Collecting Criterion In 2023
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 18 มี.ค. 2023
- #CriterionCollection #film #movies
Some thoughts on the collecting Criterion releases in 2023
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I am with you on not upgrading to 4K for titles that I already have. The Blu-ray releases already look and sound so great. I want more original releases.
I completely agree, thanks so much for commenting.
I agree too, there are very few criterion blu-rays that I would replace with the 4k - it’s just generally not worth the money. I do plan to buy The Red Shoes 4k, and I’ll give my blu to my sister, but I don’t know if I’ll do any others
I’m with you, Dave. I haven’t upgraded a single release to 4K. The packaging is often exactly the same as the Blu ray release and with no other incentive it’s just tough to justify it. Now if I have a DVD that I never upgraded to Blu, as is the case with the upcoming Rules of the Game, I may make the leap there. Having said that I did still manage to put together a nice haul for this past Tuesday’s flash sale regardless!
Yeah I agree I only upgrade DVD'S.
@@PatDSez dont they get more special features than the normal criterion blu ray though?
Hi Dave--I agree 100%! Also, if Criterion were a bit more savvy (and less lazy) in this regard, they'd maybe change the cover art and put some 4K-exclusive extras on the reissues so you don't feel like you're buying the same exact thing if you do want to upgrade...
Hi David, I completely agree. Would be great to see even more extras on 4K releases or anything that might compel me to upgrade.
Good discussion, Dave, and a timely one as well. I went back two years just to do a comparison of what The Criterion Collection announced in June 2021. There were two Blu-ray upgrades, along with four new releases. I think the jump from DVD to Blu-ray was more exciting for us than Blu-ray to 4K, especially with no additional features or new artwork in most cases. I think we’re getting roughly the same amount of releases monthly, both new and upgrades, but the upgrades don’t seem as substantial. I’m still happy for new titles. So I really think there’s not much new under the Criterion releasing schedule sun.
Thanks KB. I'm happy for new titles too just wishing there were more for each month and that 4K releases were worth the upgrade.
I enjoyed this video Dave, thanks for sharing 👍🏻
Thanks Rob, hope all is well.
I'm glad you brought this up, Dave. I still need to see the livestream with you and Steph, but I've been feeling some of this myself. I'm excited for the new titles, but unless it is something that I really enjoy, I won't upgrade. Appreciate this topic, my friend!
Thanks Nathan. I’m looking forward to new releases too though my wish list is shorter than in previous years. Thanks so much for watching and commenting.
Personally, I can't see a reason to upgrade. Warner Archive has been producing remarkable 2K transfers with The Curse of Frankenstein, Dr. Jekyll and Mister Hyde and Reflections in a Golden Eye. Many of the 2K scans delivered by Sony have been solid transfers on the whole, plus Kino has done some good work, and not forgetting Studio Canal, who have had some issues with transfers, but the UK Hammer releases have been remarkable on 2k. The less said about Paramount the better. Is Paramount deliberately screwing up these films? Seems odd that a major media Corp can't address their 4K restorations effectively, and deliver solid transfers of back catalogue material without botching the product up. Indicator have done solid 2K transfers as well. There's some films that have benefited from 4K restoration, but there's been plenty of stinkers along the way. Some films just don't lend well to the 4K conversion. But also depends on who's doing the restoration. It's a very mixed bag to be honest and an expensive pastime. The way I see it. 2K, if done properly can provide you with solid picture. I see nothing wrong with the 2K experience.
Yes, agreed that there is no real reason to upgrade unless I don't have the film or just have the DVD. I love that Warner Archive, Kino and other labels are doing with physical media releases. Amazing work at often a very good price. 2K transfers and Blu-ray is just fine for me.
Great video subbed!!
Thanks very much and welcome!
Great video, Dave! I agree with your point about how Criterion should be releasing some more new films and not 4K upgrades, as much as I love the 4K format, I don't think it should take up a whole "Slot" in the monthly criterion announcements.
Cheers,
Clark
You are on to something with the abundance of the 4K releases Dave. If one has just a DVD and they want to do the upgrade for the 4K/Blu-Ray combo, then it makes sense. But it does take up what could be a potential spot for new releases. Going over previous years, 2021 only had 2 upgrades (the year they started doing 4K) and 2022 had 7. As of right now, we're at 9 and we are only halfway through the year.
I think Criterion is doing this because of two reasons. One, they want to get as many 4K releases out the door before other distributors get the 4K rights (see Kino Lorber with the Kubrick films and 12 Angry Men as examples). And second, it partly has to do with the employees they released and they have a different business strategy. Not what I would recommend personally, but these are just theories I have on the matter. Hopefully they deliver more in the second half of 2023. We'll have to wait and see.
