Best Criterion Films in 2024: 19 Criterion Collection Films You Should Own

If you’re a fan of great film, then we have an interesting article for you today. In this piece, we’re taking a detailed look at Criterion Collection films and dropping a list of the best Criterion films you can find.

The Criterion Collection, Inc. (or simply Criterion) is an American home video distribution company that focuses on licensing “important classic and contemporary films” and selling them to film aficionados.

 

 

Criterion is noted for helping to standardize a number of ideas, such as performing film restoration, using the letterbox format for widescreen films, and adding bonus features and commentary tracks for home video.

If you’re looking for the best Criterion films then you’ve come to the right place! He’s a quick look first at what’s currently selling best:

We’ve listed these Criterion films in no particular order and there’s no preference here. These are releases that have a special interest for one of the following reasons:

• A particularly good version of the film print (although this is an admittedly wide field, due to Criterion having some of the best encodes and releases out there.
• Interesting booklets or documentation.
• Fantastic extras, documentaries, etc included.

So, without further ado, let’s get into the list of the best Criterion films you can get your hands on!

Best Criterion Films – The Top Films in the Criterion Collection

Let’s dive in and look at the best Criterion films you can find.

The Seven Samurai

“The Seven Samurai” is a classic Japanese film released in 1954, directed by the legendary filmmaker Akira Kurosawa.

The film tells the story of a village that is regularly attacked by bandits, who plan to raid the village again.

In a desperate attempt to defend themselves, the villagers hire seven samurai warriors to protect them.

What follows is an epic tale of bravery, sacrifice, and camaraderie as the seven samurai prepare the village for the inevitable battle.

The film is a masterful blend of action, drama, and character development, as the samurai and the villagers form strong bonds and face seemingly insurmountable odds.

The film’s stunning cinematography and epic battles are still impressive to this day, and the themes of the film remain just as relevant and impactful as they were over 60 years ago.

One of the standout performances in the film is that of Takashi Shimura, who brings a remarkable depth and nuance to his role as the leader of the samurai.

The film’s action sequences are breathtaking and expertly choreographed, and the film’s themes of courage, honor, and duty are woven into the fabric of the film in a way that is both meaningful and thought-provoking.

Mulholland Drive

“Mulholland Drive” is a surrealist neo-noir film directed by the iconic filmmaker David Lynch, released in 2001.

The film tells the story of Betty Elms, a young actress who arrives in Los Angeles with aspirations of making it big in the film industry.

She soon finds herself caught up in a web of mystery and intrigue, as she meets a woman who has lost her memory and is searching for her true identity.

What follows is a mesmerizing journey through the dreamlike landscapes of Lynch’s imagination, as the film explores the darker, stranger side of Hollywood and the people who inhabit it.

The film’s non-linear structure and dreamlike quality can be confusing at times, but it also adds to the film’s surreal, otherworldly atmosphere.

The film features standout performances from Naomi Watts and Laura Harring, who bring a captivating presence to their roles.

The film’s cinematography is breathtaking, with Lynch using light and shadow to create a moody, ethereal atmosphere that is both eerie and beautiful.

The film’s score is also noteworthy, adding an eerie, haunting quality to the film’s already atmospheric mood.

The Silence Of The Lambs

“The Silence of the Lambs” is a psychological horror-thriller film directed by Jonathan Demme, released in 1991.

The film stars Jodie Foster as Clarice Starling, an FBI trainee who is tasked with finding a serial killer known as Buffalo Bill.

She turns to the infamous cannibal and psychologist Dr. Hannibal Lecter, played by Sir Anthony Hopkins, for help in solving the case.

What follows is a nail-biting, edge-of-your-seat thriller as Clarice delves deeper into the twisted mind of Buffalo Bill and the equally disturbed Hannibal Lecter.

The film is a masterful blend of suspense, horror, and psychological drama, as it explores the dark, disturbing world of serial killers and the law enforcement officials tasked with stopping them.

One of the standout performances in the film is that of Sir Anthony Hopkins, who delivers a tour-de-force performance as the cannibalistic psychologist.

His portrayal of Hannibal Lecter is both chilling and mesmerizing, and his scenes with Jodie Foster are electric.

