Michelle Pfeiffer Shares the Dramatic Story Behind Her Iconic Role in Scarface
In a revealing discussion on the SmartLess podcast, actress Michelle Pfeiffer opens up about a pivotal moment that convinced Al Pacino she was the ideal choice for the role of Elvira in the classic film Scarface, released in 1983. But here's where it gets surprising—contrary to popular belief, Pacino initially had doubts about her suitability for the part.
During her conversation with hosts Will Arnett, Jason Bateman, and Sean Hayes, Pfeiffer reflected on the extensive audition journey she endured for director Brian De Palma's notable film. While De Palma was enthusiastic about casting her, the iconic actor Pacino was not on the same page initially. "Al will admit this," Pfeiffer stated candidly, revealing, "he didn’t really want me for the role."
The actress, known for her performance in The Age of Innocence, recalled her first meeting with De Palma and the casting team where she felt she truly excelled. Yet, as the arduous audition process unfolded over two months, she found herself becoming increasingly anxious, with her performances deteriorating to the point where she felt she was underperforming significantly. “By the end, I’m bad,” she honestly shared.
Pfeiffer acknowledged that she didn’t hold any grudges against Pacino for his initial reservations; after all, "He just was like, ‘[She’s] bad.’" Eventually, De Palma broke the news to her: "You know, doll, it’s just not gonna work out." Understandably, Pfeiffer’s reaction was a mix of disappointment and relief: "I’m like, ‘I know, man. I’m sorry.’" She appreciated De Palma's desire to see her in the role but was ready to move on from the daunting audition experience.
Surprisingly, after a month had passed, she received a call about a screen test opportunity, which she approached with a nonchalant attitude as she believed she had no chance of securing the role. "I don’t even give a shit, 'cause I know I’m not getting this part," she recalled.
However, her screen test, notably featuring the intense restaurant scene where her character explodes with emotion, turned out to be a revelation. It was, in her own words, "my best work of the film." But the most memorable twist came from a bloody mishap during the audition, which made a lasting impression on Pacino. Pfeiffer recounted, "I swipe the table, and dishes and glasses shatter, leading to chaos. There’s blood everywhere. They all rush to check on me, but I didn’t injure myself—I accidentally cut Al!" As she humorously shared, she had "cut him in the finger or something" during the commotion.
Initially, Pfeiffer worried that this incident would cost her the role. Yet unexpectedly, she sensed that this gripping moment made Pacino reconsider her abilities: "[But] actually I think that was the day [Pacino] was like, ‘Yeah, yeah. I think, yeah, she’s not bad.'"
Scarface tells the thrilling story of Tony Montana, portrayed by Pacino, a tenacious Cuban immigrant who rises to the top as Miami’s premier drug lord but ultimately succumbs to his own vices. Elvira, Tony's complex and drug-addicted wife, becomes an essential part of the narrative, previously being involved with his boss, Frank Lopez, played by Robert Loggia.
What do you think of Pfeiffer's journey to landing such an iconic role? Do you believe initial doubts about an actor's ability can influence a film's casting decisions, or do talent and performance shine through regardless? Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments—let’s discuss!
