From an online reviewer:

I'm not sure if a better 5 film collection exists right now. While this collection is missing one big thing, "The Big Lebowski", it is nevertheless the essential Coen brothers set to own. Whether you have been a fan since "Blood Simple" or you have just been introduced to the Coen's magic with their amazing new film "No Country for Old Men", then this set will appeal to you. Containing 5 films, "Blood Simple", "Raising Arizona", "Miller's Crossing", "Barton Fink", and "Fargo" this set covers all the bases of the Coen brothers brand of film making. From the ridiculously hilarious (Raising Arizona), to the dark and dramatic (Miller's Crossing and Blood Simple), and finally to a hybrid of the two (Fargo and Barton Fink), these films show the Coen brothers at their best.

One thing you will notice throughout these films is that the brothers use the same stable of actors in several of their movies. I have heard some people complain about this, but I think it is fantastic. The reason they do this is because they know how to get the exact performance that they want from each of these great actors (John Goodman being a prime example). And the characters throughout their films are so quirky and distinct, that you will never have to worry about seeing the same performance twice.

If you don't own any Coen films then nothing should be stopping you from picking up this set, but even for fans who may own a film or two, or three, it is a great way to have 5 of the brothers best films in one place. Pick up "The Big Lebowski" and, if you like, "O Brother Where Art Thou", and "The Man Who Wasn't There" and you will have every Coen film worth owning.

Another online reviewer:

This is a must have for Coen brothers fans. Awesome collection of their earlier works. The only missing piece is The Big Lebowski. Alas this will be re-released again and again in various collector editions. For the money this collection is your best bet. You will surely watch all of these movies many times and love every minute.