Is THIS the future of the CRITERION COLLECTION? - New 4K Blu-ray announcements

These are my thoughts on the latest announcements from the Criterion Collection regarding their forthcoming blu-ray and 4K UHD releases.

[@ElliotCoen]

What do you think about the latest announcements? Are Criterion still the top label for you? Thanks for watching!

[@xephael3485]

No they don't care about the movies, they care about the profit. They would sell you an empty case what's the Netflix link in it if you let them

[@ColombianThunder]

@@xephael3485 that's an extreme exaggeration LMAO. I get it, recent releases haven't been up to par but your claim is so absurd it's just laughable

[@xephael3485]

@@ColombianThunder at first they laugh...

[@BirdArvid]

Criterion will be the top label for me until someone else starts releasing the films I want and Criterion stop doing so; but I don't see that happening any time soon, so the backbone of my collecting since 2010 or thereabouts has been Criterion, interspersed with a sprinkling of other boutique labels and mainstream studio releases. I buy the films I want, irrespective of label; it's just that 90% what I want is on Criterion.. I have still to buy any of their 4k releases, because I either A: owned the disc on Blu-ray (Citizen Kane) and didn't need/prioritise upgrading the film, or B: I have the film on my wish-list but there's a ton of other stuff ahead of it in the queue. Simple as that. I feel Criterion's 1080p releases are so good that I don't need to rush out and double-dip; I also just don't have the funds to do so. I try to keep reminding myself that it's the films and the feelings they give me which is the focal point in my collecting, not the bragging rights, having fancy 4k's on the shelf..

[@AnjektusStudio]

@@xephael3485 There is a big hole in your comment that makes me Rolling in laughter on the floor. A company that are making their money out of getting licence for realesing films on bluray would never sell a box whit a link to Netflix. So nice try to get people angry at you. As you only are a. Ytube-troll.

[@ajzeg01]

On Thelma and Louise, you’re acting like this is the first time Criterion has ever put out a popular film, which simply isn’t true. They’ve put out many popular films, they have been doing it for years. They need the bigger titles in the collection because they sell more and help fund future restoration efforts.

[@ElliotCoen]

Oh I know well that it isn’t the first popular title in the collection. It’s that the frequency of said titles has increased a lot compared to what it was just a couple of years ago. I’m all for the bigger titles funding the smaller exciting ones. I just hope we see more of those soon! Thanks for watching!

[@iakona23]

@@ElliotCoenI don’t care if the movies released are popular or not. It’s just that their overall choices of movies released in recent months and years along with packaging and special features have really gone downhill and gotten less appealing and less interesting. I’d much rather choose from the Kino-Lorber releases each month. More numerous and more exciting films and Kino-Lorber gives you audio commentary tracks on almost every release, along with sometimes alternate cover art and even slipcovers on some. Other boutique labels are also releasing more interesting films. Where is the next great box set from Criterion, preferably 4K UHD, from Michael Powell, Akira Kurosawa, Roberto Rossellini, Kieslowski, Truffaut, Melville, Fuller, Preston Sturges, etc. etc. ?

[@davidvolsky7713]

@@iakona23 Yes! I never replaced my Kurosawa Criterion DVDs with Blu-rays in anticipation of a 4K upgrade which is yet to happen. I keep thinking, as soon as I pay the higher price that Criterion asks for their products, they'll announce a 4K release.

[@iakona23]

@@davidvolsky7713 I know the feeling.and until that day I’m watching on the Criterion Channel.

[@andrewstearns9276]

I agree with the popular releases, but then do 2-3 new popular releases instead of only one and two upgrades 😡

[@thomaswilke6312]

I think criterion needs to release a few mainstream movies in order to pay the bills and keep the lights on. I remember reading that some of their biggest sellers were commercial blockbuster movies like The Breakfast Club, and The Irishman, The Silence of the Lambs, and Parasite.

[@augustomontes8202]

Apparently this idea is foreign to Elliot Coen. Arrow Video, Kino Lorber, and others do the exact same thing.

[@mrsbaylocksvideoemporium9621]

Thelma and Louise is a FABULOUS film!!! It has been a glaring omission from all of the top boutique label special edition treatments. The cinematography, score and narrative are so special. I for one am thrilled with this announcement. It could only have been bettered if it was a fat, rigid box set from Second Sight.

[@doubleleftclick]

100% agree.

[@willnoiles2001]

I too am excited to pick up 'Thelma and Louise' on 4K from Criterion. My only issue is that most of the special features are from the original studio DVD. Aside from a newly filmed interview with Ridley Scott and one of his first shorts, the rest of the special features are over a decade old. I used to love Criterion releases for the amount of new special features they included, but sadly in the last couple years I've been quite disappointed with the number of new special features they're including. It's quite disappointing really.

[@GaryHighFruit]

T&L "narrative is so special." By special, do you mean mentally handicapped?

