Scarface
dir. Brian De Palma · 1983
The pursuit of power and wealth can lead to self-destruction and isolation.
"Scarface" is a visceral exploration of ambition and excess, painting a portrait of Tony Montana whose rise to power in Miami's drug trade is as exhilarating as it is tragic. With its striking visual contrasts and relentless pace, it offers a gritty meditation on the moral decay hidden beneath the glimmering facade of the American Dream.
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.
Full synopsisspoilers
Tony Montana manages to leave Cuba during the Mariel exodus of 1980. He finds himself in a Florida refugee camp but his friend Manny has a way out for them: undertake a contract killing and arrangements will be made to get a green card. He's soon working for drug dealer Frank Lopez and shows his mettle when a deal with Colombian drug dealers goes bad. He also brings a new level of violence to Miami.
Tony is protective of his younger sister but his mother knows what he does for a living and disowns him. Tony is impatient and wants it all however, including Frank's empire and his mistress Elvira Hancock. Once at the top however, Tony's outrageous actions make him a target and everything comes crumbling down.
