Scarface (Al Pacino) hanging out with his little friend (Michelle Pfeiffer).
It is not hard to see why Scarface has remained within the zeitgeist. Not since Robocop (1987) have I seen a film that is so entertaining from so many different perspectives. At the surface level, it is a film about the rags to riches journey of Antonio Montana. A participant in the Mariel boatlift and a fresh refugee from Fidel Castro’s communist Cuba, Tony wastes no time in staking his claim on a piece of the American pie. What ensues is a carnage inducing romp through a cocaine fueled Miami, ripe with the imagery and sounds of the 80s Synthwave aesthetic with a dash of Art Deco sensibilities.
Scarface wears its Italian influences on its sleeve. Giorgio Moroder’s pulsing synth driven soundtrack is the standout component of this film. His musical themes are simple, yet succinct in defining the undercurrent of the tonally diverse scenes. As with the movie itself, the soundtrack excels at being both a self-serious composition and a rambunctious action score. The soundtrack also boasts at least 4 solid synthpop tracks, all written and produced by Moroder, one of which is sung by Blondie frontwoman, Debbie Harry.
The action sequences are likewise reminiscent of Giallo thrillers. Suspense is often built through tight closeups and reaction shots. It is rare for the film to actually show the violent act, choosing instead to leave it off camera for the viewers’ imagination in favor of highlighting the brutal aftermath. Despite this, there is an element of camp which permeates throughout the film; a pinch of sugar which is used to masterfully cutdown the bolder flavors like a chainsaw wielding maniac.
Scarface (Al Pacino) getting acquainted with a chainsaw wielding maniac (Al Israel)
Editor’s Note: Josh <redacted> felt incredibly douche-y reading back what he has written thus far. He has decided to abandon the rest of the review and re-evaluate his life.
Final Score: 3.5/5
Josh <redacted> is a long time friend and contributor to the Arts & Culture column at On the Can! Media. He enjoys doting on himself and brisk walks.