The Thief of Bagdad - Criterion Collection Reviews

• CRITERION VS MGM = THE EXACT SAME PRINT

  
  By A36ER94271DHJZ on 2008-05-29
  Yep that's right, I own both the MGM and now the Criterion versions of, The Thief Of Bagdad, and after comparing the opening sequence (with the boats and the cityscape), the scene where the blind man is telling his story so far, to the harem girls (where there's slight blurring in the long shots as well as a slight over enhancement shimmer on the blind man's face) and the registration problem area (where Sabu meets the spider in the temple) the print used is exactly the same one, as both versions have the exact same problems in exactly the same areas.
  
  As for the purported colour saturation differences between the two discs, from my close scrutiny of the movies, I'd have to say that there isn't any difference at all.
  
  The reds look over saturated to the point where the Grand Vizier's turban bleeds slightly, the blues are sky blue bright, and the skin tones are coppery, which is true to the skin tones of the people populating this movie.
  
  The real question now should be, why Criterion chose to release this film as is, without attempting to do any restoration?
  
  I had thought that the reason for the exuberant prices of Criterion DVDs was because we where suppose to be getting the best possible prints of films, but in this case, we're giving the same print with some extras, and expected to pay 3 times the price of the MGM disc.
  
  Also of note, the chapter selection is better on the MGM disc as there are pictures with the captions, where as the Criterion chapter select, is text only (something Anchor Bay did away with years ago, because it was too confusing, i.e. the Evil Dead DVD, "Evil dead attack", um, which evil dead attack, there are several, so the description is useless).
  
  So, as far as I'm concerned, the choice as to whether to get the Criterion edition rests with whether you want the extras and not with the picture quality.
  
  So if you have the MGM DVD and aren't interested in shelling out more cash for a couple of extras (which I didn't find all that spectacular; no feature length making of to be had on this disc) then skip it, but if you don't own the out of print MGM disc, want the extras, or (like me) are a completes, then pick this up, just don't expect an upgraded print.
  
  Hope this helps.
  
  Note: both DVD's where viewed on a 27" JVC higher end (but not progressive scan enhanced) tube TV with a year old model, Sony DVD player, with the TV colour, contrast, sharpness, etc., set up using the THX optimizer from the, "Cars", DVD.
  
  

• An exquisite reverie in Technicolor.

  
  By ABP6WKFZV7500 on 2008-03-16
  What is a fantasy? Our conscious dreams, subconscious wishes, or our ever-present quest for escapism? Our imaginations are absolutely essential to us in this hostile world so full of drama and indifference. Few films have ever been more capable of such emotional catharsis, the precedent setting masterpiece that is The Thief of Bagdad. This film has everything... kings, princesses, genies, sorcerers, flying carpets, and even a magical jewel guarded by a giant spider and octopus. Based on the legendary tale of Arabian Nights, this film is a one-of-a-kind Technicolor vision, an absolute orgy of the senses. An excellent film for children and adults alike, especially adults who are in touch with their inner child.
  
  Ahmad, the king of Bagdad, is tricked by his Grand Vizier, Jaffar, subsequently resulting in the kings imprisonment. While in prison, Ahmad meets Abu the thief. The two captives flee for their lives to the city of Basra, unknowingly entering an adventure of epic proportions. While in exile, Ahmad crosses paths with a beautiful princess, immediately falling in love with her. This proves to be the major catalyst in an already tumultuous relationship with Jaffar, since the Grand Vizier has traveled to Basra to win the princesses hand in marriage. After a confrontation with Jaffar, Ahmad and Abu are enchanted and then separated, resulting in the beginning of Abu's saga. While wondering alone, Abu finds an old bottle which upon opening releases a gigantic genie named Djinn. Now that Abu has three wishes and has came into possession of a magical jewel he commands Djinn to take him to Ahmad. Abu then uses his last wish to send the distraught Ahmad back to Bagdad so he can attempt to save the princess from Jaffar. Ahmad is immediately captured and sentenced to death which causes his friend Abu to steal a magic carpet and rush to his rescue, the classic battle of Good vs. Evil. The rest of the story shall remain unspoiled. . . I hope you enjoy it as much as I have over the years.
  
  
  
  **As of right now, Amazon does not have the supplemental features listed so I'll post those as well**. Special features, as listed by Criterion:
  
  - SPECIAL EDITION DOUBLE-DISC SET FEATURES:
  - New digital transfer, from restored film elements
  - Two audio commentaries: one featuring renowned directors Francis Ford Coppola and Martin Scorsese, and one with film and music historian Bruce Eder
  - Visual Effects,, a documentary about the technical achievements of The Thief of Bagdad
  - The Lion Has Wings (1940), Alexander Korda's propaganda film for the English war effort, created when The Thief of Bagdad went into production hiatus
  - Excerpts from codirector Michael Powell's audio dictations for his autobiography
  - Excerpts from a 1976 radio interview with composer Miklos Rózsa
  - Stills gallery featuring rare images of the film's production and photos shot in Dufaycolor Optional music and effects track
  - Theatrical trailer
  - PLUS: A booklet featuring new essays by film scholars Andrew Moor and Ian Christie
  
  1940
  106 minutes
  Color
  1.33:1
  Dolby Digital Mono 1.0
  Not Anamorphic
  English
  
  
  

• "I want to be a bandit, can't you understand it?"

