Essential Films Worth Buying from The Criterion Collection

The Criterion Collection is a premier source for film enthusiasts, offering high-quality releases of classic and contemporary films with restored prints and extensive bonus materials. Among their most sought-after titles are those that capture both artistic merit and cultural significance. Here, we explore a selection of films that every serious cinephile should own, starting with some of the most lauded and influential titles in the collection.

Classics by Filmmaking Titans

Akira Kurosawa – ’Ran’
Akira Kurosawa's epic tale of honor and sacrifice is a visual and narrative masterpiece. This restoration captures the stunning cinematography and compelling narrative with renewed vigor.

Ingmar Bergman – ’The Seventh Seal’
This philosophical exploration of faith and mortality stands as a cornerstone of cinematic art. Kurosawa's Kagemusha is also a poignant study of truth and perspective, enriching the collection with another classic.

Art House Sensations

Wes Anderson – ’The Grand Budapest Hotel’
Wes Anderson's visually striking film merges humor and melancholy, creating a unique experience set in a fictional European hotel. The Criterion Collection enhances this with detailed bonus content, perfect for fans and critics alike.

Spike Lee – ’Do the Right Thing’
A vibrant and provocative film about race relations in America, known for its powerful performances and striking visuals. Despite the film's controversial nature, the collection enriches viewers with behind-the-scenes insights and critical essays.

Psychological Thrillers and Horror

Anthony Hopkins – ’Silence of the Lambs’
A chilling psychological thriller that has become a cinematic classic. This Criterion Collection release features unforgettable performances from Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins, along with in-depth analysis and commentary tracks.

Stanley Kubrick – ’A Clockwork Orange’
Kubrick's controversial and stylistically innovative film delves into the themes of free will and societal control. The Criterion Collection enhances the viewing with scholarly essays and interviews, making it a must-have for any cinephile.

Redefined Cinema with Teshigahara and Incidentals

Three Films by Hiroshi Teshigahara – Pitfall, Woman in the Dunes, and The Face of Another
Each film in this exclusive box set represents a unique exploration of Japanese cinema. The Face of Another stands out as a profound meditation on identity, with bonus materials and a detailed booklet to enhance your viewing experience.

The Man Who Fell to Earth – Nicholas Roeg
Alone, David Bowie’s role in this sci-fi classic sets it apart, but the Criterion Collection's release enriches it with a paperback novel adaptation and critical essays, providing a deeper understanding of the film's themes and artistic vision.

Carnival of Souls – Herk Harvey
This rare gem as one of the first arthouse horror films, directed by Kansas-based industrial filmmaker Herk Harvey, adds an eerie and captivating horror to the collection. Although the film has its moments of awkward dialogue, the Criterion Collection's release brings it to life in a new way, with a novella and insightful introductions.

Why Collect Criterion?

Each film in the Criterion Collection is not just a movie; it is an artistic and cultural achievement. The high-quality restoration and extensive bonus materials ensure that viewers can immerse themselves in the world of each film, enriching their understanding and appreciation. Whether you are a casual movie-watcher or a serious cinephile, the Criterion Collection offers a treasure trove of cinematic experiences that will stand the test of time.