[@mrsbaylocksvideoemporium9621]

@@ingefossen8499 I have that special edition from way back in 2002. The cardboard sleeve is well worn from repeated viewings. What a wonderful release it was and a very special film 🎦

[@lurcharoni]

Thelma and Louise i think fits perfectly in the collection. It truly does have an indie film narrative complete with that ending. Great soundtrack, superb cinematography. I mean it made about $40million at box office. Still a measly take compared to Silence of the Lambs with its $270 million. That movie was ignored by all media companies for 30 years. Kudos to Criterion!

[@jnagarya519]

The media made everything about the film as a positive feminist breakthrough for women: finally, women are equal to men because they are being VIOLENT. Nothing special about the film -- "freedom" is about being VIOLENT.

[@HoorayTV21]

...........ignored..........wha? Were you born in 2000? The film was a fucking meme. Everyone and his brother saw that film. This isn't Johnny Suede this is one of the big movies of the 90's.

[@jnagarya519]

@@HoorayTV21 Yes: "Thelma and Louise" was a "meme". EVERYBODY was jabbering about it. None of which made it a great movie, or actually anything new. It was about two women imitating male behavior in order to be "liberated". "Liberated" from what -- not using violence to get one's way? It was nothing more than the typical "buddy" picture with women put in the male roles.

[@jnagarya519]

@@ingefossen8499 Perhaps the most important Criterion in the last several months is Zeffirelli's "Romeo and Juliet".

[@TheInitiation]

My approach is this: if I already own the Criterion release on bluray, I won't upgrade it to 4K, not worth it and I don't even stress about it, their transfers are almost always excellent on bluray already. I don't see ANY point upgrading my Night of the Living Dead for example for that price. If I don't already own it, and the 4k is available, AND it is a movie that really benefits 4K, only then I will buy the 4K over bluray.

[@tompoynton]

bingo

[@BirdArvid]

Agree, and feel the same way; I have yet to upgrade any of my CC Blu-ray's to 4k; in fact, I've done that with very few films in my entire collection. On a good 4k tv, with a good 4k-player, regular Blu-ray's have been given a new lease of life, and I've rediscovered several films in my collection after getting my 4k tv.

[@marcjohnson3553]

@@BirdArvid May I ask what 4K TV you have?

[@tompoynton]

@@BirdArvid If I don’t have that movie already then I will seek out the 4K and I think most people will do the same at some point, but as you say even just watching an upscale blu-ray on a decent 4K TV can be fantastic, especially if it has had a good treatment already (from a 4k scan).

[@simonfilmfan4899]

@@BirdArvid The Blu-rays look brighter than 4K as well.

[@johnnewton5362]

I think you’re forgetting that most of us don’t already have hundreds upon hundreds of Criterion blu-rays. I’ve got like five. So when I see a great film come out on 4K, I get excited. When you see a film you already own get re-released on 4K, you’re disappointed there’s not some extra reason to buy it. Personally I’d usually prefer they not make it some sort of extra special release because that would mean extra special price tag.

[@Indremafan]

PREACH! 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻

[@OGMillwood]

I honestly haven't thought of Criterion as a leader in this space for some time. Walkabout is one of my favourite films, and I had owned the Criterion DVD since release. Second Sight's recent LE blows everything out of the water, and now feels like the definitive edition of the film. It just feels like a lot of other labels are smashing through ceilings with their love and care for their releases, and Criterion seems to be phoning it in on the success of their own history.

[@cut0love0copy]

I think you make some good points here, but I gotta say seeing the Thelma & Louise 4k release absolutely thrilled me. It’s a pretty sacred film to me, so this one might be geared towards the growing number of women collecting films. Meanwhile, Kino Lorber is also getting a growing chunk of my paychecks…

[@logancoleman3915]

I would expect more from the 4K releases if they were substantially more expensive than their BR counterparts. I just see them as another option depending on your preferred format.

[@ElliotCoen]

True if you don’t already own the existing blu-ray, but if you do and you want the 4K, your extra $50 (RRP) isn’t going as far as it would with other film labels out there

[@mmagiraffe]

You’d probably make more blu-ray owners unhappy if you made special features exclusive to the 4K, then 4K owners happy that they get stuff the blu-ray owners don’t.

[@Indremafan]

@@mmagiraffeit’s their own damn fault if they can’t handle paying $5 more for the 4K Blu Ray 🤔🤣🤡

[@Indremafan]

@@ElliotCoenit’s only $25 during the sale, no need to spend $50 ever 🤔

[@444chroma]

Thelma and Louise is another one off my wishlist! I'm glad Criterion is handling it. 😊

[@travisspazz1624]

Thelma and Louise is great and if a big studio wasn't going to give it a 4k release I see no problem with criterion releasing it. I think it's a no lose scenario.

[@suohlad]

I wholeheartedly agree with what you’re saying. It feels like Radiance is releasing the films I’d like Critetion to release, the types of lost gems that once used to surface more often in the Criterion Collection. I understand why it’s happening, it’s just a little sad. Very happy about Targets though.

