Why did he have Fredo killed? The question assumes that Michael is some kind
of hero. While it's true that he is the protagonist of the film, I think you
have misplaced your sympathies. Michael is a sensitive man who is corrupted
by his misplaced loyalty to his "family". The tragedy of "The Godfather" is
the descent of a recognizable human being into an immoral monster, capable of
and indeed willing to have his brother murdered. In a world where murder for
revenge is an acceptable answer for anything, we are all lost.
It is that terrifiying message that makes the film such a great and powerful
experience, not simply a good guy vs. bad guy melodrama.
Gene Stavis
School of Visual Arts - NYC