The Passion of Joan of Arc (The Criterion Collection)
Criterion's release of Carl Dreyer's landmark filmThe Passion of Joan of Arcis a definitive example of DVD restoration. Initially believed to be lost forever in a fire, this transfer was created at 24 frames per second from a negative of the rediscovered original version. For a film released in 1928,The Passion of Joan of Arclooks absolutely remarkable. As with most silent films, Dreyer'sJoanwas originally presented to audiences with different pieces of music. Criterion has chosen composer Richard Einhorn'sVoices of Lightfor this edition. Inspired by the film, Einhorn's piece, presented in 5.1 surround sound, is a wonderful compliment to Dreyer's visual presentation.   Notable extras include a history of the film's many versions and an audio interview with Renee Falconetti's daughter. However, by far the best "extra" is Dreyer scholar Casper Tybjerg's incredible commentary that informatively combines rich details of the film's importance and content with known historical elements of St. Joan's life, trial and death.--Rob Bracco