Six Moral Tales (The Criterion Collection) Blu-ray

In this review of Six Moral Tales, the Criterion Blu-ray set compiles Eric Rohmer's formative series into a single accessible package for cinephiles who value observation over spectacle. The biggest reason to buy is the films themselves: intimate, conversational studies of desire and moral hesitation that defined Rohmer's voice and influenced generations of filmmakers. This three-disc edition restores the series for modern viewing and places the work in clear historical context, making it essential for students of the French New Wave and anyone interested in character-driven drama.

Key Features

• Restored transfers: The new 2K digital restoration improves image clarity and preserves the films' seasonal color palettes for a truer presentation.
• Three-disc special edition: Multiple discs organize the six films and supplements so viewers can explore the series without flipping between disparate releases.
• Comprehensive series: All six Moral Tales are presented together, offering the full arc of Rohmer's early thematic experiments in one set.
• Definitive packaging: Criterion's curation places the films in a historical frame that benefits study and repeated viewing for collectors and scholars.
• Focus on performance: The set highlights the work of actors like Jean-Claude Brialy and Bernard Verley, emphasizing Rohmer's conversational, actor-driven style.

Who It's For

This collection is aimed at serious film viewers: students of cinema history, fans of the French New Wave, and anyone who appreciates dialogue-led, character-focused drama. Those who enjoy thoughtful, slice-of-life storytelling and moral ambiguity will find these six films rewarding over repeated viewings.

Viewers seeking fast-paced plots, genre thrills, or single-disc convenience may want a different purchase; this set is deliberately contemplative and best enjoyed at leisure rather than as casual background entertainment.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Provides restored 2K transfers that enhance the visual subtleties and seasonal cinematography.
• Collects all six tales in a single three-disc Criterion package for completeness and study.
• Emphasizes Rohmer's writing and performances, useful for art-house viewers and students.

Cons

• Not suited to viewers who prefer plot-driven or action-oriented films, since the series prioritizes conversation and moral nuance.

Specifications

Our Verdict

Six Moral Tales on Blu-ray is an essential purchase for anyone invested in Rohmer's work or the development of modern film criticism turned filmmaking. The restored transfers and Criterion curation make this a lasting reference edition, and its focus on dialogue and moral texture delivers strong value for viewers who prefer thoughtful, actor-centered cinema.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all six films included?
Yes, the set contains all six films from Rohmer's Six Moral Tales series collected across three Blu-ray discs.

Does this release include restoration work?
Yes, the edition features a new 2K digital restoration intended to improve image clarity and color fidelity.

Is this set suitable for newcomers to Rohmer?
Yes, it is an excellent entry point for new viewers, though the pacing rewards patience and attention to conversational detail.