I would only upgrade if there were some new extras. I am fairly new to Criterion. I am finding their products to be my favorites. Not only do they have really good extras on their discs, but I also enjoy their booklets with the essays.
Same here Andrew. These days, I’m trying to pickup more films rather than upgrading existing ones in my collection.
I see where you’re coming from and I agree. I will not be upgrading my blu rays to 4k but if I don’t own the movie I will get the 4k when it is released, if I want to own the movie of course. Thanks for the video!
It seems like the recent popularity of haul videos and a few high-profile releases has raised the image of Criterion. I think these releases are more useful to people starting out who don’t have much in their collection and thus aren’t “double dipping” by get a new 4K release. It sucks that some people will feel left out, but I don’t think anyone can really be blamed for this dynamic.
Great point. Thanks for your comment.
Great subject Dave! I understand your position completely. As other people have already mentioned, I don't have near the amount of Criterion releases that you have. Most of the Criterion 4k releases I have gotten are not ones I had previously on Blu-ray. I personally want the best picture and sound possible and I have double dipped on a few titles from Criterion. But that being said, Blu-ray is a very good format and depending on your TV and player might not be worth the upgrade. I think Criterion might be in a tuff spot because other labels are putting out 4k's of movies previously released by Criterion. So they might be trying to strike an even balance between new releases and 4k upgrades. Anyway, love your love for movies Dave.
Thanks so much Michael. During a sale, I might opt for the 4K if I don't have the film but I'm really trying to add more films that I love, haven't seen, or want to see to my collection this year. So much depends on the film and my overall mood/interest at the time. I've been watching so many older films this year (Marx Brothers, 70s films, film noir, pre-code era films, etc) and find I'm focusing on other labels like Warner Archive and Kino where titles are more affordable and films typically look amazing on Blu-ray.
In the same boat as you! The last few months have had underwhelming announcements simply because of 4K taking up space. I wish they’d announce at least 5 new titles then in addition to that announce 4K.
Hi Nathan. Yes, completely agree. I'd like more new title announcements.
I agree! I've been going to other companies for new title selections. I'll probably get the Pasolini set and the Servant, but I've been disappointed otherwise in Criterion.
Same here Chris. The Pasolini set looks interesting as well as The Servant but I will probably wait on those releases in favor of films from other labels.
As a rule for myself, I will not upgrade a Blu-ray to 4K, but I will buy a film I do not own on 4K or upgrade from DVD. I did make one exception to this rule was "Casablanca," it is my favorite film of all time and own it on various formats.
Great approach Harry and I will often do the same thing if the price is right. Thanks for commenting.
I have the same sentiment as you. Disappointed in the 4K upgrades on Blu-ray’s before so many DVDs that could use an upgrade. I find fewer and fewer releases that I want to by as well. On this last Flash Sale and only bought two items.
I completely agree Andrew. I only picked up 3 films during the sale. Hoping Criterion has more new releases in future.
I have not jumped onto 4K at all and I believe I would be reluctant to upgrade my blu-rays to 4K like you for the same reasons. I would rather pick up more new titles than upgrade existing ones in my collection.
Most Blu Rays I don't upgrade to 4K but there are exceptions I do. Choices. Looking forward to the flash sale. Thanks for the review.
Thanks for commenting Kevin, I appreciate it!
I agreed with you they need to bring more titles than bringing more to 4k
If I like a film and I already have it on Blu Ray, I won't upgrade to 4k. But if I really LOVE a film and it comes out on 4k, I'm buying it.
Same here Tyson!
To upgrade or not to upgrade? I usually upgrade if it's one of my favorite movies.
I’ve been watching so many videos lately discussing criterion releases.. People want 4k upgrades but just not the ones criterion has put out. Or don’t want the upgrades and prefer they put out new releases instead- but then are disappointed in the new release announcements. They can’t win! I think I’m more annoyed with the titles I want in the collection being released on 4k by Kino.. now in order for it to match on my shelf I only have Blu-ray option. I feel like I hesitate to buy any titles now. My collections seem incomplete and all over the place with bluray and 4k releases- I almost wish 4k wasn’t even an option! I just want to get back to buying movies for movies.. and not worrying about the format game
Hi Sue. This is such a great comment with so many good points. I love your thought about just buying movies for movies and not worrying so much about the format. For me, I'm looking to add more movies that I love or haven't seen or want to see to my collection this year while being more aware of cost and not spending too much on just one film just because it's 4K. Thanks so much for commenting.
I’ve upgraded a couple of Criterions from Blu to 4K. I’m not trying to comprehensively do it but I am very happy I did, as with our new tv, I can really see the difference. New titles are great but there are reasons people want to upgrade.
Great point Sean and glad you can see some differences in the 4K releases. I am selectively upgrading or opting for this if I don't have a certain film depending on the price. I would love to see Criterion release more titles and finding that I'm shifting my collecting focus a bit this year to other labels.
