Carlito's Way (1993)

A Puerto-Rican ex-con, just released from prison, pledges to stay away from drugs and violence despite the pressure around him, and lead a better life outside NYC.

ChrisReynolds

A good crime thriller with strong performances from Pacino and Penn. De Palma does seem more interested in long takes and shot composition than in the rest of the film, but this does lead to some undeniably impressive cinematography.

I was less impressed by the dialogue and the voiceover, which seemed rather clumsy at times. It definitely feels like it's trying to be another Scarface, but the morality-play aspects are pushed a bit too much.

Great chase at the climax, even though the trains are all still running normally despite a bloodbath shootout in the middle of the station.

9 years ago

Panunzio

Less over-the-top than many of De Palma's other films. It's a solid gangster film with a great sense of style.

I have to say, it is bizarre seeing Sean Penn in a role like this – nearly didn't recognise him!

2 years ago

Groovy09

One of De Palma's absolute best. Loved the directing and the performances, especially from Pacino and Sean Penn who delivers some of their best in their entire careers.

8 years ago

More info & statistics

8% of the viewers favorited this title, 0.5% disliked it

Currently in 5 official lists, but has been in 8

Activity

DAVDOPE favorited this title

10 hours ago

DAVDOPE checked this title

10 hours ago

Godistrolling checked this title

3 days ago

whiskyagogo checked this title

3 days ago

leavemealonefrank checked this title

a week ago

sickk.malade checked this title

a week ago

Friends

Log in to see which of your friends have seen this movie

101 Gangster Movies...

101 movies · At #85

Empire's The 500...

500 movies · At #278

Cahiers du Cinéma's...

614 movies · At #301

Sight & Sound's The...

1022 movies · At #851

TSPDT's 1,000...

1001 movies · At #976