NOTE: The 2 features of this boxset are housed in individual slim transparent keep cases (see image above) and they are not sold separately at this time. These particular editions can only be obtained in Criterion's Eclipse Series Eleven - Larisa Shepitko package at present.

The Ascent: is cleaner and black levels, and contrast in general, is superior to the older film. This has brought detail up a notch and overall it looks better than I would have anticipated. The quality is fairly consistent with no significant damage or marks. It can look quite impressive at times.   

Bitrates are average for Wings (6.15 mb/s), but at the higher end for The Ascent (7.19 mb/s).

Aside from one page liner notes for each film (visible on the inner case sleeve through the transparent case cover) there are no supplements. This is consistent from Eclipse. 

Both audio tracks are Russian mono and reflected comparably to the image quality with the younger film standing as marginally clearer and cleaner. Both are acceptable for standard viewing and there are optional English subtitles available.

I watched both films as soon as they arrived in the post and I'd prefer to reflect somewhat before passing judgment or making any strong comments. I thought the imagery was unique and highly memorable. In my notes I made references to many other Soviet films that I have seen including The Cranes are Flying, Ballad of a Soldier and even some of the works of Andrei Tarkovsky (especially the beginning of The Ascent).

Personally, I find this is the magnificence of the versatile disc format and what the Eclipse Collection are doing by exposing lost, forgotten or overshadowed classics in simple affordable editions. So many people would never have the opportunity to view these Shepitko films... excepting via this wonderful consumer convenience. To me, it is worth every penny and then some. I know I'll be revisiting these works again and yet again.  Film enthusiasts of a little over a decade ago might have to travel great distances seeking rare retrospectives for what we can now do in the leisure and comfort of our home theaters. 'Wow' - seems an understatement. We encourage Eclipse in their important project and endorse their series.