Eric Rohmer's Tales of the Four Seasons (The Criterion Collection) (A Tale of Springtime/A Tale of Winter/A Tale of Summer/A Tale of Autumn) (Blu-ray) R

Eric Rohmer's "Tales of the Four Seasons" is a cinematic journey through the vicissitudes of love, set against the picturesque backdrop of France. This collection of four films stands as a testament to Rohmer's keen insight into the nuances of romantic relationships, marking a continuation of his exploration of human emotions that began with his earlier series, "Six Moral Tales" and "Comedies and Proverbs." Each film in the quartet masterfully balances humor with philosophical depth, portraying the perennial complexities of love, longing, and the miscommunications that often complicate human connections. From the light-hearted to the melancholic, these stories delve into the heart's enduring follies, capturing the eternal dance of attraction and repulsion that defines our most intimate relationships.

The Four-Blu-ray Special Edition of this series is a treasure trove for cinephiles, featuring new 2K digital restorations with contributions from cinematographer Diane Baratier and Rohmer's son, Laurent Schérer. It includes an array of special features such as a new interview program filmed at Rohmer's residence, segments of radio interviews with Rohmer, and a documentary on the making of "A Tale of Summer." Additionally, the edition offers two of Rohmer's short films and a variety of other extras, including new English subtitle translations and an insightful essay by film critic Imogen Sara Smith. Each film within the series, from "A Tale of Springtime's" exploration of budding friendships and romantic entanglements to "A Tale of Autumn's" comedic look at matchmaking and misinterpretation, showcases Rohmer's signature style of subtle storytelling, making "Tales of the Four Seasons" a compelling anthology of the human heart.