The Criterion Collection

[SlickDamian]

Originally Posted by theater dreamer

Hey everybody, I started my Criterion collection a little over five months ago, and I'm really enjoying the films I have picked up thus far (see my signature for a link to my current collection). It looks like I am one of the rare few that didn't get into Criterion until the Blu-ray era.

I have a list of films I would like to add within the next six to eight months. However, after reading some discussion about picture quality of recent releases like The Fisher King, I have to wonder if any of these films I am contemplating buying have similar picture issues. I've read the reviews, but I'd appreciate input from any of you.

The movies I'm looking to add:

The Night of the Hunter
Belle De Jour
Fanny and Alexander
Kiss Me Deadly
Shoah
Paths of Glory
Day For Night
Rashomon
Days of Heaven
Yojimbo
Sanjuro
Breathless
M
Hoop Dreams
Autumn Sonata
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas
Rosemary's Baby
The Red Shoes
Tess
Modern Times
A Night to Remember
Black Narcissus
Kagemusha
The Trilogy of Life
The Last Temptation of Christ
Vivre sa vie
L'Avventura
Hunger
L'eclisse
Dinner With Andre
Summer Interlude
3 Films by Roberto Rossellini Starring Ingrid Bergman
Three Colors
Macbeth
Rules of the Game
Sweet Smell of Success
Diabolique
The Wages of Fear
The Third Man
Last Year at Marienbad
Summer With Monika
The 39 Steps
Being John Malkovich
Odd Man Out
My Beautiful Laundrette

Of course, all of these have been released. There are films coming out soon that I also want to add (including Mulholland Drive, Ikiru, and In Cold Blood), but I will wait to see the overall impressions from our members. I guess I want to be sure that I'm buying the definitive version of these films, as far as picture and sound quality goes. I love the extras that Criterion includes with their Blu-ray releases, but ultimately, the film is what matters, and I want the best quality possible.

Thank you in advance!

I'd start with:

Three Colors
Night of the Hunter
Days of Heaven

Do you have America Lost & Found, Revanche, Paris Texas, John Cassavettes: Five Films? Great additions as well.

[Val Lewton]

During a breakup, my ex made off with a few of my movies. Unfortunately, one of them was my Carnival of Souls DVD and my collection feels naked without it. I was wondering if anybody knows if Criterion has any concrete plans of upgrading it to blu? I'm pretty close to repurchasing it but I would hold off if there was a good chance of a future upgrade.

Thanks.

[octagon]

Originally Posted by theater dreamer

I have a list of films I would like to add within the next six to eight months. However, after reading some discussion about picture quality of recent releases like The Fisher King, I have to wonder if any of these films I am contemplating buying have similar picture issues. I've read the reviews, but I'd appreciate input from any of you.

The only thing that jumps out is Three Colors. There has been some pretty spirited discussion of the way Blue is framed. Depending on who you ask it's either a complete hack job or not that big a deal.

There was also an audio issue with White but I don't think you have to worry about finding first pressing discs on the shelf anywhere these days.

Here's the dedicated thread if you want to read (a lot) more about it...

https://forum.blu-ray.com/showthread...colors&page=18

[D2Girls]

Originally Posted by theater dreamer

snip

I have several of those movies and I will recommenced purchasing the ones I've seen:


Fanny and Alexander
Belle de Jour
Rashomon
Yojimbo + Sanjuro (they come in a combo back)
Macbeth (Polanski)
L'Avventura

There's quite a few more movies you have listed that I actually own, but I haven't gotten around to watching them yet sadly...

Also I've heard the third man is out of print and seems to be badly overpriced so just wait until they do another run of 'em.

[jayembee]

Originally Posted by CriterionBlues

Whit Stillman confirms on Twitter that Barcelona coming to Criterion.

At least that looks like confirmation to me.

I have not seen enough Stillman. Has anyone seen this one?

I've only seen The Last Days of Disco, a couple of years ago on Netflix. I had this to say about it back then:

My initial impression during the early part of the film was "Dear God, I didn't think it was possible to have so many vapid characters in one movie". But once it became clear that he's making mock of the club culture (but with some amount of genuine affection, as the best parodies always have), the film becomes enjoyable as hell.

I didn't think it was a great movie, but I ended up being glad I saw it. I discovered not long after that I had a copy of Metropolitan on Criterion DVD on the shelf. Still haven't gotten around to watching it (too many other things with higher priority).

On the other hand, another Stillman work I've seen is the episode of Homicide: Life of the Streets that he directed, titled "The Heart of a Saturday Night", which is possibly my favorite episode of that series.

[deepbreathsanddeath]

Originally Posted by Val Lewton

During a breakup, my ex made off with a few of my movies. Unfortunately, one of them was my Carnival of Souls DVD and my collection feels naked without it. I was wondering if anybody knows if Criterion has any concrete plans of upgrading it to blu? I'm pretty close to repurchasing it but I would hold off if there was a good chance of a future upgrade.