Jodie Foster also delivers a powerful performance as Clarice Starling, bringing a sense of vulnerability and determination to her role.

The film’s cinematography is also noteworthy, with Demme using light and shadow to create a moody, oppressive atmosphere that adds to the film’s already intense tone.

The film’s score is equally effective, adding a haunting quality to the film’s already unsettling atmosphere.

Pan’s Labyrinth

“Pan’s Labyrinth” is a dark fantasy film directed by Guillermo del Toro, released in 2006.

The film is set in Spain in the aftermath of the Spanish Civil War, and tells the story of a young girl named Ofelia, who finds herself drawn into a magical, dangerous world of fauns, fairies, and monsters.

The film is a stunning blend of dark fantasy, war drama, and fairy tale, as Ofelia embarks on a journey through the labyrinth to discover her true identity and save her kingdom from the evil forces that threaten it.

The film’s attention to detail is breathtaking, with del Toro creating a fully realized world of magic and wonder that is both beautiful and terrifying.

The film features standout performances from Ivana Baquero as Ofelia, and Sergi López as the brutal Captain Vidal, who serves as the film’s main antagonist.

The film’s cinematography is also noteworthy, with del Toro using light and shadow to create a moody, atmospheric world that adds to the film’s already intense tone. The film’s score is equally effective, adding a haunting quality to the film’s already eerie atmosphere.

The Graduate

“The Graduate” is a classic comedy-drama film directed by Mike Nichols, released in 1967.

The film stars Dustin Hoffman as Benjamin Braddock, a recent college graduate who finds himself adrift in the world and struggling to find his place in society.

When he begins a relationship with the older Mrs. Robinson, played by Anne Bancroft, he finds himself caught up in a web of deceit and longing that threatens to destroy his future.

The film is a triumph of storytelling and filmmaking, as it explores themes of youthful alienation, sexuality, and the struggles of growing up in a world that seems to be against you.

The film’s use of humor and irony is masterful, and the film’s climactic scene, in which Benjamin chases Mrs. Robinson’s daughter through an airport, is a classic of American cinema.

Dustin Hoffman delivers a standout performance as Benjamin Braddock, bringing a sense of awkwardness and vulnerability to his role that is both relatable and endearing.

Anne Bancroft also delivers a powerful performance as Mrs. Robinson, bringing a sense of desperation and longing to her role.

The film’s cinematography is also noteworthy, with Nichols using bright colors and fast-paced editing to create a visual style that captures the energy and chaos of the time.

The film’s score, which features Simon & Garfunkel’s hit song “The Sound of Silence,” is also effective, adding a haunting quality to the film’s already introspective tone.

Do the Right Thing

“Do the Right Thing” is a classic drama film directed by Spike Lee, released in 1989. The film takes place on the hottest day of the year in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn,

and follows the lives of the residents of the block as they deal with issues of race, gentrification, and the changing landscape of their community.

The film is a powerful exploration of race relations and the tensions that can arise between different communities, and features standout performances from its talented cast, including Danny Aiello, Ossie Davis, Ruby Dee, Richard Edson, Giancarlo Esposito, and Spike Lee himself.

The film’s cinematography is also noteworthy, with Lee using a vivid, colorful palette to capture the energy and vitality of the city.

The film’s score, which features a mix of classic R&B, hip-hop, and jazz, is also effective, adding a funky, streetwise vibe to the film’s already intense tone.

Night Of The Living Dead

“Night of the Living Dead” is a classic horror film directed by George A. Romero, released in 1968.

The film takes place in rural Pennsylvania, and follows a small group of survivors as they seek refuge from a horde of flesh-eating zombies who have risen from the dead.

The film is a seminal work in the horror genre, and is widely credited with popularizing the modern zombie movie.

Its groundbreaking special effects and brutal, uncompromising violence set the standard for the genre, and its use of social commentary and political subtext helped to elevate the film above the standard horror fare of the time.

The film features standout performances from its talented cast, including Duane Jones, Judith O’Dea, Karl Hardman, and Marilyn Eastman.

