Cult Classics Announces The Worldwide 4K Debut Of Mickey Rourke’s Film Noir Johnny Handsome
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Carl Roberts 
Directed by Walter Hill and starring Mickey Rourke, Ellen Barkin, and Lance Henriksen, the neo-noir Johnny Handsome is coming to 4K UHD worldwide.
They changed his looks, his life, and his future… but they couldn’t change his past. Looks can be deceptive in Walter Hill’s mean and moody crime thriller JOHNNY HANDSOME – starring Mickey Rourke (Angel Heart). It is making its worldwide UHD debut on August 17 as part of STUDIOCANAL’s Cult Classics range. The release features a brand new 4K restoration, new extras, and a 12-page booklet. Additionally, there is striking new artwork by Thomas Hodge (aka The Dude Designs), and an O-card. The film is also released on Blu-ray and Digital.
Based on the book by John Godey (author of The Taking of Pelham 123), JOHNNY HANDSOME tells the story of a rehabilitated criminal with a new identity. He gets pulled back into the world of crime. The film showcases Hill’s directorial flair as he expertly navigates the action-thriller genre with style in works like The Driver and Southern Comfort.It features an outstanding lead performance by Rourke. In addition, there is a fantastic all-star cast including Ellen Barkin (Tender Mercies), Elizabeth McGovern (The Commuter), Morgan Freeman (Driving Miss Daisy), and Forest Whitaker (Ghost Dog). Also, cult favorite Lance Henriksen (Aliens) appears in villainous good form. The film has a searing score by the legendary Ry Cooder (Paris, Texas). Furthermore, there is slick, luminous cinematography of the steamy New Orleans location by Matthew F Leonetti (Hill’s Extreme Prejudice).
PREMISE
After being double-crossed during a robbery and sentenced to prison, a deformed gangster undergoes a face transplant and rehabilitation. However, his burning desire for revenge against those who betrayed him never fades…
Described by the Washington Post as ‘ruthlessly efficient’, JOHNNY HANDSOME is a slick, taut, action-packed thriller that builds to a nerve-wracking showdown over a suitcase of cash, and showcases one of Rourke’s coolest and most underrated screen appearances.
THE SPECIAL FEATURES
NEW Interview with Elizabeth McGovern
NEW Audio commentary by filmmaker Edgar Pablos with film historians Nathaniel Thompson and Howard S. Berger
Audio commentary with film critic/author Walter Chaw
Audio commentary with film historians Daniel Kremer and Scout Tafoya
NEW Audio commentary by film critics Alain Silver and James Ursini
Codes to Live By (2020): Walter Hill on Johnny Handsome
Wordsmith: Interview with writer Ken Friedman
Eye of the Beholder: Interview with makeup artist Michael Westmore
Action Man: Interview with stuntman Allan Graf
Trailer
JOHNNY HANDSOME is available to buy on 4K UHD, Blu-ray, and Digital from 17th August 2026 and is available to pre-order.
Introducing Carl! As the News Editor at Future of the Force, Carl has been an invaluable member of our team since early 2016. His expertise and dedication have made him an integral part of our editorial staff. Beyond his professional role, Carl is a fervent supporter of Liverpool F.C. and an avid follower of pop culture. He has a deep passion for Halloween, Friday the 13th, and the iconic movie franchises Star Wars and Star Trek.
He can be found either at his neighborhood cinema, enjoying the latest releases on the big screen, or at home streaming the newest blockbuster movies.
