Saturday, January 14, 2012

The Color Orange


Throughout the dark scenes of 'The Godfather' there is not a large variety of color, however there seems to be an abundance of oranges in a variety of the scenes. Most cultures associate the color orange with emotions such as enthusiasm and energy. In 'The Godfather' it seems that this color, as well as the fruit, is associated with something slightly more morbid.

The first time this fruit is shown in the movie is at the wedding where Sal tosses an orange into the air. Later on, in the plot, he is suspected of betraying the family and is immediately killed. Also, in the dining scene between Tom Hagens and Woltz there is a basket of oranges on the dining table in which bad news is delivered. And later, still affected by the same basket of oranges, Woltz discovers his prized horse dead.

In one of the most significant scenes of this film oranges are used, as well. Don Corleone exits the car in front of a fruit vendor and purchases two oranges before he is fatally injured by numerous gunshots. To add to the clear symbolism in this scene, a basket of oranges tumbles to the ground as the Don collapses onto the street.

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