If you’re a fan of the legendary movie Scarface, you might be wondering where the iconic scenes were filmed. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the hotel where Scarface was filmed and explore its history.
So, what hotel was Scarface filmed at? The answer is the Fontainebleau Miami Beach, a luxurious resort located in South Florida that has been a favorite destination for celebrities and movie stars for decades.
In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the Fontainebleau Miami Beach, the making of Scarface, and some interesting facts about the hotel that you might not know.
The History of Fontainebleau Miami Beach
The Fontainebleau Miami Beach is a legendary hotel that has captured the hearts of many visitors over the years.
The Origins and Early Years
The hotel was first opened in 1954 and was designed by the architect Morris Lapidus. It was named after the Château de Fontainebleau, a royal palace located in France. In its early years, the Fontainebleau Miami Beach was a popular destination for celebrities, politicians, and other high-profile individuals.
It was known for its luxurious accommodations, top-notch service, and stunning ocean views. The hotel quickly became a cultural icon and was even featured in several movies and television shows, including the 1960 film “Where the Boys Are.”
The 1960s and 1970s
The Fontainebleau Miami Beach continued to be a popular destination throughout the 1960s and 1970s. During this time, it was a hotspot for nightlife and was frequented by many famous musicians and entertainers, including Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, and the Rat Pack.
Unfortunately, the hotel fell into disrepair in the late 1970s and was eventually forced to close its doors in 1978. For many years, the Fontainebleau Miami Beach remained abandoned and forgotten, a sad reminder of its former glory.
Renovation and Modernization
Thankfully, the Fontainebleau Miami Beach was given a new lease on life in the early 2000s. The hotel underwent a massive renovation and modernization project, which saw it restored to its former glory and transformed into a world-class resort.
Today, the Fontainebleau Miami Beach is once again a popular destination for travelers from all around the world. It boasts luxurious accommodations, a wide range of dining options, and plenty of amenities and activities for guests to enjoy.
It is worth mentioning that the Fontainebleau Miami Beach is also a popular filming location. It was famously featured in the 1983 film “Scarface,” starring Al Pacino.
If you are planning a trip to Miami Beach, the Fontainebleau Miami Beach is definitely worth checking out. It is a true icon of American hospitality and a must-see destination for anyone who loves luxury, history, and culture.
The Making of Scarface
Scarface, the iconic film that portrays the rise and fall of a Cuban immigrant in Miami’s drug scene, has become a cultural phenomenon since its release in 1983. One of the most memorable aspects of the film is its use of the Fontainebleau Hotel as a filming location. Here are some interesting facts about the making of Scarface at the Fontainebleau:
Why the Fontainebleau was chosen
Director Brian De Palma was looking for a location that would symbolize the American Dream, and the Fontainebleau Hotel was the perfect fit. The hotel, which opened in 1954, was a symbol of luxury and glamour in Miami Beach during its heyday. Its iconic design, which features curving lines and a white marble facade, made it the perfect backdrop for Tony Montana’s rise to power.
Furthermore, the Fontainebleau’s location on Collins Avenue made it easily accessible for the film crew, who needed to move quickly between locations. The hotel’s proximity to the ocean also provided breathtaking views for some of the film’s most memorable scenes.
Iconic scenes filmed at the hotel
The Fontainebleau Hotel is featured prominently in several scenes in Scarface. One of the most iconic scenes takes place in the hotel’s lobby, where Tony Montana (played by Al Pacino) meets with drug lord Alejandro Sosa.
Another memorable scene takes place in the hotel’s pool area, where Tony’s sister Gina (played by Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio) confronts him about his drug use. The pool area also serves as the backdrop for Tony’s assassination attempt on Sosa’s henchman, which leads to a dramatic shootout.
Behind the scenes stories
According to legend, the cast and crew of Scarface were notorious for their partying during the film’s production. The Fontainebleau Hotel was no exception – many of the film’s most memorable scenes were filmed late at night, after the hotel’s guests had gone to bed.
In fact, some of the hotel’s employees were reportedly paid to keep quiet about the film’s production, which included drug use and other illicit activities. Despite the chaos behind the scenes, the Fontainebleau Hotel remains an iconic location in the history of film.
Interesting Facts About the Fontainebleau Miami Beach
The Fontainebleau Miami Beach is a legendary hotel that has been a popular destination for celebrities and tourists alike. Here are some interesting facts about this iconic hotel:
- Celebrity guests over the years: The Fontainebleau has hosted numerous famous guests over the years, including Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, and Marilyn Monroe. More recently, celebrities like Justin Bieber and Jennifer Lopez have been spotted at the hotel.
- Unique design and architecture: The Fontainebleau is known for its unique design and architecture. The hotel was designed by famed architect Morris Lapidus and features curved walls, a signature bowtie-shaped staircase, and a grand chandelier in the main lobby. The hotel’s design has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and music videos.
- The Fontainebleau in popular culture: The Fontainebleau has been featured in numerous films and TV shows over the years. One of the most famous films to feature the hotel is Scarface, which was filmed on location at the Fontainebleau. The hotel has also been featured in TV shows like The Sopranos and Burn Notice.
It is worth mentioning that the Fontainebleau has undergone several renovations over the years to maintain its iconic status. The hotel is now part of the Hilton Hotels & Resorts portfolio and continues to attract visitors from around the world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Fontainebleau Miami Beach is not just a luxurious resort, but also a place with a rich history in the entertainment industry. As the backdrop for Scarface, the hotel has become an iconic part of pop culture and a must-visit destination for movie buffs and fans of the film alike.
Whether you’re a fan of Scarface or just looking to explore a beautiful and historic hotel, the Fontainebleau Miami Beach is definitely worth a visit.