Thanks.

It was restored and screened with spider baby. It's coming at some point soon I imagine. Apparently it looks gorgeous. Spider baby looks fantastic so carnival of souls should look a treat.

[popcorntreect]

Originally Posted by pedromvu

Actually I never collected dvd's since in those days I didn't earn money by myself, and my parents had a Mom and pop video rental store, so I just watched everything I could.

Then I decided to start collecting blu-rays but never heard of Criterion(well I did see some of their movies as I remember that old animated logo on the beginning of several films I saw via, let's say some unofficial channels) until it was announced they were going to release the Charlie Chaplin films.

And so I grabbed Modern Times and M on my first B&N sale (just realized that is when I joined this site), and started having curiosity for all the other Blu-ray titles of them, that at the time was not such a big number.

Since then I have discovered a lot of great films that weren't even on my radar so I am grateful for Criterion even if they release things like Jellyfish Eyes JK (haven't seen it yet)

Originally Posted by SkyAntoine

When I finished my home theater in the basement a couple of years ago I set out to establish a collection of the "best" films. I started by getting titles from the AFI list and those with exceptional PQ/AQ. That's when I discovered the Sight and Sound list and that Criterion had many in their catalog.

I bought a few blus and was hooked. I now have over 300 Criterions primarily blu-rays but 20 or so DVDs. 99% of my titles are blind buys and I'm working on watching about 2-3 a week.

I've always been a collector: UK basketball memorabilia, Easton Press books, etc. This was the next step for me with film.

Originally Posted by zoodermin

I "discovered" Criterion back in 2011 when I already had a BD player so all my Criterion films are BDs. There are films that I want that are only available on DVD but I'm waiting for the eventual upgrade.

Originally Posted by broganreynik

I've mostly been a Blu-ray exclusive Criterion collector. I had the Fear and Loathing DVD, but really got into it with The Thin Red Line and The Third Man. Now, I have a ton of Criterion Blus, along with a few Eclipse sets and The Human Condition DVD.

Originally Posted by Namuhana

I started out collecting Criterion films in 2012, with The Red Shoes, and so my entire collection consists of Blu-rays (plus some extra DVDs from the Dual-Format era). I'm not opposed to getting their DVDs, but since there's always hope for an upgrade, I'm always a bit hesitant.

Very cool reading these stories.

[Val Lewton]

Originally Posted by deepbreathsanddeath

It was restored and screened with spider baby. It's coming at some point soon I imagine. Apparently it looks gorgeous. Spider baby looks fantastic so carnival of souls should look a treat.

Thanks for the reply. Spider Baby does indeed look fantastic. I guess holding off a little longer would be the wise thing to do.

[popcorntreect]

Originally Posted by jayembee

I've only seen The Last Days of Disco, a couple of years ago on Netflix. I had this to say about it back then:



I didn't think it was a great movie, but I ended up being glad I saw it. I discovered not long after that I had a copy of Metropolitan on Criterion DVD on the shelf. Still haven't gotten around to watching it (too many other things with higher priority).

On the other hand, another Stillman work I've seen is the episode of Homicide: Life of the Streets that he directed, titled "The Heart of a Saturday Night", which is possibly my favorite episode of that series.

I find myself returning to The Last Days of Disco often. Everything about the production feels authentic: characters, dialogue, costumes, but especially New York City. It's one of the rare New York portrayals that isn't glamorized like a romantic comedy nor hyper-disgusting like Taxi Driver. It's so easily identifiable as a 90s movie, it has all that end of millennium, pre-9/11 optimism and charm but wrapped up in 70s attire and set pieces.

[jw007]

Originally Posted by SlickDamian

Can't wait to see The Martian. I'm reading the book now, and it's one of the best that I've read in a long while.

That's what my friend said after he told me it was one of the best books he's read in many years (in audiobook format), but right after the movie ended, I looked at him and he looked back at me and I knew he was underwhelmed by the film. He said the book was eons better than Ridley Scott's interpretation. A couple of days later he confirmed to me his thoughts that he wasn't blown away by the film adaptation. Well, obviously not many films could top their books, with maybe the exception of Kubrick's The Shining.

Having now seen the movie, I'm actually inspired to download the audiobook and listen to it soon.

[pedromvu]

Originally Posted by theater dreamer

I have a list of films I would like to add within the next six to eight months. However, after reading some discussion about picture quality of recent releases like The Fisher King, I have to wonder if any of these films I am contemplating buying have similar picture issues. I've read the reviews, but I'd appreciate input from any of you.

