The Criterion Collection

[zeroman987]

Originally Posted by cineclectic

These seinfeld references are so IRONIC that i suddenly feel the overwhelming thirst for Pabst Blue Ribbon. It's also IRONIC that Blue Velvet rules and isn't in the collection. Hey guize, do you think Moonrise Kingdom will get an exclusive Criterion release? Boy I really hope that the HBO series "Girls" gets the Carlos treatment. Mumblecore, dubstep, knitted sweaters from goodwill.

Seriously though, it's only a matter of time before the the word "Criterion" becomes synonymous with "hipster". I really wouldn't be surprised if there's some guy sitting in his living room right now with his TOMS cordones propped up while he watches the supplements on Mystery Train and munches on vegan popcorn.

I really hope all vegans are not like the ones I have had the (dis)pleasure of meeting. Every single one went all evangelical on me. (no, I am not going to give up my leather wallet, wool suit, wool coat, leather belt and leather shoes).

I think you should reconsider your negative opinion on Pabst Blue Ribbon though. It is definitely the king of the cheapo beers. Much better than spending 3 dollars on a plastic cup of Old Style.

[Cinemach]

Originally Posted by DLizzle

I wonder which films Georges Melies saw in order to make him a worthwhile filmmaker.

Hugo.

[*DrStrangelove*]

Originally Posted by zeroman987

I omitted the rest of your quote because I never once attacked Dunham because of her weight, said she had sex with anyone to get her film released or anything of the sort so I will assume that portion of your post did not apply to me.

I never said that her dislike of Bigger than Life or her refusal to watch the Godfather did not make her qualified to make films. This is what I actually said:

Her refusal to watch the Godfather and the way she expresses her refusal shows a lack of seriousness and a lack of commitment to improving her craft. Someone who is serious about their job is eager to improve themselves. A good lawyer will at least read part of Blackstone's Commentaries because they are an important resource for understanding the law. A good lawyer will be eager to do their continuing legal education and engaging the material in a way so that they will receive the most benefit.

When she says she doesn't want to watch the Godfather, she is saying that she has nothing to learn from the film. She fails to realize that as a filmmaker, these films are not entertainment. Rather, films which are universally recognized as classics are her treatises and her textbooks. If she were serious about her job, she would be "reading" these "treatises and textbooks".

No one has responded to this point. Not one person. The only responses I have gotten are appeals to authority (other famous film makers don't care to watch these movies) and misstatements of my actual words (you need to watch good films to be a good film maker). I was attacking what I perceived as arrogance and foolishness (probably an attempt on her part to seem "edgy" and "cool") by the film maker. It made me doubt her seriousness as a film maker. I never really questioned her ability to a good film (give 100 monkeys 100 typewriters and 100 years and you get Romeo and Juliet).

That said, the trailer, the 3 reasons and every synopsis and review I have read (other Roger Ebert's review) has not made me want to see this film. No one in this thread has said why they like the film and based on the above sources, the film looks like a 24 year old woman looking at the camera with a sour expression on her face complaining that her dear mother has allowed her to live at home. Also she screeches at her mother (who is a saint, based on the trailer) who has graciously allowed her into her home without any expectation of rent or living expenses. If I wanted to see someone act like a inconsiderate, entitled and ungrateful child, I would go to my Uncle's house and spend time with my 16 year old cousin.

I don't understand why people vehemently defend this person's film without actually giving any reason why it is good. Do you not know why you think it is good? What is so great about this film? Why do you like it? Is there something that I am missing? Or is the truth that it is actually a 24 year old women with a sour expression on her face pouting for the camera for 90 minutes?

[Show spoiler] (also she has awkward sex apparently - according to Ebert's review)

I pretty sure no one is defending the film. They're just annoyed with all the complaining. And for someone who hasn't even SEEN this film, you sure have a pretty strong opinion about it. Pretty ironic. Why don't you stop watching trailers and reading reviews and just watch the film. Atleast that way people will take you seriously on your opinion of the film. For record, I saw the film and disliked it. Doesn't mean I'm gonna go on huge rant about it thou.

[DetroitSquirreL]

Originally Posted by Joe Dalek

Their newsletter offers page, including dual-format releases £10.99 through next week. http://www.eurekavideo.co.uk/offers/...ter190112.html

[DetroitSquirreL]

Originally Posted by Joe Dalek

Man, I like Heineken. Do you like Heineken?

nope, its piss water

[octagon]

Originally Posted by Joe Dalek

Their newsletter offers page, including dual-format releases £10.99 through next week. http://www.eurekavideo.co.uk/offers/...ter190112.html

Thanks for the heads up. I passed on City Girl for the time being but finally got Sunrise and Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter for $35 and change (which included shipping which I was definitely not expecting).

