Scarface

Scarface

Year: 1932

Runtime: 93 min

Language: English

Directors: Howard Hawks, Richard Rosson

ActionDramaThrillerCrimeFilm-Noir

Driven by ambition and a thirst for power, Tony Montana rises from a Cuban refugee to become a dominant figure in Miami’s criminal underworld. After establishing himself with a key operation for the US government, he ruthlessly eliminates rivals and accumulates immense wealth. However, escalating conflicts with law enforcement, dangerous cartel wars, and his own increasingly paranoid nature lead to a tragic and violent downfall.

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Timeline & Setting – Scarface (1932)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Scarface (1932). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film reflects the turbulent atmosphere of the 1920s during the Prohibition era, where organized crime flourished as gangs fought for dominance in illegal activities. This period was marked by significant social change, economic instability, and a growing public disillusionment with law enforcement, as depicted through the rise and fall of the central character. The consequences of unchecked ambition and violence are poignantly illustrated throughout the narrative.

Location

Chicago, 22nd Street, South Side, North Side

The movie is set in the gritty urban landscape of Chicago, particularly in the notorious neighborhoods of the South Side and North Side. Known for its vibrant nightlife and gang activity during the early 20th century, these areas serve as a backdrop for power struggles and violent confrontations among rival crime factions. Chicago's lawless environment plays a crucial role in shaping the characters and the storyline of the film.

🌆 City 🌃 Nightlife 🔫 Crime

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:06

Main Characters – Scarface (1932)

Meet the key characters of Scarface (1932), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Tony Camonte (Paul Muni)

Tony Camonte is a bold and ambitious gangster driven by his desire for power and control. He is charismatic yet ruthless, often finding himself blinded by his aspirations, leading to moral decay and personal loss. Tony's relationships showcase his complex nature, oscillating between charm and brutality as he navigates the crime-ridden landscape.

👤 Protagonist 💪 Ambitious 🔫 Gangster

Cesca Camonte (Ann Dvorak)

Cesca Camonte is Tony's spirited and independent sister, often caught in the wake of her brother's violent lifestyle. She embodies the struggle for autonomy amidst familial expectations and the chaotic world around her. Her character serves as a poignant reflection of the personal costs of crime and ambition.

👩‍👧 Family ❤️ Love ⚠️ Vulnerable

Johnny Lovo (Osgood Perkins)

Johnny Lovo is a suave yet calculating gangster who seeks to control the South Side with Tony. His interactions with Tony reveal the dynamics of power, ambition, and the ever-present risk of betrayal in the criminal world. Lovo serves as both an ally and a rival, depicting the treacherous landscape of gang alliances.

🎩 Gangster 💼 Businessman ⚔️ Rival

Gaffney (Boris Karloff)

Gaffney is a cunning British crime lord whose intentions are to eliminate Tony amid the escalating gang violence. He embodies the external threats that challenge Tony's ambitions and the harsh realities of the criminal underworld. Gaffney's character highlights the cutthroat nature of gang rivalries and the pursuit of power.

👨‍⚖️ Antagonist ⚔️ Schemer 💀 Dangerous

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:06

Major Themes – Scarface (1932)

Explore the central themes of Scarface (1932), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚔️ Ambition

Ambition drives the protagonist, Tony Camonte, leading him to pursue ruthless methods in his quest for power. His desire to dominate the crime scene fuels both his rise and eventual downfall, highlighting the double-edged nature of ambition. The clash between personal desires and moral boundaries is a recurring element that shapes the story.

💔 Family

Family dynamics play a significant role in the film, particularly in Tony's relationship with his sister, Cesca. Their interactions reveal the strain that crime and ambition impose on familial bonds. The tragic outcomes of their choices emphasize the costs associated with criminal lifestyles and the emotional turmoil that ensues.

🩸 Violence

Violence is a central theme, portrayed through the gang wars and personal conflicts that escalate throughout the film. The brutal nature of crime is depicted vividly, showcasing its impact on individuals and families alike. This relentless cycle of violence serves as a stark reminder of the harsh realities of the criminal underworld.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:06

Unlock the Full Story of Scarface

Don't stop at just watching — explore Scarface in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Scarface is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Scarface Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Scarface, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Scarface Summary

Scarface Timeline

Track the full timeline of Scarface with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Scarface Timeline

More About Scarface

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Scarface: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Scarface

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