First, looks like you still got a whole lot of films to catch up

As for the problems on some of the recent releases about compression artifacts I would say you first take a look at some to see if it is a problem to you, I checked your list of owned Criterions and noticed you have Easy Rider from the BBS set, that is one that have been criticized, check it out to see if you think it is indeed a problem, the reviewer certainly doesn't find anything wrong with it, and I did a test on a big screen with a projector and didn't noticed anything wrong either, so I guess it depends.

[darkness2918]

I still remember the joy of first discovering Criterion titles this past July for the first time. Still have so many to see still.

[pedromvu]

Originally Posted by SlickDamian

Can't wait to see The Martian. I'm reading the book now, and it's one of the best that I've read in a long while.

Just came back from watching it, and have to say that, while I don't know if it is as good as the book (and really, which film is? specially when you have the book still in your memory from a recent read), it is still the best Ridley Scott has come out with in the last 10-12 years, so I guess there is still hope for the next Prometheus AKA Alien: Paradise Lost.

[Polaroid]

Originally Posted by pedromvu

Just came back from watching it, and have to say that, while I don't know if it is as good as the book (and really, which film is? specially when you have the book still in your memory from a recent read), it is still the best Ridley Scott has come out with in the last 10-12 years, so I guess there is still hope for the next Prometheus AKA Alien: Paradise Lost.

My problems with Prometheus was the use of the soundtrack and the script.

Imo it didn't need that soundtrack, it was way too much, look at Alien, its subtle but adds so much tension and fear. I like the soundtrack on its own but it was just way to much or the film and in terms of the script, the characters made so many silly choices and a lot of it felt really forced. They also cut the ending down which was so frustrating as it felt pretty rushed but own you see the full version it is so much better!

I cant really fault the visuals or the casting as I loved who they used (I have a thing for Noomi Rapace's accent ha).

But yeah was such a huge let down for me, the 3D was not needed and Ridley Scott kinda lied to us when selling it as a 3D film...

If only it had the same feel as Alien which is the best Alien film.

I struggle to enjoy Scott's recent film, I have tried 3 times to watch Exodus but keep falling asleep :/ I just can't enjoy it... I just jeep he learns from the the feedback from Prometheus, I want that fear and mystery that Alien gave us!

[theater dreamer]

First of all, a big tip of the cap in gratitude to those who took a few minutes to give me some feedback. It's really appreciated. This forum is a veritable treasure trove.

It's funny, I managed to make it 40 years without ever finding an addiction. Now I've found two in the last four years. As if my pre-war and vintage baseball card collection didn't cost me enough, now the Criterion Collection is standing on a dimly-lit street corner, showing a little leg, beckoning me to come forth, and empty my bank account. It's a never-ending struggle. Now, to address your responses individually.

Originally Posted by schan1269

Several of those Crit are OOP. I think all the OOP are on Hulu.

Otherwise, Last Year in Marienbad from the UK almost pays for a multi-region player...

By itself.

One of the next things I'll be purchasing is a hardware modified Blu-ray player from World Import. That will allow me alternative options when the CC discs aren't available. If I watch one of the movies on Hulu, and like ti enough, I'll pony up to get the OOP copy.

Thanks!

Originally Posted by SlickDamian

I'd start with:

Three Colors
Night of the Hunter
Days of Heaven

Do you have America Lost & Found, Revanche, Paris Texas, John Cassavettes: Five Films? Great additions as well.

Yes, I do have the AL&F collection. I wanted The Last Picture Show and Easy Rider. When I saw the other films in the set (and who was involved in them), the collection became a no-brainer. Night of the Hunter is actually going to be my next buy, and Three Colors intrigues me, too. I have The Double Life of Veronique, but have not yet watched it (this week, I will). Cassavettes, I must admit, I am not familiar with. I haven't seen any of his movies, so I will check out my Hulu sub. That's $8.65 a month well spent. The others I do not as of yet have, nor have I seen them. However, to quote Tyrion Lannister, "I like living." I plan on being around long enough to see all of them.

Thank you!

Originally Posted by octagon

The only thing that jumps out is Three Colors. There has been some pretty spirited discussion of the way Blue is framed. Depending on who you ask it's either a complete hack job or not that big a deal.

There was also an audio issue with White but I don't think you have to worry about finding first pressing discs on the shelf anywhere these days.

Here's the dedicated thread if you want to read (a lot) more about it...

https://forum.blu-ray.com/showthread...colors&page=18

I've bookmarked it, and will read it later today. I know a similar issue was discussed about the framing of The Last Emperor. I'm collecting all the Academy Award Best Picture winners, and the Criterion version seemed to be the best bet after researching. I've seen some comparative screenshots, and I wish the original aspect ratio had been left intact. It bothers me somewhat, but it's a sufficient cut for now until I figure out a better alternative.

Thanks!