Originally Posted by DetroitSquirreL

nope, its piss water

She wore Bluuuuuuuuuuuuueeeeeee....

[BohemianGraham]

Originally Posted by zeroman987

I omitted the rest of your quote because I never once attacked Dunham because of her weight, said she had sex with anyone to get her film released or anything of the sort so I will assume that portion of your post did not apply to me.

I never said that her dislike of Bigger than Life or her refusal to watch the Godfather did not make her qualified to make films. This is what I actually said:

Her refusal to watch the Godfather and the way she expresses her refusal shows a lack of seriousness and a lack of commitment to improving her craft. Someone who is serious about their job is eager to improve themselves. A good lawyer will at least read part of Blackstone's Commentaries because they are an important resource for understanding the law. A good lawyer will be eager to do their continuing legal education and engaging the material in a way so that they will receive the most benefit.

When she says she doesn't want to watch the Godfather, she is saying that she has nothing to learn from the film. She fails to realize that as a filmmaker, these films are not entertainment. Rather, films which are universally recognized as classics are her treatises and her textbooks. If she were serious about her job, she would be "reading" these "treatises and textbooks".

No one has responded to this point. Not one person. The only responses I have gotten are appeals to authority (other famous film makers don't care to watch these movies) and misstatements of my actual words (you need to watch good films to be a good film maker). I was attacking what I perceived as arrogance and foolishness (probably an attempt on her part to seem "edgy" and "cool") by the film maker. It made me doubt her seriousness as a film maker. I never really questioned her ability to a good film (give 100 monkeys 100 typewriters and 100 years and you get Romeo and Juliet).

That said, the trailer, the 3 reasons and every synopsis and review I have read (other Roger Ebert's review) has not made me want to see this film. No one in this thread has said why they like the film and based on the above sources, the film looks like a 24 year old woman looking at the camera with a sour expression on her face complaining that her dear mother has allowed her to live at home. Also she screeches at her mother (who is a saint, based on the trailer) who has graciously allowed her into her home without any expectation of rent or living expenses. If I wanted to see someone act like a inconsiderate, entitled and ungrateful child, I would go to my Uncle's house and spend time with my 16 year old cousin.

I don't understand why people vehemently defend this person's film without actually giving any reason why it is good. Do you not know why you think it is good? What is so great about this film? Why do you like it? Is there something that I am missing? Or is the truth that it is actually a 24 year old women with a sour expression on her face pouting for the camera for 90 minutes?

[Show spoiler] (also she has awkward sex apparently - according to Ebert's review)

My post wasn't directed at you for those comments, as you actually back up your statements. I haven't watched the film, so I can't comment on the film, nor have I made any comments on the film based on the trailer. As I pointed out, the other people making those comments, not you, are the ones who most of the criticism for those comments is being levied against.

Although I disagree with you saying no one has addressed your point. I stated, and you even quoted it in your response to me, we're only judging her based one one or two blog posts. She may have a lot more knowledge of classic films we don't know about. Why does it really matter if she watches The Godfather or not? People made great films before The Godfather came out. It's not the be all and end all of cinema.

Originally Posted by *DrStrangelove*

I pretty sure no one is defending the film. They're just annoyed with all the complaining. And for someone who hasn't even SEEN this film, you sure have a pretty strong opinion about it. Pretty ironic. Why don't you stop watching trailers and reading reviews and just watch the film. Atleast that way people will take you seriously on your opinion of the film. For record, I saw the film and disliked it. Doesn't mean I'm gonna go on huge rant about it thou.

This. At least you watched the film before you decided you disliked it, and aren't disliking the film just because you don't like her appearance and because she refuses to watch The Godfather.

BTW *Dr. Strangelove* did you get to Branded to Kill and Belle du jour yet? I didn't notice if you did or not due to the glut of Dunham posts.

[SpiderBaby]

Off-topic, and thought I would recommend it (for those that don't already know, or just a reminder. Don't know what the transfers will look like, just recommending the films), A Marlene Dietrich Double Feature that includes Dishonored & Shanghai Express will be released by TCM/Universal in the Vault Collection (starts shipping FEB 6th). Dishonored has to be my favorite film of the Sternberg/Dietrich bunch and I'm glad this has FINALLY received a U.S. release (though I remember a rumor that it was going to get a Criterion release in the past. Guess not.).

http://shop.tcm.com/marlene-dietrich...ult-collection

[BohemianGraham]

Originally Posted by Joe Dalek

Man, I like Heineken. Do you like Heineken?

It's in the top 20. I prefer Guinness, Hoegaarden, McEwans Scotch ale (a wee heavy beer with 8% alcohol), Hobgoblin (only comes out at Christmas now, grr!), Garrison Raspberry Wheat, or St. Ambroise Apricot Wheat if I'm buying. I really like some of the kits my dad makes up. I'm more of a wine drinker, and I make my own. I just bottled some Coffee Port and Chocolate Orange Port two weeks ago.

