Somewhat Dated Perhaps, But Still Unmissable

Rating: 9/10 (14 November 2004)

With so many gangster films having been released since it first appeared in 1983, "Scarface" should perhaps be excused for bringing up a somehow dated feeling to the viewer. Stories about criminals climbing (and killing) their way to the top are not an uncommon theme in many movies; in fact, there are several masterpieces belonging in this genre, such as "Goodfellas" and "Once Upon A Time In America".
And yet, "Scarface" has something original and unique in it that cannot be easily reproduced. Al Pacino is simply unforgettable as Tony Montana, the ruthless and self-destructive Cuban exile who became mighty cocaine boss in Miami, rising from obscurity as a puny dish-washer. Michelle Pfeiffer is also giving a great performance as his beautiful wife Elvira, whose life is full of vanity, coke-snorting, and boredom. The other members of the cast are also very good, with Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio standing out in her role as Tony's hapless sister Gina. And finally, Brian De Palma has one of his finest hours in directing this film, which perhaps is his best so far in his career.
"Scarface" is one of those unmissable films, no matter how many years pass. 9/10.