The Criterion Collection

[lordmorpheus72]

Originally Posted by theater dreamer

Greetings, Criterion enthusiasts. My name is Bill, and I am relatively new to this wonderful niche within the greater cinematic universe. I thought I would introduce myself, as I am sure that I will be an active participant in this discussion. I am a lover of great motion pictures, and I know there are a plethora of visionary directors, and powerful films, I have not yet been exposed to. So, I am here to learn, and to interact.

[Show spoiler]My first Criterion experience came from watching On The Waterfront on Blu, and I absolutely loved both the film, and the attention to detail that Criterion paid to the Kazan masterpiece. I bought the film through Amazon as a member of Prime. It seemed like the perfect jumping in point, if you will. I've long been a fan of Brando, yet somehow, Waterfront had escaped me. Next up, I purchased The Last Emperor, but it came in a plastic case instead of the DigiPack I was expecting. I recall stumbling across something a while ago, but it seems I am in need of some clarification. My understanding is that Criterion are offering to send the plastic cases to people who originally had The Last Emperor in the DigiPack cardboard for $5; this does not include the booklet inside.

So, here's the question. Do they also offer this back the other direction? If I received mine in plastic, can I pay them to receive the DigiPack instead? For one thing, I like uniformity of appearance in my collection. If it's not possible, I'll probably just sell the one I have now used, and then bite the bullet, and search for a copy with the old packaging (which will, no doubt, be more expensive). More than anything, I guess I'm just a purist. When I started my blu ray collection in earnest just a few months ago, I didn't know what I wanted. Now that I'm cognizant of what's out there, I want to get the DigiBook packaging wherever possible. I take care of my collection, and if the option exists, I'd much rather be able to see (and feel) a great cover without a wall of plastic interfering with my enjoyment. It not only hinders the artistic presentation, but there's something to be said about the feel of a DigiBook, too. It's like the difference between a paperback book, and a leather-bound novel. There's a quality of appearance, and since I will display my movie collection, I'd rather buy the more appealing of the two.

Some guidance would be greatly appreciated!

My next addition will undoubtedly be A Brief History of Time. I've long been a great admirer of Professor Hawking, and watching The Theory of Everything on Friday evening reminded me there's more yet out there to be discovered. I have read his book multiple times. I love reading his lectures, and as I have never seen this documentary, it would no doubt be a wise investment

.

Welcome Bill! Enjoy the thread, there's a lot to learn and share, and it's almost always fun!

[movieben1138]

I also would say to just stick with the plastic packaging. It's definitely sturdier than their digipacks. And if you're honestly going to continue diving into their films, you're already beat when it comes to uniformity. The vast majority of their films are in the standard plastic case. You're severely limiting which films you'll be able to purchase if you only want their cardboard cases.

-Ben

Originally Posted by theater dreamer

Greetings, Criterion enthusiasts. My name is Bill, and I am relatively new to this wonderful niche within the greater cinematic universe. I thought I would introduce myself, as I am sure that I will be an active participant in this discussion. I am a lover of great motion pictures, and I know there are a plethora of visionary directors, and powerful films, I have not yet been exposed to. So, I am here to learn, and to interact.

My first Criterion experience came from watching On The Waterfront on Blu, and I absolutely loved both the film, and the attention to detail that Criterion paid to the Kazan masterpiece. I bought the film through Amazon as a member of Prime. It seemed like the perfect jumping in point, if you will. I've long been a fan of Brando, yet somehow, Waterfront had escaped me. Next up, I purchased The Last Emperor, but it came in a plastic case instead of the DigiPack I was expecting. I recall stumbling across something a while ago, but it seems I am in need of some clarification. My understanding is that Criterion are offering to send the plastic cases to people who originally had The Last Emperor in the DigiPack cardboard for $5; this does not include the booklet inside.

So, here's the question. Do they also offer this back the other direction? If I received mine in plastic, can I pay them to receive the DigiPack instead? For one thing, I like uniformity of appearance in my collection. If it's not possible, I'll probably just sell the one I have now used, and then bite the bullet, and search for a copy with the old packaging (which will, no doubt, be more expensive). More than anything, I guess I'm just a purist. When I started my blu ray collection in earnest just a few months ago, I didn't know what I wanted. Now that I'm cognizant of what's out there, I want to get the DigiBook packaging wherever possible. I take care of my collection, and if the option exists, I'd much rather be able to see (and feel) a great cover without a wall of plastic interfering with my enjoyment. It not only hinders the artistic presentation, but there's something to be said about the feel of a DigiBook, too. It's like the difference between a paperback book, and a leather-bound novel. There's a quality of appearance, and since I will display my movie collection, I'd rather buy the more appealing of the two.

