Both editions look fantastic... but they are different. I think a decision on superiority may simply come down to personal preference (as it always does). I think both versions are equally as sharp, and although I would initially tend to lean to the Criterion, I suspect it is only that the image is brighter, not necessarily sharper. Both editions show good film grain and both are framed slightly differently for DVD. Because the Criterion is brighter the colors are very slightly different. It is impossible to know which is most accurate.  Honestly, I think the Universal may be the truer film-like appearance, but its is hard to say with any measure of assurance. The Criterion may be more appealing to some as it is brighter and the colors are, hence, more vibrant. Contrast and black levels looks very good on both. The Criterion has the better extras, but if you are not interested in them, then it makes sense to buy the less expensive Universal edition if you are not bothered by it being slightly darker.