URGENT UPDATE: Apocalypse Now, the iconic Vietnam War film directed by Francis Ford Coppola, is experiencing a dramatic resurgence in streaming popularity. On December 4, it ranked as the third-most-watched movie on Apple TV, just behind the recently released Tron: Ares.
This surge comes on the heels of Coppola’s latest venture, Megalopolis, which he self-financed by selling part of his wine estate. Despite the high stakes, that project has not performed well at the box office. However, Apocalypse Now—originally released in 1979—is capturing new audiences and rekindling interest among long-time fans.
The film, which famously endured a tumultuous production process that ballooned its budget to over $30 million, ultimately grossed more than $150 million worldwide. It has been praised as one of the greatest films ever made, earning eight Oscar nominations and winning the prestigious Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival.
Coppola’s relentless dedication to his craft is evident in Apocalypse Now, which was inspired by Joseph Conrad’s literary work, “Heart of Darkness.” The film’s impact on cinema has been profound, and it currently holds a “certified fresh” rating of 90% on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics lauding it as a “voyage to hell” and a testament to Coppola’s visionary style.
Coppola has revisited Apocalypse Now multiple times, releasing new cuts in 2001 and 2019. The original version remains a staple of film history and is available for streaming now. The renewed interest coincides with the release of Megadoc, a behind-the-scenes documentary that explores Coppola’s latest project.
As audiences flock back to this cinematic masterpiece, it serves as a reminder of Coppola’s legacy and the enduring power of Apocalypse Now in the cultural landscape.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops!
