With Marlon Brando and Al Pacino in contention for leading roles in "The Godfather," Ruddy is caught in the line of fire between Evans and Coppola and must pick a side. After gaining Joe Colombo's support, Ruddy gets an uncomfortable glimpse of his new friend's loyalty. The rising stakes surrounding "The Godfather" continues to strain Ruddy's relationship with Francoise.

Ruddy deals with the fallout from the disastrous press conference while Evans creates a plan to save Paramount. Bettye takes action as the first day of filming is compromised due to collisions with Gulf & Western, Paramount, and the Mafia.