I have always been fascinated by remarkable artistic works that never acquire the audience they deserve because they do not fit some established norm. A perfect example is two films that have just been released on DVD. Neither will ever play at the local cinema because they are just too damned long. The audience might sit still for a three-hour film if it has maximum excitement, but seven hours? It will never happen ... except perhaps in the privacy of your own home. This month, Netflex (rentals) and Amazon (purchase) report impressive sales for these two.

“Staircase” by Jean-Xavier de Lestrade (8 episodes in a 2-disc set). Approximately 7 hours. Close-captioned – Rated NR. 2003. $35

Long before the notorious (and sleazy) trial of Scott Peterson, another Peterson (Michael) was arraigned for the murder of his wife, Kathleen in 2001 in Durham. Film-maker Lestrade managed to get total access to Michael’s defense, and in the ensuing trial he crafts together one of the most riveting and suspenseful murder trials in modern history.

Peterson, a highly successful novelist living in Durham, emerges as one of the most complex and enigmatic personalities in the annals of modern crime. Did his wife fall down the staircase in their upscale Durham home, or did Michael beat her to death? Is it possible that his criticism of the local government in his newspaper column has brought him some payback? What about his fascination with gay internet porn? As his family members testify to his warmth and generosity, what is the significance of the revelation that Michael had another wife in Germany who also fell down a flight of stairs?

Viewers can easily skip to the last episode to find the outcome of the trial, but I doubt that it would resolve the primary issue: Is Peterson guilty or has he been convicted by a jury that did not approve of his “lifestyle?” I would love to know what other viewers think of this one!

“The Decalogue,” directed by Krzysztof Kieslowski. 584 minutes. Rated NR. American release in 1998. (Polish with English subtitles) $71.96

Well, to begin with, you have to admit that is a great idea!

Ten films (approximately one hour each) based on the Ten Commandments and each one a brilliant gem. Kieslowski, who made his reputation with his Trois Couleours trilogy, “Blue, White and Red” has no desire to preach or moralize. The mood ranges from whimsical to humorous to coldly clinical. Some of the films have a very tentative connection with a Commandment, while others (“Thou Shalt not Kill,” for example) are brutally direct. All of the characters live in the same apartment building, but may have only “a passing acquaintance” with their neighbors. Watching these tales often feels like voyeurism, and we sometimes become accustomed to seeing characters from other tales going about their daily lives. The photography is lush and dark, and the music is memorable. As the characters pursue their destinies, a mute observer sits before a fire on a nearby beach. He seems moved by what he is seeing, but he is powerless to affect the future of the characters. Who is he?

— Gary Carden