Originally Posted by D2Girls

I have several of those movies and I will recommenced purchasing the ones I've seen:


Fanny and Alexander
Belle de Jour
Rashomon
Yojimbo + Sanjuro (they come in a combo back)
Macbeth (Polanski)
L'Avventura

There's quite a few more movies you have listed that I actually own, but I haven't gotten around to watching them yet sadly...

Also I've heard the third man is out of print and seems to be badly overpriced so just wait until they do another run of 'em.

Thank you for the feedback. And don't feel bad, I have yet to watch about 20% of my movies. I look at them as I would a fine wine collection. I'm in no rush to see them all. I, unfortunately, have nothing but free time because of my back. But I love waking up, and letting inspiration find me. I'll walk over to my collection, peruse the titles, and decide where I want to travel for a few hours. A couple nights ago, I made up a nice espresso, took it and an almond biscotti up to my bedroom, and watched Fellini's 8 1/2. It was great.

Originally Posted by pedromvu

First, looks like you still got a whole lot of films to catch up

As for the problems on some of the recent releases about compression artifacts I would say you first take a look at some to see if it is a problem to you, I checked your list of owned Criterions and noticed you have Easy Rider from the BBS set, that is one that have been criticized, check it out to see if you think it is indeed a problem, the reviewer certainly doesn't find anything wrong with it, and I did a test on a big screen with a projector and didn't noticed anything wrong either, so I guess it depends.

Firstly, yes, I have a lot of films to watch. I consider that a wonderful dilemma.

I will check out the Easy Rider print later tonight, and see if the overall quality is on par with the other Criterion films I have seen. Honestly, I don't think it will bother me all that much provided there are no serious issues. My eyes aren't what they were five years ago, so if there's minor artifacting, I'll probably overlook it, anyway.

Thank you!

[Banned User]

Originally Posted by deepbreathsanddeath

It was restored and screened with spider baby. It's coming at some point soon I imagine. Apparently it looks gorgeous. Spider baby looks fantastic so carnival of souls should look a treat.

Spider Baby is such a crazy wonderful movie. Carnival should have been a Oct release really looking forward to it. Personally would love for Criterion to release Dead of Night. Another great film IMO. UK release looks pretty great. Still one of the greatest endings, Or beginnings and its place in horror movie history is without argument. Deserves to be more recognized on this side of the Atlantic.

Its a shame no one is releasing Ealing Studio films in Region A.

[SkyAntoine]

Watched several movies over the weekend, but only a few Criterions.

I started Paris, Texas at lunch one day last week, but went back Saturday and watched the entire movie. Cannot overstate how much I love this movie. Easily moved in my Top 20. Acting, cinematography, plot, setting, etc. I'm a sucker for desert landscapes on the big screen. My favorite part was the telephone discussion at the end. Did Wenders use High and Low as inspiration for this?

After watching del Toro's Mama with the family (well I watched and the kids mainly covered their eyes), I kept with the horror theme and watched Diabolique for the first time. The supplements were interesting to hear how meticulous Clouzot was with each scene. Very solid film, but I wonder what it would have been had Hitchcock got the rights first. I am yet to watch Wages of Fear even though it was one of the first Criterions I bought. I may try to squeeze it in this week.

Older girls wanted to watch the new Poltergeist so we put it on last night. I always know when I'm getting ready to waste 2 hours of my life and this was another case. Awful, awful, awful. Why remake classics when you're going to fail?

Started The Honeymoon Killers late last night, but only got the first hour finished before I got tired of waiting for the action. I'll finish it tonight. I was expecting more of a Bonny & Clyde, Natural Born Killers, biopic type film. It is known for being gruesome so I guess it is all in the last 30 minutes. I wish they would have invested in a little better sound equipment. I felt like they were shooting scenes in a closet at times.

[movieben1138]

I forgot to check in on the day I got the recent newsletter and I just scrolled back several pages without finding mention...what was everyone's general opinion of the recent newsletter clue cartoon of the people around the Eiffel Tower?

[SkyAntoine]

Originally Posted by movieben1138

I forgot to check in on the day I got the recent newsletter and I just scrolled back several pages without finding mention...what was everyone's general opinion of the recent newsletter clue cartoon of the people around the Eiffel Tower?

People in the know say Paris Belongs to Us by Jacques Rivette. It is on the Criterion's Hulu channel and it seems like there may be a phantom page for Rivette on Criterion's website.

[GentleGiant]

I watched Abbas Kiarostami's Close-Up last night, and I have to say I was totally floored by this film. I'm not going to say anything about it because I really can't. It spoke to me through its language, images, directorial choices, use of sound, in a way few films can, and it was magical.

When watching the trial scenes, I found myself drawing parallels between this film and Carl Th. Dreyer's Passion of Joan of Arc. The emotion pouring out through those close-ups was quietly powerful, almost devastating.