The incident happens during a fishing trip.
Fortunately, clues from elsewhere fill the gaps.
The biggest clue is the boat’s planned third occupant.
If Fredo has any idea that Al Neri will be shooting him, he would be leaving Anthony behind.
Fredo never breaks away from acting casually composed.
ExaminingThe Godfather Part II’s ending, however, this doesn’t appear to be the case.
Custom image by Ana Nieves
He then adds, “Okay, kid, you got to go to Reno with your Pop…
I’ll take you fishing again tomorrow, okay?”
Fredo shows neither, simply acting like someone whose plans are getting unexpectedly changed at the last minute.
Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather II continues Michael Corleone’s story as he expands the Corleones' presence as a crime syndicate. The film is also half devoted to the backstory of Vito Corleone, following his rise to power in 1920s New York City. While The Godfather is considered one of the greatest movies ever made, The Godfather Part II was able to live up to the original and secure six Oscars at the 1975 Academy Awards.
For one thing, Fredo knows exactly how his brother, andThe Godfather’s Five Familiesin general, operate.
Fredo would also be aware that Al Neri is the man who typically carries out such murders.
It almost feels like Michael’s button man is actually waiting for Fredo to finish praying.
Fredo may do exactly that as his boat veers farther and farther away from dry land.
The other clue that Fredo has done the math can be found during his very final moments.
WheneverThe Godfather Part IIshows the fishing boat, Fredo is sitting with his back to Al Neri.
Earlier inThe Godfather Part II, Fredo explained that saying Hail Marys was his good luck charm while fishing.
This theory would also explain why Al Neri takes so long to pull the trigger.
Otherwise, there is no reason for Neri to delay.
Michael never intended to let his brother’s story end happily.