The film’s cinematography is also noteworthy, with Romero using a grainy, documentary-style approach to capture the film’s intense and unrelenting atmosphere.

The Night of the Hunter

“The Night of the Hunter” is a classic film noir directed by Charles Laughton, released in 1955.

The film stars Robert Mitchum as Harry Powell, a charismatic and dangerous preacher who marries a widowed woman in order to get his hands on the money her late husband had stolen.

However, the woman’s two children are privy to the location of the stolen money and are determined to protect it from Powell.

The film is a visually stunning work, with Laughton using imaginative camera work and stunning set pieces to create an otherworldly atmosphere that is both dreamlike and sinister.

The film’s cinematography is particularly noteworthy, with Laughton using shadow and light to create a moody, atmospheric setting that perfectly captures the film’s dark, noirish tone.

The film also features standout performances from its talented cast, including Robert Mitchum, Lillian Gish, Shelley Winters, and Billy Chapin.

The film’s script is also noteworthy, with Laughton and screenwriter James Agee crafting a tight, suspenseful narrative that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

In the Mood for Love

“In the Mood for Love” is a romantic drama directed by Wong Kar-wai, released in 2000.

The film takes place in 1960s Hong Kong, and follows the slow-burning relationship between two neighbors, Mr. Chow (Tony Leung) and Mrs. Chan (Maggie Cheung), who are both dealing with the infidelity of their respective spouses.

The film is a visual feast, with Wong using stunning cinematography and lush, atmospheric imagery to create a dreamlike, nostalgic world that is both seductive and melancholic.

The film’s score, which features a mix of classic Chinese music and haunting, instrumental pieces, is also noteworthy, adding a rich, emotional texture to the film’s already powerful atmosphere.

The film also features standout performances from its talented cast, particularly Tony Leung and Maggie Cheung, who bring a subtlety and nuance to their roles that is both captivating and heartbreaking.

The film’s script is also noteworthy, with Wong crafting a restrained, elliptical narrative that allows the audience to piece together the story’s emotional truths for themselves.

12 Angry Men

“12 Angry Men” is a classic courtroom drama directed by Sidney Lumet, released in 1957.

The film takes place in a jury room, where 12 jurors are tasked with deciding the fate of a young man accused of murder.

Over the course of the film, the jurors engage in a tense and heated debate, as they each struggle with their own biases, prejudices, and preconceptions about the case.

The film is a masterclass in minimalist storytelling, with Lumet using a single set, a small cast of characters, and a tight, dialogue-driven script to create a taut, suspenseful drama.

The film’s cinematography is also noteworthy, with Lumet using a series of close-ups and shot/reverse shot techniques to create a sense of intimacy and immediacy that perfectly captures the characters’ intense emotions and interactions.

The film also features standout performances from its talented cast, particularly Henry Fonda, who delivers a powerful and understated performance as Juror 8, the voice of reason in the jury room.

The film’s script is also noteworthy, with Lumet and screenwriter Reginald Rose crafting a complex, character-driven narrative that expertly examines the nature of justice, truth, and the human psyche.

Some Like It Hot

“Some Like It Hot” is a classic comedy directed by Billy Wilder, released in 1959.

The film stars Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, and Jack Lemmon, and follows two musicians, Joe (Tony Curtis) and Jerry (Jack Lemmon), who are on the run from the mob after witnessing a gangland murder.

To escape their pursuers, they dress in drag and join an all-female jazz band, where they encounter the band’s singer, Sugar Kane (Marilyn Monroe).

The film is a tour de force of comedic storytelling, with Wilder using a mix of smart writing, physical humor, and cleverly choreographed set pieces to create a fast-paced and hilarious movie.

The film’s cinematography is also noteworthy, with Wilder using a mix of vibrant colors and lush, elegant sets to create a glamorous and over-the-top world that perfectly captures the spirit of the Roaring Twenties.

The film also features standout performances from its talented cast, particularly Marilyn Monroe, who delivers a captivating and seductive performance as Sugar Kane, the film’s romantic lead.

The film’s script is also noteworthy, with Wilder and screenwriter I.A.L. Diamond crafting a witty and sophisticated screenplay that expertly blends humor, romance, and social commentary.

