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Pls feel free to contribute any latest, interesting HD-DVD/Blu-ray news or announcements and voice out any comments/feedbacks you may have. Thanks. :)
Magnolia to Unleash 'The Host' on HD DVD
Tue Apr 24, 2007 at 04:04 PM ET
Hide the children and pets! Magnolia Home Entertainment plans to let the Asian scare flick 'The Host' loose to feast on HD DVD this summer.
Though 'The Host' has enjoyed only a very limited theatrical release in the U.S., it has quickly earned a reputation as the biggest cult horror flick the genre has seen in years.
Magnolia says it will bring the ode to classic monster movies to HD DVD on July 24. No specs are yet available, though the preliminary info from the indie distributor indicates a special edition, so we look forward to at least some supplemental features.
List price has been set at a suggested $29.98.
Magnolia currently has no word on a comparable Blu-ray version. However, given that the majority of their past releases have ultimately been released on both formats, a Blu-ray announcement may be forthcoming.
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'Ghost' to Haunt Blu-ray, HD DVD This Summer
Fri Apr 27, 2007 at 12:02 AM ET
Paramount Home Entertainment has announced they will bring the supernatural blockbuster 'Ghost' to Blu-ray and HD DVD on July 24.
The surprise hit of 1990, the Patrick Swayze-Demi Moore romantic thriller scared up nearly $200 million in domestic box office alone, as well as earning multiple Academy Award nominees including Best Picture (and a Best Supporting Actress win for co-star Whoopi Goldberg).
Paramount recently gave the picture a new special edition overhaul on DVD this past March; the studio will be carrying over all of those newly-produced bonus features for the next-gen release.
Among the spooky special features are an audio commentary with director Jerry Zucker and screenwriter Bruce Joel Rubin, four featurettes, a still gallery, and the film's original theatrical trailer.
Tech specs have not yet been announced, but stay tuned for full details in the days ahead. Paramount has set a $29.95 list price for both the Blu-ray and HD DVD editions.
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HD DVD Title Sales Nearly Equal With Blu-ray Disc :)
April 26, 2007 9:32 AM
HD DVD sales are less than 2,000 behind those of Blu-ray Disc
In a recent battle of press releases, the Blu-ray Association announced that sales of Blu-ray Disc titles have surpassed one million units in less than a year since the format’s introduction. In a statement from the HD DVD Promotional Group received by DailyTech, it appears that sales of HD DVD movies are not far behind those of Blu-ray Disc.
According to stats cited by the HD DVD Group, which are based on recent data from Nielsen Videoscan, Universal, Warner and Toshiba, HD DVD titles are now at 998,059 units sold, representing less-than 2,000 units shy of Blu-ray’s announced figures. Of course, while the next-generation formats fight over claims of collective sales of one million, a single DVD title could easily sell over one million units on its own.
“Yes, these are still small numbers compared to DVD sales, but point being – HD DVD is still very much in the game,” read the HD DVD Group statement. “As more HD DVD titles hit the market (take a look at pre-order rankings for Planet Earth and The Matrix Trilogy) and as prices for HD DVD hardware continue to drop below the $400 mark, we're seeing more equal week to week movie sales ratios between the formats.”
The HD DVD Promotional Group announced last week that it has sold more than 100,000 standalone players in the U.S. since introduction, and claims to be currently outselling dedicated Blu-ray players by a four-to-one margin.
“Why are we just focusing on dedicated players? So we can compare stats on similar hardware with similar attach rates,” explained the HD DVD Group. “That's a key driver of software sales and shows that price is clearly a factor for consumers in deciding to buy dedicated high definition hardware.”
“Bottom line is that HD DVD is staying focused across the board on creating great products at great prices,” the Group added.
http://www.dailytech.com/article.aspx?newsid=7066
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2000 also away from the million mark. Thats pretty good too. Good news for HDDVD. However, I think universal is shooting themselves in the foot with their recent disappointing releases with bad PQ and unplayable disc. Considering they are the only exclusive studio. They should shape up
Children of Men
The Game
The Jerk
By the way is this section just for news and not for reply? Sorry if for news only did not know whether we can reply or make comments to the news. Thanks
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Pls feel free to reply & discuss your reaction in this section. All comments are welcome! ;)
True Raymond... some of the recent movies released by Universal disappoint many fans. I really like the Game... :-[ Let's hope PQ & overall disc stability will improve in future.
Fortunately, my Children of Men plays well in my Tosh HD-A2 without any problem. :)
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Wal-Mart Shoots Down Cheap HD DVD Rumor ;D
April 27, 2007
Wal-Mart denied rumors that it had placed a substantial order with a Taiwan supplier for ultra-cheap HD DVD players that could swing the format wars in that direction.
A spokesperson for the company said Thursday that reported leaks concerning Taiwan-based consumer electronics manufacturer, Fuh Yuan, partnering with TDK in China to manufacture the $250-299 players, had no merit. The report first appeared in AVS Forums , and was picked up by other Web sites.
"The article… was full of inaccuracies and we had no participation in it," the spokesman said in an e-mail to PC Magazine . "Most of the facts, including the purchase, were untrue," she added. "Not sure how it originated."
When asked to comment specifically on a statement appearing on Fuh Yuan's site, which implies the retailer is at least interested in ordering the players, the spokesperson said she could not comment on or disclose Wal-Mart's internal business with suppliers and our orders. However, the supplier said that no deal was imminent.
Wal-Mart, the world's largest retailer, could play an important role in determining the success or failure of a particular format. So far, however, the company has at least publicly supported both camps.
On Thursday, the following statement appeared on Fuh Yuan's site:
"We are sorry to correct the statement that we have two million HD-DVD players order from Wal-Mart and manufactured by China Great Wall Group," Fuh Yuan said. "The actuality is that we had not received yet. We are asked to provide the schedule to Wal-Mart and cost to determine the quantity even more than two million, if the cost is good enough and timing is correct. So the capacity is under consideration. Any qualified manufactured base group will be welcome."
While Wal-Mart denied that any orders had been placed, the company did say that it plans to sell both Blu-ray and HD-DVD components in its stores and online, at least until a definitive winner in the format war is declared.
Currently, the retailer sells both HD-DVD and Blu-ray players, including Philips' $900 Blu-ray BDP900/37 player and Toshiba's $350 HD-D1 HD-DVD player.
"Today, we sell both Blu-ray and HD DVD in our stores nationwide (approx. 750 stores). As with all new technologies, we are committed to providing the best value on products that customers choose as most relevant to them. With new industry developments, we will make shifts in our selections as customer preferences evolve and they vote with their purchase," the company said in a statement.
The spokesperson added: "We expect that as prices decrease and new elements are added in the coming months that consumers will choose which format will dominate, and that could happen by the end of this year."
http://www.physorg.com/news96888339.html
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First Direct-to-HD Feature 'Bell Witch' to Debut This Summer on Blu-ray, HD DVD
Mon Apr 30, 2007
In a next-gen first, the direct-to-video horror film 'Bell Witch: The Movie' will make its exclusive debut on Blu-ray and HD DVD this August.
Starring 'Friday the 13th's "Queen of the Slashers" Betsy Palmer and directed by helmer S. Shane Marr, the indie scarefest was produced with high-definition cameras, and completed entirely in the digital realm.
Though the major studios and other independents routinely release films directly to video without a theatrical release, so far there has been no such releases exclusive to high-definition.
'Bell Witch' will make history as the first direct-to-Blu-ray and HD DVD premiere movie when it debuts simultaneously on both formats on August 15 via distributor Big River Productions, three weeks ahead of its subsequent release on standard-def DVD and to high-definition cable networks on September 1.
"We shot 'Bell Witch' in 24p 1080 HD back in 2002," said Marr via a press statement. "But we decided to hold the film until it could be released in HD so that people could see it as it was meant to be viewed."
No specs, supplemental details nor pricing is yet available for 'Bell Witch: The Movie.' But we'll certainly keep you posted as soon as further details on this notable release are officially announced.
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Paramount Brings 'An Officer and a Gentleman" to Blu-ray, HD DVD
Mon Apr 30, 2007
Paramount Home Entertainment has announced it will bring the '80s blockbuster 'An Officer and a Gentleman" to Blu-ray and HD DVD on July 24.
One of the most popular love stories of the decade, 'An Officer and a Gentleman' earned over $100 million in domestic box office receipts (back when movie tickets cost $3 a pop), turned Richard Gere into a mega-star, and earned Louis Gossett, Jr. a Best Supporting Oscar for his classic portrayal of Gunnery Sergeant Emil Foley.
Paramount, which is already rolling out the red carpet for the film on standard-def DVD with a new special edition (streeting tomorrow), will replicate that set's special features on both next-gen versions.
Among the new extras are five retrospective featurettes with cast and crew (including Gere, Gossett and Debra Winger), a still gallery, the film's original theatrical trailer, and an audio commentary with director Taylor Hackford that appeared on the original DVD (first released in 2001).
Both the Blu-ray and the HD DVD will also include a remastered 1080p transfer, and Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtracks.
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Santana, Yes, Deep Purple Topline Montreux HD DVD Triple Header from Eagle Vision
Tue May 01, 2007
A trio of new concert discs from music legends Deep Purple, Yes and Carlos Santana, all recorded live at the Montreux Rock Festival, highlight Eagle Vision's summer line-up of HD DVD releases.
Three titles are all set to debut on June 26: 'Yes: Live at Montreux,' 'Deep Purple: They All Came Down to Montreux' and 'Santana: Hymns for Peace - Live at Montreux.'
Of the three, only the Yes disc is devoid of extras. The Deep Purple release will include a complete ten-song mini-concert recorded live at the Hard Rock London, plus a band interview. Santana's 'Hymns for Peace' will also feature three bonus tracks, behind-the-scenes footage, and an interview with the guitar god.
No tech specs are yet available, but stay tuned.
Note that there was no mention at presstime of any companion Blu-ray release, but Eagle Vision's two most recent high-def music titles, 'Toto: Live in Amsterdam' and 'Alice Cooper: Live at Montreux' saw simultaneous release on both next-gen formats, so there's a good chance these three titles will also make it to Blu-ray. (UPDATE: As Brian, one of our readers points out, both the Santana and Yes discs have already been released on Blu-ray in Europe, making their US release that much more likely.)
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Universal Breaks Silence on HD DVD Playback Issues; Announces Disc Replacement Program
Tue May 01, 2007
After weeks of persistent complaints from early adopters, Universal has issued a statement regarding playback issues with several of their most recent HD DVD releases.
The issues first surfaced in late March when 'Children of Men' was released on HD DVD, and consumers experienced inconsistent playback problems on both the Xbox 360 add-on and other stand-alone HD DVD playback devices. Since then, readers have reported similar playback issues on 'The Good Shepherd' and other more recently released Universal titles.
While the studio had been mum on the topic for over a month, today they issued a statement to High-Def Digest acknowledging the problems, and initiated a disc replacement program for affected consumers. The studio's full statement follows below:
"Universal is currently investigating reports that Children of Men, The Good Shepherd, and select other discs not playing properly in some HD DVD players. While we believe this is limited to a small number of HD DVD discs, Universal is offering a replacement service for any customers who are experiencing this problem. We are still investigating the cause and will provide further updates as we get them. Any customer problems should be directed to [email protected]."
Needlesstosay, we'll continue to follow this story, and will keep you informed of any developments as they happen. We've also set up a dedicated thread in our Forums area to discuss playback problems with 'Children of Men' and other Universal discs.
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'Black Snake Moan' Comes to Blu-ray, HD DVD
Wed May 02, 2007
Paramount Home Entertainment has announced that the Samuel L. Jackson-Christina Ricci erotic drama 'Black Snake Moan' will make its Blu-ray and HD DVD debut this June.
The down 'n' dirty flick from 'Hustle & Flow' director Craig Brewer paid homage to the gritty exploitation flicks of the '70s, although it found few takers during its recent theatrical release.
Paramount plans on givinbg the flick a boost on high-def, bestowing the "special edition" banner on the title when it hits Blu-ray and HD DVD day-and-date with standard DVD release on June 26.
No specs yet, but the disc comes billed as boasting plenty of supplemental features, so we'll certainly keep you posted as more news comes in.
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'Dante's Peak,' 'Billy Madison' Kick Off Universal July HD DVD Catalog Wave
Wed May 02, 2007
Continuing its aggressive exclusive support of HD DVD, Universal Studios Home Entertainment has announced a quartet of catalog titles for release on July 10.
The line-up will be an eclectic one, including the hit disaster flick 'Dante's Peak,' the romantic comedy 'The Wedding Date,' Adam Sandler's 'Billy Madison,' and the 1994 Kevin Costner Vietnam drama 'The War.'
Tech specs include 1080p/VC-1 transfers on all the releases, along with Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 tracks (at 1.5mbps). 'The War' will be the sole title in the bunch to also feature a Dolby TrueHD mix.
Supplemental details are not yet available, but judging from Universal's previous track record, we expect all of the bonus features included on their standard-def DVD counterparts.
Universal has set a suggested list price of $29.95 each. This latest wave from the Universal sees the studio continuing to deliver on its pledge made earlier this year to release 100 new HD DVD titles in 2007.
These newly-announced catalog titles join the horror new release 'Dead Silence' on July 10, which Universal announced early last week for HD DVD.
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'Face/Off' to Hit Blu-ray, HD DVD this August
Wed May 02, 2007
Bringing another top catalog title to its growing next-gen line-up, Paramount Home Entertainment will unveil a new special edition of the action blockbuster 'Face/Off' this August.
The 1997 Nicolas Cage-John Travolta smash hit was one the biggest sellers for the studio in the early days of DVD. Now, they will finally give the film the long-awaited retrospective treatment, with a new "Collector's Special Edition" due day-and-date on DVD, Blu-ray and HD DVD on August 28.
Unfortunately, there are no specs yet available for the release. Paramount has only specified a $29.95 list price for both the Blu-ray and HD DVD versions, so we'll keep you posted as more news comes in.
'Face/Off' also joins a recent spurt of new next-gen announcements from the studio, who seem intent on making it one crowded (and expensive) season for early adopters. In the past few weeks, they have unveiled a flurry of top catalog releases, including such gems as 'Ghost,' 'An Officer and a Gentleman,' 'The Warriors' and 'The Untouchables,' all due this summer.
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Warner Shuffles June Blu-ray, HD DVD Slate; 'Bulge,' John Wayne Duo See Bumps
Thu May 03, 2007
Warner Home Entertainment is shuffling their May/June next-gen line-up, seeing minor bumps for upcoming titles 'Battle of the Bulge' and the John Wayne classics 'The Cowboys' and 'Rio Bravo.'
First on the switch list is 'Battle of the Bulge,' which Warner originally announced for a May 8 release on Blu-ray and HD DVD. The title will now street one week later, on May 15.
There it will join another original May 8 release, 'The Road Warrior,' which the studio had previously postponed by a week.
Further delays include two John Wayne classics, 'Rio Bravo' and 'The Cowboys.' The studio's initial announcement for the releases saw a May 22 arrival, timed to coincide with the double-header's re-issue on standard-def DVD. The Blu-ray and HD DVD versions will now street two weeks later, on June 5.
Specs, supplements and list prices for all of these rescheduled titles remains the same.
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IMAX Classic 'Blue Planet' to Launch on HD DVD, Blu-ray
Thu May 03, 2007
Bringing another IMAX classic to Blu-ray and HD DVD, Warner Home Entertainment has announced a July 10 next-gen release for 'Blue Planet.'
The IMAX favorite was one of the earliest successes for the large-format attraction back in 1990. Warner will give 'Blue Planet' a new 1080p remastered transfer, and high-resolution audio. The HD DVD version will include a Dolby TrueHD 5.1 track, while the Blu-ray will enjoy an uncompressed PCM 5.1 surround mix (both at 48kHz/16-bit).
Extras include a bonus IMAX feature, "The Dream is Alive!", which has also been remastered in 1080p.
'Blue Planet' is the latest in what seems to be a growing push by the studios to bring an increasing number of large-format IMAX and documentary titles to high-def. 'Blue Planet' follows Disney's announcement last week of another IMAX space-themed title, 'Roving Mars.'
Warner is also bringing 'Blue Planet' to high-def following its hits 'March of the Penguins' and the BBC's 'Planet Earth: The Complete Collection,' which became quite a sales surprise earlier this month when it quickly became one of the biggest-selling HD DVD and Blu-ray titles in the history of either format.
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Warner to Bring 'Amadeus,' 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest' to Blu-ray, HD DVD in 2008
Thu May 03, 2007
Already plotting its 2008 next-gen release schedule, Warner Home Entertainment has revealed plans to bring the Oscar-winning classics 'Amadeus' and 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest' to Blu-ray and HD DVD early next year.
As reported by Home Media Retailing, the news comes as part of an announcement by the studio that they have just signed a five-year renewal of their long-standing distribution pact with Saul Zaentz, the famed producer behind 'Amadeus' and 'Cuckoo's Nest.'
Warner plans to re-issue both titles as part of an extensive promotion celebrating the 80th anniversary of the Academy Awards, as well as in honor of the Best Picture Oscar wins garnered by both 'Amadeus' and 'Cuckoo's Nest.'
Warner will issue both titles sometime in February 2008, simultaneous on Blu-ray and HD DVD.
Specs and further details are, of course, still in the planning stages. But we'll certainly keep you posted as soon as further news comes in on what are sure to be two eagerly-awaited titles.
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HD DVD Turns One
May 4, 2007.
Hard to believe it's been a year since the first HD DVD players and movie titles were made available to eager consumers. Ah, how quickly they grow up.
To celebrate, we announced last week that more than 100,000 dedicated HD DVD consumer electronics players have been sold in the United States — ahead of, ahem, the other high-definition format. Keep in mind that this doesn't include sales of HD DVD PC drives or sales of the Xbox 360 HD DVD Player — just the nifty devices that fit into your home theater cabinet. And by the time you read this, we'll have reached another milestone, with the one millionth HD DVD movie sold. Happy birthday indeed.
Ok, you ask, but what exactly does that mean?
Well, it means people are buying HD DVD players to watch movies. Seriously. Not because they want a game console, or because that newfangled PC has a drive included — it's because they've seen (or heard about) the quality of HD DVD and they want one of their own.
Stay with us here. We know there's been a lot of talk about "volume". Total volume of players, total volume of single title movies sold in a one-week period, expected volume of high-definition movie sales over the next 25 years, expected volume of movie sales pro-rated-against-every-Kevin-Bacon-movie ... in short, too much talk about volume.
Why THIS 100,000 volume number matters is because of its statistical simplicity. When you buy a dedicated HD DVD player, you're buying it to perform a single function. For the studios, you're the best customer — a true movie lover. And that's why the "attachment rate" for HD DVD movies to HD DVD players continues to trend much higher for the format over, ahem, you know who.
So you are happy because you just bought Smokin' Aces or put in your preorder for The Ultimate Matrix Trilogy, and the studios are happy because they don't have to guess if you'll buy a video game instead of a movie. See how that works?
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'We Are Marshall' Headed to Blu-ray, HD DVD
Fri May 04, 2007
In an early announcement, Warner Home Entertainment says it will bring the inspirational sports drama 'We Are Marshall' to Blu-ray and HD DVD on September 18th.
Based on the real-life tragedy that befell West Virginia's Marshall University football team, 'We Are Marshall' scored nearly $50 million at the domestic box office last fall.
Warner will give the film the 1080p/VC-1 treatment on both formats, though audio specs continue the studio's trend of uneven treatment of HD DVD version and Blu-ray. The former will enjoy a full-blown Dolby TrueHD (48kHz/16-bit) surround track, while its rival will have to settle for a standard Dolby Digital 5.1 mix (at 640kbps).
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In an early announcement, Warner Home Entertainment says it will bring the inspirational sports drama 'We Are Marshall' to Blu-ray and HD DVD on September 18th.
Wow, this is really odd for a movie these days - on video a full 9 months after the theatrical release date!
I've been looking forward to this film since a friend of mine is actually in the movie. Since it doesn't even look like it's going to be shown in theaters localyly, I'm apparently in for a long wait.
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Toshiba, 'Sopranos' Star Team Up for HD DVD Campaign
Fri May 04, 2007
Hoping to make next-gen fence-sitters an offer they can't refuse, Toshiba is teaming up with 'Sopranos' star Michael Imperioli for a new HD DVD marketing campaign extolling the virtues of high-definition.
The HD DVD hardware giant has just announced that it has signed Imperioli, who plays Christopher Moltisanti on the Emmy-winning HBO series, to serve as its "ambassador" for the company's new ad campaign touting HD DVD and its REGZA high-definition TV line.
The campaign will feature Imperioli in multiple TV spots espousing his passion for movies, and why HD DVD is the right format for movie buffs. (Whether or not he "whacks" any rival Blu-ray-supporting mobsters in the spot, Moltsanti-style, remains to be seen.)
In what is a notable coincidence, 'The Sopranos' also happens to be the first television title ever to receive a next-gen release -- Warner Home Entertainment debuted 'The Sopranos: Season Six, Part One' on both HD DVD and Blu-ray late last year.
The TV spots featuring Imperioli will run on national cable outlets, including during the 'Sopranos' broadcast on A&E Network and other high-def channels, beginning next month. It will also be backed by an extensive print and radio campaign across multiple outlets.
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Universal Adds Four Catalog Titles to July HD DVD Slate
Tue May 08, 2007
Universal Studios Home Entertainment has announced it will bring four new catalog faves to HD DVD this July, including the hits 'In Good Company,' 'Scent of a Woman,' 'Nutty Professor II' and 'Streets of Fire.'
The quartet will each receive the 1080p/VC-1 treatment along with Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 surround tracks (at 1.5mbps), while 'Nutty Professor II' will also enjoy a full Dolby TrueHD 5.1 track (48kHz/16-bit).
Complete supplemental details are not yet announced, but each is expected to include all of the same supplements as their standard-def counterparts.
All four titles are schedule to street July 24, where they will join the blockbuster 'The Bourne Identity,' which Universal previously announced for HD DVD release last month.
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'Matrix' HD DVD Teaser Trailer Now Online
Tue May 08, 2007
Warner Home Video is ramping up the promotion for its upcoming 'Matrix' trilogy box sets new 40-second teaser trailer now available online.
The clip first appeared earlier today on the official HD DVD Forum consumer website www.theLookandSoundofPerfect.com, which counts Warner among its promotional partners.
Touting the "over 35 hours of supplements" found on both 'The Ultimate Matrix Collection' and 'The Complete Matrix Trilogy' box sets, the clip also promotes Toshiba HD DVD players and the HD DVD add-on drive for the Xbox 360.
Both 'Matrix' sets are currently due to street on May 22, and are expected to rank as the best-selling catalog releases ever on HD DVD when they hit stores.
Warner has not yet announced a Blu-ray release of 'The Matrix,' though the title is expected to hit the format later this year.
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Universal to Bring 'Hot Fuzz' to HD DVD?
Fri May 11, 2007
A recently-added listing on the official HD DVD web site would seem to indicate that Universal Studios Home Entertainment is on the verge of announcing the cult hit 'Hot Fuzz' for HD DVD release sometime in the coming months.
A promo spot appeared for the title earlier this week on the www.thelookandsoundofperfect.com, the official promotional website of the HD DVD Forum, under the "Coming Soon" banner.
Though no specs, street date or other details are given, the listing includes box cover art for 'Hot Fuzz,' alongside a number of other yet-to-be-announced titles, including 'Shaun of the Dead,' 'Darkman,' and 'Sea of Love. Unlike 'Hot Fuzz,' however, all of the other included titles had been previewed earlier in the year at CES.
Still enjoying a hit run in theaters, Universal has not yet announced a formal video release for 'Hot Fuzz,' either on DVD or HD DVD.
For the most part, however, the Look and Sound of Perfect website has proven to be an accurate barometer of upcoming releases, and Universal is one of the site's key promotional partners. So signs look promising for a pending announcement.
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Disc Sales: 'Planet Earth' a Chart-Topper on HD DVD, Blu-ray
Mon May 14, 2007
Everything came up 'Planet Earth' on the next-gen sales chart for the week ending May 6, with the HD DVD and Blu-ray versions of the acclaimed BBC nature documentary commanding the No. 1 and No. 2 spots, respectively.
Though the Blu-ray format still enjoyed the overall lead in market share for the week (60 percent versus HD DVD's 40 percent), the HD DVD version of 'Planet Earth' edged out its Blu rival to snag the pole position on the Nielsen chart.
However, it was still a close race, with the Blu-ray version selling 95 copies to every 100 of the HD DVD version.
'Planet Earth' has become something of a sales surprise ever since it was first announced for next-gen release back in April. It quickly ascended up the Amazon rankings for all top-selling discs (including both DVD and high-def), with the HD DVD edition eventually hitting the highest placing so far for a next-gen title.
Also scoring high on the next-gen sales chart for the week of May 6 were Fox's 'Night at the Museum' (No. 3), Buena Vista's 'Deja Vu' (No. 4) -- both Blu-ray exclusives -- and Paramount's cross-format bow of the Oscar-winner 'Dreamgirls' (No. 5).
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'Nip/Tuck' to Make HD DVD, Blu-ray Debut
Mon May 14
Warner Home Video has announced that the racy doctors of 'Nip/Tuck' will hit high-def for the first time this September, with a simultaneous DVD, HD DVD and Blu-ray release of the show's fourth go-round.
Due on September 4, 'Nip/Tuck: The Complete Fourth Season' is the latest for the acclaimed F/X series, which continues to be one of cable's most controversial -- and popular -- original series.
Warner will present all 15 episodes of season four across four discs, each featuring 1080p transfers and 640kbps Dolby Digital 5.1 surround tracks.
Extras are identical on the standard-def and next-gen releases, with each including 3 making-of featurettes, unaired scenes, and a gag reel.
Warner has set a $79.98 MSRP each for the Blu-ray and HD DVD versions.
The debut of 'Nip/Tuck' on Blu-ray and HD DVD also sees Warner continue their commitment to TV on high-def, which so far has been a rather underserved category on both formats. The studio has been one of the few to release television programming, having already debuted 'Smallville: The Complete Fifth Season' last fall, as well as distributing 'The Sopranos: Season 6, Part One' for HBO and the top-selling documentary 'Planet Earth' for BBC.
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Xbox 360 Software Update Solves HD DVD Playback Issues, Improves Audio Output
Tue May 15, 2007
A software update released early today by Microsoft solves several disc-specific playback issues and provides a series of new audio playback options to the console's HD DVD add-on.
Owners of the Xbox 360 HD DVD player got a big present this morning from Bill Gates. The software update (which follows last week's release of the Xbox Spring Dashboard) addresses a series of frequently-requested feature upgrades -- perhaps most notably fixing incompatibility issues with 'Digital Video Essentials' and other select HD DVD releases, as well as resolving reported lip sync problems on titles like 'Batman Begins.'
Gone as well are previously reported issues with the player being stuck in "night mode," which dynamically compressed the range of the soundtrack. Amir Majidimehr, corporate VP at Microsoft’s Consumer Media Technology Group has promised that this improvement alone will provide owners of the add-one with a noticeable boost in performance.
The update also notably includes several upgrades to the add-on's ability to decode audio streams via TOSLINK or HDMI. While the player is still unable to output true lossless Dolby TrueHD streams, it now offers users the option to output all HD DVD audio (including down-sampled TrueHD) in Digital Stereo (2 channel PCM), 640 kbps Dolby Digital 5.1, and 1.5 Mbps DTS 5.1 or WMA Pro.
Finally, in a slight tweak of the player's on-screen UI, three new options have been added: subtitle, camera angle and audio, allowing users to toggle those settings directly from the Xbox 360 media remote's display button rather than having to navigate through the disc's software menu.
In order to begin taking advantage of these new features, you'll need to have access to (and be signed in to) Xbox Live. Simply load an HD DVD movie, and you should be prompted for an auto update. If you don’t have access to Xbox Live, Microsoft says the update will be available for download from Xbox.com later this week.
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'Heroes: Season One' Coming to HD DVD This August
Tue May 15, 2007
Get ready to "Save the cheerleader, save the world" in high-def late this summer, when Universal Studios Home Entertainment unleashes 'Heroes: Season One' on HD DVD.
The break-out superhero series has been one of the few bright spots for beleaguered NBC this year, where it quickly amassed a huge cult following that should devour the show in high-def.
Tailor-made for HD DVD, Universal will give the show the full box set treatment on August 28, with a seven-disc set expected to include plenty of extras.
Though the studio has not yet released any tech or supplemental details, recent public comments from the show's creators indicate some fun goodies should be in store for fans.
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'300' to Conquer Blu-ray, HD DVD This July :-*
Tue May 15, 2007
Warner Home Video has announced it will bring the blockbuster '300' to Blu-ray and HD DVD this July in feature-laden special edition sets.
Fueled by a domestic gross of over $200 million, the ultra-violent, CGI-fueled extravaganza was the surprise hit of the winter season.
Warner will bow both a Blu-ray and HD DVD version of the spectacle on July 31, each boasting impressive tech specs and copious bonus features.
Both the BD-50 Blu-ray and HD DVD/DVD combo versions will feature identical 1080p/VC-1 transfers and, in a welcome move from Warner, matching Dolby TrueHD (48kHz/16-bit) 5.1 surround tracks.
Also comparable on each will be "over 90 minutes of bonus features," including audio commentary with director Zack Snyder and the filmmakers, multiple featurettes and more.
Things become a bit more lopsided as we move into the high-def exclusive features, with only the HD DVD edition (not the Blu-ray) also boasting a picture-in-picture video commentary, plus the exclusive "Vengeance & Valor" interactive game.
Retail will be $39.95 for the HD DVD combo, and $34.95 for the Blu-ray.
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'Darkman,' 'Sea of Love' Lead Universal Late July HD DVD Wave
Universal Studios Home Entertainment has announced its last wave of HD DVD titles for July, featuring the catalog favorites 'Darkman' and 'Sea of Love.'
Each will receive 1.85:1 widescreen transfers encoded in 1080p/VC-1 video. Audio specs include Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 surround tracks (1.5mbps) on both, while 'Darkman will also receive a full-blown Dolby TrueHD (48kHz/16-bit) option as well.
Supplemental features will replicate those found on the standard-def DVD counterparts, which for 'Sea of Love' includes an audio commentary, retrospective featurette and deleted scenes, while on 'Darkman' means absolutely zero.
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Toshiba Offers $100 Rebate on New HD DVD Players
The HD DVD Promotions Group today announced that Toshiba will be offering a month-long $100 rebate on new HD DVD players, bringing the entry-level list price for a stand-alone HD DVD player to a record-low $299.
Beginning this Sunday (May 20th) and continuing until June 16th, consumers buying Toshiba's HD-A2 model player will receive an an instant, in-store rebate of $100. During the final week of the promotion (from June 10th through June 16th), Toshiba will extend the $100 rebate to any Toshiba HD DVD player, and will offer an additional $100 rebate to consumers purchasing both an HD DVD player and a 42 inch (or larger) Toshiba HDTV.
The HD DVD group says the rebate will be available across a wide range of retailers, including Best Buy, Circuit City, HHGregg and Amazon.com.
Consumers taking advantage of this Father's Day-timed rebate are also eligible to choose five free HD DVD titles (from a selection of fifteen), as part of a previously-announced promotion, which ends July 31, 2007.
This latest rebate offer comes in a particularly frenzied season for both HD DVD and Blu-ray, as both next-gen formats have bulked up their release slates leading into the summer.
The HD DVD group, which has slipped behind Blu-ray in overall disc sales since the start of 2007, has stepped up its marketing efforts in recent weeks, launching a national marketing and retail campaign anchored by the recent release of a theatrical trailer promoting the format, which has been spotted playing before such high profile titles as 'Spider-man 3.'
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Shhhh! Universal Brings 'Dead Silence' HD DVD Two Weeks Early
Universal Studios Home Entertainment has announced a rare street date advancement for the upcoming HD DVD combo release of 'Dead Silence,' which will now street two weeks ahead of schedule.
First announced late last month for a July 10 release, the studio has decided to move the horror flick up to June 26.
No reason was given for the switch, but now fans of the evil puppet epic won't have to wait as long for the feature-packed combo release.
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Warner to Debut Elvis Presley Classics 'Jailhouse Rock,' 'Viva Las Vegas' on HD DVD
Elvis Presley will make his high-def debut this September, when Warner Home Video brings the classics 'Jailhouse Rock' and 'Viva Las Vegas' to HD DVD.
The first-ever Elvis films to hit the next-gen formats, Warner will debut the title on September 18.
Full tech specs and supplemental details are not yet available. However, Warner will be debuting the high-def versions only weeks after it unveils new "Deluxe Editions" of both 'Jailhouse Rock' and 'Viva Las Vegas' on standard-def DVD, so expectations are for exciting new extras.
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'Blade Runner' Comes to Blu-ray, HD DVD This October
In a new promotional flyer housed inside next week's HD DVD release of 'Ultimate Matrix Collection,' Warner is touting an October arrival date for the highly-anticipated upcoming next-gen release of 'Blade Runner.'
Ridley Scott's seminal sci-fi classic has long been available on video, but for remained for years as one of the studio's most highly-requested library titles to receive the special edition treatment.
After over a decade of legal wrangling, Warner announced last fall that the road was finally cleared for a deluxe version of 'Blade Runner' to hit standard-def DVD, Blu-ray and HD DVD sometime in 2007, to mark the 25th anniversary of the film's original theatrical release.
However, no details have since been forthcoming -- until now.
Inside copies of the 'Ultimate Matrix Collection' (streeting this Tuesday, May 22), Warner has included the following advert that gives the first official confirmation of an arrival window for 'Blade Runner' (which is now being dubbed 'The Essential 25th Anniversary Edition'):
We've contacted Warner in hopes of more details, but as of now, the flyer is the only taster fans are going to get -- at least until the full announcement for 'Blade Runner,' which the studio says should arrive "later this summer."
Still, it's exciting news for 'Blade Runner' cultists, who have waited over two decades for what is sure to be the definitive release of the film on Blu-ray and HD DVD.
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get more out of hd matrix with xbox live
http://www.dvdtown.com/news/get-more-out-of-hd-matrix-with-xbox-live/4474
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Xbox Live Offers 'Animatrix' Downloads Free with Purchase of 'Complete Matrix Trilogy' HD DVD
Microsoft says it will offer free downloads of the entire 'Animatrix' series on Xbox Live with purchase of 'The Complete Matrix Trilogy' on HD DVD.
The offer, which was first revealed on the Xbox.com website late last week, comes on the eve of this week's much-hyped HD DVD-exclusive release of the two Matrix box sets -- the 40+ hour 'Ultimate Matrix Collection' and 'The Complete Matrix Trilogy.'
First released on DVD in 2003, 'The Animatrix' was designed to expand and deepen the 'Matrix' mythology as preparation began on the two sequels. Comprised of nine short films utilizing different animation forms and styles, the series was produced by a hand-picked stable of top Japanimation artists.
According to this page on the Xbox.com website, consumers purchasing 'The Complete Matrix Trilogy' will receive a token in the box to download the entire 'Animatrix' series from the Xbox LIVE Marketplace. HD trailers, select scenes and themes from all three 'Matrix' movies are also available for download through May 25th, 2007.
While 'The Animatrix' is already included as one of the 35 hours worth of extras on the 'Ultimate Matrix Collection,' it is not part of the 'Complete Matrix Trilogy,' making this deal that much sweeter for owners of the Xbox 360 hd dvd add-on player who may have opted for the less expensive box set.
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'Shooter' Takes Aim on Blu-ray, HD DVD This July
Paramount Home Entertainment will bring the Mark Wahlberg action flick 'Shooter' to Blu-ray and HD DVD this July, the studio has announced.
The controversial thriller, directed by 'Training Day' and 'King Arthur' helmer Antoine Fuqua, earned nearly $50 million at the domestic box office this past winter.
Paramount has not yet announced tech specs or supplemental details for 'Shooter,' but the studio is billing the release as a special edition, so we can expect bonus features when the title hits Blu-ray and HD DVD simultaneously with the standard-def DVD on July 31.
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Lucasfilm to 'Star Wars' Fans: No Blu-ray, HD DVD on the Horizon :-[
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Responding to persistent rumors of a pending release of the 'Star Wars' films on high-def disc, Lucasfilm has issued a statement denying any such plans for the series in the foreseeable future.
Ever since both next-gen formats launched last year, George Lucas' blockbuster space saga has been one of the most highly-requested "holy grails" on high-def.
But hopes hit a new high several weeks ago when early adopters started buzzing about this Amazon.com listing for the Star Wars Trilogy on Blu-ray. Such "placeholder" pages for highly anticipated titles are common practice with the web's biggest retailer, enabling customers to sign up for an email alert when the item in question becomes available. Unfortunately, this can lead to confusion for some consumers, who mistake these placeholders to mean the title has been officially announced.
Hoping to quell the web wildfire, the folks at PC World contacted Lucasfilm for comment early last week, and were told the following by company spokesperson John Singh:
"Lucasfilm Ltd. has no plans to release any of the Star Wars movies on Blu-ray or HD DVD. Listings on Amazon.com or any other Web site are purely speculative and erroneous."
It's worth noting that such a statement should not be much of a surprise (if still a disappointment) to long-time industry watchers. Lucas was one of the longest hold-outs on DVD despite that format's fast-growing mainstream acceptance, waiting over four years after launch before he allowed the first 'Star Wars' film to be released on disc (which turned out to be 'Episode I: The Phantom Menace' in September 2001).
Needless to say, we'll keep you posted on any future news of a 'Star Wars' release on high-def disc. Stay tuned...
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'Heroes' HD DVD Specs Revealed ;)
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Universal Studios Home Entertainment today unveiled the full specs for its upcoming HD DVD debut of 'Heroes: Season One' box set.
One of the most buzzed-about HD DVD releases of the summer, Universal announced earlier this month that it would debut the breakout series in high-def on August 28, day-and-date with the standard def release.
Now, they've issued a full press release detailing the contents of the set, which makes good on comments made earlier this year by the show's creators that it would contain a well of never-before-seen bonus content.
In addition to 1080p transfers and Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 surround (1.5mbps) soundtracks on every episode, the supplemental features are extensive. Goodies include the original 73-minute version of the show's pilot (with optional filmmaker commentary), five making-of featurettes, and no fewer than fifty deleted scenes.
Universal has set a $79.95 list price for the HD DVD version, about $20 more than the DVD.
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'Zodiac' to Stalk Blu-ray, HD DVD This July
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The hunt for the 'Zodiac' killer is coming to high-def, with Paramount Home Entertainment announcing a summer Blu-ray and HD DVD release for the David Fincher thriller.
Despite widespread critical acclaim, Fincher's meticulous serial killer docudrama failed to make much of a dent at the box office this past winter. However, all of the director's other efforts (including 'Se7en,' 'The Game' and 'Fight Club') have enjoyed a healthy afterlife on video, which would seem to bode well for 'Zodiac.'
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Magnolia Offically Announces 'The Host' for Blu-ray, HD DVD
Full details are in for the high-def release of the Asian horror hit 'The Host,' which Magnolia says it will unleash on Blu-ray and HD DVD this July.
Pre-release information had indicated only an HD DVD version of 'The Host,' but the studio has now officially announced that the title will make its debut on both next-gen formats simultaneous with standard-def DVD on July 24.
Tech specs are snot yet available, but the Blu-ray and HD DVD versions should see a wealth of matching supplements. Among the feastings are an audio commentary with the filmmakers, four featurettes, deleted scenes and a gag reel.
Magnolia has set a $34.95 list price for each version.
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Warner Preps More Classic Catalog for Blu-ray, HD DVD
Warner has announced plans to undergo major restorations of a number of its classic catalog titles, in anticipation of future next-gen release on Blu-ray and HD DVD.
According to the Hollywood Reporter, the studio has extensive plans in the works to create 4k restorations of some of its biggest vault titles. That's a quality four times greater than today's more commonly-used 2k resolution, which is standard for most catalog remasters.
Among the classics cited by Warner for pending re-issue include 'Bonnie & Clyde,' 'Cool Hand Luke' and the Dirty Harry films 'Sudden Impact' and 'Magnum Force.'
Also on the list is 'Blade Runner,' which Warner has already slated for high-def release this coming October in a new 'Essential 25th Anniversary Edition.'
