Ancient Rome remained a favourite setting in Hollywood films, and this summer one of the most famous stories comes back to theaters. “Caligula: The Ultimate Cut” is scheduled for a theatrical release on the 16th of August and now fans can watch this legendary film in an entirely new way.
Many people are familiar with the name “Caligula” due to its infamy and controversy. The film, consisting of elements of both erotica and historical drama, which was released in 1980, was directed by Tinto Brass but was heavily edited by Bob Guccione, the owner of Penthouse magazine who insisted on adding scenes to the film that were not in the script by Gore Vidal. The end product was a picture that its director denied, its cast spurned, and was the most costly independently produced movie ever. And, yet—because of or in spite of it, “Caligula” attained cult status.
The journey to “Caligula: The Ultimate Cut” started when an art historian named Thomas Negovan found almost a hundred hours of unseen footage in the Penthouse archive. This new version excludes Guccione's cuts and includes new scenes scripted by Vidal for the film adaptation of his novel. Dave McKean has provided a new prologue to this great story and Troy Sterling Nies has also provided a new score to the story.
The lead actor Malcolm McDowell, who portrayed the Emperor himself, also shared his amazement and content with the reconstruction. He pointed out that this version is the first to capture the earnestness of purpose of all the talents involved, it enables viewers to get a proper sense of Helen Mirren, Peter O'Toole and John Gielgud among others.
The new poster by renowned artist Bill Sienkiewicz seeks to undo the wrong that be fell the movie at its release. Sienkiewicz, who has worked on graphic novels ‘The Sandman' and ‘Moon Knight,' was happy for the chance to participate in this sort of cinematic revival.
Drafthouse Films, the company that has been aggressively supporting independent productions, bought the rights to release the movie in theaters across the United States on August 16 and in streaming services and 4K UHD Blu-ray format. In this version, new interviews with the players and the crew are added, which give more information about the stormy production of the picture.
“Caligula: The Ultimate Cut” is more than a restored film; it's a cultural milestone, offering a glimpse into the artistic vision that was almost lost to history. Don't miss the chance to see this iconic film in all its uncut glory.
Check out the trailer and new poster for “Caligula: The Ultimate Cut” below and prepare to be transported back to the decadence and drama of ancient Rome.