  
  By A25ZVI6RH1KA5L on 2005-02-09
  What's that old saying? Too many cooks spoil the broth? In figurative terms it means if there are too many people working on a project, the result will be inferior...given the fact The Thief of Bagdad (1940) sports six directors, three credited, three uncredited, you'd think the film would be a mess, but it's actually the very opposite. The credited directors include Ludwig Berger (The Vagabond King), Michael Powell (Black Narcissus), and Tim Whelan (The Mad Doctor), while on the uncredited side there's three individuals, all whom share producing credits for the film in Alexander Korda (Storm Over the Nile), his brother Zoltan Korda (Jungle Book), and William Cameron Menzies (The Whip Hand). Starring in the film is Conrad Veidt (Casablanca), Sabu (Elephant Boy, Jungle Book), and John Justin (King of the Khyber Rifles). Also appearing is June Duprez (Little Tokyo, U.S.A.) and Rex Ingram (God's Little Acre) as the Genie, or Djinn,
  
  As the film begins, we're introduced to a blind beggar named Ahmad (Justin), and his very intelligent dog, both of whom are more than they appear. Ahmad soon relates a tale, and we learn of a man who was once king, and how he became friends with a clever young thief from the streets named Abu, played by Sabu (see what they did? The just removed the `S' from Sabu to get Abu...pretty smart, huh?). We also learn of the king's downfall at the hands of Jaffar (Veidt), a greedy, dastardly fellow with a penchant for magics and trickery. Seems Jaffar, once Grand Vizer (that means a highly regarded executive type who councils the king in many different matters) to the king, covet too much, and through some ruse, he managed to usurp (hence his new moniker of `The Usurper') the throne, and now desires the lovely princess, played by Duprez, daughter to a Sultan (played by Miles Malleson, one of the writers) of the nearby kingdom of Basra, who, incidentally, is smitten with the once king, and he her (their first encounter occurs in the `forbidden garden'...take the meaning whichever way you like)...the pair (the once king and Abu) embark on a number of dangerous adventures to regain king's throne, free the princess from the Jaffar's clutches, and return things to the natural order. Seems like a simple enough task, right? Well, keep in mind Jaffar is not only a scoundrel, but a magical scoundrel, and he has no intention of losing what he has worked so little for...actually, his plans appeared pretty complex, almost to the point of being convoluted, so it was obvious he had been planning it for awhile.
  
  The Thief of Bagdad (which won three academy awards, one for color cinematography, a second for color interior design, and a third for special effects) is one of those films that I wish I could have been their to see when it originally opened in the theaters, as I can't help but feel it must have been quite the awesome cinematic experience similar to the first time I saw Clash of the Titans (1981) in the theater (I was eleven at the time). In terms of fantasy films, very few can match the level of magic and whimsy of The Thief of Bagdad, although many have tried. The real key to the film's success, in my opinion, is that it is so well written, basically a fairytale come to life. Certainly the special effects helped propel this film, but without the core characterizations and well-crafted dialogue, the film wouldn't have been as popular. With regards to the acting, I thought all of the performers did very well, but given the strength of the material, it wouldn't have been too difficult for an experienced performer to come in and do as well, with a few exceptions, particularly in the characters of Abu, the genie (Ingram), and Jaffar. Sabu seemed a bit rough around the edges, but this was displaced by his infectious enthusiasm, which came through in nearly every scene he appeared. The genie, played by Harrison, is wonderful and comes through larger than life, exactly how you'd expect a genie to be (which makes me think Harrison's performance was what many other, later genie depictions were probably based on). Last, but not least, is the character of Jaffar, played perfectly by Veidt. This definitely was a case of finding the right actor for the part as Veidt creates what's probably one of the strongest characterizations of an on screen villain I seen in a long time. The only other one I can think of is Darth Vader, but the difference is in Vader's character, much of his menace comes through in the costume and effects, where with Jaffar, Veidt had to create his character from within, and does so almost too well (he even scared me a few times). As far as the special effects, some seem dated (keep in mind the film was made some 60+ years ago, and achieving effects on the level seen here was incredibly difficult) and obvious (the blue fringing of the Technicolor mattes often shows through), while others hold up quite well (the giant spider looked amazing and its' movements really made it appear to be alive). The sets, usually backed by lush and detailed matte paintings, are beautiful and befitting of the story, and the music, by Miklós Rózsa, is considered to be some of the finest ever made for a film. Generally I'm not big on characters within film breaking out in song, but it works here because it ties so well into the events on the screen.
  