"When you are doing restoration, you want to re-create a new element to support the title for years to come," Chris Cookson, president of Warner Bros. Technical Operations and chief technology officer of the Warner Bros. Entertainment Group, told the Hollywood Reporter.
"It is critical that you retain as much of the original information that the filmmaker created as possible. Unless you are willing to work at 4k, it is inevitable that you will lose a great deal of the information that was created and included in the (original) finished film," he added.
Aside from 'Blade Runner,' no formal announcement has been made of release dates for any of Warner's 4k remasters. However, the studio is eyeing an eventual cross-format bow on Blu-ray, HD DVD and standard-def DVD.
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Warner Says 'Departed' is Most Sold High-Def Title; Studio Trumpets Dual Support of HD DVD
Warner Home Entertainment today announced that their dual-format release of 'The Departed' is the highest selling high-def disc title, having moved over 100,000 units since its release in February of this year.
Those who keep track of such things may remember that back in March, Sony issued its own press release saying that the Blu-ray edition of 'Casino Royale' (released a full month after 'The Departed') had shipped 100,000 units. The key difference between the two announcements is that Sony's referred to the number of discs shipped, whereas Warner's refers to the number of discs sold.
The other key difference when comparing sales totals for 'The Departed' with any other release from a format-exclusive studio is that Warner's sales count for 'The Departed' includes sales of both the Blu-ray edition *and* the HD DVD edition, since Warner supports both high-def formats, a fact emphasized in the studio's press release, issued early Thursday morning.
"It's no accident that Warner is the first studio to reach this benchmark. We owe this success to a combination of great content and our decision to support both high definition formats... By releasing titles on HD DVD and Blu-ray, Warner Home Video not only increases our potential audience reach, but also offers consumers assurance that regardless of the format they choose they can enjoy our movies."
While Warner is not the only format-neutral studio, it has been the most aggressive, releasing more titles than any other studio, and even planning to release (and license to other studios) its own hybrid format (dubbed "Total Hi-Def") sometime later this year.
"High definition media represents an incredible opportunity for the industry, and we, as content providers, can help push mainstream adoption by producing in both formats and giving the consumer a simple choice," said Sanders. "At a time when the home video business is flat and high definition media presents our best hope for near term growth, it is unfortunate that we as an industry continue to perpetuate consumer confusion."
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Universal to Unleash 'Shaun of the Dead' on HD DVD
Universal Studios Home Entertainment has announced it will bring the British cult favorite 'Shaun of the Dead' to HD DVD on July 31.
The zombie spoof, conceived by 'Hot Fuzz' cohorts Simon Pegg and Edgar Wright, because a surprise sleeper in the U.S. during its original 2004 theatrical run. But it's since enjoyed an even greater afterlife on video, which should bode well for strong sales on HD DVD.
Universal will present the film in a 1080p/VC-1 transfer, along with a Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 surround track (at 1.5mbps).
Extras will mirror the standard-def DVD version, which includes a wealth of "Raw Meat" bonus features: audio commentary with the filmmakers, a director video diary, deleted scenes, outtakes, zombie trivia and more.
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HD DVD Group Responds to Erroneous Report of 2007 Release Count
Tongues have been wagging since late last week over a published report that the HD DVD camp was planning to release nearly 800 high-def titles between now and the end of the year, but it turns out that number was wrong.
First published in the trade publication Home Media Magazine, the erroneous report listed a month-by-month breakdown of title counts from May of this year through December that seemed to increase exponentially by the month, with a total of 500 titles planned for the fourth quarter of this year alone.
Contacted for comment, the HD DVD Promotional Group told us that the Home Media Magazine report was incorrect. The group says it "conservatively" projects a worldwide total of 600 HD DVD releases for the entirety of 2007, and that the error in the report appeared to stem from a slide in an HD DVD powerpoint presentation that listed the cumulative number of titles by month for 2006.
The Home Media Magazine report also quoted a Blu-ray spokesperson as saying that Blu-ray-affiliated studios will release a total of 43 titles in 2007. This number also appears to be incorrect, given that 160 titles have already been announced through September in the U.S. alone.
The HD DVD Promotional Group told us it was seeking a published correction to the article.
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Universal Gives 'Big Lebowski' HD DVD a Street Date Bump
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Universal Studios Home Entertainment has confirmed a street date shift for its HD DVD debut of 'The Big Lebowski,' which had been planned for next Tuesday, but will now street June 26.
The studio originally announced the Coen brothers comedy for a Memorial Day release back in March, and it seemed all systems go until earlier this week, when eagle-eyed early adopters took note that retailers had shifted their ship dates.
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This should make BD fan boys very happy: :D
High-Def Egg Hunt: Latest Blu-ray, HD DVD Easter Egg Finds
A series of hidden features on both 'Pirates of the Caribbean' Blu-ray releases topline our latest collection of easter egg reports.
While we always list easter eggs as they're discovered on our individual disc reviews, every once in a while we try to post an overview of the most recent easter egg reports in this space. 'Pirates of the Caribbean' takes center stage in today's round-up, boasting a total of five hidden features spotted (so far) on each of its two Blu-ray releases. Granted, none are exclusive to the high-def release, but we'll take our 'Pirates' booty any way we can get it.
Click the linked disc titles below to view detailed instructions on how to access the easter eggs listed. And remember, most easter eggs are reported by our readers, so if you spot an egg that isn't already published in our review for that title, please let us know, using our tips and submissions form -- if we publish your report, we'll credit you with the find. Happy hunting!
Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest (Blu-ray)
- "Catering" vignette
- "Coconut Man" featurette
- "Chopper the Dog" featurette
- "Prop Painter" featurette
- "The Twin Pirates" featurette
Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl (Blu-ray)
- Interview with Keith Richards
- 3D animatic
- Japanese Trailer
- "Treasure Cave Set" featurette
- Vintage radio ad for Disneyland "Pirates" ride
Nine Inch Nails Live: Beside You in Time (HD DVD)
- Alternate projection footage
Rocky Balboa (Blu-ray)
- "Fight Makeup Of 'Rocky Balboa'" Featurette
The Rundown (HD DVD)
- Interview with Rosario Dawson
- Two interviews with The Rock
- Two interviews with Sean William Scott
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As most news are involving both HD DVD & Blu-ray, hence I think it's more appropriate to combine the two format news into one thread.
Pls feel free to contribute any interesting/juicy news or hot gossips that you may come across. Thanks. ;)
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As most news are involving both HD DVD & Blu-ray, hence I think it's more appropriate to combine the two format news into one thread.
Pls feel free to contribute any interesting/juicy news or hot gossips that you may come across. Thanks. ;)
I really have a feeling someones going BI soon!!!!!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Yep, I'm having the same feeling too someone will... ::) :P
As John says, the Dark Force is strong.... ;)
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HD DVD to Get a Little 'Hot Fuzz' This July
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Confirming rumors that we first reported in early May, Universal has officially announced that the cult comedy 'Hot Fuzz' will hit HD DVD July 24.
The brainchild of 'Shaun of the Dead' co-creators Simon Pegg and Edgar Wright, 'Hot Fuzz' received strong critical notice and break-out box office during its limited theatrical run this spring. But as with 'Shaun,' the film should enjoy an even stronger audience when it hits HD DVD day-and-date with the standard DVD release.
Universal will grant the film the special edition treatment on high-def, with a 1080p/VC-1 transfer and Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 surround (1.5mbps) soundtrack.
Extras are set to include audio commentary with Pegg and Wright, two making-of featurettes, deleted scenes, outtakes and more.
Universal has set a $39.98 list price for the HD DVD/DVD combo release.
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'TMNT' Ninja Turtle Redux to Hit Blu-ray, HD DVD This August
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Get ready for the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to hit high-def this summer, when Warner Home Video debuts the big-screen redux 'TMNT' on Blu-ray and HD DVD.
An all-CGI animated retooling of the live-action 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle' trilogy that scored big in the late '80s, 'TMNT' opened to a strong $24 million take at the box office this past February, but quickly wilted with a worldwide gross of barely $85 million.
Warner hopes to reverse the Turtles' fortunes when it gives the film a simultaneous bow on Blu-ray, HD DVD and standard-def DVD on August 8.
No specs have yet been announced, but Warner is billing the releases as special editions, so we look forward to significant bonus materials.
List price will be $34.95 for the Blu-ray version, and $39.98 for the HD DVD, which will be a combo platter.
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Nice bro pchin.. ;D
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'Blades of Glory' to Hit High-Def Ice on Blu-ray, HD DVD
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The comedy blockbuster 'Blades of Glory' will hit high-def this August on Blu-ray and HD DVD, Paramount Home Entertainment announced today.
The latest from funnymen Will Ferrell and Jon Heder, 'Blades of Glory' scored big at the box office this past winter, earning over $120 million in laughs.
Paramount is giving the smash hit the special edition treatment on disc, when it hits Blu-ray, HD DVD and standard DVD simultaneously on August 28.
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'Erin Brockovich,' 'Meet the Fockers' Lead Universal August HD DVD Catalog Slate
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Universal Studios Home Entertainment is adding a quartet of new catalog faves to its growing HD DVD library this August, including the blockbuster hits 'Erin Brockovich' and 'Meet the Fockers'
The four-strong line-up is due August 14, and includes Julia Roberts Oscar-winning turn in 'Erin Brockovich,' the smash comedy sequel 'Meet the Fockers,' the Bruce Willis action thriller 'Mercury Rising,' and the fantasy 'What Dreams May Come.'
Universal will offer each title in 1080p/VC-1 video and Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 surround (1.5mpbs).
Extras will match the standard-def versions, with each title enjoying a host of bonus features including audio commentary, multiple featurettes and more.
Universal has set a $29.98 list price for each title.
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Sony to Debut 'Arlington Road,' 'Final Fantasy' on Blu-ray this August
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced its next wave of Blu-ray catalog releases due August 7, led by the hit thriller 'Arlington Road' and 'Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within'
A sleeper hit in theaters and a big seller on DVD, 'Arlington Road' will see a streamlined Blu-ray release in terms of extras, featuring only a lone making-of featurette but none of the audio commentaries and other bonus material that graced the standard-def version.
'Final Fantasy,' however, will come loaded with supplements. Among the copious bonus materials bound for Blu-ray are multiple audio commentaries, an interactive documentary, additional featurettes, deleted footage, "joke" outtakes, and more.
Both titles will receive full 1080p transfers and uncompressed PCM 5.1 surround tracks (48kHz/16-bit/4.6mbps).
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yipee!!! advent children in HD ;D
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Universal to Bring 'Elizabeth' to HD DVD this Fall
Make way for a new queen on high-def, when Universal Studios Home Entertainment debuts the acclaimed epic 'Elizabeth' on September 18.
Featuring an Oscar-nominated performance by Cate Blanchett, 'Elizabeth's HD DVD debut is timed to coincide with the upcoming theatrical release of the long-awaited sequel, also due this September.
No supplemental details have yet been released by Universal for the title, though tech specs include the studio's usual 1080p/VC-1 transfer and Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 surround track (1.5mbps).
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battle rages on
http://www.smarthousenews.com.au/Home_Cinema/HDTV?Article=/Home%20Cinema/HDTV/P9A9N8D8
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Looks like in Australia, HD DVD is still leading. :)
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'Lost' to Make Blu-ray Debut This December
Bringing one of TV's biggest hits to high-def, Disney Home Entertainment has announced it will debut 'Lost: The Complete Third Season' on Blu-ray this December.
According to a rundown by The Hollywood Reporter of new TV-on-DVD releases due in late-2007, the third season of ABC's high-rated 'Lost' will make its next-gen bow on December 11, simultaneous with the standard-def DVD version.
Among the extensive bonus features on the seven-disc set are a documentary chronicling twenty-four hours in the production of the show, a one-on-one interview with star Matthew Fox, a selection of never-before-seen flashbacks, additional behind-the-scenes looks at ten episodes, audio commentaries, deleted scenes, bloopers and more.
No tech specs nor pricing details are yet available for the Blu-ray version of 'Lost: The Complete Third Season,' as Disney has not yet issued any sort of official press release or announcement for the set. We'll certainly keep you posted as soon as further details are confirmed.
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Lionsgate Brings Unrated 'Van Wilder' to Blu-ray This Summer
Lionsgate Home Entertainment has announced it will bring the collegiate comedy 'Van Wilder' to Blu-ray this July in a spicy new Unrated version.
Featuring additional footage too hot for theaters, Lionsgate will debut the National Lampoon flick in a feature-laden Blu-ray special edition on August 21.
Among the extensive extras is an "Idiot Kommentary," multiple featurettes, deleted scenes, bloopers, an interactive quiz, music video and more.
Tech specs are also impressive, with a 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer and no less than a full-blown uncompressed PCM 7.1 surround track (an optional Dolby Digital Surround EX mix will also be included).
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Paramount Bumps 'Zodiac' Blu-ray, HD DVD Release Date
Paramount Home Entertainment has confirmed a street date shift for its Blu-ray and HD DVD debuts of 'Zodiac,' bumping the film from its previously scheduled July 24 bow to early fall.
The studio originally announced the David Fincher thriller for a next-gen debut day-and-date with the standard-def DVD on July 24th, but while plans for the DVD remain unchanged, Paramount now says the Blu-ray and HD DVD versions won't hit shelves until September 18.
As Paramount has not yet issued any specs for any of the disc releases of 'Zodiac,' it is too soon to tell whether different specs or features may be included on the high-def editions.
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'Dawn of the Dead,' 'Notting Hill' Lead Universal Late August HD DVD Wave
Universal Studios Home Entertainment has added two more catalog titles to its ever-expanding next-gen library, bringing 'Notting Hill' and the 2004 remake of 'Dawn of the Dead' to HD DVD late this summer.
Both titles are set to debut on August 28, in full-featured special editions that will mirror the supplements found on their standard-def DVD counterparts. 'Dawn of the Dead' will also appear in its "Unrated Director's Cut" version, featuring nine minutes of additional footage too intense for theaters.
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'Dawn of the Dead,' 'Notting Hill' Lead Universal Late August HD DVD Wave
Universal Studios Home Entertainment has added two more catalog titles to its ever-expanding next-gen library, bringing 'Notting Hill' and the 2004 remake of 'Dawn of the Dead' to HD DVD late this summer.
Both titles are set to debut on August 28, in full-featured special editions that will mirror the supplements found on their standard-def DVD counterparts. 'Dawn of the Dead' will also appear in its "Unrated Director's Cut" version, featuring nine minutes of additional footage too intense for theaters.
Excellent..for sure im getting Notting Hill for my wife. This is our most awaited hddvd so far..
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Warner to Rock Blu-ray, HD DVD with 'Purple Rain,' 'Out for Justice'
Warner Home Video has officially announced catalog faves 'Purple Rain' and 'Out for Justice' will both Blu-ray and HD DVD this July.
Though a rather bizarre pairing of rock legend Prince and action-meister Steven Seagal, Warner says both titles will debut on July 24.
The Blu-ray and HD DVD versions of each will feature identical specs and extras, including 1080p/VC-1 transfers and Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround tracks (at 640kbps).
Mirroring its standard-def DVD counterpart, 'Out for Justice' will include only the film's theatrical trailer, while 'Purple Rain' will be packed with three retrospective featurettes, eight music videos and classic MTV coverage of the movie's 1984 premiere party.
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Universal Bumps 'Breach' HD DVD By a Week
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Universal Studios Home Entertainment has confirmed a one-week street date bump for the HD DVD/DVD combo of 'Breach,' which had originally been pegged for release this coming Tuesday.
The studio had scheduled the acclaimed Ryan Phillippe-Chris Cooper thriller for a June 5 HD DVD arrival, and the title seemed to be on track for release until some of our eagle-eyed readers took note that retailers had begun to shift their ship dates by a week.
We contacted Universal for comment, and they confirmed that 'Breach' is now scheduled to streetJune 12. The studio added that specs will remain unchanged, as will the combo disc's $39.98 list price.
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'Pirates' Outsells 'Matrix' in Blu-ray, HD DVD Showdown
Last week's sales estimates are in, and in terms of sheer unit sales, Disney's Blu-ray-only release of the first two "Pirates of the Caribbean" flicks handily beat Warner's HD DVD-only release of the two "Matrix" box sets.
According to market research estimates from Home Media Magazine, the two "Pirates" films sold a combined total of a little less than 47,000 units, while the "Matrix" sets sold about 13,900 units.
Since the "Matrix" sets sold at an cost of nearly three times that of the "Pirates" flicks, there's slighly more parity in terms of gross sales, but even there (as Blu-ray supporters have been quick to point out), "Pirates" gets the edge.
In comments first published in The Hollywood Reporter, Bob Chapek, worldwide president of Buena Vista Home Entertainment, called the week's win by "Pirates" a "strong and significant trend toward consumer preference for the Blu-ray Disc format."
"We are thrilled by the critical and industry response to 'Pirates' on Blu-ray disc," Chapek said. "But more importantly, the consumer has spoken loud and clear. This is only the beginning, but it was certainly a significant and explosive indicator of things to come."
Update (6/1/07, 5:27PM ET):
Several readers have written in to complain that comparing sales data for the 'Matrix' box sets to the two individual 'POTC' releases is a case of apples and oranges. They argue that the 'Pirates' Blu-ray discs benefited from a wave of pre-release publicity for the the third film in the series along with some bundled sales incentives at big box retailers, while the Matrix box set was dragged down by the fact that many fans already own the original 'Matrix' on DVD, and had little interest in the second and third installments of the series, making the higher pricepoint for the two boxsets a particularly tough sell.
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'Lost' to Make Blu-ray Debut This December
Bringing one of TV's biggest hits to high-def, Disney Home Entertainment has announced it will debut 'Lost: The Complete Third Season' on Blu-ray this December.
According to a rundown by The Hollywood Reporter of new TV-on-DVD releases due in late-2007, the third season of ABC's high-rated 'Lost' will make its next-gen bow on December 11, simultaneous with the standard-def DVD version.
Among the extensive bonus features on the seven-disc set are a documentary chronicling twenty-four hours in the production of the show, a one-on-one interview with star Matthew Fox, a selection of never-before-seen flashbacks, additional behind-the-scenes looks at ten episodes, audio commentaries, deleted scenes, bloopers and more.
No tech specs nor pricing details are yet available for the Blu-ray version of 'Lost: The Complete Third Season,' as Disney has not yet issued any sort of official press release or announcement for the set. We'll certainly keep you posted as soon as further details are confirmed.
[/quote
I think Disney said no at the moment
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Disney/Disney_Says_No_to_Lost,_Badder_Santa_on_Blu-ray/671
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Warner to Give 'Cruising' a High-Def Makeover
Continuing their support of revamped director's cuts on home video, Warner premiered a new restored version of William Friedkin's highly controversial 1980 thriller 'Cruising' at last week's Cannes film festival, with an eye to an eventual next-gen release.
Still one of the most notorious films of its era, 'Cruising' generated reams of controversy upon release for its tale of cop Al Pacino descending into the explicit S&M netherworld of gay culture to catch a serial killer. 'Cruising' underwent numerous cuts to achieve an R-rating from the MPAA at the time of its theatrical release (to the point of near-incomprehensibility for many), and ever since has only been available in this botched form. The film also remains, to this day, unreleased on DVD.
But Friedkin debuted a brand-new, studio-restored version of 'Cruising' at Cannes, in a projected HD version from a freshly-minted high-definition master. The 103-minute cut features a never-before-seen opening sequence, more graphic scenes and other footage previously left on the cutting room floor.
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'Purple Rain' Gets Dual Blu-ray, HD DVD Dolby TrueHD Release
(http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/images/post/2/2738/original.jpeg)
Editor's Note: An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated that 'Purple Rain' will be Warner's first Blu-ray title to be issued with Dolby TrueHD audio. In fact, the first Warner/TrueHD title was last month's 'Letters from Iwo Jima.' We regret the error.
Audiophiles will be pleased to learn that according to updated specs for the July 24 next-gen release of 'Purple Rain,' the title is the latest in a growing number of cross-format Warner releases to include Dolby TrueHD audio on both Blu-ray and HD DVD.
Despite Warner Home Video's ongoing format-agnostic approach to the next-gen war, true parity in high-resolution audio specs has been hard to come by on the studio's cross-format releases. Numerous Warner HD DVD titles have enjoyed full-blown Dolby TrueHD 5.1 audio, but their Blu-ray counterparts have often suffered by comparison with only standard Dolby tracks.
Recently, the studio had begun to bridge this gap by offering uncompressed PCM audio on the Blu-ray versions of some of its high-profile titles, including the recent top-seller 'The Departed,' and today's debut of 'Blood Diamond.'
But the real holy grail for high-res audiophiles is Dolby TrueHD. Warner finally issued its first TrueHD Blu-ray title last month ('Letters from Iwo Jima'), and today it was revealed that the July 24 debut of 'Purple Rain' will be the second, followed by the cross-format bow for '300,' only a week later.
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'Planet Earth' Generates Record HD DVD, Blu-ray Sales Revenue
Proving once again that disc sales can be measured on any number of levels, Warner Home Video has announced that the dual-format release of 'Planet Earth: The Complete Series' is the biggest high-def disc moneymaker yet.
According to figures provided by Warner, which distributed the British series in the U.S. for BBC Video, the box set has generated $3.2 million in consumer spending since its release on Blu-ray and HD DVD on April 24.
The Hollywood Reporter estimates that that number translates to about 42,000 units -- well below the record-breaking 100,000 units sold of 'The Departed,' but at roughly $70 a pop, Warner says the BBC series still tops the high-def charts from a revenue perspective. (The company says 'The Departed' has thus far generated 2.8 million in consumer spending.)
Cue the typically boastful exec quote: "The consumer response to 'Planet Earth: The Complete Series' on both high-definition formats has been absolutely incredible, and we are truly proud to be a part of it," said Warner Home Video president Ron Sanders. "This landmark series was made for high definition, and 'Planet Earth' will be an iconic staple in our natural-history documentary library for a very long time."
The four-disc 'Planet Earth' box set (which famously broke high-def sales records upon its original release at Amazon.com) features the unedited 8+ hour British version of the landmark nature series, narrated by David Attenborough. A recut U.S. version of the series premiered earlier this year on the Discovery Channel, with actress Sigorney Weaver narrating.
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Sony Offers "Third Disc Free" Blu-ray Promotion
As part of a unique online promotion, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment this week began offering a "third disc free" deal at participating online retailers, including Amazon.com.
For a limited time, consumers who purchase three Sony Blu-ray discs (from a selection of 34 total discs) will receive the third disc free. While the deal doesn't apply to all Sony Blu-ray discs, several format favorites make an appearance, including 'Casino Royale' and 'Black Hawk Down.'
The deal was first spotted at Amazon.com, but has since been reported at DVD Empire, as well. The lists on both sites are identical, although the selection process is slightly different.
At DVD Empire, consumers must choose their three discs from one of two lists -- one is a collection of discs priced at $20.84, while the other is collection of discs priced at $28.04.
At Amazon, consumers can choose from the entire list of 34 titles, which includes a mix of movies priced at $19.99 and $26.95. If the consumer chooses three discs at $26.95, they will receive a credit of $26.95 at checkout. If they choose three discs at $19.95 or a combination of discs at both price levels, they will receive a credit of $19.95 at checkout.
Only two days old, Sony's Blu-ray promo already seems to be making an impact on Amazon's real-time sales ranks. As of Wednesday night, a whopping eight Blu-ray titles appeared on Amazon's top 100 best selling DVDs list (vs only one title on the HD DVD side).
No word yet on how long this promotion will last
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The BD promo deal is even sweeter for those who are entittled to the 10% discount! :)
Guess I might take advantage of the promo as well in case I do become a Neutral soon.... ;D
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Onkyo coming with hddvd player
http://www.dvdtown.com/news/onkyo-will-be-ready-with-an-hd-dvd-player-this-fall/4518
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First Multichannel HD DVD Audio Title Debuts with 'Uncommon Bach'
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In what is being billed as the world's first "3-Dimensional Sound Reality" high-def music experience, Surround Records will debut the audio-only HD DVD release 'Uncommon Bach' on June 15.
Created by producer Alexander Goldberg Jero, 'Uncommon Bach' presents the music of the legendary composer using "virtual instruments and modern synthesis," in a newly-remixed version that Surround Records is dubbing "3-Dimensional Sound Reality."
According to the company's press materials, the process promises a "clarity and sonic perception of these classical works [that] will open a new vision of the original masterpieces."
'Uncommon Bach' is notable as being the first audio-only high-def release to hit the U.S. Though multichannel audio releases (sans any significant video material) are fairly common on standard-def DVD, they have not yet made any inroads on the HD DVD or Blu-ray formats.
Surround Records has set a June 15 release date for the 57-minute 'Uncommon Bach.'
Tech specs include DTS-HD Master Lossless Audio and standard DTS 5.1 surround options. (Note also that 'Uncommon Bach' is compatible only with HD DVD players with HDMI or optical outputs.)
No further details are available on what, if any video and/or still materials will accompany the audio portion of 'Uncommon Bach.' There also appears to be no additional bonus features or other supplementary material included.
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BBC Video Plans 'Galapagos' and ' Room with a View' for Blu-ray, HD DVD
Following the extraordinary success of 'Planet Earth,' BBC Video is apparently planning to bring its next two high-def releases, 'Galapagos' and 'A Room with a View' to Blu-ray and HD DVD this fall.
Defying all projections, 'Planet Earth' has rapidly become not only both the best-selling documentary and box set title on both next-gen formats, but also the top revenue-generating high-def disc release to date.
While future BBC Video releases are not likely scale such sales heights, the company (distributed through Warner Home Video) is certainly off to a great start. And now wisely, as part of the press coverage surrounding the unprecedented success of 'Planet Earth,' the distributor is taking the opportunity to preview their next two next-gen titles.
Though no dates have been set nor any tech specs revealed, according to an article in yesterday's Hollywood Reporter, BBC Video's next high-def releases this fall will be another award-winning documentary, 'Galapagos,' as well as the highly-acclaimed, Oscar-decorated 'A Room with a View.'
Given the high-quality of 'Planet Earth,' we're certainly excited to see what BBC Video has in store next for early adopters. We'll keep you posted as soon as more details on both releases are officially announced.
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Disney to 'Remember the Titans' on Blu-ray this September
Walt Disney Home Entertainment has announced it will debut the Denzel Washington hit 'Remember the Titans' on Blu-ray this coming September 4.
Full specs are not yet available for the $100 million-plus grossing smash, although Disney has said it will deliver its usual 1080p transfer and uncompressed PCM 5.1 surround track for 'Titans.'
Among the extras are multiple making-of featurettes and deleted scenes, plus more to be announced when the full press release for 'Titans' is unveiled in the coming days.
This Blu-ray edition is also expected to include the 133-minute "Director's Cut' version of the film, which first saw release on standard-def DVD in October of 2006.
Retail price is set at a $34.95 MSRP.
'Remember the Titans' joins an ever-growing number of other similar-themed inspirational sports dramas that have already debuted on Blu-ray from Disney, including 'Invincible,' 'Glory Road' and 'Goal! The Dream Begins.'
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Warner to Serve Up 'Deliverance' on Blu-ray, HD DVD This September
Warner Home Video has announced the latest addition to its next-gen library of classic catalog remasters with the September 18 HD DVD and Blu-ray debut of 'Deliverance.'
The John Boorman action-adventure was one of 1973's biggest hits, earning strong box office, critical acclaim and multiple Oscar nominations. Starring Jon Voight and Burt Reynolds as city dwellers who make a risky (and terror-inducing) rafting trip into the backwoods, the film remains as famous as it is infamous, forever etching the phrase "squeal like a pig!" into the cultural vocabulary.
Warner has remastered the film in a new 1080p master for Blu-ray and HD DVD release, and also plans to offer up new Dolby 5.1 surround remixes (640kbps).
Extras will include a new audio commentary with Boorman, a four-part retrospective documentary, plus a vintage featurette and the film's theatrical trailer.
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Toshiba lowers sales target for HD DVD players
Washington, D.C. (June 12, 2007) -- Toshiba today lowered the sales forecast on its High-Definition DVD players.That's according to an article from Reuters.
Toshiba says it will now sell about one million HD DVD players in North America by year's end, which is 44 percent less than its previous estimate of 1.8 million.
The revised forecast comes a day after Toshiba issued a press release saying its HD DVD players are outselling rival Blu-ray. The company said that 60 percent of all high-def DVD players sold are HD DVD players.
Toshiba, the leading backer of the HD DVD format, says 150,000 HD DVD players have been sold to date. But the company is not including sales of Sony's PlayStation 3, which has a Blu-ray player inside. Sony says more than one million PS3 consoles have been sold.
Toshiba also said Tuesday that worldwide sales of HD DVD players will not meet earlier expectations this year.
"Obviously we are going to have to lower our previous global estimate," Toshiba's Yoshihide Fujii told reporters on Tuesday, according to Reuters.
The company previously estimated that it would sell three million HD DVD players and recorders worldwide in the current fiscal year.
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Sony May Increase U.S. Shipments of Blu-Ray by Sixfold in 2007
Washington, D.C. (June 12, 2007) -- Sony said yesterday that it might increase shipments of Blu-ray players in the U.S. by 600 percent this year.
That's according to an article from Bloomberg News.
The news service reports that Sony believes that Blu-ray sales will rise dramatically this year due to the exclusive release of several blockbuster films on the high-def DVD format.
Blu-ray and rival HD DVD, which is backed by Toshiba, are battling for the new high-def DVD audience. But four of the eight major film studios are backing Blu-ray exclusively with only one (Universal) supporting HD DVD exclusively.
Sony shipped less than 100,000 Blu-ray players in the U.S. last year, but could ship up to 600,000 in 2007, according to Randy Waynick, a company senior vice president.
`"You'll see growth in multiples of five or six times," Waynick said, according to Bloomberg.
He said actual shipments will depend on how competitive Blu-ray becomes. But Waynick added that the upcoming release of several blockbuster films on Blu-ray should drive sales. He said 14 or 15 of the top 20 films this year will be Blu-ray exclusives.
"The movies are very compelling," Waynick said, according to Bloomberg.
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'Top Gun,' 'Jack Ryan Collection' Lead Paramount Fall Blu-ray, HD DVD Action Wave
Injecting another shot of testosterone into the high-def format war, Paramount Home Entertainment will release the catalog classics 'Top Gun' and 'The Jack Ryan Collection' on Blu-ray and HD DVD this fall.
Bringing five of their most requested action titles to high-def, Paramount will rev up their fall next-gen schedule with two major releases.
Hitting stores first on September 25 is the four-title 'Jack Ryan Collection.' The box set will include all of the Tom Clancy-inspired blockbusters to feature the Jack Ryan character, including 'The Hunt for Red October,' 'Patriot Games,' 'Clear and Present Danger' and 'The Sum of All Fears.'
That release will be followed on October 2 by the Tom Cruise mega-hit, 'Top Gun.'
Paramount has not yet announced specs nor supplement information for either of the action releases, though further details are expected shortly.
List price will be $29.95 for 'Top Gun,' and $99.95 for the 'Jack Ryan Collection.'
Note that similar to the Paramount's hit 'Ultimate Missions Collection' released late last year, the studio is not yet announcing any stand-alone editions of the Jack Ryan films. However, if the studio's history with 'Ultimate Missions' is any indication, each of the Jack Ryan titles seem likely to be made available individually at a future date.
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Paramount's 'Disturbia' Brewing on HD DVD, Blu-ray This Summer
Paramount Home Entertainment has announced it will bring the sleeper hit 'Disturbia' to Blu-ray and HD DVD this August.
A loose teen remake of Alfred Hitchcock's classic 'Rear Window,' 'Disturbia' stars current "It" boy (and future young Indiana Jones) Shia LeBouf. The film surprised industry observers when it topped the spring box office for three consecutive weeks, and has currently grossed over $80 million at the domestic box office.
Paramount has not yet announced specs for the title, but it will debut the sleeper on Blu-ray and HD DVD simultaneous with the standard-def DVD. The street date has been set for August 7. 2007.
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Amazon Drops Prices on Select Blu-ray, HD DVD Discs to 42 Percent Off List
High-def disc fans are getting another pricebreak this week from Amazon.com, with the retailer dropping the price of at least 40 discs up to 42% below retail.
Unlike last week's "third disc free" Sony-only promo, this latest deal includes discs from a number of studios across both formats, including Disney, Fox, Paramount, Sony, and The Weinstein Co.
http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Amazon/High-Def_Retailing/Amazon_Drops_Prices_on_Select_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD_Discs_to_42_Percent_Off_List/695
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'Pirates' Outsells 'Matrix' in Blu-ray, HD DVD Showdown
Last week's sales estimates are in, and in terms of sheer unit sales, Disney's Blu-ray-only release of the first two "Pirates of the Caribbean" flicks handily beat Warner's HD DVD-only release of the two "Matrix" box sets.
According to market research estimates from Home Media Magazine, the two "Pirates" films sold a combined total of a little less than 47,000 units, while the "Matrix" sets sold about 13,900 units.
Since the "Matrix" sets sold at an cost of nearly three times that of the "Pirates" flicks, there's slighly more parity in terms of gross sales, but even there (as Blu-ray supporters have been quick to point out), "Pirates" gets the edge.
In comments first published in The Hollywood Reporter, Bob Chapek, worldwide president of Buena Vista Home Entertainment, called the week's win by "Pirates" a "strong and significant trend toward consumer preference for the Blu-ray Disc format."
"We are thrilled by the critical and industry response to 'Pirates' on Blu-ray disc," Chapek said. "But more importantly, the consumer has spoken loud and clear. This is only the beginning, but it was certainly a significant and explosive indicator of things to come."
Update (6/1/07, 5:27PM ET):
Several readers have written in to complain that comparing sales data for the 'Matrix' box sets to the two individual 'POTC' releases is a case of apples and oranges. They argue that the 'Pirates' Blu-ray discs benefited from a wave of pre-release publicity for the the third film in the series along with some bundled sales incentives at big box retailers, while the Matrix box set was dragged down by the fact that many fans already own the original 'Matrix' on DVD, and had little interest in the second and third installments of the series, making the higher pricepoint for the two boxsets a particularly tough sell.
To me both are disappointing figures. Both have top notch PQ, and the sound for pirates is said to be top notch. Also Reviews are excellent to promote these movies in advance and they can come out with these figures. :'(
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Toshiba lowers sales target for HD DVD players
Washington, D.C. (June 12, 2007) -- Toshiba today lowered the sales forecast on its High-Definition DVD players.That's according to an article from Reuters.
Toshiba says it will now sell about one million HD DVD players in North America by year's end, which is 44 percent less than its previous estimate of 1.8 million.
The revised forecast comes a day after Toshiba issued a press release saying its HD DVD players are outselling rival Blu-ray. The company said that 60 percent of all high-def DVD players sold are HD DVD players.
Toshiba, the leading backer of the HD DVD format, says 150,000 HD DVD players have been sold to date. But the company is not including sales of Sony's PlayStation 3, which has a Blu-ray player inside. Sony says more than one million PS3 consoles have been sold.
Toshiba also said Tuesday that worldwide sales of HD DVD players will not meet earlier expectations this year.
"Obviously we are going to have to lower our previous global estimate," Toshiba's Yoshihide Fujii told reporters on Tuesday, according to Reuters.
The company previously estimated that it would sell three million HD DVD players and recorders worldwide in the current fiscal year.
Yup 1.8 million for a target is crazy in the first place.
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Amazon Drops Prices on Select Blu-ray, HD DVD Discs to 42 Percent Off List
High-def disc fans are getting another pricebreak this week from Amazon.com, with the retailer dropping the price of at least 40 discs up to 42% below retail.
Unlike last week's "third disc free" Sony-only promo, this latest deal includes discs from a number of studios across both formats, including Disney, Fox, Paramount, Sony, and The Weinstein Co.
Included among the discounted Blu-ray discs:
(click linked titles to buy from Amazon)
Aeon Flux $17.99 (40% off)
Behind Enemy Lines $22.99 (42% off)
Black Rain (Special Collector's Edition) $17.99 (40% off)
Deja Vu $21.49 (39% off)
Fantastic Four $22.99 (42% off)
Flight of the Phoenix $22.99 (42% off)
Flyboys $22.99 (42% off)
Hart's War $22.99 (42% off)
Hoosiers $22.99 (42% off)
King Arthur (Director's Cut) $16.99 (43% off)
Kingdom of Heaven (Director's Cut) $22.99 (42% off)
Kiss of the Dragon $22.99 (42% off)
The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen $22.99 (42% off)
The Omen $22.99 (42% off)
Payback: Straight Up - The Director's Cut $17.99 (40% off)
The Prestige $21.49 (39% off)
The Queen $21.49 (39% off)
Rocky $22.99 (42% off)
Species $16.99 (41% off)
Speed $22.99 (42% off)
The Terminator $16.99 (43% off)
The Transporter $22.99 (42% off)
The Usual Suspects $22.99 (42% off)
We Were Soldiers $17.99 (40% off)
Windtalkers $22.99 (42% off)
X-Men 3 - The Last Stand $22.99 (42% off)
Included among the discounted HD DVD discs:
Aeon Flux $17.99 (40% off)
Black Rain (Special Collector's Edition) $17.99 (40% off)
Clerks II $17.99 (40% off)
Derailed (Unrated) $17.99 (40% off)
Feast (Unrated) $17.99 (40% off)
The Italian Job $19.99 (40% off)
Lucky Number Slevin $17.99 (40% off)
The Matador $17.99 (40% off)
Payback: Straight Up - The Director's Cut $17.99 (40% off)
Pulse $17.99 (40% off)
Scary Movie 4 $17.99 (40% off)
School for Scoundrels $17.99 (40% off)
We Were Soldiers $17.99 (40% off)
Wolf Creek $17.99 (40% off)
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New Disc Bundle Offered For Xbox 360 HD DVD Add-On
The latest in a seemingly endless parade of discounts and promos for HD DVD and Blu-ray over the past few weeks, both Best Buy and Circuit City are offering a new free disc bundle with purchase of the Xbox 360 HD DVD player add-on.
Now through June 16th, consumers who buy Microsoft's add-on player at either big box retailer will receive not only the free 'King Kong' HD DVD (which has long come bundled with the player), but also an additional two free HD DVD discs.
The two deals seem to differ slightly in terms of the two additional free HD DVDs: while Circuit City is allowing consumers to choose any two HD DVDs up to a $59.98 value, it appears that Best Buy has pre-selected 'The Bourne Supremacy' and 'Breach' as their two additional discs, at least for online sales.
Both retailers are selling the Xbox 360 HD DVD add-on for its list price of $199.99.
This bundle deal is the latest in a series of price cuts and promotions to hit HD DVD and Blu-ray in the weeks leading up to Father's Day. On the hardware side, Toshiba and Sony have both dropped prices for their respective next-gen disc players, with Sony launching its BDP-S300 Blu-ray player at a record-low $499, and Toshiba offering a limited time $100 rebate program for its line of HD DVD players. On the software side, price cuts on high-def discs have been spotted at various retailers, including (most recently) Amazon.com, which is offering up to 42% off list price for a selection of HD DVD and Blu-ray titles.
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Warner Introduces First High-Def "Best Of" Collections for Blu-ray, HD DVD
In a high-def first, Warner Home Video is planning to release three new "Best Of" collections bundling over a dozen of its top Blu-ray and HD DVD releases.
On September 18, the studio will release three separate volumes on both formats, containing four top titles apiece.
"The Best of Blu-ray Vol. 1" and "The Best of HD DVD Vol. 1" will include: 'Lethal Weapon,' 'The Road Warrior,' 'Swordfish' and 'Training Day.'
"The Best of Blu-ray Vol. 2' and 'The Best of HD DVD Vol. 2" will include: 'The Last Samurai,' 'Phantom of the Opera' and 'Unforgiven.' Note that the fourth title in the Blu-ray set is 'The Fugitive,' while the HD DVD box includes 'Troy,' instead.
"The Best of Blu-ray Vol. 3' and 'The Best of HD DVD Vol. 3' include: 'Blazing Saddles,' 'The Departed,' 'Goodfellas' and 'Superman: The Movie.'
Each box will carry an MSRP of $84.99 on both formats, a savings of up to $55 compared to the combined list prices of each title, if bought separately. (Amazon is already taking pre-orders for all six box sets at $58.95)
Note that none of the box sets include any additional bonus features or different specs from those on the stand-alone releases. Box art for each individual title as also remains the same.
