‘Scarface’ remake says hello to ‘Straight Outta Compton’ screenwriter

Universal Pictures’ “Scarface” remake has recruited screenwriter Jonathan Herman.

After working on the studio’s N.W.A. biopic “Straight Outta Compton,” Herman has come aboard to rewrite a new take on the gangster tale made famous by Al Pacino and Brian De Palma in 1983, The Times has confirmed.

The Hollywood Reporter first reported the news.

De Palma’s “Scarface” chronicled the rise and fall of Tony Montana (Pacino), a Cuban refugee turned drug kingpin in 1980s Miami; the film was a remake of Howard Hawks and Richard Rosson’s 1932 movie about an Italian immigrant and gangster (based on an Armitage Trail novel, which was loosely based on the life of Al Capone).

Herman will overhaul a script previously worked on by Paul Attanasio (“Donnie Brasco”) and David Ayer (“Training Day”). Chilean filmmaker Pablo Larrain is to direct the remake, which will be set in Los Angeles.

Herman seems to be making a name for himself at Universal: He’s also developing “The Demonologist” and a remake of “The Birds” for the studio.

In other “Scarface” news, veteran character actor Pepe Serna, who gave a memorable performance meeting a grisly end in the 1983 version, has a rare leading role in Dave Boyle’s film noir “Man From Reno,” opening March 27. Look for an interview with Serna from The Times’ Classic Hollywood on Sunday.

Follow @ogettell for movie news