Criterion's A Confucian Confusion and Mahjong Blu-ray Set Arrives August 19

A Confucian Confusion and Mahjong, two critically acclaimed satires from celebrated Taiwanese director Edward Yang, will be released by The Criterion Collection on Blu-ray on August 19, 2025. Both films receive new 4K digital restorations and are presented with 5.0 surround DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks.

In A Confucian Confusion (1994), Yang explores the complexities of urban life through a satire centered on a group of young professionals in Taipei, highlighting the tension between traditional values and a hypercapitalistic society. Running 129 minutes in color, this film is presented in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio with Mandarin audio and English subtitles.

Mahjong (1996), running 120 minutes, follows a darker comedic tone as it depicts the chaotic lives of swindlers, hustlers, and expats navigating Taipei’s evolving sociopolitical landscape. It is presented in color with English and Mandarin audio tracks and English subtitles.

The release includes a robust selection of special features distributed across two Blu-ray discs. These include excerpts from a 1994 screening where Edward Yang speaks about A Confucian Confusion, a new interview with editor Chen Po-wen, and a conversation between scholar Michael Berry and critic Justin Chang. Also featured is a performance of Yang’s 1992 play Likely Consequence.

Additionally, the set offers an insightful essay by film programmer Dennis Lim alongside a 1994 director’s note offering further context to A Confucian Confusion.

This Criterion release provides technical precision and comprehensive bonus content to deepen appreciation for these seminal films in modern Asian cinema.

Release Date: August 19, 2025

Release Contents:

• New 4K digital restorations: Enhanced visuals and surround DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks.
• Excerpts of director Edward Yang speaking after a 1994 screening of A Confucian Confusion.
• New interview with editor Chen Po-wen: Behind-the-scenes insights.
• Conversation between Michael Berry and Justin Chang: Discussion on cultural studies and film critique.
• Performance of Likely Consequence? (1992): Yang’s stage play performance.
• Essay by Dennis Lim: Critical analysis of the films.
• 1994 director’s note on A Confucian Confusion: Personal insights from Yang on his work.