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Scarface 1983

“He loved the American Dream. With a vengeance.”

★ 8.2/10 · 13,179 votes R ActionCrimeDrama Released
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Quick answer

What is Scarface?

Scarface is a 1983 American epic crime drama film directed by Brian De Palma and written by Oliver Stone. It stars Al Pacino as Antonio "Tony" Montana, a Cuban immigrant who arrives in Miami during the Mariel Boatlift and quickly rises through the ranks of the drug trade.

Type
Film
Year
1983
Status
Released
Runtime
170 minutes
Release date
Dec 9, 1983
Original language
EN
Origin
United States of America
Studios
Universal Pictures, Martin Bregman Productions
Budget
$25,000,000
Revenue
$66,023,329
Genres
Action, Crime, Drama
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Availability by region

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Overview

Scarface is a 1983 American epic crime drama film directed by Brian De Palma and written by Oliver Stone. It stars Al Pacino as Antonio "Tony" Montana, a Cuban immigrant who arrives in Miami during the Mariel Boatlift and quickly rises through the ranks of the drug trade. After securing a green card by assassinating a Cuban government official, Tony establishes himself as a powerful figure in Miami's cocaine trade, eliminating rivals through violent means. As his criminal empire expands, he faces mounting pressure from law enforcement, conflicts with Colombian cartels, and personal struggles with drug addiction and paranoia. These factors contribute to his eventual downfall. The film is a loose remake of the 1932 Howard Hawks gangster film of the same name and is based on the novel by Armitage Trail. It features an ensemble cast including Michelle Pfeiffer, Steven Bauer, and Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio.

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Should you watch it?

“A determined immigrant rises to power as a ruthless drug lord in 1980s Miami.”

Reasons to watch
  • compelling rise-to-power narrative
  • intense character-driven conflict
Keep in mind
  • depicts extreme violence
  • features heavy drug use

Watch it if you enjoy crime dramas about the rapid ascent and decline of powerful criminals.

This film contains intense violence and frequent depictions of drug use throughout the narrative.

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Cast

Frequently asked questions

What is the main character's goal?

Tony Montana aims to stake a claim on the drug trade in Miami.

How does Tony Montana enter the United States?

He receives a green card in exchange for assassinating a Cuban government official.

What challenges does Tony face?

He deals with pressure from the police, wars with Colombian drug cartels, and his own paranoia.

What is the setting of the film?

The story takes place in Miami.

What is the nature of Tony's business?

He controls nearly all the cocaine that enters Miami.