  The full screen (original format) looks really good, despite a few minor flaws, and the audio comes through very well. I was surprised at a lack of features (there's a good looking trailer) for this particular film, given its' significance in terms of being one of the best fantasy films ever released, but better to have it than not at all I suppose.
  
  Cookieman108
  
  
  

• Criterion transfer no real improvement on MGM disc. Upgrade only for the extras.

  
  By A1WHDU7LN87PWY on 2008-05-29
  I see that there is some controversy here over whether the new Criterion transfer is an improvement on the 2002 MGM transfer or not. So I compared the MGM and Criterion DVD editions of this movie (which I love) on my 60-inch Hitachi HDTV today by syncing them up on two different DVD players and swapping the picture back and forth between them. I then switched the discs between the players and repeated the test. Other than a tiny sliver more picture information at the top and left on the Criterion disc, and a sliver more on the bottom of the MGM disc, they appear virtually identical. There is no significant difference that I can see in terms of color balance or saturation, brightness, contrast, shadow/highlight detail, or cleanliness of the prints. Criterion claims to have cleaned up "thousands" of instances of speckling and spotting, but the MGM print looks very clean to me, with little or no noticeable dirt or damage. In short, unless you really want the extras, or don't own the MGM edition, there is really no reason to upgrade as far as I can tell. Other than the digital cleanup that was supposedly done I can't understand how Criterion can claim that this version is "from restored film elements", other than to con potential buyers into buying a movie that they probably already own. I bought the Criterion release partly for the extras but was expecting a superior transfer based on their pre-release publicity, and now I feel just slightly ripped off considering the premium price they are charging for this set. The extras are nice to have but hardly merit charging double what the MGM DVD retailed for. Of course if you don't have the MGM edition (which is now out of print) then this is a worthy purchase, but as I would expect that most hardcore fans of this movie scooped up on the MGM disc as soon as it was released, this seems a little like double-dipping. At any rate, the bottom line is that anyone trying to tell you that either version is markedly superior in terms of picture quality hasn't done their homework. As anyone who knows anything about computer graphics will tell you, there are so many variables involved in displaying color on a monitor or on the Web that comparisons made by examining screen grabs on the Internet are all but worthless. As long as I'm on the subject, not all of Criterion's transfers are necessarily superior to those available from other DVD manufacturers. For instance, Image Entertainment's transfers of Warhol's Blood for Dracula and Flesh for Frankenstein blow the (out of print) Criterion editions off the map in every possible way. So don't assume that just because it says Criterion on the box you're getting a superior product.
  All in all, Thief of Bagdad is a personal favorite and one of the greatest adventure fantasies ever filmed. I'm only knocking one star off of what should be a five-star rating because of Criterion implying that you're getting a much improved transfer when you are not.
  
  

• One of the great fantasy film in cinema history

  
  By A16QODENBJVUI1 on 2002-10-03
  Few classic films demands or can benefit more from transfer to DVD than Alexander Korda's magnificent THE THIEF OF BAGDAD. At a time when British cinema lagged desperately behind Hollywood in technical proficiency, Korda was nothing short of a miracle worker. Although lacking the resources that Hollywood had to offer, Korda was able to produce a movie that stood up to the best of Hollywood in beauty, creativity, color, and fantasy. Two of the greatest fantasy films ever made appeared in 1939 and 1940: THE WIZARD OF OZ and THE THIEF OF BAGDAD.

  There are two reasons that THE THIEF OF BAGDAD is a great film and has stood the test of time. The first is the tremendous art direction. The movie is a function of Korda's vision. French auteur criticism holds that the "author" of a film is the director, but this is clearly an exception to that. Korda, the producer, was the creative force behind this film, and, in fact, employed as many as a half dozen directors during the course of making the film. One of the uncredited directors and one of the credited art directors was the great William Cameron Menzies, regarded as one of the giants in art design in film history. Even today, this is a gorgeous film to look at, and in an age when computers can create absolutely anything on the screen, it is delightful to watch a film in which others managed to achieve magic working with considerably less than we possess.

