15 Fascinating Facts About Scarface

Introduction:

Scarface, the iconic film directed by Brian De Palma and written by Oliver Stone, has captivated audiences since its release in 1983. Starring Al Pacino as the infamous Cuban immigrant turned drug lord, Tony Montana, the movie has become a cult classic and a defining piece of pop culture. In this article, we will dive into 15 fascinating facts about Scarface that you may not have known. From behind-the-scenes drama to interesting trivia, get ready to explore the world of Tony Montana and his rise to power in Miami’s criminal underworld.

Fact 1: Al Pacino Almost Turned Down the Role

Despite the critical acclaim and iconic status of his performance as Tony Montana, Al Pacino initially turned down the role in Scarface. It was only after his then-girlfriend persuaded him to reconsider that he ultimately accepted the part. The rest, as they say, is history.

Fact 2: The Film Faced Controversy and Criticism

Scarface was met with controversy and criticism upon its release due to its graphic violence, profanity, and themes of drug trafficking. Despite this, the film has endured as a classic and remains a favorite among fans of the crime genre.

Fact 3: Tony Montana’s Infamous Line Was Improvised

One of the most iconic lines in Scarface, “Say hello to my little friend!”, was actually improvised by Al Pacino during filming. The line has since become synonymous with the character and is often quoted by fans of the movie.

Fact 4: Scarface Was a Box Office Success

Despite its initial mixed reviews, Scarface was a box office success, grossing over $45 million in the United States and Canada alone. The film has since become a beloved classic and a frequent subject of homage in popular culture.

Fact 5: The Mansion Used in the Film Is Real

The lavish mansion that serves as Tony Montana’s home in Scarface is a real location in Santa Barbara, California. Known as “El Fureidis,” the stunning estate has since become a popular tourist attraction for fans of the movie.

Fact 6: Steven Spielberg Was Originally Considered to Direct

Before Brian De Palma took on the role of director for Scarface, Steven Spielberg was considered for the job. Spielberg ultimately passed on the project, citing its violent content as a reason for his decision.

Fact 7: The Film Has Been Referenced in Countless Songs and TV Shows

Scarface’s influence extends far beyond the world of film, with the iconic movie being referenced in numerous songs, TV shows, and other forms of media. Artists such as Jay-Z, Nas, and Eminem have all paid homage to the film in their music.

Fact 8: Al Pacino Spent Months Working on His Cuban Accent

In preparation for his role as Tony Montana, Al Pacino spent months working on perfecting his Cuban accent. The effort paid off, as his performance is often lauded as one of the best of his career.

Fact 9: Michelle Pfeiffer Almost Quit Acting After Scarface

Michelle Pfeiffer, who played Elvira Hancock in Scarface, reportedly considered quitting acting after her experience on the film. The intense nature of the role and the subject matter of the movie took a toll on the actress, but she ultimately persevered and went on to have a successful career in Hollywood.

Fact 10: Scarface Has Been Remade Several Times

Since its release in 1983, Scarface has been remade several times in various forms and languages. The enduring popularity of the film continues to inspire filmmakers and artists around the world.

Fact 11: Brian De Palma Was Not the First Choice to Direct

Brian De Palma was not the first choice to direct Scarface. Initially, the job was offered to Sidney Lumet, who turned it down. Lumet’s loss turned out to be De Palma’s gain, as he went on to create a film that would become a classic of the crime genre.

Fact 12: The Film Has a Dedicated Fan Base

Scarface has a dedicated fan base that continues to grow with each passing year. The film’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and the impact it has had on popular culture.

Fact 13: The Script Went Through Several Revisions

The script for Scarface went through several revisions before its final version was approved for filming. The collaboration between Oliver Stone, Brian De Palma, and Al Pacino resulted in a screenplay that is now considered a classic of the crime genre.

Fact 14: Scarface Was Not a Critical Success Upon Its Initial Release

Despite its eventual status as a classic, Scarface was not a critical success upon its initial release. Many critics panned the film for its graphic violence, profanity, and depiction of drug trafficking. However, over time, the movie found its audience and has since been embraced as a classic of the crime genre.

Fact 15: Scarface Has Inspired Numerous Parodies and Spoofs

Scarface’s impact on popular culture is undeniable, with the film inspiring numerous parodies and spoofs over the years. From Saturday Night Live sketches to comedy routines, Scarface’s influence continues to be felt in a variety of mediums.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Scarface remains a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences with its gripping story, memorable characters, and iconic performances. From Al Pacino’s legendary portrayal of Tony Montana to the film’s enduring influence on popular culture, Scarface has solidified its place in cinematic history. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the world of Tony Montana, there’s no denying the impact that Scarface has had on the world of film and beyond. Say hello to my little friend!