As a film enthusiast who has spent countless hours immersed in the silver screen, I must say that these trilogies are truly a testament to the power of cinema. Marcel Pagnol’s Marseille Trilogy is a timeless tale of love and friendship, beautifully portraying the struggles and triumphs of human relationships. The films are like a window into another era, transporting us to the vibrant streets of Marseille in the 1930s.
On The Criterion Channel, a streaming service by The Criterion Collection, you can find some highly demanded box sets. In the world of cinema, a trilogy refers to a set of three movies that share either a narrative or thematic continuity and often inhabit the same fictional realm. The Criterion Channel houses several distinctive trilogies in film, including ones that challenge traditional notions of what a trilogy should encompass.
A trilogy can be an exciting experience for those interested in character development or are interested in certain topics or genres, as well as works by a specific director. The films in this selection are especially diverse, containing a multitude of kinds of trilogies as well as genres. From avant-garde dramas to action-packed thrillers, here are 15 trilogies you can stream on the Criterion Channel.
15 Infernal Affairs Trilogy
Andrew Lau and Alan Mak’s “Infernal Affairs” features Tony Leung Chiu-wai and Andy Lau Tak-wah playing opposing undercover cops in this gripping crime-drama series. The initial installment debuted in 2002, while the sequels followed suit in 2003.
As a cinephile, I recently found myself immersed in the gripping trilogy known as “Infernal Affairs.” In this review, I’ll share my thoughts on each installment from a first-person perspective.
A Riveting Neo-Noir
The initial movie was an enormous hit, but Scorcese’s remake, “The Departed” (2006), might have outshone it. Nevertheless, the Infernal Affairs trilogy is essential viewing for action film enthusiasts due to its exceptional emotional depth and visual brilliance. Although the second and third parts of the trilogy didn’t garner as much critical or commercial acclaim as the first one, they are highly recommended for those who appreciate well-crafted backstories and character development.
14 Krzysztof Kieslowski’s Three Colors Trilogy
Blue, White, and Red, which mirror the colors of the French flag and represent freedom, equality, and brotherhood respectively. Blue features Juliette Binoche as Julie, a woman dealing with grief following her husband and son’s death in a car accident. White focuses on Karol Karol (played by Zbigniew Zamachowski), a Polish immigrant returning to his homeland after his wife, Dominque (portrayed by Julie Delpy), divorces him due to his impotence. Red, often considered the best of the trilogy, has Irène Jacob as Valentine, a student who develops an unconventional relationship with a retired judge.
Demonstrating Semiotics
One way to rephrase that would be: The Three Colors Trilogy stands out because you can watch them in any sequence, yet they maintain a cohesive theme and hint at the backstory of the other films in a captivating manner. These movies draw heavily on the symbolism of each color from the flag, but Kieslowski also skillfully employs these colors within the film setting to reflect the psychological aspects of his characters. This trilogy is an excellent choice for those eager to explore how symbolism can be artfully applied in cinema.
13 Jean Cocteau’s Orphic Trilogy
Jean Cocteau’s Orphic Trilogy, a set of surrealist films, delves into the intricate bond between artists and their craft. This trio of movies consists of “The Blood of a Poet” (1930), “Orpheus” (1950), and “The Testament of Orpheus” (1960). “The Blood of a Poet” marked Cocteau’s first venture into directing, featuring four parts that explore the poet’s connection to life and death. In comparison, “Orpheus” is a more literal interpretation of the Orphic myth, focusing on the demise of Eurydice. Lastly, “The Testament of Orpheus” finds Cocteau portraying an 18th-century poet, with Pablo Picasso making a special appearance in this production.
Surrealist Masterclass
The Orphic trilogy is a must-watch for anyone interested in avant-garde or surrealist filmmaking. Jean Cocteau is a landmark figure in early twentieth-century surrealism, who brought his artistry to the screen through cinematic poetry. The trilogy, especially the Testament of Orpheus, is a testament to his life as an artist and the worlds he created within his work. Its first installment began in the early days of narrative cinema and continued as the medium progressed, expanding the scope of cinematic possibilities as each film was made.
