The Criterion Collection

[Yankees0222]

Originally Posted by Benchman

With all this Woody Allen discussion I'm surprised no one has mentioned Midnight in Paris. I thought it was great and definitely one of his best.

I liked Midnight in Paris but just thought it was a bit overhyped.... It was certainly a novel idea though.... And I was glad to see him win the Academy Award for best original screenplay for it

[Hawkguy]

Originally Posted by Yankees0222

Also, although not my favorite, I really enjoy Scoop.... I feel that one is very underrated. I find it to be a really fun movie (and Scarlet is great in this movie. She and Woody have great chemistry in it)

I feel the same way. I liked that film a lot. I can't seem to understand why it's always regarded as one of the 'lesser' ones.

[BohemianGraham]

Originally Posted by oildude

I need to pick up the pace of my Eclipse set watching, especially the Japanese sets. I still need to watch Silent Ozu, Silent Naruse, Postwar Kurosawa, and the very first one I bought - Nikkatsu Noir. I have to add Late Ozu to the list, once it arrives. I had to order it on the first day of the sale since no B&N in the entire city had a copy.

Picked up Pearls of the Czech New Wave. This and the Ozu were my must buys, but I can afford a couple more.

Does anyone recommend - or not recommend - Eclipse 30: Sabu! ? I keep being tempted by this one every time I see it in the stores.

Me! Me! Me! I don't own it yet, because I've been trying to plough through the BD releases on my wishlist before I move onto Eclipse sets, but I really love the films in the set. I almost broke down and bought it this sale. It should really be called the Sabu/Korda set. However, much like The Four Feathers and Black Narcissus, the films can easily fall into "this is too much British Imperialist crap!" At least that's what Troll Central, aka IMDB claims.

The Sabu version of the Jungle Book is one of my faves, right up there with Walt's adaptation.

[BohemianGraham]

Also, FYI, La promesse is under 30 bucks on BD at Amazon Canada right now:

http://www.amazon.ca/Criterion-Colle...3120406&sr=8-1

[P@t_Mtl]

Originally Posted by ShellOilJunior

For many of these people TDKR may be the "best" film they see all year. Not to be a snob but some people view movies casually and amongst multi-plex drivel Nolan's films do standout.

The IMDB top 250 is a joke and not worth anyone's time. Most lists are a joke and flawed. Although, They Shoot Picture's list is more thought-out but rankings are meaningless, imo. It's a good list of films to watch if anything.

I don't see a problem for certain people seeing The Dark Knight Rises and for them it's a great movie (it's dabatable with me since I don't really like Nolan style of direction and movie making). I can actually understand how for certain people these type of movies can be seen as great movies when they compare them to other things like Transformers or the Titans movies. Not making a knock on these either, I enjoy these type of movies just as much as the next guy.

What I deplore is the sense of perspective of many here and all over the Internet. There is a total lack of perspective and knowledge of movie history on peoples part that is sad, very sad. This constant way they go "it's the greatest movie ever" phrase as become so ridiculous now. Every week there is a new greatest movie ever I am not saying they should stop watching the weekly release from Hollywood but they should make their view a little larger, see movies from around the world. Watch movies made before 1980.

[P@t_Mtl]

Originally Posted by BohemianGraham

Me! Me! Me! I don't own it yet, because I've been trying to plough through the BD releases on my wishlist before I move onto Eclipse sets, but I really love the films in the set. I almost broke down and bought it this sale. It should really be called the Sabu/Korda set. However, much like The Four Feathers and Black Narcissus, the films can easily fall into "this is too much British Imperialist crap!" At least that's what Troll Central, aka IMDB claims.

The Sabu version of the Jungle Book is one of my faves, right up there with Walt's adaptation.

After much pushing an waiting to buy other things, the Sabu set is on it's way to me. The movies are a bit "British" yes but I do agree with you about Jungle Book, very good movie

[BohemianGraham]

Originally Posted by P@t_Mtl

After much pushing an waiting to buy other things, the Sabu set is on it's way to me. The movies are a bit "British" yes but I do agree with you about Jungle Book, very good movie

My mom has a crappy public domain version of it on DvD. She's a big fan of the Sabu films too, and not because of Sabu, but because they are just damn good films.

[exolstice]

Originally Posted by P@t_Mtl

I don't see a problem for certain people seeing The Dark Knight Rises and for them it's a great movie (it's dabatable with me since I don't really like Nolan style of direction and movie making). I can actually understand how for certain people these type of movies can be seen as great movies when they compare them to other things like Transformers or the Titans movies. Not making a knock on these either, I enjoy these type of movies just as much as the next guy.

What I deplore is the sense of perspective of many here and all over the Internet. There is a total lack of perspective and knowledge of movie history on peoples part that is sad, very sad. This constant way they go "it's the greatest movie ever" phrase as become so ridiculous now. Every week there is a new greatest movie ever I am not saying they should stop watching the weekly release from Hollywood but they should make their view a little larger, see movies from around the world. Watch movies made before 1980.

