TOW #21: The Godfather DVD case

            The Godfather, based off of the novel by Mario Puzo and directed by Francis Ford Coppola, is arguably one of the greatest cinematic masterpieces ever created. The intriguing backdrop of New York City in the 1940’s and the brilliant acting performances of Al Pacino and Marlon Brando accent the classic and timeless tale of a struggle for power. Being that The Godfather is my favorite movie of all time, it is only natural that I should own the DVD and keep it sitting on the desk in my room at all times. Accordingly, when I was casting about for inspiration for my TOW post this week, I was suddenly stuck with the idea to rhetorically analyze the front cover of The Godfather’s DVD case. The most prominent of the images on the front of the movie case displays a large photograph of Don Vito Corleone, the Godfather and patriarch of the Corleone crime family. Superimposed in the bottom right corner of the cover is a faded image of the Don and his three sons: Sonny, Fredo, and Michael. Next to the Don’s head is the original Godfather logo that was also featured on the front cover of the novel. The DVD and its packaging were produced by Paramount Pictures, and based off of the ideas of story of Mario Puzo. This movie appeals predominantly to adults who will understand the mature themes and can connect to the ideals of the time period. The chief function that is served by the front cover of any DVD case is to provide a snapshot of the movie’s highlights that will entice consumers enough to buy the movie.

            Colors are used to great effect on The Godfather’s DVD case. The dominance of neutral colors (mostly black and white) creates a simple yet intriguing tone. Also, the absence of any color draws all of the viewers focus to the picture of Don Corleone, who looks formidable and intense. As is true with everything else about The Godfather, I like this case. The simplicity and absence of color on the front is definitely stark and interesting. If I were an objective consumer, this case would definitely spark my interest in the movie.