John Cazale. Ever heard of him? I'm willing to bet you'd recognize him if I showed you a picture. Never heard of John Cazale, eh?
I've always been facinated by the short career of actor John Cazale. Cazale died at 41 years of age and only appeared in five movies, but he managed to have what is clearly pound for pound the greatest career of any actor, ever. You'll know Cazale best by his role as Fredo in "The Godfather" and "The Godfather: Part II".
Fredo Corleone: I'm your older brother, Mike, and I was stepped over!
Michael Corleone: That's the way Pop wanted it.
Fredo Corleone: It ain't the way I wanted it! I can handle things! I'm smart! Not like everybody says... like dumb... I'm smart and I want respect!
Poor Fredo. Cazale followed up his final turn as the doomed Fredo by playing Al Pacino's partner Sal in "Dog Day Afternoon". Another gem! And how would Cazale wrap up his career before succumbing to brain bone cancer? By playing Stan in a little flick called "The Deer Hunter".
Every movie the man appeared in was nominated for Best Picture. Every role Cazale played stayed with you long after you finished watching. The next time somebody asks you if you've ever heard of John Cazale, you'll be able to nod your head and whisper "five for five".