Some guidance would be greatly appreciated!

My next addition will undoubtedly be A Brief History of Time. I've long been a great admirer of Professor Hawking, and watching The Theory of Everything on Friday evening reminded me there's more yet out there to be discovered. I have read his book multiple times. I love reading his lectures, and as I have never seen this documentary, it would no doubt be a wise investment.

[gr451]

Originally Posted by alien2010

Can someone please tell me when are Criterion going to announce it's upcoming releases? Tomorrow or Tuesday?

Tomorrow 2PM EST

[atlantajoseph]

Welcome Bill!

I agree with the posters above. The digipak that initially housed The Last Emperor is a flimsy mess compared to the packaging for On the Waterfront. You are better off with the plastic case IMO.

[filmmusic]

Originally Posted by movieben1138

I also would say to just stick with the plastic packaging. It's definitely sturdier than their digipacks.

I agree!
I like the digipacks better, but the plastic cases endure more in the long run while the others will show signs of wear etc.

[MikeZ.]

I've put my old DVD in the " sell " pile, so come on Criterion give me Straw Dogs.

[Roninblues]

Originally Posted by theater dreamer

Greetings, Criterion enthusiasts. My name is Bill, and I am relatively new to this wonderful niche within the greater cinematic universe. I thought I would introduce myself, as I am sure that I will be an active participant in this discussion. I am a lover of great motion pictures, and I know there are a plethora of visionary directors, and powerful films, I have not yet been exposed to. So, I am here to learn, and to interact.

My first Criterion experience came from watching On The Waterfront on Blu, and I absolutely loved both the film, and the attention to detail that Criterion paid to the Kazan masterpiece. I bought the film through Amazon as a member of Prime. It seemed like the perfect jumping in point, if you will. I've long been a fan of Brando, yet somehow, Waterfront had escaped me. Next up, I purchased The Last Emperor, but it came in a plastic case instead of the DigiPack I was expecting. I recall stumbling across something a while ago, but it seems I am in need of some clarification. My understanding is that Criterion are offering to send the plastic cases to people who originally had The Last Emperor in the DigiPack cardboard for $5; this does not include the booklet inside.

So, here's the question. Do they also offer this back the other direction? If I received mine in plastic, can I pay them to receive the DigiPack instead? For one thing, I like uniformity of appearance in my collection. If it's not possible, I'll probably just sell the one I have now used, and then bite the bullet, and search for a copy with the old packaging (which will, no doubt, be more expensive). More than anything, I guess I'm just a purist. When I started my blu ray collection in earnest just a few months ago, I didn't know what I wanted. Now that I'm cognizant of what's out there, I want to get the DigiBook packaging wherever possible. I take care of my collection, and if the option exists, I'd much rather be able to see (and feel) a great cover without a wall of plastic interfering with my enjoyment. It not only hinders the artistic presentation, but there's something to be said about the feel of a DigiBook, too. It's like the difference between a paperback book, and a leather-bound novel. There's a quality of appearance, and since I will display my movie collection, I'd rather buy the more appealing of the two.

Some guidance would be greatly appreciated!

My next addition will undoubtedly be A Brief History of Time. I've long been a great admirer of Professor Hawking, and watching The Theory of Everything on Friday evening reminded me there's more yet out there to be discovered. I have read his book multiple times. I love reading his lectures, and as I have never seen this documentary, it would no doubt be a wise investment.

https://forum.blu-ray.com/forumdisplay.php?f=158

[Bates_Motel]

Originally Posted by theater dreamer

So, here's the question. Do they also offer this back the other direction? If I received mine in plastic, can I pay them to receive the DigiPack instead? For one thing, I like uniformity of appearance in my collection. If it's not possible, I'll probably just sell the one I have now used, and then bite the bullet, and search for a copy with the old packaging (which will, no doubt, be more expensive). More than anything, I guess I'm just a purist. When I started my blu ray collection in earnest just a few months ago, I didn't know what I wanted. Now that I'm cognizant of what's out there, I want to get the DigiBook packaging wherever possible. I take care of my collection, and if the option exists, I'd much rather be able to see (and feel) a great cover without a wall of plastic interfering with my enjoyment. It not only hinders the artistic presentation, but there's something to be said about the feel of a DigiBook, too. It's like the difference between a paperback book, and a leather-bound novel. There's a quality of appearance, and since I will display my movie collection, I'd rather buy the more appealing of the two.

