Scarface: Review

When it comes to classic gangster movies, Scarface is widely regarded to be up there with greats such as 'The Godfather'. It follows the aggressive rise in power of Cuban immigrant Tony Montana (Al Pacino) through a drug cartel, after he begins from the very bottom. But is Scarface really worthy of being compared to such iconic films?

First, lets get the positive points of the movie out the way. Al Pacino plays the angry character of Tony Montana very well, delivering all of his lines in a superb fashion. The scenes where he goes into a blind rage are the amongst the best in the movie, creating memorable quotes which have been repeated for years and years since it's release. Also, there are times when the story is engrossing and interesting, leading you to wonder how it will all conclude. 

Tony Montana (Al Pacino)

Unfortunately however, there seems to be far more negative points to Scarface. The film runs for a colossal three hours, which isn't completely unheard of, but the pacing just isn't up to scratch to keep things interesting. By about the two-hour point, I was wondering how long it was until the end, as it already seemed to have been on for an incredibly long time. This is solely down to the fact there are many scenes which could have been cut and it have benefited the film, which is never a good sign. Also, there are certain characters which we are expected to care about but simply cannot, due to them not being fleshed-out enough or just being simply unlike-able. 

The main problem really is that Scarface has been over-hyped so much, it's become ridiculous. It's in no way an awful movie, just with a little editing and shortening, could have been far better. I just don't feel it deserves the status it has gained, as it is constantly referenced in many aspects of pop-culture and hailed as one of the greatest gangster movies by many. 

Verdict
It may now be a very controversial thing to say, but I can't honestly recommend you see Scarface, unless you have a spare three hours with literally nothing to do. There are a few moments which almost redeem the countless unneeded scenes, but in the end you feel like you've wasted a long time rather than gained anything. If you are a huge fan of Al Pacino, it's a good idea to watch one of the films which made him a household name, but otherwise I don't think I could blame you for giving it a miss.    7/10

"I always tell the truth, even when I'm lying."