The Ultimate Collection: Criterion Presents "The Complete Kubrick"

Criterion Collection has unveiled its monumental release, "The Complete Kubrick," a 30-disc compendium that, for the first time ever, gathers every cinematic work by the legendary director Stanley Kubrick. This comprehensive set, hitting shelves on October 20th, is not merely a collection of films but an homage to Kubrick's meticulous nature, even down to its packaging, which draws inspiration from the famed custom-made boxes that housed his extensive archives. Featuring all 13 feature films and three early shorts, this box set also boasts an impressive 25-plus hours of supplementary material, including rare interviews, insightful documentaries, and exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, offering an unparalleled deep dive into the visionary filmmaker's oeuvre.

The genesis of this ambitious project began with a more modest proposal: a 4K restoration of "Eyes Wide Shut." Associate producer Michael Chaiken, a veteran collaborator with Criterion, readily accepted the challenge. As the restoration progressed, the scope of the project expanded significantly, evolving into the grand vision of a complete Kubrick collection. This expansion was made possible by Criterion's existing relationships with various studios holding rights to Kubrick's films, as well as their prior work with the director on laser disc editions. However, bringing the early shorts and his debut feature, 1953's "Fear and Desire," into the fold presented unique hurdles due to their independent production, raising complex questions about rights and the whereabouts of original film elements. Securing the estate's approval for "Fear and Desire," a film Kubrick himself had withdrawn from circulation, was a pivotal moment, ultimately paving the way for its estate-authorized inclusion, ensuring the collection's true completeness.

A significant undertaking of this collection involved extensive restoration work. While some titles had already undergone studio restorations, others required entirely new masters. Criterion collaborated closely with Warner Bros. to make subtle yet significant adjustments to classics like "The Shining," "Full Metal Jacket," and "2001: A Space Odyssey," all under the watchful eye and approval of the Kubrick estate. A key focus was the restoration of Kubrick's original mono soundtracks, a detail that purists are expected to appreciate. Chaiken notes that while these changes might appear minor to the casual viewer, dedicated aficionados will undoubtedly recognize and value their impact, highlighting the meticulous attention to detail that defines this release. Furthermore, the collection includes never-before-seen materials, such as screen tests for "Lolita" featuring James Mason and Sue Lyon, an unused airbrush design for the "Full Metal Jacket" poster by Philip Castle, and rare photographs and documents adorned with Kubrick's personal handwritten notes, offering intimate glimpses into his creative process.

The extensive supplemental features are a treasure trove for film scholars and fans alike. New commentaries from filmmaker Lee Unkrich and author Michael Benson provide fresh perspectives, while archival interviews with collaborators such as Kirk Douglas and Peter Sellers offer historical insights. The set also includes Jan Harlan's acclaimed documentary, "Stanley Kubrick: A Life in Pictures," narrated by Tom Cruise. Notably, the international version of "The Shining" is featured, alongside a newly transferred version of Vivian Kubrick's documentary on its making, and her behind-the-scenes footage from "Full Metal Jacket." Chaiken also addresses and dismisses the persistent conspiracy theories surrounding "Eyes Wide Shut" and its alleged missing footage, affirming that his extensive examination of the archival material found no evidence to support such claims. Priced at $599.95 (or $479.96 through Criterion), this collection is positioned as the definitive acquisition for serious collectors, offering an unparalleled opportunity to own every facet of Stanley Kubrick's cinematic legacy, complete with the intricate details of his creative journey.