15 Best Al Pacino Movies, Ranked

Al Pacino’s raw energy and commanding presence have made him a legend in cinema. From intense crime dramas to subtle character studies, his ability to embody complex characters is unmatched.

His career spans decades, delivering iconic lines and unforgettable performances that still resonate. Below, I’ve ranked his 15 best movies, exploring what makes each one stand out and why Pacino shines in them.

15. The Godfather Part III (1990)

Pacino returns as Michael Corleone, now older and seeking redemption. His weary, tragic performance adds depth to this divisive sequel, despite its uneven pacing.

Francis Ford Coppola’s saga wraps up with Pacino’s soulful intensity at its core. He makes Michael’s guilt and struggle painfully real.

14. Scent of a Woman (1992)

As blind, retired Colonel Frank Slade, Pacino delivers a bold, Oscar-winning performance. His fiery ‘Hoo-ah!’ and tender moments with Chris O’Donnell elevate this coming-of-age drama.

The film’s mix of humor and heart shines through Pacino’s commanding presence. He makes Slade’s larger-than-life personality both intimidating and lovable.

13. Any Given Sunday (1999)

Pacino plays Tony D’Amato, a veteran football coach facing team turmoil. His intense, motivational speeches, especially the iconic ‘inch by inch,’ electrify this sports drama.

Oliver Stone’s chaotic, high-energy film is grounded by Pacino’s commanding presence. He makes Tony a flawed but inspiring leader you root for.

12. Glengarry Glen Ross (1992)

As Ricky Roma, a slick real estate salesman, Pacino delivers a sharp, magnetic performance. His fast-talking charm steals scenes in this intense ensemble drama.

The film’s biting dialogue and cutthroat world shine through Pacino’s cunning energy. He makes Roma a standout in a cast of heavyweights like Jack Lemmon.

11. Insomnia (2002)

Pacino plays Will Dormer, a sleep-deprived detective in a cat-and-mouse game with Robin Williams’ killer. His haunted, unraveling performance anchors this tense thriller.

Christopher Nolan’s Alaskan-set mystery is gripping, with Pacino’s weary intensity driving the moral ambiguity. He brings depth to a cop on the edge.

10. The Devil’s Advocate (1997)

Pacino plays John Milton, a devilish law firm boss, with gleeful menace. His over-the-top charisma steals the show in this supernatural legal thriller alongside Keanu Reeves.

The film’s mix of horror and drama leans on Pacino’s larger-than-life performance. He makes Milton a seductive, terrifying force you can’t look away from.

9. Donnie Brasco (1997)

As Lefty Ruggiero, a low-level mobster bonding with an undercover FBI agent, Pacino delivers a layered, tragic performance. His weary loyalty grounds this gritty crime drama.

The film’s tense, authentic dive into the mafia world thrives on Pacino’s chemistry with Johnny Depp. He makes Lefty’s quiet desperation unforgettable.

8. Carlito’s Way (1993)

Pacino stars as Carlito Brigante, a former drug lord trying to go straight. His intense, soulful performance carries this stylish crime saga with a tragic edge.

Brian De Palma’s direction and Pacino’s conflicted energy make the film a gripping tale of redemption. His portrayal of a man trapped by his past hits hard.

7. The Insider (1999)

As journalist Lowell Bergman, Pacino brings fiery passion to this real-life drama about a tobacco industry whistleblower. His relentless energy fuels the film’s gripping narrative.

Michael Mann’s taut storytelling and Pacino’s dynamic performance opposite Russell Crowe make this a standout. He embodies the fight for truth with conviction.

6. Serpico (1973)

Pacino stars as Frank Serpico, a real-life cop exposing NYPD corruption. His raw, righteous performance captures the toll of standing alone against a broken system.

Sidney Lumet’s gritty drama is powered by Pacino’s fierce conviction. He makes Serpico’s moral struggle feel urgent and deeply personal.

5. Heat (1995)

As Vincent Hanna, a relentless LAPD detective, Pacino faces off with Robert De Niro’s thief in this epic crime thriller. His electric intensity fuels their iconic diner scene.

Michael Mann’s masterful direction and Pacino’s fiery performance make this a genre classic. He brings raw passion to Hanna’s obsessive pursuit.

4. Dog Day Afternoon (1975)

Pacino plays Sonny Wortzik, a desperate man robbing a bank to fund his partner’s surgery. His frantic, heartfelt performance drives this tense, real-life crime drama.

Sidney Lumet’s film blends humor, chaos, and tragedy, with Pacino’s raw energy at its heart. His ‘Attica!’ chant became a cultural touchstone.

3. Scarface (1983)

As Tony Montana, a Cuban immigrant turned drug lord, Pacino creates an iconic, explosive character. His larger-than-life bravado and ‘say hello to my little friend’ line define this cult classic.

Brian De Palma’s violent, stylish epic thrives on Pacino’s unhinged energy. He makes Tony’s rise and fall a wild, unforgettable ride.

2. The Godfather (1972)

As Michael Corleone, a reluctant heir to a mafia empire, Pacino delivers a chilling transformation. His quiet intensity turns Michael from an outsider to a ruthless leader.

Francis Ford Coppola’s masterpiece is anchored by Pacino’s subtle, powerful performance. He makes Michael’s descent into darkness haunting and unforgettable.

1. The Godfather Part II (1974)

Pacino reprises Michael Corleone in this epic sequel, deepening his tragic arc. His cold, commanding presence as a man consumed by power is a career-defining performance.

Coppola’s sprawling saga of family and betrayal is elevated by Pacino’s masterful portrayal. He makes Michael’s isolation and ruthlessness a cinematic triumph.

Which Al Pacino movie tops your list, or did I miss one of his classics? Drop your pick in the comments!