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Paramount Bumps 'Face/Off' Blu-ray, HD DVD; 2-Disc Special Edition Now Expected
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Paramount Home Entertainment has announced a new street date for the Blu-ray and HD DVD debut of 'Face/Off,' and has revealed an apparent expansion of its specs.
The hit action-thriller, starring John Travolta and Nicolas Cage as enemies who "body switch" in a game of hi-tech cat-and-mouse, was originally announced for high-def release on August 28th.
Paramount has now bumped the release of both the Blu-ray and HD DVD versions back until September 11.
While full specs have yet to be released, Paramount has sent along the box art for both next-gen editions, which indicates a two-disc special edition for each. So we can likely look forward to plenty of fresh bonus features to highlight the release.
Retail price remains $29.95 for both versions.
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Get Ready to 'Meet the Robinsons' on Blu-ray this October
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Walt Disney Home Entertainment has announced it will bring the animated hit 'Meet the Robinsons' to Blu-ray day-and-date with the DVD release this fall.
Scoring a solid $150 million at the worldwide box office earlier this year, Disney will debut the CGI fantasy on Blu-ray and standard DVD this October 23.
Tech specs include Disney's standard 1080p transfer and uncompressed PCM 5.1 surround track (48kHz/24-bit/6.9mbps).
Among the many extras are a filmmaker commentary, two featurettes, deleted scenes and music videos.
Disney will also include two additional Blu-ray exclusives, among them extra deleted scenes and the "Bowler Hat!" interactive game.
Retail will list for $34.99.
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Looking forward to Face-Off! :D
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Blockbuster to carry Blu-Ray from now on...
http://avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=862638
LOS ANGELES - Blockbuster Inc. will rent high-definition DVDs only in the Blu-ray format in 1,450 stores when it expands its high-def offerings next month, dealing a major blow to the rival HD DVD format.
The move, being announced Monday, could be the first step in resolving a format war that has kept confused consumers from rushing to buy new DVD players until they can determine which format will dominate the market.
Blockbuster has been renting both Blu-ray and HD DVD titles in 250 stores since late last year and found that consumers were choosing Blu-ray titles more than 70 percent of the time.
"The consumers are sending us a message. I can't ignore what I'm seeing," Matthew Smith, senior vice president of merchandising at Blockbuster, told The Associated Press.
Blockbuster will continue to rent HD DVD titles in the original 250 locations and online, the Dallas-based company said.
The decision was helped in large part by the lopsided availability of titles in Blu-ray, Smith said. All major studios except one are releasing films in Blu-ray, with several, including The Walt Disney Co., releasing exclusively in Blu-ray. Only Universal Studios, which is owned by General Electric Co., exclusively supports HD DVD.
Warner Bros., a unit of Time Warner Inc., and Paramount Pictures, which is owned by Viacom Inc., release films in both formats.
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Definitely a very BIG blow to HD DVD. I can't help but feeling HD DVD is heading down the slope... :(
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HD DVD reply to Blockbuster's Blu-ray only decision
The HD DVD Promotional Group called Blockbuster's decision "shortsighted," and attributed Blu-ray's performance at Blockbuster to that format's stronger release slate in the first three months of 2007.
"I think trying to make a format decision using such a short time period is really not measuring what the consumer is saying," said Ken Graffeo, co-president of the group.
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ahhh lets end this already...one format please!!!!
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'Harry Potter,' 'Ocean's Eleven,' Direct-to-Disc Premieres Highlight Upcoming Warner High-Def Release Plans
(http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/images/post/0/61/original.jpeg)
Warner Home Video has an impressive roster of top catalog releases ready for high-def this fall, with the studio reportedly prepping next-gen versions of its blockbuster 'Harry Potter' and 'Ocean's Eleven' series on Blu-ray and HD DVD.
At least, that's according to a new article over at Video Business focusing on the diverse high-def catalog plans of the major studios. The story offers some sizable hints that a number of previously-unannounced major titles are finally on the docket for high-def, as both Blu-ray and HD DVD continue to seek mainstream consumer acceptance.
Among the major titles Video Business is predicting will finally hit next-gen by the end of the year are two blockbuster franchises from Warner. The studio is reported to be planning a roll-out of at least some (if not all five) of the 'Harry Potter' series, as well as all three 'Ocean's Eleven' flicks.
Look for the 'Potter' titles to be released on high-def by the end of 2007, timed to the home video bow of next month's theatrical premiere 'Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.'
Also on tap are 'Ocean's Eleven' and 'Ocean's Twelve,' which should arrive with the late fall video debut of the 'Ocean's Thirteen.' (The latest -- and supposedly -- last in Steven Soderbergh's star-studded Vegas caper series opened at No. 1 at the domestic box office last weekend.)
In addition, Warner Home Video plans to bow some of the first made-for-DVD titles on either high-def format. Due for release in early 2008 are the horror movies 'The Rest Stop' and 'Sublime,' which will come from the studio's Raw Feed label.
Note that both franchises had long been expected on Blu-ray and HD DVD since the each format's initial launch. Warner has long trumpeted both in many of its early promotional materials as "Coming Soon," and even went so far as to briefly list on its media website the fourth in the 'Potter' series, 'Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire' in preparation for a major announcement last fall, only to subsequently pull the title with no explanation.
According to Warner, the wait for such A-list catalog product on both Blu-ray and HD DVD is a response to the growing installed base of both formats, as well as a clear sign that the studio sees high-def as making further inroads into the mass consumer consciousness.
"It won’t be [just]early adopters in the fourth quarter," Steve Nickerson, Warner Warner senior VP of market management, told Video Business, "but at a point of the early majority, so as you put out product, you need to anticipate the upcoming demographic.”
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'Flashdance' to Dazzle on Blu-ray, HD DVD This Fall
Paramount Home Entertainment has announced it will bring the classic '80s extravaganza 'Flashdance' to Blu-ray and HD DVD this September.
Set to coincide with a new standard-def DVD special edition re-release of the musical smash (which grossed nearly $100 million at the box office back in 1983), 'Flashdance' will hit Blu-ray and HD DVD concurrently on September 18.
No specs yet, but a batch of new supplementary material is expected, featuring the participation of director Adrian Lyne, star Jennifer Beals and other key members of the cast and crew.
Paramount has set a $29.95 list price for both high-def versions.
'Flashdance' is the latest in what is fast becoming a trend for Paramount, with the studio timing the next-gen release of a catalog classic with a new, feature-laden re-issue on standard-def DVD. Other recent Paramount catalog titles that have received the simultaneous day-and-date treatment include 'Reds,' 'Trading Places,' and the upcoming 'Saturday Night Fever.'
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Sony Offers New 'Fifth Element' Blu-ray Remaster and "Replacement Exchange Program
(http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/7656/originalcf6.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
Following weeks of rumors, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has finally confirmed the planned release of a remastered version of'The Fifth Element' for Blu-ray, as well as a "Replacement Exchange Program" for consumers unhappy with the original release.
Sony first released 'The Fifth Element' on Blu-ray back in June 2006, as part of an inaugural wave of disc releases timed to coincide with the launch of Blu-ray hardware.
Joined in that opening slate by a number of films, including 'xXx,' 'Hitch' and '50 First Dates,' 'The Fifth Element' received exceptionally poor reviews for both image quality and its almost complete lack of bonus features, which many (including High-Def Digest's own Peter Bracke) felt were not up to snuff for a premiere high-def release.
Now, in an extremely rare move, Sony will not only be re-issuing 'the Fifth Element' on Blu-ray in a newly remastered version due in stores on July 17, but also offering a "Replacement Exchange Program" for owners of the original version who may be unhappy with their purchase.
Sony is currently accepting preliminary consumer information for the exchange program, and will contact interested parties closer to the release of the remastered version on exact instructions on how to exchange their discs. Simply contact the company via the email address or phone number listed below, and provide your name, mailing address, and phone number.
Phone: (800) 860-2878
Email: [email protected]
The new version of 'The Fifth Element' will be presented in upgraded 1080p video (no codec yet available), along with uncompressed PCM and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 surround tracks. Supplemental features will remain identical to the original, now-discontinued release.
For those wishing to purchase the new version of 'The Fifth Element' at retail when it hits stores on July 17, list price will be consistent with the previous, with Sony offering the remastered 'Fifth Element' at an MSRP of $28.95.
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Perhaps Universal should follow Sony's Remaster & Replacement Exchange Program. :-\
'Freedom 1' Offers First Look at HD DVD Twin-Format Disc
The first US "twin-format" HD DVD/DVD release (the anime title 'Freedom 1') doesn't hit store shelves until June 26th, but our Kenneth Brown got a sneak peak this week, and tells all in his just-posted review.
Not to be confused with double-sided HD DVD/DVD combo discs, twin-format discs can contain up to three layers of recorded content on a single-sided disc. 'Freedom 1' uses two of those layers -- a 15GB HD DVD layer, and a 4.6GB standard-def DVD layer.
Looking at the disc itself, Kenneth says you'd never guess it's anything special. Unlike combo discs, one side has a printed label, while the other side looks just like a normal HD DVD disc. Pop it in an HD DVD player or a standard-def player, however, and the twin-format disc starts to work its magic, auto-detecting the player format and hopping to the proper layer without the user having to make any selection.
As for video quality, Kenneth says this first-ever anime release to hit high-def disc in the US looks excellent, boasting "vivid colors, perfect black levels, and crisply detailed linework." Considering the program's running time of only 25 minutes, arguably that's no great feat for a 15GB HD DVD, but it is an encouraging sign for both Microsoft and the disc's distributor Bandai, who reportedly worked together to tweak the VC-1 encode specifically for anime.
As if a brand-new disc type and a newly-tweaked codec weren't enough, 'Freedom 1' is also notable for its inclusion of several more-advanced HDi-enhanced extras, including a customizable picture-in-picture track, and some additional supplementary features accessible only through your HD DVD player's internet connection.
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Another (minor) blow to HD DVD:
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Starz/Disc_Announcements/Starz_Home_Entertainment_Announces_Blu-ray_Support_with_Masters_of_Horror/709 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Starz/Disc_Announcements/Starz_Home_Entertainment_Announces_Blu-ray_Support_with_Masters_of_Horror/709)
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BD+ has been finalized - avalanche of Fox Blu-ray movies expected to follow (http://www.ps3fanboy.com/2007/06/20/bd-has-been-finalized-avalanche-of-fox-blu-ray-movies-expecte/)
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Warner Plans Line of Direct-to-Disc Horror Sequels for Blu-ray, HD DVD
Warner Home Video has announced a new pact with Joel Silver's Dark Castle Entertainment to produce a series of direct-to-video horror sequels for release on Blu-ray and HD DVD, starting with the sequel 'Return to Haunted Hill' this Halloween.
As part of a multi-year deal with the studio, Dark Castle will produce between two or three films a year for video release on DVD, Blu-ray and HD DVD, as well as other digital delivery media, including the Internet.
First up in October (exact street date TBA) will be 'Return to the House on Haunted Hill,' a direct-to-video sequel to the 2000 theatrical hit 'House on Haunted Hill.
While 'Return' will be released to standard-def DVD as well, the next gen versions of the film are set to exclusively include a new interactive "navigational cinema" technology that sounds like a high-tech form of the old "Choose Your Own Adventure" books, allowing the viewer to make seven choices as the story unfolds, leading to over 90 different iterations of the film.
"We are continually looking for fresh and edgy ideas for our films and for our fans to experience," Dark Castle co-founder Joel Silver told Variety.
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Fox Announces 22 Blu-ray Titles for France (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=274)
Sleeping Beauty for 2008 (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=270#comments)
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BD+ has been finalized - avalanche of Fox Blu-ray movies expected to follow (http://www.ps3fanboy.com/2007/06/20/bd-has-been-finalized-avalanche-of-fox-blu-ray-movies-expecte/)
"Interestingly, Blu-ray.com has said that "other studios, including those who currently don't support Blu-ray, have shown some interest as well" in BD+, hinting that additional studios may be coming onboard the Blu-ray train. No specifics were given, but you have to wonder how much longer Universal is going to hold out. After this week, HD-DVD is going to have to pull off one hell of a Hail Mary to win."
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Europe Key HD Battleground (http://www.homemediaretailing.com/news/html/breaking_article.cfm?article_id=10774)
(http://www.homemediaretailing.com/cmt_images/10774_news_image.jpg)
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(http://www.dvdtalk.com/reviews/images/reviews/116/1162617920.jpg)(http://www.dvdtalk.com/reviews/images/reviews/116/1162618094.gif)
DVD Talk - Switzerland of World War HD (http://www.dvdtalk.com/hd/switzerland_of_world_war_hd.html)
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First Look Reveals Full Specs for Debut HD DVD Title 'The Contract'
First Look Entertainment has unveiled full specs for their maiden HD DVD release 'The Contract,' which is set to boast several exclusive high-def extras.
First Look originally announced 'The Contract' for a July 24 HD DVD release, day-and-date with the standard-def DVD. Now they have revealed complete tech specs and supplemental details, and the release looks like it will easily hold its own against any next-gen offering from a major studio.
In addition to 1080p/VC-1 video, the HD-30 dual-layer disc will feature DTS and Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 surround tracks (both 1.5mbps). Supplemental material will mirror the standard-def release, including the "Inside 'The Contract' featurette, a still gallery and theatrical trailer.
Exclusive to the high-def version will be a new picture-in-picture video commentary, dubbed the "First Look Inside Look."
Though PIP features have a good number of HD DVD titles, they've so far been reserved for major theatrical hits from the big studios. 'The Contract' represents the first truly low-budget, limited release indie feature to receive such interactive attention on high-def.
First Look has not announced Blu-ray support, and no Blu-ray version of 'The Contract' is currently set for release.
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Warner to Debut First "Blue Screen" Picture-in-Picture Commentary with HD DVD '300' :D
Warner Home Video is planning to push the boundaries of high-def technology with the July HD DVD release of '300,' which is set to include the world's first "blue screen" picture-in-picture commentary.
Warner first announced '300' in early May for a July 31 release on both Blu-ray and HD DVD, with initial specs including an In-Movie Experience video commentary track (exclusive to the HD DVD version).
Though IME tracks are common to many HD DVD releases, '300' will be unique in that it will include what Warner is dubbing the first-ever "Blue-Screen Picture-in-Picture Version." Throughout the track, director Zack Snyder will present the pre-CGI-enhanced version to the finished film, allowing viewers to compare the entire movie in both rough and completed forms.
The HD DVD will include several other additional exclusive features, including the "Vengeance and Valor" interactive game, a "Pick Your Favorite Scenes" function allowing users to assemble clips and create a unique montage, as well as other web-enabled downloadable features to be announced.
The remaining specs will be identical to both the HD DVD and Blu-ray versions of '300,' including standard audio commentary, multiple featurettes, a suite of "Webisodes" and deleted scenes.
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Looks like a summer storm for Blu:
Five Free Blu-ray Movies with Purchase of any BD Player
The Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA) has revealed an exciting offer for those of you who are still looking to pick up a Blu-ray player. If you purchase a Blu-ray player (including the PS3) between July 1st and September 30th, you will automatically qualify to receive 5 Blu-ray movies absolutely free. Combine this with existing offers (like the 5 free Blu-ray movies with purchase of a Panasonic DMP-BD10A), and you could receive up to 10 free Blu-ray movies with the purchase of a player. :o
But wait, there's more! If you decide you would like to purchase a PS3, Sony is offering a special deal through their retail Sony Style stores. Purchase a PS3, two games, and an extra controller from now until July 8th, and you will receive a $50 gift card.
Rebate information can be found at the following site: http://www.bluraysavings.com (http://www.bluraysavings.com) (note: site is not up yet but will by by June 30)
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Looks like a summer storm for Blu:
Five Free Blu-ray Movies with Purchase of any BD Player
The Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA) has revealed an exciting offer for those of you who are still looking to pick up a Blu-ray player. If you purchase a Blu-ray player (including the PS3) between July 1st and September 30th, you will automatically qualify to receive 5 Blu-ray movies absolutely free. Combine this with existing offers (like the 5 free Blu-ray movies with purchase of a Panasonic DMP-BD10A), and you could receive up to 10 free Blu-ray movies with the purchase of a player. :o
Problem is most BD players today are not yet BD-J 1.1 compliant and upcoming features like Picture-in-picture(PiP) and DTS HD MA support are NOT upgradable thru firmware patch.
Come Nov. 1 all those uninformed buyers will scratch their head realizing what they bought is already obsolete. Well, thats one tricky way to boost BD player sales. ;D
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Universal Brings 'Last Starfighter,' 'For the Love of the Game' to HD DVD this Fall
Universal Studios Home Entertainment has announced two new catalog titles for release this September -- the cult favorites 'Last Starfighter' and 'For the Love of the Game.'
Due in stores September 18, both 'Starfighter' and 'Game' will boast 1080p/VC-1 transfers and, in a move sure to please early adopters who have been clamoring for more consistent high-resolution audio support from the studio, Dolby TrueHD tracks on both.
Extras will mirror the standard-def DVD versions of each title, including audio commentary, featurettes, deleted scenes and more.
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Warner Delays Launch of Total HD Until 2008
In a surprise announcement, Warner said Wednesday that it is pushing back the planned fall launch of its first Total HD dual Blu-ray/HD DVD combo releases until early 2008.
The hybrid format, which Warner first announced earlier this year at the Consumer Electronics Show, was originally planned to hit stores in time for the fourth-quarter holiday shopping season. As recently as this past March, all production and replication hurdles appeared to have been cleared for launch.
The sudden and unexpected news of the delay for Total HD came yesterday during the Entertainment Supply Chain Academy in Los Angeles, where Warner senior VP of marketing management Steve Nickerson confirmed that the studio would be delaying the debut of the hybrid Blu-ray/HD DVD format until at least early 2008.
"There is no expiration date on the viability of this concept, so we're not in a rush to do it," Nickerson said. "We'll do it when it makes sense and when it's right."
Nickerson also stated that the studio intends to launch Total HD with between ten and twenty titles, allowing retailers to display them together in one section so they don't get lost amid the growing number of home video formats currently hogging store shelves.
Warner was also quick to point out that it is not planning to abandon either Blu-ray or HD DVD releases in the interim. Despite limited shelf space at retail, the studio believes there is a market for both high-def platforms, one that they will continue to satisfy with dual-format releases.
"Our research shows that there is demand for each of those products [Blu-ray and HD DVD]," said studio VP of sales planning and operations Dan Miron. "We are trying to evaluate [how to best treat] each one of these releases."
The timing of Warner's announcement, as well as the studio's apparent lack of urgency in bringing Total HD to market, may strike some as curious. With Blu-ray continuing to outpace HD DVD in overall disc sales since the start of the year, some industry observers have speculated that if such sales trends continue, the format war could be all but over by the end of fourth quarter 2007 -- long before Total HD has a chance to gain a foothold in the marketplace.
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The 2007 DVDA Excellence Awards Complete List of Winners (http://www.dvda.org/content/view/2689/271/)
*includes HD DVD & Blu-ray discs
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Jungle Book and Lost on Blu-ray?
In an article discussing how grocery stores are driving down profits for DVD sales, Philippe Roucoule from Buena Vista Home Entertainment mentioned part of their release slate for the rest of the year. These titles include a 'Pirates of the Caribbean' Box Set, 'Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End', 'Jungle Book' (1967), 'Santa Claus 3', 'Lost', 'Desperate Housewives', and 'High School Musical'.
Additionally, they will be releasing some Miramax and Bruckheimer films, though none were mentioned by name, as well as other unannounced Disney titles. While the article takes great care to ensure these titles will be released on Blu-ray (in addition to DVD), we'll have to take this with a grain of salt until the studio announces these titles officially. We suggest you do the same.
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Galapagos Announced for HD DVD & Blu-ray
BBC Video has announced that they will be releasing the nature documentary 'Galapagos' for Hd DVD and Blu-ray on October 2. Riding the coat tails of the very successful 'Planet Earth' release, 'Galapagos' documents a group of island in which creation and extinction define their very existence. No specs have been announced, but being that this release is via Warner, expect a VC-1 encode and Dolby Digital surround.
The inspiration for Darwin's theory of evolution, the Galapagos Islands are a living laboratory, a geological conveyor belt that has given birth to and seen the death of many species of plants and animals. As the western islands rise up from the sea offering a chance of life, the eastern islands sink back beneath the waves guaranteeing only death. Between the two are the middle islands; fertile, lush land in its prime that contains an incredible diversity of life. Nowhere else on the Earth are the twin processes of creation and extinction of species so starkly apparent... see it all unfold before your eyes in this stunning series filmed entirely in high definition from the BBC and the National Geographic Channel.
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Toshiba Offers HD DVD Player Firmware Upgrade to Unlock 'Blood Diamond' Web-Enabled Features
Coinciding with Warner's Tuesday bow of the web-enabled HD DVD version of 'Blood Diamond,' Toshiba of America is offering a new firmware upgrade for its second-generation players.
Hitting stores on July 3, 'Blood Diamond' will be the first major studio high-def release to boast exclusive web-enabled content downloadable via Ethernet, including dynamic text and graphic content as well as additional interactive web features. (It follows another web-enabled HD DVD release, 'Freedom Vol. 1,' which hit stores on June 26 from indie distributor Bandai Visual.)
Toshiba is making the update available for its second-gen player models HD-XA2, HD-A20, HD-A2W and HD-D2.
According to the documentation provided by the manufacturer, the upgrade improves network connectivity in anticipation of the web-enabled content on 'Blood Diamond' and any future such enhanced titles:
Certain HD DVD discs may contain or have the capability of downloading studio-provided, Web-enabled network content. To minimize any potential capability and/or connectivity issues, before viewing such content, it is recommended that you perform the firmware update process.
The firmware can be accessed for direct download via the player's Ethernet ports. The upgrade can also be obtained for download at the company website's customer support section, or users can request a copy of the firmware free on CD (sent via traditional mail).
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Amazon, Microsoft to Help Bring Indie Films to HD DVD
Amazon and Microsoft have announced that they are joining forces to subsidize the authoring of up to 1000 independent films to the HD DVD format.
The unique promotion, dubbed "The 1000 HD DVD Indies Project," will see Microsoft provide free HD DVD authoring services to qualifying independent filmmakers, which Amazon will then package and make available for sale on its website, with royalities flowing back to the filmmaker for each disc sold.
This new HD DVD program is the latest addition to Amazon's CustomFlix CD and DVD service, which produces and ships discs only as they are ordered, eliminating the need for costly inventory. Filmmakers can then set the sale price, and earn royalties for each disc sold.
While CustomFlix has also released select titles on Blu-ray in the past (including the 'Living Landscapes' series), this Micosoft-sponsored promotion is HD DVD specific, as are the accompanying promotional materials.
In quote from the press release announcing the program, Dana LoPiccolo-Giles, co-founder and managing director of CustomFlix had this to say about HD DVD: "From a technical standpoint, we found that the HD DVD format fits our business model perfectly."
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I like this! The main reason I bought HD DVD is to see Indies and foreign films.
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Digital Leisure to Unleash 'Dragon's Lair' on HD DVD This August
Lagging behind its Blu-ray counterpart by several months, 'Dragon's Lair' will finally hit HD DVD on August 15 from indie developer Digital Leisure.
The hybrid animated film/video game was one of the big hits of the arcade boom of the early '80s. Combining hand-drawn 2-D animation from the Don Bluth Studios with laserdisc-based technology, 'Dragon's Lair' allowed gamers to pilot the heroic Dirk the Daring on a series of adventures using simple joystick commands.
Digital Leisure has since released the trend-setter on several different home platforms, including standard-def DVD and DVD-ROM for PCs, before finally debuting the Blu-ray version earlier this year on April 9.
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More HD DVD Titles Released in Q2 Than Blu-ray
Following a dry spell in the first quarter of this year, the HD DVD camp rebounded in Q2 to release more high-def titles than its next-gen rival.
According to industry tipsheet The DVD Release Report, 70 HD DVD titles hit store shelves during the period from April 1 through June 30, compared to 63 Blu-ray titles in the same timeframe.
That's quite a jump for HD DVD, which got trounced in the same metric by Blu-ray over the first three months of the year, releasing only 29 titles (compared to Blu-ray's 69). HD DVD backers have pointed to the format's dearth of new releases in the early part of the year as a primary reason for what quickly became a widening sales lead for Blu-ray.
But while Blu-ray continues to lead in overall disc sales (VideoScan numbers for the week ending June 24 indicate a continued 2:1 sales lead for the format), the good news for HD DVD fans is that Blu-ray's once-growing sales lead appears to have at least stabilized.
Primary HD DVD backer Universal Studios led the Q2 HD DVD push, releasing a total of 33 HD DVD titles on its own. Although the studio has been accused of rushing some of its more recent HD DVD catalogue titles to market at the cost of picture quality, it shows no signs of slowing down with another 23 HD DVD titles already announced for release from now through September.
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I like this! The main reason I bought HD DVD is to see Indies and foreign films.
Blu-Ray will have it's share of indie/foreign films too:
http://www.marketwire.com/2.0/release.do?id=725225&sourceType=1 (http://www.marketwire.com/2.0/release.do?id=725225&sourceType=1)
http://ipodnytt.com/2007/04/01/edge-of-light-media-opening-blu-ray-doors-for-independent-films/ (http://ipodnytt.com/2007/04/01/edge-of-light-media-opening-blu-ray-doors-for-independent-films/)
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More HD DVD Titles Released in Q2 Than Blu-ray
Following a dry spell in the first quarter of this year, the HD DVD camp rebounded in Q2 to release more high-def titles than its next-gen rival.
According to industry tipsheet The DVD Release Report, 70 HD DVD titles hit store shelves during the period from April 1 through June 30, compared to 63 Blu-ray titles in the same timeframe.
That's quite a jump for HD DVD, which got trounced in the same metric by Blu-ray over the first three months of the year, releasing only 29 titles (compared to Blu-ray's 69). HD DVD backers have pointed to the format's dearth of new releases in the early part of the year as a primary reason for what quickly became a widening sales lead for Blu-ray.
But while Blu-ray continues to lead in overall disc sales (VideoScan numbers for the week ending June 24 indicate a continued 2:1 sales lead for the format), the good news for HD DVD fans is that Blu-ray's once-growing sales lead appears to have at least stabilized.
Primary HD DVD backer Universal Studios led the Q2 HD DVD push, releasing a total of 33 HD DVD titles on its own. Although the studio has been accused of rushing some of its more recent HD DVD catalogue titles to market at the cost of picture quality, it shows no signs of slowing down with another 23 HD DVD titles already announced for release from now through September.
Just wait for the flood of Fox/MGM titles on BD in time for the Christmas season ;)
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Europe Steps Up Probe of New DVD Formats]
(http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/6514/mkak734amovie2007070222pk3.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
In a move that could be key to determining the future of home cinema, European antitrust regulators are stepping up their probe into possible anticompetitive practices in the format war over high-definition DVDs.
Hollywood's studios are racing to dig up files, emails and records of telephone conversations related to the competing Blu-ray and HD DVD formats after the European Commission sent out letters last month demanding evidence of their communications and agreements on the new generation of DVD formats.
The European Commission, the European Union's executive body, appears to be particularly interested in the activities of the Blu-ray group because of its dominance in Hollywood, according to people familiar with the situation. The commission is investigating whether improper tactics were used to suppress competition and persuade the studios to back their format.
Jonathan Todd, a spokesman for the commission, confirmed that it had sent letters to the studios in mid-June trying to establish whether they have restrictive agreements to use one or the other of the standards.
Blu-ray, which is supported by Sony Corp. and partners, is in a fierce combat with the Toshiba Corp.-led HD DVD group to set the standard for the next generation of DVD. High-definition DVDs promise sharper picture quality and better sound than traditional DVDs, but they require new players. (Neither of the new formats is compatible with traditional DVD players, but traditional DVDs can be viewed on both Blu-ray and HD DVD players.)
While the HD camp has had some success in its partnership with Microsoft Corp.'s Xbox 360 videogame consoles and by offering lower-priced machines, the Blu-ray camp has gained the upper hand in Hollywood, with more studios backing its format. Blockbuster Inc. also recently said it would exclusively stock DVDs using the Blu-ray format.
The HD DVD camp has been lobbying the commission to draw attention to Blu-ray's tactics in the movie capital in a bid to force more studios to put their product on HD DVD, according to people familiar with the situation. One issue the Commission has raised with some studios is statements made at the Consumer Electronics Show in January in Las Vegas about the exclusivity of studios to Blu-ray, according to people familiar with the situation.
Blu-ray is supported by every major studio except NBC Universal's Universal Pictures, which is backing HD DVD exclusively. Five studios are exclusive to Blu-ray: Sony Pictures Entertainment, Walt Disney Co., News Corp.'s Twentieth Century Fox, Lions Gate Entertainment Corp. and MGM, which is owned by a consortium including Sony. Viacom Inc.'s Paramount Pictures and Time Warner Inc.'s Warner Bros. are backing both. In its formal request to at least one studio, the commission has asked for documents related to any decision to release movies on Blu-ray exclusively and not HD DVD, as well as communications on both formats with certain individuals associated with Blu-ray.
Both new formats offer old and recent titles.
The European Commission launched a broad inquiry into the competing formats a year ago. The commission said at the time that it had sent a letter to Blu-ray and HD to request information about their licensing practices. However, the commission's recent letter to the studios signals a shift in focus to the studios and possibly Blu-ray specifically.
The battle between Blu-ray and HD DVD is expected to reach a fever pitch in the fourth quarter of this year. The run-up to the Christmas period is traditionally the most important period for DVD sales. There is a lot at stake: Whichever camp wins the battle stands to make huge profits from selling both players and DVDs.
Both camps have significantly stepped up their efforts in recent weeks. Blu-ray announced a summer promotion that gives consumers five free Blu-ray movies if they purchase a new Blu-ray player by Sept. 30. Toshiba recently announced HD DVD players would sell for as little as $299, far less than comparable Blu-ray players.
The market for next-generation DVDs of either stripe is tiny so far, though. Through June, Blu-ray had sold about 1.8 million discs, compared with 1.3 million for HD DVD, according to consultancy Adams Media Research. A top title such as Warner Bros.' "The Departed," which was out in both formats, shipped 85,000 copies in Blu-ray and 60,000 in HD DVD, compared with 7.7 million for regular DVDs.
These days, Blu-ray discs are outselling HD DVDs at a rate of about two to one, says Tom Adams, president at Adams Media. But that doesn't mean HD DVDs can't reclaim the advantage if more studios start releasing movies in both formats.
Once either format hits about two million homes, it will create a large enough incentive for any studio not releasing titles in that format to reconsider, Mr. Adams says. Currently, about 105,000 homes have Blu-ray players, and about 150,000 have HD DVD players. An additional 1.5 million homes have PlayStation 3 devices, which also play Blu-ray movies, although fewer gamers are using the machines to play movies than had been hoped for. About 160,000 consumers have bought add-on devices for Xbox machines that allow them to play HD DVDs.
The studios want a new revenue stream to compensate for slowing DVD sales. When consumers switched from the VHS tape format to DVD, it created a sales bonanza as consumers replaced their old tapes with crisper DVDs. Studios are hoping for the same sort of upgrade for new format DVDs.
But many consumers say the difference in quality between the new DVDs and the old ones isn't as impressive as the difference between VHS tapes and DVDs, prompting them to drag their feet on replacing their equipment. In addition to buying new players, consumers need expensive high-definition televisions to play the new discs.
Consumer groups have slammed the studios and the electronics companies for creating another product in which two incompatible technologies battle for supremacy in the marketplace. The situation harks back to the battle between VHS and Betamax in the 1980s. VHS tapes eventually won, but not until millions of consumers bought Betamax machines, which became obsolete.
For DVDs, the studios and electronics companies worked together to avoid a similar mess. As two competing formats for next-generation DVDs emerged, the companies involved talked about merging the formats or picking one over the other, but this time compromise proved elusive.
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Nice article Mouldingo :)
'Smallville' Sixth Season Headed to Blu-ray, HD DVD
It's a bird! It's a plane! It's 'Smallville: The Complete Sixth Season,' arriving on Blu-ray and HD DVD this fall from Warner Home Video.
Scheduled for a cross-format date-and-date release on standard-def DVD, Blu-ray and HD DVD on September 18, Warner says the sixth season of the long-running TV favorite will come with a healthy package of extras.
Both next-gen versions will receive 1080p/VC-1 transfers and Dolby Digital 5.1 surround tracks (with the HD DVD receiving the "Dolby Digital-Plus" designator, though the bitrates on both are equal at 640kbps).
Supplements include four making-of featurettes, an additional featurette on the diehard 'Smallville' cult following, plus a collection of deleted scenes.
In a high-def first,Warner will be making full use of Blu-ray's expanded disc storage capacity, with the Blu-ray version employing four discs instead of the HD DVD's five -- disc specs and extras, however, remain identical.
Warner has set a $79.95 list price for both versions.
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'Patch Adams,' 'Cat People' Lead Universal September HD DVD Wave
Universal Studios Home Entertainment has announced its second wave of September HD DVD releases, including the catalog hits 'Patch Adams,' 'Cat People' and the 1994 remake of 'The Getaway.'
Due in stores September 25, all three titles will boast the studio's standard 1080p/VC-1 transfers, and -- in what appears to be a newfound, unilateral support for high-resolution audio -- Dolby TrueHD 5.1 surround tracks.
These three new titles follow Universal's announcement last week of a first wave of two September HD DVD catalog releases, 'For the Love of the Game' and 'The Last Starfighter.'
'Patch Adams' and 'Cat People' are both set to include all of the same supplements as their standard-def DVD counterparts, including audio commentary, featurettes and more. ('The Getaway,' like the previous DVD edition, will be featureless.)
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More Details in on Samsung's Dual-Format Blu-ray/HD DVD Player
Samsung has released more information about its upcoming BDP-UP5000 hybrid player, including a targeted release date.
The company said Wednesday that it plans to unleash its new player (which was originally announced several months back) in October or November of this year. Yesterday's announcement was made at a preparation event for the IFA tradeshow in Germany, where Samsung is expected to display the player in late August.
Unlike LG's already released BH100 dual-format player, Samsung says its BDP-UP5000 will support all features of both formats (including BD-Java and HDi, as well as web-enabled supplements on both formats, via an Ethernet connection).
Samsung has yet to announce pricing for its new hybrid player, but it is expected to retail at a lower price than the LG player's current $1199.99.
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(http://www.tsurugi.co.uk/misc/disney_blu-ray.png) (http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/questex/hom070807/index.php?startpage=4)
Click here (http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/questex/hom070807/index.php?startpage=4) for original fullsize Home Media magazine two-page spread.
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What's better than perfect? Perfecter? :D
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Warner Bumps 'IMAX: Blue Planet' Blu-ray, HD DVD Street Date
Warner Home Video has announced a three-week street date bump for the Blu-ray and HD DVD release of 'IMAX: Blue Planet.'
Originally announced for a high-def release this Tuesday, July 10, Warner has unceremoniously postponed both next-gen versions to July 31.
The title will now join the hotly-anticipated '300,' which is set to debut on Blu-ray and HD DVD from Warner on the same day.
The studio didn't offer any reason for the delay, nor did it announce any changes in specs or bonus features for 'IMAX: Blue Planet.'
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Street_Date_Delays/Warner_Bumps_IMAX:_Blue_Planet_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD_Street_Date/752)
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Warner Announces 'Troy: Director's Cut' for Blu-ray, HD DVD
In the first example of a studio "double dipping" a next-gen title, Warner Home Video has announced a new 'Director's Cut' version of 'Troy' for release this fall on Blu-ray and HD DVD.
The theatrical cut of 'Troy' was first released as an HD DVD-only version in September of last year, and quickly became one of the format's biggest sellers.
Now, Warner will revisit the $400 million-grossing worldwide hit in the newly-expanded 'Troy: Director's Cut,' which will see a simultaneous bow on both HD DVD and Blu-ray (as well as standard-def DVD), on September 18.
Full tech specs are not yet available for the next-gen releases, although supplemental details for the two-disc standard-def DVD version of 'Troy: Director's Cut' include a new introduction by director Wolfgang Petersen, multiple making-of featurettes and more. We'll keep you posted as soon as final specs are confirmed for the high-def versions.
Warner has not yet indicated whether the existing theatrical cut edition of 'Troy' on HD DVD will remain on the market, or be discontinued in light of the new 'Director's Cut.'
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Disc_Announcements/Warner_Announces_Troy:_Directors_Cut_for_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD/754)
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New 'Star Trek' HD DVD Details Revealed
Fresh details have surfaced for the highly-anticipated high-def disc release of 'Star Trek: The Original Series,' with the set now expected to include never-before-seen footage exclusive to the next-gen edition.
It was nearly a year ago that Paramount Home Entertainment first revealed plans to release 'Star Trek' on HD DVD, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of the sci-fi classic. At the time, the studio said the new release would feature a host of new GGI enhancements, among them redone spaceship exteriors, a rejiggered opening and even a digitally remastered version of William Shatner's classic 38-word "Space, the final frontier..." credit monologue.
Now comes news that the high-def release will also include never-before-seen behind-the-scenes 8mm footage taken during the original production of the series.
Though Paramount has yet to announce an official street date for 'The Original Series,' the just-published program guide for this year's Comic-Con reveals that the studio is planning to give convention attendees a first peek at footage from the long-awaited release on July 26 at a special event dubbed "Star Trek: The Original Series - As You've Never Seen It," which is also slated to include a panel of 'Trek' luminaries.
Strangely, Paramount has made no mention of a Blu-ray release of the series (only HD DVD), although since the studio supports both next-gen formats, we can only assume that the set will ultimately find its way to Blu-ray, as well.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Paramount/TV_on_High-Def/Star_Trek_(3_posts)/New_Star_Trek_HD_DVD_Details_Revealed/756)
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Paramount Brings 'Next' to Blu-ray, HD DVD
Paramount Home Entertainment has announced it will bow the sci-fi thriller 'Next' on Blu-ray and HD DVD this September.
Starring Nicolas Cage and Jessica Biel, and inspired by a celebrated Philip K. Dick novel, 'Next' failed to light up the box office this past winter, grossing a relatively paltry $35 million. However, with Cage's 'Ghost Rider' currently burning up the Blu-ray charts and sci-fi often scoring big numbers on home video, 'Next' may find a new audience on high-def.
Paramount is due to bow the thriller on September 25 on both next-gen formats, day-and-date with the standard-def DVD release.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Paramount/Disc_Announcements/Paramount_Brings_Next_to_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD/758)
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Paul,your posts are interesting but can I ask a favor to pls indicate/paste your SOURCE? I think this is pretty much standard in all forums I've visited for the poster to link the article to their source, especially if it was lifted from another site. Thanks.
Mouldingo, your quote above on the EU commission investigating the HD formats is quite intriguing. Can you post the SOURCE? Thanks.
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Noted Alex, will do. ;)
HD DVD and Blu-ray Titles to Take Center Stage at Comic-Con 2007
High-def early adopters attending this year's Comic-Con in San Diego will be treated to a first look at several of this fall's most eagerly anticipated high-def releases.
The newly-published schedule for this year's genre fest reveals at least three upcoming next-gen titles that will be getting the Comic-Con treatment when the annual conventional rolls into San Diego late this month.
As we first reported earlier this morning, kicking things off on Thursday July 26th is what organizers are calling the "worldwide debut" of the upcoming high-def disc release of the original 'Star Trek' series. The one hour session, dubbed "Star Trek - The Original Series: As You've Never Seen It" promises to be an interesting one, featuring a preview of the fully remastered HD DVD (which has yet to be given a street date), and a panel that includes Rod Roddenberry, son of the Star Trek creator.
Next up, on Friday July 27, producer Joel Silver and Spanish director Victor Garcia will preview the next-gen editions of 'Return To House on Haunted Hill,' due on HD DVD and Blu-ray this October. As we've previously reported, this direct-to-disc sequel from Warner is slated to include new "Navigational Cinema" technology that will enable the viewer to make seven choices as the story unfolds, leading to over 90 different iterations of the film.
