The first time I saw "The Seven Samurai," the title credits called it "The Magnificent Seven." That's how it was initially released in English-speaking countries until John Sturges' excellent Western remake appropriated that title in 1960.

But "Samurai" — about a besieged village in 17th-century feudal Japan that hires seven warriors to protect it — became an uncontested classic of cinema under any title. Still, for years, Americans who saw it here didn't get to see all of it. Japan's Toho Studios cut 50 minutes from the film before showing it to potential U.S. exhibitors. When the film was re-released after the success of Sturges' remake, another 20 minutes were trimmed.

That means that many of its most ardent admirers didn't see the original 3-hour, 27-minute cut until it was released on home video. Now Criterion has rereleased "Samurai" as a three-disc package, with the film spread over two discs. It is divided at the same place an intermission was inserted in Japanese theaters — with another disc devoted to extras.

The set is anchored by a two-hour 1993 interview with the director (now dead), a 50-minute making-of doc made for Japanese TV and a fascinating new documentary titled "Origins and Influences," which explores ancient samurai history and mythology and also looks at the American Westerns that directly inspired Akira Kurosawa (specifically those of the great John Ford).

The film, which was digitally transferred in its original ratio of 1:33.1 from a negative dupe (the original master no longer exists), has also been given a superlative audio remix into 4.0 surround. The illustrated booklet that accompanies the set is impressive, with essays on various aspects of the film by critics and scholars and testimonials from other filmmakers, including Sidney Lumet. It's difficult to imagine a better DVD package devoted to a single film being released this year.

ALSO NEW

The upcoming fifth anniversary of 9/11 has already occasioned a number of new television documentaries, and re- releases of previous 9/11-related investigations and examinations are already on shelves or upcoming. Few, however, are destined to have the gripping effect of "United 93," British director Paul Greengrass' real-time dramatization of the remarkable events that took place on the flight.

Greengrass' film, released theatrically in the spring, tells the story of the fourth airplane hijacked by al-Qaida. It was the only one not to hit its target (most likely the White House or the Capitol) because the plane's passengers and crew members prevented it by fighting back.

"United 93" has now been released as a two-disc "Special Edition." There is also a single-disc edition, manufactured primarily for rental outlets.

Many people elected not to see "United 93" — as well as the current, equally scrupulous "World Trade Center" — because it would be too difficult to watch and evoke too much emotion. It is difficult to view, knowing the fate of the passengers and crew, but it is also cathartic and inspirational. As more than one person has pointed out, it puts our everyday problems and issues into stark perspective. Although faithful filmgoers and TV viewers will recognize some cast members, the filmmakers made an effort to cast unfamiliar faces.

Greengrass and his crew made every effort to talk to those who lost family members and colleagues on the flight, and nearly all of them endorsed the project. Many are seen and heard in a documentary included with the "Special Edition," and their recollections of that day and its aftermath are as affecting and emotionally intense as the drama itself. Some admit they had a difficult time watching the movie but say it left them finding strength in the bravery and sacrifice of the victims. You may find yourself sharing that reaction.