Universal Pictures is currently developing a new version of the hit 1932 film ‘Scarface’ and its popular 1983 remake starring Al Pacino, Deadline is reporting. The studio is meeting writers to pen a script for a new version that will be produced by Marc Shmuger and his Global Producer banner with Martin Bregman, who worked on the Pacino film.

The Universal film won’t be a remake or sequel; it will feature the common elements of the first two movies. It will feature an immigrant who makes his way in the criminal establishment in search of a twisted version of the American dream. He becomes a kingpin through a campaign of ruthlessness and violent ambition.

Universal is currently keeping Tony’s background a secret, but his ethnicity and geography were important in the first two films. The original ‘Scarface’ starred Paul Muni as Tony, as he took over Chicago. In the Brian De Palma-directed remake, Michelle Pfeiffer, Steven Bauer and Mary Elizabeth Mastrontonio starred alongside Pacino, who appeared as Tony, a Cuban who became consumed by the cocaine trade in 1980s Miami.

Pacino’s version was met with criticism upon its release, as the original, which was directed by Howard Hawks and produced by Howard Hughes, was considered a classic. But the remake became a classic in its own right, and has sold over 10 million DVDs worldwide.

Written by: Karen Benardello