photo from The Godfather truly emphasizes the relationship between the directors and actors.
3. He’s showing him where to aim for the perfect shot
Having to do multiple takes of getting shot in the head must be extremely annoying.
4. The horse is one of the best actors in the film
Although he doesn’t look very happy to be handled right now.
5. Pacino is still in character while he’s getting his costume fixed
He has one of the most terrifying still faces ever to touch the screen.
6. Behind-the-scenes makeup for The Godfather
During makeup sessions, Coppola (the director) would talk through the scrips with Marlon Brando.
7. Coppola explains how to do the take
Coppola was almost fired multiple times, especially when the film went over budget.
8. Directing the wedding celebration for The Godfather
It must be tricky as a director to take charge of a large group of people like this.
9. James Caan, Robert Duvall, and Marlon Brando on set
The budget was originally $2.5 million but ballooned to around $6–7 million, which was still modest for such an ambitious film.
10. The actors don’t look very pleased to be there
It must have been a long day.
11. Al Pacino behind the scenes
This was the scene where Apollonia and Michael met for the first time.
12. Marlon Brando’s jaw prosthetic for The Godfather
Good thing he put his name on there. The prosthetic literally transformed his face.
13. Al Pacino and Marlon Brando passing the time on set for The Godfather
You can tell it’s off-screen because of how happy they look.
14. Coppola explaining the shooting scene
This was one of the most iconic scenes from the film.
15. James Caan and Francis Ford Coppola discussing beating the soul out of Gianni Russo on set
You can see here camera angles make it look like they’re actually hitting someone; the kicks are about a foot away.
16. Francis Ford Coppola talking Pacino through a scene
It’s a skill to be able to calm an actor when they can’t get the scene right.
17. Brando doesn’t look pleased that Al Pacino had to tie his shoe
Maybe he’s still in character, but it would be way more funny if he were mad at him.
18. Marlon Brando and John Cazale laughing their way to the set
Actors never cease to amaze me. Walking to set laughing, and transforming into a monster as soon as they get on set.
19. Director Francis Ford Coppola with his daughter on set
Bringing your daughter on the set of The Godfather is a questionable parenting move.
Looking for more behind-the-scenes movie content?
Check out these 20 Vintage Behind-the-Scenes Photos of Indiana Jones That Define Old-School Cool, or take a look at these 20 Images of Clint Eastwood on Set That Capture His Brand of Cool. Or if you’re looking to see the cynical side of movies, check out these 19 Wildly Unrealistic Things Portrayed In Movies.
