I've saved up enough points at FreeDVDs.com to snag one more Criterion. It's basically at no cost to me so price isn't important.

Just started watching the Three Colors Trilogy and have really enjoyed so
I'm fine with foreign films and subtitles.

I'm hoping that some members of the forum will own one or more of these releases and can offer their opinions.

So far, I am down to a possible list of 4:

1. The Blob
2. 8 1/2
3. Black Narcissus
4. Wild Strawberries

Extras are always a plus and I know
that most of these have a good selection of them.

No matter which one I choose, I am going into this with a can't lose attitude.

Between those 4, I own The Blob so you know which one I'll vote for

Classic cheesy '50s horror movie.... and you'll be humming the theme song all night

my recommendations (not 1 of those) in no order:
do the right thing
traffic
straw dogs
life of brian
rushmore
haxan
tokyo olympiad
geaorge washington
and of the 5 hitchcocks

Like TomOpus, The Blob (1958) is the only one of those four I own, so I'd suggest you get it.

Steve McQueen

From the list I would lean toward 8 1/2.

I'd have to go with 8 1/2 out of those four. My personal recommendation, other than the Kurosawa films, is Le Trou. Just my opinion. I hope you enjoy whichever one you buy.

Le Trou is also on my want list, but I'm waiting to buy it later or get it through one of the other free DVD sites.

I appreciate the advice so far. This won't be an easy decision.
I'll definately have to check the list of extras on each disc again.

BTW, WiccanPagan mentioned Straw Dogs and, after watching it I have to agree. Great film and Susan George is easy
on the eyes.

I'd go with The Blob from that list

Both 8 1/2 and Wild Strawberries are in my all-time top 20 list.

If I had to chose between those two, I'd go with 8 1/2.

Wild Strawberries or 8 1/2.

I'd choose any of the other three before "The Blob".

Probably "Black Narcissus" "8 1/2" "Wild Strawberries" in that order.

I don't have any of the four, but if I bought one, it would be The Blob.

Rob

I'm dying to see The Black Narcissus.

I own all the films you listed except The Blob. You can't go wrong with any of the other three. I don't know what to suggest, since all of them are most worthy purchases.

If you don't get 8 1/2, I'll be very angry!

Black Narcissus

Out of those four, I'd get 8½. A magical exploration of the endless difficulties faced by the artist. But all of them, except The Blob, are masterpieces.

Of the 4 I would get 8 1/2. Of course, if that's not available I'd go for Black Narcissus, if only to see the gorgeous cinematography.

Of the four listed, I have 8 1/2 and Wild Strawberries. Both are excellent movies, but may not be your cup of tea. Have you seen any other Fellini or Bergman films? If so, and you enjoyed those, then by all means pick one of these up. If you have not, then I recommend Wild Strawberries, because I find Bergman much more accessible than Fellini for "newcomers."

Enjoy your free DVD!

i'll put in another 81/2 vote. great disc!

The Blob.

the dvdtalkers have spoken: 8 1/2 is the one to get!

Closing thread.

Gah, I see now I'm too late, but in case you need any more vindication in selecting "8 1/2", I can tell you that I own all four, and while they're all wonderful editions of wonderful movies, "8 1/2" is one of the best DVD's I own, hands down. The Nino Rota doc is worth the price alone. A beautiful edition of one of the greatest movies ever made, and most likely THE greatest movie ever made about film. I get something new from it every time I watch.

Another vote for 8 1/2.

Or Juliet of the Spirits, if that is available.

wild strawberries