Originally Posted by DetroitSquirreL

nope, its piss water

Incorrect sir, you must not have tried Alexander Keith's India Pale Ale. It's the unofficial beer of my province, as the commercials call it the Pride of Nova Scotia. I call it the Piss of Nova Scotia myself.

[Icemouth]

Originally Posted by AreaUnderTheCurve

I don't consider myself a film buff, but instead someone who happens to enjoy and discuss the medium. My main motivation behind watching movies is to be entertained and to improve my writing. I don't see it as anything other than entertainment and a way to establish culture, unlike that retablo guy who thinks its the same as saving lives and prolonging them in society. The balls on that guy, elevating ART to the level of SCIENCE, when the former is a distraction and the latter a form of progress. If this medium disappeared, I wouldn't shed a single tear. In fact, I dare say that my writing would improve far, far more if I were to read more than I already do, something I do quite a bit.

You haven't explained why you wouldn't watch a so called "greatest film of all time". How do you know it wouldn't be entertaining if you've never seen it? That's the thinking of the "it doesn't have explosions, it sucks" crowd.

As for "art is a distraction", you seem to be ignoring the massive part it played in the creation of culture and identity.

[BohemianGraham]

Originally Posted by SpiderBaby

Off-topic, and thought I would recommend it (though don't know what the transfers will look like, just recommending the films), A Marlene Dietrich Double Feature that includes Dishonored & Shanghai Express will be released by TCM/Universal in the Vault Collection (starts shipping FEB 6th). Dishonored has to be my favorite film of the Sternberg/Dietrich bunch and I'm glad this has FINALLY received a U.S. release.

http://shop.tcm.com/marlene-dietrich...ult-collection

TCM's great for that sort of thing. Their DVD releases are pretty top notch, as I have a few such as the "Romantic Comedies" quadruple feature (should be the Katherine Hepburn rom-com pack, as all the films have her in them), and the John Wayne Westerns pack. As much as people seem to hate DVD and Warner, it's a pretty great deal they have going with TCM to release a lot of films that are neglected, and for those looking for some classic films.

[oildude]

Originally Posted by Joe Dalek

If you like Jarmusch, I highly recommend the droll Aki Kaurismäki Proletariat Trilogy set

This set is on my shelf, waiting for me to watch it. I bought it during the November B&N sale after previewing it on hulu plus. I was so engrossed by the films I actually watched about a third of each movie and had to stop myself from watching each one completely, just because I had seen enough to know I really liked them, and wanted to save the experience for the discs. I will watch them one of these days; right now, I am still making my way through the Japanese sets I also bought.

I would have bought the Leningrad Cowboys set, too, but had to draw a line somewhere as I had already bought more sets than I intended going into the sale.

My next round of Eclipse sets will include Gorin, Pearls of the Czech New Wave, and a couple of others I passed on last time.

[rkish]

I was finally able to sit down and watch the first of the three films in the Jean Pierre Gorin Eclipse set. Let me just say that all I knew about any of the films in the set, is what I read about them. I can only speak about Poto and Cabengo, as that is the only film I've watched so far. I won't put my comments in spoilers, as this is more a documentary with no real plot, just life experiences...but I don't want to tamper with your own experiences, if you want to go in with a clear mind.

If you haven't read about it...it's a documentary about twin girls from the San Diego area, that grew up in a somewhat dysfunctional household with an American father who served time in the Air Force, a German mother that he met and married, while serving in Germany, and a German grandmother that spoke nothing but German (their mother spoke perfect English). They "developed their own language" and were able to understand commands that were spoken in English, but spoke to each other and the rest of the world in their "own language".

(INSERT SPOILER TAG HERE!!!)

After watching their behavior and development, my feeling is, that these girls were on the developmental spectrum and were likely either Autistic or possibly had Asperger's Syndrome. I tend to think that they are autistic, as I saw a lot of the same traits and attempts at communication, as I do with my nine year old son James, who has Autism. Parts of the film even made me cry, but hope springs eternal, as you see how happy these young girls are and how they develop over the course of time. You even get a chance to actually see Gorin in the film, as he interacts with the girls, while they are cutting up vegetables for a salad for a picnic. He just seemed like a really nice guy...

I'm wonderfully shocked and delighted that Gorin took the time and love to produce a touching film of this calibre...NO ONE in the US would have tackled this subject area today, much less back in 1980. I deal with Speech Therapists with my son...but hell...I didn't even know that ANY existed back in the late 70s/1980. It's a wonder that these girls weren't committed to a mental health institution, as my own son might have been, had he been born 20 to 30 years ago.

