Caligula, considered one of the most notorious films in history, is set to receive a major theatrical re-release. The new version will be significantly edited to remove the adult content that caused controversy in the past.
Caligula, which was released in 1979, has gained a notorious reputation as one of the most infamous films in history.
Despite being edited, producer and Penthouse Magazine founder Bob Guccione requested reshoots for Caligula that included explicit, hardcore sex and orgies. As a result, the film gained a reputation as mainstream pornography rather than a serious historical epic and was subsequently banned in multiple countries.
After nearly 50 years since its initial release, Caligula is set to return to theaters with a new and improved version. Titled Caligula: the Ultimate Cut, this version aims to highlight the exceptional performances of the talented actors of its time.
The recently released version of the film is a sincere effort to revive a project that was previously disavowed by its own creators. The refurbishment was undertaken by art historian Thomas Negovan, resulting in what can essentially be considered a brand new film.
During the post-filming reshoots, a vast amount of footage was captured, adding up to approximately 90 hours. For The Ultimate Cut, editor Negovan opted to incorporate alternate takes and deleted scenes, resulting in a largely different version from the original release.
This news has taken fans by surprise as well. Users of the Movies subreddit are expressing shock at the revelation of previously unseen footage. One fan even exclaimed, “I own a 4 hour cut of Caligula on DVD…there’s even more footage?”While another joked that the film will have “more versions than Blade
The Ultimate Cut will not completely eliminate all the provocative content, as Caligula was intended to defy conventional limits. Nevertheless, the film was also intended to be regarded with gravity. The updated version aims to redeem its reputation and revive the intended prestige of the movie by adhering more closely to Vidal’s initial screenplay.
So far, initial word of mouth has been positive. Malcolm McDowell, the star of the film, even took to Instagram to share his praise, stating that after 47 years, one of his best performances has finally been revealed.
The film Caligula: The Ultimate Cut is currently showing in theatres, and it will also be available for purchase on home video starting September 17.
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