I am new, so if this thought has already been suggested, I apologize. There seems to be at least a 25 period of time when we last see young Vito (Robert D) and we first see Don Vito (Marlon B). A great deal must have occured during this time. What do you think?

young vito became one of the most powerful men in the usa, with all the political connections, and also the mosted feared people.

Yes that has been suggested many times, but I think it is the best idea, and if any, the one that should be used. The only problem is finding actors good enought to fill the shoes, which I dont think is possible.
BTW-Welcome

This looks like the most popular idea for a time period. I completely agree... there is such a void.. it's getting to a point where such an enormous rise in power seems inexplainable. It seems like that gap has the MOST to cover that we haven't seen on film or in the book.

It would be neat to see an interpretation of the time period of Vito's rise to power with his children growing up. I could picture a younger Robert DeNiro pulling off Vito in his thirties/forties with teenage Santino and Fredo, and little Michael and Connie. There could be some great scenes with Luca Brasi, Tessio, Clemenza, the other families, the wars, etc...

The only major problem is casting. The perfect window of oppurtunities to cast the characters is getting very tight if not already closed off. Plus, if bad actors are chosen, it would entirely ruin the sense of being a Godfather film. Making a GF4 would be a great deal of work.