Leave the Gun, Take the Cannoli: "Hollywood Swinging" Episode Summary

Release Date: March 5, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts
Guests: Mark Seal, Nathan King, Al Ruddy, Mario Puzo, Janet Snow, Robert Evans, Talia Shire, James Caan, and more.

1. Introduction

In the episode titled "Hollywood Swinging," hosts Mark Seal and Nathan King delve deep into the tumultuous journey of creating one of Hollywood's greatest masterpieces, "The Godfather." Drawing from Mark Seal's 2021 book Leave the Gun, Take the Cannoli, the episode unpacks the myriad challenges, personal anecdotes, and pivotal moments that shaped the making of the iconic film.

2. The Genesis of an Idea

The story begins in [02:01] Spring 1964, when author Mario Puzo finds himself at the Plaza Hotel with a copy of his bestselling novel, contemplating its adaptation into a screenplay. Initially hesitant and skeptical about Hollywood's interest, Puzo's encounter with producer Al Ruddy serves as the catalyst that propels him into the film industry.

Quote:
“You have my word of honor, I'll never look at that book again.” – Mario Puzo ([02:01])

3. Al Ruddy: The Unlikely Producer

Al Ruddy, a Canadian immigrant with a rugged past, emerges as the linchpin in bringing "The Godfather" to life. His unconventional path—from supervising construction in New Jersey to supervising Hollywood projects—highlights his innate ability to navigate and manage complex productions.

Key Points:

• Ruddy's early life and immigration story [04:52]
• His tenure at the Rand Corporation and subsequent move to Hollywood [05:28]
• The formation of his production style, focusing on budget-friendly filmmaking [16:56]

Quote:
“I just want to grow up to be you one day in mud boots 20 years from now, walking down another street in New Jersey.” – Al Ruddy ([06:12])

4. The Formation of "Hogan's Heroes"

Before tackling "The Godfather," Ruddy's collaboration with actor Bernie Fine leads to the creation of the beloved TV series "Hogan's Heroes." This venture showcases Ruddy's knack for improvisation and ingenuity, traits that would later prove invaluable during the Godfather's production.

Notable Event:
The improvisational pitch meeting with William S. Paley at CBS, where Ruddy's impromptu performance wins over the network executive [11:20].

Quote:
“I may not be in this office all the time, 24 hours a day, but when something urgent comes through for me, cover for me.” – Al Ruddy ([06:45])

5. Mario Puzo's Hollywood Adventures

Upon moving to Los Angeles, Mario Puzo navigates the glamorous yet daunting landscape of Hollywood. Accompanied by his assistant Janet Snow, Puzo immerses himself in the social fabric of the industry, attending high-profile gatherings and even encountering legends like Orson Welles.

Key Moments:

• Puzo's first impressions of Hollywood and his routine at the Beverly Hills Hotel [22:07]
• His budding relationship with Janet Snow, who becomes his confidante and aide [23:01]
• The infamous dinner at Chasens, where Puzo confronts Frank Sinatra over the portrayal of Johnny Fontaine [42:22]

Quote:
“I don't know what the heck I'm supposed to be doing in here.” – Mario Puzo ([28:15])

6. The Chasens Incident: Puzo vs. Sinatra

One of the most gripping anecdotes detailed in this episode is Mario Puzo's confrontation with Frank Sinatra at Chasens. The depiction of the character Johnny Fontaine in "The Godfather" irked Sinatra, leading to a heated exchange that underscored the tensions between creative expression and real-life personas.

Detailed Account:

• [42:22] Janet Snow recounts the evening when Puzo approaches Sinatra, leading to an altercation.
• Puzo's realization of the difference between his literary creations and Hollywood's larger-than-life figures [44:24]

Quote:
“I didn't want to talk anymore... You met the best one saw in the movie this week.” – Al Ruddy ([19:01])

7. Bringing Francis Ford Coppola into the Fold

With the screenplay taking shape, Paramount searches for a director who can authentically portray the Italian American ethos central to "The Godfather." Their quest leads them to Francis Ford Coppola, whose visionary approach ultimately cements the film's legendary status.

Highlights:

• The realization that previous gangster films lacked genuine Italian American representation [46:52]
• Coppola's selection as the director to infuse authenticity and depth into the narrative [46:52]

Quote:
“I want to create a movie that is so authentically Italian American that you can smell the spaghetti.” – Robert Evans ([46:52])

8. The Dynamics Between Puzo, Ruddy, and Janet Snow

The collaborative synergy between Mario Puzo, Al Ruddy, and Janet Snow emerges as a cornerstone in the film's development. Their combined talents and willingness to adapt and overcome obstacles ensure the screenplay's progression despite numerous challenges.

Key Interactions:

• Puzo and Janet's initial struggles with screenwriting and assistance [28:27]
• Ruddy's strategic guidance in refining the screenplay [30:36]
• The balancing act of maintaining creative integrity while navigating Hollywood's demands [39:03]

Quote:
“We're not in Kansas anymore.” – Reflecting Puzo's realization of Hollywood's complex dynamics ([46:16])

9. Overcoming Production Challenges

The episode sheds light on the external pressures that threatened the film's inception, including interference from studio executives and opposition from real-life mafia figures. These obstacles tested the resilience and determination of the core team, ultimately strengthening their commitment to the project.

Notable Challenges:

• Meddling studio executives seeking to alter the film's direction [General Discussion]
• Attempts by mafia members to derail the production through intimidation and sabotage [General Discussion]

Quote:
“He’s the guy to get things done.” – Referring to Al Ruddy's reputation ([04:30])

10. Conclusion: The Making of a Masterpiece

"Hollywood Swinging" culminates in highlighting the intricate tapestry of relationships, creative processes, and sheer perseverance that led to the birth of "The Godfather." Through exclusive interviews and archival insights, listeners gain an intimate understanding of what it took to transform a bestselling novel into a cinematic legend.

Final Thoughts:

• The enduring legacy of "The Godfather" as a testament to collaborative brilliance [Conclusion of Episode]
• Reflections on the transformative impact of the film on Hollywood and American cinema [Conclusion of Episode]

Quote:
“The Godfather Chronicles”—a journey behind the scenes that reveals the heart and soul of a modern masterpiece. – Mark Seal ([03:48])

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• “You have my word of honor, I'll never look at that book again.” – Mario Puzo ([02:01])
• “I just want to grow up to be you one day in mud boots 20 years from now, walking down another street in New Jersey.” – Al Ruddy ([06:12])
• “I may not be in this office all the time, 24 hours a day, but when something urgent comes through for me, cover for me.” – Al Ruddy ([06:45])
• “I don't know what the heck I'm supposed to be doing in here.” – Mario Puzo ([28:15])
• “We're not in Kansas anymore.” – Reflecting Puzo's realization ([46:16])
• “He's the guy to get things done.” – Referring to Al Ruddy's reputation ([04:30])
• “The Godfather Chronicles”—a journey behind the scenes that reveals the heart and soul of a modern masterpiece. – Mark Seal ([03:48])

Final Notes

"Hollywood Swinging" offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the making of "The Godfather," presenting listeners with a nuanced perspective that goes beyond the silver screen. By intertwining personal stories, behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and expert insights, the episode serves as an invaluable resource for both fans of the film and aficionados of Hollywood history.

For those interested in a deeper dive, Mark Seal's book "Leave the Gun, Take the Cannoli" provides an extensive account of these events, enriched with additional interviews and archival material.