How Had I Not Seen This Movie!? Part 14: Scarface

Scarface

I had a feeling that Scarface would end up being my least favorite Brian De Palma movie to date. Released in 1983, Scarface is the story of Tony Montana (Al Pacino), a Cuban refugee who quickly rises to the top of the Miami drug trade. Respected by the higher-ups due to his hot temper and willingness to always say what's on his mind, Tony works his way up until he is the most powerful kingpin in town. However, as is expected of all movies focused on a criminal rising through the ranks, Tony's quick rise is cut short due to his increasing paranoia and desire to always want more. As a remake of a 1930s Gangster movie, Scarface is an excellent update to a quintessential American morality tale. However, while the movie itself works as a satire on 80s excess and flashiness, I ironically found the film to be just a bit too pedestrian, lacking the uniqueness that I've come to expect in De Palma's movies.

You're Welcome,

Dave

Valuable Life Lesson Learned: Don't get high on your own supply.

Upcoming Titles:

- Carlito's Way

- Phantom of the Paradise

- The Manchurian Candidate

- To Catch a Thief