The 20 Best Quotes from 'The Godfather,' Ranked (2024)

The Godfather is considered one of the greatest movies ever made and is universally recognized as a monumental staple in cinema history. Directed by Francis Ford Coppola, The Godfather is based on Mario Puzo's best-selling novel by the same name and went on to win several Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay. While the film features unforgettable characters and phenomenal performances by the overall cast, it's also one of the most quoted movies of all time.

Without question, The Godfather is one of the most quotable gangster movies and has been referenced throughout countless movies and television shows, including The Sopranos and American Gangster. Some are more popular and memorable than others, but out of the dozens of incredible quotes and one-liners, these are the best quotes from The Godfather, ranked.

The Godfather

R

Drama

Crime

Release Date

March 24, 1972

Director

Francis Ford Coppola

Cast

Marlon Brando , Diane Keaton , James Caan , Al Pacino , Robert Duvall

Runtime

175 minutes

Watch on Paramount+

20 "I believe in America."

Amerigo Bonasera

As the film begins, the first thing audiences hear is the patriotic words of Amerigo Bonasera (Salvatore Corsitto) who, unlike Don Corleone, made an honest, law-abiding living and foolishly believed that he and his family would be treated just like anyone else in the country. Bonasera represents the hundreds of immigrants who came to the United States believing in justice and freedom, only to learn that both come at a certain price.

These first lines are incredibly powerful and symbolize the hope that Bonasera as well as many others who came to the United States searching for a better life. Unfortunately, as Bonasera continues, it becomes a bit disheartening that his genuine hope for his life in America and being an upstanding citizen didn't pay off when he and his family needed it the most.

19 "Oh, Paulie....won't see him no more."

Peter Clemenza

While Peter Clemenza (Richard S. Castellano) is cooking in the Corleone kitchen, Sonny (James Caan) comes in and asks him how Paulie is feeling, to which Clemenza casually replies in a way that basically says the guy is six feet under. At this point, audiences know the fate of Paulie and also that Sonny is the one who gave the order, but Clemenza's quick-witted response is a bit humorous.

The way Clemenza delivers this line is a fine example of the film's dark humor and his nonchalant tone is the icing on the entire moment. Instead of bringing the mood down or making it into a drawn out conversation, Clemenza resorts to laying it out short, sweet, and to a point he knows his Godson will easily understand. Mobsters are known to speak in code, which is universally understood by everyone in the family, but Clemenza's way is both cryptic and pretty funny.

18 "You talk about vengeance. Is vengeance going to bring your son back to you? Or my boy to me?"

Don Vito Corleone

After the brutal death of his oldest son, Sonny, Don Corleone (Marlon Brando) requests a meeting with all the families to end this war and senseless bloodshed. As they meet and discuss terms of agreement, Philip Tattaglia (Victor Rendina) expresses his concerns about Don Corleone and anyone else in his family coming after him and his family for revenge against killing Sonny. While Tattaglia has reason to be concerned, Don Corleone's response is one of depth and humility.

Out of all the heads of families, Don Corleone is without question the wisest and most sensible one in the room. As much as he is grieving the loss of his son, he refuses to be the cause of anyone having to go through such a loss and accurately points out that no amount of violence, revenge, and blood can ever bring their loved ones back. This specific quote speaks to Don Corleone's empathy and genuine compassion, which are just a few qualities of the character that make him not only an effective leader, but also one that is trusted and respected by many.

17 "My father is no different than any other powerful man, any man with power, like a president or senator."

Michael Corleone

When Michael (Al Pacino's iconic character) finally returns from Sicily, he goes to see Kay (Diane Keaton), who is shocked to see him standing in front of her. As they walk together, Michael talks more about his father and the family business, trying to convince Kay that his father is no different than anyone else who holds a position of power. Kay reveals her sheltered perspective on the world when she points out that other men in power don't have people killed, which couldn't be further from the truth.

Michael makes a thought-provoking point in his comparison between his father and others in legitimate positions of power, the only difference being their images in general society. A President or politician is generally viewed as one who upholds and protects people, whereas Don Corleone is viewed as a mob boss who has no heart and kills people for his personal gain. The quote is also one of the best as it shows how both Michael and Kay grew up in very different worlds, and ultimately foreshadows the unfortunate fate of their marriage.

16 "Women and children can afford to be careless, but not men."

Don Vito Corleone

While sitting outside in the garden, Don Corleone and Michael continue to discuss and strategize their next moves and Emilio Barzini (Richard Conte). Don Corleone apologizes for going over everything numerous times with his son, calculating every detail and ensuring he has all his bases covered. He explains how he has strived all his life not to be careless, knowing one minor slip up could have detrimental consequences.

