A Criterion Collection film is more than just a movie; it’s a cinematic artifact recognized for its artistic significance, technical merit, and cultural impact. These films, meticulously selected and lovingly restored, represent the best in cinema history, offering viewers not just entertainment, but a deep dive into the art form through meticulously curated special features and supplemental materials.
The Criterion Collection: A Curator of Cinematic Excellence
The Criterion Collection stands apart in the world of home media. Unlike mainstream distributors focused solely on profit, Criterion operates as a curator, selecting films based on artistic value and historical importance. This selection process transforms movies from disposable entertainment into valuable works of art, worthy of preservation and study. While subjective taste inevitably plays a role, the core criteria remain relatively consistent: artistic merit, technical achievement, historical significance, and lasting cultural impact.
The selection process is rigorous, involving a team of curators, historians, filmmakers, and critics. This process ensures that each film added to the Criterion Collection meets the high standards the company has set for itself over decades. It’s not about popularity; it’s about influence, innovation, and lasting artistic value.
The Technical Restoration Process
A key aspect of what makes a Criterion movie special is the painstaking restoration process. Many older films suffer from degradation over time, with scratches, fading, and other issues affecting the viewing experience. Criterion invests heavily in restoring these films to their original glory. This involves:
- Sourcing the best available print: Often, this means searching for original negatives or early release prints in the best possible condition.
- Digital restoration: Using state-of-the-art technology to remove imperfections, stabilize images, and correct color.
- Audio restoration: Cleaning up the soundtrack, removing noise, and enhancing clarity.
This meticulous process ensures that viewers can experience the film as close as possible to its original theatrical release, often surpassing the quality of even contemporary home video releases.
The Significance of Supplemental Materials
Beyond the restored film itself, Criterion releases are renowned for their extensive supplemental materials. These are not simply trailers and promotional fluff. Instead, they offer a deep dive into the film’s creation, context, and legacy. Common features include:
- Audio commentaries: Featuring the director, actors, film historians, or critics, offering insights into the film’s production and themes.
- Documentaries: Exploring the film’s history, its impact on cinema, and the lives of the filmmakers and actors involved.
- Interviews: With cast, crew, and experts, providing diverse perspectives on the film.
- Essays: Written by prominent film critics and historians, offering in-depth analysis and context.
- Deleted scenes: Providing a glimpse into the filmmaking process and alternate versions of the story.
These supplemental materials transform the viewing experience from passive entertainment to active learning, allowing viewers to engage with the film on a deeper level. They provide context, analysis, and historical perspective, enriching our understanding and appreciation of the art of filmmaking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Criterion Movies
Here are some frequently asked questions that provide further clarity on what constitutes a Criterion movie:
FAQ 1: Does a Criterion movie have to be old?
No. While Criterion is known for releasing classic films, they also include contemporary movies that they believe possess lasting artistic merit. It’s the quality and cultural significance, not the age, that matters. Many films released in the 21st century have found their way into the collection, often after gaining critical acclaim and influencing filmmaking.
FAQ 2: Are all Criterion movies foreign films?
Definitely not. The Criterion Collection encompasses films from all over the world, including American films. While there is a strong emphasis on international cinema, recognizing the diversity and richness of global filmmaking, American classics and contemporary independent films are also well-represented.
FAQ 3: Does Criterion only release art-house films?
While Criterion does feature many art-house films, known for their experimental and challenging nature, they also release movies from various genres. The key is that even genre films must demonstrate exceptional artistic quality and cultural significance. You’ll find everything from noir and science fiction to comedy and horror within the collection.
FAQ 4: How are movies chosen for the Criterion Collection?
The selection process is complex and involves input from Criterion’s staff, film historians, critics, and filmmakers. The primary criteria are artistic merit, technical achievement, historical significance, and lasting cultural impact. Films are thoroughly evaluated and debated before a final decision is made.
FAQ 5: What is the significance of the spine number on Criterion releases?
The spine number is a unique identifier assigned to each title in the Criterion Collection. While it has no bearing on the quality or importance of the film, it serves as a way to organize and catalog the collection. Many collectors strive to acquire releases in numerical order, viewing it as a comprehensive exploration of cinema history.
FAQ 6: What is the difference between Criterion and other Blu-ray releases?
The key difference lies in the meticulous restoration process and the depth of supplemental materials. Criterion goes to great lengths to ensure the highest possible picture and sound quality, often exceeding the quality of standard Blu-ray releases. The extensive supplemental features provide unparalleled context and analysis.
FAQ 7: Is it expensive to collect Criterion movies?
Criterion releases generally come at a premium price compared to standard Blu-rays or DVDs. This reflects the cost of restoration, supplemental materials, and licensing fees. However, many collectors consider the investment worthwhile due to the superior quality and lasting value of the films. Sales events and online retailers offer opportunities to purchase Criterion movies at discounted prices.
FAQ 8: Does Criterion only release physical media (DVDs and Blu-rays)?
No. While Criterion is best known for its physical media releases, they also operate a streaming service called The Criterion Channel. This platform offers a curated selection of films from the Criterion Collection, as well as other classic and contemporary movies.
FAQ 9: How can I suggest a movie for the Criterion Collection?
Criterion does not typically accept unsolicited submissions. However, they are aware of the films being discussed and celebrated within the film community. Passionate advocacy and critical acclaim can certainly influence their selection process.
FAQ 10: What if a Criterion movie goes out of print?
Unfortunately, some Criterion movies do go out of print due to licensing agreements or other factors. Out-of-print Criterion releases can become highly sought after by collectors, often fetching significant prices on the secondary market.
FAQ 11: Does a Criterion release guarantee a film is “good”?
While Criterion films are selected based on specific criteria, ultimately, taste is subjective. A Criterion release doesn’t guarantee universal enjoyment, but it signifies that the film is considered to be of significant artistic, technical, or cultural value.
FAQ 12: How often does Criterion add new films to its collection?
Criterion typically announces new additions to its collection on a monthly basis. These announcements generate considerable excitement within the film community, as collectors eagerly anticipate the next treasures to be added to the Criterion catalog.
The Enduring Legacy of the Criterion Collection
The Criterion Collection is more than just a distributor; it’s an institution. It has played a vital role in preserving and promoting cinematic history, making important films accessible to a wider audience. By emphasizing quality, context, and accessibility, Criterion has elevated the home viewing experience and fostered a deeper appreciation for the art of filmmaking. Its enduring legacy will continue to shape how we understand and engage with cinema for generations to come.