Looking at John Cazale’s resume it’s easy to see he had an amazing run, even if it was cut short by his premature death. He was only in five films, but all five are considered to be classics from the 70s. Not only that, but his work in all five films is fascinating and should’ve been worthy of winning awards. It’s a shame he didn’t get Oscar recognition for his stunning work in Godfather Part 2 or Dog Day Afternoon.
Note: Keep in mind I’m rating the performances in this installment. All five films are worthy of 5 stars imo.
The Godfather (1972) - ****
Well, what is there to say about The Godfather? Everyone has either seen or heard about these movies, so I’ll get right to John Cazale’s role in the film. His role isn’t very prominent in the first Godfather film, but he is still good. The movie focuses more on Marlon Brando and Al Pacino, but it sets up his character in the sequel.
The Conversation (1974) - ****
Like in the first Godfather, Cazale has little screen time in The Conversation. It’s an excellent movie but all the focus is on Gene Hackman’s character. What little time Cazale is on screen he’s great as usual.
The Godfather Part II (1974) - *****
Godfather Part II is the movie that really showed off Cazale’s talent. His character is the emotional center of the picture. Yes, Al Pacino is great as a crime lord who sells his soul in order to rise to the top, but Cazale is just as strong as the brother who is just trying to please his brother and get things back on track. It is a sad and moving performance that stays with you long after you’ve forgotten the rest of the film. I can’t believe he got ignored at the oscars in favor for lesser performances in the same film.
Dog Day Afternoon (1975) - *****
His work as Sal in Dog Day Afternoon is nearly as strong as his previous film. He played a dim-witted man who is drug into a bank robbery by his friend, played amazingly by Al Pacino. Once again, he adds some emotional weight to the film, as well as some much needed humor. It’s almost unfortunate that he always worked with heavyweight actors like Pacino, De Niro, and Hackman who always stole the show. Yet his subtle acting still stands out and his ability to choose strong roles and films is quite mind-boggling.
The Deer Hunter (1978) - *****
In John Cazale’s last film (he died of cancer shortly after filming was finished) he had a small role as a friend to De Niro and Christopher Walken’s characters who go off to fight in Vietnam. He doesn’t have a lot of screen time, but he still manages to stand out and steals a few scenes when his character blows up in anger. As usual, the film was recognized more for the other actors’ work while Cazale went unrecognized by the oscar voters.
