If you’re a fan of Wim Wenders, you’re likely familiar with his 1991 film “Until the End of the World.” And if you’re familiar with that film, then you probably know that there are about a half dozen different versions of the William Hurt-starring sci-fi drama. Well, thankfully, for the upcoming Criterion release of the film, the 287-minute Director’s Cut, is the version that is getting added to the coveted collection.
Criterion has recently announced its December 2019 additions to the acclaimed library, and leading the way is none other than the aforementioned Wenders film. Originally released in 1991, clocking in at a slim 158 minutes in the US (179 minutes in Europe), the highly-anticipated film fell flat with critics, as the filmmaker was hampered by the studio’s insistence that he release a standard-length feature. However, over the years, the film has been re-edited and expanded, culminating in 2015 with the release of the Director’s Cut that clocks in at just under 5 hours.
For the Criterion release, Wenders has supervised a brand-new 4K restoration of the film, as well as contributing a new introduction, interview, and a conversation between the filmmaker and musician David Byrne. So, for those hoping to see “Until the End of the World” with the best possible picture and sound, as well as in its definitive cut, the Criterion release is a must-have.
Joining “Until the End of the World” in the December 2019 Criterion class is the acclaimed 2006 feature from director Kelly Reichardt, “Old Joy.” Featuring a brand-new 2K restoration of the film, as well as new interviews with Reichardt, cinematographer Peter Sillen, and author Jonathan Raymond, “Old Joy” is yet another strong Criterion release. The film, much like the best work from the director, focuses on the Pacific Northwest as it tells the story of two old friends that reunite for a camping trip in the Cascade mountain range.
Other films getting the Criterion treatment in December include Ronald Neame’s classic military drama “Tunes of Glory” and “The Story of Temple Drake,” which stars Miriam Hopkins.
