Here's an offer you can’t refuse: The Godfather is returning to theaters to celebrate its 50th anniversary on Feb. 25, following a "painstaking restoration" overseen by Francis Ford Coppola himself. On Thursday, Paramount released a new trailer for the classic to accompany this particularly special event.
"It's also gratifying to celebrate this milestone with Paramount alongside the wonderful fans who've loved it for decades, younger generations who still find it relevant today, and those who will discover it for the first time," Coppola says.
Originally released on March 24, 1972, The Godfather went on to win three Academy Awards and was nominated for eight others.The magnum opus won Oscars for Best Adapted Screenplay (Coppola and author Mario Puzo), Best Actor in a Leading Role (Marlon Brando), and Best Picture. The beloved masterpiece also stars Al Pacino, James Caan, Robert Duvall and Diane Keaton.
Now, the film has undergone thousands of hours of additional work over the past three years. Paramount Pictures and American Zoetrope, Coppola’s production company, worked tirelessly, scrutinizing the best resolution of every frame, repairing damage, and creating "the most pristine presentation while remaining true to the original look and feel of the films."
"I am very proud of The Godfather, which certainly defined the first third of my creative life," Coppola declared.
The Godfather will make its welcome return to theaters beginning Feb. 25, exclusively in Dolby Cinema at AMC theaters in the U.S. The complete trilogy, meticulously restored, will be available on 4K Ultra HD on March 22.