BREAKING: The iconic Vietnam War film, Apocalypse Now, directed by Francis Ford Coppola, is experiencing an unexpected resurgence in streaming popularity. Latest data from FlixPatrol shows the film ranked as the third-most-watched movie on Apple TV on December 4, overshadowing newer releases like the recent bomb Tron: Ares.
This sudden spike in viewership is particularly significant given the film’s tumultuous production history, which saw its budget balloon to over $30 million due to various setbacks. Released in 1979, Apocalypse Now went on to gross more than $150 million worldwide, solidifying its status as a cinematic masterpiece.
The film is not just popular; it has earned eight Oscar nominations and was awarded the prestigious Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made, boasting a 90% “certified fresh” score on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising it as a “voyage to hell where the journey is more satisfying than the destination.”
Coppola’s dedication to his art is evident not only in Apocalypse Now but also through his recent endeavors, including the ambitious project Megalopolis, which he self-financed by selling part of his wine estate. Although Megalopolis has struggled at the box office, it highlights Coppola’s relentless commitment to his craft.
Fans of Apocalypse Now can now revisit this cinematic tour de force from the comfort of their homes. The film features a stellar cast, including Martin Sheen, Robert Duvall, Dennis Hopper, and Marlon Brando. Coppola has re-edited the film multiple times, with notable versions released in 2001 and 2019. Each iteration has contributed to the film’s enduring legacy in the film industry.
In a related development, a behind-the-scenes documentary titled Megadoc has also been released, following Coppola during the making of Megalopolis. This documentary has received positive reviews, contrasting sharply with the mixed response to the film itself.
As Apocalypse Now continues to draw new audiences, it serves as a reminder of the power of cinema to resonate across generations. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and the ongoing impact of this classic film.
