A rule now eliminated was the reason why the iconic theme song from The Godfather could not compete for the golden statuette in 1973
Without a doubt, winning an Oscar Award is the coveted desire of those who actively live in the competitive film industry. Since 1929, filmmakers, screenwriters, editors and actors have dreamed of being awarded. Although being nominated is the result of a meticulous voting process that meets strict criteria, the decisions have not been without controversy, especially when it comes to revocations.
During 96 ceremonies held, only nine nominations have been revokedamong them is that of The Godfatherthe film that almost made Steven Spielberg leave his career as a director and one of the most important in the history of cinema.
Why was the Godfather score revoked?
The film adaptation of Mario Puzo's novel tops the list of the most influential productions of the seventh art. Part of this is because The Godfather It required the approval of the Italian mafia, becoming a significant achievement for the film industry.
The level of quality not only caused a general stir among the audience and captured the attention of specialized critics, it was also enough to earn eleven Oscar nominations. However, a rule stipulated in small letters took away the nomination from his unforgettable song Love Theme.
According to what we can see in the biography The Godfather: The Intimate by Francis Ford Coppola, the director took the choice of the soundtrack for his masterpiece very seriously. For this reason, the filmmaker sought support in the talent and experience of the classical master Nino Rota, who was the author of some of the masterful pieces in Federico Fellini's films.
Although the melodies created for The Godfather are completely original, the composer took advantage of certain aspects of the work done for the comedy Fortunella (1958). In this way, although the score brings a breath of fresh air to the bloody chaos around which the story revolves, It cost him dearly to borrow musical elements from other productions..
From perfection to error
Unquestionably, The Godfather It wouldn't be the same without its soundtrack. From start to finish, Nino Rota managed to shape a score capable of capturing and reflecting power, tension, violence, betrayal, loyalty and corruption, five aspects that distinguish the mafia lifestyle. While the instrumental piece The Godfather Waltzrepresents the authority of Don Vito Corleone, Love Theme appeals to feelings. Through a moving melody, she awakens emotions and invites us to know the inner struggle that Michael Corleone experiences.
However, the news of Nino Rota's Oscar nomination in the Best Original Score category was not well received. The score received harsh criticism due to the use of fragments of the composition made for Eduardo De Filippo's film.
At that time, the rules stipulated by the Hollywood Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences were clear: only 100% original scores could compete. In this way, Rota's nomination became considered ineligible.
A harsh disqualification
The revocation of the nomination was a shocking event not only for Rota and the production in general, it also generated a stir due to how strange this type of decision is. The soundtrack created by John Addison for the mystery thriller The Trace (1972) It filled the void left, but the statuette went to the film Footlights (1952) by Charlie Chaplin, which had participation thanks to the delay of its premiere in Los Angeles.
Although the setback could have overshadowed the celebration a little, The Godfather triumphed at the Oscars, taking three major awards, including Best Picture. In addition, the composer was able to redeem himself the following yearwhen he won recognition in the same category, this time for the second installment of Coppola's masterpiece.
It should be noted that the criteria of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences have changed since 2021. Currently, soundtracks with a minimum of 35% of the total music in the film are eligible..
In short, although it is impossible to say what may or may not have happened, there is no doubt that Nino Rota's iconic music reflects the essence that defines The Godfather. Thus, the revocation of the nomination will remain a real bad taste in the mouth in the baggage accumulated by the franchise, even when the first installment of the series managed to take home three Academy Awards.
You can follow Alpha Beta on Facebook, WhatsApp or Twitter (X) to stay up to date with the latest video game news.