Antoine Fuqua Circling Scarface Remake At Universal

Scarface, the iconic rags-to-filthy-riches story, is headed back to the silver screen for a third time and on this occasion, it is Training Day director Antoine Fuqua that’s in line to direct.

Deadline has the scoop, confirming that Fuqua has opened negotiations with Universal to potentially offer a fresh spin on another cinema classic, given the director will soon rally The Magnificent Seven to defend Rose Creek from those pesky bandits.

Last we reported on the mooted redo, Jonathan Herman (Straight Outta Compton) was the writer attached to the script, working from previous drafts submitted by Paul Attanasio and Suicide Squad director David Ayer.

Pitched as a reimagining of the core immigrant story, it’s understood Universal’s reboot will primarily take place in contemporary Los Angeles. Meanwhile, Marty Bregman, producer on Brian de Palma’s celebrated drugs thriller, is on board to produce with Marc Shmuger, Scott Stuber and Dylan Clark. Both Pablo Larraín and Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them helmer David Yates had previously been in contention to take the reins on Scarface, though with Fuqua on the verge of committing, Universal is poised to fast-track this one.

No word yet on when Scarface will lens, but Fuqua’s appointment is the first tangible sign of life in almost twelve months. His latest, The Magnificent Seven, will serve as the Gala Opening Night Film of next month’s Toronto Film Festival.