Finally, at what's sure to be a packed session on Saturday July 28th, the entire cast of 'Heroes' will join co-executive producer/comic book writer Jeph Loeb and series creator Tim Kring for a session that is expected to include a first-ever look at the August 28 HD DVD release of 'Heroes: Season One.'
Needless to say, we can expect more than a few juicy tidbits to come out of each of these sessions. If you can't make it to San Diego to see them in person, not to worry -- we've got you covered. Watch this space for complete coverage of all the Blu-ray/HD DVD news to come out of Comic-Con: 2007. Stay tuned!
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Comic-Con/HD_DVD_and_Blu-ray_Titles_to_Take_Center_Stage_at_Comic-Con_2007/757)
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The PlayStation 3 $100 Price Drop and Bonus Giveaway :o :o
Much more than just a gaming console, the PlayStation 3 features Blu-ray playback, video chat, Internet access, digital photo viewing, and digital audio and video, making it a complete entertainment system. And with a recent $100 price drop it's more affordable than ever at $499.99.
Order your PlayStation 3 now and for a limited time Amazon will also include, free of charge, a Sony PlayStation 3 Blu-Ray DVD Remote and a copy of Resident Evil - Apocalypse in Blu-ray format. In addition, customers will also be given access to their choice of five free additional Blu-ray movies via a mail in rebate form. But remember, this offer is for a limited time only, so get your PlayStation 3 today.
(http://img295.imageshack.us/img295/9702/11bpwfeckrlwg0.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)(http://img295.imageshack.us/img295/8033/111crh4tylfx7.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)(http://img295.imageshack.us/img295/1737/b000ez7zze01pe31ou01sctok4.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
To get your free Remote and copy of Resident Evil - Apocalypse click the "Add to Shopping Cart" button below. Your PS3, FREE Remote and a FREE Blu-ray copy of Resident Evil - Apocalypse will be added to your cart. Proceed to checkout, where the price of your Remote and Blu-ray disc will be deducted from your subtotal before you are prompted to approve your order.
To get your additional five Blu-ray discs, visit the rebate link after you receive your PS3 and follow the instructions noted there.
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Blu-ray Backers Launch New High-Def Website (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/High-Def_Disc_Marketing/Blu-ray_Backers_Launch_New_High-Def_Website/761)
In a unique marketing move, several major Blu-ray-backing studios have teamed up to create a new consumer-focused content site called Hollywood In Hi-Def (http://www.hollywoodinhidef.com/).
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Samsung Brings Two New Players This Fall
Samsung has launched two third-generation Blu-ray Disc players, the BD-P2400 and BD-P1400.
Samsung's new BD player lineup offers full compatibility with 24 movie frames per second playback, the native format for cinematic releases.
Both the BD-P2400 and BD-P1400 work with lossless sound formats including, DTS HD and Dolby TrueHD for a variety of clear, full-bodied sound options.
The HDMI 1.3 connection also offers HDMI CEC (Anynet+) technology, allowing consumers to use a single remote control to operate the BD player, TV and other A/V products from Samsung.
Each model is able to up-convert standard DVD discs to full HD 1080p resolution via the HDMI connection, bringing consumers' DVD movie collections into the next generation.
In addition, the BD-P2400 offers a built-in "Hollywood quality" video processor, a unit apparently similar to those used by Hollywood production studios.
This enables true 1080i to 1080p HD de-interlacing for the best HD images possible - even from DVD formats.
The new players will be available in the States in the Autumn for $549 and $599.
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Tnx for the refreshing news Mouldingo on the new BD players. They can now decode DTS HD! I hopethey also implement the BD-J feature. :D
These will be my options to consider when I move to Neutral. :D
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Also, could this be Denon's forthcoming Blu-ray Disc player, or is it just a marketing/design mock-up? Almost certainly, it's the latter. But the Coroflot industrial design website has posted photos of a BD player (the DVD-HD8910) and a new 7.1 media center/receiver as well (the AVR-HD8910). The text indicates that the receiver comes equipped with a 2TB (tetrabyte) built-in hard drive (!) and a direct connection to the iTunes music store. And both are... well, darned funky looking. Here's a gander...
(http://img516.imageshack.us/img516/6594/61353enefvgnffgduu8iadhhz4.jpg) (http://imageshack.us) :o :o :o
This image is taken from a full-page Denon brochure for the units. Real or not (and we think it's almost certainly not - it's just a design flight of fancy), it's certainly... well, interesting. Yikes!
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Here's some news that's likely to get you Disney animated fans excited - at least those of you who have (or are considering) moving into Blu-ray Disc. A press release issued over at the Disney Consumer Products website indicates that the studio is planning to release its first Platinum animated title on the format in 2008... Sleeping Beauty. In a section talking about the company's Disney Princess line of products, you'll find this text:
"The entertainment will continue as Sleeping Beauty is planned for re-release on DVD in 2008 and will be available on Blue Ray for the first time."
Also today, our industry sources have sent us word that Fox is quietly planning to release at least some of the Alien films on Blu-ray Disc in 2008.
As always, this information should be considered unofficial until the titles are actually announced by the studios in question. Stay tuned...
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Mouldingo, your quote above on the EU commission investigating the HD formats is quite intriguing. Can you post the SOURCE? Thanks.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB118341745768555943.html ;D
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Thanks, Mouldingo. I hope you can post the sources of your future posts lifted from other sites as well. ;D
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Koch Readies 'Nature's Journey' for Blu-ray, HD DVD
Koch Distributing has announced it will bring the made-for-high definition 'Nature's Journey' to Blu-ray and HD DVD on September 11.
Dubbed a "mesmerizing sensory experience" of natural wonders, 'Nature's Journey' will come sans any appreciable extras, but Koch promises to deliver reference-quality high-def video and audio.
Both the Blu-ray and HD DVD versions will boast DTS HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 surround tracks at a full 96kHz/24-bit. The Blu-ray will also enjoy a peak 37mbps 1080 video encode, while the HD DVD enjoys 26mpbs (due to the storage capacity differences of the two formats).
Koch has set a $29.98 list price for both versions.
'Nature's Journey' follows Koch's first high-def release, the classic IMAX experience 'Chronos,' which debuted this past year on both formats.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Koch/Disc_Announcements/Koch_Readies_Natures_Journey_for_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD/765)
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HD DVD group says outselling Blu-ray in Europe (http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20070712/media_nm/dvd_players_europe_dc_3) (source)
FRANKFURT (Reuters) - HD DVD video players have outsold rival standard Blu-ray players by a three-to-one margin in Europe's main markets so far this year, according to a lobby group.
The European HD DVD Promotional Group claimed it had 74 percent market share in Britain, Germany, France, Italy, Spain and Switzerland for stand-alone players, citing sales figures it commissioned from market research group GfK.
GfK said it has not published research commissioned from the trade group.
The HD DVD group, led by Toshiba Corp. and backed by Microsoft Corp. and film studios including Warner Bros., declined to give figures for how many players it had shipped to retail outlets in Europe.
The figures were for stand-alone players only and did not include sales of games consoles such as Sony Corp.'s PlayStation 3, which contains a Blu-ray player.
The Sony-led Blu-ray lobby group includes Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., Apple Inc. and Dell Inc.. Its discs, which are outselling HD DVD discs, can store more information and special features but the technology is more expensive.
Toshiba cut prices for its HD-E1 HD DVD player to 399 euros ($549) in Europe and $299 in the United States last month from 499 euros and $399, respectively.
Sony's BDP-S300 Blu-ray player costs $499 in the United States, and its BDP-S1E European version has recently gone on sale, with prices starting at around 900 euros. Other Blu-ray players have been on sale in Europe for longer.
According to its Web site, Blu-ray is an optical disc format developed to enable recording, rewriting and playback of high-definition video. It claims to offer more than five times the storage capacity of traditional DVDs.
HD DVD (high-definition digital versatile disc) format claims to offer six times the picture resolution of normal DVDs and enhanced audio, according to its Web site.
Toshiba's spokesman for the European HD DVD group, Olivier Van Wynendaele, told Reuters that profit margins for its HD DVD players were comparable to those for its DVD players in Europe.
He declined to say whether Toshiba was selling players at a loss in the United States.
A mass market for high-definition video is still some way off. Blu-ray and HD DVD are battling for domination in a war reminiscent of the VHS-Betamax battle of the 1970s and 1980s. That war was won by VHS after about a decade.
Steve Nickerson, a Warner Bros spokesman for the HD DVD group, said still-high prices were partly to blame. "You can't get to mass-market consumption until you get to mass-market pricing," he told Reuters.
But Nickerson said the high-definition video market was developing faster than the DVD market had. "If we take a pragmatic approach, and understand we're still only selling to innovators, we are ahead of the DVD curve."
Van Wynendaele said surveys had shown 70 percent of consumers would be prepared to buy a high-definition player once prices fall below $200.
Asked when Toshiba would cut prices to that level, he answered: "I can't say if it's likely this year, but it will happen, yes."
Nickerson added: "It took nearly four years for that price point to be achieved in DVD ... anything inside three years would be significantly improved compared to the DVD."
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'Wings of Honneamise' to Fly on Blu-ray, HD DVD this September
One of the classics of anime will make its high-def debut when Bandai Visual brings 'Royal Space Force: The Wings of Honneamise' to Blu-ray and HD DVD this fall.
Due to hit both Blu-ray and HD DVD on September 11, Bandai will present the acclaimed anime masterpiece in a newly-remastered 20th Anniversary Edition.
Tech specs are identical on both versions, and are set to include a restored print remastered in full 1080p video, along with the original Japanese soundtrack in both Dolby Digital TrueHD and uncompressed PCM 5.1 surround versions. (An optional English dub in standard Dolby Digital 5.1 will also be included.)
Intriguingly, both next-gen releases are being billed as "two-disc sets," with the second disc being a standard-def DVD. At press time, it wasn't clear what might appear on that second disc -- the fact that Bandai is calling both next-gen releases "combos" has led some to speculate that the standard-def DVD may just be a duplicate copy of 'Honneamise' in standard-def. Here's hoping that's not the case, and that the second disc will contain some as yet unannounced supplements, instead.
Bandai has set a rather pricey $79.99 MSRP for both the Blu-ray and HD DVD versions of 'Wing of Honneamise.' :o
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Bandai_Visual/High-Def_Anime/Disc_Announcements/Wings_of_Honneamise_to_Fly_on_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD_this_September/770)
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'Planet Earth' Goes All-American in New HD DVD, Blu-ray Release
Can't get enough 'Planet Earth' on High-Def? Now there's a new edition of the groundbreaking series bound for Blu-ray and HD DVD.
The series first hit both next-gen formats back in April from the BBC, featuring the original narration by legendary nature documentarian David Attenborough. That edition went on to break High-Def sales records, generating more revenue than any other HD DVD/Blu-ray release to date.
Now a second version of 'Planet Earth' is hitting both HD DVD and Blu-ray -- the version that was presented in the series' US television run, which replaced Attenborough's narration with the decidedly less British actress/conservationist Sigourney Weaver.
This new version is being released by The Discovery Channel (which aired 'Planet Earth' in the US), although it would seem that the cable network's distribution rights to the series are limited to direct sales.
As such, the channel recently listed three separate box set editions of its version of the series at Discovery Channel Store. While the standard DVD version ($69.95) is already available, the next gen editions ($99.95 each) show an an estimated ship date of July 30, 2007.
The Discovery Channel has also been advertising a separate website (pedvd.com) that's selling the first three episodes of 'Planet Earth' on a single disc at $14.95 on both next-gen formats. It wasn't immediately clear whether additional episodes will be available as standalone discs at some point in the future.
There's no word yet on specs or supplemental features for newly configured next-gen editions of the series. Here's hoping that the various featurettes and the bonus doc that were unceremoniously dropped from the BBC high-def editions get their due this time around. (Discovery has included them in its companion standard-def edition, but they appeared on the standard-def BBC edition as well, so that's no great indicator.)
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Disc_Announcements/BBC/Discovery_Channel/Planet_Earth_Goes_All-American_in_New_HD_DVD,_Blu-ray_Release/768)
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Universal Under Pressure to Support Blu-ray?
Washington, D.C. (July 16, 2007) -- Universal Studios is the only studio that's backing the HD DVD high-def format exclusively.
But Variety Magazine reports that the studio is being pressured to start releasing titles in the rival Blu-ray format as well.
"We understand there is a lot of persuading going on right now," Variety quotes Envisioneering Group's Richard Doherty, who adds that Universal executives might negotiate with Blu-ray backers at this summer's investment conferences.
In the Blu-ray vs HD DVD high-def disc war, four of the eight major studios are backing Blu-ray exclusively, giving the format a major advantage in the number of title releases. Universal is the sole studio supporting HD DVD exclusively while three others are releasing titles in both formats.
Although Blu-ray title sales are outpacing HD DVD by a 2-1 margin, the format war is showing no signs of ending soon. However, that could change quickly if Universal decided to support both formats.
Blockbuster, the nation's largest video retailer, this month began offering Blu-ray exclusively in 1,450 stores across the country (although it still carries HD DVD in 250 stores.)
Ken Graffeo, executive vice president of Universal Studios Home Entertainment, says the studio currently has no plans to support Blu-ray.
"We're still at such an early stage that it's hard to gauge how (selling Blu-ray) would have any impact," Graffeo tells Variety. "When you sell six million standard-definition units of a title, and you're selling only about 70,000 in hi-def, it's hard to say, 'Wow, look at what we're leaving on the table.' "
Source (http://www.tvpredictions.com/universal071607.htm)
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Universal Readies 'Knocked Up' for September HD DVD Release
Universal Studios Home Video is reportedly planning to bring the summer blockbuster 'Knocked Up' to HD DVD this September, day-and-date with the standard-def DVD release.
Video Business has the early details, with Universal apparently planning to debut the summer comedy smash -- which has grossed over $140 million at the domestic box office and counting -- in R-rated and Unrated versions, the latter boasting an additional four minutes of unseen footage.
The HD DVD release is expected to include both versions of the film on a HD DVD/DVD combo disc(the unrated version in high-def, and the R-rated version on the standard-def flipside), as well as extensive extras still to be announced.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Disc_Announcements/Universal_Readies_Knocked_Up_for_September_HD_DVD_Release/772)
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HD DVD Outpacing All Next-Gen Formats in Sales Growth
LAS VEGAS, July 17 /PRNewswire/ -- At the Entertainment Merchants Association (EMA) Home Media Expo 2007, the North American HD DVD Promotional Group today announced that overall HD DVD hardware sales were up 37 percent from Q1 to Q2 2007, while software sales experienced a 20 percent increase in growth. The data is based on NPD reports, Nielsen Netratings reports and point of sale data from the studios. During the same time-frame, overall Blu-ray hardware sales saw a 27 percent decline from Q1 to Q2, and Blu-ray software sales were down 5 percent.
Driven by major spring marketing efforts which brought standalone HD DVD players down to an industry first $299, dedicated HD DVD CE players experienced an astounding 183 percent quarterly increase. There are currently more than 180,000 dedicated HD DVD CE players in the market.
"The numbers are clear -- HD DVD is steadily gaining momentum and market share," said Ken Graffeo, executive vice president of HD strategic marketing for Universal Studios Home Entertainment, and co-president of the HD DVD Promotional Group. "With HD DVD CE players now at MSRP prices starting at $299 and with strong marketing campaigns around new HD DVD titles with web-enabled interactive features, we're continuing to raise the bar for the consumer experience."
Recent studies(1) have shown most consumers are basing their purchasing decisions on pricing. Benefiting from more than a decade of DVD technology advancements and improvements, HD DVD hardware pricing has already dropped from $499 to $299 since the first players were introduced last year as a
result of manufacturing efficiencies, while still maintaining a consistent consumer experience.
"With the total number of titles available for each format differing by only 20-30 titles at this time, the real-world gap in content between the two formats is in actuality not as large as many would perceive," said Paul Erickson, market analyst with IMS Research. "Consumers in the US and Europe continue to show the greatest sensitivity to price, rather than content or branding, in their purchase decision for standalone high-definition players."
With titles like "300" coming later this month from Warner Home Video and "Heroes: Season 1" to be released in August from Universal Studios Home Entertainment, HD DVD owners will have close to 1,000 titles worldwide to choose from by the holidays.
http://www.TheLookAndSoundOfPerfect.com.
Source (http://www.prnewswire.com/)
Source (http://www.pocket-lint.co.uk/news/news.phtml/8781/9805/hd-dvd-blu-ray-sales-figures.phtml)
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Great News for Highdef Fans!!!!
Warner Announces 'Harry Potter' Films for Blu-ray, HD DVD
Ending months of speculation, Warner Home Video has at last announced the complete 'Harry Potter' franchise will be coming to HD DVD and Blu-ray this fall in a lavish multi-disc box set.
Dubbed 'Harry Potter Years 1-5 Limited Edition Gift Set,' Warner announced the long-awaited release during a special presentation at today's Home Media Expo in Los Angeles.
Though the studio did not have an exact street date as of yet, they did confirm that the release would include all five of the producer 'Harry Potter' films, including the current theatrical blockbuster 'Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.'
Pricing for the five-disc set will be $149.95 for both the BLu-ray and HD DVD versions.
No specs or supplemental details have been revealed. However, the set is expected to come in collectible packaging including exclusive Harry Potter memorabilia.
The studio has also not revealed when -- or if -- the 'Potter' titles will also be made available individually outside of the box set.
Considering one of the many "holy grails" yet to hit high-def, 'Harry Potter Years 1-5' is sure to be one of the holiday's most highly-anticipated titles, if not its biggest seller.
We'll certainly keep you posted as soon as further details are officially confirmed.
source:highdefdigest
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Phew...finally the great news is here na!!
HD fans can rejoice now! :D
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Great news paul, looks like hd fans will have thinner pockets this fall ;D
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Dubbed 'Harry Potter Years 1-5 Limited Edition Gift Set,'
However, the set is expected to come in collectible packaging including exclusive Harry Potter memorabilia.
True John...better save up now! :D
Gosh...my curiousity is killing me na...how would the packaging looks like? What memorabilia will be included? The snitch? The broom? The wizard stick? Ooh....pls give me some answers...!! ;D
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It has a MSRP of $150......with the usual Amazon discount....that may come up around $100-110.......not bad for a five title boxset actually, especially if it does come with souvenir items.
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And my wallet continues to shed more tears... :D
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And my wallet continues to shed more tears... :D
but tears of joy for our eyes and ears..... ;D
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^
Touché! ;D
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Good things come for those who wait indeed! ;D
5 disk Harry Potter collection and 5 Disc Blade Runner.
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Warner to Raise Next-Gen Bar with Five-Disc 'Blade Runner'
Still no release date, but more details have surfaced for Warner Home Video's highly-anticipated next-gen versions of 'Blade Runner,' which now promise to set a new capacity benchmark for a single-title release.
Music to the ears of sci-fi fans everywhere, Warner first announced that 'Blade Runner' would be getting the deluxe high-def treatment late last year. Only a few details have trickled out since, most notable among them that the studio is targeting an October time frame for a cross-platform release on Blu-ray, HD DVD and standard-def DVD.
Boasting a total of (count 'em, five!) discs, the next-gen release of 'Blade Runner' promises to set a new record in terms of number of discs for a single-title high-def release.
What exactly all those discs will house has yet to be revealed, but Warner has confirmed that 'Blade Runner' will be presented in multiple versions, including a recut 'Essential 25th Anniversary Edition' featuring both newly-shot and never-before-seen restored footage.
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Sony Goes to the 'Underworld' on Blu-ray this September
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3097/original.jpeg)
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced it will bring the Kate Beckinsale vampire opus 'Underworld' to Blu-ray in time for Halloween.
The hit action-horror thriller will sink its fangs into Blu-ray on September 25, in an unrated version boasting 12 minutes of footage to scary for the theaters.
No other supplemental details are yet known for 'Underworld,' but the disc is set to include a 1080p/AVC MPEG-transfer and uncompressed PCM 5.1 surround audio.
Sony has set a $28.95 list price for the release.
The studio has already released the film's sequel, 'Underworld: Evolution', earlier this year on Blu-ray.
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Warner to Raise Next-Gen Bar with Five-Disc 'Blade Runner'
I've been holding my breath for so many years (I still haven't got the SD DVD yet)....finally there's something to look forward...hopefully this is the ultimate edition :D
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Sony Unwraps 'Memoirs of a Geisha' on Blu-ray
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3101/original.jpeg)
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced it will bring the Oscar-winning spectacle 'Memoirs of a Geisha' to Blu-ray this September.
The lavish period epic, which took home four technical Academy Awards, will hit Blu-ray on September 25.
In addition to 1080p video and uncompressed PCM 5.1 audio, the supplemental package will be a slim one, with only a single production audio commentary among the bonus features.
Sony has set a $28.95 list price for the Blu-ray.
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'Departed,' 'Casino Royale' Nab Home Entertainment Award Honors
'The Departed' and 'Casino Royale' were the big high-def winners at this year's Entertainment Merchants Association's Home Entertainment Awards, announced last night at the Home Media Expo in Las Vegas.
'The Departed' scored with two awards, including HD DVD Title of the Year as well as DVD Rental Title of the Year, while 'Casino Royale' took home Blu-ray Title of the Year honors.
Earning the Hall of Fame Award was Warner's 'Casablanca,' currently available on both HD DVD and standard-def DVD.
This year marked the first to see the the Entertainment Merchants Association hand out awards for high-def formats. Eligible titles were released between April 1, 2006 and March 31, 2007. An EMA committee picked categories and nominees, and the winners were determined by EMA retail and distributor members.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/High-Def_Retailing/High-Def_Disc_Awards/Departed,_Casino_Royale_Nab_Home_Entertainment_Award_Honors/781)
complete list of award winners. (http://www.homemediaretailing.com/news/html/breaking_article.cfm?sec_id=2&&article_ID=10909)
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'Cars' Drives to Blu-ray this November
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Walt Disney Home Entertainment is reportedly planning to bring the Pixar blockbuster 'Cars' to Blu-ray this November in a feature-loaded special edition.
Hollywood in Hi-Def has the early details, quoting a Disney exec as saying the studio plans to debut the first-ever Pixar release on high-def November 6.
The Blu-ray version is expected to include all of the same supplements as the standard-def DVD release (which hit stores last fall), plus two new extras, exclusive to the Blu-ray edition. In addition to a new deleted scene, "Traffic," the 'Cars' Blu-ray is also set to feature a BD-Java enhanced "Car Finder," which will allow users to search for the more than 200 different cars featured in the movie, and even "race the clock" to find a specific car in a frozen frame of film.
The 'Cars' Blu-ray was originally expected to debut this past June, but the studio eventually delayed those plans, citing additional involvement from Pixar.
Disney has not officially confirmed the November 6 street date for 'Cars,' but as they have already announced, the studio does plan to offer demos of the 'Cars' Blu-ray and its bonus features during their eighteen-city road show that begins in August. So the signs definitely look good that 'Cars' will finally be revving up on Blu-ray this holiday season.
We've updated our listing for 'Cars' in our Blu-ray Release Schedule, now placing the title under November 6. We'll certainly keep you posted as soon as Disney officially announces the title. Stay tuned!
Source (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Disney/Disc_Announcements/Cars_Drives_to_Blu-ray_this_November/785)
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Anime Title 'Tekkonkinkreet' Headed to Blu-ray This Fall
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Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced it will bring its first anime title to Blu-ray this September, with the debut of 'Tekkonkinkreet.'
Based on Taiyo Matsumoto's serial manga, the film is currently enjoying a limited theatrical run in New York in Los Angeles, but it will make its high-def debut on September 25.
Specs include 1080p video and an uncompressed PCM 5.1 surround track in the film's native Japanese (an English Dolby Digital 5.1 dub is also provided).
Among the extras are an audio commentary with the filmmakers, a making-of featurette and an interview with the film's director, Michael Arias.
Sony has set a $28.95 list price for the release.
Source (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Sony/Disc_Announcements/Anime_Title_Tekkonkinkreet_Headed_to_Blu-ray_This_Fall/783)
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HDScape gives up HD DVD exclusivity, moves to Blu-ray ;)
Fairfield (NJ) - Another sign that HD DVD is losing ground, the once exclusive HD DVD company The DVD Acquisition and Development Group has announced it's moving to Blu-ray.
The low-profile DVD group is known for its series of HDScape movies on HD DVD. These are titles that act as high definition TV screensavers, showing scenes from the arctic, jungle, and fish tanks.
As a unique hi-def exclusive set of titles, it was a selling point for HD DVD. "Now is the ideal time to bring our library to the Blu-ray community, so that they can experience just how beautiful high definition artwork can be," said group president David Goodman.
The entire HDScape library will come out for Blu-ray on October 30. The HDScape Sampler Disc will be priced at around $7, with all other titles for around $30.
http://www.tgdaily.com/content/view/32976/118/
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'Heroes' HD DVD Previewed at Home Media Expo
Although it was just a teaser of what's promised to come later this month at Comic-Con, attendees at the Home Media Expo yesterday were treated to the very first peek at the 'Heroes: Season One' HD DVD.
Universal has been unusually coy regarding HD DVD exclusives planned for the title (due in stores Aug 28), delaying release of complete disc details until a special session at Comic-Con in late July, so you can imagine the surprise of attendees at the Home Media Expo when Microsoft's HD DVD evangelist Kevin Collins pulled out a check disc for the highly anticipated title and previewed about five minutes worth of content.
According to a report by Gord Lacey at TVShowsOnDVD.com, Collins showed a few scenes from the show, and then demo'd several of the disc's special features.
Among the previewed supplements: an interactive "Character Connections" screen, which provides a visual guide to the interconnections of the various characters on the show; the first of two "U-Control" features that allow viewers to take a closer look at Isaac's paintings (in scenes where they're included); and a second "U-Control" feature that displays the show's signature hidden helix when it appears in a given scene.
The surprise reveal came during one of several special sessions held this year for a delegation of DVD and high-def enthusiasts from a number of web sites, including the Home Theater Forum, The Digital Bits and TVShowsOnDVD.com.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Heroes_HD_DVD_Previewed_at_Home_Media_Expo/787)
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Universal Pledges Web-Enabled Features on All New HD DVD Titles
Committing to target "the MySpace generation," Universal VP Ken Graffeo announced Wednesday that the studio plans to include web-enabled features in all of its new releases on HD DVD, starting with 'Heroes: Season One' on August 28.
The move appears to be intended to emphasize a technical advantage of HD DVD over rival format Blu-ray, which has yet to roll out any discs with features that utilize internet connectivity.
Pointing out that Blu-ray players "don’t have the consistency in their machines to be able to handle this," Graffeo's remarks came as attendees at the Home Media Expo got the very first peek at scenes and features from the highly anticipated 'Heroes' HD DVD release.
Although execs at the show remained tight-lipped about exactly what type of web-connected features the 'Heroes' HD DVD will include, Universal's Graffeo likened them to those of the massive social network MySpace. "We are developing that same community," explained Graffeo. "With 'Heroes,' producer Tim Kring is very involved in letting HD DVD users exclusively participate in the Heroes community."
Expect more complete details about the 'Heroes' HD DVD release later this month from Comic-Con, where NBC-Universal is planning a session with the show's cast and crew.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Web-Enabled_Features/Industry_Trends/Universal/Universal_Pledges_Web-Enabled_Features_on_All_New_HD_DVD_Titles/786)
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Warner Wrangles a Trio of Western Classics for Blu-ray, HD DVD this Fall
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It's going to be a showdown at the high-def corral this September, when Warner Home Video saddles up a trio of western classics including 'Wild Bunch,' 'Wyatt Earp' and 'Gods and Generals.
Stampeding to stores on September 25, Warner will debut all three titles simultaneously on both Blu-ray and HD DVD.
The studio has not yet revealed any specs for the titles, though if past precedent is anything to go by, we can expect the same supplemental features as their standard-def DVD counterparts.
Note also that Warner has not yet specified whether both 'The Wild Bunch' and 'Wyatt Earp' will be the original theatrical cuts, or the extended versions the studio subsequently released on video. We'll keep you posted.
List price will go for a suggested $28.95 a pop.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Disc_Announcements/Warner_Wrangles_a_Trio_of_Western_Classics_for_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD_this_Fall/788)
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'Gothika' to Cast a Spell on Blu-ray, HD DVD This September
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Warner Home Video has announced that it will bring the Halle Berry horror-thriller 'Gothika' to HD DVD and Blu-ray disc this September.
One of Berry's first roles after her Best Actress Oscar win for 'Monster's Ball,' 'Gothika' scared up nearly $50 million at the domestic box office back in 2004, and later turned into a sizable hit on video.
Warner will debut the shocker on Blu-ray and HD DVD on September 25, in an extensive special edition that mirrors the two-disc standard-def DVD version.
In addition to 1080p video and Dolby Digital 5.1 surround audio, both next-gen versions will include audio commentary, multiple making-of featurettes, a music video and the theatrical trailer.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Disc_Announcements/Gothika_to_Cast_a_Spell_on_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD_This_September/790)
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'300' HD DVD to Include First Web-Enabled Transaction Opportunities
In another high-def first, Warner says it plans to utilize web-enabled features on its upcoming HD DVD edition of '300' to sell film-themed ringtones and cellphone wallpaper to the movie's next-gen fans.
As we've previously reported, Warner plans to release two separate-but-unequal next-gen editions of '300' on July 31st. While both the Blu-ray and the HD DVD editions will feature a wealth of supplements, the HD DVD will boast several exclusive interactive and web-enabled features, including the ability to re-edit and share versions of the film via a studio-hosted server.
Now comes word that another web-enabled feature on the '300' HD DVD will enable Warner to sell film-related merchandise via a disc for the first time.
The studio demo'd the new feature last week at the Home Media Expo in Las Vegas as part of a larger session focused on the studio's push into interactive features on high-def disc.
According to an account by Video Business, consumers will be able to use their HD DVD player remote to type in their cell phone number, which will then be sent instructions for how to access '300'-themed wallpaper and ringtones for $1.99 each.
Considering the fact that the purchase takes place on the phone (and not the disc itself), this one seems like a bit of a cheat to us, but it does represent another step forward for web-enabled interactivity via high-def disc.
The HD DVD camp appears to angling to make web-enabled features the next battlefront in the high-def format wars. Pointing out that Blu-ray players "don’t have the consistency in their machines to be able to handle this," Universal Studios VP Ken Graffeo announced plans late last week to begin including web-enabled features in all Universal HD DVD releases, beginning in late August with 'Heroes: Season One'.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Industry_Trends/Web-Enabled_Features/300_HD_DVD_to_Include_First_Web-Enabled_Transaction_Opportunities/793)
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Razor Digital Announces Blu-ray Support with Quartet of IMAX Classics
Indie distributor Razor Digital has announced it will throw its hat into the high-def ring this fall, exclusively supporting Blu-ray with an initial launch slate of four IMAX classics.
Arriving in stores November 13 will be a quartet of IMAX favorites: 'Africa: The Serengeti,' 'Alaska: Spirit of the Wild,' 'Australia: Land Beyond Time' and 'Antarctica: An Adventure of a Different Nature.'
Citing Blu-ray's larger installed hardware base for its exclusive support of the format, Razor Digital said they have no current plans to release on titles on HD DVD, although they didn't rule out the possibility.
"You have to respond to the marketplace," Mitch Perliss, Razor Digital EVP told Home Media Magazine. "We wanted to go worldwide (with the product), and we couldn't afford to do both (Blu-ray and HD DVD)."
Razor Digital has not yet released tech specs or supplemental details for its four IMAX launch titles, but we'll keep you posted.
Retail price will be a suggested $19.95 each.
In anticipation of full specs to come, we've added all four of Razor Digital's IMAX titles to our Blu-ray Release Schedule under November 13. Stay tuned for more details in the coming weeks.
Source (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Razor_Digital/IMAX/Disc_Announcements/Razor_Digital_Announces_Blu-ray_Support_with_Quartet_of_IMAX_Classics/799)
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Warner Summons 'The Reaping' on Blu-ray, HD DVD (UPDATED)
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UPDATE 07/23/07 (3:00pm ET): Since originally posting this article, Warner Home Video has confirmed to us that despite earlier information to the contrary, both next-gen editions of 'The Reaping' Blu-ray will include Dolby TrueHD tracks. (Thanks to Steve for the tip!)
Just in time for Halloween, Warner Home Video has announced it will bring horror-thriller 'The Reaping' to both next-gen formats this October.
Both next-gen versions are set to include Dolby TrueHD 5.1 surround tracks, and the same batch of supplements, including four featurettes and a "Scary Story," read by the movie's pint-sized co-star AnnaSophia Robb.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Disc_Announcements/Warner_Summons_The_Reaping_on_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD_(UPDATED)/795)
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Paramount Adds High-Res Audio to Blu-ray, HD DVD Menu
After eschewing high-resolution audio on its Blu-ray and HD DVD titles for over a year now, Paramount Home Entertainment has announced they will finally support the Dolby TrueHD and PCM formats on several upcoming next-gen releases.
Though Paramount's releases on both high-def formats have won praise for their generally high-quality transfers and for including most bonus features in full HD video, inexplicably they've not included high-res audio formats (such as Dolby TrueHD, DTS Master Lossless Audio and uncompressed PCM).
Full article (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Paramount/Disc_Announcements/Paramount_Adds_High-Res_Audio_to_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD_Menu/796)
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Bram Stoker's Dracula Announced
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced that they will be bringing 'Bram Stoker's Dracula' to Blu-ray on October 2nd. Considered one of the best Dracula movies of all time, the feature will be presented in 1.85:1 1080p video and PCM audio. No extras have been announced at this time, though expect many, if not all, from the DVD to be ported over.
Gary Oldman, Winona Ryder and Anthony Hopkins star in director Francis Ford Coppola's visually stunning, passionately seductive version of the classic Dracula legend. In BRAM STOKER'S DRACULA, Coppola returns to the original source of the Dracula myth, and from that gothic romance, he creates a modern masterpiece. Gary Oldman's metamorphosis as Dracula who grows from old to young, from man to beast is nothing short of amazing. Winona Ryder brings equal intensity to the role of a young beauty who becomes the object of Dracula's devastating desire. Anthony Hopkins co-stars as the famed doctor who dares to believe in Dracula, and then dares to confront him. Opulent, dazzling and utterly irresistible, this is Dracula as you've never seen him. And once you've seen BRAM STOKER'S DRACULA, you'll never forget it.
Source (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=339)
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Paramount Drops Curtain on 'Flashdance' Blu-ray, HD DVD
In a shuffling of its fall high-def slate, Paramount Home Entertainment has indefinitely postponed the planned October Blu-ray and HD DVD release of 'Flashdance.'
The blockbuster '80s musical -- which introduced the world to Jennifer Beals and ripped sweatshirts -- was originally announced for a simultaneous September 18 bow on both Blu-ray and HD DVD.
Full article (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Paramount/Street_Date_Delays/Paramount_Drops_Curtain_on_Flashdance_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD/798)
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I heard some HD DVD guy here is finally going BD because of this.... ;D
FUNimation Jumps Into Blu-ray with 'Dragonball Z'
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Top anime distributor FUNimation is jumping into Blu-ray, with the announcement of a 'Dragon Ball Z' double feature headed to high-def this November.
IGN broke the news of the upcoming announcement, which FUNimation is apparently planning to make later this week at this year's Comic-Con convention in San Diego, California.
Due in stores November 13, FUNimation's first Blu-ray release will be a Dragon Ball Z double feature, including the full-length features 'Broly: The Legendary Super Saiyan' and 'Broly: Second Coming' on a single disc. Both are currently two of the top-selling titles in the Dragon Ball Z franchise.
"After seeing demos of each next generation platform, it was clear that the Blu-ray platform was ideal for FUNimation," Ward Thomas, Senior Vice-President of Sales and Operations at FUNimation Entertainment told IGN. "The capabilities of the Blu-ray technology allows our fans to enjoy their favorite FUNimation titles like never before."
Both features have been remastered in 1080p high-definition, and will include newly-remixed 5.1 surround tracks (exact audio formats have not yet been announced).
The disc will also include a featurette on the restoration, "Dragon Ball Z: A New Look," which is also presented in full 1080p video.
FUNimation has not yet announced pricing details for its 'Dragon Ball Z' double-header, but we'll keep you posted as final details are officially announced.
We've added a new listing for FUNimation's debut next-gen title to our Blu-ray Release Schedule, under November 13.
SOURCE (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/FUNmation/Disc_Announcements/FUNimation_Jumps_Into_Blu-ray_with_Dragonball_Z/806)
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Warner Announces Quartet of Kubrick Classics for Blu-ray, HD DVD
Kubrick fans rejoice! After a year of waiting, Warner Home Video has finally announced the Blu-ray and HD DVD releases of a quartet of the director's most revered classics.
On October 23, Warner will debut remastered special editions of four Kubrick classics: '2001: A Space Odyssey,' 'A Clockwork Orange,' 'The Shining' and 'Eyes Wide Shut.'
The releases are set to debut simultaneously on Blu-ray, HD DVD and standard-def DVD, with each title available separately as a stand-alone release. Currently, the studio has not indicated whether the titles will also be bundled together as a box set collection.
Supplemental details for the four titles have also not yet been revealed, but tech specs on the next-gen versions will include 1080p video transfers and remixed Dolby TrueHD 5.1 audio tracks on both the Blu-ray and HD DVD editions.
Retail price is $28.99 a piece for each Kubrick classic.
In anticipation of the full press release with final confirmed details, we've added listings for all four titles to both our Blu-ray Release Schedule and HD DVD Release Schedule, under October 23. Needless to say, stay tuned!
SOURCE (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Disc_Announcements/Warner_Announces_Quartet_of_Kubrick_Classics_for_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD_/807)
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Amazon Offers Select Disney Blu-ray Discs at 46 Percent Off List
In the latest high-def disc sales promo, Amazon.com has lowered its prices on select Blu-ray discs by nearly fifty percent off the suggested retail price.
The list of 27 titles includes such favorites fans as 'Pearl Harbor,' 'Finding Neverland,' 'Chicago,' and 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy.'
Prices on discs included in the promotion range from $16.49 to $21.49, representing a savings of up to 46%.
There's word yet on how long this Disney Blu-ray sale will run, but similar promotions have been offered on a limited time basis only, so this one's worth jumping on quickly.
(UPDATE: Apparently Amazon isn't the only online retailer offering Disney Blu-ray titles at a discount this week -- both Buy.com and DVDEmpire have their own Disney Blu-ray sales going on. Happy shopping!)
The complete list of discounted titles follows:
(click linked titles to buy from Amazon)
Annapolis $19.49 (44% off)
The Brothers Grimm $19.49 (44% off)
Casanova $19.49 (44% off)
Chicago $19.49 (44% off)
Chicken Little $19.49 (44% off)
Dark Water $19.49 (44% off)
Dinosaur $19.49 (44% off)
Eight Below $19.49 (44% off)
Enemy of the State $19.49 (44% off)
Finding Neverland $16.49 (45% off)
Flightplan $19.49 (44% off)
G.I. Jane $16.49 (45% off)
Glory Road $19.49 (44% off)
Goal! - The Dream Begins $19.49 (44% off)
Gone in 60 Seconds $19.49 (44% off)
The Great Raid $19.49 (44% off)
The Guardian $19.49 (44% off)
The Haunted Mansion $16.49 (45% off)
The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy $18.99 (46% off)
Incincible $21.49 (46% off)
Jay & Silent Bob Strike Back $16.49 (45% off)
King Arthur $16.49 (45% off)
Ladder 49 $19.49 (44% off)
Pearl Harbor $19.49 (44% off)
Reign of Fire $19.49 (44% off)
Sky High $19.49 (44% off)
The Wild $19.49 (44% off)
SOURCE (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/High-Def_Retailing/Amazon/Amazon_Offers_Select_Disney_Blu-ray_Discs_at_46_Percent_Off_List/805)
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Caligula Revealed for Blu-ray
The Digital Bits is reporting that Image Entertainment is set to release the film 'Caligula' on Blu-ray later this year or early next, with other titles to be announced soon. If you don't know what 'Caligula' is, don't worry, most don't. The film was financed in part by Penthouse and goes into great detail of the reported sexual deviances of Roman Emperor Gaius Julius Germanicus.
