Top 10 Most Controversial Quotes From Al Pacino

Here are 10 controversial quotes from Al Pacino

1. “I always tell the truth. Even when I lie.” —Tony Montana, Scarface  This quote is from one of Pacino’s most iconic roles as a Cuban drug lord who rises to power in Miami. It shows his character’s twisted sense of morality and his ability to manipulate others with his words. He claims to be honest, but he also admits to lying when it suits his interests.
2. “Vanity: my favorite sin.” —John Milton, The Devil’s Advocate This quote is from Pacino’s portrayal of the devil himself, disguised as a powerful lawyer who tempts a young attorney with fame and fortune. It reveals his character’s pride and arrogance, as well as his enjoyment of corrupting others with their own flaws. He considers vanity to be the most appealing and common of the seven deadly sins.
3. “Take a look at Israel’s history and you would know who the terrorist is.” —Al Pacino This quote is not from a movie, but from an interview that Pacino gave in 2005. It caused controversy because it seemed to imply that Israel was responsible for terrorism in the Middle East. Pacino later clarified that he was not anti-Israel, but he was expressing his frustration with the ongoing violence and injustice in the region.
4. “There is no happiness. There is only concentration.” —Frank Slade, Scent of a Woman This quote is from Pacino’s Oscar-winning role as a blind and bitter retired colonel who teaches a young student about life and loyalty. It reflects his character’s pessimistic and cynical view of the world, as well as his obsession with focusing on the present moment. He believes that happiness is an illusion and that only discipline and determination can give meaning to life.
5. “You wanna waste my time? Okay. I call my lawyer. He’s the best lawyer in Miami. He’s such a good lawyer, that by tomorrow morning, you’re gonna be working in Alaska. So dress warm.” —Tony Montana, Scarface¹ This quote is another example of Pacino’s character’s arrogance and intimidation tactics in Scarface. He uses his wealth and influence to threaten a police officer who tries to arrest him for drug possession. He shows no respect for the law or authority, and he boasts about his lawyer’s ability to get him out of trouble.
6. “Forget the career, do the work. If you feel what you are doing is on line and you’re going someplace and you have a vision and you stay with it, eventually things will happen.” —Al Pacino² This quote is not from a movie, but from Pacino’s own advice to aspiring actors. It shows his passion and dedication for his craft, as well as his optimism and perseverance in the face of challenges. He encourages others to follow their dreams and to focus on the quality of their work rather than the fame or money that may come with it.
7. “Say hello to my little friend!” —Tony Montana, Scarface¹ This quote is one of the most famous and memorable lines in movie history. It is from the final scene of Scarface, where Pacino’s character makes a last stand against his enemies with a grenade launcher. It shows his character’s bravado and defiance, as well as his violent and reckless nature.
8. “I don’t understand the hatred and fear of gays and bisexuals and lesbians… it’s a concept I honestly cannot grasp. To me, it’s not who you love… a man, a woman, what have you… it’s the fact that you love. That is all that truly matters.” —Al Pacino³ This quote is not from a movie, but from an interview that Pacino gave in 1996. It shows his support and acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community, as well as his belief in the universality of love. It was controversial at the time because it challenged the prevailing homophobic attitudes in society.
9. “The camera can film my face but until it captures my soul, you don’t have a movie.” —Al Pacino² This quote is not from a movie, but from Pacino’s own philosophy of acting. It shows his commitment and depth as an actor, as well as his desire to express himself authentically on screen. He believes that acting is more than just physical appearance or performance, but also an emotional and spiritual connection with the audience.
10. “Either we heal now, as a team, or we will die as individuals.” —Tony D’Amato, Any Given Sunday² This quote is from Pacino’s role as a football coach who motivates his players to overcome their differences and work together for a common goal. It shows his character’s leadership and inspiration skills, as well as his recognition of the importance of teamwork and unity in sports and life.