The range of DVDs on store shelves is staggering, but the best sets in 2006, as usual, were relatively simple to decide: the best films that looked the best, with the best transfers and best special features. Or, in the case of two documentaries, an important message to tell.
BEST OF 2006
1. “The Seven Samurai,” Criterion: The latest release of the Akira Kurosawa masterpiece is on three discs with enough supplements to keep you busy until next year.
2. “An Inconvenient Truth,” Paramount: Al Gore’s doc (right) is required viewing for anyone even the least bit curious about the state of our planet, skeptics included.
3. “The Complete Mr. Arkadin,” Criterion: One of Orson Welles’ “lost” films has been restored as multiple versions so fans can study his unfocused but still formidable talents.
4. “The Office–The Complete Second Season,” Universal: The set underscored the brilliance of the U.S. version of “The Office” and is packed with hilarious goodies.
5. “The Double Life of Veronique,” Criterion: The last major film from Polish filmmaker Krzysztof Kieslowski to get released on DVD in the U.S. could not look more radiant.
6. “Chuck Berry: Hail! Hail! Rock ‘n’ Roll,” Image: Four discs of the rock ‘n’ roll legend’s memorable tribute concert and ego trip.
7. “When the Levees Broke: A Requiem in Four Acts,” HBO: Spike Lee’s shocking New Orleans doc will tick you off with images the government would no doubt like you to forget.
8. “Pandora’s Box,” Criterion: A silent classic, the film is driven by the trademark haircut and flirtatious stare of star Louise Brooks.
9. “A History of Violence,” New Line: David Cronenberg’s subversive take on Americana gets forceful analysis from the filmmaker and much of the cast and crew.
10. “Dazed and Confused,” Criterion: A Richard Linklater trifle, to be sure, but the DVD set and its presentation are a blast.
