Carlito's Way vs. Scarface

Attribute	Carlito's Way	Scarface
Director	Brian De Palma	Brian De Palma
Main Character	Carlito Brigante	Tony Montana
Setting	New York City	Miami
Release Year	1993	1983
Genre	Crime, Drama	Crime, Drama

Plot

Both Carlito's Way and Scarface are crime films directed by Brian De Palma and written by Oliver Stone. While Scarface follows the rise and fall of Cuban immigrant Tony Montana in Miami's drug trade, Carlito's Way focuses on the story of Puerto Rican ex-convict Carlito Brigante trying to go straight after being released from prison. In Scarface, Tony Montana's ambition and greed lead to his downfall, while Carlito in Carlito's Way tries to leave his criminal past behind but is constantly pulled back into the world he is trying to escape.

Main Characters

In Scarface, Al Pacino plays the iconic role of Tony Montana, a ruthless and ambitious drug lord who will stop at nothing to achieve his goals. On the other hand, Carlito's Way features Al Pacino as Carlito Brigante, a more introspective and conflicted character who is trying to redeem himself and start a new life. While Tony Montana is driven by power and wealth, Carlito is motivated by a desire for redemption and a chance at a fresh start.

Setting

Both films are set in the gritty underworld of crime, but they take place in different locations. Scarface is set in Miami during the 1980s, a time known for its drug wars and excess. The neon-lit streets and opulent mansions of Miami serve as a backdrop for Tony Montana's rise to power and eventual downfall. On the other hand, Carlito's Way is set in 1970s New York City, a city plagued by crime and corruption. The dark alleys and smoky bars of New York provide a stark contrast to the glitz and glamour of Miami in Scarface.

Themes

Both films explore themes of power, ambition, and the consequences of a life of crime. Scarface delves into the destructive nature of greed and the pursuit of power at any cost. Tony Montana's insatiable desire for more leads to his ultimate downfall and demise. In contrast, Carlito's Way focuses on themes of redemption and second chances. Carlito struggles to break free from his criminal past and make amends for his past mistakes, but finds it difficult to escape the pull of his old life.

Style

Both films are known for their stylish direction and intense performances. Brian De Palma's signature visual flair is evident in both movies, with sweeping camera movements and elaborate set pieces. The use of slow-motion and dramatic lighting adds to the tension and drama of the films. Al Pacino's performances in both movies are also standout, showcasing his range as an actor and his ability to portray complex characters with depth and emotion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Carlito's Way and Scarface are both crime films directed by Brian De Palma and starring Al Pacino, they differ in terms of plot, characters, setting, themes, and style. Scarface is a tale of ambition and greed leading to destruction, set in the flashy world of 1980s Miami, while Carlito's Way is a story of redemption and second chances set in the gritty streets of 1970s New York City. Both films are classics in their own right, showcasing the talents of their cast and crew, and leaving a lasting impact on audiences.