MovieChat Forums > The Godfather (1972) Discussion > Tessio's Death

Tessio's Death

posted a year ago by wt1963 (6)
3 replies | jump to latest

In examining the final moments of Tessio, many seem to think his last minutes were more humane and respectful than the others as it is likely Michael ordered the death to be quick and painless out of respect to Tessio's long years of loyalty.

However, in a way isn't his death somewhat cruel? Imagine getting into a car and being driven, say 20 minutes to perhaps as much as an hour to some locale. During that time, you know your going to die. That is not a quick death. In fact, one could view it as mental torture...after all, isn't the worst part of death not the actual event, but the fear thereof?

[–] [deleted] 9 months ago

There is no terror in the bang, only in the anticipation of it. -Alfred Hitchcock

[–] strntz (10779) 9 months ago

Your point is a good one. If Michael wanted Tessio to have a painless quick death out of respect for his service and friendship to Vito, he would have had Willie Cicci put one behind his ear without Tessio knowing about it.

One of the best scenes in the movie is that split second when Tessio suddenly realizes that Michael *knew* he was trying to set Michael up for assassination.

If anything, it would Michael wanted Tessio to know that he outsmarted him before he died.

[–] majaplaya (922) 9 months ago

"One of the best scenes in the movie is that split second when Tessio suddenly realizes that Michael *knew* he was trying to set Michael up for assassination."

Yes! Brilliant acting from Abe Vigoda right there.