Carl Theodor Dreyer Set (Day of Wrath / Ordet / Gertrud / My Metier) (The Criterion Collection)

These films are true works of art. If you have any sympathy for the work of Andrei Tarkovsky, or that of Ingmar Bergman, then it is almost certain that you will appreciate Dreyer. Tarkovsky himself praised Dreyer, and his influence is directly discernable in Bergman's films.*Ordet is, perhaps, the most shocking of the three. The film dwells upon the spiritual lives of its characters, and it addresses this spiritual plane in several ways - strikingly through madness, through sectarian conflict, and through the mysteries of birth and death. The utter seriousness of its approach (save for a humorous reference to Kierkegaard (believe it or not)) allows the viewer to enter unreservedly into the film's world, which in turn allows for a miraculous climax, that is unbearably moving, itself a miracle of the cinema. So many of the universal elements in human existence are at work here that each viewer will undoubtedly find resonances within his or her own life.*Day of Wrath is a disturbing Freudian drama, cloaked in a world of tyrranical religion and witchcraft. Arthur Miller's 'The Crucible' was allegedly influenced by this film. The second wife of an aging cleric, rather precipitiously engages in an affair with her husband's son from his first marriage, all under the stony eye of her fearsome mother-in-law. Self-reproach and resentment abound, and the damning of witches stands as an allegory that is not limited simply to sexuality.*The acting in both these films is particularly fine. Dreyer pioneers some cinematographic techniques too, such as the tracking of the camera while reverse panning, and some memorable horizon shots (was Kurosawa in the audience?).*Gertrud, while recognisably Dreyer's work, is quite different. Here the nature of time and its role in film is central, and one can she how this film might have been a catalyst for some of Tarkovsky's thoughts. The acting is incredibly stylised, and the tableau as carefully arranged as still lifes. This film is so far removed from ordinary film conventions that it can be hard to relate to - in terms of the viewing experience perhaps there are some similarities to seeing an Antonioni film, but not too many: this film is unique.*Criterion have provided their usual superb transfers, and an interesting documentary. Really, the whole production of this package is faultless. A booklet provides a short extract from the book 'Dreyer in Double Reflection: Carl Dreyer's Writings on Film', edited by Donald Skoller, and I can also recommend this book in its entirety. Finally, Dreyer's Passion of Joan of Arc, also on Criterion, is as great as any of these three films.

This set gives us a great sampling of Dreyer's style, which might be described as "neorealism". Dreyer felt that his films should be entertaining and not just for artistic analysis, but you have to see them to begin to get a feel for his style. The documentary disc supplied with this set is truly wonderful. It is entertaining and covers just about everything you would want to know about Dreyer. It even shows photos of his mother and childhood. It discusses his approach to his art and life's work in great detail. Many interviews with his actors and staff are included. Most of his major films are discussed in all aspects. If you want to find out about the films of Carl Theodor Dreyer as well as his life and thoughts this is an excellent choice for you!

Carl Th. Dreyer is a director in dire need of rediscovery by cineasts and dedicated tv broadcaster alike. DAY OF WRATH and ORDET used to figure frequently on prominent critics 10 BEST FILMS EVER lists ever but lately this Danish auteur seems to have been sidetracked. Now DAY OF WRATH and ORDET are again released in glorious, restored versions. Both utterly compelling films going straight for your brain and throat. These two masterpieces are complimented by Dreyer's last ouevre GERTRUD, a work with which the darling director of the young French New Wave directors managed to split a world of critics into two shouting halves. Also included in the beautiful box is a stunning new documentary. Treat yourself, treat your school, treat your viewers. It's doesn't come better.

Received this dvd before Christmas. It was in “MINT” condition. My son was thrilled as it is no longer in print. Thanks so much!!

I've been a longtime fan of the films of Dreyer, not only for the profound themes that he portrays in his films, but also for the unusual way he sets and composes his scenes. Each film I have viewed of his yields remarkably composed still scenes that would stand alone as works of art. The documentary DVD that accompanies this set is worth the price of the collection. Not only is it informative, but it is produced with an artistic visual style that perfectly complements its subject matter.

I purchased this set to check out "Ordet".The movie is quite theatrical, and a demanding drama which reward concentration.

It takes a few decades of viewing to sink in but face it Dreyer was one of the major mojos,- wish this box included Joan and Vampire.

Carl Dreyer's cinema is pure and clear as the eyes of Lisbeth Movin in "Day of wrath" ,his cinema is profound as Johannes Borgen speeches in "Ordet" and proud as Gertrud Kanning in "Gertrud".A truly one of a kind.Thanks criterion.

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