Scarface (1932 film)

Scarface, also known as Scarface: Shame of the Nation, is a 1932 American pre-Code gangster film directed by Howard Hawks and produced by Howard Hughes. The film is loosely based on the 1929 novel Scarface by Armitage Trail, which in turn was inspired by the life of Al Capone.

The film stars Paul Muni as Antonio "Tony" Camonte, a ruthless and ambitious Italian immigrant who rises through the ranks of organized crime in Chicago. Ann Dvorak plays his sister, Cesca, and George Raft appears as Camonte's coin-flipping right-hand man, Guino Rinaldo.

Scarface is notable for its graphic violence, cynical tone, and exploration of themes such as incestuous desire and the corrupting influence of power. Its portrayal of gangsters as both terrifying and strangely charismatic figures was considered controversial at the time of its release.

Due to its depiction of violence, the film faced significant censorship challenges. The Hays Office, responsible for enforcing the Motion Picture Production Code, demanded numerous cuts and alterations. Several alternative endings were filmed before the film was finally released.

Despite the censorship issues, Scarface was a commercial success and received critical acclaim for its direction, performances, and innovative camerawork. It is now considered a classic of the gangster film genre and a significant work of American cinema. It was remade in 1983 by Brian De Palma, starring Al Pacino.