I'm completely guilty of this. Although I use the phrase "Best Movie Ever" semi-ironically to describe any film that meets or exceeds my expectations.

[BohemianGraham]

Originally Posted by exolstice

I'm completely guilty of this. Although I use the phrase "Best Movie Ever" semi-ironically to describe any film that meets or exceeds my expectations.

I tend to add thr qualifier of genre, decade, or say one of the best, never straight up the best.

I do, however, say this is the best book ever a lot, after reading something thative really enjoyed.

[blujazz]

Re: Woody Allen

Midnight in Paris - Three reasons why I hated it.
1. The opening sequence of Parisian shots filmed through sepia for five minutes was way too much. Sure, it establishes the fantasy version of Paris but it felt like it was overselling itself.
2. The time travel idea was rather nice, but for some reason the namedropping felt like an exercise for literature students to flex their muscles.
3. The wife and the family of the Woody Allen surrogate was just so reprehensable and vile. Surely, they needn't to be that horrid for us to empathise with his hero?

Vicky Christina Barcelona - Three reasons why I love it.
1. Vicky and Christina did not learn anything. Cynical and possibly more realistic than one would think.
2. Penelope Cruz had this fire that seriously transcended the screen. Woody Allen paranoia transposed to feminine hysteria.
3. The narration was spoken above the characters, which undercut the sepia and romanticism of the film itself.

Here's a potato. ()

[Beta Man]

118 more likes to go on Facebook........

Originally Posted by Snicket

Used another $8 coupon with no issue to get breathless for $10.xx the packaging is pretty cool, I love the black and orange spine, it stands out on my shelf.

I laughed

[mzupeman]

Originally Posted by P@t_Mtl

I don't see a problem for certain people seeing The Dark Knight Rises and for them it's a great movie (it's dabatable with me since I don't really like Nolan style of direction and movie making). I can actually understand how for certain people these type of movies can be seen as great movies when they compare them to other things like Transformers or the Titans movies. Not making a knock on these either, I enjoy these type of movies just as much as the next guy.

What I deplore is the sense of perspective of many here and all over the Internet. There is a total lack of perspective and knowledge of movie history on peoples part that is sad, very sad. This constant way they go "it's the greatest movie ever" phrase as become so ridiculous now. Every week there is a new greatest movie ever I am not saying they should stop watching the weekly release from Hollywood but they should make their view a little larger, see movies from around the world. Watch movies made before 1980.

It isn't sad. We have a genuine interest in film and film history... not everyone does. I'm certain there are plenty of things you only have average interest in, yet aren't an expert on those particular subjects.

[Abdrewes]

Originally Posted by P@t_Mtl

I don't see a problem for certain people seeing The Dark Knight Rises and for them it's a great movie (it's dabatable with me since I don't really like Nolan style of direction and movie making). I can actually understand how for certain people these type of movies can be seen as great movies when they compare them to other things like Transformers or the Titans movies. Not making a knock on these either, I enjoy these type of movies just as much as the next guy.

What I deplore is the sense of perspective of many here and all over the Internet. There is a total lack of perspective and knowledge of movie history on peoples part that is sad, very sad. This constant way they go "it's the greatest movie ever" phrase as become so ridiculous now. Every week there is a new greatest movie ever I am not saying they should stop watching the weekly release from Hollywood but they should make their view a little larger, see movies from around the world. Watch movies made before 1980.

That sounds a bit elitist. There are plenty of cine-literate people that lauded the film. Trust me I know a few of those no-no-too-old-for-me type of viewers, but it's nice to see people on board for nicely shot, tightly plotted, intelligent blockbusters. Nolan has really crafted some of the more intelligent blockbusters of recent years. Considering the blockbuster is many peoples diet,after these films people may start rejecting the junkfood blockbuster I.e. Michael Bay. Big budget films don't have to be drool....stoopid.

Granted it's not a great film, not all films are as great as Late Spring.

[BohemianGraham]

Originally Posted by Abdrewes

That sounds a bit elitist. There are plenty of cine-literate people that lauded the film. Trust me I know a few of those no-no-too-old-for-me type of viewers, but it's nice to see people on board for nicely shot, tightly plotted, intelligent blockbusters. Nolan has really crafted some of the more intelligent blockbusters of recent years. Considering the blockbuster is many peoples diet,after these films people may start rejecting the junkfood blockbuster I.e. Michael Bay. Big budget films don't have to be drool....stoopid.

Granted it's not a great film, not all films are as great as Late Spring.

Couldn't you make the same arguments for what is and isn't included in the Criterion collection? That some people get to be a little too elitist when it comes to that?

I have no issue with people enjoying TDKR, I just feel that perhaps it should not be in a top ten list so rapidly after its release. Perhaps in a few months when more people have viewed it, and the ratings aren't so skewed by fanboys.

[Banned User]

Originally Posted by Banned User

So far I've watched all the films and special features except for Brief Encounter.

