GeorgeChabot says "The shame of the nation! Scarface! " about Scarface (1932)

GeorgeChabot — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 00:41:04 GMT

Scarface (1932)

An outstanding gangster movie from the original batch released in the early 1930's, Scarface was a thinly disguised essay on the career of Al Capone staring stage actor Paul Muni whose strange simian-like characterization of the gangster made for a compelling viewing experience. This is the film that was later remade as Scarface, starring Al Pacino.

Director Howard Hawks directed and Howard Hughes produced the definitive gangster movie. Along with Little Caesar and Public Enemy, Scarface took the genre a step further and paved the way for a slew of gangster movies from Warner Bros that helped to enrich their coffers in the lean years of the Depression.

As the film opens, a long tracking shot follows a janitor cleaning up after a wild party. After a long look at the janitor’s work, the camera swings over to the side where the last few revelers are discussing their plans for future crimes. The last guests leave, with only "Big Louie" Costillo, the crime boss, left. Big...

...

ChrisJarmick says "Influential brutal powerful Gangster gem Greatest Film #40" about Scarface (1932)

ChrisJarmick — Sun, 03 Jun 2007 18:38:29 GMT

Brutal, raw and harsh with lots of blatant symbolism, the film was also darkly satiric. It's very dated as a very early sound film and Paul Muni's stylish theatrical acting... but it still packs a powerful punch. Paul Muni is still riveting as Al Capone like mobster. Makes a great double feature with DePalma's crass, wild gory and very watchable re-make with Pacino. This film however is far better, STILL.

#40 on my Greatest Films of all time list.

Scarface 1932 Directed by Howard Hawks

...

Latest reviews about Scarface (1932)

GeorgeChabot says "The shame of the nation! Scarface! " about Scarface (1932)

ChrisJarmick says "Influential brutal powerful Gangster gem Greatest Film #40" about Scarface (1932)