Scarface - Review

"Say hello to my little friend – A review of Scarface. 

There's something about gangster films that just make them so interesting to watch. Maybe it's the rebellious nature of the stories, the escape into a high-stake world full of power and luxury that make them feel dangerous but also darkly glamourous. Scarface, released in 1983 and directed by Brian De Palma, is one of those films which has truly stood the test of time and is remembered as being one of the best gangster films ever made.

Scarface follows the journey of Tony Montana, a Cuban immigrant who arrives in Miami during the Mariel boatlift and starts to rise through the ranks of the city's criminal underworld. The story unfolds as Tony's ambition and ruthlessness take him from poverty to power, a journey full of violence and tragedy. You watch as Tony rises and falls, see his self-destructive nature and the cost of his lifestyle in a fast paced, high stakes and incredibly tense film which is sure to stay with you.

This is a film which explores the idea of the American dream and asks whether the pursuit of status and wealth is worth compromising your morals and risking isolation. It looks at ambition, greed and power, the consequences of excessive lifestyles and disloyalty, and of course the nature of violence in the criminal world, a vicious cycle which proves difficult to escape from even if you want too.

Al Pacino is phenomenal as Tony Montana. He's charismatic but of course completely volatile and highly intense, his performance being magnetic to watch but also deeply unsettling. Pacino's ability to switch between moments of charm, rage and vulnerability keeps you constantly on edge, making Tony a character who is fascinating yet repellent in equal measure. His use of body language, expressive eyes and iconic accent flesh out his character, ensuring Tony Montana remains one of cinema's most memorable antiheroes.

Michelle Pfeiffer, making an early mark in her career as Elvira Hancock, delivers a compelling counterpoint to Pacino's bravado. She's cool and detached, and her subtlety reflects the isolation at the heart of the world she's living in. Her performance is understated but this is perfect to balance out the relentless energy from Pacino, and her scenes add so much depth to the film's exploration of relationships corrupted by ambition and excess.

Scarface is a genuinely brilliant film, and it's gone on to influence countless filmmakers and artists for years since. Full of outstanding performances and with the story being an unflinching look at ambition and downfall, this is a film which is sure to keep you gripped from start to finish.

Written by Tam Page

Posted by Mr. Tomney

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