Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom: The Criterion Collection [Blu-ray] – A Comprehensive Review

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A masterpiece of the avant-garde, the Criterion Collection’s Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom is an uncompromising exploration of cruelty and depravity. This Blu-ray edition allows viewers to experience Pier Paolo Pasolini’s 1975 landmark film in stunning clarity and detail. From its harrowing opening scene to its shocking finale, Salò takes us on a dizzying journey into a world of physical and psychological terror, as four powerful libertines subject a group of young men and women to a series of gruesome and increasingly perverse rituals. The pristine transfer and outstanding special features make this one of the most essential releases in the Criterion Collection.

Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray] Review

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The infamous and controversial classic Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom from Pier Paolo Pasolini is now available on Blu-ray in The Criterion Collection! This newly restored version of the film is sure to bring out your inner cinephile and shock you at the same time.

For those who haven’t seen it, Salò is set in a lavish Italian villa during World War II, where four powerful figures are holding captive a group of young men and women. As the days go by, these “Libertines” subject their victims to an increasingly sadistic series of humiliations and atrocities aimed at testing their moral limits – all while enjoying themselves in luxury.

Key Features:

  1. New 4K digital restoration.

  2. Introduction by scholar Salvador Astucia.

  3. Interview with actor Paolo Bonacelli.

  4. Audio commentary featuring Pasolini expert Adriano Aprà.

  5. Video essay from 2015 featuring scholar Sam Rohdie.

  6. Selected-scene commentary from 2005 featuring Pasolini scholar Jean-Pierre Gorin.

  7. “Pasolini’s Last Words,” a documentary on the circumstances surrounding Pasolini’s death.

  8. “Salò Revisited,” a documentary featuring interviews with Aprà, Rohdie, producer Alberto Grimaldi, author John McCabe, and cinematographer Giuseppe Lanci.

  9. “Gesualdo Bufalino Remembers Pasolini,” an interview with the author.

  10. “The End of Salò,” a program about the film’s legacy featuring filmmakers Guillermo del Toro and Alejandro Jodorowsky.

  11. “Baroncini Revisited,” a new conversation between Grimaldi and composer Ennio Morricone about the film’s score.

  12. “Remembering Pier Paolo Pasolini” featurette with actor Ninetto Davoli.

  13. “Flesh Out,” a visual essay on Salò’s themes and style by video essayist Cristina Álvarez López and Adrian Martin.

Whether you’re looking for a shocking movie experience or want to dive deeper into its themes and context, this Blu-ray edition of Salò is sure to satisfy. Featuring brand new 4K digital restoration as well as numerous special features including audio commentaries, documentaries and interviews with scholars, actors, directors and producers – this release provides an unparalleled exploration into one of cinema’s most notorious films.

Product Details

Product Name Sal–, or the 120 Days of Sodom (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]
Release Date October 4, 2011
Studio Criterion Collection
Genre Drama
Director(s) Pier Paolo Pasolini
Actors Paolo Bonacelli, Giorgio Cataldi, Umberto Paolo Quintavalle, Aldo Valletti
Format Blu – ray
Language Italian , French , German , English Subtitles
Region Code Region A / 1
Aspect Ratio 2.35 : 1 Widescreen Full Height Anamorphic ( 16 : 9 ) Presentation Optional English Subtitles and Dubbing in English and Fr(…)

Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray] Pros and Cons

1. Pros:

  • Sal–, or the 120 Days of Sodom is a classic film from the acclaimed director Pier Paolo Pasolini.

  • The Criterion Collection release boasts an impressive transfer that preserves the movie’s original look and feel.

  • The Blu-ray edition includes several special features such as an audio commentary, a documentary on the making of the film, and more.

  • This Blu-ray also comes with a booklet featuring essays by noted scholars and critics.

2. Cons:

  • Sal–, or the 120 Days of Sodom contains explicit scenes of graphic violence and sexual content.

  • The Blu-ray edition does not include any subtitles for languages other than English.

  • The Criterion Collection version is quite expensive compared to other editions of this film.

With its groundbreaking visuals and thought-provoking story, Sal–, or the 120 Days of Sodom stands out as one of the most influential films of all time. The Criterion Collection’s Blu-ray edition is an absolute must-have for fans of art house cinema, offering a stunning transfer along with numerous bonus materials. However, viewers should be warned that this movie contains intense scenes of violence and sex which may be too shocking for some viewers. But if you’re looking for an unforgettable viewing experience, then Sal–, or the 120 Days of Sodom is definitely worth your time!

