The Battle of Brazil: A Video History
The Battle of Brazil: A Video History

Movie spotlight

The Battle of Brazil: A Video History

1996
Movie
55 min
English

This documentary, based on author Jack Mathew's book "The Battle of Brazil," reunites the players involved in the struggle over the film's U.S. release. This take on one of the noisiest, most unusual, and most instructive behind-the-scenes controversies in Hollywood history features Mathews, director Terry Gilliam, producer Arnon Milchan, and studio executives Frank Price, Marvin Antonowsky, Bob Rehme, and Sidney Sheinberg.

Insights

IMDb7.1/10
Director: Charles BandGenres: Documentary, Film History

Plot Summary

This documentary explores the tumultuous production and controversial release of Terry Gilliam's dystopian masterpiece, 'Brazil'. It delves into the creative clashes between Gilliam and Universal Pictures, highlighting the studio's attempts to re-edit the film and Gilliam's subsequent fight to release his intended version. Featuring interviews with key figures involved, the film provides a comprehensive look at the challenges faced in bringing this unique vision to the screen.

Critical Reception

As a documentary, 'The Battle of Brazil: A Video History' is primarily appreciated by fans of 'Brazil' and filmmaking enthusiasts for its in-depth look at a notorious production battle. Critics generally acknowledge its thoroughness in documenting the conflict, though some may find its perspective inherently biased towards Gilliam's viewpoint.

What Reviewers Say

  • Offers an essential look into the creative struggles behind a cinematic landmark.

  • Provides valuable insight for anyone interested in the business of filmmaking and directorial vision.

  • Details the intense battle to preserve Terry Gilliam's original cut of 'Brazil'.

Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for this documentary is not readily available, but it is generally sought after by fans of the film 'Brazil' for its behind-the-scenes content.

Fun Fact

The documentary includes archival footage and interviews that were originally intended for a different, more comprehensive documentary about the making of 'Brazil' that was never fully completed.

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