The Criterion Collection has announced an impressive lineup of July 2025 releases that showcase both cinematic masterpieces and contemporary gems. Film enthusiasts can expect a diverse selection including Fritz Lang’s noir classic “The Big Heat,” Mike Nichols’ provocative “Carnal Knowledge,” Stanley Kubrick’s “Barry Lyndon” in 4K, and several other significant titles.
Criterion Collection July 2025 Highlights Premium Film Restoration
The upcoming releases feature “a hard-boiled tale of vice and retribution directed by Fritz Lang; an unnervingly frank look at American masculinity in the postwar era, directed by Mike Nichols; and Kenneth Lonergan’s soulful study” among other notable films. This month’s selection demonstrates the collection’s commitment to preserving both classic Hollywood and international cinema.
The standout release is Fritz Lang’s “The Big Heat,” arriving with full 4K restoration. The film was released on June 24, 2025, marking another milestone in the collection’s extensive catalog of film noir masterpieces.
Major Studio Collaborations and International Cinema
Mike Nichols’ “Carnal Knowledge” represents a significant addition to the collection’s New Hollywood offerings. Written by Jules Feiffer, the stormy drama stars Jack Nicholson, Art Garfunkel, Candice Bergen, Ann-Margret, Rita Moreno, Carol Kane, and Cynthia O’Neal, showcasing the controversial and groundbreaking cinema of the 1970s.
Stanley Kubrick’s “Barry Lyndon” receives the 4K treatment, offering viewers an opportunity to experience the director’s meticulous cinematography in unprecedented detail. The collection describes this as “a much-deserved 4K of Barry Lyndon”, acknowledging the film’s visual significance.
Key Points Summary
- Release Timeline: Major titles are available July 15 and July 22, 2025
- Format Upgrades: Multiple films receiving 4K restoration treatment
- Genre Diversity: Film noir, New Hollywood drama, and international cinema represented
- Notable Directors: Fritz Lang, Mike Nichols, Stanley Kubrick, and Kenneth Lonergan featured
- Contemporary Addition: “All We Imagine as Light” by Payal Kapadia joins the collection
Expanding Digital and Physical Distribution
The collection continues expanding its reach through both physical media and streaming platforms. The Adventures of Antoine Doinel Collector’s Set is available July 15, 2025, representing the company’s commitment to comprehensive filmmaker retrospectives.
Recent additions also include Kenneth Lonergan’s “You Can Count On Me” and Payal Kapadia’s acclaimed “All We Imagine as Light,” demonstrating the collection’s dedication to both American independent cinema and international filmmaking.
Streaming Service Integration
The Criterion Channel continues complementing physical releases with curated streaming content. June 2025 programming invited viewers to “dive into some of cinema’s most memorable swimming pools, dine across Europe with Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon, and watch out for that suave sociopath Tom Ripley”, showcasing the platform’s thematic approach to film curation.
This integrated approach allows the collection to reach broader audiences while maintaining its reputation for quality film preservation and presentation. The streaming service provides additional context through special features and curated programming that enhances the viewing experience.
Future Releases and Collection Growth
Since 1984, the company has “dedicated ourselves to gathering and publishing the greatest films from around the world”, and the July 2025 releases continue this mission. The diverse selection reflects changing tastes in cinema appreciation while honoring the collection’s foundational commitment to film preservation.
The collection’s expansion into 4K formats demonstrates its adaptation to evolving technology while maintaining the artistic integrity that has defined the brand for decades. These releases represent careful curation that balances commercial appeal with artistic significance.
What excites you most about these upcoming releases? Share your thoughts on which films you’re planning to add to your collection, and stay tuned for more updates on future announcements.