I agree
if criterion is releasing a new movie to their label and for the first time the title gets a 4k uhd release- it’s great it’s great what they’re doing. but as you said upgrade from blu to uhd might be - from a collector’s pov just unnecessary. also i think that it’a their way to save up on picking rights for their new stuff and just release some copies that they own already just newly scanned and released on 4k uhd. just my free thoughts. also as you said i’d like them to release just more titles perhaps previously unknown to many people before- one of the reasons criterion rocks. and bluray is a very good standard
I say bring on the 4K. The improved definition, colors & contrast make for ultimate, definitive versions.
(By the way, the new release of Inland Empire is only on Blu HD since the source material was shot on too early a digital camera to allow for a 4K version.)
Great point! Depends on the film and the price but I often opt for the 4K.
Yeah, last B&N sale I got as much Arrow as Criterion. So far, I’ve only upgraded from DVD/VHS (or nothing) to 4K (any label) with the exception of Highlander, which is perhaps my favorite movie and had a bunch new features.
Same here Joshua. I added quite a few more Arrow titles to my collection last year and hope to pickup more in 2023.
If it’s not a movie that’s going to look breathtaking in 4K I don’t think there is a rhyme or reason to upgrade. Mildred Pierce is probably never going to look better outside of potentially cleaning up things. There does come a point though with a lot of these older movies where the practical effects of the past don’t look great in high definition. The fallen soldier scene with Gone with the Wind is awkward to watch when you can tell a lot of the bodies are dummies. The same issue with Wizard of Oz. I’m not saying that the Star Wars way of cgi’ing is smart either but when cleaning up the film legit makes it look cheaper it’s going to take someone watching for the first time out of the movie.
Hi Anthony. Totally agree with your thoughts on this topic. Thanks very much.
Upgrading to 4k - it makes sense if you get a 77” oled or larger and sit within 8’ of the TV for detail purposes. You do get enhanced contrast and colors with HDR which can be very dramatic on an HDR capable tv and Blu-ray player (depending on the title) and Dolby Atmos is a big plus. If you have a big film collection you may as well invest in a serious speaker system. And TV. criterion has done some atmos mixes. I’m still buying criterion 4k & 1080’s but I do care about 4k so get upset if I buy a 1080 that gets remastered within a year of purchase
Great point, thanks so much for commenting.
@@CinemaDaveMedia No problem - one more thought; might be good for future proofing a bit. I collected 4k's for 4 years before I even had a 4k set.
I agree that if I have a film on blu-ray, I probably won’t upgrade to 4K. But if I’m planning to buy a title I don’t already have, I will go with the 4K, especially at the 50% sales. One title I’m planning to upgrade is Dazed and Confused, because I only have the dvd version.
Sounds like a good plan Greg. Depends on the film but I have been adding a very few 4Ks to my Criterion collection during sales but only if I don't have the film or I only have the DVD.
I don't give much mind to Criterion's 4K releases of already existing blu-ray titles. Maybe these titles are only licensed so long hence the 4K editions in place of something entirely new. Either way the competition for my dwindling dollar is so strong right now that I side with the best value and most desired titles. And even though I haven't seen most of their output I'm particularity interested in what Radiance Films has been putting out. My buck would go there before one of these 4Ks.
I completely agree Damian. I'm interested in Radiance Films also (and other labels) and have been focusing my time and energy on other companies (Warner Archive, Kino, Indicator, Imprint) that are also doing some great work releasing older or perhaps lesser known films.
Criterion is in a tough spot. On one hand they kind of have to upgrade some titles to 4k in order to keep the rights to them. Also, just because you own the blu-ray already, doesn't mean that everyone else does as well. Personally I am thrilled when a title that I already own on blu-ray gets upgraded to 4k because that means that that is a week where I don't have to spend any money.
Great points! Thanks so much for your comment.
I agree, Dave, that this has so far been a disappointing year for Criterion. I’m not understanding their overall strategy but they have been around a long time so I have to assume they know what they’re doing sales-wise.
The paucity of extras (and new supplements for upgrades) and the lack of new titles are surprising. Luckily Kino and other labels have picked up the slack in that regard. Kino has just released seven Truffaut titles not currently available on bluray (three were once on Twilight Time). You would think one or two of those titles (at least) were sure fire for Criterion at one time.
I completely agree Roger. It's disappointing not seeing as many new releases or extra features added to the 4K releases that would compel me to purchase or upgrade. I'm focusing on other boutique labels more this year also and happy that Kino, Warner Archive are picking up the slack.
Interesting topic, I will agree with you except for the fact that Criterion releases a lot of international and art house films for me to discover. What bothers me with the 4k releases is that they don't add anything new, just sharper pictures.
Completely agree. Quality is better but often no new extra features with the Criterion upgrades.
