Criterion Collection: 25 Films by Akira Kurosawa

Source: The Criterion Collection

The Criterion Collection has payed tribute to one of the greatest directors in the history of cinema with its new collection AK 100: 25 Films by Akira Kurosawa. This new DVD collection, released on April 29th boasts the most complete collection of Kurosawa works ever to hit the U.S. and it spans over 50 years of of Japanese cinema.

25 films are included in this collection, starting with Kurosawa's early career with 1943's, Sanshiro Sugata, up to his final film released in 1993,Madadayo. Between these two pillars lies a rich assortment of influential masterpieces such as; Rashomon, Seven Samurai, The Hidden Fortress,Yojimbo and many, many more.

The linen bound collector's set will also include an illustrated book that has introductions and notes on each work by film historian Stephen Prince and a remembrance by author Donald Richie.

If you love the works Kurosawa (who doesn't?!) and have a little over $300 to drop, this collection should not disappoint.

The Magnificent Seven Collection

Source: Amazon.com

The Magnificent Seven is the quintessential Western and since its release in 1960 it has not lost any of its potency.

The film was based of the Kurosawa film Seven Samurai but transplanted into the Wild West. It featured a ridiculous cast of screen legends such as Yul Brynner, Steve McQueen, Charles Bronson and Eli Wallach among others. Following the success of The Magnificent Seven three sequels were created and all of these are included in the collection, while these films might lack the magnificence of the original they are still quality Westerns in their own right.

On May 11th you can get your hands on the complete collection of four magnificent films. The collection includes:

• The Magnificent Seven
• Return of the Magnificent Seven
• Guns of the the Magnificent Seven
• The Magnificent Seven Ride!

Nota Bene: Just like all of the great Westerns The Magnificent Seven had an amazing score. If you haven't heard this song I would question your decision to live under that rock!