Sullivan's Travels (The Criterion Collection)

Considered by many to be the best film ever made about the film industry, Preston Sturges's masterpiece follows Hollywood director Joel McCrea as he grows tired of producing lighthearted comedies and takes on the challenge of creating a socially responsible drama, O Brother, Where Art Thou, despite having no personal experience with hardship. To gain inspiration, he sets out on a journey as a hobo and encounters both the beautiful Veronica Lake and a wealth of unexpected trouble.

The Criterion Collection DVD offers a comprehensive look at Sturges's life, using his most famous film as a launching point. The movie itself is presented in exceptional quality, complete with insightful commentary from modern-day humorists Christopher Guest and Michael McKean, along with a perfectly curated selection of production stills, behind-the-scenes photos, and promotional materials. Additionally, the disc includes fascinating storyboards and blueprints illustrating the film's production process.

But the real highlight of the DVD is the in-depth exploration of Sturges's personal history. Listeners can enjoy rare radio recordings of the filmmaker reciting poetry, singing songs, and conducting interviews with influential figures such as Hedda Hopper—content that is often overlooked on definitive DVD releases. Furthermore, an exclusive interview with Sturges's final wife, Sandy, sheds light on the filmmaker's later years, filling in crucial details about his life.

The centerpiece of the collection is a 76-minute documentary titled "Preston Sturges: The Rise and Fall of an American Dreamer," which won an Emmy for its writer-critic, Todd McCarthy (Visions of Light). This captivating film provides an entertaining and insightful look at Sturges's captivating life and his lasting impact on Hollywood as a pioneering screenwriter. Overall, this Criterion Collection release offers a rich and immersive experience for fans of Sturges and classic cinema alike.

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