A Remake of “Scarface” is in Development: An Overworked Pop Culture Trend?

Baby Boomers are holding their heads in cinematic shame as the announcement of a "Scarface" remake looms in the headlines. The world is used to the systematic butchering of its favorite movies. At this point, it's only a matter of which classic movies will be spun into "new & improved" reproductions. Apparently, the popular Al Pacino film has made it onto this industrious list and according to Huffington Post, is slated to be reworked into a new "rags to riches, immigrant mobster story." As such, the possibilities seem virtually endless, which may or may not be a great thing. In any event, this monumental film's remake will certainly have some effects on the current state of pop culture.

The biggest challenge this movie presents is its cast. How in the world could anyone replace Al Pacino in the character imitated by millions? It's not just about a look, but rather-a collection of nuances that will require a newcomer to really do his homework. The feat would require the same dedication that French actor Gaspard Ulliel employed to nail a young Hannibal Lecter's affect in "Hannibal Rising." The scenario isn't exactly the same, of course. But you get the idea. Frank (Robert Loggia), Manny (Steven Bauer), and Elvira (Michelle Pfeiffer) also have some substantial shoes to fill. Casting an actress like AnnaLynne McCord as the beautiful, yet aloof Elvira might not be a bad idea. But casting in general will be quite tricky.

The imprint of "Scarface" in pop culture is large enough that The New Generation could easily latch on. But let's face it: The 25-and-under crowd was too young to be really influenced by the hype created by this movie during the 1980s. "Scarface" certainly isn't the first violent, drug-related film to stir up audiences. But its epic impression on young Hollywood is simply too alluring to deny.

Tony Montana's entry to America is depicted with a very real historical event: the Mariel boatlift from Cuba to the United States in 1980. Baby Boomers will certainly recall the mass exodus from Cuba in which thousands of hardened criminals made it to American shores. This event in these days of yore is the perfect backdrop for dozens of future films. A remake might spawn a whole new interest in this little piece of American history---especially since Miami is a hot spot for entertainment.

The Ripple Effect?

It's doubtful that a "Scarface" remake will incite a clothing craze big enough to create an impact. This is a movie that represents a time when cocaine became as much a part of pop culture as gold lame pants, Corvettes, and feathered bangs. A remake would certainly support the world's current affinity for 1980s trends. But for millions, Scarface isn't just a nifty name for a cool drug kingpin. It is a veritable stamp on Hollywood's long list of "untouchable" classics.

Many might say that the ripple effect began long ago; redoing films is perhaps one of the biggest entertainment trends of all time. Are we really running out of story ideas? Or have filmmakers become too lazy to invent new stories reflecting the human condition? As directors continue to trudge through the crates filled with classic films, the answers to these questions seem like no-brainers. What's next? A remake of the entire Godfather series? (Don't say that one too loudly. Hollywood just might be listening.)

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