MJ5K's Review

Summary - Great 4.0

Scarface is widely considered by many to be “one of the greatest films in existence.” Personally, I’ve always looked at it as the film where Pacino goes bat sh*t insane. After this, Pacino would portray the manic Tony Montana in just about every role of his that followed. Gone was the brilliant and subtle actor we remembered from films like The Godfather and here was this wide eyed psycho who goes over the top and has this grim gruff to his voice. While I don’t think Scarface holds up as well as some of Pacino’s other films, I can respect the fact that it is indeed one of the definitive 80’s films that paved the way for other films to follow. With its music and style, it really takes us all back to one of the coolest and even corrupt decades.

Scarface is the story of the American dream. It follows the rise of Cuban immigrant Tony Montana. It follows Montana from his arrive in America fresh out of Catro’s jails to his constant killing sprees to his rise to the top of Miami’s drug chain. There’s much more to the plot, but if I said anything else, I’d be giving to much away.

Despite the three hour run time, the film is very enjoyable. The fact the film is so over the top and pushes the goof ball factor so much just adds to the entertainment factor. Still, the story does work to a large degree and it the film is very engaging. The film does showcase Tony’s transition from Cuban outlaw to rich Drug Lord. Overall, a pinnacle 80s film. If you ever found yourself rooting for the bad guy, this is for you.

Acting - Good 3.0

The whole thing is pretty much a one man show completely riding on Pacino’s shoulders. He’s so loud and over the top that he’s just fun to watch. Like many of the over the top qualities to the film, Pacino just adds to all of the entertainment!

Film - Great 4.0

The script is solid, despite a somewhat silly execution. The film is a bit too stylized when it should be grittier. De Palma’s direction and Pacino’s performance keeps this film together. Plus, the soundtrack kicks major assage : )

Edge - Horrid 4.0

This is one of the most violent films I’ve ever seen. Its also very profane. I’d probably recommend this for anyone over 15.

Reality - Glib 2.0

1 Comment

• Wick Nov 3, 2010 9:37AM

  Regarding MetalJunky5000’s Review
  Balanced and sober assessment MJ. It’s been years since I’ve screened it, though I remember having to turn away from the screen when the chain saws came out.

  One thing you didn’t mention that has gone viral is Pacino’s “Say hello to my little friend” line. You hear it so often now it’s become cliche.

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