Carlito's Way the intention of getting a Carlito film made. First thing on the list was to get a script written that would portray Carlito Brigante's world and provide a suitable showcase for Pacino's talents. David Koepp had just finished writing the script for Bregman's forthcoming "The Shadow" when producer Michael S. Bregman suggested him to write the script for "Carlito's Way". The decision came that the screenplay would be based on the second novel "After Hours". Carlito at this stage would match closer with Pacino's age. Although based primarily on the second novel, the title "Carlito's Way" remained, mainly because of
Carlito's Way: Rise to Power the entire Bottolotta Family. Carlito, Rocco and Earl fly to the islands with Earl for his wedding. Earl retires, and Carlito reunites with Leticia, retiring temporarily. The character of Hollywood Nicky played by Sean Combs is based on real New York City drug lord Nicky Barnes. In the film, the character Earl played by Mario Van Peebles makes a reference to Governor Rockefeller setting some new drug laws into effect. This is in reference to the Rockefeller drug laws which are tough mandatory sentencing laws for drug dealers. Three actors appear in both Carlito's Way films: Luis Guzmán plays Pachanga