The Criterion Collection

[jrsl76]

Originally Posted by Wooden Lens

I'll second Theater Dreamer here. As long as you take care of your Blurays after purchasing them (I know the retail stores themselves can ruin these boxes) you really have some beautifully designed cases with these DigiBooks!

Just to let everyone know I have messaged Criterion before regarding certain Digibook packaging recently that I thought was long gone (see: Night of the Hunter) and was able to secure a new case ($5 a piece - outside digi / inside digi / book / etc) but it was worth it for some of those titles I wanted in DigiBook form or that got damaged and eventually went OOP.

Good to know as I have a few I need to replace as well.

[Banned User]

Originally Posted by theater dreamer

MoC's The Passion of Joan of Arc is very enticing.!

Amazing movie and Bluray. Doubt you will regret it. Still puzzled why Criterion hasn't released the film.

[RickDee]

Originally Posted by hoytereden

Is there a list of titles that were originally issued as Digipaks but have since been reissued in plastic cases? I went to Costco some time ago when they were selling Tess and was a bit disappointed seeing it in a Scanavo case.

Wish I could find Tess in the plastic case

[Polaroid]

Originally Posted by RickDee

Wish I could find Tess in the plastic case

Buy replacement case and then pay $5 to Criterion for artwork :P

[Kardinal]

Jan Troell did not only direct The Emigrants and The New Land. He was also the co-screenwriter, editor and cinematographer on both films....quite busy, you can say....

I only order US editions once a year (a big haul from amazon.com), and the Criterion release of these films is definitely one I will buy next time. It hasn't been released on blu-ray in Sweden and perhaps it never will. But the swedish 3-disc boxset on dvd with both films I will keep, since it has a commentary track with the two screenwriters.



About Everlasting Moments: if you translate the swedish original title, it says 'Maria Larssons Everlasting Moments'.

[AaronJ]

Originally Posted by Banned User

Amazing movie and Bluray. Doubt you will regret it. Still puzzled why Criterion hasn't released the film.

Yep. That's why I finally pulled the trigger, both on a region free player and on the package from MoC itself.

I just couldn't take it anymore.

[super56k]

I finally updated my Criterion wish list to reflect 2016 titles to date. . .and I'm up to 40 on the year already. Not sure how I plan on budgeting all the ones I want, especially since that budget is spread thinner since going region free. At any rate it's very exciting to see all these upcoming releases just in the first half of 2016, with June's announcements still to come. Can't wait to see what the rest of the year brings. . .hopefully a lot more Kurosawa.

As I sit here typing this post there's a stack of 8 Blu-rays from Amazon.fr that came in today. Sort of Criterion related, as among them is The Grand Illusion, The Third Man, Lacombe Lucien, Equinox Flower, Le jour se lève, and The Tales of Hoffman. It's both good and bad to have the capability to buy from around the world, though mostly good.

[RickDee]

Originally Posted by Polaroid

Buy replacement case and then pay $5 to Criterion for artwork :P

I don't think criterion sells the artwork. I did not see that on their site

[Polaroid]

Originally Posted by RickDee

I don't think criterion sells the artwork. I did not see that on their site

They do just email them and request it and you send payment via PayPal

[jmclick]

Originally Posted by theater dreamer

Ok, guys, I'd love some input please. I'm working on narrowing down a list of films I'm going to purchase during the Flash sale. I'll probably buy five, or maybe six this time 'round. I just got The Kid in day before yesterday, so that goes towards my purchases for February. Additionally, I have other, non-Criterion releases I want, as well, so I have to exercise some restraint.

Here's the list as it currently stands.

M
The Complete Jean Vigo
Fanny and Alexander
Odd Man Out
Yi Yi
Autumn Sonata
Late Spring
It Happened One Night
Orpheus
Insomnia
The Red Shoes
Safety Last
Rashomon
The Last Temptation of Christ
Nashville
The Leopard
The Freshman
L'Avventura
The Graduate

[Show spoiler]My current Criterion library is listed in my signature. Seeing what I have, and my entire collection, if you guys can think of any movies I might enjoy, ones I may have inexplicably overlooked, I'd love some suggestions. I have a pretty open mind, and am always looking to discover new directors, actors, etc.