 

House

“House” is a classic horror-comedy directed by Nobuhiko Obayashi, released in 1977.

The film follows a group of schoolgirls who travel to a remote countryside home for the summer, only to encounter a series of bizarre and frightening events that seem to stem from the house itself.

The film is a unique and imaginative blend of horror and comedy, with Obayashi using a mix of surreal imagery, inventive special effects, and a playful sense of humor to create a movie that is both eerie and entertaining.

The film’s cinematography is also noteworthy, with Obayashi using a mix of bright colors and trippy visuals to create a dreamlike and otherworldly atmosphere.

The film also features standout performances from its talented cast, particularly Kimiko Ikegami, who delivers a charming and energetic performance as the film’s protagonist, Gorgeous.

The film’s script is also noteworthy, with Obayashi and screenwriter Chiho Katsura crafting a quirky and inventive storyline that expertly blends horror, comedy, and social commentary.

Rosemary’s Baby

“Rosemary’s Baby” is a classic horror film directed by Roman Polanski, released in 1968.

The film stars Mia Farrow as Rosemary Woodhouse, a young woman who moves into a new apartment with her husband, Guy (John Cassavetes).

The couple soon becomes embroiled in a sinister plot involving their neighbors, who are part of a cult that wants to use Rosemary’s unborn baby for their own evil purposes.

The film is a masterclass in suspenseful storytelling, with Polanski using a mix of psychological horror and atmospheric tension to create a movie that is both frightening and thought-provoking.

The film’s cinematography is also noteworthy, with Polanski using a mix of dark, moody visuals and subtle camera work to create a palpable sense of unease.

The film also features a standout performance from Mia Farrow, who delivers a haunting and emotional performance as Rosemary, the film’s protagonist.

The film’s script is also noteworthy, with Polanski and screenwriter Ira Levin crafting a tightly-wound and intelligent screenplay that expertly blends horror, mystery, and social commentary.

Blood Simple

“Blood Simple” is a classic neo-noir film directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, released in 1984.

The film follows the story of Marty (Dan Hedaya), a Texas bar owner who hires a private detective (M. Emmet Walsh) to kill his wife (Frances McDormand) and her lover (John Getz).

However, as the plot unfolds, things quickly spiral out of control and everyone involved finds themselves caught in a web of deceit, betrayal, and murder.

The film is a masterclass in film noir storytelling, with the Coen brothers using a mix of dark humor, stylish cinematography, and taut storytelling to create a movie that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The film’s cinematography is also noteworthy, with Barry Sonnenfeld using a mix of moody visuals and inventive camera work to create a palpable sense of unease.

The film also features standout performances from its talented cast, particularly Dan Hedaya, who delivers a charismatic and entertaining performance as the film’s antagonist, Marty.

The film’s script is also noteworthy, with Joel and Ethan Coen crafting a witty and intelligent screenplay that expertly blends neo-noir, crime, and dark humor.

 

Persona

“Persona” is a Swedish film directed by Ingmar Bergman, released in 1966.

The film follows the story of two women: Elisabet Vogler (Liv Ullmann), a famous stage actress who suddenly stops speaking, and Alma (Bibi Andersson), a nurse who is assigned to care for her.

The two women retreat to a remote cottage by the sea, where Alma tries to uncover the truth behind Elisabet’s silence.

The film is a masterful exploration of identity, psychological states, and the human condition, with Bergman using a minimalist style to create a haunting and atmospheric film that is both beautiful and deeply thought-provoking.

The film’s cinematography is also noteworthy, with Sven Nykvist using a mix of natural light, close-ups, and careful framing to create an intense and intimate visual style.

The film also features outstanding performances from its talented cast, particularly Liv Ullmann and Bibi Andersson, who deliver mesmerizing and emotionally powerful performances as the two central characters.

The film’s script is also noteworthy, with Bergman crafting a deeply philosophical and thought-provoking screenplay that raises important questions about the nature of human identity, the role of art, and the human condition.

The Princess Bride

“The Princess Bride” is a classic fairy tale adventure film directed by Rob Reiner and released in 1987.

