Scarface

I saw Scarface years ago, but even though I can vividly recall many details from the distant past, I didn't dare to review this film because it didn't really stand out to me. Now I have seen it for the second time and I have to admit that, considering the high ratings from fans, it brought me great disappointment. Brian De Palma made one of my favorite gangster films, Carlito's Way, but this time the story of a Cuban criminal felt very dragged out, the main character uncharismatic, and the ending of the film is simply and plainly stupid. The whole final battle for the luxurious villa is like something from a very bad action movie. Michelle Pfeiffer is indeed beautiful, but she doesn't have much room to act, Al Pacino does his best, but this time he seems to be overacting, and most importantly, there's quite a bit of filler in the film. Perhaps the only thing that pleased me was the confrontation with the Colombian gang in the opening part. Emotionally, I felt completely indifferent about the heroes and anti-heroes. Overall impression: 45%. (22/11/2009)

This film has many deaf spots where the editor’s scissors should have been involved to ruthlessly shorten it. Brian De Palma knows how to create an atmosphere, but he can't maintain the pace. A big credit goes to the actors. Al Pacino is unforgettable and practically carries the whole film on his shoulders. With his Spanish accent and sneering face, he captures attention for the entire 170 minutes. (28/11/2004)

I still can’t fully understand the massive popularity of gangster movies. They force the viewer to sympathise with arrogant (and often incompetent) criminals that make their profession look like the coolest thing in the world. This is a behaviour I can’t stand in any form and that’s why these films leave me underwhelmed, and Scarface is no exception. The three star rating, however, is quite strong. The shootout in the end is awesome. (16/06/2009)

Probably the biggest movie debt I've had and I'm very glad I took the time to watch it after a long time, because Scarface hasn't aged a day in 40 years. This is an excellent gangster movie that keeps you entertained, shocked, it’s suspenseful and fascinating for the entire two and a half hours. Al Pacino is excellent, but at times he got on my nerves with his behaviour, his sister is hot and so is Elvira. The action scenes have balls even today and blood is not spared. Perhaps the best part is the rise of Al Pacino from nothing to the absolute top. A great cinematic experience and actually a gem among gangster films. 95% (03/09/2018)

A very, very good film, I like it very much... But I'm still not giving it 5 stars. It simply not on the level of Carlito's Way, and that's because Tony Montana is a bastard who you can't really root for. However, all those responsible for Scarface did a very good job.__P.S. Anyone who doesn't hold their breath even once during the chainsaw scene has something wrong with them. (31/10/2009)