The Powerful Transformation of Marlon Brando in 'The Godfather': Behind-the-Scenes Secrets
Marlon Brando's portrayal of Vito Corleone in The Godfather remains one of the most iconic and transformative roles in cinematic history. But how did the legendary actor achieve such a dramatic transformation to play a character decades older than him at 47?
When Marlon Brando was cast in the role, he was considered a liability by the studio due to his reputation as a difficult actor to work with. Director Francis Ford Coppola, determined to secure Brando, insisted on a screen test to prove that he was capable of the role.
Brando's Preparation
Coppola provided an insightful account of the screen test:
We went to his house on Mulholland Drive and it was early he wasn't up. There's a rumble and the door opens and in walks this beautiful man with long blond hair in a Japanese robe. And he came out and looked at all this and figured out what was going on and he took his hair... he did it up himself in the back and he took shoe polish and he made it black and he put on a shirt.
This screen test not only showcased Brando's dedication but also his improvisational skills. To achieve the hoarse and bulldog-like appearance that was necessary for the role, Brando suggested using Kleenex to create the desired look.
The Prosthetic and Makeup Magic
Brando's dedication to the role extended beyond his appearance. The dental prosthetic he wore played a crucial role in transforming his look. The prosthetic gave Vito Corleone his signature jawline, a feature that became one of the most memorable aspects of the character.
Transforming an Actor's Image
The transformation was not limited to makeup and prosthetics. Brando underwent a thorough transformation, including hair dye and a new hairstyle. The use of brilliant aging makeup and hair color design helped to complete the character's appearance, making the audience believe he was playing someone much older.
The Solid Performance
The studio was so impressed by Brando's screen test that they agreed to cast him, provided he accepted a lower salary and agreed to a bond to ensure he would not cause delays in production. The financial details of the deal are impressive, with Brando earning a reported $1.6 million, which equates to approximately $10.6 million in today's money.
Conclusion
The success of Marlon Brando's portrayal in The Godfather is a testament to his dedication and the power of makeup and prosthetics in transforming an actor's image. This transformation allowed him to embody the character of Vito Corleone with authentic depth and realism.
Further Reading
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