No specs have been announced at this time, or what version of the film will be printed to disc. We'll keep you up to do date when we hear more.
source (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=346)
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MGM Is Back with Jeepers Creepers 2
MGM will be releasing 'Jeepers Creepers 2' for Blu-ray on September 11th, according to The Digital Bits. No specs have been announced at this time. As you may recall, MGM (along with their distributor 20th Century Fox) have been on Blu-ray hiatus since AACS was cracked many months ago. It now appears Fox is ready to get back in the game.
According to the Bits, Fox commented that they will be back soon and "in a big way". The forth quarter will be a huge push by Blu-ray studios, and it appears Fox is getting back in at the right time.
Source (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=347)
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I heard some HD DVD guy here is finally going BD because of this.... ;D
FUNimation Jumps Into Blu-ray with 'Dragonball Z'
Dam...not this too... :-[
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Warner Announces Quartet of Kubrick Classics for Blu-ray, HD DVD
Best news I've heard all day. I was actually watching my 2001 DVD last week and was hoping that they'd release this on HD soon. What I didn't expect was that we'd be getting The Shining and A Clockwork Orange at the same time! I can't wait!
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First Blockbuster. Now Target.
Target to Promote Blu-Ray DVD Format
http://www.forbes.com/feeds/ap/2007/07/25/ap3952696.html
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from HomeMediaMagazine.Com:
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Sony Has 'Close Encounters' on Blu-ray and DVD (http://www.homemediamagazine.com/news/html/breaking_article.cfm?sec_id=2&&article_ID=10946)
Author: THOMAS K. ARNOLD
[email protected]
Posted: July 26, 2007
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'Close Encounters of the Third Kind'
Steven Spielberg’s landmark film Close Encounters of the Third Kind is coming to DVD ($39.95) and Blu-ray Disc ($49.95) Nov. 13, four days shy of the 30th anniversary of its 1977 theatrical opening.
The Sony Pictures Home Entertainment release marks the first time a Spielberg movie has been issued on high-definition disc, and also is the first home video release of all three versions of the film: the 1977 original theatrical cut, the re-edited 1980 theatrical special edition, and Spielberg’s director’s cut, released in 1998.
Close Encounters of the Third Kind: 30th Anniversary Ultimate Edition also includes a new interview with Spielberg specially created for this release, a retrospective documentary, and, exclusive to the 50GB Blu-ray Disc edition, new “storyboard-to-scene” comparisons and the original 1977 “Watch the Skies” featurette.
Through a process known as “seamless branching,” the Blu-ray version contains all three films on a single disc. The process identifies the differences between each version of the film, segments the footage and then arranges it into three unique playlists, so that footage used in all three films is only included on the disc once — minimizing space requirements.
“When Steven Spielberg first released his iconic masterpiece, it was universally hailed for both its cutting-edge technological effects and its compelling message of hope,” says David Bishop, president of Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. “Now, on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of its release, it seems only appropriate to make all three versions of the film available on the most advanced high-definition format available, Blu-ray Disc, which will add yet another new and thrilling dimension to this timeless film.”
Close Encounters was nominated for eight Academy Awards, including best director, but only won one, for best cinematography. The Academy did give a special achievement award to Frank Warner for sound effects editing.
The original theatrical cut of the film opened in 1977 and has never been released on video. Three years later, Spielberg released a re-edited version of the film, first to theaters and then to videocassette, in which he deleted several smaller scenes and added others, including a sequence showing Richard Dreyfuss inside the alien mother ship at the end of the film. In 1998, Spielberg made more changes to the film, but restored the original ending, and Close Encounters went back out to theaters as well as DVD.
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from HomeMediaMagazine.com:
Disney's Third 'Pirates' Installment Coming to Video Dec. 4 (http://www.homemediamagazine.com/news/html/breaking_article.cfm?sec_id=2&&article_ID=10942)
Author: THOMAS K. ARNOLD
[email protected]
Posted: July 26, 2007
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The third “Pirates of the Caribbean” movie has become the first of the big summer theatrical blockbusters to be slotted for home video release in the fourth quarter.
Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End, which since its May 27 theatrical opening has grossed more than $301 million in U.S. theaters and a total of more than $946 million worldwide, will arrive on DVD and Blu-ray Disc Dec. 4, according to Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment.
The official announcement, expected to be made today at San Diego Comic-Con International, doesn’t come as much of a surprise, industry observers say. Disney is following the same strategy it successfully employed with the first two “Pirates” movies, which also were released on DVD in December at the tail end of the fourth quarter.
In each case, skeptics wondered whether such a late date would let the DVD pick up sufficient traction before the holidays hit, but each time Disney’s gamble that impulse buying and pent-up demand would send sales numbers through the roof paid off. Last December, consumers picked up 10.5 million DVDs of Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest in a single week, the biggest first-week tally of any DVD release that year. Three years earlier, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, also a December release, moved 11 million videos its first week in stores, 90% of them on DVD.
“Pirates” No. 3 didn’t fare as well at the box office as its two predecessors. The first “Pirates” grossed $305.4 million in U.S. theaters, while the second film in the franchise arrived on video with a domestic theatrical pedigree of $423 million. But Bob Chapek, president of Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment, is hoping for another sales record, particularly since the film will make its home video debut in three different versions: a single-disc DVD, a two-disc special edition DVD, and a high-definition Blu-ray Disc, the next-generation format rapidly building up steam among consumers.
“This December we’re thrilled to be giving ‘Pirates’ fans even more to cheer about as we bring the biggest worldwide box office hit of 2007 to DVD and high-definition Blu-ray Disc,” Chapek said. “Both versions will be loaded with stunning bonus materials that will make ‘Pirates’ the perfect gift this holiday.”
Indeed, both the two-disc “Pirates” DVD and the two-disc, 75GB Blu-ray Disc edition come with hours of bloopers and other extras, including a detailed breakdown of the “Maelstrom” sequence, a documentary on the history of piracy and the pirate code, a look at the relationship between Keith Richards and Johnny Depp; five individual documentaries on the film’s design teams, and featurettes on the special effects used to create multiple Captain Jacks; composer Hans Zimmer, who provided the score; Chow Yun-Fat, who plays the devious Captain Sao Feng; and the legendary Pirate Lords and their costume designs, origins and personalities.
The Blu-ray Disc edition also contains an interactive exploration of the “Maelstrom” battle sequence between the Black Pearl and the Flying Dutchman, with its groundbreaking blend of live-action footage and computer-aided special effects. The BD-Java feature, developed and produced by Disney and programmed by the Panasonic Hollywood Laboratory, lets viewers explore the Palmdale, Calif. hangar that housed the ships and sets, with in-feature pop-ups and icons that reveal multimedia content about how the maelstrom was created, from set construction to special effects. They can either explore the set on their own or take an hour-long tour hosted by film producer Jerry Bruckheimer.
Bruckheimer said the shoot was “so real [it helped the actors] get into character.” “On the other hand, they were pelted with 60-mile-an-hour winds and water and had stuff thrown at them,” he said.
Bruckheimer said he is a big fan of Blu-ray. He also had a hand in many of the extras on the discs, including the behind-the-scenes explorations of the movie-making process.
“I think the audience likes to see how things are made,” he said.
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Specs Revealed for Blade Runner at Comic Con
Warner Home Video has revealed the specs for the upcoming 5-dics Blu-ray edition of 'Blade Runner', which is to feature all five cuts of the film, including a brand new cut which director Ridley Scott is finishing in post-production right now. No price has yet to be set for the release, but it is due on store shelves December 18th.
A limited edition will be available to collectors, and will come packaged in a case which looks similar to Rick Deckard's own briefcase. Inside the case (which will be individually numbered) will be a frame of the original film, a miniature unicorn origami figurine, a miniature replica spinner car, a collector's photograph, and a letter from director Ridley Scott.
Details of contents of the Blu-ray edition:
Disc One:
RIDLEY SCOTT'S ALL-NEW "FINAL CUT" VERSION OF THE FILM
Restored and remastered with added & extended scenes, added lines, new and cleaner special effects and all new 5.1 Dolby Digital Audio. Also includes:
Commentary by Ridley Scott
Commentary by Executive Producer/ Co-Screenwriter Hampton Fancher and Co-Screenwriter David Peoples; Producer Michael Deely and production executive Katherine Haber
Commentaries by visual futurist Syd Mead; production designer Lawrence G. Paull, art director David L. Snyder and special photographic effects supervisors Douglas Trumbull, Richard Yuricich and David Dryer
Disc Two:
DOCUMENTARY DANGEROUS DAYS: MAKING BLADE RUNNER
A feature-length authoritative documentary revealing all the elements that shaped this hugely influential cinema landmark. Cast, crew, critics and colleagues give a behind-the-scenes, in-depth look at the film -- from its literary roots and inception through casting, production, visuals and special effects to its controversial legacy and place in Hollywood history.
Disc Three:
1982 THEATRICAL VERSION
This is the version that introduced U.S. movie-going audiences to a revolutionary film with a new and excitingly provocative vision of the near-future. It contains Deckard/Harrison Ford's character narration and has Deckard and Rachel's (Sean Young) “happy ending” escape scene.
1982 INTERNATIONAL VERSION
Also used on U.S. home video, laserdisc and cable releases up to 1992. This version is not rated, and contains some extended action scenes in contrast to the Theatrical Version.
1992 DIRECTOR'S CUT
The Director's Cut omits Deckard's voiceover narration and removes the "happy ending" finale. It adds the famously-controversial "unicorn" sequence, a vision that Deckard has which suggests that he, too, may be a replicant.
Disc Four:
BONUS DISC - “Enhancement Archive”
Featurette The Electric Dreamer: Remembering Philip K. Dick
Featurette Sacrificial Sheep: The Novel vs. The Film
Philip K. Dick: The Blade Runner Interviews (Audio)
Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep Cover Gallery (Images)
The Art of Blade Runner (Image Galleries)
Featurette Signs of the Times: Graphic Design
Featurette Fashion Forward: Wardrobe & Styling
Screen Tests: Rachel & Pris
Featurette The Light That Burns: Remembering Jordan Cronenweth
Unit Photography Gallery
Deleted & Alternate Scenes
1982 Promotional Featurettes
Trailers & TV Spots
Featurette Promoting Dystopia: Rendering the Poster Art
Marketing & Merchandise Gallery (Images)
Featurette Deck-A-Rep: The True Nature of Rick Deckard
Featurette Nexus Generation: Fans & Filmmakers
Disc 5:
WORKPRINT VERSION (newly remastered)
This rare version of the film is considered by some to be the most radically different of all the Blade Runner cuts. It includes an altered opening scene, no Deckard narration until the final scenes, no "unicorn" sequence, no Deckard/Rachel "happy ending,” altered lines between Batty (Rutger Hauer) and his creator Tyrell (Joe Turkell), alternate music and much more.
Commentary by Paul M. Sammon, author of Future Noir: The Making of Blade Runner
Featurette All Our Variant Futures: From Workprint to Final Cut
Source (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=352)
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'Twilight Zone: The Movie' Bound for HD DVD, Blu-ray This October
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After a ten-year absence, Warner Home Video is finally bringing 'Twilight Zone: The Movie' to disc in a cross format release to that will hit standard DVD, Blu-ray and HD DVD this October.
Despite being one of Warner's most highly-requested catalogue titles on DVD, the 1983 big-screen anthology -- featuring four segments directed by superstar filmmakers John Landis, Steven Spielberg, Joe Dante and George Miller -- hasn't been released on standard-def disc for over ten years.
Though the studio has not publicly commented on the decade-long 'Twilight Zone' DVD blackout, the delay has long been attributed to the film's tragic reputation following deadly accident that claimed the lives of actor Vic Morrow and two adolescent extras during production.
Now, TVShowsonDVD has the scoop that Warner is finally ready to lift the 'Twilight Zone' shroud and debut the controversial film simultaneously on Blu-ray, HD DVD and standard-def DVD October 9. Warner has set a suggested $28.95 MSRP for the Blu-ray and HD DVD editions.
No specs or supplemental details are known yet for the next-gen releases, but we'll certainly keep you posted.
In the meantime, we've added listings for 'Twilight Zone: The Movie' to both our Blu-ray Release Schedule and HD DVD Release Schedule, under October 9.
We've also set up dedicated threads for the announcement in our Forums area -- click the following links to discuss the 'Twilight Zone: The Movie' Blu-ray release and the 'Twilight Zone: The Movie' HD DVD release.
Source (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Disc_Announcements/Twilight_Zone:_The_Movie_Bound_for__HD_DVD,_Blu-ray_This_October/809)
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from www.blu-ray.com:
Paramount Postpones Zodiac Indefinitely
Posted July 26, 2007 by Josh
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Paramount Pictures Home Entertainment has revealed that they are postponing the release of the David Fincher thriller 'Zodiac' indefinitely. The reason cited was that Paramount wants to create a special edition version for the high definition release. We'll keep an eye on this highly anticipated hidef title.
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Specs Revealed for Blade Runner at Comic Con
Warner Home Video has revealed the specs for the upcoming 5-dics Blu-ray edition of 'Blade Runner', which is to feature all five cuts of the film, including a brand new cut which director Ridley Scott is finishing in post-production right now. No price has yet to be set for the release, but it is due on store shelves December 18th.
Wow...the 'Blade Runner: Ultimate Collector's Edition'!! :D Actually it also include HD DVD.
"After months of anticipation, Warner Home Video has finally unveiled full specs and a street date for 'Blade Runner: Ultimate Collector's Edition' on Blu-ray and HD DVD."
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Disc_Announcements/Blade_Runner_Specs,_Date_Revealed/814)
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Paramount Unveils 'Star Trek: The Original Series' HD DVD Details
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Be prepared to boldly go where no early adopter has gone before when Paramount Home Entertainment debuts 'Star Trek: The Original Series' on HD DVD this November.
Due in stores on November 10 as a HD DVD/DVD combo release, the entire 'Original Series' will come packaged as a massive ten-disc box set collection.
'Star Trek: The Original Series' will come housed in a special collectible "futuristic clear case," and will retail for a suggested list price of $217.99.
Full article (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Paramount/Disc_Announcements/Paramount_Unveils_Star_Trek:_The_Original_Series_HD_DVD_Details/815)
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Check this out guys :) ;) :D ;D
Thieves choose Blu-ray over HD DVD in mass disc heist
The high definition format war took an unexpected twist Sunday morning, when a group of thieves broke into a video store. What they took -- every Blu-ray movie in stock -- isn't as interesting as what they left behind. The gang ignored the HD DVD selection entirely, apparently deciding that only the BDA's baby was worth a five finger discount. Blockbuster choosing Blu-ray for its nationwide rollout is one thing, but being ignored when the price of acquisition is the low low price of free is a reality check for any fledgling standard. We suppose such early morning escapades are one way to build your library after getting the now lower-priced PS3, but it's not recommended. No word yet on if HD DVD fans are planning a coordinated group theft to reestablish the popularity of their chosen format.
http://www.engadget.com/2007/07/25/thieves-choose-blu-ray-over-hd-dvd-in-mass-disc-heist/
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Warner Sets Date For 'Return to House on Haunted Hill' on Blu-ray, HD DVD
Warner Home Video has announced full specs for the direct-to-video spook-sequel 'Return to House on Haunted Hill,' which is set to arrive on Blu-ray and HD DVD just in time for Halloween.
As originally announced last month, 'Return to House on Haunted Hill' will be the first in a pact between Warner and Dark Castle Entertainment to produce a series of new direct-to-DVD premiere horror titles.
Additional extras on both high-def releases will include an even more gruesome Unrated cut of the film, a making-of featurette, additional scenes, a music video, and "Character Confessions: Return to House on Haunted Hill Confessionals."
Full article (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Disc_Announcements/Warner_Sets_Date_For_Return_to_House_on_Haunted_Hill_on_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD/818)
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Complete 'Heroes: Season One' HD DVD Specs Revealed
....the seven-disc HD DVD set will feature all of the supplements from the standard-def release (including a never-before-seen 73-minute version of the premiere episode, fifty Deleted and Extended scenes, and various featurettes), plus a suite of high-def extras.
Included among the HD DVD exclusives will be a Picture-in-Picture Cast & Crew Commentary (on eight episodes); a "Character Connections" feature, which will allow viewers to isolate scenes featuring their favorite Heroes; an interactive "Helix Revealed" to help fans spot the hidden symbol as it appears in scenes from the show; plus an Artwork Presentation, providing the ability to examine art from the show in detail.
Full article (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Comic-Con/TV_on_High-Def/Universal/Complete_Heroes:_Season_One_HD_DVD_Specs_Revealed/819)
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Pixar Short Films Collection Dated
Buena Vista Home Entertainment has announced that the 'Pixar Short Films Collection' will make its way onto Blu-ray this November 6th. This disc will feature all 13 of the Pixar short films, including those which premier before Pixar films, and those that can be found on every Pixar DVD release. These shorts will be available for the first time in high definition. No specs have been released at this time.
Source (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=363)
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Lost: Season 3 on Blu-ray
Buena Vista Home Entertainment has confirmed that 'Lost: Season 3' will be coming to Blu-ray on December 11th, day and date with the DVD set. You may recall that this title was announced a few months back in a news article, before being denied by Disney. More details are to follow.
Source (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=362)
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Surf’s Up Comes to Blu-ray
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced that the animated film 'Surf's Up' will come to Blu-ray on October 9th, day and date with the DVD release. No specs have been announced at this time, but special features will include a three-part documentary on the making of the film, audio commentary, a music video, and more.
Complete Article (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=364)
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Target isn't Blu-ray exclusive at all, but BJ's Wholesale might be
Apparently Target's claim that they were "not proclaiming one format vs. the other as the preferred consumer technology" didn't resonate quickly enough to slow the "Target is going Blu-ray exclusive ZOMG" shockwave around the world yesterday. The HD DVD PR team sent us a statement from Universal Studios VP Ken Graffeo stating the deal amounted only to an "end cap" purchased by Sony putting its BDP-S300 in stores. Meanwhile Toshiba's HD DVD player will remain in Target's website, just as the Xbox 360 HD DVD add-on and HD DVD movies will stay in Target stores, they appear to have been rather unceremoniously dropped by smaller regional chain BJ's Wholesale Club, according to VideoBusiness. No official word from the chain itself, but the usual "sources" from the retailer and several Hollywood studios indicated all 170 stores would be Blu-ray only by the fourth quarter. Just like the BDA's CES victory proclamation, this likely isn't the end... just yet.
Source (http://www.engadgethd.com/2007/07/27/target-isnt-blu-ray-exclusive-at-all-but-bjs-wholesale-might/)
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Sony Serves Up the Blu-ray Carnage with 'Hostel' Double-Header
(http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/7922/originalku0.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
Welcome to the grindhouse: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced it will bring unrated versions of 'Hostel' and 'Hostel: Part II' to Blu-ray this October.
Just in time for Halloween, the controversial gore epics will make their Blu-ray debut on October 23, each including material even more shocking than its original theatrical versions.
Though 'Hostel II' failed to scare up the $50 million-plus domestic gross of its predecessor -- leading many to now suggest that the box office appeal of so-called "torture porn" is on the wane -- Sony is certainly pulling out all the stops in bringing the two films to high-def.
Oozing with extras, both 'Hostel' and 'Hostel: Part II' will include no fewer than three audio commentaries apiece, plus multiple making-of featurettes, deleted scenes, and more.
The first 'Hostel' will also feature the film's original ending, which was only seen during the film's original test screenings and is now much sought-after by die-hard 'Hostel' fans, and which director Eli Roth had this tantalizing tidbit to say at last week's ComiCon in San Diego:
"When you watch the director's cut ending -- this is the ending that could actually support a completely different sequel. We showed it to audiences and people just left the theatre genuinely upset and so we always said that we wanted people to be disturbed, but not, you know, ruined."
Additional tech specs include 1080p transfers and uncompressed PCM 5.1 surround tracks (48kHz/16-bit/6.9mpbs) on both discs.
Sony has set a suggested list price of $28.95 apiece for 'Hostel' and 'Hostel: Part II.' The studio has not yet indicated whether any sort of two-pack or box set collection of both titles will be made available.
Source (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Sony/Disc_Announcements/Sony_Serves_Up_the_Blu-ray_Carnage_with_Hostel_Double-Header/823)
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Japan's Adult Industry Given Access to Blu-ray
While the effect of adult films on the format war may be a heavily contested, the fact remains that there is a huge demand for this type of material. In Japan, the ability to release adult material on Blu-ray just got a whole lot easier. Assist Corp, who has handled most of the early adult Blu-ray content in Japan, has partnered with a company based in Taiwan to begin replication of adult titles. They are expected to begin production next month.
Sony has long mandated that, while they will not allow their own production facilities to replicate adult material, they will assist any company which wants to do so. With the addition of this new production facility (which purchased the manufacturing equipment directly from Sony), adult content producers now have an additional outlet to manufacturer their features in high definition.
Source (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=368)
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'Sopranos: Season 6, Part 2' Gets HD DVD, Blu-ray Date this October
Tony Soprano will take his curtain call on high-def this October, when Warner/HBO Home Video debuts 'The Sopranos: Season 6, Part 2' on Blu-ray and HD DVD.
The highly-acclaimed, Emmy-award winning HBO series -- which recently concluded its sixth and final season to big ratings this past spring -- will see its final bow hit high-def def on October 23.
Tech specs include 1080p transfers in 1.78:1 widescreen (audio details are not yet available).
Extras include audio commentaries with cast and crew on four episodes, a featurette focusing on the film's music, and a "mockumentary" on the horror-film-within-a-show "Cleaver."
Retail pricing has not yet been set for 'The Sopranos: Season 6, Part 2,' but we'll keep you posted.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Sopranos:_Season_6,_Part_2_Gets_HD_DVD,_Blu-ray__Date_this_October/824)
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Warner to Re-Issue 'Full Metal Jacket' in New 'Deluxe Edition' Blu-ray, HD DVD
Warner Home Video has confirmed to us that they will be re-issuing the Stanley Kubrick classic 'Full Metal Jacket' in a new "Deluxe Edition" on Blu-ray and HD DVD this October.
'Full Metal Jacket' was initially released on both next-gen formats in 2006, in feature-starved editions that were met with generally tepid reaction from early adopters and reviewers.
When Warnerunveiled plans last week for first-ever next-gen special editions of four other Kubrick classics due October 23 -- including 'A Clockwork Orange,' 'The Shining,' 'Eyes Wide Shut' and '2001: A Space Odyssey' -- 'Full Metal Jacket' was originally absent from that list, but as several eagle-eyed readers pointed out to us over the weekend, the studio has quietly added listings for a 'Full Metal Jacket: Deluxe Edition' to its list of press materials for its upcoming Kubrick collection.
The re-issue of 'Jacket' will join the quartet of other Kubrick releases hitting high-def on October 23, though no tech specs were immediately available on what (if any) elements of the release will receive an upgrade.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Disc_Announcements/Warner_to_Re-Issue_Full_Metal_Jacket_in_New_Deluxe_Edition_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD/826)
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from HomeMediaMagazine.com:
Disney's Third 'Pirates' Installment Coming to Video Dec. 4 (http://www.homemediamagazine.com/news/html/breaking_article.cfm?sec_id=2&&article_ID=10942)
Author: THOMAS K. ARNOLD
[email protected]
Posted: July 26, 2007
Email this Story to Friend
The third “Pirates of the Caribbean” movie has become the first of the big summer theatrical blockbusters to be slotted for home video release in the fourth quarter.
Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End, which since its May 27 theatrical opening has grossed more than $301 million in U.S. theaters and a total of more than $946 million worldwide, will arrive on DVD and Blu-ray Disc Dec. 4, according to Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment.
The official announcement, expected to be made today at San Diego Comic-Con International, doesn’t come as much of a surprise, industry observers say. Disney is following the same strategy it successfully employed with the first two “Pirates” movies, which also were released on DVD in December at the tail end of the fourth quarter.
In each case, skeptics wondered whether such a late date would let the DVD pick up sufficient traction before the holidays hit, but each time Disney’s gamble that impulse buying and pent-up demand would send sales numbers through the roof paid off. Last December, consumers picked up 10.5 million DVDs of Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest in a single week, the biggest first-week tally of any DVD release that year. Three years earlier, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, also a December release, moved 11 million videos its first week in stores, 90% of them on DVD.
“Pirates” No. 3 didn’t fare as well at the box office as its two predecessors. The first “Pirates” grossed $305.4 million in U.S. theaters, while the second film in the franchise arrived on video with a domestic theatrical pedigree of $423 million. But Bob Chapek, president of Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment, is hoping for another sales record, particularly since the film will make its home video debut in three different versions: a single-disc DVD, a two-disc special edition DVD, and a high-definition Blu-ray Disc, the next-generation format rapidly building up steam among consumers.
“This December we’re thrilled to be giving ‘Pirates’ fans even more to cheer about as we bring the biggest worldwide box office hit of 2007 to DVD and high-definition Blu-ray Disc,” Chapek said. “Both versions will be loaded with stunning bonus materials that will make ‘Pirates’ the perfect gift this holiday.”
Indeed, both the two-disc “Pirates” DVD and the two-disc, 75GB Blu-ray Disc edition come with hours of bloopers and other extras, including a detailed breakdown of the “Maelstrom” sequence, a documentary on the history of piracy and the pirate code, a look at the relationship between Keith Richards and Johnny Depp; five individual documentaries on the film’s design teams, and featurettes on the special effects used to create multiple Captain Jacks; composer Hans Zimmer, who provided the score; Chow Yun-Fat, who plays the devious Captain Sao Feng; and the legendary Pirate Lords and their costume designs, origins and personalities.
The Blu-ray Disc edition also contains an interactive exploration of the “Maelstrom” battle sequence between the Black Pearl and the Flying Dutchman, with its groundbreaking blend of live-action footage and computer-aided special effects. The BD-Java feature, developed and produced by Disney and programmed by the Panasonic Hollywood Laboratory, lets viewers explore the Palmdale, Calif. hangar that housed the ships and sets, with in-feature pop-ups and icons that reveal multimedia content about how the maelstrom was created, from set construction to special effects. They can either explore the set on their own or take an hour-long tour hosted by film producer Jerry Bruckheimer.
Bruckheimer said the shoot was “so real [it helped the actors] get into character.” “On the other hand, they were pelted with 60-mile-an-hour winds and water and had stuff thrown at them,” he said.
Bruckheimer said he is a big fan of Blu-ray. He also had a hand in many of the extras on the discs, including the behind-the-scenes explorations of the movie-making process.
“I think the audience likes to see how things are made,” he said.
got this artwork from blu-ray:
(http://images2.dvdempire.com/gen/movies/1358496h.jpg)
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Sony Unleashes Paul Verhoeven's 'Starship Troopers,' 'Hollow Man' on Blu-ray
It'll be a double dose of Paul Verhoeven on high-def when Sony Pictures Home Entertainment brings 'Starship Troopers' and 'Hollow Man' to Blu-ray this October.
Though neither film was a blockbuster at the box office, both flicks have garnered a cult audience on video and cable, with each spawning their own direct-to-video sequels (and in the case of 'Starship Troopers,' its own animated series).
Sony will bring both films to Blu-ray on October 16, with each enjoying 1080p transfers and uncompressed PCM 5.1 surround tracks.
Sony has not yet announced supplemental details for either release, but we'll keep you posted.
Retail price is $28.95 each.
'Starship Troopers' and 'Hollow Man' will hit high-def only three weeks after Sony debuts another Verhoeven title, the highly-acclaimed 'Black Book,' which is due for release on Blu-ray September 25.
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V for Vendetta Coming
(http://img410.imageshack.us/img410/2279/21734scan001122851lo200pt4.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
If you bought a copy of '300' in Canada today you also got a nice surprise in the form of a insert showing 'V for Vendetta' coming soon for Blu-ray. As one of the titles still missing on Blu-ray from Warner's high definition catalog, it is a welcome addition to their Blu-ray portfolio. No date or specs have been given at this time.
Source (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=372)
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Universal to Sow 'Seed of Chucky' on HD DVD
Get ready for everyone's favorite killer doll in high-def, when Universal Studios Home Entertainment unleashes 'Seed of Chucky' on HD DVD this Halloween.
The fifth in the seemingly unstoppable horror franchise, 'Seed of Chucky' will slash its way to HD DVD October 23 in a fully "loaded" special edition full of gory goodies.
Mirroring the standard-def DVD version, supplements include audio commentary with the filmmakers, multiple making-of featurettes, a subtitle trivia track, deleted scene and still gallery.
Specs include a 1080p/VC-1 encoded transfer, plus Dolby TrueHD and Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 surround tracks.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Disc_Announcements/Universal_to_Sow_Seed_of_Chucky_on_HD_DVD/831)
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'Alexander Revisited' Charges to HD DVD, Blu-ray This September
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After a six-month delay, Warner Home Video has announced it will at last bring Oliver Stone's 'Alexander: Revisited' to Blu-ray and HD DVD this September.
A critical and commercial bust upon its original theatrical release, Oliver Stone's 'Alexander' has already hit standard-def DVD in two separate versions -- the theatrical version, and a substantially shorter 'Director's Cut.'
Full article (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Disc_Announcements/Alexander_Revisited_Charges_to_HD_DVD,_Blu-ray_This_September/835)
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The Big Web Release Date!!!!
October 30
'Spider-Man' Trilogy to Spin Its Web on Blu-ray (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Sony/Disc_Announcements/Spider-Man_Trilogy_to_Spin_Its_Web_on_Blu-ray/838)
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Dam @#$%* darn...I knew this is gona happen soon.... :-\
All BD fans will have all the reasons to rejoice! Congrat to you guys in advance. :-[
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Its still a good three months off paul, more time to decide while you sit on the other fence.
Oh by the way, Ive just read an article in highdefdigest, the third generation of Tosh HD DVD players are arriving, even appeared in Amazon as pre-orders, but were pulled out. These are the ToShiba A3, A30 and A35. Rumored to be even cheaper than the previous models...
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Its still a good three months off paul, more time to decide while you sit on the other fence.
Oh by the way, Ive just read an article in highdefdigest, the third generation of Tosh HD DVD players are arriving, even appeared in Amazon as pre-orders, but were pulled out. These are the ToShiba A3, A30 and A35. Rumored to be even cheaper than the previous models...
Yep, Marvin. In fact I'm already considering those new BD models to be released in Oct for BJ compliance. I will opt for a standalone player as I'm not a gamer. My taerget is by Dec (fingers crossed) :)
Yes, I saw the new HD players in Amazon earlier...any news or article about their sudden "pull-out"? Hmm...I wonder if the "cheaper" price is a factor in this mystery... ;D
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(http://www.homemediamagazine.com/cmt_images/10990_news_image.jpg)
Time to save again!! ;D
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Spider-man 3 Specs
(http://img178.imageshack.us/img178/1474/original2cf372qb7.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
Scott Hettrick (HiHD) has revealed the specs for the upcoming two-disc Blu-ray release of 'Spider-man 3', as well as some additional info about the upcoming 'Spider-man High Definition Trilogy'. 'Spider-man 3' will feature all the extras from the 2-disc DVD release, and both 'Spider-man' and 'Spider-man 2' will be single disc releases, with the SM2 featuring both versions of the film via seamless branching. Both the 'Spider-man 3' and the Spider-man box set will be available October 30th.
Spider-Man™ 3 Two-Disc Special Edition DVD, Two-Disc Blu-ray™ High-Def
Disc One Special Features:
• Digitally Mastered Audio and Video
• Audio: English Dolby True HD 5.1, English PCM 5.1 (Uncompressed), French, Spanish, Portuguese, Thai 5.1 (Dolby Digital)
• Subtitles: English, English SDH, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Korean, Thai, Chinese Mandarin, Chinese Cantonese
• Bloopers
• Photo Galleries
• Snow Patrol Music Video
• Audio Commentary with Director Sam Raimi and Cast Members Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco, Thomas Haden Church, Topher Grace, and Bryce Dallas Howard
• Audio Commentary with Producers Laura Ziskin, Avi Arad and Grant Curtis, Editor Bob Murawski and Special Effects Supervisor Scott Stokdyk
• Closed Captioned
• Bonus Previews
Disc Two Special Features:
• Digitally Mastered Audio and Video
• Audio: English, Spanish 5.1 (Dolby Digital). English, Spanish (Dolby Surround)
• Subtitles: English, Spanish
• Featurette: Grains of Sand - Building Sandman
• Featurette: Re-Imagining the Goblin
• Featurette: Covered in Black – Creating Venom
• Featurette: Hanging On…Gwen Stacy and the Collapsing Floor
• Featurette: Fighting, Flying & Driving – The Stunts
• Featurette: Tangled Web: The Love Triangles of Spider-Man 3
• Featurette: Wall Of Water
• Featurette: On Location Cleveland – The Chase on Euclid Avenue
• Featurette: On Location New York –From Rooftops to Backstreets
• Featurette: The Science of Sound
• Featurette: Inside The Editing Room
• Theatrical TV Spots From Around the World
• Closed Captioned
Spider-Man™ 3 Blu-ray™ High-Def 2-DiscBD Catalog # 15932
UPC Code: 0-43396-15932-7
Order Date: 9/27/07
SLP: $49.95
Spider-Man™ Blu-ray™ High-Def 3-Pack
BD Catalog # 22633
UPC Code: 0-43396-22633-3
Order Date: 9/27/07
SLP: $98.95
Source (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=377)
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Dragon Ball Z Interview
(http://img178.imageshack.us/img178/7673/dbzbrolysecondcoming2a5yq4.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
Our good friends over at Anime on Blu-ray have an interview with FUNimation regarding their upcoming release of Dragon Ball Z: 'Broly: The Legendary Super Saiyan' and 'Broly: Second Coming'. Some specs were revealed, including that the video will be encoded at 1080p using AVC, and that audio will be some form of DTS, with the original Japanese track also available.
Interview (http://www.animeonblu-ray.com/forum/showtopic.php?tid/23032/)
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(http://www.homemediamagazine.com/cmt_images/10990_news_image.jpg)
Time to save again!! ;D
It's what I've been waiting for. Time to buy PS3!!!
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Toshiba to Announce 3rd Gen Players: 24fps, CE-Link, more
Toshiba's third generation family starts with the entry level HD-A3
player featuring 1080i output capability. The other two new models,
Toshiba's HD-A30 and HD-A35, will output 1080p resolution (1920 x 1080p),
the highest HD signal currently available. Both models are capable of
outputing signals at 1080p/24 frames per second so consumers can enjoy
movies in their native frame rate. The HD-A30 and HD-A35 models also
feature "CE-Link" (HDMI-CEC), allowing two- way control between the HD DVD
player and a TV through an HDMI connection.
The top-of-the-line HD-A35 also adds support for Deep Color via HDMI
allowing compatible display devices to deliver outstanding video quality -
displaying millions of possible colors to billions of possible colors.
Additionally, the HD-A35 offers 5.1 channel analog output and High Bit
Rate Audio (up to 7.1 channel) via HDMI. With content encoded in 7.1ch,
this advanced surround sound is achieved through the HDMI connection
bypassing the player's internal audio processor and sending the signal to a
7.1 capable A/V receiver. High Bit Rate Audio will allow the consumer to
integrate the HD-A35 with the latest multi-channel A/V receivers and enjoy
a whole new dimension of high definition home entertainment.
http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/s...04639654&EDATE= (http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/s...04639654&EDATE=)
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'300' Breaks Blu-ray, HD DVD Sales Records (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Disc_Sales/Warner/300_Breaks_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD_Sales_Records/844)
(http://img174.imageshack.us/img174/1093/originalpc8.gif) (http://imageshack.us)
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Kunting tiis na lang and the war will soon be over...
Universal Wants Format War to Continue
Speaking exclusively with HiHD's Scott Hettrick, Universal president Craig Kornblau admitted that his studio is in favor of the format war continuing, despite the negative effects it has on consumer adoption. While its hard to argue that this war has driven down hardware prices and increased quality of releases much faster than if there was only a single format, consumers have mostly stayed away from buying either until a victor can be decided.
Kornblau now believes that HD DVD's existence is so fragile, that if Universal were to decide to go neutral and start releasing on Blu-ray, HD DVD would cease to exist. In fact, they are so dedicated to HD DVD, that Universal has walked away from additional financial incentives to release Blu-ray content, besides the additional revenue they would make by releasing on the more consumer adopted format.
There is hope, however, that this war could soon be over. Kornblau admits that once players reach $200, consumers will begin making their decisions about which format to adopt, and that is when Universal will decide who to support. As we march towards the forth quarter, it is very realistic that Toshiba will slash the price of their players for a third time this year (in yet another act of desperation), paving way for a $200 player. If that happens, there is no reason Universal couldn't monitor the holiday sales and announce Blu-ray releases at CES 2008.
SOURCE (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=391)
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300 Sells 163K on Blu-ray
Earlier this week, Warner Home Video announced that their high definition releases of '300' sold a combined total of 250,000 units during its first week of sale. At that time, it was not revealed how many of those were Blu-ray and how many were HD DVD. Today, a blog post by USA Today writer Mike Snider indicates that the sales ratio was 65-to-35 in favor of Blu-ray, indicating around 163,000 copies of '300' on Blu-ray were sold.
This mirrors the over all 2-to-1 sales ratio advantage Blu-ray has maintained since the beginning of the year. While the HD DVD version of the film boasted extras not available on the Blu-ray, consumers overwhelming chose the Blu-ray version with its PCM audio track and scratch-resistant coating. While the percentages only represents initial estimates, it is a good indication as to the success of the Blu-ray format.
SOURCE (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=390)
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(http://dvd.themanroom.com/images/covers/bluray/large/3730.jpg)
'Blade Runner' - 5 Disc Collector's Edition on Blu-ray, Dec. 18
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from blu-ray:
(http://dvd.themanroom.com/images/covers/bluray/large/3897.jpg)
September 25th
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Also available on HD DVD
(http://dvd.themanroom.com/images/covers/hddvd/large/3896.jpg) (http://g-ec2.images-amazon.com/images/I/51GskdooIbL._SS500_.jpg)
September 25th / Dec. 18th
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Disney Serves Up 'Ratatouille' on Blu-ray this November
Hide the cheese! Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment has announced that the rats of 'Ratatouille' will make their Blu-ray debut this November.
Due in stores November 6, day-and-date with the standard-def DVD version, the Blu-ray edition of 'Ratatouille' will boast a 1080p transfer in the film's original 2.40:1 aspect ratio and uncompressed PCM 5.1 audio (at 48kHz/24-bit).
Among the bonus features will be a new documentary on the making of the film, deleted scenes and the short film "Your Friend the Rat." Extra exclusive to the Blu-ray include "Gusteau's Gourmet Game" and a "Cine-Explore" mode, which Disney is dubbing the "ultimate behind-the-scenes innovative experience." (We hope to get further information soon on just what exactly this feature entails -- stay tuned!)
Disney has set a $34.95 list price for the Blu-ray version of 'Ratatouille.'
November 6 is turning out to be a quite a day for Pixar releases on Blu-ray, with Disney also set to debut both 'Cars' and 'The Pixar Short Film Collection.'
Source:
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Disney/Pixar/Disc_Announcements/Disney_Serves_Up_Ratatouille_on_Blu-ray_this_November/852 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Disney/Pixar/Disc_Announcements/Disney_Serves_Up_Ratatouille_on_Blu-ray_this_November/852)
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Also available on HD DVD
(http://dvd.themanroom.com/images/covers/hddvd/large/3896.jpg) (http://g-ec2.images-amazon.com/images/I/51GskdooIbL._SS500_.jpg)
September 25th / Dec. 18th
ya definitely will get these. I love these movies..
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from blu-ray:
(http://www.loaded247.com/reg1full/30174.jpg)
(http://www.loaded247.com/reg1full/30144.jpg)
(http://www.loaded247.com/reg1full/30095.jpg)
(http://www.loaded247.com/reg1full/30097.jpg)
All available on October 2nd
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from blu-ray:
(http://img403.imageshack.us/img403/8923/ce3kbdev8.jpg)
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Mama mia...so many nice titles on the way.... :D
Moks007, prepare for heavy damages & for all Neutrals.... ;D
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yeah tell me about it hehehe ;D will definitely get the jack ryan collection
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Mama mia...so many nice titles on the way.... :D
Moks007, prepare for heavy damages & for all Neutrals.... ;D
Ya Paul, a lot of nice titles on the way, indeed will be damaging. Im already starting to sell some of my stuff (Playstation 2 and double dip dvds that will come out in hidef ) so I can have some cash for these titles hehe..Yesterday sold my Playstation 2 for 4 thou to my wifes sister in-law's brother hehe..Im consolidating na the dvds that im gonna sell hehe..
