Vertigo Releasing is set to captivate audiences across the UK and Ireland with the release of CALIGULA: THE ULTIMATE CUT, a full 4K reconstruction of the notorious 1980 classic. This eagerly awaited recut will debut in select cinemas and on digital platforms on August 9th.
CALIGULA: THE ULTIMATE CUT boasts an impressive cast, including Malcolm McDowell (A CLOCKWORK ORANGE), Academy Award-winners Helen Mirren (THE QUEEN) and Sir John Gielgud (ARTHUR), and Peter O’Toole (LAWRENCE OF ARABIA). This new version promises to bring fresh life to their iconic performances with never-before-seen footage.
Honoring the Original Vision
Art historian Thomas Negovan has meticulously produced and recut this version, 44 years after the film's original release. Negovan's reconstruction honors the original vision of director Tinto Brass and screenwriter Gore Vidal, who famously removed their credits after producer Bob Guccione's controversial edits altered their story. Utilizing alternate takes and camera angles from over ninety hours of footage, this restoration showcases the film's complete narrative for the first time.
A New Take on a Controversial Classic
The story follows the young, wary Caligula (McDowell), who, after the murder of his entire family, eliminates his devious adoptive grandfather (O'Toole) and seizes control of the declining Roman Empire. As Caligula descends into a spiral of depravity, destruction, and madness, viewers will see expanded performances from McDowell and Mirren, with Mirren's role significantly enhanced in the film's third act.
Premiering at Cannes
CALIGULA: THE ULTIMATE CUT premiered at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival in their Classics strand, receiving acclaim for its extensive restoration and faithful representation of Brass and Vidal's original intent.
Restoration Excellence
The restoration of CALIGULA: THE ULTIMATE CUT was produced by Sunshine Mesa Films and overseen by Thomas Negovan. Technorganica handled the image and sound restoration, utilizing original camera negatives and audio to deliver a pristine viewing experience.
Don’t Miss Out
Mark your calendars for August 9th, as CALIGULA: THE ULTIMATE CUT arrives in select cinemas and on digital platforms. This is a must-see for fans of classic cinema and those eager to experience a pivotal piece of film history in its intended form.