12 Ingmar Bergman’s Faith Trilogy
Ingmar Bergman, a renowned Swedish filmmaker, crafted his Faith Trilogy, a series of films exploring personal faith in the context of modernity. The trilogy comprises three movies: “Through a Glass Darkly” (1960), “Winter Light” (1963), and “The Silence” (also 1963). In “Through a Glass Darkly,” we follow a family’s journey to a secluded island, delving into the struggles of the daughter suffering from schizophrenia. The narrative of “Winter Light” unfolds as we witness the internal turmoil of a country priest. Lastly, “The Silence” tells the story of two sisters who embark on a journey abroad and struggle to effectively communicate with each other.
Spiritual Contemplation
The Faith Trilogy, by Berman, carries his signature existential ambiance, delving deeper into the spiritual essence of contemporary life. Its characters are estranged, clinging to shreds of faith in a seemingly godless era. These films can be enjoyed separately or collectively, with “The Silence” standing out as one of the most sexually daring productions of its epoch, thereby earning a significant place in film history.
11 Michelangelo Antonioni’s Trilogy on Modernity and Its Discontent
In the same vein as Ingmar Bergman’s Faith Trilogy, Italian filmmaker Michelangelo Antonioni’s trilogy delves into the themes of modernity and its unease, focusing on characters who feel disconnected as they seek meaning in a swiftly changing society marked by modernism.
The trilogy, which came out within a year of one another, consists of “The Adventure” (1960), “The Night” (1961), and “The Eclipse” (1962). Each film features Monica Vitti, who often worked with the director. In “The Adventure,” a woman mysteriously vanishes during a boating trip with companions in the Mediterranean, prompting her lover and best friend to search for her. The story of “The Night” follows a writer (Marcello Mastroianni) and his disenchanted spouse (Jeanne Moreau) as they navigate their relationship challenges over the course of a day. “The Eclipse,” on the other hand, focuses on a young woman who embarks on a stormy romance with a greedy stockbroker.
A Treatise on Alienation and Yearning
In contrast to some trilogies that may include less successful films, every part of Antonioni’s trilogy is highly regarded. These thought-provoking movies delve into the themes of consumer culture, individual discontentment, and troubled relationships using a distinctive perspective.
Even though it was produced more than five decades ago, the challenges portrayed within its storyline continue to resonate with the complexities of contemporary life in the postmodern era. Additionally, the characters’ behavior mirrors a shift in cinema, particularly significant for post-war European films, where characters are no longer merely passive recipients or active participants in events, but rather become static representations of their aimless and purposeless existence within a desolate environment.
10 Abbas Kiarastomai’s Koker Trilogy
The film collection known as the Koker Trilogy by Iranian director Abbas Kiarostami features movies set in the rural Iranian village of Koker. These films include “Where is the Friend’s House?”, released in 1987, “And Life Goes On” from 1992, and “Through the Olive Trees,” which came out in 1994.
Notably, it was Kiarostami who labeled the trilogy as such, but film analysts are the ones who typically use that term.
Formal Experimentation
The distinctive charm of the Koker Trilogy lies in how each movie subtly ties into its predecessors, not by adhering to a conventional linear storyline but by exploring aspects related to the production of the previous film. This innovative approach allows Iranian filmmaker Kiarostami to explore and experiment with the boundaries between reality and fiction, resulting in a thought-provoking collection of films that challenges traditional perceptions about cinema.
9 Gregg Araki’s Teen Apocalypse Trilogy
The Teen Apocalypse Trilogy by Gregg Araki features three unconventional, punk-influenced narratives that explore the complexities of adolescence, including self-discovery, sexuality, identity, and the intense feelings associated with growing up.
The trilogy encompasses the movies “Totally F***ed Up” from 1993, “The Doom Generation” from 1995, and “Nowhere” from 1997. “Totally F***ed Up” portrays the complex romantic lives of six troubled teenagers who identify as gay. “The Doom Generation ” features Rose McGowan and James Duval as Amy and Jordan, a pair who pick up a hitchhiker on their way home from an evening out, leading to a series of unintended crimes that force them to flee through the streets of Los Angeles. “Nowhere” provides a glimpse into a single day in the lives of a group of college students residing in Los Angeles, showcasing the bizarre events, chaos, and violence they encounter.
