Shortly after winning the Oscar for Best Picture back in February, “Parasite” was announced as joining the Criterion Collection later this year. And now, thanks to an announcement from Criterion, we know when Bong Joon Ho’s incredible film will be making its debut. It appears that October is going to be an expensive month for film fans.
As you might expect from a Criterion release, “Parasite” will sport a brand-new 4k digital master approved by the filmmaker. Oh yeah, and it will include the much-discussed black and white version of the film, with Dolby Atmos sound. In addition, there will be a new commentary track featuring Bong and critic Tony Rayns. There will also be new interviews, as well as a program about the New Korean Cinema movement that will feature Bong Joon Ho and director Park Chan Wook. Basically, even if you own “Parasite” on Blu-ray already, the Criterion Collection release is definitely another must-have.
But October’s Criterion releases aren’t all Bong Joon Ho goodness. Joining “Parasite” is “Claudine,” starring Diahann Carroll and James Earl Jones. The film earned Carroll an Oscar nomination for her performance. Joining these films is also Jean-Luc Godard’s era-defining road trip “Pierrot le fou,” which is getting a brand-new 2K digital restoration. Henry King’s Western, “The Gunfighter,” starring Gregory Peck, is also getting a new restoration. And rounding out October’s offerings is Stephen Frears’ taut, stylish thriller, “The Hit,” which is being added to the Collection and will receive a Blu-ray release for the first time.
You can find out more about the October Criterion releases on the company’s website. Clearly, you’re also going to watch to grab your credit card before doing so.