Criterion Collection Welcomes 'KPop Demon Hunters' and Guillermo del Toro's 'Frankenstein'
Roger EbertPulitzer Prize-winning film critic whose reviews and essays defined cinema criticism for decades.
Celebrating Cinematic Excellence: Two Netflix Hits Join the Prestigious Criterion Collection
A Monster Reimagined: Guillermo del Toro's Visionary "Frankenstein"
Guillermo del Toro's long-awaited rendition of Mary Shelley's classic, "Frankenstein," has earned its place in the esteemed Criterion Collection. The film, a visually stunning production from Netflix, garnered widespread critical praise and secured nine Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture. Jacob Elordi's portrayal of the Creature also received a nomination for Best Supporting Actor, highlighting the film's exceptional performances. Del Toro's dedication to this project spans decades, finally culminating in a cinematic experience celebrated for its rich visuals, intricate set designs, and profound narrative depth. Consistent with del Toro's signature style, the story delves into the humanity of its monstrous figure, often contrasting it with the perceived savagery of its human counterparts. The stellar cast also features Oscar Isaac, Christoph Waltz, and Mia Goth, who contribute to the film's compelling drama.
The Global Phenomenon: "KPop Demon Hunters" Takes Center Stage
The animated sensation "KPop Demon Hunters," a Netflix original, has also been inducted into the Criterion Collection, marking its significance in contemporary cinema. Upon its release last summer, the film achieved viral status, quickly becoming one of the most-streamed titles on the platform. Directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, it received both the Golden Globe and Critics' Choice Awards for Best Animated Motion Picture. Its hit song, "Golden," made history as the first K-Pop track to win a Grammy, further solidifying the film's cultural impact. "KPop Demon Hunters" continues its impressive awards run with nominations for Best Animated Feature and Original Song at the upcoming Academy Awards, underscoring its artistic and popular triumph.
The Criterion Legacy: A Commitment to Film Preservation and Recognition
The Criterion Collection is renowned for its dedication to curating a library of classic and modern films from across the globe. Each release is meticulously crafted to ensure the highest technical quality, often accompanied by extensive supplementary content such as exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes insights. The inclusion of "Frankenstein" and "KPop Demon Hunters" follows a tradition of recognizing groundbreaking Netflix productions, with past additions including Alfonso Cuarón's "Roma," Martin Scorsese's "The Irishman," Jane Campion's "The Power of the Dog," Noah Baumbach's "Marriage Story," and "Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio." Recently, the collection also announced the addition of other acclaimed films from the 2025 awards season, such as Joachim Trier's "Sentimental Value," Jafar Panahi's "It Was Just an Accident," and Kleber Mendonça Filho's "The Secret Agent," further demonstrating its commitment to showcasing cinematic excellence.

