Scarface is a legendary crime film that has captured the imaginations of audiences around the world since its release in 1983. Directed by Brian De Palma and written by Oliver Stone, the movie tells the gripping story of Tony Montana, a Cuban immigrant who rises to power in the drug trade in Miami. Starring Al Pacino in the iconic role of Tony Montana, Scarface has become a cultural phenomenon, known for its intense performances, stylish direction, and memorable lines.
In this article, we will delve into the world of Scarface and explore 33 fascinating facts about the movie. From behind-the-scenes anecdotes to trivia about the production, we will uncover intriguing details that even the most die-hard Scarface fans may not know. So, grab your popcorn and get ready to immerse yourself in the gripping world of Tony Montana and his quest for power in the criminal underworld of Miami.
Key Takeaways:
- Scarface, released in 1983, stars Al Pacino as Tony Montana, a Cuban immigrant who rises to power in the Miami drug trade. Its iconic quotes and intense themes have left a lasting impact on popular culture.
- The movie faced controversy for its graphic violence and strong language but became a box office success. Scarface’s influence extends to fashion trends, hip-hop culture, and academic analysis, solidifying its status as a cultural icon.
Scarface was released in 1983
Scarface, directed by Brian De Palma, was released in It quickly gained a cult following and has since become a classic in the crime drama genre.
The screenplay was written by Oliver Stone
The screenplay for Scarface was written by renowned filmmaker Oliver Stone. Stone infused the story with his unique style, creating an intense and gritty narrative.
Al Pacino played the iconic role of Tony Montana
Al Pacino delivered a memorable performance as Tony Montana, a Cuban immigrant who rises to power in the Miami drug trade. His portrayal of the ruthless and ambitious character is considered one of his best.
The movie is a remake of a 1932 film
Scarface is a loose remake of a 1932 film of the same name. While the original film is set in Chicago during the Prohibition era, the 1983 version takes place in Miami during the cocaine boom.
The movie faced controversy upon release
Upon its release, Scarface faced criticism for its graphic violence and strong language. Some deemed it too excessive, while others hailed it as a gritty portrayal of the drug trade.
The famous line “Say hello to my little friend!” was improvised
One of the most iconic lines from Scarface, “Say hello to my little friend!”, was improvised by Al Pacino during the filming of the climactic shootout scene.
The film’s soundtrack was composed by Giorgio Moroder
The mesmerizing soundtrack of Scarface was composed by Giorgio Moroder. The synth-heavy score perfectly captures the intense and dramatic atmosphere of the film.
Scarface was a box office success
Despite the initial controversy, Scarface was a box office success, grossing over $65 million worldwide. It has continued to generate revenue through home video sales and various re-releases.
The movie has a significant cultural impact
Scarface has left an indelible mark on popular culture. Its quotes, fashion, and memorable scenes have been referenced and parodied in numerous films, TV shows, and music.
Scarface inspired the creation of video game adaptations
The popularity of Scarface led to the development of multiple video game adaptations, allowing fans to immerse themselves in the criminal underworld depicted in the film.
Many famous actors auditioned for roles in Scarface
Before Al Pacino was cast as Tony Montana, several other actors, including Robert De Niro, Jack Nicholson, and John Travolta, auditioned for the role.
The movie’s production faced challenges
The production of Scarface faced numerous challenges, including conflicts between the director and the studio, budgetary constraints, and issues with the film’s content.
The film was initially rated “X” by the MPAA
Scarface originally received an “X” rating from the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) due to its graphic violence and intense language. It was later re-cut to secure an “R” rating.
The character of Tony Montana was inspired by real-life criminals
The character of Tony Montana was loosely inspired by real-life criminals, such as Al Capone and Pablo Escobar. Montana’s rise and fall mirror the stories of these notorious figures.
Steven Spielberg helped De Palma edit the film
Steven Spielberg, a close friend of director Brian De Palma, provided assistance in editing Scarface. His keen eye for storytelling contributed to refining the final cut.
Scarface has gained a cult following
Over the years, Scarface has gained a dedicated following, with fans analyzing its themes, celebrating its memorable lines, and appreciating the powerful performances.
The film explores themes of greed and corruption
Scarface delves into the dark underbelly of the American Dream, portraying the destructive nature of greed and the corrupting influence of power.
The movie’s ending is considered one of the most memorable
The climactic ending of Scarface is often praised as one of the most memorable in cinematic history. It leaves a lasting impact on viewers, showcasing the consequences of Tony Montana’s actions.
Scarface received mixed reviews upon release
When first released, Scarface received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised its performances and bold storytelling, while others criticized its excessive violence and lack of subtlety.
The film was nominated for three Golden Globe Awards
Scarface received three Golden Globe Award nominations for Best Actor (Al Pacino), Best Director (Brian De Palma), and Best Original Score (Giorgio Moroder).
