Second Run

As noted here, Second Run are doing a pretty good job of breaking with the tradition of making DVD packaging as ugly as possible. The typography is understated and in some cases they've even commissioned illustrations rather than using stills. Even when they do just use a still it's clearly more thoughtful and elegant than the usual standards.

I've often wondered why DVD covers are generally so awful. Is it just cost-cutting? Unlike books, they do have a readymade visual identity, but that doesn't always translate to still imagery. It's understandable why mainstream films don't deviate from the mass-market norms, but I'm sure the more 'alternative' ones could afford to be more adventurous. They might even sell a few more copies. Both The Cremator and Valerie and her Week of Wonders are, by the way, truly original and essential viewing.

On the subject of DVDs, this caught my eye recently - the design's by Franciszek Starowieyski, and although I've never heard of the film or the director, it made me want to find out more (see?).