Orphic Trilogy

Decadent, subversive, and bristling with artistic invention, the myth-born cinema of Jean Cocteau disturbs as much as it charms. Cocteau was the most versatile of artists in prewar Paris. Poet, novelist, playwright, painter, celebrity, and maker of cinema-his many talents converged in bold, dreamlike films that continue to enthrall audiences around the world. In The Blood of Poet, Orpheus, and Testament of Orpheus, Cocteau utilizes the Orphic myth to explore the complex relationships between the artist and his creations, reality and the imagination. The Criterion Collection is proud to present the DVD premiere of the Orphic Trilogy in a special limited-edition three-disc box set.

Release Date: 2000-06-27, Rating Unrated,

DVDs. Orphic Trilogy

Release Date: 2000-06-27, Rating Unrated,

MOVIE DVD - With its beautifully transferred prints, restored sound, and extensive background information, the Orphic Trilogy collection will deepen your enjoyment and understanding of Jean Cocteau's trio of masterpieces. The first of the three discs contains The Blood of a Poet, with the sound digitally reconstructed, plus rare photos that give a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the film's production. There is also Edgardo Cozarinsky's documentary Jean Cocteau: Autobiography of an Unknown a transcript of a lecture given by Cocteau at a screening in 1932, a 1946 essay, a bibliofilmography , and a new English translation. Disc two features Orpheus, also fully restored and newly translated, along with Cocteau's 1950 essay on the work. The final disc includes a newly transferred and translated Testament of Orpheus; Villa Santo Sospir, a 16mm film by Cocteau; and several writings by Cocteau on the Testament. - Jean Cocteau's Orphic Trilogy (DVD)