This particular quote speaks to Don Corleone's belief that if he or any man messes up, it could cost them or someone else their life, whereas if a woman or child makes a mistake, the consequences are much less dire. It also demonstrates how Vito believes men always have to look over their shoulder, while women and children have a much more carefree, relaxed existence, which is true in his world. This is one quote that stands out for showing a bit more depth into the character of Don Corleone as well as his mindset, ranking as one of the best in the entire film.

15 "Look how they massacred my boy."

Don Vito Corleone

After Vito's oldest son, Sonny, is gunned down, his body is transported to the funeral home owned by Amerigo Bonesera (Salvatore Corsitto). When Vito arrives, he asks Bonesera if he is ready to return the favor he agreed to on the day of Connie's wedding. While Bonesera thinks the don is going to ask the worst of him, Vito simply asks him to do everything he is capable of to make his son look like he used to after being shot multiple times.

Vito is known to keep his emotions to himself as a defense mechanism, but in the scene with his son, it's impossible for him not to choke up after seeing the brutality his child endured. In Italian and Sicilian culture, it's tradition to have an open casket and for the assailants to have done such damage to Sonny is another insult in itself. The scene and quote serve as proof that even though Vito doesn't openly share his feelings, he isn't without a heart that hurts and aches like any other human. It's one thing to lose a child, but to have them killed in such a manner is devastating to any parent, no matter how strong they present themselves to the world.

14 "Do you know who I am? I'm Moe Greene! I made my bones when you were going out with cheerleaders!"

Moe Greene

When Michael arrives in Las Vegas, he meets with Jewish mobster and former Murder Inc. executioner, Moe Greene (Alex Rocco), who is credited with building Sin City. Despite Greene's immense contributions and extensive history, he's losing money and Michael doesn't offer but instead tells him that the Corleone family is going to buy him out, which doesn't go over well. As Michael calmly continues to tell Greene that he has no choice in the matter, Greene lets his temper get the best of him.

Greene doesn't have a huge part in the film, but in the scene with Michael in Las Vegas, he gives a memorable appearance as well as one of the film's most iconic quotes. Even though Greene has a point and Michael hasn't been around as long as he has, that doesn't matter when it comes to business. Greene is based on the notorious gangster, Bugsy Siegel, who was known to have an inflated ego and a hot head that eventually landed him in hot water. Rocco perfectly taps into Siegel's personality with not only the scene but also this line, which lands hard with a bit of humorous afterthought.

13 "Mr. Corleone is Johnny Fontanes's godfather. Now Italians regard that as a very close, a very sacred religious relationship."

Tom Hagen

After Connie's wedding, Vito sends Tom Hagen to Los Angeles, where he meets with Hollywood producer, Jack Woltz (John Marley), who initially brushes the young consigliere off. Once he asks around about him, he quickly changes his tune and reconsiders seeing Hagen. Initially, Woltz thinks Vito is just trying to do Fontane a favor, but Hagen makes it very clear that the Don's connection to Johnny Fontane is as sacred as the bond between families.

While the term "godfather" is a title of respect given to Vito by his peers, his favor for his godson shows the extensive lengths he is willing and capable of going to, especially for his family. Anyone who is asked to be a godparent of a child always feels a certain sense of responsibility for them and considering how Vito responds to Woltz's answer, it's safe to say that Vito takes being Fontane's godfather as seriously as Hagen says, maybe even more, making this a crucial quote.

12 "Only don't tell me you're innocent because it insults my intelligence and makes me very angry."

Michael Corleone

In the final moments of The Godfather, Michael tells Carlo (Gianni Russo) that they have to hang back and they return to the house. While Carlo is anxiously dialing the phone, Michael blindsides him by bluntly accusing him of being responsible for the murder of Sonny. After Michael coaxes Carlo into admitting that Barzini approached him, he doesn't give a reaction like most people would expect. Despite his words, Michael's lack of any facial expression or emotion is also a tell of what is to come next for Carlo.

Michael's remark to Carlo is a friendly threat that causes more fear in his brother-in-law than any physical action could have at that moment. This is easily one of the best final quotes in the film that represents how cold and calculated Michael has officially become. While most would want to inflict pain on anyone who hurt their family, Michael goes the extra mile, gaining his satisfaction by watching Carlo walk out the door like he's dodged a bullet, only to be met by Clemenza.

11 "That's my family, Kay, that's not me."

