Label Of The Month: 6 Must-Have 4K & Blu-ray Criterion Releases You Can’t Miss
05 November, 2025From Italian neorealism to French musicals, feminist road movies to modern fables, The Criterion Collection is a what’s what of iconic film history. That’s why it’s our Collector's Label of the Month for November! The Criterion Collection bring legendary storytelling and impeccable restorations right to your shelf. Whether you’re revisiting an old favourite or discovering something new, check out six of our top picks available in stunning 4K UHD and Blu-ray editions. (Also, save up to 50% on selected titles now!)
Shoeshine (1946)
Vittorio De Sica’s Shoeshine (1946) follows two kids in post-war Rome who work as shoe shiners, dreaming of buying a horse one day only to get tangled up in a petty crime and end up in juvenile prison. It’s rough, tender, and full of sincere humanity- the kind that has defined Italian neorealism and made it so special. It became the first film to win the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film in 1947, and is a prime example of just how influential early films were.
Criterion’s new 4K UHD + Blu-ray release gives it a stunning restoration that really does justice to De Sica’s vision.
Ugetsu (1953)
Kenji Mizoguchi’s Ugetsu (1953) is pure magic. A precursor to Japan’s new wave movement, it hints at the shift toward bolder, more rebellious filmmaking that would follow in the late 50s. Ugetsu is part ghost story, part war drama, and all atmosphere. Two villagers chase dreams of fortune while their families and souls start to slip away, floating between the real and the supernatural in a way that Japanese cinema of the time did oh so well.
Criterion’s 4K UHD + Blu-ray edition brings out its ethereal beauty, and it’s packed with extras.
Thelma & Louise (1991)
Few films have burned their way into pop culture quite like Thelma & Louise (1991). Ridley Scott’s road-movie-turned-feminist-anthem follows Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis as two women whose brief fishing trip becomes a game of cat and mouse with the law. It’s rebellious, emotional, and surprisingly funny.
Criterion’s 4K and Blu-ray release gives it the love it deserves, with a gorgeous new restoration and extras that celebrate its legacy- not to mention that new cover art! Thelma and Louise is one of those “must-own” modern classics.
The Umbrellas of Cherbourg (1964)
Jacques Demy’s 1964 French musical starring a young Catherine Deneuve tells a simple love story with an explosion of colour, melody and melancholy. The Umbrellas of Cherbourg is super stylish and utterly sincere, not to mention heartbreaking, but in a bittersweet kind of way- although not making it any less effective.
If ever there were a film that lends itself to 4K UHD, it’s this one. Criterion’s restored edition captures every candy-coloured detail beautifully. If you’re into lush visuals, classic European cinema, this one’s a gem.
Punch-Drunk Love (2002)
Paul Thomas Anderson’s surreal genre-bender Punch-Drunk Love features Adam Sandler in one of his sparse dramatic roles as a lonely guy who finds love, rage, and absurd redemption in the weirdest of places. It’s a love story that blends romance with comedy, unsettling anxiety, explosive outbursts, and a unique visual style that create a rather jarring experience.
This restoration is complete with extras that dive into its oddball brilliance. An essential pick-up for collectors and PTA fans.
Anora (2024)
Sean Baker’s Best Picture-winning Anora (2024) is an utterly wild and funny fable-esque tale about a Brooklyn sex worker who marries into Russian oligarch money. She soon finds out that her fantasy pales in comparison to the harsh reality of the situation. It’s a story shrouded in both empathy and endless chaos.
This is the perfect reminder that Criterion isn’t just about old masterpieces; they’re still curating the ones being made right now.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector expanding your library or just dipping your toes into the Criterion Collection, these six films are perfect to start, or to revisit. So grab your favourites at up to 50% off while you can!
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