If possible, this is an even more satisfying film than its much-lauded predecessor, and the first sequel ever to win a Best Film Oscar - the same as the original film.

Al Pacino is in commanding form as the head of the Corleone Mafia family, following the death of his father (Marlon Brando).

But he is given a run for his money, in an at first confusing sub-plot, by Robert De Niro, who plays Brando's character as a young man, revealing his entry into crime from his arrival in America as a penniless immigrant.

There is death and bloodshed by the bucketful, directed with an unmistakable flourish by Francis Ford Coppola, who, in all three Godfather films, juxtaposes the most stunning execution scenes with the calm and serenity of church ceremonies, such as weddings, christenings and confirmations.

The acting is flawless, particularly from De Niro, who even beat his acting teacher, Lee Strasberg, to an Oscar; and it's impossible not to be swept along by the exhilarating twists and turns of the plot.