Still, both have such great value, even if only one is a classic.
And my reviews of the Criterion Blu-rays ofStagecoachandSummer Hoursfollow after the jump.
To start with, it should be said thatStagecoachdoes not look pristine.
As for the film itself, its the very model of an action film.
Its hard not to focus on the introductory shot of John Wayne into the picture.
Thats John Ford for you.
And this is a classic example of narrative simplicity, visual storytelling and a driven narrative.
There are two conflicts: One is Ringos revenge, the other is getting the stagecoach to that conflict.
Partly, it should be noted, because they were ripped off from this film.
You watch a man fall off a horse here and you know theres no faking going on.
Like I said, the transfer is noticeably flawed, but also beautiful.
Theres an early film by John Ford called Bucking Broadway (54 min.)
featuring Harry Carey thats an amusing look at Fords early career.
Then theres a 1968 interview with Ford (72 min.)
where the director treats his interviewer with outright disdain.
Its fascinating and painful to watch.
And as to be expected, Peter Bogdanovich chimes in his thoughts (14 min.).
Dreaming of Jeannie (22 min.)
Some of John Fords home movies are included (7 min.
), and it features moments with Fords collaborators like Greg Tolland.
True West (11 min.)
Stunt god Vic Armstrong talks about how inspirational Yakima Canutt (10 min.)
and the films theatrical trailer.
Olivier AssayassSummer Hoursis all about a familys house, and the passing of their matriarch.
Edith Scob plays Helene, the mother of three children, and executor of a famous painter.
That art has loomed large over their summer home, where Helene still resides with her maid.
The longing to hold on to something that has already turned into something else.
Its poignant, and reflective and honest.
The Criterion collection presents the film in widescreen (1.78:1) and in DTS-HD 5.1 master audio.
The transfer is perfect.
The film comes with an interview with Assayas (29 min.
), a making of (26 min.
), and the documentary Inventory (51 min.
), about how the film dealt with preservation of art.
These are solid documentary pieces, and Assayas is a fascinating interview.