BRAVO Jean Pierre Gorin! What a way to start off an Eclipse set!

Next up..."Routine Pleasures" about American model train enthusiasts...what's not to love about that!

[Antonmassacre1]

Originally Posted by BohemianGraham

Incorrect sir, you must not have tried Alexander Keith's India Pale Ale. It's the unofficial beer of my province, as the commercials call it the Pride of Nova Scotia. I call it the Piss of Nova Scotia myself.

The beer is great but the tour of the brewery is a bore. The don't even allow fisticuffs in the bar. What's that all about???

[Criterion Collector]

Regarding the Lena Dunham conversation: Everyone that was following the discussion knows how I feel about the film, and her abilities as a director. They are also aware of how I feel about the arguments covering her inclusion in the Criterion collection.

I am also aware of the other opinions expressed here. Some I agree with, some I disagree with. What is clear, is the fact that no one is changing anyone's mind about any of the points discussed.

In light of that, I am not going to address her, her film, nor her reasons to be part of the collection, after this post. Unless I am directly asked a question about my views from having watched her film, Tiny Furniture.

It is what it is, and we all feel what we feel. Differing opinions are ok to have, even if one side doesn't understand the logic of the other. When it comes to art, logic sometimes gets tossed aside for emotion. When people feel strongly about something, and another person feels the opposite way, sometimes that can feel like a personal attack because of your emotional involvement with the art in question. I am that way with music, not as much with film.

Regarding alcohol: I no longer drink, but when I did, I liked red beer a lot. These days you can buy "Chilada" Budweiser and Bud Light. Back in my day, we had to mix our own.

I also enjoyed rum, or vodka, and Diet Rite quite a bit. Also, whiskey sours made with Jim Beam were excellent.

As far as Criterion being associated with being a "hipster" label. I agree that it (kind of) already is. The thing is, I don't necessarily view that as a bad thing. Even the hippest of the hipsters probably wouldn't continue to support the label unless they were genuinely interested in what they were doing. Most people wouldn't want to buy BDs at $30 a pop, just to "be cool" it doesn't make sense.

The more people that support the things we enjoy, the better.

[Oblivion138]

Originally Posted by Joe Dalek

Man, I like Heineken. Do you like Heineken?

Do you know what a love letter is?

Damn, I think that's the only line from that scene that I can type without getting censored. haha

[ikari777]

Who has any educated guesses for the May releases? I'm really hoping for Chaplin's Gold Rush, any Kurosawa or Bergman (Wild Strawberries???).

[cineclectic]

Originally Posted by Criterion Collector

The more people that support the things we enjoy, the better.

I would agree with this if it didn't mean we had to accept terrible indie trash like Tiny Furniture in place of the thousands of films still waiting for and completely deserving of the Criterion treatment. Eventually these releases only happening once in a while could turn into once or twice a month and before you know it, there's a thread on Vice.com (do they have a forum?) about how dumb it is that Criterion's releasing another one of those "unworthy foreign films that we have a secret hate for". Then someone will defend Fellini by accusing everyone else of being biased because they don't like the fact that he had a double chin.

[Oblivion138]

Originally Posted by *DrStrangelove*

Can we all just forget about Lena Dunham and the fact that she doesn't like/didn't watch The Godfather? Cause really, who cares? She got a Criterion release and there's nothing you or anybody here could do about it. Just don't buy the blu ray guys.

Agreed. Though I will say that anyone who categorically refuses to watch The Godfather should at least refrain from reviewing films. haha

That's how all this nonsense started, right? She was reviewing Red Riding on her blog, and couldn't resist mentioning that she refuses to watch The Godfather. Actually, why even defend her? It's clear that this is the response she wanted. Only provocateurs make controversial statements with such deliberate boldness when they're only semi-relevant. When she typed those words, she obviously knew that people would burn her at the internet stake for it, and threw it out there, hoping to fuel some fires. Good for her...the world needs more provocateurs.

But I have very little respect for people who won't give The Godfather (or any other "classic") a chance, for some inane reason of "I don't like movies about that kind of thing." Watching it and not liking it is one thing...I can respect that as an opinion. But willful ignorance of a revered film, simply because it's "about the mafia"...that, I don't get. There was a time when I could say that I didn't like westerns, or movies "about" sports. Then I saw films like The Searchers and Raging Bull, and realized that setting and subject matter do not ultimately determine the interest level of a film. A realization at which I never would have arrived had I simply said, "Raging Bull? Isn't that a movie about boxing? No thanks."

[moody41]

I know these a few Melville fans here and thought I'd inform you that his first movie Le Silence De La Mer is available for £10.99 (About $16) with free worldwide shipping direct from Eureka. The movie is region-free as well. http://www.eurekavideo.co.uk/offers/new.html