Scarface (1983 film)

Scarface is a 1983 American crime drama film directed by Brian De Palma and written by Oliver Stone.

Scarface is a 1983 American crime drama film directed by Brian De Palma and written by Oliver Stone. It stars Al Pacino as Cuban refugee Tony Montana, who rises to become a powerful drug lord in Miami.

What it is

The film follows Tony Montana, a Cuban refugee who arrives in Miami during the Mariel boatlift and builds a cocaine empire. Based on the 1932 film of the same name (which was adapted from Armitage Trail’s novel), it was directed by Brian De Palma from a screenplay by Oliver Stone. It premiered in New York City on December 1, 1983, and was released in the United States on December 9, 1983.

Why it matters

Scarface has become one of the best-known gangster films of the 1980s and an enduring pop-culture reference point. Its portrayal of ambition, excess, and self-destruction has influenced later crime films and media. In Canada, it has been widely distributed and discussed as part of mainstream North American film culture, frequently referenced in Canadian media.

Key details

Initial critical reaction was mixed to negative, largely because of its violence and depictions of stereotypes. Over time, it gained a large cult following and is now commonly treated as a landmark gangster film. The film grossed $66 million at the box office and stars Al Pacino, Steven Bauer, Michelle Pfeiffer, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, and Robert Loggia.