![Secret of the Grain (The Criterion Collection) [DVD]](/i/0mt8ut0XU8ODwz8FwYcpq7jR1KEIGuL7IADKficcVPgXr8G4FCYhPKD60I4xGntaU63EjYF-Ng1mLfFwydfD58DJOk39kJYHhFLDSqJpi-KbZm2JcOYU.jpg)
1 / 3Secret of the Grain (The Criterion Collection) [DVD]
Secret of the Grain is a French-language Criterion Collection drama about a family navigating work, relationships, and a plan to open a restaurant. This one-disc DVD is listed with English subtitles and has a 2-hour-34-minute runtime.
At a glance
- A family drama centered on a former dockworker's plan to open a restaurant serving fish couscous.
- French-language presentation listed with English subtitles and Arabic dubbing.
- Criterion Collection DVD with widescreen format and Dolby audio listed.
Pros and cons
Pros
- English subtitles are listed for the French-language film.
- The DVD's long runtime allows for the extended family scenes described in the listing.
Cons
- At 2 hours and 34 minutes, this is a substantial watch and may not suit viewers seeking a short film.
Technical specifications
15 specifications| Format | Color, Dolby, Dubbed, Multiple Formats, NTSC, Subtitled, Widescreen |
|---|---|
| Number of discs | 1 |
| Dimensions listed | 0.7 x 7.5 x 5.4 inches; 4.64 ounces |
| Genre | Drama |
|---|---|
| Runtime | 2 hours and 34 minutes |
| Language | French |
| Dubbed | Arabic |
| Subtitles | English |
| Rating | NR (Not Rated) |
| Release date | July 27, 2010 |
| Director | Abdellatif Kechiche |
|---|---|
| Contributors | Abdellatif Kechiche, Habib Boufares |
| Actor listed | Habib Boufares |
| Studio | Criterion Collection |
| Item model number | 7469646 |
What to know before buying
- The listing describes a talk-heavy, observational drama that builds toward a suspenseful climax, so viewers expecting brisk action may find its pacing deliberate.
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Viewers interested in French-language family dramas and contemporary immigrant experience.
- Criterion Collection viewers looking for a character-focused film with English subtitles.
Less suited to
- Viewers seeking a short, fast-paced film or a plot driven mainly by action.
![Secret of the Grain (The Criterion Collection) [DVD] · photo 2](/i/d3q9ZxjBgBhdE7nTGqKNi9Wx44kx7UkGOQU-WuEX3kbRPYLw_tJzFu8C7wDwO36QYj4e27H0wHsP7RwAxU634aqJLjrfdIJ1yIqsxrQMPvQg7sjqBT8L.jpg)
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
66% 66% - 4 stars
7% 7% - 3 stars
6% 6% - 2 stars
5% 5% - 1 star
16% 16%
Customer feedback describes the film as a favorite among foreign films and highlights perceived quality, while reactions to the ending are mixed, with some describing it as abrupt. That response may matter to viewers drawn to the listing's long, character-focused family drama, especially if they prefer a more conclusive finish. Aggregate ratings lean positive overall but also include a notable one-star share, so they do not indicate uniform satisfaction.
Positive themes
- Customers describe it as a favorite foreign film and mention quality positively.
Mixed feedback
- The ending receives mixed reactions, with some customers finding it abrupt.
Frequently asked questions
What language and subtitle options are listed?
The disc is listed as French-language, with English subtitles and Arabic dubbing.
How long is the film?
The listed runtime is 2 hours and 34 minutes.
What is the film about?
It follows a French-Arab family and patriarch Slimane's effort to turn a ship into a restaurant serving his ex-wife's fish couscous.
Is this a Blu-ray?
No. The supplied title identifies this edition as a DVD.
![Secret of the Grain (The Criterion Collection) [DVD] · photo 3](/i/6G2Fc5q3FZ_6jrAPkqM9EXOMgFdiEWrc8C3PQLkO7laa2WkILwMFty4xRG6WpWwNGJSXuS4Of_sd6At3vYZK6_c63JwvKbcF2wD1khc_smFeAN12qoNU.jpg)
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