There are certain movies that should be preserved for future generations, no matter the cost, and I would think that most people agree that Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather and The Godfather Part II belong right at the top of that list (just ask The Online Film Community!). Strangely, it seems that the folks over at Paramount didn’t concur — at least not until a certain Hollywood figurehead changed their mind. Upon learning that the negatives for both of these films had not been properly cared for and were in the process of deteriorating, Francis Ford Coppola wanted to spearhead a restoration project to ensure the Godfather flicks would live on. Paramount was reluctant to foot such an expensive bill, however, so Coppola’s buddy Steven Spielberg needed to step in and give them a stern talking-to (it’s unclear whether or not he lent a hand financially as well). Film preservationist Robert A. Harris was promptly brought in to start the photo-chemical restoration, which is now reportedly almost finished.

While nothing official has been announced, it would only make sense that Paramount should re-issue the newly restored versions of the films on DVD, HD-DVD and (hopefully) in a limited theatrical run. A DVD release date of December 6th was recently spotted for the new versions on a Dutch DVD site, so is it possible we may see them in stores before the end of the year? One can only hope. Personally I’ll take any excuse for studios to re-release older movies in theatres, especially ones that I never would have had a chance to see myself during their original theatrical run. If the restored versions of the movies really look “incredible” as Francis Ford Coppola himself has said, then it will be well worth the price of admission. At any rate, we’ll be sure keep our ears to the ground for more details on this very worthwhile project.