  The second reason that this film succeeds so marvelously is the cast. Ironically, the ostensible lead in the film is remarkably forgettable. But several of the other performances are quite unforgettable. Conrad Veidt is magnificently ominous and devious as Jaffar in what is probably one of his three most memorable roles (the others being his performance as the Somnambulist in the German Expressionist classic THE CABINENT OF DR. CALIGARI and his famous turn as Rick's nemesis Maj. Strasser in CASABLANCA). He is so fine in his role that it is hard to imagine anyone else being better. Sabu, who plays Abu, enjoyed one of the more unusual film careers in Hollywood history (to which he returned after returning from WW II as a highly decorated war hero), and this is possibly his finest film. But apart from Veidt, my favorite performer is the great Rex Ingram's memorable performance as the genie. In an era in which it was virtually impossible to have a film career as an African-American while refusing to compromise one's dignity by playing subservient roles, Rex Ingram was perhaps the great exception. While other black actors forged careers playing servants and red caps and cooks and various other undignified roles, Ingram always managed to stand out as a proud, self-respectful individual. After Paul Robeson and before Sidney Portier, Ingram was perhaps the finest black actor in Hollywood. He managed always in his films to project great intelligence, pride, and self-possession. In many roles, he was more than a little imposing, and that comes out in his portrayal as the Genie. Yes, Abu outwits him and extracts a promise for three wishes, but he clearly is not a safe, tame genie. Even while doing Abu's bidding, he radiates danger. Had Ingram's career spanned the decades at the end of the 20th century instead of those in the middle, he would have been recognized as a truly massive talent. Today he would have been a major star, something that simply wasn't possible in 1940.

  This is a must-see film for anyone who loves great cinematic fantasy, adventure, or British film. It is also one of those rare films that can be enjoyed as much by small children as by adults.
  
  

• Disappointing transfer - VASTLY inferior to MGM's!!
  By A2RDVQB8632HUP on 2008-05-14
  I have viewed the MGM DVD, and its colors are bold and breathtakingly vibrant. The image is sharp and the 3-strip Technicolor registration excellent - no "bleeding" whatsoever. I've just seen the Criterion screencaps at the DVD Beaver site, and they are a MAJOR letdown!! The webmaster calls the hues "delicate and muted" - but that is NOT how Technicolor should look like - the colors should LEAP off the screen(bordering on being oversaturated) and be bigger than life! ESPECIALLY in an adventure epic like this! Needless to say I canceled my order for Criterion's release today - what a waste of a golden opportunity! I suspect they were too eager in cleaning up the image digitally. Shame on you, Criterion! Buy the MGM edition, by all means. Thanks for your attention.
  
  
• Best fantasy film ever made
  By A2EOE85SDD3ULP on 2001-08-25
  So good it was even recognized by Hollywood. It won two Academy Awards (for color cinematography and costumes, I believe). Notable for many reasons. As mentioned by another reviewer, for the highly notable performance by Adelaide Hall as well as that of another underutilized black performer, the great Rex Ingram (not the silent film director). Ingram gives us the best genie ever, one whose cries of "Free, free!" when he is finally released from bondage carry an especial poignance consider the social situation in the U.S. the time the film was made. We also get the best evil sorcerer ever in Conrad Veidt's Jafar, who can have anything he wants except the love of the beautiful princess...whose father the Sultan is charmingly portrayed by Miles Malleson, who also wrote the erudite and delightful script. Throw in the best flying horse this side of CG, a spectacular mountain temple, a believable flying carpet, a necro-erotic statue, and one of the Miklos Rosza's best scores, and you have the Arabian Nights made real. No one should miss Sabu's naturalistic performance as Abu, the little thief. Note Conrad Veidt's makeup, that included gold dust to highlight his features. A film for the ages, and for all ages (and where, oh where, is the DVD? Please to strike it from the surviving 35mm original in the British Film Archive....)
  
  
• The magic still sparkles
  By A3NM1MT3Q2FHXV on 2005-06-27
  The Thief of Bagdad was made in 1940 and was very likely a special effects triumph for that era. In our era when computer-generated special effects are cheap, relatively easy and common, one has to be able to overlook the transparency of the fakery in this movie in order to fully appreciate it. If you can do that, you're in for a treat.
  
  The movie is about magic and myth but it's also a story of friendship, love, and self-sacrifice. The loftier elements are layered into the mystical elements so well that the viewer might fail notice them but they form a strong backbone for the more whimsical elements of the movie.
  
  The basic story is that of a little thief and a prince whose throne was stolen. When the prince is treated as a begger, he goes from being the most powerful man in his kingdom to unable to survive without the help of the little thief. The adventures they experience make up the lion's share of the movie.
  
  There is charm in the way in which older movies unselfconsciously embrace dialog that could only be delivered with a smirk or a wink in modern movies. When characters speak of love, they do so in terms of flawless and true love. When they speak of hope and friendship, they do so with almost childlike confidence in the validity of the truest and purest forms of such concepts. I truly enjoy this about older movies but the more jaded viewer may find it a bit too much to accept.
  
  I would give this movie 5 stars but I believe the portrayal of the prince as a lovesick puppy was a bit overdone at times (though it didn't really impede my enjoyment of the movie) and rather a bit too much singing was done at times. This is a lovely movie for families with children or for fans of classic movies. It's quite genuine and not the least bit cheesy.
  