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from blu-ray (available on Nov 6th):
(http://dvd.themanroom.com/images/covers/bluray/large/3996.jpg)
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wishing they would release all pixar movies soon...
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Blu-ray Players Outpassing Rival HD DVD
Retailers are reporting that, despite HD DVD's price advantage, Blu-ray stand alone players are selling better than HD DVD stand alone players, and could be selling much more if supply could keep up with demand. Abt Electronics and Ultimate Electronics have reported that sales of Blu-ray players have increased dramatically since the introduction of low cost 2nd-generation players, and that current supplies are very tight.
John Abt, VP of Abt Electronics commented, "With all of the introductions of Blu-ray product, we have seen more sales in BD than in HD DVD, because there are so many options now out for consumers."
“We were seeing a 50/50 split in unit sales,” Bjorn Dybdahl, president of Bjorn's said. “That was primarily all three Toshiba players versus Sony's $499 players. If the Blu-ray group wants to put a death knell on HD DVD, then they need to get it everywhere very quickly.”
Source (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=395)
Add'l Link (http://www.videobusiness.com/index.asp?layout=article&articleid=CA6467868)
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kawawa si HD DVD :( :-[ :'(
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from blu-ray:
(http://img519.imageshack.us/img519/1444/pixshortslgtt5.jpg)
(http://www.loaded247.com/reg1full/30186.jpg)
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Blu-ray Players Outpassing Rival HD DVD
Retailers are reporting that, despite HD DVD's price advantage, Blu-ray stand alone players are selling better than HD DVD stand alone players, and could be selling much more if supply could keep up with demand. Abt Electronics and Ultimate Electronics have reported that sales of Blu-ray players have increased dramatically since the introduction of low cost 2nd-generation players, and that current supplies are very tight.
John Abt, VP of Abt Electronics commented, "With all of the introductions of Blu-ray product, we have seen more sales in BD than in HD DVD, because there are so many options now out for consumers."
“We were seeing a 50/50 split in unit sales,” Bjorn Dybdahl, president of Bjorn's said. “That was primarily all three Toshiba players versus Sony's $499 players. If the Blu-ray group wants to put a death knell on HD DVD, then they need to get it everywhere very quickly.”
Source (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=395)
Add'l Link (http://www.videobusiness.com/index.asp?layout=article&articleid=CA6467868)
??? . . . another Sony press prank vs. the upcoming 3rd gen. Toshiba players? :D Latest NPD report is 61/36% market share in favor of HD DVD players. Hmm, I think that's not hard to beat esp. when BD titles start flooding on the last quarter & PS3 goes down to . . . $199 :D i wish
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Universal Brings 'Evan Almighty' to HD DVD this October
Universal Studios Home Entertainment has announced it will bring the box office underachiever 'Evan Almighty' to HD DVD this October.
A sequel to the 2002 Jim Carrey blockbuster 'Bruce Almighty' (which hit HD DVD earlier this year), 'Evan Almighty' was seen as something of a disappointment at the box office this past summer despite the presence of red-hot Steve Carell. Though it cracked the $100 million mark in domestic receipts, with a reported gargantuan production budget north of $180 million, the film had little hope of turning a profit.
Regardless, Universal will give 'Evan Almighty' the full special edition treatment on video when it releases day-and-date HD DVD and DVD versions on October 9.
Tech specs include 1080p/VC-1 video and a Dolby TrueHD 5.1 surround track, plus Dolby Digital-Plus options in English, French and Spanish.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Disc_Announcements/Universal_Brings_Evan_Almighty_to_HD_DVD_this_October/854)
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Amazon Bundles Xbox 360 Elite with HD DVD add-on and Seven Discs for $599
Sweetening the pot for Xbox fans who may be considering stepping up to HD DVD, Amazon has begun offering a new bundle with sales of the 120GB Xbox 360 Elite.
Priced at $599, included in the bundle is the game console itself, the Xbox 360 HD DVD add-on player, and copies of both '300' and 'King Kong' on HD DVD. Add to that the HD DVD camp's ongoing "Five Discs Free" promo, and the deal represents an effective savings of more than $240.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Bundles/Amazon/Xbox_360/Amazon_Bundles_Xbox_360_Elite_with_HD_DVD_add-on_and_Seven_Discs_for_$599/855)
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Battle of HD DVD, Blu-ray formats leaves movie viewers frustrated
People who own an HD DVD player can forget about watching Spider-Man 3 in high definition when it goes on sale during the holiday season. The movie from Sony Pictures will be available only in the Blu-ray DVD format.
Likewise, people with Blu-ray players won't be able to enjoy the action-thriller The Bourne Ultimatum, which Universal Pictures will release only in HD DVD.
****
Chinese-made HD DVD players selling for $199 are expected to hit store shelves by December, while Sony is widely expected to cut the cost of its Blu-ray machine to as low as $299 by year's end.
"When that occurs, the studios and Sony are going to pull out the big guns," said Phillip Swann, president of the technology-oriented Web site TVpredictions.com. "They are going to release more titles, big titles, and really go for the kill this holiday season."
Full Article (http://www.tennessean.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070813/BUSINESS01/708130340)
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revised artwork from blu-ray:
(http://www.loaded247.com/reg1full/30139.jpg)
Available on Dec 4th
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'Battlestar Galactica' Blasts Off on HD DVD
Universal Studios Home Entertainment has announced it will bring the original Sci-Fi Channel mini-series and complete first season of 'Battlestar Galactica' to HD DVD in one elaborate box set this holiday season.
The acclaimed cult TV series (now in its fourth and final season on the Sci-Fi Channel) will make its highly-anticipated next-gen bow on December 4.
Featuring the original 2003 mini-series, the full pilot episode and the complete first season of the show, Universal will roll out the high-def red carpet for 'Battlestar,' in a six-disc set brimming with supplements.
In addition to audio commentary with creator Ronald D. Moore (and guests) on the complete mini-series, pilot and nine additional episodes, extras include more than a half-dozen featurettes, multiple deleted scenes, a still gallery and the "Encyclopedia Galactica," an interactive guide including ships, characters, colonies and flight training manual.
Also exclusive to the HD DVD release will be a picture-in-picture video commentary on the entire mini-series, featuring Moore, cast and crew and additional making-of footage.
Tech specs include 1080p/VC-1 transfers of the mini-series and each episode in 1.78:1 widescreen, plus Dolby TrueHD 5.1 surround and Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 surround audio options.
Universal has set a suggested $99.98 for the set.
There will be no shortage of supplemental materials spread across all the discs, although the only new material appears to be picture-in-picture commentaries on a couple select episodes. Below is a disc-by-disc breakdown of what you can expect.
Disc One
Encyclopedia Galactica - An interactive guide including ships, characters, colonies and flight training manual
Picture in Picture - Behind the Scenes of the Mini Series
Deleted Scenes - Mini Series
Sketches and Art
From Miniseries to Series
Change Is Good, Now They're Babes
The Cylon Centurion
Future/Past Technology
The Doctor Is Out (Of His Mind)
Production
Visual Effects
Epilogue
Feature Commentary with Director Michael Rymer and Executive Producers David Eick and Ronald D. Moore
Disc Two
Encyclopedia Galactica - An interactive guide including ships, characters, colonies and flight training manual
Picture in Picture - Behind the Scenes of the Mini Series
Deleted Scenes
Fearture Commentary with Director Michael Rymer and Executive Producers David Eick and Ronald D. Moore
Pilot Commentary with Director Michael Rymer and Executive Producers David Eick and Ronald D. Moore
Disc Three
Deleted Scenes
Episode 103 "Bastille Day" Commentary with Ronald D. Moore and David Eick
Episode 104 "Act of Contrition" Commentary with Ronald D. Moore and David Eick
Disc Four
Deleted Scenes
Episode 105 "You Can't Go Home Again" Commentary with Ronald D. Moore and David Eick
Disc Five
Deleted Scenes
Episode 109 "Tigh Me Up, Tigh Me Down" Commentary with Executive Producer Ronald D. Moore
Episode 110 "The Hand of God" Commentary with Executive Producer Ronald D. Moore
Disc Six
Deleted Scenes
Episode 111 "Colonial Day" Commentary with Executive Producer Ronald D. Moore
Episode 112 "Kobol's Last Gleaming" Pt 1 Commentary with Executive Producer Ronald D. Moore
Episode 113 "Kobol's Last Gleaming" Pt. 2 Commentary with Executive Producer Ronald D. Moore
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Hybrid Player Price War Brewing? LG Lowers Price of 'Super Blu' HD DVD/Blu-ray Player
With the arrival of Samsung's $1,049 dual-format player on the horizon for this fall, LG has lowered the price of its existing BH100 HD DVD/Blu-ray player by $200.
The first dual-format player to hit stores shelves, LG's BH100 has remained at its original retail price of $1,199 since its introduction earlier this year.
Full article (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Samsung/Hardware/LG/Hybrid_Player_Price_War_Brewing_LG_Lowers_Price_of_Super_Blu_HD_DVD/Blu-ray_Player/857)
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HOLY FRAK! I am so all over that BSG Season 1 set!!!
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For those HD DVD fans that love FF, you may have to import these movies.
(http://img.1advd.ch/imgbc/ws9xbspktdx4gpg1mucuf.jpg) (http://img.1advd.ch/imgbc/fantasic%5Ffour%5Frise%5Fof%5Fthe%5Fsilver%5Fhddvd%5Frc2f.jpg)
Source FF (http://www.1advd.ch/Default.asp?idlnk=4688656)
Source FF2 (http://www.1advd.ch/Default.asp?idlnk=4767215)
It's a German site :)
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Blu-ray outpaces HD-DVD in U.S.: Home Media Research
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Blu-ray high-definition movie discs outsold films on the rival HD-DVD format by 2-to-1 in the United States in the first half of 2007, Home Media Research said on Tuesday.
The division of Home Media Magazine said total sales of Blu-ray discs, using a Sony Corp (6758.T: Quote, Profile, Research)-backed technology, totaled 1.6 million units from January 1 through July 1, compared with 795,000 HD-DVD discs sold in that period.
HD-DVD was developed by Toshiba Corp (6502.T: Quote, Profile, Research) and backed by Microsoft Corp (MSFT.O: Quote, Profile, Research) and film studios such as Warner Bros.
Both formats were launched in spring of 2006. An estimated 3.7 million high-definition discs have been sold, including 2.2 million in Blu-ray and 1.5 million in HD-DVD through the end of July, according to Home Media.
A Home Media spokeswoman said Blu-ray got a further boost in August from strong sales of the "300" title. Stephen Nickerson, senior vice president, market management at Warner Home Video (TWX.N: Quote, Profile, Research), reported sales of about 190,000 Blu-ray units of the film, versus 97,000 in HD-DVD since July 31.
The industry-wide standards war is reminiscent of the VHS and Betamax battle.
Blockbuster Inc (BBI.N: Quote, Profile, Research), the largest U.S. provider of home movie entertainment, in June set out plans to line its shelves with Blu-ray DVDs, saying Blu-ray rentals were "significantly outpacing" HD-DVD rentals.
Reuters (http://uk.reuters.com/article/technologyNews/idUKN1419176920070815)
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from blu-ray:
(http://www.loaded247.com/reg1full/30129.jpg)
Available on October 2nd
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Warner Goes Non-Combo with Wave of HD DVD Re-Issues
Becoming the second studio to "demote" several of its previously-released HD DVD/DVD combo releases, Warner Home Video has announced plans to re-issue a wave of eleven titles in stand-alone HD DVD editions this fall.
On October 2, Warner will discontinue the previous combo versions of the following titles and re-issue them in HD DVD-only versions, at two different price tiers:
Reduced from $39.98 to $34.95 will be the recent theatrical releases 'The Ant Bully,' 'The Fountain,' 'Happy Feet,' 'Lady in the Water,' 'The Lake House,' 'Letters from Iwo Jima,' 'Rumor Has It...,' plus Martin Scorsese's Oscar-winning 'The Departed,' and one of 2006's top-selling high-def titles, 'Superman Returns.'
Slashed to an even cheaper $28.99 are the catalog titles 'Good Night, and Good Luck' and 'Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang.'
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Combo_Discs/Disc_Announcements/Warner_Goes_Non-Combo_with_Wave_of_HD_DVD_Re-Issues/866)
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New Edition of 'Digital Video Essentials' Bound for Blu-ray, HD DVD
HD guru Joe Kane is readying the successor to his popular 'Digital Video Essentials' calibration tool with the release of 'DVE: HD Basics' on Blu-ray and HD DVD this fall.
'HD Basics' follows 'Digital Video Essentials,' which after a lengthy series of street date delays finally hit HD DVD this past April to much acclaim. 'HD Basics' will not only mark the first calibration disc from Kane tailored specifically for the high-def market, but also his first to be released on Blu-ray.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/DVD_International/Disc_Announcements/New_Edition_of_Digital_Video_Essentials_Bound_for_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD/867)
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Polar Express Announced for Blu-ray
Warner Home Video has announced that the CGI animated film 'The Polar Express' will be released for Blu-ray on October 30th. The film will come on a BD-25 with 2.40:1 1080p VC-1 video and a Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtrack. This film was previously released on HD DVD, and is one of the "make-up" titles which Warner promised to release before the end of the year.
source (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=404)
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Face/Off and Jack Ryan Collection Delayed
Paramount Home Entertainment has updated their release schedule, and two upcoming titles have been delayed into October. The John Woo action film 'Face/Off' has been delayed from September 11th to October 30th. Also, an interesting note, the "2-disc" verbiage has been removed from the cover, though no specs have changed. The upcoming 'Jack Ryan Collection' has also been delayed, from September 25th to October 23rd. No specs have been changed.
source (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=405)
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Face/Off and Jack Ryan Collection Delayed
Oh many fans will be disappointed of the delay.... :-\
The consolation is there's really no rush in view there are still many other available tittles for purchase & it's pretty heavy na for the wallet. It's good to have some time to recuperate.... :P
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Disney: 'Narnia,' 'Nemo' and 'Sleeping Beauty' Coming to Blu-ray in 2008
(http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/3612/originalqp5.gif) (http://imageshack.us)
The sort of announcement you'd expect to be made at CES (and not in the dead of August), Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment has issued a press release previewing four of its top Blu-ray titles for 2008.
Referenced in the release for the first time publicly are upcoming Blu-ray releases for 'Sleeping Beauty' (Disney's first classic animated title to hit next-gen disc), 'Finding Nemo,' 'National Treasure,' and 'The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe.'
Though exact street dates have not yet been announced, the studio has provided seasonal guidance for all four titles, and promises each will push the boundaries of what has been seen so far on the Blu-ray format.
First up in the Spring of 2008 will be the recent family hit 'The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe,' which is slated to among the first Disney titles to include Picture-in-Picture bonus content.
Next, in the Summer of '08, the studio plans to debut its first BD-Live Blu-ray Disc title, the action-adventure blockbuster 'National Treasure.'
The Fall will see the release of two highly anticipated animated titles -- Pixar's 'Finding Nemo,' and -- in what promises to be a milestone release -- 'Sleeping Beauty,' which will be the first Blu-ray title to bear the studio's "Platinum Series" banner.
"The Platinum titles are the crown jewels of the Disney Studios and we do not take releasing them lightly on any format," said Bob Chapek, President of Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment. "The proven Blu-ray technology has allowed us to take our films to new heights, fully utilizing the larger capacity and interactive capabilities for an incredible all-new consumer experience."
The 'Sleeping Beauty' Blu-ray is slated to include a "Virtual Castle" and multi-player activities -- both utilizing BD-Live technology.
source (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Disney/BD-Java/Disc_Announcements/Disney:_Narnia,_Nemo_and_Sleeping_Beauty_Coming_to_Blu-ray_in_2008/870)
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Warner Goes Non-Combo with Wave of HD DVD Re-Issues
Becoming the second studio to "demote" several of its previously-released HD DVD/DVD combo releases, Warner Home Video has announced plans to re-issue a wave of eleven titles in stand-alone HD DVD editions this fall.
On October 2, Warner will discontinue the previous combo versions of the following titles and re-issue them in HD DVD-only versions, at two different price tiers:
Reduced from $39.98 to $34.95 will be the recent theatrical releases 'The Ant Bully,' 'The Fountain,' 'Happy Feet,' 'Lady in the Water,' 'The Lake House,' 'Letters from Iwo Jima,' 'Rumor Has It...,' plus Martin Scorsese's Oscar-winning 'The Departed,' and one of 2006's top-selling high-def titles, 'Superman Returns.'
Slashed to an even cheaper $28.99 are the catalog titles 'Good Night, and Good Luck' and 'Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang.'
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Combo_Discs/Disc_Announcements/Warner_Goes_Non-Combo_with_Wave_of_HD_DVD_Re-Issues/866)
hay naku finally. one of the best decisions ever by warner, my dream list include letters of iwo, departed and superman returns, maybe kiss kiss bang bang
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from blu-ray:
(http://www.loaded247.com/reg1full/30076.jpg)
Available on September 25th.
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Warner Goes Non-Combo with Wave of HD DVD Re-Issues
Becoming the second studio to "demote" several of its previously-released HD DVD/DVD combo releases, Warner Home Video has announced plans to re-issue a wave of eleven titles in stand-alone HD DVD editions this fall.
On October 2, Warner will discontinue the previous combo versions of the following titles and re-issue them in HD DVD-only versions, at two different price tiers:
Reduced from $39.98 to $34.95 will be the recent theatrical releases 'The Ant Bully,' 'The Fountain,' 'Happy Feet,' 'Lady in the Water,' 'The Lake House,' 'Letters from Iwo Jima,' 'Rumor Has It...,' plus Martin Scorsese's Oscar-winning 'The Departed,' and one of 2006's top-selling high-def titles, 'Superman Returns.'
Slashed to an even cheaper $28.99 are the catalog titles 'Good Night, and Good Luck' and 'Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang.'
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Combo_Discs/Disc_Announcements/Warner_Goes_Non-Combo_with_Wave_of_HD_DVD_Re-Issues/866)
uy good news! less $5 din e2 i hope Universal will follow soon.
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Disney announces BD-Live and PIP-enabled titles for 2008
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Announce
WALT DISNEY STUDIOS HOME ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCES
THE DISNEY BLU-RAY TITLE WAVE COMING 2008
Burbank, CA, August 17, 2007 -- Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment (WDSHE) announced today more innovations in the Blu-ray format with the Studio's first ever Platinum Blu-ray release, the Studio's first BD-Live title, and full motion picture-in-picture Blu-ray bonus features.
The Studio announced the first animated Platinum coming to Blu-ray will be the timeless treasure Sleeping Beauty. Releasing Sleeping Beauty on Blu-ray marks a milestone for the format as these titles are not released until a format has been proven both technologically and in terms of consumer acceptance -- and Disney's animated releases in the past have been a major catalysis for any format's growth. Pinocchio's release on VHS and Snow White's release on DVD marked major growth milestones for both of those formats. The Sleeping Beauty Blu-ray Disc release will also include a virtual castle and multi-player activities -- both utilizing the BD-Live technology.
"The Platinum titles are the crown jewels of the Disney Studios and we do not take releasing them lightly on any format. The proven Blu-ray technology has allowed us to take our films to new heights, fully utilizing the larger capacity and interactive capabilities for an incredible all-new consumer experience," commented Bob Chapek, President of Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment.
In addition, WDSHE announced the special edition release of the action-adventure blockbuster National Treasure, which will become the Studio's first BD-Live Blu-ray Disc title. In addition, the Studio will bring two of its treasured family classics to Blu-ray Disc, Disney/Pixar's Finding Nemo and The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, both of which will feature full motion picture-in-picture bonus features,
"The strides that we've made with this format are just the tip of the iceberg and we are confident that consumers will be astounded by the level of entertainment that can only be achieved by using the maximum capacity of the Blu-ray Disc format. All of these wonderful titles will appeal to the ever growing Blu-ray market and we are extremely proud to offer these in the most pristine and robust presentations ever for Disney fans around the globe," continued Chapek.
This exciting slate of Blu-ray Disc releases will begin with The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe in spring 2008, followed by National Treasure in summer of 2008 and culminating with Disney/Pixar's Finding Nemo and Sleeping Beauty in fall 2008.
About Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment, a recognized leader in the home entertainment industry, is the marketing, sales and distribution company for Walt Disney, Touchstone, Hollywood Pictures, Miramax and Buena Vista product which includes DVD, Blu-ray Disc, and electronic distribution. Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment is a division of The Walt Disney Studios.
http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/pressrelease_disney2008bluray.html (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/pressrelease_disney2008bluray.html)
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from blur-ray:
Oldboy Delayed to November; Specs Announced
Posted August 20, 2007 by Josh
Tartan Video has revealed that their first US Blu-ray release, 'Oldboy', has been delayed from its original October 23rd release date until November 6th. The movie will come in an unrated form on a BD-50 (some extras on the packed-in DVD). Video will be encoded using AVC and feature a Korean DTS-HD audio track. Extras include numerous commentaries, deleted scenes, featurettes, a documentary, and trailers.
After a drunken night on the town, a family man with a wife and daughter comes to in an apartment he doesn't recognize. He's held captive there by an unknown enemy. His only company is a television. A news broadcast informs him that his wife has been murdered, and he has been implicated as the killer. Fifteen years later, he's finally set free from his surreal prison. He has five days to find out who captured him, and why.
(http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3376/original.jpeg)
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from blu-ray:
Ocean's Box Set Coming Soon to Blu-ray
Posted August 17, 2007 by Josh
Warner Home Video has revealed that they will release the three "Ocean's" movies - 'Ocean's 11', 'Ocean's 12', and 'Ocean's 13' - on Blu-ray this fall as a high definition box set. The releases will feature exclusive bonus content only available on the high definition releases, including deleted scenes and never before seen footage. No specs have been announced at this time.
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Listed below are the upcoming Blu-ray Disc releases from Fox and MGM excluding new theatrical day & date BD/DVD releases. EXACT TITLE CONFIGURATIONS TO FOLLOW IN THE COMING WEEKS.
TITLE....................................N.A. RELEASE ..................INTERNATIONAL RELEASE
MASTER & COMMANDER ...........OCT. 2............................ OCT.
THE DAY AFTER TOMORROW ....OCT. 2 ............................NOV.
FROM HELL ............................OCT. 9 ............................OCT.
THE FLY (1986) ......................OCT. 9 .............................Q1 08
EDWARD SCISSORHANDS `.......OCT. 9 .............................NOV.
28 DAYS LATER ......................OCT. 9............................... North America Only
ROBOCOP (MGM) .....................OCT. 9 ..............................DEC.
AMITYVILLE HORROR (1979) (MGM) OCT. 9 ..........................North America Only
BATTLE OF BRITAIN (MGM) .............NOV. 6......................... Q1 08
A BRIDGE TOO FAR (MGM) ..............NOV. 6 .........................Q1 08
I, ROBOT ......................................NOV. 13....................... Q1 08
DIE HARD...................................... NOV ............................NOV.
DIE HARD 2 DIE HARDER................. NOV............................. NOV.
DIE HARD WITH A VENGEANCE..........NOV ..........................NOV.
RED DAWN (MGM) ...........................NOV ..........................Q1 08
MR. AND MRS. SMITH .......................DEC. 4 .......................DEC.
INDEPENDENCE DAY........................ DEC. 4 .......................DEC.
CAST AWAY.................................... DEC. 4 .......................North America Only
RONIN (MGM).................................. DEC. 4 .......................DEC
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Listed below are the upcoming Blu-ray Disc releases from Fox and MGM excluding new theatrical day & date BD/DVD releases. EXACT TITLE CONFIGURATIONS TO FOLLOW IN THE COMING WEEKS.
TITLE....................................N.A. RELEASE ..................INTERNATIONAL RELEASE
MASTER & COMMANDER ...........OCT. 2............................ OCT.
THE DAY AFTER TOMORROW ....OCT. 2 ............................NOV.
FROM HELL ............................OCT. 9 ............................OCT.
THE FLY (1986) ......................OCT. 9 .............................Q1 08
EDWARD SCISSORHANDS `.......OCT. 9 .............................NOV.
28 DAYS LATER ......................OCT. 9............................... North America Only
ROBOCOP (MGM) .....................OCT. 9 ..............................DEC.
AMITYVILLE HORROR (1979) (MGM) OCT. 9 ..........................North America Only
BATTLE OF BRITAIN (MGM) .............NOV. 6......................... Q1 08
A BRIDGE TOO FAR (MGM) ..............NOV. 6 .........................Q1 08
I, ROBOT ......................................NOV. 13....................... Q1 08
DIE HARD...................................... NOV ............................NOV.
DIE HARD 2 DIE HARDER................. NOV............................. NOV.
DIE HARD WITH A VENGEANCE..........NOV ..........................NOV.
RED DAWN (MGM) ...........................NOV ..........................Q1 08
MR. AND MRS. SMITH .......................DEC. 4 .......................DEC.
INDEPENDENCE DAY........................ DEC. 4 .......................DEC.
CAST AWAY.................................... DEC. 4 .......................North America Only
RONIN (MGM).................................. DEC. 4 .......................DEC
great news!! ;D
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Dec. 4 will be an expensive day!
Battlestar Galactica: Season 1 on HD DVD
For Blu-ray;
20 Million Miles to Earth (Sony)
Cast Away (Fox)
Independence Day (Fox)
Mr. & Mrs. Smith (Fox)
Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End (Buena Vista)
Ronin (MGM)
;D :o ::)
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Wow..dami great movies...I'm drooling... :)
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Listed below are the upcoming Blu-ray Disc releases from Fox and MGM excluding new theatrical day & date BD/DVD releases. EXACT TITLE CONFIGURATIONS TO FOLLOW IN THE COMING WEEKS.
TITLE....................................N.A. RELEASE ..................INTERNATIONAL RELEASE
MASTER & COMMANDER ...........OCT. 2............................ OCT.
THE DAY AFTER TOMORROW ....OCT. 2 ............................NOV.
FROM HELL ............................OCT. 9 ............................OCT.
THE FLY (1986) ......................OCT. 9 .............................Q1 08
EDWARD SCISSORHANDS `.......OCT. 9 .............................NOV.
28 DAYS LATER ......................OCT. 9............................... North America Only
ROBOCOP (MGM) .....................OCT. 9 ..............................DEC.
AMITYVILLE HORROR (1979) (MGM) OCT. 9 ..........................North America Only
BATTLE OF BRITAIN (MGM) .............NOV. 6......................... Q1 08
A BRIDGE TOO FAR (MGM) ..............NOV. 6 .........................Q1 08
I, ROBOT ......................................NOV. 13....................... Q1 08
DIE HARD...................................... NOV ............................NOV.
DIE HARD 2 DIE HARDER................. NOV............................. NOV.
DIE HARD WITH A VENGEANCE..........NOV ..........................NOV.
RED DAWN (MGM) ...........................NOV ..........................Q1 08
MR. AND MRS. SMITH .......................DEC. 4 .......................DEC.
INDEPENDENCE DAY........................ DEC. 4 .......................DEC.
CAST AWAY.................................... DEC. 4 .......................North America Only
RONIN (MGM).................................. DEC. 4 .......................DEC
from blu-ray:
(http://images2.dvdempire.com/gen/movies/1363176h.jpg)
(http://images2.dvdempire.com/gen/movies/1363174h.jpg)
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'Transformers' on HD DVD in October?
August 23, 2007
Transformers fan website TFW2005.com is reporting they've received word from multiple sources indicating October 16 is the day Michael Bay's 'Transformers' will be released simultaneously on DVD and HD DVD.
The first sign pegging this date comes in the form of a CVS Pharmacy planogram. These marketing sheets are used to aid stores in setting their shelves for new product, and apparently someone has laid eyes on one including 'Transformers' and the date.
The second sign comes in the form of an October 16 dated pre-order link at HDAddicts.com (see pre-order here). It's important to note that none of the larger online retailers have begun taking pre-orders, so HDAddicts could very well be speculating the date.
As with any pre-announcement release date information, please take it with a grain of salt until Paramount Home Video officially reveals their plans.
source: http://dvd.themanroom.com/dvd-newsview.php?id=684 (http://dvd.themanroom.com/dvd-newsview.php?id=684)
Wow! That soon? Paramount didn't waste their time!
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Full Specs in for 'Spider-Man: High-Def Trilogy' Blu-ray
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3273/original.jpeg)
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has revealed full specs for its highly-anticipated 'Spider-Man: The High-Def Trilogy,' but they may be something of a letdown for fans of the first two films in the franchise.
As announced earlier this month, Sony plans to issue all three Spider-Man movies in a special Blu-ray box set on October 30.
But while the box set will roll out the red carpet for 'Spider-Man 3,' featuring identical specs to the concurrently-released stand-alone Blu-ray edition of the movie (which includes a bonus disc filled with extras, plus PCM 5.1 surround and Dolby TrueHD audio tracks), the first two Spider-Man flicks will come significantly less feature-packed.
Neither 'Spider-Man' nor 'Spider-Man 2' will include any of the bonus features from their original DVD releases, and -- in a first for Sony -- neither will include support for PCM audio. Instead, both 'Spider-Man' and 'Spider-Man 2' will contain Dolby TrueHD 5.1 surround tracks only.
For high-def fans of 'Spider-Man 2,' however, all is not lost. The 'High-Def Trilogy' will contain both the theatrical version of the sequel and 'Spider-Man 2.1,' an extended version of the film that was subsequently released on video. Viewers will be able to choose each seamlessly via the Blu-ray format's branching technology for uninterrupted playback.
Sony has set a $99.98 list price for the box set.
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Sony/Disc_Announcements/Full_Specs_in_for_Spider-Man:_High-Def_Trilogy_Blu-ray/887 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Sony/Disc_Announcements/Full_Specs_in_for_Spider-Man:_High-Def_Trilogy_Blu-ray/887)
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'Transformers' on HD DVD in October?
Wow! That soon? Paramount didn't waste their time!
Hooyah...amen! Once I got this babe, will have to watch it again & again! :D
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Uy thats fast ha, even earlier than Spid3rman.
I hope they jampack the Transformers w/ special features just like what warner did on 300 hd dvd webisodes, blue/greenscreen PiP, web-enabled, etc.
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Do we need to read between the lines here??
Nickerson will exit Warner high-def post
Steve Nickerson, Warner Home Video's ubiquitous next-generation disc guru, is leaving the company to pursue other opportunities that will be announced shortly.
Nickerson came to Warner in 2000 after 17 years in the consumer-electronics sector. Most recently, he worked with Toshiba, helping oversee the launch of DVD as senior vp sales and marketing.
At Warner, Nickerson was hired as vp DVD marketing and then became senior vp sales for the U.S., a position he held until 2002. After three years as GM of Australia, he returned to the U.S. in 2005 as senior vp market management.
A year later, with the launch of Blu-ray Disc and HD DVD, he became Warner's point man for the new formats as senior vp high-definition media. He was a regular speaker at industry trade shows and conferences and talked up the studio's dual-format approach as giving the consumer the ultimate choice and the studio a chance to maximize high-def disc revenue.
"While it's hard to leave a company like Warner Bros., I have appreciated the opportunities that I have been given here and, especially, the chance to work with so many great people," Nickerson said.
HollywoodReporter (http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/content_display/home_entertainment/video/e3ic5e5748d210215482fe5e2abfedf8b53)
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From a beatboy 77 wannabe...
Stephen Nickerson came to Warner from a position at Toshiba. Warner is likely to announce killing of the Total HD initiative after the recent Combo disc issues and may be going Blu-ray exclusive.
Apparently Warner has been cancelling some orders for HD DVD orders this past week and pre-orders for some HD DVD titles are now unavailable or listed as delivery "unknown".
We should know by Monday.
http://digg.com/tech_news/Rumor_Warner_Brothers_Steve_Nickerson_Steps_Down
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Prepare for another wild week ;D ;D ;D
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Lets wait and see :)
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If not soon, major announcements will be done on Sept. 5 - The start of CEDIA Expo 2007.
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Many are still skeptical about this though...
Warner Denies Rumors of Shift in High-Def Strategy
Though it's not likely to quell ongoing speculation, Warner today is denying reports that the studio will follow in Paramount's footsteps drop its dual-support of both HD DVD and Blu-ray.
The rumors began earlier this week, after fellow dual-format supporter Paramount announced it would exclusively release its movies on HD DVD, but reached a fever pitch late Thursday, when Warner VP Steve Nickerson -- the studio's high-def point person, and the industry's cheerleader for dual-format support -- announced he would leave Warner.
Now, in a new article posted by Video Business, Warner Home Video spokesman Jim Noonan says that Nickerson's departure should not be taken to suggest an upcoming shift in the studio’s high-def operations.
"This is not about a change in strategy," Noonan said. "This is completely [Nickerson's] call, and he will be missed. He is smart and a workhorse."
Meanwhile, Warner has announced that Dorinda Marticorena will take on Nickerson's previous role as senior VP of high-def. Currently VP of kids and sports marketing at Warner Home Video, the studio says Marticorena will contine Nickerson's efforts to promote the mainstream adoption of both high-def formats.
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Industry_Trends/Warner/Warner_Denies_Rumors_of_Shift_in_High-Def_Strategy/896
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A good read I saw at the AVSforum
Ending the HDTV DVD War
-- By Joseph Whip
It has been an amazing week in the world of High Definition media (HDM) on the Internet forums starting with the Paramount/Dreamworks HD-DVD exclusivity announcement. Fanboys or both red and blu persuasions have been working overdrive spinning the announcement this way and that, proclaiming that their side would be victorious. While some of the postings on sites have been amusing, some have been downright deceitful or libelous, uncalled for and beneath us as HT enthusiasts. To calls of payoffs, the Microsoft behind it all and wanting to rule the world, to Michael Bay being a savior to then being a villain to Steven Spielberg releasing only on BD and not HD, not ever and Sony being the root of all evil. People posting claiming big news which will end the war, only to disappear when nothing happens as they said it would. Ok, nevermind! All very sad really.
An example of how things can get out of hand is the announcement that Steve Nickerson a SVP at Warner Brothers was resigning. Given claims that WB was about to make some big announcement, the fanboys were all a twitter, claiming that this meant that WB was going BD exclusive as Mr. Nickerson was pro HD to no he was pro BD and this meant HD exclusivity. In reality, no one posting had a clue who Mr. Nickerson is and whether it meant anything. Maybe he just wanted to spend more time with his family? Guys, get a life! We will find out soon enough whether it means anything at all. Most likely, it does not.
The other main issue posted on the boards is how to end the war. Swanni has even chimed in on three ways that BD can win the war. Maybe so, but at this point, it seems to me that there is only one side that can end the war quickly, and that is HD not BD. The best that BD can hope is to win a war of attrition that will last a couple more years and hope to gain such an edge on software sales to force the hands of the HD exclusive or neutral studios to give up the ghost. On the other hand, HD has the combo and dual disc hand to play, one which BD has not. The combo disc is a flipper, having HD on one side and SD on the other. The dual disc does the same but does not require flipping the disc over. Some HD owners hate the idea of combos, mostly due to the added cost, making, in the case of WB, the BD discs being $5 cheaper than the combo, which in and of itself may explain some of the sales figures of 300 in favor of BD. I like them.
However, with Paramount now HD exclusive, it is possible that Universal, Paramount and Warners can get together and abandon DVD only releases for their films and release HD/DVD combos only. They would, of course, have to price them more like DVDs and give up their
insane HDM price points. I would suggest a $19.99 msrp. The almost immediate result will be sales of millions upon millions of HD DVD discs almost overnight. What will the Nielsen rankings look like then?
Consumers could buy the discs in confidence knowing that they will always have the DVD side. With numerous discs in the house, they would be more inclined to buy an HD player to take advantage of the much better picture and sound on the other side of the disc. With HD player approaching $199 and lower soon, HD players will reach the point of impulse buys, further fueling sales of the HD discs. The combos would also be travel friendly, as they will play on portable DVD player, laptops and car players as well. Combos are impossible for BD as the DVD Forum will not permit them. I just can't imagine families buying a BD for the house and a separate DVD of the same film for travel purposes. All of this, of course, hinges on the price of the discs. It would be impossible for Fox and Disney to resist entering such a market were it to come to pass. With Fox and Disney becoming neutral, the war would be as good as over.
I acknowledge that what I am proposing would be a bold move by the studios. However, if they want to end the war and do so quickly, it is the most logical alternative.
A very bold move indeed if it happens. Abandoning DVD-only releases and releasing only HD/DVD combos?? I have though about that too. If these studios would really want mass adoption of their preferred format, then this strategy would be it.
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I never liked "flippers" dvd. It's prone to scratches.
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A good read I saw at the AVSforum
A very bold move indeed if it happens. Abandoning DVD-only releases and releasing only HD/DVD combos?? I have though about that too. If these studios would really want mass adoption of their preferred format, then this strategy would be it.
I think thats a very good idea, cos if they can lower down prices of combos to dvd price point then it wud mean chain of reaction that will encourage average consumers to adopt HD. they wud think:
first, 'why buy s-dvd when i can hav combo w/ HD included at same price?'
second, 'why wudn't i buy hd-dvd player since i already have the media on my combo?'
and third, 'now that i already have an HD DVD player, there's no reason for me to use the other side of the disc' good reason to cut down price even more.
DVD Forum must take this seriously, there are lots of people out there even hardcore videophiles who has full HD equipments but find prices of HDM still expensive and that sets them back fr. adopting it.
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first, 'why buy s-dvd when i can hav combo w/ HD included at same price?'
actually if those studios abandon the DVD-only releases, the consumers would have no option but to get the combo of a particular movie title. Unfortunately, that looks force-feeding to me. But if you can market them as DVDs with the bonus HD version, and price them within the vicinity of DVD pricing levels, then acceptance would be no problem. If these studios really would want to accelerate the adoption process while taking a initial hit in earnings, then they should consider this strategy heavily.
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actually if those studios abandon the DVD-only releases, the consumers would have no option but to get the combo of a particular movie title. Unfortunately, that looks force-feeding to me.
or make that ' . . . w/ HD included at almost the same price?' since HD is more expensive to produce there's no way, at this point, combos can directly match the price of dvds. but maybe anything affordable for the mainstream crowd's pocket is enough . . . additional 3-5 dollars if thats possible.
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I also hate flippers. If they do this hopefully price is below 20 dollars (adoption will be faster)..But thats a long shot I think.
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yeah, admittedly, a lot of people hate flippers. They are prone to scratches, and many times, you make mistakes on what side to play. But if the HD DVD studios go "combos only" day and date release, that 2-1 Blu-ray media software advantage would be wiped out faster than you think.
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Don't know where to put this but anyway, thought it is an interesting read.
http://www.firingsquad.com/hardware/...ay_hd-dvd_war/
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Don't know where to put this but anyway, thought it is an interesting read.
http://www.firingsquad.com/hardware/...ay_hd-dvd_war/
Sorry cant get the link to work..
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The End of the Blu-ray/HD-DVD War
Introduction
For the last year, the HD-DVD Promotional Group and Blu-ray Disc Alliance have been fighting a fierce war. At stake is control of the next-generation home video format and billions of dollars.
A week ago, it looked as if Blu-ray was going to be the winner of the HD battle. The momentum of Blu-ray was increasing with Blu-ray movies such as 300 outselling the HD-DVD counterpart by almost 2:1. In fact, one week ago, Universal remained the only HD-DVD exclusive studio. If you were interested in movies from every other major studio, Blu-ray was the smart choice. It would only be a matter of time before Universal caved in and went dual-format and Blu-ray’s victory was imminent.
On August 20, 2007, Paramount and Dreamworks Pictures changed the course of the war. After being a format neutral studio in the last year, Paramount elected to switch to HD-DVD exclusively for an 18 month period. Those looking to get Transformers in high-definition or any movie from Paramount Pictures, DreamWorks Pictures, Paramount Vantage, Nickelodeon Movies, and MTV Films, and Dreamworks Animation would now need to go to the HD DVD camp; Steven Spielberg’s movies being the sole exception. The New York Times has since reported that Paramount’s and DreamWorks Animation’s decision was driven by $150 million of financial incentives.
