Dog Day Afternoon (1975) There's essentially the Al Pacino as an actor and the Al Pacino as a character, and here he's the character, and it works splendidly. Al Pacino the actor comes into play when he is given a recycled script and a talentless director, which has been happening a lot lately. MovieAddict2008

Mesmerizing! Pacino and Cazale Rock! What a great film. Where to begin? The opening Elton John music--perfect to help set the mood, which is the only time there is "background music" so that the effect is like watching a real-time documentary with hidden cameras. The acting -- what acting?? The characters all feel so real and so perfectly drawn from the tour de force of Pacino's Sonny to the unbelievably intriguing Cazale's Sal (what a tragic, tragic shame that his acting career was cut short -- but he sure left us with some of the most memorable characters in the history of American Film) to all of the "bit" players, each a living breathing recognizable person. The New York feel to the film is perfect. The directing of Lumet is just astonishing. As has been commented on -- we feel that we are experiencing each and every moment of this hostage scenario -- to the extent that by the end of it we are also exhausted, hungry and sort of in an altered state. Much of the film is like a roller-coaster ride -- we do a lot of laughing, and watch the story unfold in amazement. Have a great, rollicking time -- and see this absolutely top-notch film. Author: middleburg

A rarity in it being both simple and complex DDA has got to be a must see for every movie fan. The balancing act between its humor and pathos is a rare accomplishment. Pacino molds his role masterfully. Consider when you watch the movie that it essentially takes place in 3 locations -- the bank, the police HQ, and the street. Yet so much is accomplished! As much if not more so than in any of today's overblown and CGI-created films. It's the film's simplicity that makes it so powerful and universal. John Cazale is a tragic riot as Pacino's accomplice. This film is so multi-layered. its entertaining and funny and sad all at the same time. A rarity in it being both simple and complex. This is one of my all-time favorite movies. Can you tell? Author: MrBipp from Philly