Michael Corleone

At Connie's wedding, Kay (Diane Keaton) is surprised to see Johnny Fontane (Al Martino) arrive and asks Michael how he knows him. Michael tells her his father is Fontane's godfather and even helped him out once with Luca Brasi (Lenny Montana). After insisting that he give details, Michael indulges her by telling her the shocking way Vito and Luca helped Fontane out of his contract with a band leader.

This quote is by far one of the best in the film because it not only establishes Michael's opinion of his family, but also serves as a bit of ironic foreshadowing as well. It's not that he doesn't love his family, he just doesn't mind not being involved in their business and wants to make it clear to Kay that he isn't like them. In a twist of irony, Michael ends up becoming exactly what he initially never sought to be in life, deeming this to be an essential quote from The Godfather.

10 "A man who doesn't spend time with his family can never be a real man."

Don Vito Corleone

During Connie's wedding, Vito meets with his godson and famous singer, Johnny Fontane, who needs his godfather's help in getting him a part in a movie that could put him back on top. After listening to Fontane's dilemma and shouting at him for breaking down into tears, his oldest son, Sonny, enters the room and as he asks Fontane if he's been spending time with his family, he gives a quick glance at Sonny, who isn't exactly the upstanding family man.

Vito's line about what defines a "real man" speaks volumes about his own personal morals and values, as well as its reference to Sonny, which makes it one of the best quotes in the gangster film. While the question is directed at Fontane, it is a jab at Sonny, who has been fooling around with his mistress (and Connie's maid of honor) at his sister's wedding. Although he loves his son, he is ashamed of Sonny's extra-marital affair and ignoring his duty as a husband and a father, making his point clear without addressing the issue directly.

9 "I don't like violence, Tom. I'm a businessman; blood is a big expense."

Virgil "The Turk" Sollozzo

When Vito survives being shot several times, Virgil "The Turk" Sollozzo (Al Lettieri) has his men pick up Tom Hagen (Robert Duvall) in hopes that he can cool Sonny down and try to bring peace between the Five Families. He tries to sway Hagen's opinion of him by revealing his true intentions of trying to figure out a solution instead of resorting to violence while also threatening him in the same breath.

Sollozzo's line is one of the best lines in The Godfather as it reveals the character's diplomatic side, but also, at the same time, serves as a warning that he's prepared to come after Vito and the Corleone family again if it comes to that. He isn't someone who wants to resort to violence because of what it would cost him, but if all else fails, he's willing to use it if it's a means to an end.

8 "In Sicily, women are more dangerous than shotguns."

Calo

After Sollozzo and Captain McClusky are killed, the movie shifts to Italy as Michael is sent to Sicily for his own safety and hides out there until the dust settles, and it's safe for him to return. While Michael still thinks about Kay who has relentlessly tried to contact him, fate steps in when he meets a beautiful Sicilian woman, Apollonia (Simonetta Stefanelli) and it appears they both have been struck by Cupid's arrow. As Michael can't take his eyes off her, his friend, Calo (Franco Citti), gives him some words of advice.

Calo's quote about Sicilian women is an enduring warning to Michael about their father's and husband's fierce loyalty and protectiveness over them, making them seemingly untouchable by Michael or anyone else. Michael understands this and doesn't approach Apollonia but instead, speaks to her father about meeting her under the supervision of her family, revealing Michael's upstanding honor and respect.

7 "Mr. Corleone never asks a second favor once he's refused the first. Understood?"

Tom Hagen

After Connie's wedding, Vito sends Tom Hagen to California to meet with director, Jack Woltz, who is directing the movie Fontane wants a part in. Hagen's initial meeting with Woltz doesn't go over too well, but when Woltz finds out who Fontane's godfather is, he quickly changes his tune and invites Hagen over for dinner. Woltz refuses to give Fontane a part in his upcoming movie but says he's willing to do any other favor for Don Corleone.

Hagen is typically a calm, cool, and collected guy, but when Woltz offers to do something else for Vito, Hagen snaps back, reminding Woltz of who he's refusing with one of the best quotes in The Godfather. His line is also a subtle warning to Woltz that once he's made his decision, there's no going back with Vito and if he asked a second favor, it would give Vito the reputation of being a pushover.

6 "I want somebody good - and I mean very good - to plant that gun. I don't want my brother coming out with just his d**k in his hand."

Santino "Sonny" Corleone

While Vito is recovering in the hospital, Michael discovers that Sollozzo is still trying to kill him and sits down with Sonny and the others to try and figure out a plan. They decide that Michael will agree to meet with Sollozzo and Captain McClusky and kill them with an ingenious plan of planting a gun in the restaurant bathroom before they arrive. As they sort out the details, Sonny realizes the potential danger his younger brother could be stepping into if anything goes wrong.