While most of the commentary has focused on the possibility of a prolonged battle between the HD DVD and Blu-ray camps, Paramount’s decision to go HD DVD exclusive has the best chance of ending this battle once-and-for-all.
Think I’m crazy? I am crazy… crazy like a fox.
But it’s complicated…
read the full article (http://www.firingsquad.com/hardware/end_of_the_blu-ray_hd-dvd_war/)
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Sorry cant get the link to work..
Oops sorry, naputol pag-copy ng URL. Thanks Aeris30 for posting.
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Dami na Hd DVD and Blu-ray sa Top 25 ng Amazon as of this posting....
7. Heroes- Season 1 (HD DVD)
8. 300 (HD DVD)
11. 300 (Blu-ray)
14. Casino Royale (Blu-ray)
16. POTC-CotBP (Blu-ray)
24. Shaun of the Dead (HD DVD)
25. Boune Supremacy (HD DVD)
and there are 19 other HD titles combined (7 BD, 12 HD DVD) which are in the Top 100 rankings. I have never seen so much HD titles in the top 100 before.....a total of 26 titles!!! Hmmmm...I think the Paramount shift did the format more good. It created publicity.....awareness and more adopters???
PS....pwede rin ito...marami sa mga early adopters ang nag eexpire na ang kanilang 10 percent off sa HD promo ng Amazon...
Heto pala ang culprit, me promo rin pala....buy 2 get a 3rd for free.... ;D ;D
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Universal Launches New HD DVD Website
Further pushing the boundaries of HD DVD interactivity, Universal has launched a new consumer high-def promotional and support web site promising exclusive web-enabled content.
The studio-created site, dubbed Universal Studios Home Entertainment Hi Def, is designed to be an extensive consumer portal for all things Universal HD DVD. Among the site's offerings are a FAQ covering the format's current interactive features, extensive technical support (including connection issues and a breakdown of common software and hardware error codes) and previews of upcoming releases.
But most exciting are a number of site sections still under construction, which seem to suggest that the studio is planning to use the site as a launching pad for future web-enabled content. Labeled "Coming Soon" are several features, including something called "U-Shop," which apparently will allow consumers to buy exclusive products while they watch the movie; "Best Buddies," where fans will be able to send friends pointers to favorite clips on a given an HD DVD title via the studio's "MyScenes" feature; and a dedicated Download Center.
Universal is also promising that additional content will be made available only to registered users of the site, including trailers and other exclusive material.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/)
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from blu-ray:
(http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/2760/3680op2.jpg)
October 23rd
(http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/3753/51d633rri1lss5001uw7.jpg)
(http://images2.dvdempire.com/gen/movies/1284685h.jpg)
October 9th
(http://images2.dvdempire.com/gen/movies/1360482h.jpg)
October 16th
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from blu-ray:
Fox Specs Die Hard and Fantastic Four
Posted August 30, 2007 by Josh
Fox Home Entertainment has released the official specs for 'Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer', 'Live Free or Die Hard' (Unrated), and 'Diehard Trilogy' Blu-ray releases. 'Fantastic Four' will get AVC 1080p video and DTS-HD MA audio on a BD-50, and is set to be released on October 2nd in North America and October 9th internationally. All four 'Die Hard' movies will see similar treatment, and are scheduled for a November 20th release in North America and October 28th internationally.
Extras for 'Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer' will include deleted scenes, a full length making-of documentary, multiple behind-the-scenes featurettes, and commentaries. Exclusive to the Blu-ray will be the BD-J multiplayer strategy game "Who Dares Defy Galactus?" and the trivia game "Saving The World One Question At A Time".
Extras for 'Live Free or Die Hard' will include a music video, a making-of documentary, commentaries, and the Blu-ray exclusive multi-level strategy game "Black Hat Intercept!" (with an appearance by Kevin Smith).
Extras for the 'Die Hard Trilogy' will include deleted scenes, featurettes, commentaries, visual effects breakdowns, alternate endings, side-by-side comparisons and much more.
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Holy Frak! ;D :o ;D :o
Coming soon in Dec. 4!
(http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y26/Bat_Zignal/bsggc7.jpg)
The 6-discs are all dual-layer, HD30 with episodes presented in 1080P 1.78:1 Widescreen with English 5.1 (Dolby True HD and Dolby Digital Plus) and optional English SDH and French subtitles.
Extras are broken down below…
Disc 1 - Judging by the extras and the disc running time (95mins) we believe this disc features the first half of the mini-series…
Encyclopedia Galactica - An interactive guide including ships, characters, colonies and flight training manual
Picture in Picture - Behind the Scenes of the Mini Series
Deleted Scenes - Mini Series
Sketches and Art
From Miniseries to Series
Change Is Good, Now They're Babes
The Cylon Centurion
Future/Past Technology
The Doctor Is Out (Of His Mind)
Production
Visual Effects
Epilogue
Feature Commentary with Director Michael Rymer and Executive Producers David Eick and Ronald D. Moore
Disc 2 - Judging by the extras and the disc running time (134mins) we believe this disc features the remainder of the mini-series and the pilot episode of Season 1…
Encyclopedia Galactica - An interactive guide including ships, characters, colonies and flight training manual
Picture in Picture - Behind the Scenes of the Mini Series
Deleted Scenes
Feature Commentary with Director Michael Rymer and Executive Producers David Eick and Ronald D. Moore
Pilot Commentary with Director Michael Rymer and Executive Producers David Eick and Ronald D. Moore
Disc 3 - The remaining discs all feature 3 episodes from Season 1…
Deleted Scenes
Episode 103 "Bastille Day" Commentary with Ronald D. Moore and David Eick
Episode 104 "Act of Contrition" Commentary with Ronald D. Moore and David Eick
Disc 4
Deleted Scenes
Episode 105 "You Can't Go Home Again" Commentary with Ronald D. Moore and David Eick
Disc 5
Deleted Scenes
Episode 109 "Tigh Me Up, Tigh Me Down" Commentary with Executive Producer Ronald D. Moore
Episode 110 "The Hand of God" Commentary with Executive Producer Ronald D. Moore
Disc 6
Deleted Scenes
Episode 111 "Colonial Day" Commentary with Executive Producer Ronald D. Moore
Episode 112 "Kobol's Last Gleaming" Pt 1 Commentary with Executive Producer Ronald D. Moore
Episode 113 "Kobol's Last Gleaming" Pt. 2 Commentary with Executive Producer Ronald D. Moore
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And this one for 200 bucks on Nov. 20! :o :o :o
(http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y26/Bat_Zignal/STrekS1_HDDVD_FinalAngle.jpg)
I guess Nov. will be another very expensive day for format neutrals with the Die Hard set on Nov. 10
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And this one for 200 bucks on Nov. 20! :o :o :o
The suggested retail price will be $217.99 but Amazon's list price is only $138.95. ;)
Star Trek "REMASTER" HD DVD
http://pinoydvd.com/board/index.php?topic=70401.0
Yes, year end will be very expensive months for all of us... ;D
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Ya it will be expensive. Must haves for me are
Star trek
Die hard series
Jack Ryan collection
Blade runner
Spiderman series
Sana the prices will be lower..
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Ya it will be expensive. Must haves for me are
Star trek
Die hard series
Jack Ryan collection
Blade runner
Spiderman series
Sana the prices will be lower..
siyet..........suicide suicide na nito....
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Ray, guess you can sense my thinking cos we both have the same Wish List provided I also turn neutral! :P
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hehe..ya these are my top few favorites of all time. Must have talaga..Except maybe for spiderman 3, I thought it was getting a little old. Ya this is bloody, Im gonna split it to one boxset a month so wont be heavy to my pocket hehe..Good thing blade runner is just 27 plus for 5 disc right?
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Blu-ray partners confirm no sweetner from Sony
Warner Bros, 20th Century Fox, MGM and Sony Pictures have all confirmed on the record to Pocket-lint that they have not accepted sweeteners from the Blu-ray association.
The response follows a direct question from Pocket-lint following rumours that the HD DVD forum paid Paramount and Dreamworks to sign exclusively with the format.
Although all the studio's present confirmed that they hadn't accepted sweeteners from the Blu-ray disc association, Stephen Foulser, Marketing VP Europe for Disney opted for a "No comment" statement, raising questions amongst industry commentators.
Studio execs visibly wriggled on stage as they were put the Yes/No only question in front of a packed audience of journalists at IFA 2007 in Berlin, Germany.
http://www.pocket-lint.co.uk/news/news.phtml/9805/10829/blu-ray-partners-confirm-no-sweetner.phtml
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from blu-ray:
Blu-ray Dominates HD Sales
Posted August 31, 2007 by Josh
New data from Home Media Research shows that Blu-ray is continuing to lead in high definition media sales. As of August 5th, the top 10 best selling high definition movies are all available on Blu-ray, and half of those exclusive to the format. Warner Brother's '300' leads the pack, followed by 'The Departed', 'Casino Royale', 'Planet Earth', and 'Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest'.
Noticeably absent from the list is Universal who didn't have a title which sold enough copies break into the top 20. Paramount made it to 17th with their release of 'Babel', but if there wasn't a Blu-ray version of the title, it would have fall well short making the list. All Blu-ray studios were represented in the Top 20 (including Lionsgate with their release of 'Crank').
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(http://images2.dvdempire.com/gen/movies/1365013h.jpg)
October 2nd
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November 20th
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Universal Says "I Do" to 'I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry' on HD DVD
In an early announcement, Universal Studios Home Entertainment says it is planning a November HD DVD wedding reception for the Adam Sandler summer blockbuster, 'I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry.
Although the studio stopped short of issuing an exact street date for film (which is still in theaters), it is promising an HD DVD edition sometime in the month of November, day-and-date with a standard-def DVD.
Tech specs are set to include a 1080p/VC-1 transfer, along with Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround and Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 Surround tracks.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Disc_Announcements/Universal_Says_I_Do_to_I_Now_Pronounce_You_Chuck_&_Larry_on_HD_DVD/918)
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HD DVD player price to drop further in Q4
The high-definition format war will hit a new low in the fourth quarter—price, that is.
Canada’s Venturer Electronics is set to release Chinese-manufactured HD DVD players priced below $200.
Venturer's SHD7000 will be priced at $199, according to a company representative, which would make it the cheapest stand-alone HD DVD player available today.
To date, Toshiba has the lowest priced stand-alone player, its entry level HD-A2 $299 model.
Hitting a new HD DVD hardware pricing low could be what tips on-the-fence consumers to embrace the high-def format. But many retailers, including Wal-Mart, Ultimate Electronics and Bjorn’s, say they are not committed to carrying the Venturer player, preferring instead to underscore products from bigger brand companies.
“We have no plans to have Venturer in our stores this holiday,” Wal-Mart merchandise spokeswoman Melissa O’Brien said. “We will continue to offer the best values on popular HD DVD and Blu-ray products from leading consumer brands like Sony, Samsung, Philips, Toshiba and RCA.”
Wal-Mart does sell some Venturer portable DVD players on its Web site.
Ultimate Electronics’ director of merchandising for video Matt Duda is considering stocking the Venturer HD DVD player, but he doesn’t expect a major swing in the format war until a better-known company, such as Toshiba or Sony, rolls out a sub-$200 player.
“I have never heard of Venturer,” admits Duda. “If the price [similarly drops] for a tier-one brand, that will be more compelling.”
Research firm Understanding & Solutions believes the Venturer player could push the established companies to compete with their own price cuts.
“At this early stage in the market development, consumers generally want branded product,” said Jim Bottoms, U&S director. “But low-priced non-branded players force the branded suppliers to review their pricing.”
Sales of DVD players began skyrocketing when prices fell nearer to $100, acknowledge retailers. But unlike the earlier stages of DVD, the high-def format split could stop many consumers from investing.
“The only time a price can really stimulate demand is if that demand is already there,” said David Workman, director of the Progressive Retailers Organization. “But I’m not sure demand is there. I think the recent Paramount news [about releasing titles in HD DVD exclusively] has polarized software companies even more, so there is further format stalemate. And consumers are still comparing high-def players against the price of [standard-def] players. A $199 player is still an expensive DVD player for people.”
Bjorn Dybdahl, owner of San Antonio store Bjorn’s, added, “Because of the confusion over formats, some people wouldn’t spend $50 on a product that they perceive might not be around for very long.”
Some retailers, such as Value Electronics, are already rallying around the Venturer player. Value president Robert Zohn said he is ordering 1,000 to 1,200 units, and he expects he could start selling them as early as October.
Zohn believes that $199 will be the right carrot to dangle in front of hesitant customers. When Value slashed Toshiba’s entry-level model to $199 in a promotion, the chain sold 400 units within 30 hours and had to prematurely shut the sale down.
“When it gets to a certain price point, the thing takes off like a rocket,” said Zohn, who prefers the HD DVD format over Blu-ray. “That price point moves an enormous amount of HD players.”
Venturer’s SHD7000 features 1080i video output, Ethernet connectivity and advanced audio technology Dolby TrueHD. In addition to HD DVD and CD playback, the model also upconverts standard-def DVDs to near high-def quality through an HDMI connection. The player will be distributed nationally to retailers.
For months, HD DVD backers have said Chinese manufacturers would soon start producing ultra-low-price players, likely impacting the format war. Venturer represents the first such company to potentially get the ball rolling.
A statement from Venturer, whose North American headquarters is in Markham, Ontario, touts the player “to be one of the lowest among entry-level HD DVD players.”
http://www.videobusiness.com/article/CA6473655.html?nid=2705
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HD DVD Day at IFA 2007
It was the HD DVD camp's turn in the spotlight today at IFA (the European consumer electronics trade fair), with several HD DVD supporting companies speaking out at a well-attended press conference.
While yesterday's BDA press conference was heavy on new hardware announcements for the European market, the HD DVD camp took a decidely different approach, focusing less on new products and more on what its backers see as the format's advantages over Blu-ray.
The centerpiece of the presentation was a brief appearance by Chris Saito of Paramount, the company that famously shook up the high-def format war earlier this month when it announced it would drop support of Blu-ray, and would instead exclusively back HD DVD.
Saito said that his company's decision came after a year's worth of evaluation, and was based on the format being the best value not only to consumers, but to Paramount as well, in terms of cost of replication.
Other speakers at the comference emphasized the format's "ever growing list of worldwide supporters," its affordability, its lead in stand-alone player sales, and its higher attach rates, (4 discs per player, 7 times that of BD).
"The HD format is about stand-alone players, not game systems. We don’t think gamers will buy movies," said HD DVD Promo Group co-chairman Ken Graffeo.
In a direct dig at the BDA, Graffeo pointed to the HD DVD group's mandatory interactive specs, stating that all HD DVD players are required to support the format's advanced interactive features. "Sadly, that's not the case with Blu-ray," said Graffeo. "Many Blu-ray owners will only get advanced features if they buy the next-generation players".
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/IFA/HD_DVD_Day_at_IFA_2007/920)
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HD DVD PRESS CONFERENCE, IN FAST FORWARD
After yesterday's Blu-ray press conference, Toshiba fired back...over the course of two very, very long hours. And by "fired back," we really mean gave a bunch of presentations that were too long. So we're giving you a fast forward version of the conference...that still feels a bit like slow-mo, but here is the meat of it: Running through Toshiba's game plan, Fujii went through the 3-pronged strategy of HDD, HD DVD and SD in Toshiba's multimedia approach. He also mentioned, "I'm sure withing three years the price of 32GB of flash memory will be the range of $100 dollars," and that optical discs would be around in, "30, 40, even 100 years."
The show opens with Yoshihide Fujii introducing a video. It's a CGI wonderfest, best transcribed from my notes:
"A rotating metal globe shoots a laser. Stuff lights up. It's a submarine! It's a, wait, pirate ship! WITH JETS ON THE BACK. Now it's flying. Best video ever. Weird galaxy thingies now. Lots of floating metal balls. Pink elephants fly past the screen. Pigs. The word you were looking for was "pigs."
Ironically, they showed off the same Harry Potter and Oceans 11-13 packs that would be coming to HD DVD that we just saw mentioned in the Blu-ray conference. They will also get an exclusive with Battlestar Galactica and the original Star Trek. And of course, there's The Matrix. As said best in a second video, "Go ahead, take the red pill!"
I expected a smattering of stats to clash in direct opposition with Blu-ray claiming a substantial lead. But the HD DVD conference sidestepped overall sales numbers. They preferred points like:
- "The hi def format is about stand alone consoles, not game machines"
- "For every 2 ps3's, one movie is sold. While 4 movies are bought for every [HD DVD] player"
- "Many Blu-ray owners will only get advanced features if they buy new players with BD Java..."
and my personal favorite:
- "The consumer is pretty happy with the experience they get with DVD."
Instead, they focused on their success with the PC market, claiming a 70% share of European IT market.
And that's the show. Pretty long for fast forward? Let's just say that before I went in, I never had to dye my pubes.
SOURCE (http://gizmodo.com/gadgets/ifa2007/hd-dvd-press-conference-in-fast-forward-295636.php)
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'Ocean's Thirteen' Headed to Blu-ray, HD DVD
The con is on: Warner Home Video has announced it will bring the blockbuster 'Ocean's Thirteen' to Blu-ray and HD DVD this Thanksgiving.
The third (and reportedly final) entry in the star-studded caper franchise from director Steven Soderbergh, 'Ocean's Thirteen' will hit both next-gen formats day-and-date with the standard-def DVD version November 13.
Tech specs are not yet available, but supplements are set to include the newly-produced 44-minute making-of documentary "Masters of the Heist," plus two featurettes "Vegas: An Opulent Illusion" and "Jerry Weintraub Walk and Talk."
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Disc_Announcements/Oceans_Thirteen_Headed_to_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD/922)
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Wow so many titles in November, Star trek, Die hard trilogy, Oceans..I might budget to Die hard trilogy first for that month hehe..
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Blades of Glory Blu-ray being auctioned at eBay Canada (http://cgi.ebay.ca/Blades-of-Glory-2007-Blu-ray-Disc-Authentic-HTF_W0QQitemZ120157148522QQihZ002QQcategoryZ617QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem). Current bid is now at US$197.50 PARC has it on his latest mailing list. A few copies might have also found their way to other local sources.
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Apparently, the bidders on that item don't believe in the saying "patience is virtue" :o . Or they could've just buy/rent it on dvd if they were that desperate to watch it.
These types of people deserve to be exploited. ::)
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Apparently, the bidders on that item don't believe in the saying "patience is virtue" :o . Or they could've just buy/rent it on dvd if they were that desperate to watch it.
These types of people deserve to be exploited. ::)
What makes this blu-ray title collectible is because of Paramount going HD DVD exclusive starting with the release of the Blaze of Glory hd dvd. All previous pre-orders for it's blu-ray version were cancelled. But it seems early pressed blu-ray copies still reached North American stores.
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Ridley Scott Feeling Blu :D :D
Medusa Distribution, an Italian film distributor and exclusive HD DVD supporter, will release 'Kingdom of Heaven' as their first Blu-ray title. The move comes after the film's director, Ridley Scott, insisted that they release the title on Blu-ray. The acclaimed director joins the ranks of Steven Spielberg and Francis Ford Coppola as filmmakers who insist their films get distributed on Blu-ray.
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=467
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Ridley Scott's feeling blu eh... Gladiator is a Dreamwork release, will there be a chance it'll be in Blu?
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What makes this blu-ray title collectible is because of Paramount going HD DVD exclusive starting with the release of the Blaze of Glory hd dvd. All previous pre-orders for it's blu-ray version were cancelled. But it seems early pressed blu-ray copies still reached North American stores.
I see where you are coming from, but I personally think it's going be a collectible in the short term aspect of it atleast. Hypothetically, there are 2 scenarios I see here. Either:
1) HD-DVD will win out in the end and most won't even really care if you have a blu ray Blades of Glory. Even if it is a collectible, it still is on the losing format so the average joe will just disregard it and say "wow that's cool, not really ::)"
or
2) Blu-Ray will win in the end and Paramount will re-release BoG on Blu Ray anyways. Just my opinion, but by that time, who's going to be proud of saying, "I paid $200 for my copy of Blades of Glory" when everybody else can have it for $20 and possibly with even more added features to it. Regardless, someone is going to seem foolish and it's not going to be the consumer who waited.
Finally, Blades of Glory was a good movie(bought it on DVD), but paying $200 for it is overkill. But then again, it's there money so as long as they're sure of their decision, more power to them :D
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Ridley Scott Feeling Blu :D :D
Medusa Distribution, an Italian film distributor and exclusive HD DVD supporter, will release 'Kingdom of Heaven' as their first Blu-ray title. The move comes after the film's director, Ridley Scott, insisted that they release the title on Blu-ray. The acclaimed director joins the ranks of Steven Spielberg and Francis Ford Coppola as filmmakers who insist their films get distributed on Blu-ray.
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=467
Good news for the blu ray camp :)
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Die Hard Box set and Live Free details (Blu-Ray)
Fox Home Entertainment has released full specs for its highly-anticipated Blu-ray releases of the 'Die Hard' franchise, but fans looking forward to an unrated high-def version of 'Live Free or Die Hard' are in for a disappointment.
As we first reported last week, Fox plans to bring 'Live Free or Die Hard' to Blu-ray on November 20, day-and-date with three standard-def DVD editions.
On that same day, the studio will also release a first-ever Blu-ray box set version of 'The Die Hard Trilogy,' containing the first three films in the series, 'Die Hard,' 'Die Hard 2: Die Harder' and 'Die Hard with a Vengeance'.
As if that wasn't exciting enough, the original announcement for 'Live Free or Die Hard' last week stated that the film would hit Blu-ray in an unrated cut of the movie, featuring additional footage not seen in the PG-13 theatrical cut. In fact, the announcement was posted on Fox's promotional web site (www.foxbd.com) alongside box art that also indicated an unrated Blu-ray edition of the film.
Alas, we've now received the full press release for 'Live Free or Die Hard' from Fox, and despite earlier indications, it seems that although two (of the three) DVD editions will include the unrated edition, the Blu-ray will contain the PG-13 version of the film only. When asked about the discrepancy with the box art displayed on their own web site, the studio told us that the "unrated" box art is inaccurate, and that revised artwork will be revealed in the coming days.
A screenshot of the 'Live Free or Die Hard' box art from the www.foxbd.com website. Fox says revised artwork will be unveiled shortly.
On the bright side, the just-released specs promise an otherwise full-featured Blu-ray release for the fourth film in the franchise, boasting each of the two-disc standard-def DVD's supplements, plus at least one Blu-ray exclusive. Among the bonus features are an audio commentary with Bruce Willis, director Len Wiseman and editor Nicolas De Toth, the ten-part documentary " Analog Hero in a Digital World: Making of Live Free or Die Hard," a 25-minute conversation with Willis and filmmaker Kevin Smith, an additional featurette, a music video (with its own making-of) and the theatrical trailer.
The Blu-ray will also include the BD-Java interactive game "Black Hat Intercept," exclusive to the high-def release.
Tech specs include a BD-50 dual-layer disc featuring 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video, a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track, and D-Box enhancement.
Similarly, each of the film's in 'The Die Hard Trilogy,' will receive the BD-50 treatment with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio.
Supplements will mirror those found on the previous standard-def versions, including multiple audio commentaries, featurettes, storyboard comparisons and multiple trailers and TV spots.
As previously reported, the list price for 'Live Free or Die Hard' is $39.98, while 'The Die Hard Trilogy' will retail for $99.98.
Fox currently has no plans to release the first three 'Die Hard' films separately, nor will there be a four-pack continuing both 'Live Free or Die Hard' and 'The Die Hard Trilogy.'
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Transformers Movie (2007) on Oct. 16!!
$650+ Million Smash Hit from DreamWorks Pictures and Paramount Pictures Rolls out on DVD and HD DVD October 16 in Two-Disc Sets Bursting with a Universe of Bonus Features to Immerse Fans of All Ages in the World of the Legendary ROBOTS IN DISGUISE
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HOLLYWOOD, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The armies of CYBERTRON invaded theaters with a juggernaut fury that shook the summer of 2007, but on October 16, 2007 fans of all ages will discover that there is far “More Than Meets The Eye” to the massive mechanical behemoths when TRANSFORMERS arrives on Earth in spectacular DVD and HD DVD two-disc Special Edition sets as well as on a single disc from DreamWorks Pictures and Paramount Pictures; distributed by Paramount Home Entertainment.
Earning over $650 million at the global box office to date, the massive production exploded onto screens from the creative minds of director Michael Bay and executive producer Steven Spielberg, in association with Hasbro, taking audiences by storm and becoming the biggest original film of the year. The first live-action film based on the enduringly popular “robots in disguise”, TRANSFORMERS features the ultimate battle between good and evil, as the peace-loving AUTOBOTS seek to protect humanity from the evil forces of the DECEPTICONS. The action-packed film stars a hot young cast of up-and-coming actors including Shia LaBeouf (Disturbia), Josh Duhamel (“Las Vegas”), Tyrese Gibson (Four Brothers) and Megan Fox (“Hope & Faith”), as well as seasoned performers such as Jon Voight (National Treasure) and John Turturro (The Good Shepherd). But the biggest stars are the TRANSFORMERS robots themselves – including fan favorites OPTIMUS PRIME, MEGATRON, BUMBLEBEE, RATCHET, JAZZ and more – brought to life by revolutionary new VFX techniques developed by the innovative digital wizards at Industrial Light & Magic (ILM).
The TRANSFORMERS Special Edition two-disc sets provide an incredible experience with an arsenal of bonus material that delivers excitement and fun for long-time fans, as well as for viewers who are new to the TRANSFORMERS universe. The extensive special features include commentary by Michael Bay and two multi-part in-depth documentaries exploring the human elements of the film as well as the phenomenal robot stars. Presented in multiple parts, “Our World” and “Their War” include segments with Steven Spielberg discussing his love for the franchise and the early concept for the movie, the extensive casting process, the training, consultants and real-world weapons provided by the military to lend authenticity to the film, the evolution of the robots from Hasbro’s iconic toy line to big-screen stars, the unique vehicles created for the movie, a discussion with ILM’s legendary digital artists and much more.
The discs go even further behind-the-scenes with early sketch concepts of the robots and an in-depth look at the making of the SKORPONOK attack from writing and conceptualization through the creation of the stunning visual effects.
Out-Of-This World High-Def Content:
In addition to superior picture and sound and all of the above bonus material presented in high definition, the HD DVD presentation provides consumers with a host of web-enabled features, which are accessible through all connected HD DVD players. The web-enabled features take advantage of technology that allows the studio to present the content in a new way. These cutting-edge, online features can be updated, providing consumers with an evolving entertainment experience months, or even years, after the disc is physically produced. Initial features include a TRANSFORMERS Intelligence Mode in which an on-screen dashboard over the film provides information about the robots and weapons, their strength levels, character updates and more. Plus, a GPS Locator that can access a map and GPS coordinates. Paramount’s TRANSFORMERS HD DVD connectivity capabilities will reveal additional HD DVD exclusive features at street date and at various time periods in the future.
The HD DVD also includes a TRANSFORMERS H.U.D. (Heads Up Display) that lets viewers access running text commentary while watching the film and even view relevant behind-the-scenes footage in a picture-in-picture window. Additionally, viewers can explore the main robots’ individual details in high definition with the TRANSFORMERS Tech Inspector.
DVD:
The TRANSFORMERS DVD is presented in widescreen enhanced for 16:9 televisions with Dolby Digital English 5.1 Surround, French 5.1 Surround and Spanish 5.1 Surround with English, French and Spanish subtitles. Total runtime is 143 minutes.
TRANSFORMERS Special Edition DVD bonus features include:
Disc 1:
-- Feature film
-- Commentary by Michael Bay
Disc 2:
-- Our World
-- The Story Sparks - Steven Spielberg discusses his love for the
franchise and early concept art for the film. Explores how the
writers adapted the cartoon into a live-action movie and why
Michael Bay is the perfect director for the film.
-- Human Allies - A look at how the actors were selected and their
experiences on the set.
-- I Fight Giant Robots - An exploration of the military training
that Josh Duhamel and Tyrese Gibson underwent for their roles
and the various stunts that the actors were asked to perform.
-- Battleground - A piece on the senior officials from the
Department of Defense and Air Force who consulted on the film
to give it authenticity and the key locations that the U.S.
government provided access to.
-- Their War
-- Rise of the Robots - Explores the interaction between Hasbro
designers and Michael Bay to bring the toy line roaring to life.
-- AUTOBOTS Roll Out - Michael Bay discusses working with Chevy and
its designers and the modifications that were made to the cars
seen in the film.
-- DECEPTICONS Strike - The film's military advisors discuss the
"toys" they allowed the production to borrow: F-22 Raptors,
Ospreys and A-10 Warthogs.
-- Inside the AllSpark - ILM's digital artists discuss the
challenges of bringing the TRANSFORMERS to life.
-- More Than Meets The Eye
-- From Script to Sand: The SKORPONOK Desert Attack - An in-depth
look at the making of this particularly epic and challenging
scene from initial storyboarding through production and visual
effects.
-- Concepts - Early sketch concepts of the robots.
-- Trailers
TRANSFORMERS HD DVD
The HD DVD is presented in 1080p High Definition with English, French and Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital Plus and English, English SDH+, French, Spanish and Brazilian Portuguese subtitles. In addition to the above features that will be presented in high definition, the TRANSFORMERS HD DVD will also offer the following exclusive content:
Disc 1:
-- TRANSFORMERS H.U.D. (Heads Up Display)--In this mode, viewers can
access running text-based behind-the-scenes background information
on the production during the feature. Users can also watch relevant
picture-in-picture b-roll and video with Bay, Spielberg and other
filmmakers during select sequences.
-- Transformers Intelligence Mode web-enabled features consist of:
-- Transformation Mode
-- Health Meter
-- Weapon Mode
-- Robot Bio
-- In Scene Indicator
-- Text Ticker
-- GPS
Disc 2:
-- TRANSFORMERS Tech Inspector - Gives viewers an unprecedented look
at the TRANSFORMERS robots through the exquisitely detailed models
created by ILM artists. Users can zoom in on each detail for a
closer examination and pause and change the rotation of the models.
Marketing Support:
Paramount Home Entertainment will support the home video debut of TRANSFORMERS with one of the biggest media campaigns in the division’s history. The multi-million dollar blitz will include television, print, radio and online advertising reaching a four quadrant audience. The expansive campaign also will include a viral marketing program in which fans can go online to customize a message for their friends from OPTIMUS PRIME and send it via telephone or email. In addition, an array of high-impact displays will be deployed to retail locations across the country. Promotional partners including Chevrolet and Hostess will also extend the TRANSFORMERS message to millions of people.
Each TRANSFORMERS DVD will include an insert alerting consumers to Chevrolet's "The Bumblebee Camaro Sweepstakes". Beginning October 17, 2007, fans can enter to win one of three customized Chevy Camaro cars styled after the TRANSFORMERS AUTOBOT BUMBLEBEE at chevy.com/camaro. The sweepstakes also will be promoted with a wide-reaching television, print and online advertising campaign that will further extend the DVD messaging and excitement.
This October, Hostess, the maker of America’s most iconic snack cakes, will be launching a national consumer promotion on approximately 17 million TRANSFORMERS themed packages at convenience and grocery/mass merchandiser retail stores. Consumers will be directed via www.hostesscakes.com to a Hostess micro-site where they can play an instant-win game for a chance to win a 50” Plasma TV and Home Entertainment system, portable DVD players and other prizes
http://home.businesswire.com/portal/site/google/index.jsp?ndmViewId=news_view&newsId=20070905005505&newsLang=en (http://home.businesswire.com/portal/site/google/index.jsp?ndmViewId=news_view&newsId=20070905005505&newsLang=en)
http://dvd.themanroom.com/dvd-newsview.php?id=703 (http://dvd.themanroom.com/dvd-newsview.php?id=703)
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One of the greatest news on earth! :D
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a $650M blockbuster and they can't even add a lossless track to go with it! shame!!!! pardon me but in my opinion Paramount should have stayed neutral. they were starting to add lossless or uncompressed PCM tracks to their BD releases na before they went exclusive. clearly even w/ hd dvd having more complete specifications, capacity is an issue in authoring hi definition content.
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^
I beg to disagree, its more of a time issue and the studio in general. At the current state of things, had Paramount stayed neutral the Blu Ray version will not contain the same interactive features but might include LPCM to compensate.
This is not to say that I am not disappointed though. If Warner can offer TrueHD with relatively lengthy movies like Troy I don't see a reason why other studios cant do the same. The dd+ soundtrack at 1.5mbps though would still sound great but there will be that nagging feeling for me on how it would sound on TrueHD.
Now, had the Blu Ray group started with complete specs then the choice would have been easy. No excuse for space constraints (which I still have reservations), no worries if future titles will play with all features enabled. If only this were the case.
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A lossless audio soundtrack would have been dandy and great to have, but still this is early great news for highdef fans. I dont think Ill stay away from this one just because it doesnt have a lossless soundtrack. The sound design of Transformers will make sure the DD+ soundtrack will be no slouch. Non-inclusion of TrueHD though will leave you wondering, just like John have mentioned........but for me, it will not take away the anticipation of getting a hand on this title :o :o
As for the issue whether Paramount had HD DVD space issues with this title or not, or it simply has time issues, we will not know for the moment and we will all purely speculate. Paramount's reason for going HD DVD has already been stated, and its time to see how highly anticipated releases like this affect the ongoings on this format war.
Im pretty sure some BD only fans are already thinking going neutral.....eyeing some $250 Tosh players.....just like the same effect on me when I just have to get a PS3 to watch those BD exclusives.
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a $650M blockbuster and they can't even add a lossless track to go with it! shame!!!! pardon me but in my opinion Paramount should have stayed neutral. they were starting to add lossless or uncompressed PCM tracks to their BD releases na before they went exclusive. clearly even w/ hd dvd having more complete specifications, capacity is an issue in authoring hi definition content.
Why, have you tried audibly distinguishing between lossless LPCM and high bitrate compressed audio? Most pundits on AV forums can't, at home or on double blind tests. It's purely psychology when you know its lossless that you think it's superior. But it's not. Because psychoaccoustics work. There's also such a thing as lossless compression. And especially in movies where your focus is divided between video and audio. LPCM offers no real sonic advantage over compressed audio at high bitrate. Just imagined advantage. It's the bitrate that matters. LPCM in high def disc is a wasteful unnecessary use of disc space.
LPCM is a 25+ year old technology that started with CDs. Blu ray is talking through its teeth when it promised NEXT Generation video and audio technologies when it fact it used a decades old MPEG2 technology coupled with a wasteful LPCM audio track when it launched it disappointing Fifth Element. What's so next gen about that. That's why I always had a poor opinion of Blu Ray. Had it not been for HD DVD, the early adopters would have swallowed mpeg2 and LPCM hook line and stinker and would never have known that a more effcient VC1 video transfer and DD+/DolbyTrueHD and DTS-HD can do the job just as well if not better on a lower capacity medium.
And no, with 30Gb using straight VC-1 and lossless compression audio codecs, capacity is never an issue in high definition for HD DVD. But IT IS an issue for blu ray if they use inefficient MPEG2 video codec and wasteful LPCM audio. And don't give me that BS that Toshiba is coming out with a 51gb triple layer disc to prove it is an issue. Wrong again. Toshiba did it just to match BD and to show it can be done if the time comes when 5 hour movies become the norm.
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A lossless audio soundtrack would have been dandy and great to have, but still this is early great news for highdef fans. I dont think Ill stay away from this one just because it doesnt have a lossless soundtrack. The sound design of Transformers will make sure the DD+ soundtrack will be no slouch. Non-inclusion of TrueHD though will leave you wondering, just like John have mentioned........but for me, it will not take away the anticipation of getting a hand on this title :o :o
Agree! We should be rejoicing na that we're getting this in HD DVD. Poor BD fanboys... ;D Just treat that TrueHD is the icing of the cake! As long as we get to eat the main delicious & yummy cake...we are a bunch of happy bee... :P
As for the VQ I'm expecting at least a 4.5-star rating & no less to do justice for this movie!! ;D
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Why, have you tried audibly distinguishing between lossless LPCM and high bitrate compressed audio? Most pundits on AV forums can't, at home or on double blind tests. It's purely psychology when you know its lossless that you think it's superior. But it's not. Because psychoaccoustics work. There's also such a thing as lossless compression. And especially in movies where your focus is divided between video and audio. LPCM offers no real sonic advantage over compressed audio at high bitrate. Just imagined advantage. It's the bitrate that matters. LPCM in high def disc is a wasteful unnecessary use of disc space.
would i comment on the lossless track if id didn't think it made it difference? i was also a pessimist before that lossless tracks don't make a difference but it does. i've tried it in my setup and i did hear a difference. have you compared lossless audio vs compressed in your system? if not how can you say there's no difference? don't just parrot what you read from other forums because for every one poster that says they can't hear a difference there are 5 who says otherwise. if you don't have first hand experience then just don't comment.
LPCM is a 25+ year old technology that started with CDs. Blu ray is talking through its teeth when it promised NEXT Generation video and audio technologies when it fact it used a decades old MPEG2 technology coupled with a wasteful LPCM audio track when it launched it disappointing Fifth Element. What's so next gen about that. That's why I always had a poor opinion of Blu Ray. Had it not been for HD DVD, the early adopters would have swallowed mpeg2 and LPCM hook line and stinker and would never have known that a more effcient VC1 video transfer and DD+/DolbyTrueHD and DTS-HD can do the job just as well if not better on a lower capacity medium.
And no, with 30Gb using straight VC-1 and lossless compression audio codecs, capacity is never an issue in high definition for HD DVD. But IT IS an issue for blu ray if they use inefficient MPEG2 video codec and wasteful LPCM audio. And don't give me that BS that Toshiba is coming out with a 51gb triple layer disc to prove it is an issue. Wrong again. Toshiba did it just to match BD and to show it can be done if the time comes when 5 hour movies become the norm.
what's wrong with using LPCM? its uncompressed audio. it's bit for bit identical w/ the original master. Mpeg-2 can be as good looking as VC-1. a number of movies encoded in mpeg-2 are in the top tiers in terms of PQ. Granted that TFE isn't one of the best looking BD's out there but it still looks a helluva lot better than DVD. Sony also released a remastered version that has TruHD and PCM and its one of the best looking movies out there right now.
if HD DVD really doesn't have a space issue then why didn't they even add a lossless track to Transformers? and Transformers isn't the only movie that Paramount has given a watered down version. Blades of Glory BD would have had( or should i say has?) a PCM track and HD DVD only has DD 5.1. the HD DVD version of Face Off will have less extras than the BD version would have.
PQ is only 50% of the HD/HT experience. the other 50% is AQ. I'm not a fanboy and i don't mindlessly support Bluray. i know BD has its faults but it also has its strengths. All i want is the best PQ & AQ i can get
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would i comment on the lossless track if id didn't think it made it difference? i was also a pessimist before that lossless tracks don't make a difference but it does. i've tried it in my setup and i did hear a difference. have you compared lossless audio vs compressed in your system? if not how can you say there's no difference? don't just parrot what you read from other forums because for every one poster that says they can't hear a difference there are 5 who says otherwise. if you don't have first hand experience then just don't comment.
I don't think you are talking to a early adopter. Funny about the parrot thing :D :D Those HD DVD fanboys used to laugh at BDs when they come out lacking in Audio options, especially those from Paramount(Happy Feet) . Now here comes an anticipated HD DVD from Paramount now lacking in Audio Options and now they say "SO WHAT?!?"
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I don't think you are talking to a early adopter. Funny about the parrot thing :D :D Those HD DVD fanboys used to laugh at BDs when they come out lacking in Audio options, especially those from Paramount(Happy Feet) . Now here comes an anticipated HD DVD from Paramount now lacking in Audio Options and now they say "SO WHAT?!?"
"So what" is better than "just wait" and wait and wait zzzzzzzz Im kinda sleepy ;D...1.1
Also we get the same response from the bd folks..Like "who needs extras", "Nobody watches special features" ;D
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Here's the scoop on Toshiba CEDIA Press Conference
Nope, this is not from beatboy :D :D
AVSforum (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=11534077#post11534077)
The theme was Star Trek and the presenters were dressed in Star Trek outfits and the stage was set with Star Trek decorations. The first presentation was all about their new LCD panels, however, I'll just discuss the HD DVD side of the presentation here.
Here's the list of the new news.
