Release: 1983-12-09
Runtime: 2h 49m (169 minutes)
After getting a green card in exchange for assassinating a Cuban government official, Tony Montana stakes a claim on the drug trade in Miami. Viciously murdering anyone who stands in his way, Tony eventually becomes the biggest drug lord in the state, controlling nearly all the cocaine that comes through Miami. But increased pressure from the police, wars with Colombian drug cartels and his own drug-fueled paranoia serve to fuel the flames of his eventual downfall.
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Genres: Drama, Action, Crime
Cast: Michelle Pfeiffer, Al Pacino, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, more
Michelle Pfeiffer
as Elvira
Al Pacino
as Tony Montana
Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio
as Gina
Steven Bauer
as Manny Ray
F. Murray Abraham
as Omar
Charles Durning
as Immigration Officer (voice) (uncredited)
Gregg Henry
as Charles Goodson (uncredited)
Harris Yulin
as Bernstein
Gregory Cruz
as Shooter #2
Dennis Franz
as Immigration Officer (voice) (uncredited)
Robert Loggia
as Frank Lopez
Paul Shenar
as Alejandro Sosa
After getting a green card in exchange for assassinating a Cuban government official, Tony Montana stakes a claim on the drug trade in Miami. Viciously murdering anyone who stands in his way, Tony eventually becomes the biggest drug lord in the state, controlling nearly all the cocaine that comes through Miami. But increased pressure from the police, wars with Colombian drug cartels and his own drug-fueled paranoia serve to fuel the flames of his eventual downfall.
The world is yours.
Scarface is a 1983 American crime drama film directed by Brian De Palma and written by Oliver Stone, featuring a powerful performance by Al Pacino. This film is a remake of the 1932 original, which itself was based on the 1930 novel by Armitage Trail. The story follows Tony Montana (played by Pacino), a Cuban refugee who arrives in Miami during the Mariel boatlift and rises to become a powerful drug lord.
The supporting cast includes Steven Bauer, Michelle Pfeiffer, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Robert Loggia, and F. Murray Abraham.
The plot begins in 1980 when Tony Montana arrives in Miami with his friend Manny Ribera during the Mariel boatlift. They are granted green cards by local drug lord Frank Lopez in exchange for a violent favor. As Tony grows tired of menial work, he quickly becomes involved in the drug trade, leading to a violent rise and fall as he seeks power and wealth.
Scarface premiered on December 1, 1983, in New York City and was released widely on December 9, 1983. Despite grossing $66 million worldwide, the film received a mixed reception due to its graphic violence and profanity. Critics initially panned it, with some Cuban exiles expressing concern over its portrayal of Cubans as criminals. However, over time, the film has gained a cult following and is now regarded as one of the greatest gangster films in cinema history.
The movie's influence extends beyond film, impacting popular culture significantly, especially in hip hop culture. The famous line "Say hello to my little friend!" has become iconic, quoted in various media and referenced by numerous artists. Notably, Scarface has been acknowledged by the American Film Institute in several film lists, celebrating its lasting impact on the genre.
With its bold storytelling and memorable characters, Scarface continues to resonate with audiences, showcasing the relentless pursuit of the American Dream, albeit through a grim lens. Its exploration of ambition, excess, and consequences remains relevant, ensuring its place in cinematic history.
