In a bold move, Blue Underground has announced the upcoming release of "Goodbye Uncle Tom" on Limited Edition 4K UHD and Blu-Ray on April 23rd. This release will offer viewers a chance to witness one of the most notorious and graphic films ever made, showcasing a haunting portrayal of America's dark history of slavery.
Originally released in 1971, "Goodbye Uncle Tom" is an Italian mondo-docudrama directed by Gualtiero Jacopetti and Franco Prosperi, the masterminds behind "Mondo Cane." Drawing from period documentation and historical accounts, the film vividly recreates the antebellum South and delves into the horrors of the slave trade.
However, the film's unflinching depiction of slavery's atrocities sparked controversy from its inception. Distributors in the US insisted on radical edits to tone down the graphic content before its release. Despite these efforts, "Goodbye Uncle Tom" continued to stir strong reactions among critics and audiences alike.
Roger Ebert famously denounced the film as "the most disgusting, contemptuous insult to decency ever to masquerade as a documentary," while Pauline Kael labeled it "the most specific and rabid incitement to race war." Despite the backlash, some praised its authenticity, with The Detroit Chronicle hailing it as "a graphic, moving, nerve-paralyzing film."
Now, over five decades since its initial release, "Goodbye Uncle Tom" returns in its original uncut Italian version, alongside its drastically different English counterpart. Both versions have been meticulously restored in 4K from their original camera negatives, promising viewers a comprehensive look at the film's controversial narrative.
In addition to the restored film, the Limited Edition 4K UHD and Blu-Ray release will include a wealth of bonus features. Viewers can expect feature-length documentaries, never-before-seen interviews with the filmmakers and composer Riz Ortolani, rare behind-the-scenes footage, trailers in both English and Italian, still galleries, a bonus CD of the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack by Riz Ortolani, and a collectible booklet.
"Goodbye Uncle Tom" remains a powerful and polarizing exploration of America's troubled past, offering viewers an opportunity to confront the harsh realities of history. Blue Underground's release promises to provide both context and insight into this deeply unsettling chapter of American history.
For enthusiasts of cinema and students of history alike, "Goodbye Uncle Tom" offers a rare and unforgettable viewing experience, shedding light on a subject matter that continues to resonate in contemporary society.
Pre-order your copy from MVD today!
GOODBYE UNCLE TOM (aka ADDIO ZIO TOM) (1971) - Restored 1080p HD Movie Trailer - Blue Underground from Blue Underground on Vimeo.