Sonny's line is both comical and memorable, as it speaks to Sonny's genuine concern about his brother without appearing weak or emotional. He knows Michael can handle the job, but only if everything goes according to plan, and whoever plants the gun has to know exactly what they're doing to ensure nothing goes wrong.

5 "Never tell anyone outside the family what you're thinking again."

Don Vito Corleone

When Sollozzo meets with Vito and the Corleone family, he isn't pleased when Vito passes on his offer and as Sollozzo tries to reason with him, Vito begins to respond, but is abruptly interrupted by Sonny. As Vito puts his hand out, Sonny understands what his father is saying and shuts up. After the meeting, Vito scolds his son about his outburst with one of the best lines in The Godfather.

Vito is one of the greatest gangster characters by playing his cards close to his chest and only says what needs to be said. Sonny has a reputation for being impulsive and, while his intentions may have been good, his father makes a valid point to him about refraining from revealing his personal plans or information to his opponent, which, unfortunately, is one major quality of Sonny's that leads to his downfall.

4 "Don't ever take sides with anyone against the family again. Ever."

Michael Corleone

Now acting boss, Michael Corleone travels to Las Vegas to meet with fellow mobster, Moe Greene (Alex Rocco), who essentially built Sin City and allowed Michael's older brother, Fredo (John Cazale), to join his operation. While Michael is greeted by his cheery brother and a joking Greene, the tone of the room sours as Michael offers to buy Greene out. During their argument, Fredo pipes in defending Greene, which doesn't change his brother's mind but only angers him.

After Greene storms out, Michael coldly turns to his older brother and gives him a warning that ultimately foreshadows Fredo's biggest mistake in The Godfather: Part II, making it one of the best quotes in the film. Vito had always instilled the importance of the family being united and Michael reminded his brother of this critical lesson. The family needs to present themselves as a unified force, because if you give in to petty arguments and bickering, you could lose the upper hand.

3 "It's not personal, it's strictly business."

Michael Corleone

After Vito is gunned down in the streets and miraculously survives, Sollozzo asks to meet with Michael to propose a potential deal, which Sonny immediately shoots down. While Sonny is more than willing to go to war, Tom thinks they should hear Sollozzo's offer, pointing out that this is a matter of business, not personal. As the two brothers get into a heated argument, Michael agrees to the meeting, supporting Tom's point as well as Sonny's, and decides to kill Sollozzo and McClusky.

Tom is right that the hit was driven by business matters, but Sonny is also partially right, as Sollozzo went after their father and patriarch of the family and ignited this conflict. Michael's response to Sonny echoes Tom's initial statement and is considered to be one of the absolute best lines in the movie that remains relevant throughout Michael's journey. Michael supports Sonny's decision to kill Sollozzo, not because of the hit, but because it would ensure the safety of their business as well as their family.

2 "Leave the gun, take the cannoli."

Peter Clemenza

Once the family figures out it was Paulie who went against the family, Sonny tells Peter Clemenza to take care of it sooner rather than later. When Paulie and Rocco pick up Clemenza in the morning, Clemenza's wife reminds him not to forget the cannoli which he picks up when the three of them go to check out a place on the West Side. On the drive back, Clemenza tells Paulie to pull over and gets out of the car to relieve himself. While outside in front of the silent cornfield, Rocco shoots Paulie and as Clemenza returns to the car, he delivers one of the greatest lines in movie history.

"Leave the gun, take the cannoli," is hands down one of the best and most memorable lines of The Godfather that has been referenced in movies and shows for decades. The line essentially tells Rocco to leave everything, including the gun as well as the car and the horrific scene, but to take the cannoli, which his wife would be expecting. Clemenza is wise, as he would much rather run into problems with the police than have trouble with his wife.

1 "I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse."

Don Vito Corleone

During Connie's wedding, Michael tells a story about his father helping Fontane get out of his contract and explains that he made the band leader an offer he couldn't refuse. He explains that the offer was a gun to the head and two options; either release Fontane from the contract or be shot. Later, after Vito agrees to help Fontane get the part in the movie, he tells his godson not to worry as he will make him an offer he can't refuse, foreshadowing a potential similar encounter with Fontane's band leader.

There's no question that Vito's iconic line, "I'm going to make him an offer he can't refuse," is the best quote from The Godfather. In 2005, the American Film Institute ranked the famous line as the second-best movie quote of all time, and it is considered by many movie fans to be an epic one-liner. Aside from being one of the most famous movie quotes, the line serves as a subtle warning, revealing to audiences exactly how powerful the Corleone family is and that no one has ever refused an offer from them and lived to tell the tale.

NEXT: The Best Quotes from 'The Godfather: Part II,' Ranked