“The Godfather Part II” follows two parallel narratives. The first explores the early life of Vito Corleone, portrayed by Robert De Niro, showing his rise from a young orphaned Sicilian immigrant in New York to becoming a powerful mafia don. This storyline highlights Vito’s journey from poverty to power, as he establishes his influence and begins the Corleone crime family.

The second narrative continues the story of Vito’s son, Michael Corleone, played by Al Pacino, set in the 1950s. Michael, now the head of the Corleone family, struggles to maintain and expand the family’s criminal empire amidst growing challenges and betrayals. As Michael becomes increasingly ruthless, he distances himself from his family, especially after a significant betrayal by his brother Fredo, which ultimately leads to tragic consequences. The film intricately weaves these two stories together, contrasting Vito’s rise with Michael’s moral and personal decline.