Charles Burnett talks ‘Killer of Sheep’ 4K restoration, and the film’s lasting influence

After a theatrical release in select theaters by Janus Films, the Criterion Collection now introduces the new 4K restoration of Charles Burnett’s 1977 feature debut film, Killer of Sheep, into its library. The film follows a family in Watts, with the father in this household being Stan, who works in a slaughterhouse. Burnett's understanding of working-class family dynamics makes for a story that’s as relatable as it is emotionally devastating at moments. These complex themes portrayed in film have served as inspiration for the likes of Barry Jenkins, whose Oscar-winning film Moonlight offers a similar blend of cinematic storytelling through the lives of adults and children. We’ll dig deeper into the film by speaking with its filmmaker, Charles Burnett.

The 4K restoration of ‘Killer of Sheep’ is out now in Blu-ray and 4K UHD; to read more about the special features included, and to purchase the film, click here.