Some guidance would be greatly appreciated!

I actually have one, if you want to send me $3 for shipping. But they don't match the other paper packaging Criterion started using.

[javi92]

Predictions/hopes for Monday:

After Hours
Two Days, One Night
Beyond the Hills
Day for Night
Sawdust and Tinsel (upgrade)
The Exterminating Angel (upgrade)

[theater dreamer]

Originally Posted by Bates_Motel

I actually have one, if you want to send me $3 for shipping. But they don't match the other paper packaging Criterion started using.

Thank you for the offer, Bates Motel. But based on the input of several posters that have chimed in, I think I'll stick with the plastic case it came in. It sounds like it's nowhere near as durable as the packaging the On The Waterfront movie came in, unfortunately.

I guess I can live with a little plastic. God knows between the DVDs I've kept, and the Blu Rays I've bought, I have enough of it. If that's the standard (and one that won't start falling apart immediately), who am I to balk?

I appreciate the information, as well as the welcome, everybody.

I also know to be looking for the new titles being announced on Monday. That was to be my next question.

I sure wish Criterion would do The Silence of the Lambs on Blu Ray. That film could use the Criterion treatment, as the Blu Ray release currently on the market is, well, lacking for such a substantial release. I'd also love to see them do Hamlet on Blu Ray, also. There are no Region A releases of the film on Blu Ray, to my knowledge. Just the DVD they did a while back.

[Polaroid]

Originally Posted by eiknarf

Ya know... I never thought about it until you two pointed it out, but, you're both right.

I think the reason not many people rave about his short films are because, he's too weird!!! And that weirdness that works well across a long palette, such as a feature length film (Mulholland Drive, Lost Highway... etc) doesn't translate well in an 8 minute short. He's too avant-garde for short films. His shorts feel like too much oddness forced and condensed. And what happens when something is condensed!? Its too bitter, too strong, needs diluting.

I have no issues with his shorts, its just his recent music stuff and adverts :/

[jshaide]

Originally Posted by javi92

Predictions/hopes for Monday:

After Hours
Two Days, One Night
Beyond the Hills
Day for Night
Sawdust and Tinsel (upgrade)
The Exterminating Angel (upgrade)

I've been waiting to own this one for ages.

[aes3728]

War Trilogy has been discontinued. Looks promising for upgrade/reissue in the near future. Perhaps Monday?

http://dvdlist.kazart.com/queryDVDList.php3?id=170444

[Page14]

I purchased Down by Law as a blind buy almost 3 years ago. Wow, how time flies! It had been sitting idle on my shelf until today when I finally sat down to watch it for the first time. *LOVED IT!* When I bought it, the main draw for me was Tom Waits being one of the co-stars (as I'm a fan of his music). I think seeing Mr. Waits on the David Letterman show a few nights ago had something to do with spurring me on to watching this now. I was pleasantly surprised to see what a good job he did in this film ... although arguably, Roberto Benigni might steal the show. I'm probably not the best person to give an elaborate review of the film itself, but just wanted you all in this forum to know how much I enjoyed this film. (On to the supplements!)

[Edward J Grug III]

Originally Posted by aes3728

War Trilogy has been discontinued. Looks promising for upgrade/reissue in the near future. Perhaps Monday?

http://dvdlist.kazart.com/queryDVDList.php3?id=170444

Ooo, I hope so. I've been hovering over the UK release...

[jayembee]

Originally Posted by filmmusic

Probably tomorrow.
I can't find a reason for moving the announcement on Tuesday.
(unless it's a holiday in USA)

Not a holiday. On the other hand, some folks might consider May 18 to be a day worth celebrating. After all, it does only come once a year.

[jayembee]

Originally Posted by aes3728

War Trilogy has been discontinued. Looks promising for upgrade/reissue in the near future. Perhaps Monday?

http://dvdlist.kazart.com/queryDVDList.php3?id=170444

Criterion doesn't list it as being OOP.

[Rich Pure Doom]

Originally Posted by Edward J Grug III

Ooo, I hope so. I've been hovering over the UK release...

Just buy it. The BFI looks amazing, and is about half the price the Criterion will be.

[aes3728]

Originally Posted by jayembee

Criterion doesn't list it as being OOP.

OOP tends to deal with lost rights. This seems to be just a discontinuation of current DVD and will produce a different set.

[MifuneFan]

The War trilogy is definitely coming. Not sure if it'll be announced Monday, but very likely this year.