The “Kiss of Death” in “The Godfather: Part II,” directed by Francis Ford Coppola and based on the novel “The Godfather” by Mario Puzo. Here from left: John Cazale (back to camera) as Fredo Corleone and Al Pacino as Don Michael Corleone.

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Photo by CBS via Getty Images

The “Kiss of Death” in “The Godfather: Part II,” directed by Francis Ford Coppola and based on the novel “The Godfather” by Mario Puzo. Here from left: John Cazale (back to camera) as Fredo Corleone and Al Pacino as Don Michael Corleone.

Photo by CBS via Getty Images

Given that it seems like Hollywood only produces sequels, you’d think the industry would have perfected the genre by now.

Some sequels are damn good, but many believe the perfect movie sequel came out 50 years ago this month.

We’re talking, of course, about Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather: Part II. Not only is it considered the best sequel of all time, but also one of the best films of all time.

So why? Godfather II Work, and where so many other sequels fail?

NPR producer Marc Rivers weighs in.

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This episode was produced by Brianna Scott and Marc Rivers. It was edited by Courtney Dorning. Our executive producer is Sami Yenigun.