‘Bringing Out the Dead’: Martin Scorsese and Nicolas Cage’s Collaboration Arrives in 4K For The First Time

‘Bringing Out the Dead’ marks the sole collaboration between Italian-American cinema icons Martin Scorsese and Nicolas Cage. Previously, the film was only available on standard-definition DVD, but thanks to Paramount Home Entertainment, it’s getting a major upgrade. To celebrate its 25th anniversary, the 1999 movie will be released on 4K Blu-ray on 17th September 2024.

High-Def Digest reveals that this new release features a fresh 4K transfer, remastered from the original camera negative with the involvement of Scorsese, cinematographer Robert Richardson, and editor Thelma Schoonmaker. The set includes exclusive interviews with the cast and crew, featuring Scorsese, Richardson, screenwriter Paul Schrader, and stars like Cage, John Goodman, Patricia Arquette, Ving Rhames, Tom Sizemore, and Marc Anthony.

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Additionally, it contains the original theatrical trailers. These interviews offer behind-the-scenes stories, insights from real-life paramedics, and Scorsese’s inspiration for the film.

The movie follows New York City paramedic Frank Pierce (played by Cage) as he battles burnout, depression, and hallucinations of a homeless girl he couldn’t save. The narrative spans several intense nights as Frank partners with different colleagues: the laid-back Larry (Goodman), the devout Marcus (Rhames), and the aggressive Tom (Sizemore). 

He also forms a connection with Mary (Arquette), a recovering drug addict and the daughter of a patient. Throughout, Frank struggles with his perceived inability to help others while recognizing the need to save himself.

‘Bringing Out the Dead’ is adapted from Joe Connelly’s bestselling novel and represents the fourth and final collaboration between Scorsese and Schrader, who also worked together on ‘Taxi Driver,’ ‘Raging Bull,’ and ‘The Last Temptation of Christ.’ Although the film earned only $16 million against a $32 million budget and received mixed reviews upon release, it has since gained appreciation as an underrated gem in Scorsese’s body of work. Nicolas Cage regards it as one of his best performances.

–Farheen Ali