ADDITION: (October 2014) Criterion Region 'A' - Blu-ray: The Criterion 1080P is also 1.66:1 but shows a little less information in the bottom of the frame and a little more on top. The side edges both show more information on the DVD. The SD from over 13-years ago is darker. This Blu-ray is from a 4K digital restoration - and while 'lighter' has superior contrast and looks quite good in-motion. Skin tones are cooler and appear more realistic. The SD did have a few compression style artifacts where the Blu-ray is quite smooth with hints at appealing film texture.

Criterion stay true-to-form with linear PCM monaural track at 1152 kbps in original Dutch. There isn't much aggression but the lossless exports some depth in certain scenes. It seems to support the film very well. There are optional English subtitles and my Oppo has identified it as being a region 'A'-locked disc.

Criterion offer a new, 20-minute, interview with director George Sluizer conducted by Criterion at his home in France May 2014. The director discusses the challenges of adapting The Vanishing from its source novel, the psychology of its characters, and his approach to building suspense. There is also a new, 15-minite, interview with actor Johanna ter Steege who made her film debut as Saskia in The Vanishing which earned her the European Film Award for best supporting actress. In this interview, conducted by Criterion in June 2014, she recalls the extensive back-story she created for her character, working with director George Sluizer, and how the experience shaped her approach to acting. There is also a trailer and the package contains a liner notes booklet with an essay by critic Scott Foundas.

Chilling and often disturbing film that I haven't seen in a decade. It remains extremely impacting and an integral part of many digital libraries. Certainly a 'must-see' experience. Absolutely recommended.

ON THE DVD (October 2001): I like to consider this part of the renaissance of Criterion. Their first 23 issues were not taken from HD source, and their next 100 or so, many of which are excellent, did not establish consistency of product (a few clunkers were thrown in both in title and image quality). But from about this issue (#133) onwards I began to buy 'blind'... with confidence that I would most typically get a solid Film/DVD package. I can't recall a total disappointment since.

The Vanishing's 1.66 anamorphic image is very good. It has moments of looking quite thin but sharpness and decent color and contrast are always there. Black levels are exceptional. Subtitles are top-notch. No extras (aside from the trailer and typically professional liner notes) keeps this at the lower price point. This is one film that will stay with you for years... and years. "Haunting" would be appropriate. out of  

Gary W. Tooze