  
• Adelaide Hall
  By A36XONEY7J24JN on 2001-05-04
  Not only is the 'THIEF OF BAGDAD' an exceptionally well crafted (considering the technology available in 1940) and considerate adaptation of the book, it features a rare movie appearance of the American Jazz legend Adelaide Hall. If you know little about this wonderful Lady, allow me to enlighten you a little on her career. Alexander Korda, personally requested Adelaide's appearance after witnessing a concert performance given by her at the Kilburn State Theatre in London, at which the audience near rioted with enthusiasm over her. Considering Adelaide's remarkable and ground breaking achievements in the Jazz World (Recordings and performances), Variety, Vaudeville, Music-Hall, etc. the film offers the viewer a rare glimpse at a talent that is sadly overlooked in the history of popular entertainment. During Adelaide's early career in America 1921 - 1935 she reached the pinnacle of the show-biz ladder to become the first black international superstar (Ethel Waters, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald all followed in her footsteps and Josephine Baker was only a star in Europe. Florence Mills sadly never made recordings so her appeal was only felt in the theatre.)With the release of the recording 'Creole Love Call' in 1927 Adelaide's fame shot around the glode. Her starring role on Broadway in 'Blackbirds of 1928' during which she released 'I Must Have That Man' and made 'I Can't Give You Anything but Love' and 'Diga Diga Do' into household standards, took her career higher than any other black artist had ever gone. She fought racism, created a vocal style (Scat), on Broadway - with the hugely talented dancer Bojangles - created the only black competition to Fred and Adele Astaire, starred at Broadway's Palace theatre 7 times within 2 years (a record never beaten for a black artist),etc, etc. Her achievements in the world of entertainment were ground-breaking but more importantly she was a crusader for black-equality and opened the doors for the future generation of black entertainers. Sadly, her film appearances are rare so her performance in 'The Thief of Bagdad'is a real gem and one that clearly displays her remarkable talent (all be it in an unusual setting - a rose garden). Without taking any credit away from the director and the films wonderful stars especially Sabu, if only to capture a little bit of entertainment history the film is worth watching for Adelaide's performance alone. A truly important film both Historically and professionally and well worth buying for your archive ***** kind regards Iain Cameron Williams.
  
  
• WHY BUY THE CRITERION VERSION? THE SOUND!
  By A1EAN2SFKYBJ05 on 2008-05-31
  It's true that both the Criterion and MGM releases of "The Thief of Bagdad" come from the BFI (British Film Institude) restoration and that the Technicolor look is well served on both discs, but there is at least one major reason to up grade to the Criterion release and that is the SOUND! Miklos Rozsa's score for this film is one of the greatest of all-time, but it was a challenge to capture his score within the limits of the sound recording means available at the time. The MGM release has a much lower recording level than the Criterion. One need only play the opening title music of both discs to hear the differences between the two discs. The MGM track distorts much more so than the Criterion. The Criterion release handles the sound track far better. The Criterion picture has been done at a higher bit rate and futher cleaned-up. It also offers the ability to play the film with an opitional music and sounds track only. Both commentary tracks are jewels and the second disc with its extras is outstanding. I have two copies of the MGM release, but I am delighted for the improved Criterion release. Now one can only hope that Criterion will see fit to release this gem on Blu-Ray!
  
  
• A masterpiece to been seen by all generations
  By ADQ35EYK5T2FE on 2003-04-05
  "The Thief of Baghdad" is a masterpiece and should be seen by the present and future generations. It is a movie complete and all its aspects. I was 10 when I first saw "The Thief of Baghdad" and since then I could never forget the moments of enchantment it brought to me everytime (more than 10 times)I went to the movies to see it on the big screen. It was and still is my fantasy favorite movie. In the Middle 60's I finally found a copy in 16mm at a distributor and had to rent a projector to show the film at home. Although the copy was in very bad conditions I could even so, be able to go back to the days of my childhood while enjoying this wondereful film.
  Recently I púrchased a VHS copy at Amazon[.com] and virtually "obliged" my 18 year-old daughter to watch it. It was a prize to have the film with me at all times. The new edition in DVD is perfect and reveals all the splendor the film brings.
  
  
• Greatest golden age fantasy still well worth owning
  By A2D4KYA86MLHM5 on 2004-02-23
  This masterpiece, often referred to as the greatest fantasy movie ever, still holds up well over 60 years later. The Thief of Bagad has a terrific story with enchanting magic, enticing romance and terrific suspense. The acting is absolutely superb with fine performances turned in by Sabu the little thief, Rex Ingram as the powerful and scary genie, and Conrad Veidt who as the evil Vizier Jaffar is one of the best villians ever. John Justin, the blinded Caliph and his beloved princess (June Deprez) provide an engaging and often tragic romance that lends terrific depth to this story.

