Carlito's Way

Absolutely the best gangster film I've ever seen (and I've thoroughly enjoyed both Coppola and Scorsese). A film in which there is not a single extra scene, not a single shot is self-serving and everything fits together. Sean Penn's transformation is fascinating, but of course it's Al Pacino who gets all the attention. I maintain that Carlito Brigante is his best role. Tony Montana in Scarface was an asshole - and yet everyone was rooting for him. So with Carlito, who just got out of prison and wants nothing to do with the past, it must be the same. Unfortunately for this Puerto Rican, nothing is going nearly as well as he would like. Brian de Palma is in top form here, the final fifteen minutes at the "station" is unparalleled in the film world, and a thumbs up is also in order for Patrick Doyle's score. All I have to do is listen it on its own and my eyes get weirdly moist... (10/03/2007)

“Sorry boys, all the stitches in the world can't sew me together again. Lay down... lay down. Gonna stretch me out in Fernandez funeral home on Hun and Ninth street. Always knew I'd make a stop there, but a lot later than a whole gang of people thought... Last of the Moh-Ricans... well maybe not the last. Gail's gonna be a good mom... New improved Carlito Brigante... Hope she uses the money to get out. No room in this city for big hearts like hers... Sorry baby, I tried the best I could, honest... Can't come with me on this trip, Loaf. Getting the shakes now, last call for drinks, bars closing down... Sun's out, where are we going for breakfast? Don't wanna go far. Rough night, tired baby... Tired....” One of the greatest mafia movies of all time. (10/26/2006)

A very impressively and somewhat unconventionally made gangster film with the excellent Al Pacino and Penn, Brian de Palma shoots it precisely and uncompromisingly. Carlito, even though he is (was) actually a dirty drug dealer, has his street tough principles that he can't let go of, wins back his love, and wants to make his living hiring out cars. But his path goes in many directions... The character of Carlito provides a fairly comprehensive character analysis of the decent and principled gangster, and Al Pacino is simply superb in his role. (06/16/2009)

One of the few gangster movies that I’ve really liked. This time the protagonist is not an insufferable arrogant criminal, but the likeable and honourable Al Pacino, someone you can root for. That’s what I miss in other similar movies and the reason why I don’t like them in general. I didn’t have this problem with Carlito’s Way and I was able to truly enjoy this good quality film. Sean Penn delivers a superb performance, I didn’t recognise him at first. (09/04/2009)

A great old-school gangster movie where Pacino once again gives his best. His Carlito walks the line between a principled cool guy and a cold-blooded killer, so you just have to fall in love with him. Already the opening monologue grabs you by the heart. Slick and slimy Sean Penn was also great, and I now know who the model was for Ken Rosenberg from GTA: Vice City. De Palma plays with the camera, as is his tradition, especially in the final chase scene, which only confirms his directorial skills. (06/12/2009)