La haine in 4K UHD: A Criterion Collection Masterpiece

For cinephiles and enthusiasts of French cinema, the Criterion Collection’s release of “La haine” in 4K UHD is a momentous occasion. This gritty depiction of life in the Parisian suburbs brings to light the simmering tensions and daily struggles faced by its diverse inhabitants, providing a poignant commentary on France’s ongoing identity crisis.

A Gripping Tale of Struggle and Resentment

“La haine” follows a day in the lives of three young men from different ethnic backgrounds—Jewish, African, and Arab—as they navigate the challenges of their marginalized existence in the low-income banlieue districts. Portrayed by Vincent Cassel, Hubert Koundé, and Saïd Taghmaoui, these characters embody the frustrations and aspirations of France’s immigrant populations, leading to a narrative that’s as compelling as it is confrontational.

Director-Approved Special Edition Features

This special edition of “La haine” has been meticulously crafted, offering a wealth of features that enhance the viewing experience:

• New 4K digital master, supervised by director of photography Pierre Aïm and approved by director Mathieu Kassovitz, with 2.0 and 5.1 surround DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks
• One 4K UHD disc of the film presented in Dolby Vision HDR and one Blu-ray with the film and special features
• Audio commentary by Kassovitz
• Introduction by actor Jodie Foster
• Ten Years of “La haine,” a documentary featuring cast and crew members
• Featurette on the film’s banlieue setting
• Production footage
• Deleted and extended scenes, with afterwords by Kassovitz
• Behind-the-scenes photos
• Trailers
• PLUS: An essay by film scholar Ginette Vincendeau and a 2006 appreciation by filmmaker Costa-Gavras

Why This Edition is a Must-Have

The Criterion Collection’s release of “La haine” in 4K UHD is not merely a cinematic experience; it’s an essential cultural artifact. This edition not only showcases the film’s technical brilliance and artistic merit but also serves as a critical reflection on the societal tensions that continue to resonate. Accompanied by scholarly essays and appreciations, it provides a comprehensive look into a film that remains urgently relevant.

“La haine” is a testament to the power of cinema to provoke thought, evoke empathy, and inspire dialogue. This special edition ensures that the film’s tough beauty and vital message are preserved for new generations to discover and for longtime fans to revisit with a fresh perspective.

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