49th Parallel (The Criterion Collection) DVD - Restored 1941 War

Our review of 49th Parallel (The Criterion Collection) finds it a compelling wartime thriller for viewers interested in classic English cinema and purposeful propaganda of the era. This 1941 film, directed by Michael Powell and starring Laurence Olivier and Leslie Howard, stands out for strong acting and a tense, morally driven narrative about Nazi survivors trying to reach neutral American soil after their U-Boat is bombed. The Criterion print is impressive and the package adds valuable context for film students and fans, making the DVD worth considering despite a few minor print hairs and a vintage presentation.

Key Features

• Director and cast: Michael Powell directs a tightly paced story that benefits from Laurence Olivier and Leslie Howard's committed performances, which heighten the film's dramatic stakes.
• Story and tone: The plot about Nazi survivors trying to reach the United States provides a rousing anti-fascist wartime narrative that keeps tension high throughout.
• Criterion print: Criterion's restoration gives the film a clean, archival presentation that preserves period detail and visual clarity for modern viewing.
• Special features: The second disc includes commentary, featurettes, and a standout 1981 BBC program on Powell and Pressburger that adds valuable historical and production context.
• Format: The release is presented in full frame format consistent with the film's original theatrical aspect, preserving its intended composition.

Who It's For

This DVD is best for collectors of classic cinema, students of wartime film and propaganda, and fans of Michael Powell, Laurence Olivier, or Leslie Howard who appreciate archival extras and historical context. The Criterion packaging and included featurettes make it especially useful for film study and repeat viewings.

Those seeking modern widescreen restorations or pristine digital transfers may want to compare formats, since the release is full frame and the print, while excellent, retains a few hairs. Casual viewers expecting contemporary picture cleanliness might prefer a newer remaster.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Strong performances that elevate the tense, anti-fascist storyline and give the characters real urgency.
• Criterion's print delivers archival quality and respectful preservation of a 1941 classic.
• Generous special features, including commentary and a 1981 BBC feature on the directors, enrich understanding of the film's production and legacy.

Cons

• The full frame presentation and a few remaining hairs in the print mean it is not a flawless modern restoration.

Specifications

Title	49th Parallel (The Criterion Collection)
Format	DVD, Full Frame Format
Director	Michael Powell
Principal Cast	Laurence Olivier, Leslie Howard, Glynis Johns
Year of Release	1941
Special Features	Commentary, Featurettes, Short Film, 1981 BBC program
Set Contains	Criterion print of the 1941 film and a second-disc of special features

Our Verdict

This Criterion DVD of 49th Parallel is recommended for collectors and students of classic war cinema who value performance, historical context, and archival extras. While not a flawless modern remaster, its strong acting, purposeful anti-fascist narrative, and rich supplementary material make it good value for anyone wanting a thoughtful edition of this 1941 film.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a restored Criterion print?
Yes, the release uses Criterion's print of the 1941 film, offering an archival-quality presentation despite a few minor hairs remaining.

What extras are included?
The set includes commentary, featurettes, a short film, and a notable 1981 BBC show on directors Powell and Pressburger.

What format is the film presented in?
The DVD is presented in full frame format, reflecting the original theatrical composition.