I am working on the Sight & Sound 2012 Critics poll, the AFI 100 Greatest American Films lists, and the complete Academy Award Best Picture winners list. Eventually, my goal is to have every Best Picture nominee on Blu.

I'm looking at adding City Girl, The Passion of Joan of Arc, La Vie En Rose and The Pianist as imports in the next few weeks. I also have a bunch of movies I want to get from FOX Connect. If you look in my collection here, I have an extensive wish list. This is becoming a very expensive second hobby.

Thanks for any input, guys! I really do appreciate the discussions here each day.

Okay, number one on your list should be Nashville: it's currently available in a dual-format digipak; it was a Best Picture Oscar nominee; it's ranked 77 on the 2012 Sight & Sound Top 250 List; and it's one of my all-time favorite films, featuring outstanding performances and a great plot that is perfect for election-year viewing.

Next, I think you should strongly consider The Freshman, especially if you know you'll eventually pick up a copy. Again, it's currently available in dual-format digipak; why wait and risk missing out on your preferred packaging?

Your next choices should be governed by your heart and whims. In the mood for knock-your-socks-off Technicolor? Choose The Red Shoes. Want a classic comedy you can enjoy over and over again? It Happened One Night. Willing to let two great actresses plunge you into despair and bring you to the brink of suicide? Go for Autumn Sonata.

Actually, all the films on your list are worthwhile, and I could make a strong case for any of them. You can't lose!

[ravenus]

Originally Posted by Banned User

Amazing movie and Bluray. Doubt you will regret it. Still puzzled why Criterion hasn't released the film.

They probably can't/don't want to use the same scores that Eureka used for their release, and will need to commission new ones. For their DVD they had a special edit of the Voices of Light soundtrack but that will not be suitable for the 20fps playback that is considered the more legit way of presenting the film.

[hoytereden]

Originally Posted by hoytereden

Is there a list of titles that were originally issued as Digipaks but have since been reissued in plastic cases?

Anyone know? I don't mean the very early releases like The Third Man, The Last Metro, etc. but some of the more recent ones like the dual format titles. I ask because some of those are ones I'm eyeing for the upcoming flash sale and I don't want risk getting plastic over Digipak. Thanks!

Edit. Thanks! theater dreamer has aswered my question. Much appreciated!

[theater dreamer]

Sorry in advance for the long post, guys. Lots to respond to here...

Originally Posted by Sifox211

It was autumn last year - I planned to get it in the B&N November sale but by the time that rolled around the digipack was long gone. I'd be interested to hear if you can replace the plastic case though!

I heard back from Jon this afternoon. Unfortunately, they no longer have any of the original Digipak components for The Leopard. I would be interested to see a list of what DigiPak items they have for The Last Emperor, The 400 Blows and Night of the Hunter. Those are the three, off the top of my head, that I own previously issued as DigiPaks that I have with Scanavo cases instead. I have Tess in the DigiPak, and thankfully, it's pretty much pristine. It's absolutely beautiful, one of my favorites in the whole collection.

Originally Posted by shadedpain4

Last thing I want is Criterion to be making creative decisions based on what will save them money. Im sure they do already, but the less they do it the better.

Agree completely. For one, I can't tell you how much I miss the booklets that used to come with their Blu-rays. I know that they needed to go to the leaflets to save on production costs, but I honestly wish that they offered a premium edition with the booklets. Maybe if they made a small printing, and for an extra $10, you could get the booklet and DigiPak cases. I know that would be a logistical nightmare, but I'm just spitballing, more than anything.

Originally Posted by hoytereden

Is there a list of titles that were originally issued as Digipaks but have since been reissued in plastic cases? I went to Costco some time ago when they were selling Tess and was a bit disappointed seeing it in a Scanavo case.

Yes! Thanks to Newsnayr on Reddit for compiling this list; it should help you quite a bit. It breaks down movies by media (DVD, Blu-ray, or both), and what changes have been made. It's the most comprehensive list I've seen.

If anybody sees something that needs updating, let me know, and I'll forward the information to them. Or, you can just send them a message if you're a member of the Criterion community on Reddit.

