PACINO’S WAY

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Legendary actor Al Pacino will be honored by American Cinematheque on Oct 21.

Every year the American Cinematheque rolls out the red carpet for an amazing, incredible, iconic, world famous Hollywood legend and this year is no exception. On Oct. 21 the honors go to one of the most celebrated actors of our time-Al Pacino. With more than 40 films to his credit, Pacino is one of the world’s most enduring actors. In something that looks akin to the Academy Awards, Al’s pals will gather at the Beverly Hilton for a fabulous fe^te and career retrospective. For the most part, Pacino was a complete unknown until Francis Ford Coppola gave him his big break by casting him in the role of Michael Corleone in “The Godfather.” Although Corleone remains his signature role, he went on to do more than 40 films including classics like “Serpico,” “Sea of Love,” “Frankie and Johnny,” “Carlito’s Way,” “Glengarry Glen Ross,” “The Insider” and “Donnie Brasco.”

Although Pacino has appeared in lighter fare like “Dick Tracy” and won an Oscar for his role as Lt. Colonel Frank Slade in “The Scent of a Woman,” he usually plays the role of the raspy-voiced, tough-talking heavy.

Pacino joins a prestigious list of previous AM honorees-a first rate roster that includes Ron Howard, Martin Scorsese and Sean Connery, as well as locals Mel Gibson, Steven Spielberg and Bruce Willis.

RING-A-DING-DING

Hollywood heartthrob George Clooney is looking to turn back the hands of time with his flashy new Vegas venture. George, who’s going into the project with Malibu pal Rande Gerber, says he wants to recreate an atmosphere worthy of the Rat Pack and his late Aunt Rosemary Clooney.

“I grew up watching Rosemary sing at those places,” recalls the multitasking writer/director/actor/ entrepreneur. “We have this romantic notion of putting on a suit, getting dressed up, going down to the casino, having dinner, having a big band playing, pushing the tables back and dancing.”

Hmmmm and the reason for blowing up the swaggering Sinatra shrine called the Sands was … ? Oh yes, to create fake Venice. Oh well, perhaps Clooney and company can in some small way make up for the loss. His Las Ramblas resort community project is already creating a huge buzz and will also include plenty of party pads, elegant eateries and swanky shops. But most of all George says he wants to keep the old time Vegas spirit alive, adding, ” I found some people crazy enough to let us do it.” Crazy? Like a fox. It’s a good bet this joint will be jumping. The Las Ramblas Project is scheduled to open in 2007.