[@skyemoviesF89]

You can’t really say that it’s mostly obscure films that fit into the Criterion Collection when they have previously released low brow, mainstream, blockbuster fare such as The Rock and Armageddon as part of the collection. I think Thelma & Louise is certainly a worthy film for Criterion. Where I think they seriously fall down is that they have long since stopped being anywhere near the leaders amongst themselves he best Blu-Ray boutique labels. Arrow, Second Sight, Indicator and many others take far more effort to make their releases as packed with extras, both on disc and physical as possible whereas Criterion have made far less effort to release the definitive versions of films when they certainly were the best at one time.

[@richellebrittain2127]

The deal with Thelma & Louise going to Criterion isn't Criterion needing bigger titles; it's that it's not big enough for its owner MGM to put on 4K. To my knowledge, the only MGM-owned titles to get a 4K release from MGM's own distributors (first Fox, now SDS with generally catalog titles from WB & new releases from Universal) have been the Daniel Craig Bond films, and coming in the next month Rockys I-IV. All other 4Ks from MGM's own vaults (as opposed to the WB-owned Turner library) have been licensed to boutique labels: The Apartment, the Dollars Trilogy, In the Heat of the Night & The Silence of the Lambs to Kino Lorber; Platoon to Shout! Factory; The Princess Bride to Turbine Medien in Germany; soon Rain Man to MVD Visual (just to name a few). Reportedly they're only doing the Rockys in-house because a boutique label first agreed to release them but bailed out. (Edit: It probably also involves the spinoff Creed franchise, co-produced by MGM & WB but WB-owned for home video; the timing of the Rockys is tied to Creed III hitting theaters.) It's MGM, not Criterion, that only wants to drop its big-bucks titles on 4K; Thelma & Louise isn't big enough for MGM as it's not a franchise (all the pre-Craig Bonds are out on 4K streaming and widely expected to hit 4K Blu-ray in the next few years).

[@SebastianGroebner]

I understand your points regarding the updates to 4K. And yes, I agree. There could be a better celebration of these updates with a better packaging and special features. That being said, I disagree with your take on Thelma & Louise. Entirely. It's a bloody fantastic which deserves to be in the Collection and on 4K. It fits beautifully into their approach to preserve "important classic and contemporary films". And - from the business and the artistic side - it completely makes sense to add some "bigger", less obscure titles to the Collection 4K, because this will introduce a whole new bunch of people to the Collection itself. Yes, also in a way Criterion is staying true to themselves and their mission.

[@84paratize]

I agree with pretty much everything you said except for perhaps the Thelma & Louise issue - you stated that if Criterion didn't put it out, surely it would get a good 4K release anyway, but that's not necessarily the case - clearly, the company that owns the film licensed it to Criterion because they didn't care to put it out themselves. If they did want to, then they wouldn't have licensed it to Criterion; at least that's my thinking. Also, I'm happy to have Criterion put out "bigger" films like T&L so long as that means they get more money to also put out "smaller" films like Targets.

[@ronp5293]

To my mind its nothing unusual for Criterion to prioritize a more mainstream commercial release for 4k treatment (Robocop...Spinal Tap...) Hopefully, the money generated will enable to them to do the same for one of the more obscure ones later on. I personally would be interested in seeing them up their game as far as packaging goes. It would be nice to have the option to purchase something more hi end like that from them. Best transfer. Best presentation.

[@romualdspizans3163]

.Criterion never been exclusively for art films.They have been releasing commercial mainstream stuff too, since Laser disc days."Armageddon,"1998,Rock 1996 in fact were released by criterion on ld and dvd.And there's nothing wrong with that.These days big Hollywood studios rarely release anything in 4k from catalog,especially Disney whom Thelma&Louise belongs.And i doubt that disney will release themselves it on 4k.So its actually amazing news,that movie collectors should welcome

[@SamLovesMovies25]

For me, having the *film itself* in the BEST possible quality is TOP PRIORITY, and the MOST important thing. Things like packaging and special features are great and I enjoy them, but are more "secondary" to me. If I had the choice between a Blu Ray with lots of special features and nice packaging, or a 4K with basic packaging and no special features but it has a BETTER transfer of the FILM, I would choose the 4K. Just my personal preference, of course (although realistically, in that situation I would probably swap the 4K disc into the nicer packaging and keep the Blu Ray stored away so I can still go back to the special features)

[@SamLovesMovies25]

For me, getting ONLY that improved transfer and uptick in detail, with everything else being the same, is (while definitely not 100% ideal), is still something I want, because as I explained, I get the thing that is the MOST important to me: the film *itself* in the BEST quality

[@jmw06003]

Criterion Laserdisc collector here, and let me lend some context: 1) popular movies among more underground movies has been their MO for nearly 40 years. 2) not upgrading their special features is frustrating, but nothing new. The laserdisc of Sid and Nancy has the same supplements as the blu ray.

[@modestyblaise4167]

Delighted this got a Criterion 4K release here in the U.K. It’s a superb movie and I wouldn’t want it on any other label because I knew the quality would be superb, extras would be enjoyable and the package a solid one. I wasn’t disappointed on any level.

