Payback, for real Michael died a very sad, lonely man. The difference between him and his father was that his father died happily, enjoying life, while in the comfort of his grandson. See the movie, then understand why Michael paid the ultimate price (twice). I shall have to go on, for nothing less than the purpose of fulfilling the requirements of submission would permit me to explain the real meaning of the story. I could comment on all of the attributes that the actors have shown in their respective performances, and agree, or disagree, with comments made about Sofia, the daughter of the director, but my real reason for writing is to convey how a person might have to pay for the errors of his ways by losing the most important want in his life. Michael's biggest joy in life was his daughter.