Originally Posted by Banned User

Amazing movie and Bluray. Doubt you will regret it. Still puzzled why Criterion hasn't released the film.

I'm inclined to say that they're waiting on me to order the import before doing so. Consider this a problem solved, as I'm putting in an order on Amazon UK tonight. The Passion of Joan of Arc and City Girl....come to papa!

Originally Posted by RickDee

I don't think criterion sells the artwork. I did not see that on their site

They do, indeed. Instead of going into a protracted explanation, I'll just share an earlier e-mail from Jon.

Hello William,

I hope this email finds you well.

It's true, we offer We offer replacement packaging, including
booklets, covers, and slip cases, for $5 each. This includes shipping
and handling (if you are in the United States). For example, if you
want a plastic case the total is $5, but if you want the case and
cover wrap the total is $10. If you would also like the booklet the
total would then be $15, and so on. Digipak replacements are the same,
the outer cover is $5 but with the inner digipak the total is $10. Payment can be made via PayPal to store@criterion.com. Please include
your name and address in the message field, along with the item(s) you
are ordering (please be as specific as possible), and as soon as we
receive payment, we'll ship them out to you!

That said, since this is your first time dealing with a broken case
I'm happy to go ahead and send you the ON THE WATERFRONT packaging
free of charge (if you are located in the United States). Please
respond to this email with proof of purchase and your mailing address
and I'll place it in the mail.

All the best,
Jon Mulvaney

Originally Posted by jmclick

Okay, number one on your list should be Nashville: it's currently available in a dual-format digipak; it was a Best Picture Oscar nominee; it's ranked 77 on the 2012 Sight & Sound Top 250 List; and it's one of my all-time favorite films, featuring outstanding performances and a great plot that is perfect for election-year viewing.

Next, I think you should strongly consider The Freshman, especially if you know you'll eventually pick up a copy. Again, it's currently available in dual-format digipak; why wait and risk missing out on your preferred packaging?

Your next choices should be governed by your heart and whims. In the mood for knock-your-socks-off Technicolor? Choose The Red Shoes. Want a classic comedy you can enjoy over and over again? It Happened One Night. Willing to let two great actresses plunge you into despair and bring you to the brink of suicide? Go for Autumn Sonata.

Actually, all the films on your list are worthwhile, and I could make a strong case for any of them. You can't lose!

You know, it's funny, Michael. As I was going to lay down for a few hours before dinner, I started thinking in an identical manner. I was already planning on buying Fanny and Alexander, first and foremost, because I wanted the film itself, and two, I wanted to ensure that I had the original packaging before any kind of a change was made (it's not a dual format release, but the packaging has to be expensive to produce) --then it dawned on me, these other films I am considering aren't likely going OOP before the next Barnes & Noble sale, which I think is in July. I'd be well served to buy up the films I want that are still available in DigiPak before they're gone. Nashville is an absolute must have. I've been reading Roger Ebert's Awake in the Dark, and he discusses Robert Altman and his movies extensively. Altman was already on my short list of directors to explore, and Ebert's praise of his work moved him to the forefront. I was able to acquire a copy of The Leopard in Digipak (thank you, Joshua), and so I need to consider the others I need to act on. The Freshman being one, The Battle of Algiers being another that intrigues me. I also love what I've seen from Francois Truffaut thus far, so Jules and Jim is another I have to consider getting now.

Lots to think about. I think my head is going to explode.

Thank you again, everybody, for your input. It is most appreciated.

[hoytereden]

Originally Posted by jmclick

Okay, number one on your list should be Nashville: it's currently available in a dual-format digipak; it was a Best Picture Oscar nominee; it's ranked 77 on the 2012 Sight & Sound Top 250 List; and it's one of my all-time favorite films, featuring outstanding performances and a great plot that is perfect for election-year viewing.

Next, I think you should strongly consider The Freshman, especially if you know you'll eventually pick up a copy. Again, it's currently available in dual-format digipak; why wait and risk missing out on your preferred packaging?

Your next choices should be governed by your heart and whims. In the mood for knock-your-socks-off Technicolor? Choose The Red Shoes. Want a classic comedy you can enjoy over and over again? It Happened One Night. Willing to let two great actresses plunge you into despair and bring you to the brink of suicide? Go for Autumn Sonata.

