Criterion Crazy: October 2025 Releases
Written by Andreas Babiolakis
Even though we are in the middle of July, the Criterion Collection has announced its October lineup of new releases. In case you are new to how Criterion operates, the October slate is usually full of spooky films that are fit for Halloween (for obvious reasons). This year’s selection is no different, even though I’d argue that not all of these films are full-on horror releases (they still feel right at home nonetheless). A couple of the titles below are ones that have been coveted for years by Criterion fans, while — I must admit — we do have one film that is a little bit of a headscratcher (but it is the affiliated director’s prominence in the Criterion Collection that justifies its selection). Believe it or not, there haven’t been many months where Criterion has upgraded two films to 4K at once (when it felt like the standard for a year or two), but we do have a pair of upgrades that you will be dying to have in your collection (both beg to be seen in 4K as well). Let’s tread into the dark and explore Criterion’s latest horror and thriller selections.
The Favourite: A History of Violence (2005)
While David Cronenberg’s horror films are clearly adored, his two crime films of the aughts — A History of Violence, and the even-better Eastern Promises — are exquisite analyses of the depths of sin and guilt. One of these films is finally in the Criterion Collection. I must say that — while I do think the box art looks fascinating on its own — it doesn’t really fit with the tone of the film (the painting is clearly a thematic match, but I feel like most original Criterion artworks capture how their respective films feel, and that is kind of missing here). The cover art reads like a gloomy satire like Beau is Afraid, not the brooding neo-noir thriller that it is. However, don’t judge a book by its cover because A History of Violence is a brilliant feature film; while a common find in cheap DVD bins (where many of us fans discovered it, I’m sure), it’ll be nice to upgrade to either a Blu-ray or — here it comes — a 4K version of this beloved film. There are some new features to entice you to make the leap as well, including audio commentary by Cronenberg, an interview with the film’s screenwriter (Tom Bernardo), snippets of Cronenberg interviewing star Viggo Mortensen at the Toronto International Film Festival back in 2014, featurettes, a making-of documentary, and a classic Criterion essay (this time by critic Nathan Lee). If you haven’t seen A History of Violence, I cannot stress enough that this is one of the ultimate crime films of the twenty-first century, and you would be a fool to miss out on this blind buy.
Note: Cronenberg’s latest film, The Shrouds, is also being released, except through Criterion’s contemporary series, Criterion Premieres, which you can pick-up here.
What About the Older One: Nightmare Alley (2021)
Guillermo del Toro is no stranger to the Criterion Collection, with a vast majority of his films having been accessioned over the years. It should come as no surprise that his adaptation of Edmund Goulding’s Nightmare Alley has been added to the Collection, but I also feel like it’s a bit of an odd pick. Sure, I like the film, even though I do find the film overlong and takes a bit of time to get rolling. However, not many people are talking about Nightmare Alley anymore, whereas most of del Toro’s releases have much more staying power. Nonetheless, Nightmare Alley is here and it comes with artwork that maybe oversells the film (this boxart is stunning). That is until you learn that this version comes with a black-and-white extended director’s cut of the film which suddenly makes this whole release feel all the more worthwhile and intriguing (even though, dare I point out, that the film already felt too long, so would it being extended help or hurt the film?). There is also the extra incentive to pick up this copy of Nightmare Alley because it is available solely in 4K through Criterion (even with my slight reservations, this film looks great and I’m sure it will be spellbinding in 4K). Additionally, if there’s one thing you can count on with del Toro, it’s the full experience, and you get just that with the included features. His thumbprint is all over this release, including audio commentary by del Toro, a making-of documentary, multiple conversations between del Toro and other Nightmare Alley affiliates (like star Bradley Cooper, and coscreenwriter Kim Morgan), and more. The audience for this film feels niche, but are they in for a treat with this release of Nightmare Alley.
This is Your Brain on Drugs: Altered States (1980)
While not a big hit upon its initial release, Ken Russell’s psychedelic horror film Altered States has become a cult favourite in the years since. If you aren’t too familiar with Russell’s taboo take on cinema, I’d look more into his works and would stream his films instead of just blind buying anything outright. However, for the many who have seen Altered States, this Criterion release is a must. Also, for any fans of the legendary Paddy Chayefsky (of Network and Marty fame), you have to watch this adaptation of his novel (which Chayefsky handled himself). First off, look at the gorgeous cover art which captures the essence of the film with pinpoint accuracy. Next, take note that Altered States is going to be released in both Blu-ray (wow) and 4K (WOW) formats, and this is a film that has to be seen with the best setup possible (if that includes weed gummies, so be it). This release comes with audio commentary from film historian Samm Deighan, archival interviews with Russell and the film’s star, William Hurt, and an interview with the visual effects designer Bran Farren.
Under-Seen Choice: Deep Crimson (1996)
Another film that is more of a thriller than an outright horror picture, Arturo Ripstein’s Deep Crimson is unquestionably the lesser known title to enter the Criterion Collection this month. This is what makes companies like Criterion special: the films awaiting their time in the spotlight, not the ones that have already been celebrated. This unorthodox look at serial killing will be available on both Blu-ray and 4K, with boxart that creates a certain mythos surrounding this under-seen title. The features include an interview with Ripstein and screenwriter Paz Alicia Garciadiego; both filmmakers are also a part of a recorded panel discussion from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. There’s also a classic Criterion essay from scholar Haden Guest. If you are a Criterion disciple who likes discovering films through the Collection, put Deep Crimson on your radar as a future pickup.
It’s Time to Upgrade: Eyes Without a Face (1960)
One of my all time favourite horror films is Georges Franju’s masterpiece, Eyes Without a Face. An uncanny, uncharacteristically gorgeous nightmare, this film is like an extended episode of The Twilight Zone (but all the more disturbing, I’d argue). This is a crucial watch for any fans of the genre, and it’s never too late to get around to Eyes Without a Face. If picking up a blind buy in 4K feels audacious, let me assure you that this film is exquisitely shot and begging to be seen in the best quality possible. Don’t walk or run — sprint to pick up Eyes Without a Face on 4K. You’ll thank me.
Let’s Keep Upgrading: Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me (1992)
The loss of David Lynch still stings for many of us, and we’ll always be grateful for any celebration of the surrealist titan. Enter Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me. This film has experienced a series of analyses over the years, from being initially ridiculed and eventually understood, to becoming pinnacles of post modern horror and a nightmarish depiction of objectification and misogyny. Fire Walk with Me has become a meaningful film for so many cinephiles. It makes sense that this film is now released in 4K, but what will make this version all the more meaningful is that the late Lynch oversaw the work that went into this release and is the last Criterion release that will be approved by the auteur. I know. It breaks my heart as well. We will never stop enjoying your films. Rest in peace, Mr. Lynch.
Andreas Babiolakis has a Masters degree in Film and Photography Preservation and Collections Management from Toronto Metropolitan University, as well as a Bachelors degree in Cinema Studies from York University. His favourite times of year are the Criterion Collection flash sales and the annual Toronto International Film Festival.