Understanding the Dynamics of Power in The Godfather: Unveiling the Influence of Moe Greene and the Backing of Hyman Roth

In the iconic The Godfather, Moe Greene, the legendary mobster, plays a pivotal role in the Corleone Family's casino venture. This scene in The Godfather: Part I creates a fascinating narrative that delves into the complex relationships, behind-the-scenes maneuvers, and the true power dynamics within the world of organized crime. Let us explore what would have happened if Moe Greene revealed that Don Barzini and Hyman Roth were backing his casino.

The Financiers Behind the Casino

The reality is that such a revelation would have had no impact on the Corleone Family's operations. The reason lies in the intricate web of alliances and financial ties that bind the Corleone and Molinari Families to the casino's enterprise. It was the Corleone Family that provided the funds for the hotel and casino's construction, while the Molinari Family financed the casino's gambling operations and ensured security. Tom Hagen, acting as the Corleone family's counsel and mediator, played a crucial role in arranging this deal.

Both the Corleone and Molinari Families were deeply embedded in the casino's operations. As a result, Moe Greene had no significant secrets from them regarding the casino's activities. Furthermore, neither Don Barzini nor Hyman Roth would have secretly involved themselves in this venture without risking the entire confederated council of Mafia bosses. Such an act would amount to declaring war, which could jeopardize their entire status in the organized crime world.

Imagining an Alternate Reality: The Impact of Hyman Roth's Involvement

If Moe Greene had indeed named Hyman Roth as the backer of the casino in that tense meeting, the impact would have been significant. Hyman Roth, a thematic counterpart to Meyer Lansky, had a longstanding relationship with the Corleone family. However, the suggestion that he was behind Greene's casino would have created a complex and potentially explosive situation.

The narrative of The Godfather: Part I ensures that audiences are unaware of Roth's character until the sequel. Thus, in this alternate scenario, viewers would be puzzled by Roth's sudden appearance in the first film. Additionally, Moe Greene's role as a lifelong friend to Roth would complicate his decision to reveal this information.

The principle of not betraying one’s friends holds strong in the world of organized crime. Moe Greene, as a trusted ally, would not risk his friendship and long-standing business ties with the influential figures of the Corleone and Molinari families by mentioning their agreement with Hyman Roth.

A Historic Perspective: The Real Mobsters Behind Moe Greene and Hyman Roth

Moe Greene and Hyman Roth bear a striking resemblance to the real-life mobsters, Meyer Lansky and Benjamin ‘Bugsy’ Siegel. These individuals were not only central figures in the criminal underworld but also had a close and enduring friendship. Meyer Lansky, known for his vast influence and strategic business acumen, later became an associate of the influential Sicilian crime families along the East Coast. Similarly, Ben Siegel, as the brain behind the Flamingo casino in Las Vegas, had a close partnership with Lansky.

The world of The Godfather mirrors this historical alliance between Lansky and Siegel. Hyman Roth, in the film, represents a long-standing association with the Corleone family, embodying the complex relationships that define the organized crime world. If Moe Greene were to threaten the Corleone family by naming Hyman Roth as a backer, it would not only jeopardize Roth’s business interests but also the fragile friendship between Greene and Roth.

Conclusion

As we conclude, it is clear that the dynamic depicted in The Godfather is rooted in the intricate web of alliances, business ties, and personal relationships that define the world of organized crime. Moe Greene and Hyman Roth, paralleling Meyer Lansky and Benjamin ‘Bugsy’ Siegel, highlight the complexities of friendship and loyalty in a world where interests and rivalries often intersect.

Would such a revelation change the course of events in the Godfather saga? As the audience, we are left to ponder the potential chaos such a revelation might have caused. However, the enduring themes and the true nature of power in The Godfather showcase the resilience of the Corleone family and their allies, who navigate these treacherous waters with unwavering resolve.