The Night of the Hunter (The Criterion Collection) DVD - Classic Noir

Our review of The Night of the Hunter (The Criterion Collection) concludes this DVD is essential for viewers who appreciate striking, expressionistic filmmaking and authoritative performances. This single-disc release presents Charles Laughton's only film as a director, anchored by a chilling Robert Mitchum as the preacher Harry Powell and memorable support from Shelley Winters and Lillian Gish. The biggest reason to buy is the film's combination of eerie, painterly black-and-white photography and strong extras that underscore why this is regarded as a cinematic masterpiece.

Key Features

• Director and Cast: The DVD showcases Charles Laughton's only directorial effort and powerful performances by Robert Mitchum, Shelley Winters and Lillian Gish, highlighting acting quality central to the film.
• Visual Style: Striking black-and-white cinematography delivers an ethereal, expressionistic aesthetic that remains a core reason viewers praise the film's picture quality.
• Genre Blend: A horror film with a Grimm-like fairy tale sensibility, it offers a rare tonal mix that appeals to fans of noir and unsettling psychological storytelling.
• Extras and Context: The Criterion Collection package includes extras and contextual material that enhance appreciation of the film's artistry and production history.
• Performance Focus: Robert Mitchum's sinister portrayal and Lillian Gish's contributions are frequently singled out by viewers for their depth and nuance.
• Preservation: The release emphasizes careful presentation and attention to detail, improving accessibility to a historically important work.

Who It's For

The Night of the Hunter on DVD is for cinephiles, classic film collectors and anyone who values formal filmmaking choices such as expressionistic lighting, composed framing and strong, character-driven performances. Viewers who enjoy horror that relies on atmosphere and allegory rather than jump scares will find the film rewarding, as will admirers of Robert Mitchum's screen presence.

Those seeking fast-paced modern horror or straightforward procedural narratives should look elsewhere; a few viewers note mixed feelings about pacing, and the film's languid, deliberate rhythm and stylized approach demand patience and attention.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Powerful, unsettling lead performance by Robert Mitchum that anchors the film's menace.
• Exceptional black-and-white cinematography and aesthetic quality that make it visually arresting.
• Criterion extras and preservation care that add value and historical context.
• Strong support from Lillian Gish and Shelley Winters, enhancing dramatic depth.

Cons

• Deliberate pacing that some viewers may find slow compared with contemporary horror.
• As a single-disc DVD, modern viewers may prefer higher-resolution formats for the fullest picture detail.

Specifications

Title	The Night of the Hunter (The Criterion Collection)
Format	DVD
Director	Charles Laughton
Lead Cast	Robert Mitchum, Shelley Winters, Lillian Gish
Genre	Horror / Noir / Expressionistic
Presentation	Black-and-white cinematography
Extras	Criterion Collection supplementary material and contextual features

Our Verdict

The Criterion DVD of The Night of the Hunter is a worthwhile purchase for collectors and serious film viewers who value bold visual choices and memorable performances. While its measured pacing will not suit every viewer, the film's aesthetic power, acting quality and extras make it a compelling, good-value edition for anyone interested in classic American cinema.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this the version with extras?
Yes. This Criterion Collection DVD includes extras and contextual material that illuminate the film's production and significance.

Who stars in the film?
Robert Mitchum plays the sinister preacher Harry Powell, with Shelley Winters and Lillian Gish in important supporting roles.

What is notable about the visual presentation?
The film's black-and-white, expressionistic cinematography is frequently praised for its eerie beauty and strong aesthetic quality.