The film is based on the novel of the same name by William Goldman and follows the story of Westley (Cary Elwes), a young farmhand who sets out on a quest to rescue his true love, the beautiful Buttercup (Robin Wright), from the evil Prince Humperdinck (Chris Sarandon).

What sets “The Princess Bride” apart from other fairy tale films is its perfect blend of humor, adventure, and romance.

The film is a masterful mix of action, humor, and heart, and its quirky characters, witty dialogue, and imaginative set pieces are sure to delight audiences of all ages.

Whether you’re a fan of action-adventure films, romantic comedies, or fairy tales, “The Princess Bride” has something for everyone.

The film’s cast is also outstanding, with Cary Elwes and Robin Wright delivering charming and heartfelt performances as Westley and Buttercup, respectively.

Supporting roles are also strong, with memorable performances from the likes of Mandy Patinkin as Inigo Montoya, Andre the Giant as Fezzik, and Peter Falk as the grandfather who is narrating the story.

Visually, the film is a feast for the eyes, with imaginative sets, colorful costumes, and stunning landscapes that transport audiences to a magical world where anything is possible.

The film’s score, composed by Mark Knopfler, is also noteworthy, with its whimsical and nostalgic themes complementing the film’s playful and lighthearted tone.

In conclusion, “The Princess Bride” is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time and remains a beloved movie for audiences of all ages.

It’s a movie that is sure to leave you smiling, with a heart full of wonder, and a newfound appreciation for the magic of cinema.

Notorious

“Notorious” is a classic film noir directed by Alfred Hitchcock and released in 1946. The film stars Cary Grant as T.R. Devlin, a government agent tasked with recruiting Alicia Huberman (Ingrid Bergman), the daughter of a convicted Nazi spy, to help him track down a group of Nazis who are plotting to steal nuclear secrets.

The film’s intricate plot and nuanced characters are what make “Notorious” such a standout in the film noir genre.

The film’s suspenseful and atmospheric tone, combined with the stunning cinematography and haunting score, creates a truly unforgettable viewing experience.

Cary Grant delivers a fantastic performance as T.R. Devlin, a man who must navigate the complex world of espionage and balance his own personal feelings for Alicia with his professional duties.

Ingrid Bergman also delivers a standout performance as Alicia Huberman, a woman who must confront her own troubled past and use her wiles to infiltrate the Nazi ring.

The chemistry between Grant and Bergman is electric, and their on-screen relationship is both romantic and dramatic, making for an unforgettable love story.

Visually, the film is a masterpiece, with breathtaking shots of Rio de Janeiro and the elaborate costumes and sets perfectly capturing the glamorous and dangerous world of espionage.

The film’s iconic opening shot, which features a keyhole that slowly reveals the film’s title, is just one example of Hitchcock’s visual flair and attention to detail.

 

Dr. Strangelove

“Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb” is a 1964 satirical black comedy directed by Stanley Kubrick.

The film stars Peter Sellers in three different roles, as President Merkin Muffley, Group Captain Lionel Mandrake, and the title character, Dr. Strangelove. The film also stars George C. Scott, Sterling Hayden, and Keenan Wynn.

The film is a darkly comedic take on the threat of nuclear war, and it satirizes the political and military establishments of the time.

The story follows a rogue Air Force General (played by Sterling Hayden) who orders a first strike nuclear attack on the Soviet Union, despite the efforts of President Merkin Muffley, Group Captain Lionel Mandrake, and Dr. Strangelove to prevent it.

“Dr. Strangelove” is a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Kubrick’s masterful direction and Sellers’ multiple performances are a highlight of the film, and the script is a sharp and biting satire that still holds relevance today.

The film’s use of dark humor and over-the-top scenarios make it a unique and unforgettable film.

Visually, the film is a work of art, with stunning cinematography, precise editing, and imaginative production design.

The film’s sets and costumes are a perfect reflection of the film’s darkly comedic tone, and they perfectly capture the absurdity of the situations depicted in the film.

 

A Woman Under the Influence

“A Woman Under the Influence” is a 1974 film directed by John Cassavetes and stars Gena Rowlands as Mabel Longhetti and Peter Falk as her husband Nick Longhetti.

