A perfect love story within a mafia setting (Carlito's Way (DVD))

Member Name: bruffyboy

Product:	Carlito's Way (DVD)
Date:	04/03/09 (32 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: acting

Disadvantages: none

WHAT IS IT ABOUT:
Al Pacino stars as Carlito Brigante, a mafia legend who is intent on going straight upon his release from prison. Through family, and ultimately his corrupt lawyer, he ends up being drawn back into organised crime, yet he desperately wants to leave it all behind to be with the love of his life, Gail.

WAS IT ANY GOOD:
This has to be one of the all-time greats in terms of mafia films. First up, Pacino is perfectly cast as an 'older' gangster. His true age reflects that of his character, and he plays the part with easy brilliance. Unlike The Godfather Part 3, they don't make the mistake of artificial ageing, and Pacino is just right here. As an expert at the mafia role, he eases his way through the film, giving a rich and authentic showing, but he is by no means the only one: a phenomenal Sean Penn gives a career best performance as the lawyer who crosses over to the other side. He gives so much energy and desperation in the role, it's difficult not to be drawn to emotion for him one way or the other. A bizarre performance from Viggo Mortenson, and a promising role for John Leguizamo complete a very strong cast.

What makes this film stand out from the rest is the love story, brilliantly portrayed by Pacino and Penelope Ann Miller. It's as touching and moving as a love story (particularly with the final song at the end) as anything I've seen, and therefore works brilliantly on multiple levels.

IF YOU LIKED IT:
The story itself is based on a book, of which there is another if you want to read more in the series. For a similarly brilliant mafia flick based around nightclubs, try the scorching Scarface.

Summary: watch it