Al Pacino’s career is a storied journey through some of cinema’s most iconic roles, from the grittiest of crime dramas to intense character studies. He’s been celebrated as one of Hollywood’s greatest actors, but even legends have missteps. Here’s a look at Pacino’s finest work and some of the less-than-stellar choices he made along the way, as ranked by critics.
1. The Godfather (1972)
Pacino’s Role: Michael Corleone
Critic Score: Near-perfect
Nothing short of legendary, Pacino’s Michael Corleone in The Godfather is one of the most transformative performances in film history. His portrayal of Michael’s journey from war hero to mob boss is hauntingly subtle and powerful, marking Pacino’s arrival as a major actor. Many critics and fans consider it the greatest crime drama of all time, and Pacino is central to that legacy.
2. Scarface (1983)
Pacino’s Role: Tony Montana
Critic Score: Mixed on release, beloved today
Though divisive among critics when it came out, Scarface quickly became a cultural phenomenon. Pacino’s brash portrayal of Cuban immigrant-turned-drug lord Tony Montana is iconic, his wild, intense energy perfectly capturing the excesses and pitfalls of the American Dream gone wrong. Today, it’s a cult classic, cemented as a top-tier Pacino performance.
3. Dog Day Afternoon (1975)
Pacino’s Role: Sonny Wortzik
Critic Score: Outstanding
In Dog Day Afternoon, Pacino channels desperation and vulnerability in his role as a bank robber caught in a hopeless situation. His portrayal of Sonny, who’s robbing a bank to fund his partner’s surgery, is deeply empathetic and layered, showcasing his ability to bring humanity to flawed characters. Critics praised Pacino for his raw performance, which earned him an Oscar nomination.
4. Scent of a Woman (1992)
Pacino’s Role: Frank Slade
Critic Score: Positive
In this film, Pacino took home his long-deserved Oscar for his role as the blind, volatile, but charismatic Lieutenant Colonel Frank Slade. His famous “hoo-ah!” catchphrase and powerful, unrestrained performance transformed a potentially simple character study into a rich exploration of redemption, loneliness, and mentorship.
5. The Godfather Part II (1974)
Pacino’s Role: Michael Corleone
Critic Score: One of the best-rated sequels
Expanding on his iconic role, Pacino’s turn in The Godfather Part II took Michael Corleone’s story even deeper. Critics heralded the film as a masterpiece and praised Pacino’s nuanced portrayal of Michael as he falls deeper into paranoia and moral decay, trying to hold together his empire while pushing away everything he holds dear.
6. Heat (1995)
Pacino’s Role: Lt. Vincent Hanna
Critic Score: High
Heat brought Pacino and Robert De Niro face-to-face in an intense, cat-and-mouse thriller that had audiences hooked. As Lt. Vincent Hanna, Pacino’s obsessive detective gave us some of the film’s most intense and unforgettable scenes. Critics loved the film’s gritty atmosphere and Pacino’s high-energy performance, hailing it as a modern crime classic.
7. Serpico (1973)
Pacino’s Role: Frank Serpico
Critic Score: High
In Serpico, Pacino plays an idealistic NYPD officer who blows the whistle on corruption within the department. Critics celebrated the film for its hard-hitting social commentary, and Pacino’s gripping performance helped turn Serpico into a true hero in American cinema. This role helped cement Pacino’s reputation as an actor willing to tackle complex characters with conviction.
8. The Devil’s Advocate (1997)
Pacino’s Role: John Milton
Critic Score: Mixed to positive
Pacino’s devilish charm shines as John Milton, a law firm head with some… let’s say infernal motivations. The film mixes thriller with supernatural themes, and Pacino’s unhinged performance is one of the best parts of the movie. Critics appreciated his over-the-top, scenery-chewing style here, making it a memorable Pacino role even if the film isn’t a top-tier classic.
9. Carlito’s Way (1993)
Pacino’s Role: Carlito Brigante
Critic Score: Positive
Playing a former gangster trying to go straight, Pacino brought depth and world-weariness to Carlito Brigante. Though not as widely acclaimed as some of his other roles, critics found Pacino’s performance to be complex and compelling, giving the film a unique edge among crime dramas.
10. …And Justice for All (1979)
Pacino’s Role: Arthur Kirkland
Critic Score: Positive
As a lawyer battling corruption within the justice system, Pacino delivered one of his most famous lines, “You’re out of order!” Critics lauded his passionate performance, turning a courtroom drama into a powerful look at moral dilemmas. It’s not as celebrated as The Godfather, but Pacino’s role here is a fan favorite.
11. Donnie Brasco (1997)
Pacino’s Role: Lefty Ruggiero
Critic Score: Positive
In this crime drama, Pacino plays an aging gangster opposite Johnny Depp’s undercover FBI agent. The relationship between Pacino and Depp’s characters is the soul of the film, and Pacino’s portrayal of Lefty as a weary, vulnerable man facing betrayal makes the film stand out.
12. The Recruit (2003)
Pacino’s Role: Walter Burke
Critic Score: Mixed
While The Recruit isn’t a top-tier Pacino classic, he brings a commanding presence as a CIA trainer who recruits a young agent (played by Colin Farrell). Though the plot didn’t win over all critics, Pacino’s performance was praised for adding intrigue and intensity to a fairly standard spy thriller.
13. The Humbling (2014) – Flop
In The Humbling, Pacino plays a washed-up actor in a film that sadly didn’t resonate with audiences or critics. The slow pacing and disjointed narrative overshadowed Pacino’s performance, and critics found the film underwhelming, despite Pacino’s attempt to bring depth to his character.
14. 88 Minutes (2007) – Flop
Critics were harsh on 88 Minutes, where Pacino plays a forensic psychiatrist who receives a death threat. The film’s convoluted plot and pacing didn’t do Pacino any favors, with many critics citing it as one of his most forgettable roles.
15. Righteous Kill (2008) – Flop
This cop drama reunited Pacino with Robert De Niro, but critics panned the film for its clichéd plot and lackluster dialogue. Despite the star power, Righteous Kill felt formulaic, and critics felt Pacino and De Niro deserved a more compelling project to showcase their legendary chemistry.
16. Gigli (2003) – Flop
While not the main star, Pacino’s cameo in Gigli couldn’t save it from becoming a punchline in Hollywood. Critics and audiences alike derided the film’s storyline, and despite Pacino’s brief appearance, it became infamous for its poor reception.
17. Revolution (1985) – Flop
Set during the American Revolution, Revolution was plagued by production issues and poorly received. Pacino himself later admitted it was one of his least favorite films, and critics found the plot chaotic and Pacino’s talents underutilized. Despite his dedication, the film just didn’t land with audiences or critics.
Al Pacino’s career spans hits that changed cinema and a few misses that are best left in the past. His ability to bring depth and intensity to his roles, however, remains unmatched. From his towering performances in The Godfather and Scarface to his experiments with different genres, Pacino’s impact on film history is undeniable. Even when the script doesn’t hold up, he’s a legend who made each project uniquely his own.