[@Lanosrep]

I feel like It would be unfair to Blu Ray owners to have special features locked behind 4K and another purchase. If a 4K release is 10 years after Blu Ray, and with a brand new transfer, then of course, go back and make/ find some more special features. But a 4K update just a few years later or on the same day, (especially coming from the same transfer as the 1080p discs) having more special features over the blu ray? That would just be dirty and bad practice

[@ElliotCoen]

Wings of Desire came out 14 years ago on the Criterion blu and Branded to Kill came out 12 years ago. There’s absolutely nothing unfair about adding more extra content to these new 4K discs in my opinion. But yea I agree with you, same day 4K and Blu releases should have the same content. No problem with me there!

[@Lanosrep]

@@ElliotCoen oh that’s my misunderstanding. Yes those releases should have added something more

[@xephael3485]

Oh no, it's not fair! 🤣 You're basically negotiating with these bastards about how deep and hard they're going to screw you.

[@NerdTheoryChannel]

I haven't been blown away this year, but then again, its after the holidays when people cut back spending. Personally, I don't mind a more popular title coming around as a release because you still have 3 to 4 more lesser knowns to discover that month. Most are cutting back spending right now as are businesses, so let Criterion do what they feel is best to stay afloat as best they can. Im personally looking forward to Petite Maman from the director of Portrait of a Woman on Fire and Branded to Kill. All we can do is vote with our wallets, but that's just my thought... doesn't mean much in the long run

[@AkAkAkNeil]

man you have outstanding visuals and sound. I really like this subdued background. I guess it makes sense you think about the shot, given your interest in film!

[@augustomontes8202]

I'm very glad Criterion's 4K are exactly the same as their bluray. I hope they keep doing this.

[@wobbiethewobster6826]

I haven't gotten into criterion but was thinking about it what would you say is a good starter pack or beginner ones too get me started?

[@Maximusbyronus]

I was ecstatic when Criterion announced they were releasing Thelma and Louise. Such a great film, one of Ridley Scott's best, and the timing of the release couldn't be better.

[@contif]

So glad you’re speaking out…I think any rational and intelligent feedback would be appreciated by Criterion because that’s the only way they can continue to improve and have happier cinephiles. But some of the newer covers (i.e. In the Mood for Love, Rules of the Game, etc.) were a letdown…but I am the minority in this!

[@dravenlee4473]

I guess one more comment. I think boutique labels have really caught up with Criterion. Criterion is certainly still highly regarded but I'm a huge fan of SecondSight, BFI, Vinegar Syndrome, Arrow and Shout to name several. I'm in the USA and if BFI or SecondSight releases something, I'm importing it right away because I trust them and know what they will match or even surpass what Criterion is doing. Criterion just isn't our only option anymore for great releases.

[@Bears4i]

Thanks for the information regarding the 4k release of Picnic at Hanging Rock, it's one of my favourite movies 😀 and without your video it would have gone unnoticed by me.

[@ElliotCoen]

My pleasure! It looks like it’s gonna be a great release :)

[@user-rh3qb5dz7z]

I've been wondering why Criterion hasn't jumped @ the chance to release "Zabriskie Point". That is one film that seems to exist in some kind of odd limbo state. A thorough re-release w/all the trimmings would be a welcome sight!

[@ZodsSnappedNeck]

Criterion not adding HDR to most of their releases is the biggest sin to me

[@ElliotCoen]

That has become a bit of a trend, other labels are doing this too!

[@MrCREWCRUSHIN95]

4K without HDR or DOLBY VISION is utterly pointless. HDR is the real revolution- not the modest resolution bump

[@jonhinson5701]

If Criterion asked me, and of course they won’t, I would love to see the 1961 version of the Haunting, Fargo and Amelie among the new Criterion releases.

[@MarcelLambert2009]

They did something, they increase there pricing. Some of their new release in 4K have a price of 6 to 7 time the original blu-rays, Dazed and Confused can be bought ON SALE in Canada for $63, 13 + 15% taxes, the old bluray was avaiable for under $10.00. So they did not do nothing.

[@jamesmellish3874]

Let's just take a moment to appreciate that it's been 22 years since criterion released a Michael Bay movie

[@r.graves5531]

i literally just need a barry lyndon 4k

[@ElliotCoen]

Me too my friend!

[@nathanphillips3228]

Will branded to kill be available in the uk? Or do arrow still have the rights?

[@Largestmanintheuniverse]

Has any more info come out about inland empire since last time? I’m still absolutely mystified that they’re only doing a 1080 blu ray after the recent theatrical run was so prominently advertised as a 4k upscale

[@daninbox]

I always heard that Inland Empire was greatly limited by its content. Haven’t seen it though.

[@monkeybillkrs]

I guess Criterion have to put out some more seemingly mainstream titles as they also need to make enough money to keep doing what they do with the lesser known titles. I don't mind it at all as Elliot says and understands.

