Black Narcissus (1947) Criterion 1080p BluRay x265 HEVC AAC-SARTRE

This explosive work about the conflict between the spirit and the flesh is the epitome of the sensuous style of Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger. A group of nuns—played by some of Britain’s finest actresses, including Deborah Kerr, Kathleen Byron, and Flora Robson—struggle to establish a convent in the Himalayas, while isolation, extreme weather, altitude, and culture clashes all conspire to drive the well-intentioned missionaries mad. A darkly grand film that won Oscars for Alfred Junge's art direction and Jack Cardiff's cinematography , Black Narcissus is one of the greatest achievements by two of cinema’s true visionaries.

Extras

• Bertrand Tavernier - A short introduction to the film by French director Bertrand Tavernier, an admirer and promoter of Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger's films. The introduction was recorded for the Institut Lumiere in 2006. In French, with optional English subtitles. (9 min, 720p).

• The Audacious Adventurer - In this video interview, recorded in 2006, Bertrand Tavernier talks about his friendship with Michael Powell. In French, with optional English subtitles. (18 min, 720p).

• Profile of "Black Narcissus" - A documentary on the making of Black Narcissus, produced in London in 2000, featuring interviews with members of the production team, including actress Kathleen Byron and cinematographer Jack Cardiff. (26 min, 720p).

• Painting with Light - A documentary about cinematographer Jack Cardiff and the production history of Black Narcissus, made for Criterion in 2000 by London-based filmmaker Craig McCall. McCall is also the director of Cameraman: The Life and Work of Jack Cardiff. (27 min, 720p).

• Trailer - The original theatrical trailer for the film. (3 min, 720p).

• Commentary - This audio commentary, recorded exclusively for Criterion in 1988, features director and co-producer Michael Powell and his longtime friend and admirer Martin Scorsese. This is a lovely commentary that offers an enormous amount of information not only about Black Narcissus, but also about the era during which the film was shot. Mr. Scorsese's comments, in particular, are outstanding. The commentary also appears in Criterion's old SDVD release of Black Narcissus.