The Human Condition: The Criterion Collection Blu-ray

The Human Condition from The Criterion Collection is a three-disc Japanese-language Blu-ray presentation of Masaki Kobayashi’s six-part wartime drama. Its reported runtime is 9 hours and 54 minutes, so this edition suits viewers ready for a sustained, substantial film experience.

At a glance

Six-part drama following Kaji from labour camp supervisor to soldier and Soviet prisoner of war, as he struggles to uphold his morals in a corrupt system.
The listing describes a high-definition digital restoration and different audio formats across the film: uncompressed monaural for Parts 1–4 and 4.0 surround DTS-HD Master Audio for Parts 5 and 6.
Special features listed include interviews, an appreciation of the director and film, trailers and an essay by critic Philip Kemp.

Price

$52.20Save 20%

Reference price: ~~$65.59~~

Price checked: 12 Nov 2026

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Pros and cons

Pros

Three discs present the film’s six parts together in one edition.
The stated restoration and film-specific interviews and essay add material for viewers interested in the film and its production.
Japanese-language presentation with subtitles is identified in the format details.

Cons

The reported runtime of 9 hours and 54 minutes is a significant time commitment.

Technical specifications

8 specifications

Edition and format
Model	BR3259
Studio	The Criterion Collection
Format	Blu-ray, Subtitled
Language	Japanese
Genre	Drama
Number of discs	3
Release date	8 June 2021

Dimensions and installation
Dimensions and weight listed	17.02 x 13.72 x 1.78 cm; 131.54 Grams

What to know before buying

Listing details to confirm

The runtime is reported in customer feedback, while the product details do not specify subtitle language or whether the subtitles are removable. Confirm subtitle suitability and playback compatibility before buying.

Who is it for?

A good fit for

Viewers interested in Japanese cinema, wartime dramas and Masaki Kobayashi’s work.
Collectors seeking a multi-disc edition with restoration details and supplementary interviews.

Less suited to

Buyers looking for a short film or a single-sitting watch.

The Human Condition: The Criterion Collection Blu-ray · photo 2 — Additional product photo 2

Customer reviews on Amazon

4.6 / 5 · 450 ratings

5 stars80%80%
4 stars11%11%
3 stars4%4%
2 stars1%1%
1 star4%4%

Customer feedback is strongly positive about the film’s filmmaking, quality and enjoyment, with the long runtime itself also described positively. Buyers considering this three-disc edition should weigh that enthusiasm against the reported 9-hour-54-minute commitment. Aggregate ratings are mostly five-star, but they do not explain individual experiences or establish a specific reason for any lower ratings.

Positive themes

Customer feedback praises the filmmaking and overall quality.
The supplied feedback describes the long runtime positively and considers the film worthwhile.

Frequently asked questions

How many discs are included?

The listed edition has three discs.

What language is the film in?

The listed language is Japanese. The format is described as subtitled, but the subtitle language is not specified.

What extras are listed?

The listing names interviews with Masaki Kobayashi and Tatsuya Nakadai, an appreciation featuring Masahiro Shinoda, trailers and an essay by critic Philip Kemp.