****Regrettably, only the film titled Totally Malfunctioned from the trilogy is not accessible on the Criterion Channel at this moment. However, with its latest 4k release by Criterion, there’s a possibility it might become available in the future. In the meantime, eager viewers can rent it on Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies & TV, and Fandango Now.
Postmodern Angst
Gregg Araki, a leader in the New Queer Cinema movement, skillfully portrays a sense of disenchantment among his characters who seem out-of-place in their world. While the vibrant backdrops and melodious shoegaze tunes suggest a different narrative, the characters themselves appear to inhabit a desolate landscape devoid of direction or meaning, thereby vividly depicting an apocalyptic atmosphere.
8 Three by Céline Sciamma
The film trilogy by Céline Sciamma, titled simply “Three,” explores the journey of adolescence as it revolves around teenagers grappling with self-discovery, sexuality, and social dynamics. The series includes “Water Lilies” (2007), “Tomboy” (2011) and “Girlhood” (2014). In “Water Lilies,” a heartfelt drama unfolds about a love triangle between three girls during the summer. “Tomboy” tells the story of a pre-teen exploring gender identity and friendships after relocating to a new town. Lastly, “Girlhood” focuses on a teenager who seeks solace in a girl gang in the suburbs of Paris.
The Trials of Adolescence
3 Films by Céline Sciamma present captivating depictions of contemporary youth experiences. These films sensitively delve into themes like gender identity, sexuality, and the female perspective. Each movie is rich in both narrative and visual elements, contributing significantly to some of the most influential coming-of-age films during the 2010s.
7 The Terrence Davies Trilogy
The Terrence Davies trilogy comprises a set of semi-autobiographical short films that narrate the life story of a closeted gay man named Robert Tucker. This collection includes “Children” (1976), “Madonna and Child” (1980), and “Death and Transfiguration” (1983). In “Children,” we explore Robert’s childhood struggles with a strict Catholic school environment, where he endured abuse from his father. “Madonna and Child” focuses on Robert as an adult, dealing with bureaucratic life, grappling with his sexuality, and caring for his ailing mother. “Death and Transfiguration” depicts the later years of Robert’s life, where he reflects on his existence, mortality, and personal growth.
Reflections on a Life Not Lived
Though these movies might be brief in length, they are far from empty in content. The Terrence Davies trilogy presents a poignant and sorrowful portrayal of a man who carries guilt and loneliness throughout his life. Despite their melancholic tone, these films showcase a powerful visual aesthetic and an empathetic connection with the main character.
6 Andrzej Wajda: Three War Films
Andrzej Wajda’s Three War Films is a collection that portrays life in Poland during World War II. This trilogy includes “A Generation” (1955), “Kanal” (1957), and “Ashes and Diamonds” (1958). In “A Generation,” we follow the story of a young man living under German occupation in Warsaw, who becomes part of the resistance movement. “Kanal” focuses on the 1944 Warsaw Uprising, telling the tale of a band of resistance fighters trying to evade Nazi forces. Lastly, “Ashes and Diamonds” unfolds during the post-World War II period, centering around a Home Army soldier tasked with assassinating the Russian secretary of the Polish Worker’s Party.
Fate of a Nation
Wadja’s Three War Movies significantly enrich international film history by offering insights into the hardships faced by Poles during German occupation and those involved in resistance efforts. Notably, “Ashes and Diamonds” stands out as a key title within this trilogy, often regarded as one of the finest works in Polish cinema. These films masterfully portray the deeply emotional stories of people surviving in one of history’s darkest periods.
5 Ulysses Jenkins’s Video Griot Trilogy
Ulysses Jenkins’s Video Griot Trilogy is a collection of short films that explore history and culture in an essayistic manner. The trilogy includes “Self Divination” (1989), “Mutual Native Duplex” (1990), and “The Nomadics” (1991). “Self Divination” delves into the African diaspora, “Mutual Native Duplex” examines the bond between African natives and African Americans, while “The Nomadics” concentrates on people of color globally.
