Review: Carlito's Way Ultimate Edition (B+)

Carlito's Way (1993)
Directed by Brian De Palma
Starring Al Pacino, Sean Penn, Luis Guzman, Penelope Ann Miller, John Leguizamo
MPAA: R
Grade: B+

Review by Bobby Nasvhille

It is no secret that I love gangster films. Therefore it might shock some to learn that before last night, I had never watched Carlito's Way in it's entirety. Clips here, sections there, but I had never actually sat down and watched Carlito's Way from start to finish. Seeing this underrated gangster film all the way through for the first time, I have to admit, it's damn good.

The story for Carlito's Way is somewhat cliche, but hey, it still works. A former gangster (Al Pacino) is released from prison and wants to go straight. But before he can even start going straight, he is pulled back in to the life of crime. His goal is to earn enough money running a nightclub to run away with his ex-girlfriend (played wonderfully by Penelope Ann Miller). But his past comes back to haunt him. Criminals everywhere are trying to either pull him back into the biz, or take him out entirely. To make matters worse, his lawyer and best friend (played by Sean Penn) is addicted to drugs and in way over his head with the criminals that he represents.

The fast paced script of Carlito's Way is a pleasant surprise. With Al Pacino and Sean Penn in the leads, the acting is fantastic. This may actually be one of Sean Penn's most interesting roles - he plays a afro wearing coke head that has serious issues. And of course, it almost goes without saying - Al Pacino is incredible. The bonus - another great little role for one of our all time favorite character actors Luis Guzman.

The Carlito's Way ultimate edition is packed with extras such as deleted scenes, interviews with the director and lots more. This is a very solid gangster film. For fans of De Palma, Pacino or Penn, this is a must own.