criterionforum.org

Yes, there is a noticeable difference. Arrow’s grade leans more natural whereas Criterion attempted to emulate how the film looked on prints but unfortunately they didn’t go all the way as you can see below:

Eastmancolor 35mm print scan: https://filmcolors.org/galleries/the-last-emperor-1987/
Matching Criterion screenshots: https://forum.blu-ray.com/showpost.php? ... tcount=154
Criterion vs. Arrow: https://slow.pics/c/GPfrKLXh

wow another case of maybe having to get both and see which looks best on my system to me

nicolas wrote: Sun Oct 18, 2026 6:48 am Yes, there is a noticeable difference. Arrow’s grade leans more natural whereas Criterion attempted to emulate how the film looked on prints but unfortunately they didn’t go all the way as you can see below:

Eastmancolor 35mm print scan: https://filmcolors.org/galleries/the-last-emperor-1987/
Matching Criterion screenshots: https://forum.blu-ray.com/showpost.php? ... tcount=154
Criterion vs. Arrow: https://slow.pics/c/GPfrKLXh

Since I don’t have either release would you recommend I get both, or the Criterion if I had to pick one?

This is a tricky question as the grades are so different and neither one matches the print. The more luminous yellows on the Arrow seem to be more in line with the prints but Arrow's overtly magenta / reddish hues across the board definitely aren't. I have both but if I had to pick one, I'd personally pick the Criterion as it's got a more convincing film-like appearance.