The Troubled Relationship Between Michael and Fredo: A Revisitation

In The Godfather, the bond between Michael and Fredo Corleone was once unbreakable. However, as Michael ascended to become the head of the Corleone Family, tensions between the brothers began to strain. One of the most pivotal moments in their relationship revolved around Michael's decision to send Fredo to Las Vegas for a crucial business venture. This choice now appears to have been ill-advised and ill-fated.

The Turning Point: Michael's Advancement and Fredo's Distress

When Michael took over as the head of the Corleone Family, he envisioned his brother Fredo as a potential successor. However, this vision was complicated by Fredo's unusual behavior and infidelity. Fredo's character in the film incarnates a shift in perspective, developing habits that went against the expectations and standards set by the Corleone Family.

Fredo's relationship with Moe Greene, a key Las Vegas figure, presented a significant challenge. Rather than viewing Greene as an ally or a friend, Fredo quickly developed an attitude that mirrored Greene's own enmity towards the Corleone Family. This insight suggested that Fredo's mind was influenced by the enemies of his family, and not by his own interests.

The Nevada Adventure: From Learning to Undue Burden

Fredo was sent to Las Vegas for a crucial task: learning the casino business. However, his tenure there was far from educational. Instead of mastering the intricacies of the casino business, he ended up in a more menial and embarrassing role. Fredo's efforts to adapt to the business were overshadowed by his personal choices and decisions, which led him to fall into a series of debts and disgraceful behaviors.

While in Las Vegas, Fredo's character took a dark turn. He developed a preference for approaching women in inappropriate and public ways. This behavior included encounters with cocktail waitresses and showgirls, often in highly visible and indiscreet circumstances. This not only caused a moral crisis but also left a stain on the family's reputation.

Medical Debacles and Public Image

Fredo's despicability was compounded by his medical issues. His public reputation was further tarnished by his frequent visits to a local doctor for treatment of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and to manage the after-effects of unprotected sex. This ongoing accountability was a direct reflection of his lack of discipline and his disregard for personal health and family honor.

In a more sophisticated and modern context, this behavior would be synonymous with corporate shelving or the failure to meet performance expectations. Fredo was essentially serving as a manager or a liaison for the Corleone Family interests in the casino business, but his methods were neither effective nor upholding the family's standards.

Resentment and Disappointment

Fredo's resentment towards his younger brother, Michael, was palpable. As Michael steered into his new role, Fredo felt ignored and undervalued, his skills and experiences disregarded. This sentiment of being stepped over contributed to a deeper breach in their relationship. While initially a source of support and respect, Fredo's actions in Las Vegas eventually led to a complete estrangement from the family.

Lessons from Michael and Fredo's Journey

The story of Michael and Fredo in The Godfather serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of family cohesion and mutual respect. The pivotal decision to send Fredo to Las Vegas not only revealed a mismatch in skills but also exposed the harsh realities of what can happen when personal choices conflict with family duty. The narrative underscores the need for close family members to align their personal and professional conduct with the values and goals of the family.

Final Reflections

The journey of Fredo and Michael in The Godfather exemplifies the complex nature of family dynamics and the significant risks that arise from missteps and poor alignment. As the legendarily influential characters navigated the treacherous world of the Corleone Family, their relationship serves as a cautionary tale for the importance of mutual support and respect within families, especially in high-stakes environments.