What's Happening?
Guillermo del Toro's 'Frankenstein' and 'KPop Demon Hunters' have been added to the Criterion Collection, marking a significant achievement for both films. 'Frankenstein,' a visually bold reimagining of Mary Shelley's classic tale, was nominated for nine
Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Supporting Actor for Jacob Elordi. The film, featuring Oscar Isaac, Christoph Waltz, and Mia Goth, showcases del Toro's signature style of portraying monsters as more sympathetic than their human counterparts. 'KPop Demon Hunters,' directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, became a viral sensation on Netflix, earning accolades such as the Golden Globe and Critics’ Choice Awards for Best Animated Motion Picture and Song. The film's hit song 'Golden' also made history as the first K-Pop song to win a Grammy. Both films' inclusion in the Criterion Collection underscores their cultural and artistic significance.
Why It's Important?
The addition of 'Frankenstein' and 'KPop Demon Hunters' to the Criterion Collection highlights the growing recognition of streaming platform releases in the realm of high-quality cinema. This move signifies a shift in how films are valued, with streaming services like Netflix becoming key players in the film industry. The Criterion Collection is known for its high standards in film preservation and presentation, and its decision to include these films reflects their lasting impact and cultural relevance. This development could encourage more filmmakers to explore streaming platforms as viable avenues for releasing and distributing their work, potentially altering the traditional film distribution landscape.
What's Next?
With the inclusion of these films in the Criterion Collection, there may be increased interest in both 'Frankenstein' and 'KPop Demon Hunters,' potentially leading to further accolades and recognition. The films' success could inspire other filmmakers to pursue similar paths, leveraging streaming platforms for both creative freedom and audience reach. Additionally, the Criterion Collection's continued expansion to include more contemporary and diverse films may influence other film preservation entities to broaden their scope, further integrating streaming content into the canon of esteemed cinema.
