This was a less stressful directing and writing gig for Francis, and his commentary reflects that. The commentary is split in two just like the film is split into two over two DVDs. So this gives you a nice break inbetween rather than listening to a 200min commentary.
Francis gives us more insight into one of the best trilogies in film history. He tells us about casting, problems that occured, locations, the writing and much more.
Although there are moments of silence in the commentary (which makes you wonder if Francis is coming back) its recommended for anyone who desires to know more about the film.

Initially, Coppola had no interest in doing a sequel and dealing with studio bureaucracy. He suggested Martin Scorsese for the job. The studio balked at this idea and accepted all of Coppola’s terms. Coppola also touches upon his love of improvisation and how he had the cast rehearse on location in Lake Tahoe. They improvised for a whole day in effort to get into character. Coppola is engaging and very articulate, delivering a top notch track that is well worth a listen for any fan of this movie.

I've never thought that Part II was better than Part I. Aside from the story of Vito coming to the USA & growing into a crime lord, the movie's always seemed like a trite rehash of the 1st (party, business dealings, root out traitors, massacre). That said, the commentary Coppola did for this one is excellent, almost as good as the one he recorded for Part I. His insights into the production of the film are always interesting & he keeps perfect pace for the 3+ hour running time, quite an accomplishment, I think. And don't miss the chance to listen to his commentary for Part III - it may be the weakest of the series but the track is worth a listen.

Very similar to me as his commentary for Godfather 1 (and the same as on the Godfather Saga). Lots of insights, lots of things pointed out. It absolutely adds to your appreciation of the film. But in this sequel you can tell he was more relaxed making it, more comfortable, so there is a lot of passion in what he talks about rather than the horrible stories of how he was certain he was going to be fired at any minute, and none of it would work out.

When I first heard Coppola's speaking voice I thought he sounded dumb as a bag of bricks. Like a dock worker they won't allow near heavy machinery. Then I saw an interview with him where he talked about a learning diability, being made fun of and even his parents thinking he was stupid. He had a secret desire to be a writer and would go to sleep frustrated in tears over his failures, his lack of talent and abilities, until he discovered film. Now the guy is a certified genius and a very successful one. So much for judging a book by its cover and all that. Obviously the guy has great intelligence. I just wanted to remark on that because when I hear him talk its a striking feature of his. He's kind of inspirational in a way for beating the odds to accomplish all that he has.

He continues the commentary from Godfather 1 which I think were recorded at the same time along with the third installment for the box set. I really enjoyed hearing about his ability to source real material, most of which was from his own family which lent the movie some extra authenticity. Being free from the grip of the studio allowed him to make the film the way he wanted. He notes that taking on the responsibility of such a huge picture with
multiple international locations was going to be quite a task but as he says "I was up for it ".