Celebrated filmmaker Luca Guadagnino has sparked a fresh wave of controversy with his bold opinions on Francis Ford Coppola's work. In a recent interview with Sight and Sound, Guadagnino lauded The Godfather Part III as not only a Christmas tradition but also the best installment in the iconic trilogy. Even more surprising, he described Coppola's widely maligned 1996 film Jack as a “masterpiece.”
Guadagnino on The Godfather Part III
While many fans rank The Godfather Part III below its legendary predecessors, Guadagnino sees it differently. He appreciates its “longing melancholy” and draws parallels to John Huston's The Dead. “Part II is too perfect, and The Godfather is too legendary,” he explained. Guadagnino admires the original 1990 cut, dismissing Coppola's recent re-edited version.
This perspective offers a fresh lens on a film often dismissed as a weaker chapter. Released in 1990, The Godfather Part III explores themes of aging, regret, and ambition but was criticized for its uneven pacing and Sofia Coppola's polarizing performance. However, Guadagnino's endorsement suggests the film deserves a second look.
Defending Jack
Even more striking is Guadagnino's claim that Jack—widely considered a nadir in Coppola's career—is a masterpiece. Starring Robin Williams as a child who ages rapidly due to a rare condition, the film was mocked for its sentimental tone and implausible premise. Critics and audiences alike panned Jack, with screenwriter Gary Nadeau recalling his horror at its reception, fearing it would ruin his career.
Guadagnino sees past the flaws, praising Coppola's ability to bring “humanity” to a conventional story. He likens Jack to other underappreciated gems, noting that great directors often invisibly master their craft even in divisive works. Coppola himself defended the film, calling it “sweet and amusing,” though he acknowledged the widespread disdain it received.
The Polarizing Legacy of Coppola's Late Career
Coppola's post-Godfather career has been a mix of highs and lows. Films like Peggy Sue Got Married and Jack were born out of financial necessity as Coppola worked to pay off debts from his ambitious ventures in the 1980s. While some critics view these projects as lacking the brilliance of his earlier works, Guadagnino's perspective challenges this narrative.
His advocacy for Jack and The Godfather Part III invites audiences to reconsider Coppola's late career with fresh eyes, acknowledging the emotional depth and craftsmanship often overshadowed by initial criticism.
Luca Guadagnino's passionate defense of Coppola's polarizing films has reignited debates about the director's legacy. While The Godfather Part III has found more advocates over time, Jack remains a tougher sell. Guadagnino's perspective, however, challenges audiences to find beauty and intention in even the most controversial works. As the discussion evolves, one thing is clear: Coppola's films continue to inspire strong reactions, decades after their release.
My Impressions: Luca Guadagnino's praise for Jack as a “masterpiece” is certainly bold, though I find it difficult to share his enthusiasm. The film's sentimental tone and missteps are hard to ignore, but I appreciate his attempt to highlight its humanity. On the other hand, his defense of The Godfather Part III resonates more. Coppola's exploration of aging and regret does add a poignant layer to the trilogy, even if it doesn't match the brilliance of the first two films.
Guadagnino's comments remind us that art is subjective, and even widely criticized works can have redeeming qualities. While I doubt Jack will see a widespread reappraisal, it's fascinating to hear a filmmaker of Guadagnino's stature offer such a unique perspective.
Do you agree with Luca Guadagnino's defense of Jack and The Godfather Part III? Can controversial films be reappraised as masterpieces over time?