The film is a powerful exploration of mental illness and its impact on a working-class family in Los Angeles.

Mabel is a loving wife and mother who begins to show signs of mental instability. As her behavior becomes more erratic, her husband Nick tries to get her the help she needs, but his own emotional turmoil and financial struggles make it difficult for him to support her.

The film follows Mabel and Nick as they struggle to maintain their relationship and family despite the challenges they face.

“A Woman Under the Influence” is a film that is both deeply affecting and visually stunning. Cassavetes’ direction is both raw and compassionate, and he creates a powerful, emotional experience for the audience.

Gena Rowlands’ performance as Mabel is a standout, and she captures the pain and vulnerability of a woman struggling with mental illness.

The film’s cinematography is equally impressive, with a style that is both naturalistic and expressive.

The film’s hand-held camera work and intimate close-ups give the film a sense of immediacy and realism, and the film’s muted color palette captures the mood of the story.

 

The History of Criterion

The Criterion Collection company was founded in 1984 by Robert Stein, Aleen Stein, and Joe Medjuck, who later were joined by Roger Smith.

In 1985, the Steins, William Becker, and Jonathan B. Turell founded the Voyager Company to publish educational multimedia CD-ROMs (1989–2000), during which time the Criterion Collection became a subordinate division of the Voyager Company.

In March 1994, Verlagsgruppe Georg von Holtzbrinck GmbH bought 20% of Voyager for US$6.7 million; the four founders each retained a 20% owner’s share.

In 1997, the Voyager Company was dissolved (Aleen Stein founded the Organa LLC CD-ROM publishing company), and Holtzbrinck Publishers sold the “Voyager” brand name, 42 CD-ROM titles, the Voyager web site, and associated assets, to Learn Technologies Interactive, LLC (LTI).

Robert Stein sold 42 Voyager titles to LTI from his Voyager–Criterion company share. The remaining three partners, Aleen Stein, William Becker (President) and Jonathan Turell (CEO) owned the Criterion Collection company, which has a business partnership with Janus Films, and had one with Home Vision Entertainment (HVE) until 2005, when Image Entertainment bought HVE.

On November 4, 2013, it was announced that Sony Pictures Home Entertainment would handle distribution.

Benefits To Buying Criterion Films

Criterion films are a great way to find quality movies that you might not know about. The company has been around for nearly four decades and they have released over 1000s of titles on DVD and Blu-Ray.

They release some of the most well-known classic films ever made, such as Citizen Kane or Seven Samurai but also lesser-known foreign language films like A Separation.

Criterion provides insightful commentary tracks, deleted scenes, outtakes, interviews with directors and actors, audio commentaries with film scholars on many of their releases making it a perfect place to find high-quality entertainment for one’s viewing pleasure.

Criterion films are considered to have the best quality of any film distribution company and are one of the best ways to enjoy movies.

The purpose behind these products is to provide an alternative for people who want to watch their favorite movies with better quality than what they find on Netflix or Amazon Prime, as well as a much cinematically deeper catalog.

Criterion films are the best way to invest in a film. They’re not just for cinephiles, but also for those who appreciate quality cinema and want their own personal library of classics.

Criterion releases always have excellent commentary tracks, interviews with filmmakers, essays on the movie’s production history, and much more.

What are some benefits that come with purchasing Criterion films?

• They’re well worth the price because they have endless educational value.
• The Criterion Collection is one of the most prestigious collections in all of media.
• You can enjoy them at home or streaming on your computer.

Best Criterion Films – Wrap Up

We really hope this list of the Criterion films has been useful to you. We’ve given you a wide range of different genres of film here. As ever, it really depends on what you’re looking to dip into.

The Criterion Collection is huge, though, so if we’ve missed out anything that you love, feel free to let us know in the comments below this article.

These films will give you glimpses into genres, styles and filmmakers that you may not have come across. As always, any one of these great films can be fantastic jumping off points for discovering new filmmakers and styles of filmmaking.

So whether you’re a filmmaker yourself, a collector, or just someone looking to see what the Criterion Collection has to offer, we hope this guide has stoked your interest.

What did we miss? If we missed out your favorite Criterion film, let us know in the comments below.
 

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