Cimino

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The first biography of filmmaker Michael Cimino offers a reevaluation of the infamous film that derailed his career. Known for the powerful Vietnam movie The Deer Hunter, which won Best Picture in 1979, Cimino is also infamous for Heaven’s Gate, a film that became a notorious bomb. Originally budgeted at $11 million, the western spiraled out of control in production, ultimately costing over $40 million. Upon its release, Heaven’s Gate was a critical and commercial failure, leading to the collapse of United Artists and signaling the end of Hollywood’s auteur era. Author Charles Elton provides a fresh perspective on the making and fallout of Heaven’s Gate, challenging the narrative established by Steven Bach, an executive involved with the film who criticized Cimino in his own book. Elton’s biography presents a detailed account of Cimino's life, drawing from extensive interviews with peers, collaborators, and critics, many of whom have remained silent until now. This work unravels the myths and complexities surrounding Cimino, illuminating his extraordinary career and the intricate interplay of art and ambition in Hollywood. It is a compelling exploration of the costs of creativity, both financial and personal.