The Criterion Shelf: Directed by Juzo Itami

Tampopo is a perfect summation of Juzo Itami's vibe for its dark, almost cruel humour surrounding a sweet central relationship. "Japan is a culture where if you want something to eat, or you want to have sex, or whatever, you just do it," the director once said.

The Criterion Shelf: Pre-Code Paramount

From Morocco to Kiss and Make-Up, Criterion Channel's Pre-Code Paramount collection features some surprising violence and hanky panky with Marlene Dietrich and Mae West at their best.

The Criterion Shelf: Fox Noir

Surveying the film's in Criterion Channel's collection of Fox Noirs, including Laura, Nightmare Alley, Panic in the Streets, and Niagara.

The Criterion Shelf: 8 Films By Jia Zhangke

To hear Jia Zhangke's cinema described is to brace yourself for dry, dull lectures on the state of the world today, but to watch his work is to discover worlds as fascinating as anything the George Lucases of the industry can imagine.