10 Perfect Movie Endings That Sequels Ruined

5. The Godfather Part III Removes The Powerful Ambiguity Of Michael Corleone

At the end of the Godfather Part II it is impossible for viewers to make a clear reading on Michael Corleone. In these closing moments, Michael orders the murder of his own brother Fredo because of a betrayal, at the end shown alone in the dark contemplating his humanity. The film then cuts to an innocent family dinner which takes place just as the younger, idealistic Michael has returned home from war, and is a different person from the cold and calculating crime lord. It is a perfectly layered closing for a film that allows viewers to make their own conclusions about the nature of crime, family, and loyalty. However, in the Godfather Part III this ambiguity is stripped away. The viewer sees an older Michael who is sympathetic and tortured. It is an interesting to know that Michael is racked with guilt over Fredo, but it was much more powerful when the question was up in the air. The contrast between the psychopathy and optimism in that original ending left so many questions that were more powerful left unanswered. In attempting to give a further epilogue to the original ending, Part II's ending loses a considerable amount of punch.