Is Scarface Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Scarface is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies.
It features a runtime of 93 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Scarface Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1932, Scarface emerges as a significant entry in the Crime, Action, Drama domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of In 1920s Chicago, Italian immigrant and notorious thug, Antonio 'Tony' Camonte, aka Scarface, shoots his way to the top of the mobs while trying to protect his sister from the criminal life. Unlike standard genre fare, Scarface attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a refreshing take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Crime is often anchored by its ensemble, and Scarface features a noteworthy lineup led by Paul Muni . Supported by the likes of Ann Dvorak and Karen Morley , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Scarface (1932) is overwhelmingly positive. With an audience rating of 7.4/10, it stands as a mandatory watch for any serious cinema lover.
Scarface Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Scarface is a Crime, Action, Drama film that delves into the criminal underworld with gritty realism and moral complexity. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Story Breakdown
The film presents its narrative with careful attention to pacing and character development. In 1920s Chicago, Italian immigrant and notorious thug, Antonio 'Tony' Camonte, aka Scarface, shoots his way to the top of the mobs while trying to protect his sister from the criminal life. The story unfolds naturally, allowing viewers to become invested in the outcome while maintaining engagement throughout.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The film establishes its world and central conflict efficiently in the opening act.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. The arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The climax brings together the narrative threads, providing resolution while staying true to the established tone.
Scarface Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Scarface resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to crime resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the crime themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Scarface reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Scarface Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Scarface incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a crime, action, drama film, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement.
Historical Context
The film balances historical fidelity with cinematic storytelling. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
The production demonstrates respect for its source material, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Scarface adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Scarface?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Crime films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Scarface Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $800.0K |
| Worldwide Gross | $600.0K |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Scarface Budget
The estimated production budget for Scarface is $800.0K. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
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Full Cast & Crew of Scarface
- Paul Muni – Antonio 'Tony' Camonte
- Ann Dvorak – Francesca 'Cesca' Camonte
- Karen Morley – Poppy
- Osgood Perkins – John 'Johnny' Lovo
- C. Henry Gordon – Insp. Ben Guarino
Top Highlights
Paul MuniAntonio 'Tony' Camonte
Ann DvorakFrancesca 'Cesca' Camonte
Karen MorleyPoppy
Osgood PerkinsJohn 'Johnny' Lovo
C. Henry GordonInsp. Ben Guarino
George RaftGuino Rinaldo
Vince BarnettAngelo
Boris KarloffGaffney
Purnell PrattMr. Garston, publisher
Tully MarshallManaging Editor
Where to Watch Scarface Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Google Play Movies
YouTubeParents Guide & Age Rating
Scarface has not been officially rated yet. Based on its genres (Crime, Action, Drama), it contains violence, action sequences, mature themes.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 7.4/10, and global collection metrics, Scarface stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1932 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Scarface movie hit or flop?
Scarface is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 7.4/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Crime, Action, Drama movies.
Is Scarface worth watching?
Yes, Scarface is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Crime, Action, Drama cinema.
Where can I watch Scarface online?
Scarface may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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How Scarface Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Scarface
Odd to see Howard Hawks on this genre, but he directs this workman-like gangster effort steadily, managing to convey some semblance of the environment of fear and violence without actually turning it into a visual gory bloodbath. Paul Muni may have had top billing, but for me George Raft steals this - charisma a-plenty. Boris Karloff appears oddly miscast, but Dvorak and Morley play the roles of the molls quite effectively and Osgood Perkins plays the cowardly bully Lovo well. Holds up remarkably after almost 90 years!
movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