  Best yet is the awesome imagination brought to life in this masterpiece epic. While some of the effects show their age (The spider, for instance), others, such as the flying mechanical horse and the magical carpet are still captivating. The immense attention to detail is evident in the palaces, the ships and the sultan's toy collection. Miklos Rosza's musical score along with this movie's wonderful cinematography recreates the legendary time of the Arabian Nights.

  For my one complaint, while this movie clearly rates 5 stars, I'm knocking my review down to 4 stars due to the lack of DVD extras. When compared to spectacular golden age DVDs like Robin Hood, one begins wish all were made this way. Children from 8-13 (as well as adults) will still find joy in this delightful picture.
  
  

• The Thief of Bagdad.
  By A4735BUOXC8C7 on 2005-10-06
  Absolutely outstanding cinematography with Sabu at age 15 a most believable and likeable character. We invited our grandchildren over to see it (ages 12 & 15) and they were entranced from beginning to end. Two generations before the digital age of filmmaking, a crew of geniuses put together a fanciful film of the highest quality. I would highly recommend it to anyone with even the slightest sense of childhood fantasy in his/her blood/heart!
  
  
• Thief of Bagdad
  By A3CXL5A3EFESFJ on 2000-07-05
  This is one of the best films that I saw in my childhood. Later on while years past I had the chance to watch it again with my wife and three children and they really enjoyed a lot. It is amazing how back in 1940 they did all the FX near to perfection in this movie in full colors which fortunately were restored and improved in the video release. And the story is a copntinously captivating one without leaks. I am sure that everyone, adult or child will be amused after watching this vertion of THIEF. I think there were made three even four more good enough vertions of the same title but this one is definetely the best. I even recommend its release on DVD.
  
  
• I Want To Be a Sailor, Too!
  By A2FAMG3FICBKSW on 2002-11-08
  If there's a more entrancing live-action fantasy film made before "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" than this one, I haven't seen it. Arriving on American screens the same year as Walt Disney's equally peerless "Pinocchio," Korda's ravishing movie is non pariel. Stunning color cinematography; astonishing sets; the first - and in some ways, finest - film score by Miklos Rozsa; the great Conrad Veidt as a villain so archetypal that the folks at Disney "borrored" him for "Aladdin"; Rex Ingram as a deliciously devious djinn who utters what may be the most stirring cry of the pre-Civil Rights era ("Free! Freeeeee!"); John Justin and June Perez, a dream-team of thoroughly embracable lovers; that charming rotter Miles Malleson - who also worked on the screenplay - as the emotionally retarded rajah with a yen for exotic toys; a canine actor so good Pauline Kael observed that he becomes "the essence of Sabu"; and, best of all, the delightful - and amazingly beautiful - Sabu himself, emobodying all childish dreams of careless liberty. Flying carpets, wise old Muslims, an ancient and supernally gentle spirit, a terrifying battle with a giant spider, and a Persian market so cunningly recreated you can almost smell the honey Sabu slathers on his pancake. If I ever become so jaded I don't find tears in my eyes at the mischevious smile on the ancient face of the old mountain spirit as he discreetly observes Sabu's heartfelt disobeyance, I'll know I've been alive too long.
  
  
• FORGOTTEN FANTASY
  By A3S1YIQQW7AZO on 2002-12-24
  While I'm waiting for the crowds of people to see "The Two Towers" to die down, I happened to come across this movie at the video rental store.

  A childhood favorite.

  If they had a list of the top five fantasy films, "The Thief of Bagdad" would HAVE to be up there. I would feel pained if it weren't.

  The movie is about Prince Ahmed and his quest for the Princess that he loves. But in his way is the evil Jaffar, a man of power and also a sorcerer.

  But Prince Ahmed has a friend, Abu, that helps him get out of prison and promises to help him find his Princess. However, Jaffar casts two spells on the pair. One blinds Prince Ahmed. The other turns Abu into a dog. That's all I'll say concerning the plot. The plot starts in the present and goes back to flashback scenes, finally catching up to the present and then moving on.

  This is one of those movies that proves you don't need lots of special effects to make it good. The magic carpet is believable (notice how it casts a shadow on everything as it flies around). The genie looks a little fake at times, but this was made in 1940, too. Some of the backgrounds are obviously painted or little more than models.

  Despite all this, the actors (and the dog, don't forget the dog) give 100% performances, creating characters that are immediately likable. The storyline, too, is so fresh and original that it's nearly impossible to not enjoy watching, wondering what will happen next.

  In an age where special effects often take center stage it's nice to see a movie whose soul is in its charm.
  
  

• A Gem of a movie
  By A9RNMO9MUSMTJ on 2005-08-05
  Movies are made to entertain, but some of them magically become
  more than entertainment, the characters, the story, the music the
  effects all combined make their mark one one's mind and as the years
  pass by, and these treasures re-appear they make up one heck of a
  natural high. This is one of these movies. Good 40 years ago, and
  good forty years after. Im glad that the dvd is of good quality, but
  even if it was crappy, this movie still pulls all my strings.
  Sit down, relax, and enjoy a viewing of one of the great films
  available out there.
  
