The American Dream was a reoccurring motif in the first Godfather film. It is repeatedly introduced by Francis Ford Coppola as the plot progresses. Also, directed by Francis Ford Coppola, the second part in this trilogy is a continuum of the portrayal of the American Dream. The same initial message is portrayed, however, it is accentuated and a different point of view is added.
As Vito Corleone is approaching Ellis Island, he sees the statue of liberty. As a symbol of justice and freedom, the relief is evident as he approaches this great land where the American Dream courses like blood throughout the intertwining roads of this country. Once again, this denotation of the American Dream is seen as it is reflected onto the glass of the room in which Vito has been quarantines. So close, just on the other side of the glass. However, it remains an attainable goal as he is locked in the featureless room.
The American Dream is once again bluntly approached during this film, this time with a different point of view. Almost immediately, Vito discovers the corrupt motives within the American Government that is meant to be emphasizing the possibilities of the American Dream within the average citizen.Perhaps it is not only this particular mafia family that has a corrupt outlook on the American Dream but the entire body of this country as well. As Francis Ford Coppola stated, the injustice that the Corleone family initiates in may just be a shadow of what the entire country is. The American Dream is only a publicized outlook that eclipses the true intentions of the American Government.