[@pwrmx24]

Do you have the 4k Criterion The Princess Bride?

[@m.dorado6966]

I buy primarily for picture & sound quality. If both are superior in 4K format over BR then I will double-dip. Artwork, packaging, and extra features don't matter to me. It's all about the film.

[@ElliotCoen]

Film comes first for me too but the price tag of a Criterion is steeper than most if you’re “just” getting the film!

[@gecafe]

This is NOT a new approach. This is how Criterion has always been. Let other labels feed the FoMO chasers. You get the same Criterion now that you got five or ten years ago (barring minor style changes like the Criterion logo, or those few digipack cases that were replaced with Scanavo cases). It is ludicrous to complain that you "only" get the movie on 4K in a 4K title. They already did everything right the first time with video extras and booklet. That's what the name evokes, that this is the criterion of the title. Yes, sell your old Blu-only release. It sounds like you'd rather have the FoMO edition, and that's fine! I have plenty of them myself. I love extra paper and plastic with my plastic discs. But I also love the rock-steady nature of Criterion releases. The day Criterion start doing slipcovers and limited edition pack ins and all that crap, they will lose their identity. There are a dozen other labels all cashing in on that market, and in ten years, most of them will be a memory.

[@daninbox]

@Mike P Fear of missing out. Or limited edition. Sometimes something as simple as a limited time slip cover or lobby cards.

[@BSwenson]

I think this video is a lot of personal nitpicking, which is fine, but not that interesting. I’m grateful for any film that gets a nice physical media release from Criterion or any other studio. I’m a huge Thelma & Louise fan and so very excited to buy it on 4K Criterion.

[@brianharmon9405]

You weren’t wrong about criterion screwing up the seventh seal! No HDR I finally pulled the trigger and imported the BFI release. Criterion has been dropping the ball they were a pillar of quality throughout the dvd/Blu-ray era, while some of their 4K releases have been wonderful, they don’t seem to truly set a new bar for excellence compared to others these days. Not to mention so many of those Blu-ray’s that we held in such high regard used 4K scans, I would like to see them do higher resolutions scans again 6k or something I know it’s not coast effective at all but it’s another one of those things I used to admire and gave it an extra bit of magic getting a criterion title over others.

[@gphonk7359]

Apparently BFI's Seventh Seal has some poorly translated subtitles - not sure how bad it is but someone posted about it on the boutique subreddit. Subs are one of those things people always overlook in physical reviews as its usually not an issue and requires multiple viewings to check. If I'm watching for the first time in a while or showing it to someone else subs obviously take priority over picture. It's bizarre that Criterion didn't use HDR and BFI didn't just copy criterion's existing subs. I honestly may get both versions to compare and see how much of a difference there is with the subs as I lost my blu years ago and have been dying to rewatch this since then.

[@brianharmon9405]

@@gphonk7359 interesting I can’t find any mentions of it anywhere I’ll have to compare it to my criterion Blu-ray side bye side someday. However the fact no one seems to be talking about it leads me to believe it’s not going to be much at all. Thanks

[@brianharmon9405]

@@gphonk7359 just wanted to say I wrote my prior reply in a hurry and just re read it and I thought it sounded a little bitchy. Sorry and honestly thank you for pointing this out, you’re also right more reviewers should pay attention to subs especially in foreign films. I’m probably going to make a custom file with the criterion subs and bfi video.

[@readershigh8377]

Cool cool. How's the steelbook collection?

[@ColonelSternlove]

I get the impression that most some Criterion Collections that people own are based on how nice the collection looks - all aligned with consistent packaging. BUT - they either don’t like the films they own or buy blindly because it’s cool to be Criterion. As for upgrades, budgets these days from any studio are gonna be stretched. Robin Hood: Prince of thieves had great packaging across the board, but the 4K version was the bar the 4K disc. A bit of snobbery with the Thelma & Louise comment though -

[@alexfernandez8083]

Shout/Scream factory have been guilty of no new features on most of their 4k upgrades. But they do site exclusive slipcovers and new art steelbooks on some of their 4k releases. Arrow on the other hand usually do include at least one new special feature, but they almost always use the same exact artwork on their 4k upgrades.

[@madahad9]

I wish they'd release more animated films. The one I wish they'd get a hold of is The Fantastic Animation Festival. I lost count the number of times I rented this at the local video store. I loved the compilation of different styles of animation, even including a couple commercials from the 70's for 7Up and Levi 's jeans. It's a shame this has gone without a DVD release and you can only watch a very faded version of it on KZbin. I'm sure copyright issues will be a major problem but this should be preserved and reintroduced to a modern audience. I think fans of old school animation will love it. I keep hopeful thought about it happening. If anyone has access to whomever picks what films are chosen at Criterion kindly whisper this title into their ear.

[@bigsteve8921]

I think a Criterion of Good Will Hunting would be warranted But I don't get Criterions for anything until there is a sale. Kino are my guys. Yeah besides a slipcover you don't get a bunch of extra stuff, but you don't have to pay 50 bucks for an outstanding quality disc either.

