Serpico Returns: Al Pacino’s Iconic Crime Thriller Hits Paramount+

Few films from the 1970s capture the raw, unfiltered energy of urban crime dramas quite like Serpico. Released in December 1973, this gripping story set the standard for the genre, immersing viewers in the shadowy world of New York City’s police force. With unforgettable performances from stars like Al Pacino, the film stands shoulder to shoulder with other classics of the era, such as Taxi Driver and Mean Streets. Now, more than five decades after its debut, Serpico is making waves again as it arrives on Paramount+ for a new generation to experience.

Pacino’s Breakthrough Role and the Real Story Behind Serpico

Directed by Sidney Lumet, Serpico follows the true story of Frank Serpico, a young NYPD officer who risks everything to expose widespread corruption within the department. Pacino’s portrayal of the idealistic cop, who refuses to accept bribes and stands alone against a corrupt system, earned him his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. The film, which also features John Randolph, Tony Roberts, Jack Kehoe, Barbara Eda-Young, and Cornelia Sharpe, was a box office hit, grossing $29 million worldwide on a modest $3 million budget.

While the movie takes some creative liberties, it remains a faithful adaptation of Serpico’s real-life battle against police misconduct. The official synopsis describes the story:

"Frank Serpico (Pacino) is an idealistic New York City cop who refuses to take bribes, unlike the rest of the force. His actions get Frank shunned by the other officers, and often placed in dangerous situations by his partners. When his superiors ignore Frank's accusations of corruption, he decides to go public with the allegations. Although this causes the Knapp Commission to investigate his claims, Frank has also placed a target on himself."

Reluctance and Transformation: Pacino’s Journey to Becoming Serpico

It’s hard to imagine anyone but Pacino in the role of Frank Serpico, but the actor was initially hesitant to take on the part. He doubted his ability to truly capture the essence of the real man. Everything changed after he met Frank Serpico in person. Pacino later recalled in a 2019 interview with GQ:

"Before I met the person that I was supposed to do, I didn't want to play him. It was an odd thing. Not because he was negative or positive, but I just felt I couldn't be him. But when I met Frank, I knew there was something I could paint there. There was something that I could sort of serve. He had an earring, long hair, and was strange-looking. But he had a look in his eye that I thought, there it is. I got to know him very well and hung with him."

Frank Serpico himself praised Pacino’s performance, saying the actor "played me better than I played myself." That endorsement speaks volumes about the authenticity and depth Pacino brought to the screen.

Serpico’s Lasting Impact and New Streaming Home

For those who have yet to experience this landmark film, Serpico is now available to stream on Paramount+ as of January 1, 2026. Its arrival on the platform offers both longtime fans and newcomers a chance to witness a defining moment in American cinema. The film’s exploration of integrity, courage, and the cost of standing up for what’s right continues to resonate, making it as relevant today as it was over fifty years ago.