DVD package design: Does Criterion do it best?

DVDs by their very nature offer a world of design possibilities – they have relatively little text, rich subject matter, and the glamour of all things Hollywood.

And yet so many movies are packaged in the blandest pieces of design imaginable. In many cases, DVD packages aren’t even bad enough to be interesting. Ironic, since “standing out on the shelf” is the stated aim of anyone who even attempts to design a package for a consumer market.

Instead, all too many DVD packages have the charisma of a strip mall.

But one company that really highlights good design is Criterion. Their huge collection of international films is typically packaged in boxes that are visually compelling and quite unique.

Here’s a nice discussion of Criterion’s DVD box designs. Also, take a look at the Criterion website for more gems like these. Yum. Anyone who appreciates good design will find plenty to enjoy here.

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