Actually, all the films on your list are worthwhile, and I could make a strong case for any of them. You can't lose!

Nashville is my current top pick for the next sale because I had completely forgotten one of my favorite actresses-Barbara Harris-is in it. I fell in love with her years ago when I first saw A Thousand Clowns. She didn't do a lot of films so this jumped way up on my wish list.

[theater dreamer]

Originally Posted by hoytereden

Nashville is my current top pick for the next sale because I had completely forgotten one of my favorite actresses-Barbara Harris-is in it. I fell in love with her years ago when I first saw A Thousand Clowns. She didn't do a lot of films so this jumped way up on my wish list.

Nashville has piqued my curiosity, to say the least. I'm not a fan of country music, but I love Americana. So while I might not fall for the songs interspersed throughout the film, I can be fascinated by the stories, and the men and women behind that music. I'm looking forward to seeing Altman's take on what was a rapidly evolving arena in the 1970s; I fully expect his film to be this wonderful confluence of popular culture and the struggle for political influence.

[AaronJ]

Originally Posted by theater dreamer

Agree completely. For one, I can't tell you how much I miss the booklets that used to come with their Blu-rays. I know that they needed to go to the leaflets to save on production costs, but I honestly wish that they offered a premium edition with the booklets. Maybe if they made a small printing, and for an extra $10, you could get the booklet and DigiPak cases. I know that would be a logistical nightmare, but I'm just spitballing, more than anything.

I think even ignoring the logistics problem, the other problem is that you would need to cover the costs of not only printing but getting someone to write the new essay(s)!

[theater dreamer]

Originally Posted by AaronJ

I think even ignoring the logistics problem, the other problem is that you would need to cover the costs of not only printing but getting someone to write the new essay(s)!

Darn, I wish I had some "cred" within film academia. I'd happily write their essays, and all it would cost them would be a free copy of the film.

[ravenus]

Actually print extras in general are cheaper to produce than video extras and can be used to supply content impossible to recreate on video (like archival print interviews with the actual makers).
From what has been said about this by various people representing home video labels, the problem is that, despite the effort taken to prepare good reading material, the bulk of customers do not regard them as "real" extras (many do not even read them). A release with no video featurettes but supplying a hefty booklet with great content is still referred to as barebones and relegated to the "should have been priced lower, am wait till it hits the bargain bin" pile.

Arrow's approach to this has been to have booklets as a feature limited to the first run of a release, which is fine, since re-prints typically have lower sale margins.

[mja345]

Originally Posted by theater dreamer

Nashville has piqued my curiosity, to say the least. I'm not a fan of country music, but I love Americana. So while I might not fall for the songs interspersed throughout the film, I can be fascinated by the stories, and the men and women behind that music. I'm looking forward to seeing Altman's take on what was a rapidly evolving arena in the 1970s; I fully expect his film to be this wonderful confluence of popular culture and the struggle for political influence.

"Nashville" is one of my top 10 films of all-time. It's one of the safest blind buys in the collection IMO. It's such a layered commentary on American life. It definitely doesn't require any interest in country music to enjoy it. In fact, someone who doesn't listen to country music would probably enjoy it more than a big country music fan. I first saw "Nashville" when my dad showed it to me when I was 14 or 15 years old and I think I've seen it about 10 times since then. I try to watch it once every year or two. It's a true masterpiece.

[Wooden Lens]

Originally Posted by mja345

"Nashville" is one of my top 10 films of all-time. It's one of the safest blind buys in the collection IMO. It's such a layered commentary on American life. It definitely doesn't require any interest in country music to enjoy it. In fact, someone who doesn't listen to country music would probably enjoy it more than a big country music fan. I first saw "Nashville" when my dad showed it to me when I was 14 or 15 years old and I think I've seen it about 10 times since then. I try to watch it once every year or two. It's a true masterpiece.

Great summary of what makes it great. From a technical level, Altman's juggling of characters and especially overlapping dialog is a total marvel to behold. Just watched my copy of this stacked release the other day and it's worth every penny.