His portrayal of Corleone was understated yet powerful, relying on subtle expressions, deliberate pauses, and a quiet but commanding presence. His performance set a new standard for method acting, influencing generations of actors. Brando’s performance in The Godfather won him the Academy Award for Best Actor, but he famously refused the Oscar in protest of Hollywood’s treatment of Native Americans, sending activist Sacheen Littlefeather to decline the award on his behalf. This moment remains one of the most controversial and talked-about incidents in Oscar history.
