Last week, the 1958 classic A Night to Remember was released on Blu-ray & DVD as part of the Criterion Collection.  Directed by Roy Ward Baker, this is a meticulous dramatization of the Titanic’s journey, from its celebratory launch to the fateful night on April 14th, 1912 when the “unsinkable” ship tragically struck an iceberg.

With James Cameron’s Oscar-winning 1997 epic Titanic being released in 3D theatres tomorrow and the 100th anniversary of the tragic sinking of the ship coming later this month, A Night to Remember comes very highly recommended.  With a huge cast and a story that taps into both the humanity and ultimate tragedy of the entire journey of the Titanic, this is a complete package of classic filmmaking.

The Blu-ray includes commentary with the author and illustrator of the book Titanic: An Illustrated History, a Swedish documentary about Titanic survivors and a BBC one on the iceberg that sank the ship, an hour long look at the making of A Night to Remember as well as an archival interview with survivor Eva Hart.  Also included in the package is a wonderful booklet featuring archival photos and an essay by film critic Michael Sragow.

A Night to Remember is 123 minutes and unrated.

-John C.