[@jamess8306]

When it comes to double dipping I have to ask myself how many times do I expect to watch it.

[@ElliotCoen]

That’s a good thing to do. No point double dipping if you’ll rarely watch it!

[@MrCREWCRUSHIN95]

The should have done a 4K of Ridley Scott's THE DUELLISTS.

[@steepzy00]

​@Mike P no

[@cdover911]

CHOPPER with Eric Bana needs to be put on criterion I think.

[@solomonmakesfilms829]

Still waiting for Peter Greenaway to get some criterion attention, especially THE BABY OF MÅCON

[@linuszhang6235]

Hey Elliot, I agree with all you said, the same thing also works for Wall-E and many titles they announced...

[@nathanlenker1366]

I agree Ethan. I have not been happy with the last couple months releases from Criterion. It seems like if it's not a upgrade title , it's a recent 2021/2022 film or a major title film. I am excited about the P.B film 'Targets.'. As for Thelma and Louise, Raging Bull. Even though widely released, I see Criterion as not only a obscure title boutique label but Canon type label as well. Look at how many of Criterion films are in Sight and Sound or TSPDT best list. Is this because people are introduced to these films through Criterion and have gained notoriety or that they are offering titles that are already recognized? I feel it's both, so although I might own one of these popular films already, I still will purchase the Criterion version just to support their agenda or because of my collector mentality.

[@Michael64425]

It’s true that many of these 4K upgrades are not worth to have some incredible upgrades but am very selective due to financial constraints and two it’s pointless with certain films. I have the old second sight Picnic at Hanging Rock special edition it’s got all the extras and no problem with the different colouring in the most recent release (Second Sight are generally great though). I agree with your assessment in general,as usual it comes down to money as with everything.Criterion are not the only one doing this look at Arrow who now tread a much more populous path. As long as we can still have these discussions then things are not too bad .😊

[@808physicalmedia9]

Just appreciate where getting new catalog 4k uhd releases & physical media is alive 🤷🏿‍♂️

[@MrCREWCRUSHIN95]

BFI uses Fidelity in Motion for their authoring- so they have a leg up on Criterion in that regard

[@alancadwallender]

I have been looking for a decent copy of 'Targets' for years but wasn't prepared to pay the prices being asked for old second-hand copies on Amazon, but took delivery of the new Criterion version this week. It is Region A (North America) and I had a bit of trouble getting it to play here in the UK, but finally managed to sort out the 'hacks' to get it to play on my Blu-ray player. According to Amazon the BFI version is set for release in September and they have provisionally priced it at £17.99. Chances are that I will buy that one as well, but bought the Criterion because I didn't want to wait three or four months to watch the film.

[@FilmCollectorArchive]

I have not read any of the other comments so I do apologize if I’m repeating anything here. But, I have points I agree with you on, and points where I dissent a bit. First, I agree with you in that I personally feel Criterion are resting on their laurels. They seem a too confident in the library they’ve built up, not only of films, but of supplements. There is no push to separate their Blu Ray and 4K releases. For the most part, I don’t feel a need to upgrade existing titles I own on Blu Ray, simply because there is not enough difference. They have done a good job with a lot of their Blu Ray releases in terms of encoding, etc. Unless it is a film I am really crazy about, and they are featuring a NEW 4K release, then I am fine NOT purchasing the disc. Now, where I dissent a bit is with films like Thelma & Louise getting the 4K release (or even Blu Ray release) from Criterion. I like to see titles like this, or Breakfast Club, or Princess Bride, or others of this stature, because they act as a gateway drug. They are able to bring in a market that other films in the collection wouldn’t necessarily speak to. But it will get the eyes of that market segment on other items in the collection, and potentially get them to click the purchase titles they normally wouldn’t purchase. I always appreciate your content, and hope I’ve made a little bit of sense here. I apologize for the babbling. Haha. Cheers, my friend.

[@leonardkrasner4399]

I saw Targets in a theater while in college in the early 70s. It is extremely frightening, unsettling and an omen of thing to come, particularly in the U.S.

[@SamDavies94]

Good coverage, I agree, I've been collecting Blu-rays for years, Criterion - for me -has always been overpriced, but often deliver a great product. Second Run are killing it with their 4K output. I still enjoy Arrow Video's releases and the Naked Lunch 4K is preordered!

[@SamDavies94]

'Second sight'

[@alexanderfedderly]

I agree with your general thoughts about the 4K upgrades. So far, I think In the Mood for Love is the only one that has gotten new packaging with the upgrade. As far as adding bigger, more famous titles, I have no issue with this. Criterion has always mixed in a few bigger sellers, and they need those to finance their more obscure releases. As long as those films are worthy additions, that's fine with me.

[@s_c_d]

To be fair, the ITMFL packaging is only somewhat new. It's the same packaging as the Blu-Ray that's within the WKW set - the image on the 4K disc is the same as the image on the WKW box set's Blu, and the packaging is in the same style/fonts as the box set's presentation. So, it's sort of different, I suppose!