Constructing History
The Video Griot Trilogy employs a distinctive, artistic style within the realm of documentaries, utilizing archival footage, images, and image processing techniques. Filmmaker Jenkins tackles thought-provoking topics like race and global identity in an innovative manner by incorporating formal experimentation and contemplative narration. Throughout his career, he has been committed to portraying underrepresented historical and cultural aspects while shedding light on them.
4 Nobuhiko Obayashi’s Anti-War Trilogy
Under the guidance of Nobuhiko Obayashi, director of the iconic horror movie “House” (1977), comes an exceptional film trilogy called the Anti-War Trilogy. This collection of movies is crafted around Japan’s historical context and emotional wounds.
This trilogy encompasses three films: “Casting Blossoms to the Sky” (2012), “Seven Weeks” (2014), and “Hanagatami” (2017). “Casting Blossoms to the Sky” takes place following the Tohoku Earthquake and follows a journalist venturing to Nagaoka for a memorial festival, where they uncover the city’s intricate past while also gaining self-understanding. “Seven Weeks” portrays the demise of an elderly individual and chronicles his family’s endeavor to piece together his life narrative amidst the country’s hardships throughout history. Lastly, “Hanagatami” tells the story of a teenager who resides with his aunt during WWII, exploring the theme of lost innocence as they confront the harsh realities of war.
In the Face of Tragedy
Obayashi’s Anti-War trilogy presents a unique and powerful collection of films, using unconventional pop-art aesthetics to portray heartrending tragedies related to war. Each movie is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant, offering insights into the profound impact of conflict on a nation’s populace. Viewing these films individually or as a set offers a compelling exploration of the artist’s fervor and anti-war message.
3 Márta Mészáro’s Diary Trilogy
Martha Meszaro’s semi-autobiographical Diary Trilogy primarily revolves around the story of an orphan named Juli, set in post-WWII Hungary. Each film in the trilogy explores different aspects of her life as depicted to various individuals in her circle. The trilogy includes “Diary for My Children” (1984), “Diary for My Lovers” (1987), and “Diary for My Mother and Father” (1990).
Witnessing History
In simple terms, Mèszáro’s Diary Trilogy masterfully portrays a single girl’s journey through oppressive totalitarianism. The trilogy combines her private life, aspirations, and fantasies with real-life footage of the environment she inhabits. Mèszáro uniquely captures this narrative from a female perspective, which has inspired other Hungarian female filmmakers to create their own works. These films are deeply introspective, thoughtful, and leave room for interpretation, allowing viewers to empathize and connect with the characters they were dedicated to.
2 Marcel Pagnol’s Marseille Trilogy
The 1930s trilogy by Marcel Pagnol, titled the Marseille Trilogy, chronicles a friendship-turned-romance over several years. It includes three novels: “Marius” (1931), “Fanny” (1932), and “Cesar” (1936). The story begins with “Marius,” in which Marius and Fanny, initially just friends, discover their feelings for each other. However, Marius’s ambition to sail the seas creates an obstacle in their relationship. The subsequent novels, “Fanny” and “Cesar,” delve deeper into the intricate romance and personal journeys of the characters.
Love Across the Years
Although Marius and Fanny share deep feelings for one another, numerous obstacles prevent their relationship from blossoming. The trilogy offers an insightful portrayal of real-life challenges that hinder love while maintaining a balance between humor and romance. Given Pagnol’s background in theater and the films being produced during the early sound era in cinema, they incorporate elements of stage performance that make them delightfully playful and captivatingly entertaining.
1 First, Negative Two, 38: A Trilogy by Micaela Durand and Daniel Chew
Micaela Durand and Daniel Chew’s New York-based short film trilogy explores the human experience in the digital age, where life seems to unfold constantly on social media screens and genuine human interaction appears distant. Here’s a breakdown:
Navigating the Digital Age
Initially, the short film titled “Negative Two, 38” offers a strikingly authentic portrayal of life in today’s digital era for numerous people. It resonates as it highlights the lonely and detached feelings brought about by an unfiltered interaction with social media platforms, and how this impact self-perception and interpersonal relationships. The movies, all under half an hour each, are highly recommended, powerfully encapsulating a shared moment that the world is going through at present.
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2024-10-13 18:02