As the legendary actor Al Pacino celebrates his 86th birthday, we take a look back at his most memorable film performances, ranking them from his lesser-known works to his iconic roles. From his early days in 'The Panic in Needle Park' to his later collaborations with Martin Scorsese, Pacino has delivered a remarkable range of portrayals that have cemented his status as one of Hollywood's greatest actors.
20. Manglehorn (2014)
In this film, Pacino plays a former Little League baseball coach turned locksmith, complete with greased-back hair and spectacles. The movie features a cringe-worthy scene where he reminisces about a lost love during a dinner date, oblivious to his companion's irritation.
19. Any Given Sunday (1999)
Oliver Stone's football drama is frenzied and unsubtle, but Pacino delivers a performance of style and grace as the idealistic coach of the Miami Sharks. His speech about winning or losing like a man is a standout moment.
18. Insomnia (2002)
In Christopher Nolan's atmospheric remake, Pacino plays a guilt-ridden cop investigating a murder in Alaska. Both he and Robin Williams dial down their usual mania, creating a tense and compelling thriller.
17. The Devil's Advocate (1997)
Pacino plays the devil in this Faustian horror-comedy, tempting a young lawyer played by Keanu Reeves. Fans of 'Shouty Al' will enjoy his carnival barker routine, though others may tire of the one-joke premise.
16. Scarface (1983)
Pacino's portrayal of Cuban refugee Tony Montana is bombastic and exhausting, but the film's excess is intentional. Despite its flaws, the performance remains iconic.
15. The Godfather Part III (1990)
Despite its troubled production, this film has its defenders, including director Luca Guadagnino. Pacino's mournful gaze and silent scream in the final moments are deeply moving.
14. Sea of Love (1989)
This lean thriller marked Pacino's return to cinema after a four-year hiatus. He plays a frazzled cop falling for a suspect while hunting a murderer who uses lonely hearts ads.
13. Looking for Richard (1996)
Pacino directed and starred in this documentary about Shakespeare's Richard III. His light, comic presence was a revelation, though he later returned to broader comedy in 'Jack and Jill'.
12. Cruising (1980)
Despite protests and controversy, this film has aged well as a critique of homophobia. Pacino plays an undercover cop in New York's leather scene, and he donated his fee to LGBTQ+ charities.
11. Glengarry Glen Ross (1992)
Pacino dominates as smooth-talking salesman Ricky Roma in David Mamet's play about cut-throat real estate. His insult to Kevin Spacey's character is delivered with relish, earning him an Oscar nomination.
10. The Panic in Needle Park (1971)
In his second film, Pacino plays a heroin addict who introduces his girlfriend to drugs. His decline is pronounced and haunting, showcasing his early talent.
9. The Irishman (2019)
Working with Martin Scorsese for the first time, Pacino plays Teamsters boss Jimmy Hoffa. His colourful portrayal stands out in this autumnal mob epic.
8. Donnie Brasco (1997)
Pacino is unbearably poignant as Lefty, a low-level mobster taken under the wing of an FBI agent played by Johnny Depp. His performance is the heart of the film.
7. Heat (1995)
Pacino and Robert De Niro share the screen for the first time in Michael Mann's thriller. Their coffee-shop scene is a gem, and Pacino's cocaine-fueled outbursts add to the intensity.
6. Carlito's Way (1993)
Pacino is sweetly sincere as an ex-con trying to go straight, with Sean Penn as his crooked lawyer. The film features intricate set-pieces and a memorable Grand Central Station shootout.
5. Scarecrow (1973)
This melancholic buddy movie pairs Pacino with Gene Hackman as two drifters. Pacino's performance as a naive sailor is touching, and the film's beauty has grown on him over time.
4. The Godfather Part II (1974)
Pacino is hypnotic as Michael Corleone, now hardened by power. His confrontations with his wife and brother are intense, though the film's prequel sections with De Niro steal the show.
3. Serpico (1973)
Pacino plays the real-life NYPD cop who refused bribes, embodying the character's self-righteous purity and eccentricity. His performance makes the audience love him despite his flaws.
2. The Godfather (1972)
Despite studio resistance, Pacino was cast as Michael Corleone. His soulful eyes and subtle corruption make the character's moral decline tragic and compelling.
1. Dog Day Afternoon (1975)
Pacino's finest performance is in Sidney Lumet's heist film. As Sonny, a bank robber funding his lover's gender affirmation surgery, he displays extraordinary range, from barnstorming crowd scenes to intimate confidences. He should have won the Oscar for this role, not 'Scent of a Woman'.
