This film depicts drug trafficking and paranoia with considerable violence, featuring a strong cast and impressive production values, though it suffers from an over-the-top and melodramatic feel. I watched this movie on television recently after hearing about Al Pacino’s performance, and I wanted to see it for myself. Directed by Brian de Palma, it was significant in its time but has largely faded from memory. This is easy to understand: beyond the excessive violence and a rather blunt approach to drug trafficking, there isn't a single character that’s genuinely likable, creating distance between the film and the audience. Brian de Palma is generally a reliable director; I regret not having seen more of his work. I particularly enjoyed “Carrie,” which remains my favorite of his so far, as well as “Untouchables.” In this movie, he did a commendable job, especially from a technical standpoint, but it lacks heart and eventually feels like pure brutality. The chainsaw scene and the final shootout are memorable enough for an anthology film. The film is technically flawless, with lavish production details: the cinematography is beautiful, effectively capturing the sun and brightness of Florida and conveying a sense of the tropical climate. The sets and costumes not only accurately reflect the era but also highlight the characters’ newfound wealth and rapid rise in status. It's certainly outrageously gaudy – even the soundtrack reinforces that! But what else could you expect from people lacking taste, culture, or education who are determined to flaunt their money? I would agree with anyone who says it runs too long, though; some scenes feel unnecessary or unbelievable (the scene where Gina, in a fit of anger, offers herself sexually to her brother is one example). With some trimming, about thirty minutes could easily be cut, making the film more enjoyable. The screenplay is based on a remake of a 1932 original produced by Howard Hughes, a fact few people realize. The title may draw inspiration from Al Capone’s unflattering nickname, “scarface.” Al Pacino delivers a performance that's histrionic, unlikeable, and intensely paranoid; it’s an extreme portrayal. While the intentional exaggeration might be jarring, it seems consistent with a film where everything is amplified. Still, I don't consider this to be among his finest roles—I’ve enjoyed seeing him in other parts more. Robert Loggia and Steven Bauer provide solid supporting performances, but Michelle Pfeiffer mostly exists to appear attractive and self-absorbed. Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio and F. Murray Abraham are given characters that feel underdeveloped.

Source on TMDB