The Criterion Collection makes special editions of fine films that are nearly as good as Steelbooks. Though I don’t always love their interface, their editions usually come with booklets and an above average number of special features. Many university and public libraries carry their discs or subscribe to the video on demand service Kanopy, which includes their films, so if you have access to a good library, you may be able to see much or all of their catalog at no cost. Also, Barnes and Noble will often have good Black Friday deals on them.
Matewan is my favorite movie in my Criterion Collection collection.The In-Laws is my favorite Criterion Collection movie that is not in my Criterion Collection collection.
But maybe you can watch them for free somehow.
I’ve reviewed The Thin Red Line and Overlord, and they are in my Criterion Collection collection.