The set really starts off with a bang with In Which We Serve. Right out of the gate its obvious David Lean has complete control in the editing room and on the set. Eisensteins' influence is easily seen here with the quick cuts and lengthy montages using the set, stock footage and footage shot on real ships all perfectly matched. The narration at the beginning states this film is about a ship and within a few minutes we see the ship built then sunk. The rest of the film is show in flashback sequences and delve into each of the soldiers lives and shows what they are fighting for. Unlike a lot of the propaganda films at the time it still holds up nicely. It is mostly drama with a little action mostly shown in montage.

This Happy Breed follows a family through 2 decades. From the end of WW1 to the beginning of WW2. None of the war is shown or really spoke about in the movie though Lean shows just enough to give you historical context. The family moves in to a house at the beginning of the film and leaves at the end. Being a play the majority of the film happens in this house. This is another drama with some humor thrown in. It really kept my attention and so far I think I've enjoyed this film the most. Celia Johnson really shines here. What a great actress.

Blithe Spirit has some really great witty dialog and some pretty funny moments. Being a comedy though I really expected a lot more humor. Maybe it was my expectations and a second viewing will do the trick. Still its a good movie and Margaret Rutherford really steals the show with her eccentric Madame Arcati character. Its worth a viewing just for her. Many consider this the best film in the set next to Brief Encounter. I had a issue or two with some of the characters reactions to things that happen in the story, but I can't go into detail without spoiling the film.

I think you will find most people would disagree with my take on Blithe Spirit so take my impressions with a grain of salt.

Hope that helps. Personally I think the set is great and look forward to revisiting some of these movies. The book with the set mentions these films and others of Leans' have been restored with money from the Lean foundation so one can hope Criterion will be releasing Great Expectations and Oliver Twist in the near future.

I'm quoting myself because well frankly it took a lot of effort to type it up plus I finally got around to finishing the boxset.

I have to agree with other reviewers and articles that Brief Encounter is the best film in the set by far. It really should be held up there with Casablanca in the pantheon of romance films. The black and white photography and lighting are a wonder to behold and the writing/acting superb. Again I think Celia Johnson steals the show. She was such a wonderful actress I'll now be forced to hunt down other movies of hers.
The story is simple, but the film is utterly perfect IMO. Plus from what I've read the film seems to really resonate with women. So buy this one for your girlfriends/wives.


Not Criterion related, but since there is no longer a StudioCanal thread: I have La Grande Illusions Preordered and noticed the Region A release is missing 2 special features. I also assume it does not come with a booklet like the UK version does. Has anyone ever purchased one of the UK StudioCanal releases and if so care to give some impressions on the book style case and booklet etc?

[P@t_Mtl]

Originally Posted by mzupeman

It isn't sad. We have a genuine interest in film and film history... not everyone does. I'm certain there are plenty of things you only have average interest in, yet aren't an expert on those particular subjects.

Yes I do and I don't go "It's the greatest ever" everytime I discover something.

Example for many years I enjoy a good whisky once in a while. Recently I started discovery cognac. Now I don't go "this is the best cognac ever I just came in my pants " everytime I discover a new one. Maybe it's just me but I just find the entire notion ridiculous, sorry if everyone disagre.

[P@t_Mtl]

Originally Posted by Abdrewes

That sounds a bit elitist. There are plenty of cine-literate people that lauded the film. Trust me I know a few of those no-no-too-old-for-me type of viewers, but it's nice to see people on board for nicely shot, tightly plotted, intelligent blockbusters. Nolan has really crafted some of the more intelligent blockbusters of recent years. Considering the blockbuster is many peoples diet,after these films people may start rejecting the junkfood blockbuster I.e. Michael Bay. Big budget films don't have to be drool....stoopid.

Granted it's not a great film, not all films are as great as Late Spring.

Again I have no problem with them enjoying The Dark Knight Rises, I enjoy plenty of style of movies. It's the whole notion that everything they see that is new from week to week "is the best ever" that I find ridiculous.

[Banned User]

Originally Posted by P@t_Mtl

Again I have no problem with them enjoying The Dark Knight Rises, I enjoy plenty of style of movies. It's the whole notion that everything they see that is new from week to week "is the best ever" that I find ridiculous.

Best Post ever!!!

[AronofskyFan]

Having just been blown away by The Turin Horse, I now have caught the fever to see the rest of Bela Tarr's films. Does anyone know if Criterion has any plans to release a Werckmeister Harmonies, Satantango, or Damnation? I know Criterion has released some IFC films in the past and they have The Man from London. If my love of The Turin Horse and the reputation of these films are any indication, these will be first day buys for me and I would love to see them get fantastic treatment by whoever ends up releasing them.

[ShellOilJunior]

Originally Posted by jrsl76

Hiroshima mon amour is a spectacular film.

The most overdue upgrade in the entire collection, imo.

They should have upgraded it when they were working with Resnais on Marienbad 3 years ago.