Talking about emblematic scenes in international cinema refers to many, many; but this time we take one that, surely, you will remember if you are a lover of the Rioplatense rhythm. It’s the tango from “Scent of a Woman,” that sequence in which Lieutenant Colonel Frank Slade, masterfully portrayed by the famous and great actor Al Pacino, invites Donna (actress Gabriella Anwar) to dance in the middle of a restaurant, despite being visually impaired. There, the unique and masterful connection between the couple and Carlos Gardel’s tango is present in a unique way, a few elements that made this sequence one of those that are difficult to get out of your head.
“Scent of a Woman” is a 1992 film, a remake of the Italian film of the same name from 1974, which, in turn, is based on the novel by Giovanni Arpino. Starring Chris O’Donnell and Al Pacino, the film takes us into the life of a student who, to earn some money, accepts the job of “caretaker” for a retired older man. Directed by Martin Brest, this film was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director; while Pacino took home his only Oscar thanks to his superb portrayal of Lieutenant Frank, defeating, among others, Denzel Washington, Stephen Rea, Clint Eastwood, and Robert Downey Jr.
The tango danced by Al Pacino in “Scent of a Woman” is “Por una cabeza,” one of the most popular tangos composed by Carlos Gardel with lyrics by Alfredo Le Pera. This iconic scene in the movie has become memorable and significantly contributed to the popularity of tango in international cinema.
If you haven’t seen it, it’s a good time to do so. I’m sure it will make you want to travel to Buenos Aires and even, why not… take some Tango lessons.