  
• Almost as good as MGM
  By AFU1PPMKAAB2C on 2008-05-25
  I own the MGM edition of The Thief of Bagdad and was very happy with it for years, except that the sound level is very low, weakening the impact of the moving scene at the pool with it's lovely music. I was able to view the Criterion version yesterday, and in my opinion it it is almost as good as the MGM. Unlike the MGM it has a lot of extras and two commentaries, and the Criterion's sound is better than the MGM. However, I find the colors in the MGM to be better, giving the faces, for instance June Duprez', a much fresher look. In both editions, there are missing frames in several places. I would be happy with either version of the film, but because of the weaker, more brownish colors, I pass on buying the Criterion and stay content with my MGM.
  
  
• Astonishing DVD clarity.
  By A136JDGVT7LQXE on 2002-12-10
  I have been a huge fan of "The Thief of Bagdad" since childhood. I used to watch it with my mother and grandmother when I was a little girl. It's a family favorite. So when it came out in DVD, I had to have it. I'm so glad I got it. The sound and picture clarity are awesome. This is why DVDs were invented. I was amazed at the vibrancy, the beauty and the depth of the colors. Remember, this movie was made in 1940 and filmed in Technicolor when most movies at that time were filmed in black and white. Watching it on DVD is like watching this movie for the first time. I am glad people are taking the time to restore these old, well loved classic movies, especially if it's one of my favorite movies.
  
  
• One of the Classic Fantasies and a Triumph of Technicolor
  By AEFD69CM2AWLH on 2001-09-06
  I have always been charmed by this fantasy adventure. To me,it beats Oz for color,dash, and imagination, and maybe equals it for music when you consider Miklos Rozsa's score at his height of power. Was there ever a princess as lovely as June Duprez, or a magician as cunningly evil as Conrad Veidt ( the bad Major Strasser in Casablanca.) (The color alone deserves a special DVD edition.) This was Korda freres at their best.Current packaging with Man Who Could Work Miracles pairs it with another charming if not as memorable fantasy from the UK. Both of these deserve the DVD treatment, with restoration to full splendor. Is someone at the MGM home video reading this?.
  
  
• Knock-your-eyes-out splendour
  By on 2003-01-01
  I've been waiting for this 5-star film to come out on DVD ever since I first owned a dvd player - and boy, was it worth the wait! The colour is stupendous and knocks all the video & tv-aired versions into the deep hole where they belong.

  This is fantasy filmmaking at its peak: the plot & script, the cast, the settings and production values. It seems unbelievable that it was made 60 years ago! My hat (if I wore one) is off to Mr Korda for producing this splendid movie, and to MGM for giving us such a glorious DVD transfer.
  
  

• I love this movie
  By A2ZC5WQAV2VXNH on 2000-09-04
  This is one of the first movies I remember watching when I was little, and it remains one of the best. The images will stay with you for a long time. I hope everyone will give this movie a try!
  
  
• Delightful Fantasy
  By A1GHUN5HXMHZ89 on 2002-12-09
  This movie will especially appeal to children and those that like classic fantasy movies like "The 7th Voyage of Sinbad". The effects may not be up to present day standards with the flying Genie looking like a Mr. T doll with a ponytail, but overall it is still very entertaining for the whole family. It has many things to make it fun with a Prince, a young delightful thief "Sabu", a princess, an evil magician, Genie, giant spider, octopus, cannibals, and a flying carpet and horse. I bought this on DVD after not seeing it for several years and I am glad I got it. They did an excellent job of transferring it and the color and sound are great.
  
  
• Magical
  By AM29HOVEWIABM on 2006-01-31
  The quality of the print is unbelievable. There must have been considerable effort put into restoring the film. The colors are vivid and the pictures are very sharp. Excellent family entertainment... for the kids and the kid in all of us
  
  
• The Thief of Bagdad - Criterion Collection - Good!
  By AJQG1NUK01SV4 on 2008-05-28
  I had to get this the day it came out - I already own the MGM disc but when I heard that Criterion was releasing a version....
  I wasn't disappointed! Criterion has loaded these discs with tons'o'goodies (I won't list them here as they are listed on this page by another helpful reviewer and Amazon). The picture is great, the sound is great considering it's a mono track from 1940. There are a few jumps and skips but they are from missing film cells, not the DVD (I checked against my other disc). And as for those who have reviewed this disc and freaked out about the colors...
  
  They are exactly the same.
  
  No, seriously. I took screen captures at multiple points in the film from both the MGM and Criterion discs on my DVD player, and the color difference is if not exactly the same, imperceptible to the human eye. My eyes anyway... or my monitor.
  
