A Matter of Life and Death: The Criterion Collection DVD

A Matter of Life and Death from The Criterion Collection is a two-disc NTSC DVD release of Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger’s 1-hour-and-44-minute film. It suits viewers seeking this romantic fantasy-drama on DVD, with English audio and subtitles listed.

At a glance

Romantic fantasy-drama about an RAF pilot who survives a plane fire and faces a dispute with the afterlife over his continued life on earth.
The supplied description highlights Technicolor scenes in England alongside a black-and-white modernist afterlife setting.
Directed by Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger, with David Niven and Kim Hunter listed among the actors.

Price

$14.98Save 50%

Reference price: ~~$29.95~~

Price checked: Nov 12, 2026

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Pros and cons

Pros

Two discs are listed for the feature, providing a multi-disc edition in DVD format.
English language and English subtitles are both specified.
The listed 1-hour-and-44-minute runtime gives a concise feature-length viewing option.

Technical specifications

12 specifications

Disc and playback details
Format	NTSC
Number of discs	2
Language	English
Runtime	1 hour and 44 minutes
Color	Color
MPAA rating	PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)

Film credits
Director	Michael Powell;Emeric Pressburger
Actors	Kim Hunter;David Niven
Contributors	Kim Hunter;David Niven, Michael Powell;Emeric Pressburger

Release and physical details
Release date	July 24, 2018
Studio	Criterion Collection
Dimensions and weight	0.7 x 7.5 x 5.4 inches; 2.72 ounces

What to know before buying

This is the DVD edition, not a Blu-ray release. The supplied customer feedback includes mixed comments about disc image quality, including concern about the DVD, so buyers prioritizing picture presentation should consider that uncertainty.

Who is it for?

A good fit for

Viewers looking for A Matter of Life and Death on a two-disc Criterion Collection DVD.
Fans of David Niven, Kim Hunter, or films directed by Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger.
Collectors interested in a romantic fantasy-drama with both Technicolor and black-and-white imagery.

Less suited to

Buyers specifically seeking a Blu-ray or a higher-definition format.
Viewers who need confirmed technical details about restoration, bonus features, or the contents of each disc, which are not specified here.

A Matter of Life and Death: The Criterion Collection DVD · photo 2 — Additional product photo 2

Customer reviews on Amazon

4.7 / 5 · 385 ratings

5 stars82%82%
4 stars10%10%
3 stars4%4%
2 stars3%3%
1 star1%1%

Customer feedback is broadly favorable about the film itself, especially its cinematography and acting, with David Niven singled out. Some feedback also describes it as visually impressive and emotionally uplifting. Image-quality experiences are mixed, including criticism directed at the DVD, which matters most to buyers choosing this format for a remastered presentation. The listing confirms a DVD edition but does not specify restoration details.

Positive themes

Customers praise the cinematography, acting, and David Niven’s performance.
Some customers describe the film as visually striking and emotionally uplifting.