Bernardo Bertolucci’s Little Buddha Gets a 4K Makeover for its 2025 Re-release
Kino Lorber has unveiled a fresh 4K restoration of Bernardo Bertolucci’s beloved 1993 film Little Buddha, accompanied by a new trailer and poster. The film, originally released in the summer of 1994, tells the spiritual journey of a young American boy and his exploration of Buddhist teachings, offering a profound narrative centered around reincarnation. The 4K restoration was overseen by the acclaimed Italian cinematographer Vittorio Storaro at Cinecittà Studios, with the guidance of Bertolucci himself.
Set against the backdrop of Tibetan Buddhism, Little Buddha explores the discovery of three children who are believed to be the reincarnations of a revered lama. The story follows Jesse, an American boy, who is brought to Bhutan to meet the monks and learn more about Buddhist philosophy and his possible role in the spiritual lineage. The film also stars Keanu Reeves as Siddhartha, the original Buddha, with notable performances from Chris Isaak, Bridget Fonda, and the late, renowned actors like Englert R. J. Raul and others.
The restoration of the film promises to bring a new life to Bertolucci’s stunning visuals, which were originally shot in 35mm. Despite the film’s mixed reception, with a 64% score on Rotten Tomatoes, Little Buddha has earned praise for its profound spirituality and cinematic beauty, with film critic Gene Siskel noting the film’s low-key elegance and Reeves’ notable performance.
Little Buddha originally premiered in Europe in December 1993 before arriving in the U.S. in May 1994. The film’s new 4K restoration will begin showing in select U.S. theaters starting May 9, 2025, with a wider release later in the summer. Fans and newcomers alike will have the opportunity to revisit this spiritual adventure in a whole new way.
The 4K restoration of Little Buddha marks a significant moment in Bertolucci’s legacy, as it invites audiences to revisit a cinematic classic that merges adventure with profound spiritual reflection.
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