  But to the movie itself! I am guessing that if you are reading this you already know about this cinematic masterpiece but if not then read on! I won't summarize the plot as it has already been summarized on this page, but I will say that this is one of the greatest if not THE greatest fantasy films of all time. The Thief of Bagdad grips you, nay gets you in a chokehold with a sense of wonder from the word go and doesn't let go until the very end when you'll be be hitting the play button frantically so it can do it to you all over again. While you watch this you won't CARE if the acting is a little stilted in places or the effects crude by today's standards (in fact, the old SFX add to the charm!). The actors play their parts well. John Justin is adequate but not stellar (but I'll cut the dude some slack since this was his first movie). Conrad Veidt is a master villain, the inspiration for Darth Vader ("It is your... destiny...."). Sabu is awesome. June Duprez is lovely. Rex Ingram is Rex Ingram. It took at least six directors to make this puppy, but they managed to slap together the greatest Arabian Nights fantasy movie ever made. The only films in the genre that come close are the original Thief of Bagdad (1924) and the 7th Voyage of Sinbad (1958). The Golden Voyage of Sinbad from 1974 trails slightly behind.
  
  Summarization: I love this movie. This Criterion version is excellent - like the previous MGM version, but with more Thief of Bagdady goodness! Highly Recommended.
  
  
• Thief of Bagdad
  By on 2000-06-26
  Korda's Four Feathers was, I think, the first British technicolor film, filmed in the Sudan where I lived for 3 years. His Sinbad film moved from the Lawrence of Arabia mode to imagination and fantasy. How amazing that two incredibly great films, one semi-documentary, the other fantasy, should come out before WWII and that later he zithered his way into The Third Man. All three great films worth viewing.
  
  
• A Dream
  By A1G6X1YXA9LIMA on 2003-03-14
  Superb remake of Douglas Fairbanks silent classic; with Sabu as the charming little thief, helping a blinded caliph (John Justin), victim of evil Jaffar (Conrad Veidt), to recover her position and her sweetheart (June Duprez), setting for just amazing adventures.

  Filled with wild ideas (the menacing shadow of Jaffar, the blue rose, the horse-toy, the sculpture of many hands, the giant spider, the laughing Genius), and a very, very beautiful color photography (June Duprez is beautiful and John Justin's eyes sparkle with intensity), this film is a certainly unspeakable dazzle for me.
  
  

• Brilliant Fantasy Adventure!!!
  By A6ADO7B6FUVN on 2003-04-21
  A blinded beggar, Ahmad, with his wise dog, is begging for food and coins in the harbor of a distant city. The Grand Vizier Jaffar requests that the beggar should be brought to the palace to help his beloved Princess wake up from a deep trance like sleep, since legends tell him that only a blind man can awaken the princess. During the blind man's visit, he tells the story of his life and how he once was the King of Bagdad and his dog was a thief named Abu. The story also reveals that he was blinded by the evil Vizier Jaffar and how he fell in love with the Princess. Thief of Bagdad is a captivating fantasy tale with magical items, dubious creatures, and enchanting adventures of a long lost king. The wide variety of creatures, items, and adventures is delicately balanced with a well written story, precise cinematography, and special effects that do not ruin the story despite the age of the film. The experience that is provided through this cinematic event is a magical story that offers both entertainment as well as contemplation, which is useful for young and old.
  
  
• An excellent masterpiece the whole family will love
  By AI0OAQ6E2O8VF on 2008-06-12
  This review is for the Criterion Collection DVD edition of the film. Other editions are not as good.
  
  The Thief of Bagdad, based on the Book of One Thousand Nights (better known as The Arabian Nights) is a film that is incredible. The special effects that were very good for the time the film was made and it was filmed in color too. The film won 3 Academy Awards including special effects and was nominated for another. The 300 foot tall genie played by Rex Ingram which is one of the best effects of the film. The film's score by Miklós Rózsa was nominated but lost.
  
  Since the story is so well known I don't feel a plot summary is necessary.
  
  This is a two disc set and has excellent special features inclding a British World War II propaganda film.
  
  Disc one contains the film with two optional audio commentaries and even an isolated music and effects track. The first commentary is by Francis Ford Coppola and Martin Scorsese and the other is by Bruce Eder. Also on disc one is a theatrical trailer.
  
  Disc two contains a documentary about the film's special effects including the innovative use of a bluescreen and has interviews with various special effects artists including Dennis Muren archival radio interview with Miklós Rózsa, audio dictations for co-director Michael Powell's autobiography, never before seen behind the scenes photographs, and "The Lion Has Wings" a 1940 British war propaganda film. This is a great film which documents the manufacture of military airplanes.
  
  
  Overall, this is a great film all ages will enjoy.
  
  
• it was filmed in 1940
  By on 2001-08-06
  oh love it! I watched this movie when I was a child, Sabu was a great actor in this film he was handsome and intelligent. 1001 night arabian adventure version was produced in the 2nd world war. Im sure u will like it
  
  

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