With the news of Michael Cimino’s passing, many people are going to revisit the award-winning director’s films. Best known for directing the classic “The Deer Hunter,” Michael Cimino also is responsible for one of the most controversial films in Hollywood history, “Heaven’s Gate.” The 1980 Western had one of the most tumultuous productions in modern times, and fortunately for movie fans, there’s a great documentary available to watch now that documents the production and its effect on the film industry that’s still felt to this day.
READ MORE: R.I.P. ‘The Deer Hunter’ & ‘Heaven’s Gate’ Director Michael Cimino
Narrated by Willem Dafoe (who had a small role in the film), “Final Cut: The Making and Unmaking of Heaven’s Gate” tells the story of the production, release, and lasting impact of Cimino’s follow-up to “The Deer Hunter.” The film was supposed to be his epic Western that would tell the story of living in late-1800s Wyoming, but the budget skyrocketed, and filming was hit with one delay after another as Cimino pursued his exacting vision. Starring Kris Kristofferson, Christopher Walken, and Jeff Bridges, “Heaven’s Gate” was released in 1980 and quickly became one of the biggest bombs in box-office history, and perhaps led to the downfall of United Artists, one of Hollywood’s most successful studios.
Released 25 years after “Heaven’s Gate,” the doc features many of those involved in the film speaking frankly about what worked and failed with the project. Kristofferson actually compares the production to the Iraq War. Hyperbole or not, ‘Final Cut’ is worth a watch as another way to remember the life and career of one of the most interesting directors of our time.