Criterion's Blu-ray is cited as a "2K digital transfer, approved by director Cristian Mungiu". The image is clean and looks thick with inherent softness and occasional use of a hand-held camera. The HD transfer is in-and-around the 2.4:1 aspect ratio on a dual-layered Blu-ray disc, with a supportive bitrate. Again there is a slight teal-leaning and colors are authentically drab in keeping with the art direction intentions. There is no noise or digitization and it appears to be a faithful replication of the theatrical showing.

Criterion offer a robust 5.1 surround DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack (24-bit). There is no composer credited and I don't recall any music. The surround separation easily handles the film's modest requirements although there at least a couple of instances of aggressive depth. There are optional English subtitles on this Region 'A' Blu-ray disc.

Criterion add plenty of supplements including a new 36-minute interview with Mungiu filmed by Criterion in Bucharest in 2018. He is very interesting in detailing his process, themes and this relates to his style. The Making of “Beyond the Hills,” is a 2003 a documentary from 2013, produced by Mungiu . It follows seeking locations and other production aspects. Quite good actually. Also included is a Press conference from the 2012 Cannes Film Festival, featuring Mungiu and actors Cosmina Stratan, Cristina Flutur, Valeriu Andriuţă, and Dana Tapalaga. It runs a full 52-minute. There are 12 deleted scenes - 20-minutes worth - however I would have liked some context or commentary for them to explain there removal. Lastly is a trailer. The package has a liner notes booklet with an essay by film scholar Doru Pop.

Beyond the Hills is a grim film, fascinatingly, exposing the intersection of love and faith. Mungiu does a brilliant job and the film is a, 'must-see', masterpiece. I was blown away.  Criterion's Blu-ray extras provide further value. Our highest recommendation! 

Colin Zavitz