Steven Spielberg’s Pick for the Greatest American Movie Might Surprise You

Legendary filmmaker Steven Spielberg honoured longtime friend and cinematic icon Francis Ford Coppola at the American Film Institute’s Life Achievement Award ceremony at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. Spielberg paid his respect to ‘The Godfather’, describing it as the best American film ever made.

 Some of Hollywood’s most prominent figures attended the ceremony, including George Lucas, the creator of ‘Star Wars’, who presented the coveted prize alongside Spielberg.  The three directors have been close for decades, having first appeared in the 1970s.

In his homage, Spielberg emphasised Coppola’s dual legacy as a visionary artist who was not hesitant to accept new ideas and influences and as a fervent supporter of independent filmmakers.  He acknowledged Coppola as someone who always inspires other artists while pushing boundaries in his own work and commended him for his open-mindedness and creative bravery.

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 In his own words, Spielberg characterised ‘The Godfather’ as the height of American cinema.  He clarified that although many artists receive recognition for their specific works of art, Coppola’s love is rooted in something more profound: his influence on the whole film business and the generations of storytellers who came after him.

In a personal statement, Spielberg stated that as people advance in their careers, they look to their families, friends, and peers for approval; nevertheless, Coppola’s influence goes beyond all of those groups.  As someone who has redefined the fundamental core of American film and established a standard that others aim to reach, Spielberg views himself as a peer without equal.

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‘The Godfather’ stars Robert De Niro and Al Pacino also attended the celebration. De Niro remarked on the significant impact Coppola had on his career, saying the filmmaker “changed my life.”

In addition to honouring Coppola’s legacy, the evening served as a reminder of ‘The Godfather’s lasting impact and the filmmakers who revolutionised Hollywood.  The original puppet from Spielberg’s beloved 1982 film ‘E.T.’ was recently put up for auction, with estimations as high as $900,000 (£674,392), putting him back in the spotlight.

–Farheen Ali