October 16, 2024: Academy Award winner Al Pacino recently opened up about a performance he felt was overlooked during the awards season, specifically his iconic role as Tony Montana in the 1983 crime drama “Scarface.”
While promoting his memoir “Sonny Boy” in the UK, Pacino expressed his disappointment at not receiving an Oscar nomination for this film. He stated, “I would have liked to have even got nominated for that one,” reflecting on the cultural impact and lasting legacy of his portrayal in a film that has since become a classic.
“Scarface,” directed by Brian De Palma, features some of cinema’s most memorable lines, including the famous “Say hello to my little friend,” which has been widely referenced and parodied in various media. Despite the film’s controversial reception at the time of its release, Pacino’s performance has been celebrated by fans and critics alike, solidifying his status as one of Hollywood’s greatest actors.
While Pacino ultimately won an Oscar for his role in “Scent of a Woman,” he has received a total of seven nominations throughout his career, including for his performances in the first two “Godfather” films. His remarks about “Scarface” highlight the unpredictability of the Oscars and the sometimes-overlooked performances that resonate deeply with audiences.
In addition to discussing his past roles, Pacino also touched upon personal challenges he faced, particularly a recent health scare. He recounted a harrowing experience where he believed he was on the brink of death. “I didn’t have a pulse,” he shared, recounting the moment when paramedics rushed to his aid. He vividly remembered waking up to find multiple paramedics in his living room, questioning what had happened to him. “How could I be dead? If I was dead, I fainted,” he quipped, emphasizing the surreal nature of the experience.
Looking ahead, Pacino is set to appear in “Modi: Three Days on the Wing of Madness,” a film about artist Amedeo Modigliani, which he co-produced alongside Johnny Depp and Barry Navidi.
His enduring presence in the film industry continues to captivate audiences, as he reflects on his past and looks forward to future projects.
