Yes, it is worth the hype.

Rating: 9/10 (2 March 2008)

A definitive classic, "Scarface" has remained relevant and entertaining to fans, 25 years after its release. It tells the story of Cuban immigrant Tony Montana, played amazingly by Al Pacino. Tony is reckless, defiant, charismatic, and hungry for success in America. He and his friend Manolo come to America, and become involved in the drug dealing business. After a couple of lucrative deals, and dethroning a drug kingpin who backstabbed him, Tony climbs to the top of his empire. He has the money, he has the power. But soon, his decisions affect everything and everyone around him, endangering him of losing it all.
Those who say that this film is not "worth the hype" are wrong. It is a very lengthy film, clocking in at a little over 2 1/2 hours. But it is worth it. It takes time to allow this story to unfold. One can't go from ex-convict refugee to wealthy drug lord completely overnight. It is a wonderfully written story. From the beginning, you can see the lengths Tony is willing to go to get what he wants. He doesn't feel guilt over killing a Communist to obtain a green card, or doesn't slow down when his friend is murdered in a drug trade gone bad. He just keeps going. Coming from humble backgrounds, Tony has outrageous goals he wants to achieve, such as owning a tiger and stealing his boss's girlfriend Elvira, and building a family with her. However, he proceeds to get these things, because of his bold and driven attitude. But, the film is also a morality tale. The ways in which Tony lives and gets what he wants are illegal, immoral, and unhealthy. The attitude Tony displays often gets him into trouble. This is what ultimately leads to his downfall.
The cast of characters are played by talented actors. In the lead role, Al Pacino shines as Tony Montana. He is all at once funny, charming, violent, and brash. He could be considered the bad guy, but he has a way of making you like him. However, you know eventually he will meet his downfall, which he does. Michelle Pfeiffer also stands out in her debut role as Elvira, the bored drug-addicted housewife. On the surface, Elvira seems cold and distant to those around her. But, as the film goes on, you can tell she is a good person who is just caught up in the storm going on around her. Steven Bauer,who plays Manolo, is a great, more light hearted counterpart to Montana and Mary Elizabeth Monstrantonio also does well as Tony's spunky and sweet natured young sister Gina, who eventually gets corrupted by his world, despite his efforts for her not to be.
This film has found great popularity among the youth of today, especially those in the hip-hop community. I think its because it speaks to the ambitious dreams of those who come from humble beginnings. Some people want it all, the so-called American Dream, and will do whatever they can do obtain it, such as Tony did. But the question this film poses is : When you get it, are you actually happy? Was it all worth it? "Scarface" speaks to the morals in all of us, and is a more complex movie than some give it credit for.
And it is definitely in my top 5 movies of all time, by the way. Bias or not, I recommend this to almost anyone, because it speaks to a lot of people. Just as long as you don't mind a lot of profanity or violence, or go into it with great expectations, you should be pleased.