How to Start Exploring World Cinema on DVD & Blu-ray
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World cinema can lead you to films you may never have come across otherwise.
You might know a director, remember a film from a festival, or simply want to watch something outside the usual English language releases. You do not need to know everything about world cinema before you start. Sometimes one film is enough to send you looking for the next.
Start with a country or film movement
If you already enjoy films from a particular country, that can be a good place to begin. French crime films, Japanese dramas, Italian horror, Scandinavian noir and Hong Kong action cinema can all lead you towards directors and titles you may not have seen before.
You can also explore movements such as the French New Wave, Italian neorealism or post war Japanese cinema. Once you find one film you enjoy, it is often worth looking at what else was being made around the same time.
Follow a director, actor or genre
A familiar name can make it easier to try something new. If you enjoyed one film by a particular director, look at their earlier work or films made with the same actors.
Genre can work just as well. World cinema includes dramas, thrillers, horror, comedy, animation, martial arts, historical films and much more. Starting with a type of film you already enjoy can make browsing feel less daunting.
Check the language and subtitle options
Before buying, check the listing for the spoken language and subtitle options. Some releases include English subtitles, while others may have extra language tracks or different subtitle choices. Dubbed versions can also vary between editions, so the individual listing is the best place to check what is included.
Look at the edition as well as the title
The same film can have several DVD or Blu ray releases. One edition might include interviews, commentary, a booklet, bonus films or a different cut of the film. Another may simply contain the feature itself.
If extras matter to you, it is worth checking the edition details before ordering. If you mainly want to watch the film, a standard release may suit you perfectly well.
Check the region before ordering
DVDs and Blu rays can be restricted by region, so check the region shown in the listing against your player. UK buyers will commonly use Region 2 DVDs and Region B Blu rays, although some discs and players are region free.
Each Dad's Collection listing gives information for the actual copy being sold. The photographs show the exact item you will receive, together with the edition, region and condition details where known.
For more information about how Dad's Collection DVDs, Blu rays, CDs and books are tested, photographed and described, visit the Dad's Collection Condition Guide.
Keep a list of films you want to find
Dad's Collection contains individual copies gathered over many years, so titles disappear as they sell. If nothing catches your eye straight away, keep a note of countries, directors, actors or genres you want to explore and have another look later. Sometimes the most interesting finds are the films you were not originally searching for.
Find your next film
Browse the current World Cinema collection and check the individual listings for language, subtitles, regions, editions and condition.
For information about ordering, delivery and returns, visit the Frequently Asked Questions.