Scarface has inspired countless hip-hop artists
The character of Tony Montana and the overall aesthetic of Scarface have heavily influenced hip-hop culture, as evidenced by the numerous references in rap lyrics and album artwork.
The movie’s popularity grew through home video releases
Scarface became even more popular through home video releases, allowing viewers to experience the film in the comfort of their own homes and share it with friends.
Scarface has been referenced in other films and TV shows
Scarface has been referenced and parodied in various films and TV shows, cementing its status as a cultural touchstone and solidifying its place in pop culture history.
Al Pacino underwent intense physical training for the role
In preparation for the role of Tony Montana, Al Pacino underwent rigorous physical training to embody the character’s larger-than-life presence and physicality.
The film’s production design captures the 1980s aesthetic
The production design of Scarface expertly captures the vibrant and extravagant style of the 1980s, with its lavish sets, flashy costumes, and opulent locations.
Scarface has been the subject of academic analysis
Scarface has been the subject of numerous academic papers and analysis, examining its themes of power, masculinity, and the American Dream.
The movie has a dedicated fan base
Scarface has a passionate and dedicated fan base that continues to celebrate the film’s legacy by organizing screenings, attending conventions, and creating fan art.
Scarface has been released in various formats
Scarface has been released in multiple formats, including DVD, Blu-ray, and digital streaming, ensuring its accessibility to fans and new viewers alike.
The film’s script went through multiple revisions
The script for Scarface underwent several revisions before reaching its final form, with Oliver Stone fine-tuning the dialogue and structure to create a compelling narrative.
Scarface has inspired fashion trends
The fashion choices of the characters in Scarface, particularly Tony Montana’s iconic all-white suit, have become iconic and have influenced fashion trends over the years.
Scarface was recognized by the American Film Institute
Scarface was included in the American Film Institute’s list of the “100 Years…100 Thrills” as one of the most thrilling films ever made.
The film showcases the dark side of the American Dream
Scarface serves as a cautionary tale, revealing the corrupting influence of the pursuit of wealth and power, and the devastating consequences it can have on individuals and society.
Scarface has become a cultural icon
Scarface’s impact on popular culture cannot be overstated. Its unforgettable characters, quotable dialogue, and powerful themes have solidified its place as a cultural icon.
Conclusion
Scarface is an iconic movie that has left a lasting impact on the world of cinema. From Al Pacino’s mesmerizing performance as Tony Montana to the gripping storyline filled with crime, power, and ambition, the movie continues to captivate audiences even decades after its release. With its memorable quotes, intense scenes, and unforgettable characters, Scarface has become a cult classic and a must-watch for any movie lover.
As we delve into the astonishing facts about Scarface, we discover the meticulous attention to detail put into crafting this masterpiece. From the luxurious sets to the elaborate costumes, every aspect of the movie was carefully planned to bring the story to life. It is fascinating to learn about the behind-the-scenes stories of the cast and crew and how their dedication and passion helped create one of the most influential movies of all time.
Scarface continues to inspire and influence filmmakers, and its impact on popular culture remains undeniable. This movie has stood the test of time, cementing its status as a cinematic masterpiece that will be celebrated for generations to come.
FAQs
1. When was Scarface released?
Scarface was released on December 9, 1983.
2. Who directed Scarface?
Scarface was directed by Brian De Palma.
3. Is Scarface based on a true story?
No, Scarface is a fictional crime drama inspired by the original 1932 film of the same name.
4. Why is Scarface so popular?
Scarface gained popularity due to its intense storyline, memorable dialogues, and Al Pacino’s iconic performance as Tony Montana.
5. What is the famous quote from Scarface?
The famous quote from Scarface is “Say hello to my little friend!
6. Are there any sequels to Scarface?
No, there are no official sequels to Scarface, but the movie has inspired various spin-offs and adaptations.
7. How long is Scarface?
The runtime of Scarface is 2 hours and 50 minutes.
8. Did Scarface receive any awards?
Although Scarface was not nominated for any major awards, it has gained immense recognition and a cult following over the years.
9. Can children watch Scarface?
No, Scarface is rated R for its graphic violence, strong language, and drug content. It is not suitable for children.
10. Where was Scarface filmed?
Scarface was primarily filmed in Miami, Florida, capturing the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Scarface's enduring legacy extends beyond cinema, influencing popular culture and sparking discussions about ambition, power, and the dark side of the American Dream. For those fascinated by the vibrant city where Tony Montana's story unfolds, explore our captivating collection of Miami facts. Dive deeper into Montana's rise as a ruthless drug lord in our expanded list of 42 Scarface facts. If you're intrigued by the world of organized crime, don't miss our 39 gripping facts about American Gangster, another iconic film that showcases the gritty reality of life in the underworld.
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