NOTE: The below Blu-ray captures were taken directly from the Blu-ray disc.

ADDITION: Criterion Region 'A' Blu-ray: January 2011: On the surface there isn't a lot of difference between the Criterion Blu-ray presentation and the Artificial Eye (UK). Sometimes one transfer appears brighter than the other and then, in other scenes, it's the converse. Criterion definitely shows more grain and some fans will appreciate the more textured look. There is still minor noise in a couple of the darker scenes on both editions. Technically the AE is the frontrunner with a higher file size for the feature and, hence, a higher bitrate. Sometimes the Criterion black levels seem richer to me - but I think you would have to have quite a discerning system to notice much in the way of disparity in a visual sense. Both Blu-rays are extremely impressive on that front.

While both audio tracks are lossless - Criterion remain faithful with the stereo 2.0 channel track (the AE offers a 5.1 Surround). While the AE is more immersive the Criterion may be more accurate in the theatrical reproduction. This can be a very important issue for Kieslowski fans as the film's music and subtle effects play such a large role in the presentation. While it might have been ideal for both editions to offer both tracks (2.0 + 5.1) - this isn't the case but at least those placing emphasis on the audio have a hi-def choice.

Extras, of course, go easily to the fruitful Criterion with its many important and fascinating supplements (discussed below - duplicated from their DVD set - but video features in HD) - now all supplied and accessible on one disc. I still enjoy the Insdorf commentary - even upon multiple re-visitation and the interviews, shorts and booklet round out an essential package. For those with both the AE Blu-ray and the Criterion DVD - we don't suggest an upgrade is necessary. For everyone else this is a must-own film and the Criterion Blu-ray supplies so much it is hard to deny its place in any digital library.

Gary W. Tooze

***

ADDITION: Artificial Eye Blu-ray: March 2010:  As predicted, the upgrade to an HD image shows some significant improvements over the Criterion, with a sharper image, less noise, and more vibrant colors. While some shots may be less impressive than others (particularly those shot at a distance), the level of detail is generally superb. The film's sound also receives a clear boost here, going from non-HD tracks to DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. The musical scenes here really come alive with the upgrade. The Criterion DVD still slightly edges out the Blu-ray in the extras department as Artificial Eye's blu-ray has identical extras to the standard edition. Nevertheless, we have a new standard bearer for Kieslowski's masterpiece. Anyone looking to purchase this for the first time or to upgrade, would do well picking up this BD. Not only is is a substantial A/V improvement over all of the standard editions, but it's also region free!

***

ADDITION - Criterion - Region 1 - NTSC - November 06 - The Criterion appears sharper, slightly brighter and has less of the greenish/golden hue. I see no prominent signs of cropping. Subtitles are the same - generally the NTSC edition is best, but it's not overwhelming (depending on your system), but it does look superior. I will assume Criterion have minutely boosted the black levels to bring up the sharpness.

Criterion, as their usual preference, passed on the boosted 5.0 or 5.1 track option and has kept the 2.0 which sounded fine to my ear.

Most of the supplements are duplicated from the previous releases - They are excellent - A Conversation with Kieslowski (54:22), Interview with Irène Jacob (16:42), Kieslowski : Polish Filmmaker documentary (30:52), 4 Short Films - The Musician (10:17), The Factory (17:56), Hospital (20:48) and Railway Station (13:05).

But the Criterion has an insightful Insdorf commentary that is well worth the spin. I feel like I could listen to her all day - she has the most beautiful clear voice and her knowledge is extensive - she discusses Kieslowski's uncommon manner of storytelling and some interpretation of the film itself. No doubt one of my favorite commentaries of this year. On top of this are some new video interviews with cinematographer Slawomir Idziak (about 25 minutes) and composer Zbigniew Preisner (about 22 minutes) . Included is an an extensive booklet (actually a 70-page 'book') with articles by Jonathan Romney, Slavo Zizek, Peter Cowie and an excerpt on the book 'Kieslowski on Kieslowski'. As one might expect with Criterion - it is also flawlessly done in a tasteful and professional manner.

Bottom line: The Criterion is the definitive version but many will question whether they should upgrade if they already own one of the PAL editions. Personally I think the Insdorf commentary is reason enough but the almost hour of extra interviews and the spectacular book may be the final push to purchase. This is just another film that I want to own the best DVD edition available.

Gary W. Tooze

ADDITION- Artificial Eye - Region 2 - PAL - August 06 - A port of the MK2 edition, it appears to be identical.

 - Henrik Sylow

***

There are some subtitle package differences but I agree with Henrik regarding the image (duplicate) - extras are the same - and our investigation show the golden-hue was definitely intentional (by Slawomir Idziak / Krzysztof Zanussi).

Best to go for the cheapest of the two that you can find.

Gary W. Tooze

*****

One of the more highly anticipated DVD releases does not disappoint. Amongst knowledgeable DVD-ophiles MK2 is often considered the greatest production company in existence (Criterion included!). They consistently put out magnificent releases of desired narrative films in pristine condition - so much so that other companies often license there transfers. The MK2 edition comes with a 6 frame film strip negative from the film (this is limited to 20,000 - so it says - I have # 18181).

The anamorphic and progressive MK2 image is decidedly green-ish and I will have to consult some individuals to determine if this was intentional. I don't recall my old VHS looking this way BUT I do recall reading about discussions of this with Kielsowski's cameraman at the time. The aspect ratio has been maintained and it looks extremely film-like. The image is very clean and the English subtitles are exceptionally well-done. The 2nd disc of supplements are nothing short of fabulous. I will be reporting in my details after a second viewing but as it stands I am ecstatic about this release.

Gary W. Tooze