★★★★★ 5
2 Early Kubrick Films in 1 Thrilling Package
The most important thing for the buyer to know about The Killing Criterion Blu-Ray is that it collects 2 of Stanley Kubrick’s earlier films: The Killing (1956) and Killer’s Kiss (1955). Even though the Killer’s Kiss title is not on the box, it is present as an extra, along with its trailer.
Other than that, you can expect the usual from a Criterion Collection release. For those who don’t know, that means terrific quality and presentation, with loads of extra supplementary material.
As far as the movies themselves go — unlike Fear and Desire, I can actually recommend these two movies as movies, as opposed to morbid curiosities of Kubrick fanatics. They are both pretty intense crime thrillers and just a ton of fun. This is Kubrick before he makes big studio movies with big budgets, but after he’s gained more of the experience and sophistication he would later be known for. The product feels raw, gritty, sometimes intimate, and gives you a look at his NYC roots. Kubrick is still an underdog at this stage in his career. So, would definitely recommend for Kubrick fans, and just crime thriller fans in general
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on December 11, 2022
