Drafthouse Films has recently acquired the highly anticipated Caligula: The Ultimate Cut, a 4K Ultra HD reconstruction of the infamous Tinto Brass film. This updated version of the film made its debut at the Cannes Film Festival in 2023, showcasing never-before-seen footage and alternate takes that are sure to thrill audiences. With a theatrical release scheduled across North America in August 2024, followed by streaming and 4K UHD Blu-ray options, fans of the original can finally experience this cinematic masterpiece in a whole new light.
A Troubled Past
Initially released in 1980, Caligula was met with mixed reviews due to its tumultuous journey to the big screen. Penned by renowned writer Gore Vidal and featuring a star-studded cast including Malcolm McDowell, Dame Helen Mirren, Peter O’Toole, and Sir John Gielgud, the film faced numerous challenges during production. Unfortunately, Penthouse founder Bob Guccione’s interference led to significant alterations, including the addition of explicit scenes of sex and violence. This caused uproar among the cast and crew, with Vidal disassociating himself from the project entirely, leaving a stain on the film’s legacy.
Caligula: The Ultimate Cut seeks to rectify the mistakes of the past by presenting a more authentic and faithful version of the original vision. With the inclusion of a prologue to showcase Vidal’s missing scenes, as well as a new wraparound score by composer Troy Sterling Nies, this reconstruction is poised to reignite interest in the once-controversial film. Despite initial skepticism from director Tinto Brass, actor Malcolm McDowell has praised the effort, signaling a newfound appreciation for the project’s evolution.
The North American distribution deal for Caligula: The Ultimate Cut was brokered by Nick Savva, CEO of Drafthouse Films, in collaboration with Josh Braun and Dan Braun of Submarine on behalf of the filmmakers. Savva expressed his excitement about bringing this unique piece of cinema history back to the forefront, urging audiences to brace themselves for an epic three-hour journey unlike any other. As the release date approaches, anticipation is growing for the unveiling of this reimagined classic, promising an unforgettable viewing experience for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.