The Three Musketeers and The Four Musketeers 4K UHD - Criterion

In this review of the Criterion 4K UHD edition, the two-part Richard Lester adaptation of Alexandre Dumas offers a spirited, comic-infused take on a timeless adventure. Fans of classic cinema and historical swashbucklers will find the collection valuable for its exuberant direction, meticulous period detail, and memorable performances by Michael York, Oliver Reed, and Frank Finlay. The single biggest reason to buy is the filmic revival of Dumas text through Lester's lively staging and a committed ensemble cast, making these films feel both faithful and freshly entertaining.

Key Features

• Director and Vision: Richard Lester's playful and fast-paced direction breathes new life into the story, blending slapstick invention with sincere drama to keep each scene engaging.
• Cast Performance: Performances by Michael York, Oliver Reed, and Frank Finlay provide convincing camaraderie and swordplay, anchoring the films in character-driven energy.
• Production Design: Meticulous attention to period detail in costumes and sets helps create an immersive seventeenth-century France that supports the adventure.
• Supporting Ensemble: An all-star supporting cast including Raquel Welch, Faye Dunaway, and Charlton Heston adds depth and star appeal across both films.
• Presentation: The 4K UHD transfer aims to restore visual clarity and texture, offering viewers a refreshed way to experience a classic adaptation.
• Tonal Range: The films balance boisterous comedy and courtly intrigue, giving audiences a varied emotional and aesthetic experience.

Who It's For

The set is ideal for classic film collectors, fans of swashbuckling adventures, and viewers who appreciate director-driven reinterpretations of literary material. Those who enjoy ensemble casts and theatrical, briskly staged action will find the dual films especially rewarding.

Casual viewers seeking a modern blockbuster pace or viewers prioritizing the deepest possible visual contrast might want to preview a clip first, since some customers report mixed opinions on video and audio characteristics despite the 4K remastering.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Exuberant direction by Richard Lester that refreshes a well-known tale and keeps the momentum lively.
• Strong ensemble performances that deliver character chemistry and memorable moments throughout both films.
• Careful period production design that enhances immersion in seventeenth-century France.
• 4K presentation that often clarifies textures and details compared with older releases.

Cons

• Some viewers note the video contrast and audio balance are mixed, so visual and sound improvements may vary by display and setup.

Specifications

Title	The Three Musketeers / The Four Musketeers
Format	4K UHD
Director	Richard Lester
Lead Cast	Michael York, Oliver Reed, Frank Finlay, Richard Chamberlain
Supporting Cast	Raquel Welch, Faye Dunaway, Geraldine Chaplin, Charlton Heston
Genre	Historical swashbuckling adventure

Our Verdict

The Criterion 4K UHD edition of these two Lester films is a strong purchase for anyone who values director-led adaptations, lively ensemble acting, and carefully realized period detail. It offers excellent entertainment value for collectors and fans of classic cinema, though buyers should be aware that video and audio impressions may vary by setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this edition include both films?
Yes, the collection comprises both The Three Musketeers and The Four Musketeers in the 4K UHD format.

Are the films restored for 4K?
The release presents a 4K transfer intended to refresh the films' visuals, though customers report mixed impressions of contrast and audio balance.

Who directed these films?
Both films were directed by Richard Lester, known for his energetic and inventive filmmaking style.