I like upgrading my bly rays to 4K but with Criterion, the blu rays are already so good and a lot have a 4k scan so I don't see the point in upgrading those to 4K (with exactly the same packaging as well!) I think it's a waste of money
Yes, good point and I completely agree. I'd rather pickup more films for the price I'd pay for one 4K.
It drives me crazy when they use the exact same art for the upgrade 😡
For me it depends on the film. I did upgrade “A Hard Days Night” to 4K and if they do “It’s A Mad Mad Mad Mad World,” I probably would upgrade. Otherwise I wouldn’t bother upgrading them.
Good point Mike. Very much depends on the film, the price, and what I already have or don't have. I opted for "A Hard Day's Night" on Blu-ray just to save a little and have more funds for other films.
Great video Dave! I haven't been collecting Criterion as long as some, so luckily a lot of these 4K re-releases I'm getting to grab for the first time. Definitely understand wanting to save to add new movies into your collection and in the case of most Criterions, the bluray scans are already pretty top notch.
Thanks! For the most part, Blu-ray is great for me though, if I don’t have the film or am upgrading from DVD, I would consider getting a 4K if the price is right. Hope you are doing well.
I understand you but in my case I am happy with Criterion because I don’t want to spend a lot of money. For me the Pasolini box set is a great 2023 release and also Inland Empire, Thelma and Louise, Wings of Desire and Lars von Trier’s Europe Trilogy ! I will not upgrade Blu ray titles to 4K because I prefer to acquire new title’s instead!!
Sounds good Juan. I still plan to pickup some films during sales this year but find that I'm focusing on other labels like Kino, Warner Archive, and Arrow this year.
Criterion is a great label, but why get all their titles? Do you want to see every movie they bring out? Have you enjoyed every single title they released? If so, keep on buying. If not, there are plenty of other great labels .
Yes, agreed! Thanks so much for commenting.
Isn't there a copy of Bergman Island directly over your shoulder?
It’s another film called “Bergman Island” from 2021 starring Tim Roth and Vicky Krieps. Highly recommended.
@2:10 Yeah, some films look better on DVD and even VHS!
B&W releases, & also some color, like Barry Lyndon. I have a flat screen set up below a CRT and I find with some films I just enjoy them more on the CRT! Barry Lyndon esp. Some B&W is horrible on a CRT like Seven Samurai... IMHO
(I have the Flatscreen/CRT set up for the open mat issue, were some films have more picture on the VHS.
Prime Examples.: Touch Of Evil, Psycho there are more that are just a little extra on the VHS on the top and bottom, but Psycho in open mat is just a better film. Touch of evil is scarier in the claustrophobic letterbox format, but also uglier...)
Yes, I agree. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts on this topic.
I don't worry about Criterion upgrading titles to 4K because it is going to get new people to buy Criterions. And an expanded customer base is going to help Criterion more than the releases of some new but more obscure title to the collection. And there are some more recent collectors who will look toward Criterion because they have 4K and they want the best available resolution.
Given thst, I am always adding movies to my wish list faster than I can buy them. Recommendations from videos like yours and others add to the list. I am getting Ikiru after watching Living. So I am not too worried about how Criterion is releasing movies since its basically 3-4 times a year I purchase them.
Great points Erik and I agree. My wishlist is also growing but mostly for other labels these days like Kino, Warner Archive, Indicator. I still will be picking up some titles during the Criterion sales but not as many as in previous years. Top of my list these days is Bergman Island, Inland Empire, Targets, The Velvet Underground and a few others.
@@CinemaDaveMedia I just saw your live stream. Saw you skipped Targets this run. I have a huge wishlist, based on movies, which I then parse out by label. Kino and Warner Archive seem to be the popular choice for me too.
@@lostnthenoise Yes, I thought Targets was a preorder so I decided to wait until the next sale to pickup.
I don't think you said Criterion enough.
I am not going to upgrade any of the Criterion movies. Also, I feel Criterion has added a lot of new movies, the past couple of years, that don’t interest me. I have been spending my money elsewhere for movies I would rather have.
Same here Mike. I seem to be adding less and less Criterion titles to my collection these days.
It’s a lazy cash grab and i think they’re gonna realize it’s gonna hurt their image in the long-term. I mean come on. How much can these old ass movies really improve from their blu-ray restorations. Nobody cares unless they haven’t picked up the blu-ray release yet.
I disagree, it's not a lazy cash grab! It's called being relevant in a market where we have other choices now. 2008 marked the first bluray on Criterion, I bet money on the fact that in less than half that time everything will be 4k. Plus "these old ass movies" have never looked better than in 4k!
@@johnnycooker5298 i’m talking about the re-releases. Like we don’t need a re-release of Dazed and Confused on 4k when criterion already has it on bluray.