Brian De Palma has created an atmospheric thriller, which has become a cinema classic.

Al Pacino plays notorious Puerto Rican heroin dealer Carlito Brigante, who is released from jail on a technicality after doing five years on a 30-year rap.

His release was all down to the manipulative tactics of his crooked, coke-head lawyer, played by Sean Penn.

Carlito is determined to stay out of trouble and earn enough money to start a business in the Bahamas. He also hopes to rekindle the romance that died when he went inside.

In 1975 Manhattan it's not so easy to keep your nose clean when you're known as one of the greatest gang lords of the era.

Carlito soon finds himself immersed in the same underworld games, which are born out of old-world codes of honour and misguided loyalties but inevitably end in violence and destruction.

John Leguizamo plays one of the younger gang members, who spend his life on a mission to impress his elders and achieve the status that will allow him to be involved in the big jobs.

The pulsing soundtrack makes the nightclub environment feel vibrant and exciting. The cinematography is elaborate and the suspense is incredible.

One of the most memorable scenes is a thrilling chase through Grand Central Station.