Scarface (1983)

Detailed Summary

“Scarface,” directed by Brian De Palma and written by Oliver Stone, is a crime drama that chronicles the rise and fall of Tony Montana (Al Pacino), a Cuban refugee who becomes a powerful drug lord in Miami.

Arrival in Miami

The film opens in 1980 with Tony Montana arriving in Miami as part of the Mariel boatlift. He and his friend Manny Ribera (Steven Bauer) go to a refugee camp. They receive green cards in exchange for assassinating a former Cuban government official. Tony agrees and completes the task, securing their freedom.

Rise to Power

Tony starts working as a dishwasher in a Cuban sandwich shop but soon gets involved in drug trafficking. He impresses Miami drug lord Frank Lopez (Robert Loggia) and begins working for him. Tony’s ambition and ruthlessness quickly propel him up the ranks. He eventually meets and falls for Frank’s girlfriend, Elvira Hancock (Michelle Pfeiffer).

Takeover and Consolidation

Tony’s hunger for power leads him to betray Frank. After an attempt on his life, Tony kills Frank and takes over his empire. He marries Elvira and builds a lavish lifestyle. Tony’s sister, Gina (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio), and his mother (Miriam Colon) disapprove of his criminal activities, causing tension within the family.

Downfall

Tony’s empire begins to crumble due to his excessive drug use, paranoia, and reckless decisions. He becomes estranged from Elvira and increasingly isolated. Tony refuses to participate in a deal with a Bolivian drug cartel that involves murdering a journalist. His refusal leads to dire consequences.

Movie Ending

In the film’s climax, Tony makes his last stand in his opulent mansion as the cartel’s assassins invade. Fueled by cocaine and rage, he kills many attackers but ultimately gets overwhelmed. The film ends with the leader of the hit squad shooting Tony in the back, causing him to fall into a fountain beneath a statue that reads, “The World is Yours.”

Are There Post-Credits Scenes?

No, “Scarface” does not have any post-credits scenes. The film concludes definitively with Tony’s death.

Type of Movie

“Scarface” is a crime drama that explores themes of ambition, power, greed, and the American Dream. It is known for its intense violence, dramatic narrative, and memorable performances.

Cast

• Al Pacino as Tony Montana
• Steven Bauer as Manny Ribera
• Michelle Pfeiffer as Elvira Hancock
• Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio as Gina Montana
• Robert Loggia as Frank Lopez
• F. Murray Abraham as Omar Suarez
• Paul Shenar as Alejandro Sosa

Film Music and Composer

The score for “Scarface” was composed by Giorgio Moroder. His electronic music style perfectly complements the film’s 1980s setting, adding to its intense and dramatic atmosphere.

Filming Locations

The film was shot in several locations that added authenticity to the story:

• Miami, Florida: Various iconic locations throughout the city were used to depict Tony’s rise in the drug trade.
• Los Angeles, California: Several interior scenes and some exteriors were filmed here due to logistical reasons.
• Santa Barbara, California: The opulent mansion scenes were shot at El Fureidis, a historic estate.

These locations were crucial in creating the film’s vibrant and realistic setting.

Awards and Nominations

“Scarface” received mixed reviews upon its release but has since gained critical acclaim and a cult following. It was nominated for several awards:

• Golden Globe Nomination: Best Actor (Al Pacino)
• Golden Globe Nomination: Best Supporting Actor (Steven Bauer)
• Golden Globe Nomination: Best Original Score (Giorgio Moroder)

Behind the Scenes Insights

Interesting Incidents

• Al Pacino drew inspiration from Paul Muni’s performance in the original 1932 “Scarface”.
• The film initially received an X rating due to its graphic violence but underwent edits to secure an R rating.

Director and Actor Experiences

• Brian De Palma faced significant challenges with the film’s violent content and the MPAA’s rating system.
• Al Pacino immersed himself in the character of Tony Montana, studying Cuban culture and accents to deliver an authentic performance.

Inspirations and References

The film is inspired by the 1932 film “Scarface,” directed by Howard Hawks. Oliver Stone’s screenplay also drew on real-life events and figures in the drug trade, as well as themes of the American Dream gone awry.

Deleted Scenes and Alternate Endings

To meet rating standards, the team trimmed or altered several scenes, but they did not film any significant alternate endings. Deleted scenes include extended interactions between Tony and Elvira and more graphic depictions of violence.

Book Adaptations and Differences

“Scarface” is not a direct adaptation of a book. The original 1932 film loosely based its story on the life of Al Capone. The 1983 version updates the setting and themes to reflect the cocaine epidemic of the 1980s.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• The Chainsaw Scene: One of the film’s most infamous and intense scenes, highlighting the brutality of the drug trade.
• Tony’s Takeover of Frank’s Empire: Marking Tony’s ruthless ambition and rise to power.
• The Final Stand: Tony’s last stand in his mansion is a thrilling and tragic climax.

Iconic Quotes

• “Say hello to my little friend!” – Tony Montana
• “I always tell the truth. Even when I lie.” – Tony Montana
• “The world is yours.” – The sign in Tony’s mansion

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• The “The World is Yours” statue in Tony’s mansion is a recurring symbol of his ambition and ultimate downfall.
• Many elements in Tony’s mansion, including the décor and statues, symbolize his wealth and power but also his isolation and paranoia.

Trivia

• The film uses the word “fuck” 207 times.
• Pacino improvised the line, “You’re all a bunch of fucking assholes!” when they threw Tony out of the nightclub.

Why Watch?

“Scarface” is a seminal film in the crime genre, offering a gritty and unflinching look at the rise and fall of a criminal empire. Al Pacino’s performance as Tony Montana is iconic, and the film’s portrayal of the excesses and dangers of the drug trade remains impactful. The movie’s dramatic storytelling, memorable dialogue, and cultural influence make it a must-watch.

Director’s Other Movies

• Carrie (1976)
• Dressed to Kill (1980)
• Blow Out (1981)
• The Untouchables (1987)
• Mission: Impossible (1996)

Recommended Movies for Fans

• The Godfather (1972): Another iconic crime drama exploring the rise and fall of a mafia family.
• Goodfellas (1990): Directed by Martin Scorsese, offering a detailed look at the life of a gangster.
• Carlito’s Way (1993): Also directed by Brian De Palma and starring Al Pacino, this film follows a former convict trying to go straight.

“Scarface” remains a powerful exploration of ambition and the dark side of the American Dream, with unforgettable performances and a gripping narrative that continues to resonate with audiences.