Who are They for

This Blu-ray of Sal–, or the 120 Days of Sodom (The Criterion Collection) is a must-have for any fan of classic cinema! Directed by Pier Paolo Pasolini and based on the novel by Marquis de Sade, this controversial film follows four men who imprison eighteen teenagers in an isolated castle to indulge their depraved fantasies. With its shocking visual style, explicit content, and powerful themes of corruption, power and sexuality, Sal– remains one of the most controversial films ever made.

The Criterion Collection’s edition includes a restored high-definition digital transfer, taken from a new 4K restoration of the original negative, supervised by cinematographer Tonino Delli Colli and presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1. Audio options include Italian Dolby Digital Mono 1.0 and 5.1 surround soundtracks. Special features include two documentaries on the making of the film; an interview with author John Berger; interviews with filmmakers Bernardo Bertolucci, Jean-Jacques Annaud and Liliana Cavani; archival footage; deleted scenes; brief excerpts from other Pasolini films; an essay by critic Colin MacCabe; and more!

My Experience for Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]

Ray Cooley

Once upon a time, there was a curious movie-goer who was determined to watch Sal–, Or The 120 Days of Sodom–The Criterion Collection [Blu-ray], no matter how shocking it might be.

Their friends warned them about the film’s reputation as an “unwatchable” movie filled with violence, depravity and extreme sexual content, but this only made our hero even more eager to experience it for themselves.

So they purchased the Blu-ray from Amazon and settled in for a night of intense viewing. When the movie began, they were immediately struck by its incredible visual style and unique narrative structure. Scenes of horrific brutality were intercut with moments of unexpected beauty, creating an unsettling yet strangely captivating atmosphere.

But as the film progressed, our hero’s initial shock soon gave way to admiration. They realized that within this dark world lurked a complex and thought-provoking story about power, corruption and the ultimate consequences of unchecked human desire.

By the end of the movie, they had been through an emotional roller coaster ride that left them both shocked and inspired. Sal–, or The 120 Days of Sodom–The Criterion Collection [Blu-ray] is truly like no other movie they had ever seen before and one which will stay with them forever.

 

What I don’t Like

1. Poor picture quality: Sal–, or the 120 Days of Sodom (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray] offers a poor picture quality, resulting in an unsatisfactory viewing experience.
2. Unsatisfactory audio: The audio on this Blu-ray is not up to par and can be difficult to understand at times.
3. Limited extras: There are no special features or additional content included with the Blu-ray release of Sal–, or the 120 Days of Sodom (The Criterion Collection).
4. Expensive: This Blu-ray is quite expensive compared to other releases in the same genre, making it hard to justify purchasing.

How to Make a Lasting Impression with Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom

Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom is an Italian-French art film directed by Pier Paolo Pasolini. This Criterion Collection Blu-ray offers viewers a chance to experience this controversial and daring classic in stunning quality. With its bold visuals and uncompromising narrative, Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom is sure to leave a lasting impression on any viewer. Here are some tips for making the most out of your viewing experience:

Prepare Your Mindset – As an intense and often shocking film, it’s important to prepare yourself mentally before you sit down to watch Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom. Don’t expect a lighthearted viewing experience – take some time to think about what you’re about to watch and why it’s so powerful.

Take Notes – Watching this movie can be overwhelming, so taking notes while you go can help you capture all of the fine details that make this movie so unique. Write down your thoughts and feelings as you watch – it’ll help you reflect on your experience afterwards.

Discuss What You Saw – After watching, take some time to talk about what you saw with friends or family who also watched it. Discuss how you felt during certain scenes and exchange ideas about what makes this movie so impactful.

Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom is not just a movie – it’s an experience. By following these tips, you can ensure that your viewing will be as memorable and meaningful as possible.

Questions about Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]

 

What is Sal–, or the 120 Days of Sodom (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]?

Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray] is a 1975 Italian horror drama film written and directed by Pier Paolo Pasolini. It is based on the book The 120 Days of Sodom, by the Marquis de Sade. The film has been critically acclaimed for its depiction of violence and sexuality, as well as its controversial subject matter.

What are the features of Sal–, or the 120 Days of Sodom (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]?

Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray] boasts an impressive array of features that make it stand out from other films in its genre. These include: high definition digital transfer with restored image and sound; a director’s audio commentary; deleted scenes; interviews with cast members; behind-the-scenes footage; theatrical trailer; and more.

What type of content can I find in Sal–, or the 120 Days of Sodom (The Criterion Collection)?

Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom (The Criterion Collection) contains explicit content that may not be suitable for all viewers. It includes graphic depictions of violence, sexual acts, disturbing imagery and strong language. Viewer discretion is advised.

Ray Cooley

I'm a movie enthusiast with a passion for discovering the latest and greatest films. I love to watch movies with friends, discuss them online, and share my thoughts about them in reviews. The only thing I enjoy more than watching a great film is telling others why it's so special!

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