Celebrating the Resurgence of Physical Media in 2024

Criterion Collection 40th Anniversary Box Set

The Blu-ray release of the year is this stunning tribute to the 40th anniversary of the Criterion Collection. For years, the Criterion team has allowed filmmakers and movie lovers access to their physical collection, resulting in the Criterion Closet Picks video series. Now, they’ve gathered the 40 most frequently chosen films in a gorgeous box set with all previous special features and essays. It showcases a wide variety of films spanning genres and nationalities, making it a perfect gift to introduce someone to the world of Criterion. One can truly immerse themselves in different cinematic experiences within this massive set.

Not only does it offer a visual and auditory feast, but it also comes with a lovingly assembled book and quotes from those who chose these films. It’s like having a film class in a box, allowing viewers to explore and appreciate the art of cinema.

Robert Rodriguez’s El Mariachi Trilogy in 4K

Robert Rodriguez’s El Mariachi was a game-changer, made for under $7k and taking the action world by storm. The success led to two sequels with bigger budgets. Arrow Home Video has remastered all three films in glorious 4K and accompanied them with an insane number of special features. Watching these films again, one is reminded of the lost art of editing and action choreography in the CGI era. Antonio Banderas’s screen presence is magnetic, but it’s Rodriguez’s skills that truly leave you in awe.

These remastered films bring back memories of a bygone era and showcase the talent of Rodriguez and his team. It’s a must-have for fans of action cinema.

Hellraiser Franchise in 4K

Arrow’s 4K remastering of the first four Hellraiser films is the horror release of the year. The Hellraiser franchise, started by Clive Barker almost four decades ago, has produced 11 films. This set not only makes the films look better than ever but also features new commentary tracks, visual essays, and a 200-page hardback book. The special features are truly mind-blowing and add to the overall horror experience.

For horror fans, this is a must-have collection. It brings together the essence of the franchise and presents it in a stunning 4K format.

Disney+ Special-Edition Steelbooks

As streaming services continue to dominate, it’s notable that Disney+ is releasing special-edition steelbooks of its hit original shows. This holiday season, they launch the third wave with collector’s editions of The Mandalorian, Ahsoka, Loki (the best of the bunch), and Hawkeye. These editions include special features unavailable on Disney+ like tributes and deleted scenes from the MCU shows.

It’s a great way to own a piece of Disney+ history and add some physical value to your streaming collection.

The Coen Brothers’ No Country for Old Men on Criterion Collection

One of the best films in the Coen brothers’ remarkable career is getting a Criterion Collection special edition this holiday season. Criterion has dug into the vault and found a gem that even hard-core cinephiles might not know. Not only has the story of Anton Chigurh been remastered in 4K, but they also got Megan Abbott to have a new conversation with the Coens and a separate chat with Roger Deakins and David Dilberto. It includes previously available material like behind-the-scenes documentaries and archival interviews.

This release is a must-have for Coen brothers fans and cinema enthusiasts alike. It showcases the depth and artistry of their work.

Taxi Driver in 4K

One of the best American films of all time finally got a 4K release this year. Restored from the original camera negative, it makes the story of Travis Bickle’s journey through New York City more gritty and tactile than ever. It also includes fascinating storyboard to film comparisons and a 40-minute conversation with Martin Scorsese, Robert De Niro, and Jodie Foster. Additionally, there’s a commentary with Scorsese and Paul Schrader.

This release is a testament to the enduring legacy of Taxi Driver and the talent of its creators. It’s a must-own for film lovers.

Jim Henson’s ‘80s Classics in 4K

People adore these two Jim Henson ‘80s classics that transport children to magical worlds. Late 2024 saw the release of the most expansive and impressive collections yet, filled with new special features and physical collectibles. Both films have been remastered in 4K and include bonus material. The physical design of these box sets is highly attractive to collectors, with the Labyrinth set having an actual crystal ball and The Dark Crystal having a physical crystal shard. They come with books and other collectibles, making them both display items and Blu-ray releases.

These collections are a must-have for fans of Jim Henson’s work and collectors alike.

Hayao Miyazaki’s The Boy and the Heron in Steelbook

Shout Factory released a gorgeous steelbook edition of Hayao Miyazaki’s Oscar-winning The Boy and the Heron. The film is adored but feels a bit underrated. This steelbook contains a mesmerizing 4K version with a great DTS-HD Master Audio track. It also includes interviews with composer Joe Hisaishi, producer Toshio Suzuki, and animation supervisor Takeshi Honda. There’s also a storyboard reel, music video, and more.

The cover art is beautiful, and the content within makes this a must-own for Miyazaki fans.

A24’s Physical Media Releases

A24 has been quietly amassing a remarkable collection of physical media releases. Collector’s editions of Midsommar and Love Lies Bleeding are must-haves, as is its lavish release for Jane Schoenbrun’s breathtaking feature. It includes a commentary with Schoenbrun and Brigette Lundy-Paine, deleted scenes, a new featurette, and six collectible postcards. This is an essential artwork that will be cited in the history of film.

A24’s physical media releases are a testament to their commitment to quality and the art of filmmaking.

The Wild Robot in 2024

This is one of the best animated films of 2024 and a great gift for all ages. It’s a moving adaptation that blends heartfelt emotion and peak craftsmanship. Universal/Dreamworks have packed the physical release with copious special features like an alternate opening, footage of the voice cast, deleted sequences, and a look at the score. They even offer a lesson on making your own Brightbill Kite.

The Wild Robot feels like an instant classic and is a must-have for animation fans.

Ron Burgundy 20th Anniversary in 4K

Paramount’s 20th anniversary release of Ron Burgundy is in 4K, and it looks better than ever. It’s accompanied by every special feature imaginable, including the extended version and the entirety of Wake Up Ron Burgundy. There’s also a poster, art cards, a sticker, and too many special features to count. It’s a must-have for fans of this beloved comedy.

This release is a celebration of one of the most influential comedies of its era and is sure to bring back memories.

Bringing Out the Dead on Blu-ray

Paramount does an underrated job of remastering and rereleasing its catalogue films. This 25th anniversary release of the Nicolas Cage drama is a celebration. With a script by Paul Schrader, it holds up remarkably well. Paramount has remastered it in 4K from the original negative and included never-before-seen special features with contributions from Martin Scorsese, Cage, and others.

This release is a testament to the enduring power of this film and Paramount’s commitment to quality.

Interstellar Special Edition

Christopher Nolan fans, this is what you want this holiday season. Paramount is issuing a special edition of Interstellar with physical collectibles like costume patches and poster reproductions. It includes 4K and standard Blu-ray discs, but the third disc of special features is a big draw, with a new featurette and contributions from luminaries like Peter Jackson and Denis Villeneuve. Interstellar feels like a significant part of the cinematic conversation.

This release is a must-have for Nolan fans and showcases the importance of this film in cinema history.