[@alexanderfedderly]

@@s_c_d They gave the stand-alone 4k upgrade a different cover than the original blu-ray release, which no other 4k upgrade has gotten so far.

[@s_c_d]

@@alexanderfedderly Yes, I am aware that the cover is different. As I stated, the packging is not all that new - the art style and design is in line with the WKW box set. The art on the 4K disc is the same as the art on the Blu. It's got a new cover, but it's a stretch to call it "new packaging."

[@alexfernandez8083]

@@s_c_d I think the bigger problem with this release is the no use of HDR. Even the German digi-pack had HDR but sadly no english subtitles.

[@alexanderfedderly]

@@s_c_d It's objectively new packaging vs the previous stand-alone edition. This is a weird debate.

[@Dman3161]

The new releases have been subpar (not terrible) compared to the past. If Criterion can figure out how to balance the new releases with the 4K upgrades (with new features) then it’s an acceptable trade off for me.

[@reflexstudio2181]

I was disappointed that the recent release of Romeo & Juliet was only on a standard Blu-ray. The 4K restoration was done in 2016, so they kept us waiting for it. It's a nice release, but I feel like a 4K double dip is inevitable.

[@MarkCarnochan]

Last I heard, and last I could find, the BFI release of Targets was cancelled back in Summer 2022. I remember waiting since like... March 2021 for it and being so disappointed

[@thecinematicmind]

The BFI still has the UK rights

[@mike-williams]

The international aspect is important to me as 4K discs are region-free - yet Criterion continue to bundle region-protected BluRays with their 4K discs. I found that hard media players can be sneaky when it comes to region-free aspects - you find that they are region-free for DVDs but not BluRays or vice-versa. So for international audiences Criterion's regular discs are not so attractive, and having to pay for the extra shipping weight of useless BluRays attached to the 4K releases is another issue. I'd be quite happy to pay for a 4K digital-download - as long it had no digital rights management attached to the file. As far as extras go, if they're not tied to the film like a commentary track, I'd just as soon see them on KZbin where they'll have a much much larger audience.

[@NathanielRises606]

As someone who has been waiting for 4k to roll out before buying physical media, I am totally happy there are no additions to blu ray, they were excellent to begin with. I do hope there will be some new materials for some 4k releases but they don’t need it for every one. When 8k is released in 10 yrs I will be salty too.

[@OfficialCinematicTrash]

Since Thelma and Louise makes this Ridley Scott's first film in the Criterion Collection, are there other Ridley Scott films that you think deserve the Criterion treatment?

[@daninbox]

Duellists for sure.

[@LennyNero2019]

I agree with all your argument points, only I usually don't like most of the 'obscure' films they release, so welcome a turn to more 'popular' titles being a part of their collection.

[@heartofcinema3454]

I use a HD Panasonic projector which cost 3500 5 years ago. I can't afford to jump on to the 4k train right now, and it doesn't bother me. I think criterion know how many customers have upgraded and how much 4ks cost?

[@douglasbriel6103]

Even with sales, upgrading your entire collection is fiscally impossible. Vinegar syndrome has been putting out toilet paper films on 4K. Thelma and Louise is important because it was an early film about domestic violence. Kind of an important subject.

[@LeonardoJJardim]

Double Indemnity (1944) is one of my favorite movies, I have the Criterion 4K edition, but I wasn't satisfied with the packaging and booklet.

[@theblurayhunterseries]

My opinion and that’s only what it is… Thelma and Louise although a big Hollywood movie to me is still way more obscure for Hollywood. I don’t hear many people talking about it like they use to. So I’m happy to see at least once a month a bigger title being released. It’s also a way to get People who normally have never heard of Criterion to check it out. They can’t survive on obscurity alone!

[@southendonseaarts]

Criterion has been moving towards more modern classics in recent years Fast Times at Ridgemont High, I would class Thelma and Louise as in that category it was entered into the US National Film Registry and a common factor for criterion is to tend to pick these up. With 4k upgrades It wasn’t strictly true with Three Colours as the soundtrack upgraded from stereo on the Blu-ray to 5.1 on 4k. Criterion are also playing it safe and it is due largely to economic times. Of course Curzon appear to be the Uk opposition as they also announced two Kieslowski box sets.Targets hasn’t made it to UK yet and still no date from BFI. I agree with you on Petite Maman it should have got a 4k. They have a deal with Studiocanal, Disney and Neon now as well so that’s a clear indication they needed to diversify.

[@80sMadeConsumer]

I felt the same way when they announced Wall-e, I did buy it but thought it was a slippery slope to mainstream movies and the obscure ones take a backseat.

[@juliansmith1888]

Studio Canal release good 4K along with BFI.

[@gabe_klassen]

What do you mean Petite Maman only comes with one special feature? It comes with an entire second movie. ‘My Life As A Zucchini’

[@ElliotCoen]

I made this video after the initial announcement but they surprised us all and added that extra at a later date!

