In a day and age where men don’t know how to act like men, we looked to none other than Hollywood for answers. Enter man’s man Al Pacino, a cinematic icon who has played all types of characters (and very well). Here is LIB’s list of the top ten lessons learned from the timeless Al Pacino.:
You never open your mouth until you know what the shot is. Glengarry Glen Ross (1992).
Lesson learned.
Before offering any advice make sure you know the entire story. Coming
into a situation with half a story can be detrimental.
- You are in no position to disagree. I’ve got a loaded .45; you got pimples. Scent of a Woman (1992).
Lesson learned.
When you have the upper hand drop the hammer. Remember in any negotiation you either have leverage or you have none.
The reality is that we do not wash
our own laundry - it just gets dirtier.
Serpico (1973)
Lesson learned.
If you ignore a problem it doesn’t
go away. It just gets bigger. Deal with
whatever it is in a timely manner and it
will be over.
- There’s a lot you don’t know about me. Cruising (1980)
Lesson learned.
People aren’t always what they seem. First impressions are important but not everything. Even after you think you know the person, keep your eyes open.
Freedom, baby... is never having to say you're sorry. Devil’s Advocate (1997)
Lesson learned.
Own your actions and you will never have to say “sorry.” Now that is true freedom!
- It’s not personal, Sonny. It’s strictly business. Godfather (1972)
Lesson learned.
Yes this has become one of the most used lines, so much so that it is now almost common knowledge, but it applies as much today as when it was uttered in 1972. Separate the two. It makes things less cluttered.
Favor gonna kill you faster than a bullet. Carlito’s Way (1993)
Lesson learned.
There are no favors in life. There are actions. If you don’t want to do something… don’t do it! Being coerced into an action under the guise of a “favor” can lead to resentment or lack of quality.
- I’ve learned that time does not heal the wound. It will, though, in its most merciful way, blunt the edge ever so slightly. 88 Minutes (2007)
Lesson learned
Time heals all wound… Nonsense! Some clichés work. Others don’t. Do not be afraid to call it as you see it. It’s all in perspective.
You're gonna walk out on me? You don't walk out on me. I walk out on you. Donnie Brasco (1997)
Always call the shots whenever possible. Gain and use the upper hand.
Honorable mentions.
On Any Given Sunday You’re Gonna Win or You’re Gonna Lose. The Point Is, Can You Win or Lose Like a Man? Any given Sunday (1999)
Keep your friends close but your enemies closer. Godfather (1974)
What’s wrong with this guy? What do you mean non-union, like what? A bank teller? You know how much a bank teller makes a week? Not much. A hundred and fifteen to start, right? Now are you going to live on that? I got a wife and a couple of kids, how am I going to live on that? What do you make a week? Dog Day Afternoon (1975)
Number 1 Al Pacino line
Me. I always tell the truth. Even when I lie. Scarface (1983)
The story is always in perception.
