THE BEST CRITERION COLLECTION RELEASES OF 2011!
I think that people like me enjoy lists so much for two pivotal reasons: they’re very easy to read (unlike long articles about why people like me enjoy lists so much), and they allow everyone involved a fleeting triumph over the ever-expanding infinitude of the universe. In retrospect, that second reason is kind of important.
The Criterion Collection is another one of those things that I love. But despite what previous installments of this column might have you believe, Criterion and lists don’t necessarily like to co-exist. This is kind of a problem for me. In fact, by leveling the playing field between seminal films from various eras and countries under the banner of a single brand, Criterion sort of explodes the concept of ranking things, altogether. The unified aesthetic of their releases tempts you to measure up the likes of Kaneto Shindo’s Kuroneko alongside something as wildly different as James L. Brooks’ Broadcast News, but the depth of context available in Criterion’s editions of those films remind you that it’s a terribly misguided idea. I guess what I’m trying to say is that simply ranking my favorite Criterion releases of the year in one lump list would be a rather empty exercise. Don’t get me wrong, I’m totally gonna do it anyway, but this is definitely one of those occasions that calls for more specific recognition.
So without any further ado, click over to Movies.com to read The First Annual Criterion Corner Awards!