[@gcaplan1]

Armageddon has a criterion release that was 20 plus years ago

[@tuc0339]

I absolutely agree about everything and feel the same way. Very happy to get Branded to kill regardless but these upgrades don't feel like upgrades with the current release style. They feel like add ons and I don't really like that. Atleast have new artwork to do some sort of celebration for a new disc.

[@steventhorley7540]

Plenty of young film fans who might chance upon Thelma and Louise and a criterion release is a good place to start - plenty of enjoyment there, if it isn't one I'm personally fond of. Let's see how the rest of the year plays out.

[@ambivalent3995]

I must say I disagree I absolutely love the release of thelma and louise and petite maman 🤍

[@ElliotCoen]

I’m glad you love them!

[@kennethmiller9346]

So you pay extra money for booklets? And not for upgrades to picture and sound?

[@Barot8]

Thelma & Louise was a good film by a very talented director. Also a talented cast. I think I'd buy it in a less expensive format. It might come out on 4k which can be cheaper than Criterion's bluray version. I don't know that I'd watch it that many times.

[@WoodyAllenManiac]

Criterion recently had to lay off some employees. They are in choppy waters and I think they are struggling to survive and stay viable.

[@Crashking416]

I wish Second Sight was more prolific because their releases are second to none (no pun intended).

[@musicandfilms9956]

Criterion Collection films are top notch. Sadly, their prices are also. I doubt I'll ever own one.

[@MrKahlerHahn]

Well… they did rhe same when re-releasing movies from dvd to blu ray. So bo surprise on that

[@ElliotCoen]

Very true, but we definitely see diminishing returns in the jump from blu-ray to 4K as compared to DVD to blu-ray. The value of an upgrade this generation is a harder sell inherently in my opinion! Thanks for watching :)

[@Rychu89]

Tbh, I haven't really seen Criterion as the pioneers of deluxe quality releases for a while now. I remember being excited when their UK line first kicked off but companies like Second Sight and Indicator for me release far superior editions, often at a cheaper or similar price point. Perhaps they rest on their laurels a bit too much as historically they were the elite (alongside Eureka) but the fact is there is even more competition in the boutique blu rays space now and it's definitely noticeable.

[@thecinematicmind]

One thing Criterion desperately needs to start doing is distributing short films so much more significantly

[@thelifeandcrimesofme]

i feel like although there is a difference between 4k UHD and 4k Mastered... its not big enough to lose put on titles. Also i do love extras... but particularly with releases what more can they add? i feel like even if they added 1 or 2 new things it wouldn't make a difference. i think Criterion has built their name well for exposing new and wonderful blind buy films... and a few Hollywood classics wont ruin it... Particularly since we have a whole younger generation that may have never heard of Thelma and Louise. i think the criterion is still going strong, it doesn't need art cards, dual formats... we just need titles new and old of fantastic films. i think criterion curate a great collection.

[@terenceheesch8351]

...lest we forget... ...spine #40... "ARMAGEDDON"

[@moviesbye9294]

Never understood the fanboys of Criterion, there are several much better labels!

[@VFRZen]

Let’s hear Paul Allen’s thoughts ;-) Actually, T&L is Criterion-worthy, IMHO. Though I would rather see Wim Wenders’ Paris, Texas get a 4K release. And how about releasing some more of John Sayles’ stuff?

[@maciek8159]

Criterion needs to release Last Year At Marienbad, Oldboy an Rocco and His Brothers.

[@danboy77]

I have to agree to be honest. I love my booklets and find the Criterion booklets a bit stingy compared to others. Also hoping Criterion release The Straight Story on 4k!

[@Bester76]

The risk to the loss of identity is similar to what Eureka are going through at the moment. I love the Masters of Cinema line, but economics are dictating the reliance on HK/Kung Fu cinema. Fortunately we're still getting some gems from the Universal library interspersed among them, but the direction Eureka are taking is very different to what it was 3/4 years ago. That's no sleight against HK/Kung Fu movies, they were long neglected by most labels so it's good that they're finally getting the exposure they deserve. Criterion - Have to agree re the 4K strategy. There's little incentive to import if you already own the blu rays. I picked up Double Indemnity because it ended up being about the same price to import as I'd have ended up paying for the UK blu ray. Picnic at Hanging Rock was a good example to use to make this point. I'm sure Criterion will release a 4K version but we can probably already guess that it'll be almost identical to the previous release, albeit with a 4K disc. Probably won't even include the theatrical cut....

[@simonfilmfan4899]

I can't stand all these goofy kung Fu movies. I like titles like Criss Cross and This Gun For Hire from Eureka.

[@shaunwerndley6799]

Hi Elliot . Criterion seem to be going down the same route as Arrow video with there 4K releases. Same artwork same special features as the Blu ray releases 😩

[@jamieknox6703]

We need an Ozu boxset...

[@blu-rayswithnathanjones]

Great video, pal! And I am tending to agree with you on these points with the trend of popular films taking a good number here over films that could be here instead. Hopefully, it all funds things in the future 🤞