One of the most celebrated films in Hollywood history has finally arrived on a major UK streaming platform. The Godfather, Francis Ford Coppola's 1972 epic, is now available to watch for free on BBC iPlayer. This marks a significant moment for British film fans, offering a new, accessible way to view the iconic crime drama over five decades after its original cinematic release.
A Cinematic Landmark Finds a New Home
Based on Mario Puzo's bestselling 1969 novel, The Godfather was first released in 1972 and swiftly cemented its status as a cultural phenomenon. The film chronicles the powerful and violent saga of the fictional Corleone Mafia family, led by patriarch Vito Corleone, in 1940s New York. Its exploration of power, family, and the American dream, coupled with legendary performances, has ensured its enduring legacy.
The BBC describes the plot on iPlayer, noting it is an 'Oscar-winning adaptation' where 'Vito Corleone heads a major Mafia ‘family’... an enterprise his youngest son, Michael, hopes to escape.' The narrative masterfully depicts how Michael is 'gradually dragged back to the heart of the business' as violent rivalries emerge and his father ages.
Unparalleled Critical Acclaim and Legacy
The film's critical reception has been overwhelmingly positive for half a century. It holds an impressive 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics and audiences alike lauding its depth and craftsmanship. Reviewers have called it a 'revered New Hollywood masterpiece' and 'grand entertainment, but an emotional and intellectual experience to rival any in cinema.'
Fans have echoed this praise online, with comments ranging from 'Perfect movie from beginning to end' to declarations that it is 'an absolute masterpiece.' One viewer noted its lasting power, stating, 'Haven’t seen it in years so I watched it again recently. Still holds up as a genre-defining classic!' Another summed up its stature by calling it 'the most memorable, most influential, most quoted, most beloved... most revered American movie ever made.'
The Godfather Trilogy and Enduring Popularity
The original film's success spawned two sequels: The Godfather Part II in 1974 and The Godfather Part III in 1990. The saga, featuring a star-studded cast including Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, James Caan, Robert Duvall, and Diane Keaton, continues to influence popular culture. Its availability on BBC iPlayer introduces this cornerstone of cinema to a new generation of viewers and provides a convenient option for long-time admirers to revisit the classic.
With its arrival on the BBC's streaming service, 54 years after its debut, The Godfather's journey from box-office hit to timeless classic reaches another milestone. For UK audiences, the opportunity to stream this defining piece of film history free of charge is a notable event in the entertainment landscape.
