I bought this set of Chabrol films not knowing what to expect and guided by the numerous positive remarks from previous reviewers. I am certainly not disappointed. This is day 2 and I have seen 4 of the films and can't wait to watch the rest. This is cinematography at its artistic best. These films, while suspenseful very much a la Hitchcock, are a pleasure to watch. No over-the-top, gratuitous violence or sex, but simple stories beautifully told with just the right balance of excitement and sheer, pleasurable viewing. The direction, camerawork and acting - the whole mise en scene - is, to my mind perfectly executed. To label these films 'dated' indicates a purblind,bigoted approach with no true appreciation of, or sensitivity to, the nature of the cinematographic medium.
I would highly recommend this collection and cannot wait to get my hands on volume two which will be top of my Christmas list together with Rohmer and Jean-luc Goddard.