The 54-Year-Old Masterpiece Spielberg Called The “Greatest American Film Ever Made” Is A Must-Watch On Streaming

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When Steven Spielberg recommends a movie, people take notice. As one of the leading directors of the New Hollywood era in the 1970s, he’s a hugely influential figure. His early films were groundbreaking and changed American cinema, especially when it came to creating blockbuster hits.

Steven Spielberg’s films are known for their captivating sense of wonder. He brings a playful, magical quality to everything he directs, regardless of the story. Interestingly, while many consider his own movies to be among the best American films ever made, Spielberg himself has chosen another film as his personal favorite.

The Movie Steven Spielberg Called The “Greatest American Film Ever Made”

At the AFI Lifetime Achievement Award ceremony celebrating Francis Ford Coppola, Steven Spielberg praised his friend and fellow director. He highlighted Coppola’s bravery and unique vision, and specifically celebrated his most iconic films. Spielberg famously declared The Godfather to be “the greatest American film ever made.”

As a movie fan, I always say The Godfather – the one that won all the Oscars in ’72 – really launched Francis Ford Coppola’s career and totally reinvented the gangster genre. It’s based on Mario Puzo’s fantastic novel, and it’s just a sprawling story about crime families and the bonds between them. What I love most is how it blends the classic, glamorous feel of old Hollywood with the gritty, realistic style of the American New Wave films – it’s a perfect combination.

Many people, including Spielberg, consider The Godfather to be one of the greatest films ever made. It’s a brilliant example of how to make a movie, with Coppola showing incredible attention to detail and a remarkable talent for epic storytelling.

Beyond the compelling story, the performances by Al Pacino and Marlon Brando are truly masterful examples of screen acting. Pacino plays Michael as a hesitant hero forced into a life of crime and violence. He desperately wants to leave that world behind, but feels bound by family loyalty. Ultimately, The Godfather is a timeless and grand cinematic achievement.

Where To Watch The Godfather On Streaming

Even after 54 years, The Godfather remains incredibly popular, and streaming services have introduced it to a new generation of viewers. It consistently performs well on these platforms, and is currently available on Paramount+ for anyone with a subscription.

If you’re interested in watching more of The Godfather series, The Godfather Part II is available on Paramount+. However, The Godfather Part III isn’t currently on Paramount+ and can only be streamed on Fubo. Those who’ve seen The Godfather generally agree with director Steven Spielberg’s high opinion of it, and few films can compare to its quality.

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2026-02-13 01:00