The Magic Flute (The Criterion Collection) Blu-ray - Restored Opera

Our review of The Magic Flute (The Criterion Collection) Blu-ray finds it essential for fans of filmed opera and classic cinema. Mounted originally for Swedish television and directed by Ingmar Bergman, this edition stands out for its meticulous staging and a new 2K digital restoration that significantly improves picture clarity. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of Bergman's theatrical approach and the restoration work, which together present Mozart's fantasy as an intimate, audience-facing 18th-century stage production that translates exceptionally well to home viewing.

Key Features

• Film adaptation: Ingmar Bergman's stage-focused direction renders Mozart's story as a theatrical fantasy that highlights character and spectacle for home audiences.
• Restoration: A new 2K digital restoration enhances visual detail and delivers improved picture quality for modern Blu-ray players.
• Audio options: Swedish PCM stereo soundtrack presents the original performances, with mixed customer notes on variable audio fidelity.
• Subtitles: English subtitles are included so non-Swedish speakers can follow sung and spoken passages precisely.
• Bonus material: The disc includes the 1975 documentary Tystnad! Tagning! Trollflotjen! plus featurettes that contextualize Bergman's production for cinephiles.
• Running time: At 134 minutes, the film preserves the full scope of the opera while keeping a focused theatrical pace.

Who It's For

This Blu-ray is aimed at opera lovers, Bergman enthusiasts, and collectors who appreciate a filmed stage production that doubles as cinema. Those who value production quality and a faithful theatrical presentation will enjoy the carefully staged sets, period costuming, and the restored visual clarity.

Viewers who prioritize multi-channel surround mixes or modern remixes may want to consider other releases if stereo audio is a limiting factor, since customers report mixed impressions of the audio quality. Casual viewers seeking a lightweight comedy might also prefer a shorter, less operatic title.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Distinctive Bergman direction turns the opera into a compelling filmed stage piece that rewards repeated viewings.
• The 2K digital restoration improves video quality and brings renewed detail to sets and costumes.
• Includes useful extras like a 1975 documentary and featurettes that deepen appreciation for the production.
• English subtitles make the Swedish performances accessible to international audiences.

Cons

• Audio quality receives mixed feedback; the Swedish PCM stereo track may feel limited compared with modern surround mixes.
• Presentation is faithful to a theatrical staging, which may feel static to viewers expecting purely cinematic techniques.

Specifications

Title	The Magic Flute (The Criterion Collection)
Format	Blu-ray
Director	Ingmar Bergman (uncredited on original broadcast)
Running time	134 min
Soundtrack	Swedish PCM stereo
Subtitles	English
Extras	Documentary Tystnad! Tagning! Trollflotjen! (1975) and featurettes

Our Verdict

The Criterion Blu-ray of The Magic Flute is a rewarding purchase for serious opera and Bergman fans because it preserves the theatrical intimacy while offering a notable 2K restoration and worthwhile bonus material. Despite mixed reactions to the stereo audio, the edition delivers strong production and video quality that make it good value for collectors and those who appreciate a filmed stage classic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this release in English?
Performances are in Swedish with English subtitles included.

Does the disc include extras?
Yes, it contains the 1975 documentary Tystnad! Tagning! Trollflotjen! and several featurettes.

Has the picture been restored?
Yes, the release features a new 2K digital restoration noted for improving video clarity.