Universal’s “Scarface” Remake Finds A New Writer
Hollywood is very often criticized for its influx of film reboots and remakes. More than often these films fail to reach the highs of their predecessors, but that does not mean that success cannot be found within this field. Recent retellings like 2010’s True Grit and 2016’s Jungle Book found this rare critical and financial success. It is this same jackpot that Universal Pictures plans to dig up with their upcoming Scarface remake. Many consider this risky not only because the 1983 film is largely considered a classic, but also because it was already a remake of the 1932 original. Universal is surely aware of these concerns- which is why they are putting great effort into assembling the right team.
Deadline previously reported that Antoine Fuqua returned to talks for directing the project. The Training Day and Magnificent Seven director is obviously a great choice with his history with outlaw tales. The script seems to be the biggest hurdle to tackle for the studio. Previous drafts have been written by David Ayer, Jonathan Herman, and even the Coen brothers. The site is now reporting that Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer has been brought on for rewrites. Springing out of Queretaro, Mexico, Dunnet-Alcocer might be best known for writing and directing the Mexican short Contrapelo. He also just wrote Sony’s English remake of the Mexican hit Miss Bala. He is clearly a strong brown voice with experience fit for this project.
The new film will be set in Los Angeles, unlike the past two versions (Miami and Chicago). Retelling old stories for a new age requires new voices in order to find success. The new age sports a film industry more diverse than 1983 and 1932. Scarface may not be a story that you do not think you want to see again, but you will think twice when you find out that strong people of color like Fuqua and Dunnet-Alcocer are behind it. Excited about this new reimagining? Sound off in the comments below!
Source: Deadline
