The value of GFIII actually started with the flashback scene of GFII at its end. That scene was a segue to one man's reflection on life and his search for redemption. GFIII was important for that reason - it dealt with consequences. As Doc Holliday told Wyatt Earp in the movie by that name: "There's only what we do." Your motivations, your intelligence, your skills, what's in your heart, the light or dark in your soul mean nothing compared to what you end up doing.

Sometimes I think that some people criticize GFIII not so much because of its plot liberties or its acting, but because it reminds them of what they may have done, sins they may have committed. It makes them realize that they can't take it back just like Mike realized the same thing. It makes them realize that there are no do overs. For many, GFIII was a reflection in their mirror.