1. All Gen 3 players will be packed with Born Identity and 300. All ValueElectronics.com Gen 3 advance orders qualify for the two additional titles packed with the players.
2. Buy a HD DVD player and the Star Trek box set and their is a mail-in rebate for a Star Trek HD DVD phaser remote control unit, very cool looking and sound effects. All ValueElectronics.com pre-orders are eligible.
3. The 5 free HD DVD movies will be extended till 2/28/08 and new titles are added to the selection. xBox and notebook PC with HD DVD drives will qualify for the 5 free HD DVD movie offer.
4. Just considering Warner, Universal, Paramount, Dreamworks and Dreamworks Animation more than 125 new titles will be release by the end of '07.
5. Shinco, Ventura, Alpine, Onkyo and Integra and the 3 new Gen 3 HD DVD players will all ship by early Q4 '07.
6. Total HD DVD player unit sales are expected to reach more than 30 million stand alone units by the end of ‘07.
(http://img476.imageshack.us/img476/1349/picard8e0c70hl4.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
30 million stand alones in '07 is insane!!!
7. Amazon and ValueEletronics.com report the A2 is the #1 best seller.
8. According to NPD data, BD stand alone players have 16% market share, HD DVD enjoys a 33% market share, while SD DVD holds 51%.
Again, can we get a double check on this one? It's obviously incorrect because it implies there are nearly as many HDM stand alones in the market as SD DVD players.
9. All studios are going to expand the connectivity features, like on the Star Trek HD DVD you can connect to CBS's server and get a tour of the Star Ship Enterprise.
10. All Toshiba products are Earth friendly and will carry the "Earth Protection" logo on their packaging. There is a long list of things Toshiba has developed to ensure their Earth friendly compliance.
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No. 6 has got to be crazy talk! e one million units lang nga target nila for this year and that's down from their earlier forecast of 1.8M units.
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No. 6 has got to be crazy talk! e one million units lang nga target nila for this year and that's down from their earlier forecast of 1.8M units.
I think they're talking worldwide and they're anticipating that many fence sitters will jump the gun once all the existing hardware/players will be reduced (in price) when the 3rd Gen players rolls-out in the coming weeks. Couple this with the HD DVD release of Transformers and other titles to be announced soon. ;D
But yeah, 30M units is a lot in less than 4 months.. :o
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I think they're talking worldwide and they're anticipating that many fence sitters will jump the gun once all the existing hardware/players will be reduced (in price) when the 3rd Gen players roll-out in the coming weeks. Coupled this with the HD DVD release of Transformers. ;D
But yeah, 30M is a lot in less than 4 months.. :o
Total HD DVD player units include tosh and hp laptops, xbox 360 add on players and the stand alones.
I can be optimistic as I could get but yeah....30M is a lot....suntok sa buwan... ;D ;D
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hahaha suntok nga sa buwan ;D going neutral is pretty cheap. $250 for a player kaso i only want around 8 movies from Uni & Paramount.
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yeah looks like it took dvd over 2 years to reach the 3M mark. Single format pa yun nuon
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Nov 20th
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Oct 9th
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Oct 23rd
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Here's interesting news on both Bluray and HD-DVD at the Cedia Show
Toshiba Pushing Freebies to Lure HD DVD Buyers
By Mark Hachman
DENVER -- Want a pair of free HD DVD movies? How about five more? Will you take a branded Star Trek remote control?
In an attempt to sway undecided next-generation DVD buyers, Toshiba said Wednesday that it will continue offering free DVDs in an attempt to lock in consumers to its HD DVD format -- and increase the number of HD DVDs "sold" to consumers.
Toshiba also announced several next-generation HD DVD players, as did Sony. Sony, however, one-upped its competition by announcing the HES-V1000 media server, which contains both a hard drive for ripping media as well as a 200-disc Blu-ray disc changer.
Both companies are engaged in a heated dogfight for market share. Although neither company is going it alone, both Sony and Toshiba have been the champions of their respective camps. Behind the scenes, both companies are also lobbying movie studios to sign exclusive deals.
The Blu-ray disc format is generally considered to be the highest-selling format where the discs are concerned, picking up steam early in the year. According to Chris Fawcett, vice president of video marketing for the home division of Sony, who said he was quoting numbers from Nielsen Media Research, sales of Blu-ray discs were more than twice the number of HD DVD discs sold, or about 1.7 million.
"Three months later [after a June event, where Fawcett spoke] I'm even more confident," Fawcett said at a press conference held at the CEDIA trade show here. "The question is not if Blu-ray will win the format war, but when."
Fawcett cited a number of exclusives, including Target, the second largest retailer in the U.S., which will only offer Blu-ray hardware during the holidays, he said. He said recent NPD sales data showed that Blu-ray players were outselling HD DVD players as well, by about 300,000 units.
At Toshiba, the company preferred to emphasize that consumers intended to choose the HD DVD format. Jodi Sally, vice president of marketing for the Digital AV department at Toshiba cited a survey conducted by researcher NPD, which claimed that consumers were twice as likely to buy HD DVDs, by 33 percent to 16 percent. Unfortunately, an even 50 percent said they either intended to wait or were undecided, the survey found.
"HD DVD continues to boldly go where no format has gone before," Sally said.
That was a reference to geek fan favorite Star Trek, whose first season will be exclusively released on HD DVD, Sally said. If a consumer buys the first season Trek boxed set -- to be released on Nov. 20 for an undisclosed price -- as well as a Toshiba HD DVD player, Toshiba and CBS Home Entertainment will throw in a free remote control, shaped like a Star Trek phaser. The remote will operate any Toshiba DVD player, Sally said.
Toshiba didn't stop there. For every third-generation HD DVD player a consumer buys, the company will include an HD DVD copy of 300 and The Bourne Identity right in the box, Sally said. Moreover, from Oct. 1 through Feb. 28, 2008, Toshiba will give consumers the option to redeem five free HD DVDs, available via its Web site.
The free DVDs are significant, given that Nielsen Media factored in a similar Blu-ray promotion into its own sales tallies.
Toshiba plans three next-generation players: the HD-A3 ($299.99, available in Oct.); the HD-A30 ($399.99, available this month); and the HD-A35 ($499.99, available in October). The HD-A3 outputs up to 1080i, while the HD-A30 and A-35 can handle 1080p content. The A-35 includes support for "deep color," enabling dynamic color ranges beyond what the human eye can see. Both of the latter two models also include the HDMI-CEC or CE-Link capability, which allows the HD DVD player to control a Toshiba TV. Sally said that a user would simply have to press "play" on the HD DVD controller, and the TV would turn on as well.
Furthermore, Toshiba said it would issue a firmware update via Ethernet to its existing HD-XA2 and HD-A20 models, enabling them to process 1080p content at 24 frames per second.
Sony, meanwhile, announced two new players: the top-of-the-line BDP-S2000ES model, as well as the new BDP-S500. The new BDP-S2000ES and BDP-S500 players will be available this fall for about $1,300 and $700, respectively, Sony said.
Both players include support for full high-definition 1080/60p and 24p output, as well as 7.1 channel linear PCM and Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, and dts-HD High Resolution Audio bitstream output via HDMI 1.3. The BDP-S2000ES is apparently more rigidly constructed, with a dual-shield construction that prevents dust from collecting on the BD drive, and a rigid drive bracket to minimize vibration. The player also sports a rigid beam chassis that reduces internal vibration, improving playback, Sony said.
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Acer Joins HD DVD Promotional Group
Although reports from last week's IFA tradefair appeared to indicate that Taiwanese computer manufacturer Acer favored Blu-ray of HD DVD, a new press release puts them squarely in the dual-format camp.
When Acer announced last week that it had joined the Blu-ray Disc Association, it was widely assumed that the world's No. 4 PC vendor was now squarely in the Blu-ray corner.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Acer/Acer_Joins_HD_DVD_Promotional_Group/941)
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Toshiba Refutes Sony's Claims of Blu-ray Stand-Alone Player Dominance
Well, that didn't take long. Toshiba this afternoon issued a tersely-worded response to claims made by Sony at a CEDIA press conference last night.
As we first reported earlier today, Sony VP Chris Fawcett was quoted as saying that stand-alone Blu-ray players had begun out-selling their HD DVD counterparts over the last 12 weeks.
Given the extent to which HD DVD backers had previously emphasized their own lead in this category, Sony's claims set off a minor firestorm across the web -- so much so, apparently, that Toshiba felt compelled to issue its own statement in response this afternoon.
The statement reads as follows:
"In light of recent comments made regarding high definition stand-alone video players sales, Toshiba would like to reiterate its continued industry leading sales figures. Based on July data from NPD, Toshiba had a 55% market share year to date in high definition stand alone player sales followed by all Blu-ray companies at a combined 42%; the final 3 percent is held by dual format players.
While the competition may claim leadership based on one month of data, Toshiba has had continued sales leadership in every month since the original HD DVD players launched 17 months ago.
Toshiba is and continues to be a top seller at retailers such as Amazon, most recently reaching #1 on the site last week. As third generation players begin to come to market at the end of this month, Toshiba has full confidence that it will continue its momentum and lead in player sales. Additional information HD DVD and Toshiba’s players can be found at http://www.toshibahddvd.com"
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Hardware/Toshiba/CEDIA/Toshiba_Refutes_Sonys_Claims_of_Blu-ray_Stand-Alone_Player_Dominance/943)
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Toshiba plans three next-generation players: the HD-A3 ($299.99, available in Oct.); the HD-A30 ($399.99, available this month); and the HD-A35 ($499.99, available in October). The HD-A3 outputs up to 1080i, while the HD-A30 and A-35 can handle 1080p content. The A-35 includes support for "deep color," enabling dynamic color ranges beyond what the human eye can see. Both of the latter two models also include the HDMI-CEC or CE-Link capability, which allows the HD DVD player to control a Toshiba TV. Sally said that a user would simply have to press "play" on the HD DVD controller, and the TV would turn on as well.
Furthermore, Toshiba said it would issue a firmware update via Ethernet to its existing HD-XA2 and HD-A20 models, enabling them to process 1080p content at 24 frames per second.
Christmas is truly just around the corner!!!! ipon ipon na tyo mga bros!
p.s. thanks bro pchin for the pm
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Nov 20th
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Oct 9th
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Oct 23rd
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Oct 9th
very good titles to have........ ;D
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Transformers On HD DVD: Sound Good to You?
Now the HD-DVD crowd is upset with the announcement yesterday (Sept. 5) that the HD-DVD release will not have a Dolby TrueHD track and will have Dolby Digital + only at 1.5 mps.
The stone throwing has already started on the Internet forums. Even the BD fanboys are getting into the act claiming, with no proof whatsoever, that their is no lossless encode due to the lack of space on the HD-DVD, ignoring the fact that there are longer movies released on HD-DVD with TrueHD tracks.
Me? I will wait for the final product is released before I pass judgment on the sound quality. Too many HT enthusiasts and audiophiles get too caught up in the specs. There is more to real world performance than specs. Look at audio. I have many a component with great specs that sound awful and visa versa.
Let's relax guys and wait until we hear the track for ourselves in October. If you hate it, b**ch about it then but at least wait till you hear it before you pass judgment. ;D
Full article (http://www.tvpredictions.com/2007/09/transformers-on-hd-dvd-sound-good-to.html)
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Transformers On HD DVD: Sound Good to You?
Now the HD-DVD crowd is upset with the announcement yesterday (Sept. 5) that the HD-DVD release will not have a Dolby TrueHD track and will have Dolby Digital + only at 1.5 mps.
The stone throwing has already started on the Internet forums. Even the BD fanboys are getting into the act claiming, with no proof whatsoever, that their is no lossless encode due to the lack of space on the HD-DVD, ignoring the fact that there are longer movies released on HD-DVD with TrueHD tracks.
Me? I will wait for the final product is released before I pass judgment on the sound quality. Too many HT enthusiasts and audiophiles get too caught up in the specs. There is more to real world performance than specs. Look at audio. I have many a component with great specs that sound awful and visa versa.
Let's relax guys and wait until we hear the track for ourselves in October. If you hate it, b**ch about it then but at least wait till you hear it before you pass judgment. ;D
Full article (http://www.tvpredictions.com/2007/09/transformers-on-hd-dvd-sound-good-to.html)
Pretty logical article. I guess we wont know the difference until Paramount releases one with a TrueHD soundtrack. Til then, lets wait for AQ reviews when this title hit the streets. :)
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Transformers HD DVD cover; ;D
(http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/I/51CtzWj3eCL._SS384_.jpg)
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For the Harry Potter fans; ;D
Coming on Dec. 11, 2007!
(http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r92/redstorm_photos/HP2res.jpg) (http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r92/redstorm_photos/HP1res.jpg)
'Harry Potter and the Order of Phoenix' on HD DVD, Blu-ray in December
Warner Home Video will release 'Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix' on HD DVD and Blu-ray Disc on December 11, day-and-date with the release of multiple standard DVD editions. We expect the previous four Potter films to be available in a Blu-ray Disc or HD DVD limited edition box set packaged with Phoenix on the same date, as well as each previous Potter title being sold individually.
The HD DVD version of 'Harry Potter and the Order of Phoenix' will include a favorite scene reel, an In-Movie Experience feature (IME) where the cast from Dumbledore's Army come together to share memorable moments from the film, as well as web-enabled sycronized playback events and mobile downloads. These features are currently not planned for the Blu-ray version.
Other supplemental features will be identical to those found on the two-disc standard DVD version including 10 minutes of additional footage; an A&E documentary; Trailing tonks, where you can spend a day with Actress Nat Tena and receive a very personal and often wacky tour of the Harry Potter and The Order of the Phoenix stages; Making-of featurettes to discover just what is involved to create those amazing scenes and characters; Pick Your Favorite Scenes - Assemble your favorite clips from the movie, create your montage; Fun and Games -the director and editor show us what a difference a good edit makes.
Currently the only technical spec Warner has issued indicates the Blu-ray Disc version will be pressed onto a BD-50 discs and the HD DVD version will include Dolby Digital Plus 5.1 audio. We're going to wait for full specs before writing off the appearance of lossless audio on either format
http://dvd.themanroom.com/dvd-newsview.php?id=705 (http://dvd.themanroom.com/dvd-newsview.php?id=705)
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Save up guys!!!! ;D ;D
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IFA 2007: Pioneer Blu-ray Player, Cars, Sin City
(http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/2137/pioneer13256de8gv3.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
(http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/345/pioneer1127b141sg1.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
Pioneer unveiled their new Blu-ray player, the BDP-LX70A, which when released in Europe next month will supersede the BDP-LX70 model released earlier this year. The price of this high-end model will remain €1,300 and the only difference between the two models seems to be that the HDMI version has been upgraded from 1.2a to 1.3, which enables bitstream output of Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. The player also features 1080p/24, HDMI 1.3, HDMI-CEC, Ethernet and DLNA. Pioneer further plans to introduce another player model in the US, the BDP-95FD, which they will be able to offer more information about at CEDIA.
The highlight of Pioneer's Blu-ray showcase was their Blu-ray theater showroom where they were showing clips of new and upcoming Blu-ray movies including Cars, Wild Hogs, Sin City and Batman Begins. The Cars footage showed off the "Car Finder" interactive BD-Java feature allowing users to search for the more than 200 different cars featured in the movie, and even "race the clock" to find a specific car in a frozen frame of film. The Sin City and Batman Begins footage is hopefully a sign that these movies are being prepared for release and will make an appearance on Blu-ray soon.
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=487
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IFA 2007: Panasonic Blu-ray Player and Premium Theatre
(http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/4193/panasonic032c3756uc0.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
(http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/2663/panasonic062c92b4og2.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
(http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/6637/panasonic082cf026mw4.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
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(http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/363/panasonic162dc1afkz1.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
Panasonic brought their DMP-BD10A Blu-ray player released earlier this summer, as well as some of their Blu-ray drives for desktop and notebook computers. However, the main attraction at Panasonic was their Premium Blu-ray Theatre featuring 5 large plasma screen HDTV's and 5.1-channel surround sound. In the theatre they were showing HD music videos by a new group called Three Graces, a trio of girls that blend their various backgrounds in Opera, Pop and Broadway to create a new sound. Their debut album will be released in January 22, 2008. We're not exactly sure how they were able to feed different video streams to the plasma screens and keep it perfectly synced, but it was an interesting experience.
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=488
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Transformers HD DVD cover; ;D
The cover art is a bit plain but hey I can't complain.... :P
For the Harry Potter fans; ;D Coming on Dec. 11, 2007!
We expect the previous four Potter films to be available in a Blu-ray Disc or HD DVD limited edition box set packaged with Phoenix on the same date
Wow...massive news...greatest damage of the year to our wallet! ;D Yes, we better save up now...it's a big crazy spending spree season! ;D
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IFA 2007: Panasonic Blu-ray Player and Premium Theatre
(http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/4193/panasonic032c3756uc0.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
(http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/2663/panasonic062c92b4og2.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
(http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/6637/panasonic082cf026mw4.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
(http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/6241/panasonic112d40e6kj2.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
(http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/363/panasonic162dc1afkz1.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
Panasonic brought their DMP-BD10A Blu-ray player released earlier this summer, as well as some of their Blu-ray drives for desktop and notebook computers. However, the main attraction at Panasonic was their Premium Blu-ray Theatre featuring 5 large plasma screen HDTV's and 5.1-channel surround sound. In the theatre they were showing HD music videos by a new group called Three Graces, a trio of girls that blend their various backgrounds in Opera, Pop and Broadway to create a new sound. Their debut album will be released in January 22, 2008. We're not exactly sure how they were able to feed different video streams to the plasma screens and keep it perfectly synced, but it was an interesting experience.
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=488
Wow how I wish they have these kind of shows here in the Philippines
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http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=904741
The titles making new appearances on the list:
10,000 B.C.
The Adventures of Robinhood
Appleseed Ex Machina
The Assassination of Jesse James
August Rush
The Aviator
Batman Begins
Batman Anime
The Best of HD DVD: Family
The Best of HD DVD: Action
Bonnie and Clyde
Brave One
The Bucket List
Casablanca
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
The Cincinnati Kid
Clash of the Titans
Complete Matrix Trilogy
Cool Hand Luke
Dark Knight
The Dead Pool
Dirty Harry
The Enforcer
Falling Down
The Feast of Love
Fool's Gold
Fred Claus
Friends: The Complete First Season
Get Smart
The Goonies
Grand Prix
The Green Mile
Harry Potter (All of them being sold seperate)
Heat
I Am Legend
In the Valley of Elah
The Invasion
Justice League: The Frontier
L.A. Confidential
Magnum Force Deluxe Ed
Matrix (All of them being sold seperate)
The Matrix Online Game Card
Men
Michael Clayton
Mutiny on the Bounty
Natural Born Killers
Nights in Rodanthe
No Reservations
Ocean's (All of them being sold seperate)
One Missed Call
Perfect Storm
Poltergeist
Poseidon
The Promise
Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves
Smallville: The Complete First Season
Speed Racer
Spring Breakdown
Sudden Impact
Superman Doomsday
Taking Lives
That's Entertainment
That's Entertainment 2
That's Entertainment 3
That's Entertainment Trilogy Giftset
Twister
The Ultimate Matrix Trilogy
V for Vendetta
The West Wing: The Complete Seventh Season
Whiteout
The Wizard of Oz
Access the website here: Warner Bros. High Definition (http://"http://www.warnervideo.com/warner_bros_hi_definition/us/html/titles.html")
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Good for BD fanboys. It's a nice long list! As the other member put it:
"Nothing has been announced or confirmed. Looks like a teaser" :P
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ARRGH...ang ganda nito...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7A4UKRwSZZo
Will be my second HD dip for this title >:( >:(
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would i comment on the lossless track if id didn't think it made it difference? i was also a pessimist before that lossless tracks don't make a difference but it does. i've tried it in my setup and i did hear a difference. have you compared lossless audio vs compressed in your system? if not how can you say there's no difference? don't just parrot what you read from other forums because for every one poster that says they can't hear a difference there are 5 who says otherwise. if you don't have first hand experience then just don't comment.
what's wrong with using LPCM? its uncompressed audio. it's bit for bit identical w/ the original master. Mpeg-2 can be as good looking as VC-1. a number of movies encoded in mpeg-2 are in the top tiers in terms of PQ. Granted that TFE isn't one of the best looking BD's out there but it still looks a helluva lot better than DVD. Sony also released a remastered version that has TruHD and PCM and its one of the best looking movies out there right now.
if HD DVD really doesn't have a space issue then why didn't they even add a lossless track to Transformers? and Transformers isn't the only movie that Paramount has given a watered down version. Blades of Glory BD would have had( or should i say has?) a PCM track and HD DVD only has DD 5.1. the HD DVD version of Face Off will have less extras than the BD version would have.
PQ is only 50% of the HD/HT experience. the other 50% is AQ. I'm not a fanboy and i don't mindlessly support Bluray. i know BD has its faults but it also has its strengths. All i want is the best PQ & AQ i can get
You should check this out
http://www.highdefforum.com/showthread.php?t=50603
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ARRGH...ang ganda nito...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7A4UKRwSZZo
Will be my second HD dip for this title >:( >:(
Wow...It's in DTS HD 7.1 audio!! This is a must have!! :o It's one of my favourite movies of all time! ;)
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Report: DVD Forum Approves 51GB HD DVD
(http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3619/original.jpeg)
The 51GB HD DVD disc is apparently one step closer to becoming a reality.
According a published report from UK research firm Screen Digest, the DVD Forum (the international organization responsible for DVD standards) has approved a 51 GB single-sided triple-layer HD DVD disc for production.
First announced by Toshiba last January at CES, a 51GB HD DVD disc would up the format's current dual-layer maximum storage capacity by a cool 21GB, but more importantly, it would close the gap between HD DVD and Blu-ray. Blu-ray currently supports 50GB discs, which has been one of the primary tech advantages it holds over its rival.
The extention to the existing HD DVD standard was submitted by Toshiba in April and was said to be approved on August 31st.
While DVD Forum approval is one obstacle cleared for Toshiba, it remains to be seen when (or even if) the new disc type will actually be put into use for movie releases. Insiders say it could take years for production yields to reach manageable levels, and there are conflicting reports as to whether or not the new triple layer discs would be supported by current players.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/51_GB_Disc/Toshiba/Report:_DVD_Forum_Approves_51GB_HD_DVD/949)
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Ocean's 13 on Nov. 12;
(http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r92/redstorm_photos/OceansBDfrontres.jpg) (http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r92/redstorm_photos/OceansHDDVDfrontres.jpg)
;D
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Shawshank Redemption, T3, and Twister Announced
Warner Home Video has added three films to their release slate, all set to come to Blu-ray later this year. 'The Shawshank Redemption', rated one of the best movies of all time, 'Terminator 3', and 'Twister' have all been put on the release schedule. 'The Shawshank Redemption' will be released on a BD-50. No other specs or dates have been announced at this time.
Also of note, Warner will be releasing a 'The Best of Blu-ray: Action' set which consists of 'Alexander Revisited: (Unrated) Final Cut', 'Blood Diamond', 'Troy Director's Cut (Unrated)' and 'Wyatt Earp' and a 'The Best of Blu-ray: Family' set which consists of 'The Ant Bully', 'Happy Feet', 'Scooby Doo: The Movie', and 'Tim Burton's: The Corpse Bride' on the same day. Specs will be the same as the individual releases.
And while this is most likely an error, Warner also lists 'A Little Princess' coming September 25th. The 1995 version directed by Alfonso Cuarón is listed coming on a BD-50 with Dolby Digital surround.
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=495
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Wow how I wish they have these kind of shows here in the Philippines
(http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/6192/bda10cdcf8as0.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
:P :P :P :P
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Shawshank Redemption, T3, and Twister Announced
Warner Home Video has added three films to their release slate, all set to come to Blu-ray later this year. 'The Shawshank Redemption', rated one of the best movies of all time, 'Terminator 3', and 'Twister' have all been put on the release schedule. 'The Shawshank Redemption' will be released on a BD-50. No other specs or dates have been announced at this time.
...
Hoping Twister will deliver in terms of audio quality... that would really be awesome!!!
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Paramount Bumps 'Saturday Night Fever' HD DVD
You can put that polyester suit back in the closet, 'Saturday Night Fever' fans: next week's HD DVD version of the '70s classic has been indefinitely postponed.
News of a next-gen 'Saturday Night Fever' release in first surfaced this past April, when Paramount issued a promotional flyer touting the seminal 1977 John Travolta blockbuster as "Coming Soon," even including pics of proposed box art for both HD DVD and Blu-ray versions. Later, the studio officially announced a cross-format bow to celebrate the film's 30th anniversary, with a scheduled street date of September 18.
Though Paramount's subsequent revelation in late August that it was going HD DVD-exclusive saw plans scrapped for any immediate 'Fever' release on Blu-ray, the studio has now removed the HD DVD version from next week's release schedule as well.
Though Paramount has not revealed any reason for the bump of the HD DVD, the standard DVD version remains on track for release next week. We'll certainly keep you posted if/when a high-def version is re-announced by the studio.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Paramount/Street_Date_Delays/Paramount_Bumps_Saturday_Night_Fever_HD_DVD/947)
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'Aviator' Soars to HD DVD, Blu-ray
Warner Home Video has announced it will bring Martin Scorsese's Oscar-decorated 'The Aviator' to Blu-ray and HD DVD this November.
The highly-acclaimed biopic of the legendary Howard Hughes, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Cate Blanchett and Alan Alda (all Oscar nominees for their work) scored over $100 million at the domestic box office, and will hit both next-gen formats November 6.
Tech specs include 1080p video and Dolby Digital 5.1 surround audio (at 640kbps) -- sadly, no high-resolution formats will be offered.
Extras include an audio commentary by Scorsese, a History Channel special on the real Hughes, a deleted scene, still gallery and the original theatrical trailer.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Disc_Announcements/Aviator_Soars_to_HD_DVD,_Blu-ray/952)
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'Ocean's Flicks Get Boxed In with Blu-ray, HD DVD Giftsets
(http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3631/original.jpeg)
Warner Home Video has unveiled specs for its Blu-ray and HD DVD 'Ocean's Giftset,' which will be only way fans can get their hands on next-gen editions of 'Ocean's Eleven' and 'Ocean's Twelve.'
As the studio first announced last week, they will be bringing all three 'Ocean's flicks to high-def on November 13, timed to coincide with the standard-def debut of the latest in the blockbuster franchise, 'Ocean's Thirteen.'
But while 'Thirteen' will be made available separately as a stand-alone Blu-ray and HD DVD release, the first two films in the series, 'Ocean's Eleven and 'Ocean's Twelve,' will be packaged exclusively as part of the high-def 'Ocean's Giftset' collections.
The version of 'Ocean's Thirteen' included in the box sets will be identical to the next-gen stand-alone editions of the title, while 'Eleven' and 'Twelve' will include all of the same extras found on the previously-released standard-def DVD editions.
In addition, exclusive to the Blu-ray and HD DVD 'Ocean's Giftsets' will be never-before-seen additional footage and deleted scenes, plus more still to be announced.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Disc_Announcements/Oceans_Flicks_Get_Boxed_In_with_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD_Giftsets/953)
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Warner Bros. Weighing HD DVD Offer? :)
Warner Bros is considering a "lucrative offer" to back HD DVD exclusively in the high-def disc format war.
That's according to an article in today's Los Angeles Times.
Warner Bros. is now releasing titles in both Blu-ray and HD DVD and the studio has preached that the two-format approach has led to increased sales of such titles as The Departed.
But the surprise departure last month of Steve Nickerson, Warner Home Video's senior vice president for High-Definition, has raised speculation that the studio may be reconsidering its policy. Nickerson was an outspoken booster of the two-format approach in the high-def war.
The Times writes that "Hollywood insiders" say Warner is "mulling over a lucrative offer that could bring such popular titles as Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix into the HD DVD camp." The newspaper doesn't say, but the offer is presumably from Toshiba, the leading backer of the HD DVD format.
If Warner were to endorse HD DVD exclusively, it would follow similar exclusive endorsements last month from Paramount and DreamWorks. (Universal is also backing HD DVD exclusively while four major studios are supporting Blu-ray exclusively.)
While a Warner switch would seriously boost HD DVD's chances in the high-def format war, the Times reports that the Blu-ray side is also busy trying to line up exclusive deals with studios and retailers.
Wal-Mart, the newspaper said, had set a mid-August deadline for deciding which format to keep in its stores; it now carries both players. But Toshiba supposedly offered a large promotional budget to support HD DVD sales in a recent meeting at Wal-Mart headquarters.
Wal-Mart would not comment on that, but told the Times that "it would be good for the studios or somebody to make the call (on the high-def format war.)."
Source (http://www.tvpredictions.com/warner091007.htm)
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If warner goes hddvd exclusive, I can smell its almost over, next will be Lionsgate and Disney thats for sure na, then party's over for blu-ray. Who will pay fox's titles at 27.95, well not me, I will go selective on fox titles if ever. If Im warner I would do this because of the long term benefits and not looking at the short term making money on both sides by staying neutral, thus prolonging the war. Of course just my opinion.
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MY TWO CENTS - 9/11/07 - by Digital Bits editor Bill Hunt
Okay... we've got just a quick update for you on the Toshiba thing from yesterday's post. Apparently, this story in the L.A. Times (also carried in Newsday) was based on information that's a couple weeks out of date. This "offer" from Toshiba that the piece speaks about was apparently the one made the week Paramount and DreamWorks went HD-DVD exclusive. Our sources are telling us that Warner rejected that offer, preferring to stay format neutral. This offer thing being reported today is apparently old news.
We'll try to have more on this in the next day or two, but despite appearances - and the latest PR spin - there's no been no change in Warner's policy with regard to either high-def format.
http://www.digitalbits.com/#mytwocents
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IFA 2007: Blu-ray Disc Association
Posted September 10, 2007 by Marwin
The Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA), similarly to previous years had a joint booth located at the center of the main IFA hall where all of their member companies could display their upcoming Blu-ray products. However, as those that have been following our coverage from IFA already have seen, Blu-ray was everywhere and virtually every large consumer electronics manufacturer (Sony, Samsung, Panasonic, Pioneer, Philips, Sharp, LG, JVC, Hitachi, Denon, Loewe, Daewoo, Funai) featured various Blu-ray products in their own halls/booths as well.
The BDA also held a press conference at IFA where they announced that China Hualu and Acer had joined the BDA. China Hualu, which has close ties to Panasonic and interestingly created the first DVD player production line in China in 1998, revealed that they are in the process of setting up a Blu-ray authoring center in China and will begin releasing local content on Blu-ray. As for Acer, with the addition of them as a contributing member it means that the top four PC makers now are supporting the format. Other significant announcements at IFA included the Hitachi Blu-ray camcorders that will be introduced in October.
At the press conference, the BDA further revealed that Blu-ray software so far this year has outsold HD DVD in the US (67%), Europe (70%), as well as Japan (90%+). In addition, representatives from Disney, Sony Pictures, Fox/MGM and Warner detailed their plans for upcoming Blu-ray titles in the fourth quarter and beyond. Warner, which chose to only appear at the BDA press conference and not the HD DVD one, promised to release more Blu-ray titles in Q4 than in Q1, Q2 and Q3 combined.
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(http://images.dvdempire.com/gen/movies/1244395h.jpg)
October 9th
(http://www.loaded247.com/reg1full/30156.jpg)
November 6th
(http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/I/51x0iozceFL._SS400_.jpg)
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It's Official: New Line Jumps Into High-Def with 'Hairspray'
Ending over a year of speculation, New Line has announced it is finally throwing its hat into the next-gen ring with 'Hairspray' this November.
The studio has confirmed to the industry trades Video Business and Home Media Magazine that it will bow the $110 million-plus domestic grosser on November 20, day-and-date on Blu-ray and standard-def DVD. An HD DVD edition will follow, though no exact street date has been set.
Moving forward, New Line will follow the strategy of its parent company Warner, and maintain a format-neutral approach by releasing titles on Blu-ray and HD DVD. Following the recent defection of Paramount to the HD DVD-only camp, New Line and Warner are now the only two studios currently supporting both formats.
"Clearly, there isn't a format winner at this point, so we’re going to adopt the strategy from Warner, our sister company, and mirror what they are doing," Matt Lasorsa, New Line EVP of marketing, told Home Media Magazine. "And by supporting both formats, we are giving consumers the ultimate choice."
New Line's dual-format support does not come as a surprise, as this isn't the first time we've heard official talk of a planned next-gen release for 'Hairspray.' As we've reported just this morning, New Line had already confirmed that an announcement was imminent.
However, the delayed release of 'Hairspray' on HD DVD is a departure from Warner's policy of usually releasing its high-def titles on both formats simultaneously. Lasorsa blamed the delay to HD DVD's lack of region coding versus Blu-ray.
"Since we sell to independent international distributors, we have to be more sensitive to their release dates than a major studio," Lasorsa added. "But for second-party acquisitions to which we don't have international rights, we will be day-and-date on all three formats."
New Line is expected to issue a full press release for the Blu-ray release of 'Hairspray' shortly, but early specs revealed to Video Business trumpet a fully-loaded special edition. Among the extras is the "You Can't Stop the Beat" documentary, multiple audio commentaries, deleted scenes, and a bonus dance number.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray release will be a "Behind the Beat" picture-in-picture video commentary similar to the popular In-Movie Experience feature on rival HD DVD. (When 'Hairspray' does finally hit HD DVD next year, it is also expected to include the same bonus features, plus additional web-enabled features.)
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/New_Line/Disc_Announcements/Its_Official:_New_Line_Jumps_Into_High-Def_with_Hairspray/958)
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For the Harry Potter fans; ;D
Coming on Dec. 11, 2007!
(http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r92/redstorm_photos/HP2res.jpg) (http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r92/redstorm_photos/HP1res.jpg)
'Harry Potter and the Order of Phoenix' on HD DVD, Blu-ray in December
Great news! :D
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Exclusive US Domestic Blu-ray titles for the remainder of 2007 (as of 9/8/07):
September 11, 2007
The Replacement Killers (Sony)
September 18, 2007
The Condemned (Lionsgate)
David Gilmour: Remember That Night (Sony BMG)
A Few Good Men (Sony)
House of 1000 Corpses (Lionsgate)
September 25, 2007
Black Book (Sony)
Memoirs of a Geisha (Sony)
Tekkonkinkreet (Sony)
Underworld (Sony)
October 02, 2007
Bram Stoker's Dracula (Sony)
Dawn of the Dead (1978) (Starz)
The Day After Tomorrow (Fox)
Day of the Dead (1985) (Starz)
Evil Dead 2: Dead by Dawn (Starz)
Fantastic Four: The Rise of the Silver Surfer (Fox)
Halloween (1978) (Starz)
Master & Commander (Fox)
October 09, 2007
28 Days Later (Fox)
28 Weeks Later (Fox)
The Amityville Horror (1979) (MGM)
Edward Scissorhands (Fox)
The Fly (1986) (Fox)
From Hell (Fox)
Reign Over Me (Sony)
RoboCop (MGM)
Surf's Up (Sony)
October 16, 2007
Hollow Man (Director's Cut) (Sony)
The Invisible (Buena Vista)
Masters of Horror: Season One - Volume One (Starz)
Masters of Horror: Season One - Volume Two (Starz)
October 23, 2007
The Company (2007) (Sony)
The Hills Have Eyes 2 (2007) (Fox)
Home of the Brave (Fox)
Hostel (Director's Cut) (Sony)
Hostel: Part II (Sony)
King of New York (Lionsgate)
Meet the Robinsons (Walt Disney)
Mr. Brooks (MGM)
Scary Movie (Dimension)
October 30, 2007
Spider-Man 3 (Sony)
Spider-Man: The High-Definition Trilogy (Sony)
November 06, 2007
Battle of Britain (MGM)
Beowulf & Grendel (Starz)
A Bridge Too Far (MGM)
Cars (Buena Vista)
Monty Python's Life of Brian (Sony)
Oldboy (Tartan)
The Pixar Short Films Collection: Volume 1 (Walt Disney)
Ratatouille (Walt Disney)
Red Dawn (MGM)
November 13, 2007
Close Encounters of the Third Kind (Sony)
Dragon Ball Z: Broly - The Legendary Super Saiyan/Broly - Second Coming (Double Feature) (FUNimation)
I, Robot (Fox)
IMAX: Africa the Serengeti (Razor Digital)
IMAX: Alaska Spirit of the Wild (Razor Digital)
IMAX: Antarctica -- An Adventure of a Different Nature (Razor Digital)
IMAX: Australia Land Beyond Time (Razor Digital)
Masters of Horror: Season One - Volume Three (Starz)
Prison Break: Season One (Fox)
November 20, 2007
Badder Santa: The Unrated Version (Buena Vista)
The Die Hard Trilogy (Fox)
Live Free or Die Hard (Fox)
Pathfinder (Fox)
The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause (Buena Vista)
December 04, 2007
20 Million Miles to Earth (Sony)
Cast Away (Fox)
Independence Day (Fox)
Mr. & Mrs. Smith (Fox)
Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End (Buena Vista)
Ronin (MGM)
December 11, 2007
High School Musical 2 (Walt Disney)
Lost: The Complete Third Season - The Unexplored Experience (Disney)
Masters of Horror: Season One - Volume Four (Starz)
Exclusive US Domestic HD DVD titles for the remainder of 2007 (as of 9/8/07):
September 18, 2007
Elizabeth (Universal)
For Love of the Game (Universal)
The Last Starfighter (Universal)
Saturday Night Fever (Paramount)
September 25, 2007
Evening (Universal)
Freedom: 2 (Bandai Visual)
The Getaway (1994) (Universal)
Knocked Up (Universal)
Next (Paramount)
Patch Adams (Universal)
October 02, 2007
Dreaming Nevada (The Picture)
Top Gun (Paramount)
October 09, 2007
Evan Almighty (Universal)
October 16, 2007
A Mighty Heart (Paramount)
Transformers (DreamWorks)
October 23, 2007
Carlito's Way (Universal)
Carlito's Way: Rise to Power (Universal)
Inside Man (Universal)
The Jack Ryan Collection (Paramount)
Seed of Chucky (Universal Entetainment)
October 30, 2007
Face/Off (Paramount)
Talk to Me (Universal)
November 13, 2007
Pride & Prejudice (2005) (Universal)
November 20, 2007
Star Trek: The Original Series -- The Complete First Season (Paramount)
Tremors (Universal)
November 27, 2007
Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (DreamWorks)
Old School (Paramount)
December 04, 2007
Battlestar Galactica: Season One (Universal)
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=11565221#post11565221
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Rumour denied...
Warner: We're Staying With HD DVD & Blu-ray
Washington, D.C. (September 12, 2007) -- Warner Home Video president Ron Sanders says the studio will continue to release films on Blu-ray and HD DVD high-def discs.
At least for now.
That's according to an article by TWICE Magazine.
The Los Angeles Times reported this week that Warner has received a "lucrative" offer from HD DVD supporters to back HD DVD exclusively in the format war. Paramount last month stunned the industry by announcing that it would support HD DVD exclusively. (Four major studios back Blu-ray only.)
But Sanders tells TWICE that Warner will "remain committed to both for the time being."
"We're talking to both sides and it’s crazy right now," he said. "We’ll see how the fourth quarter plays out. The consumer is still kind of divided, and we still believe that we should offer the content in both formats. Now, we will watch the marketplace very closely, and see how it plays out, but for now we are supporting both."
Interestingly, Sanders didn't deny the premise of TWICE's question: "Have you received offers from HD DVD or Blu-ray to be exclusive with either format, as Paramount recently did with HD DVD?"
Instead, he avoided a direct answer by saying "we're talking to both sides" and that Warner will "remain committed to both for the time being."
Sanders also told TWICE that Warner will release all four Harry Potter movies on high-def disc in time for the holiday season.
http://www.tvpredictions.com/warner091207.htm
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Universal Sets 'Chuck & Larry' HD DVD Date, Specs
(http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3652/original.jpeg)
Confirming recent rumors, Universal Studios Home Entertainment has officially announced specs and a November HD DVD debut for 'I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry.'
Earlier this month the studio teased us with only preliminary release details for the $120 million-grossing Adam Sandler comedy, without providing an exact street date and meager specs.
Now, they've confirmed a widely rumored November 6 day-and-date arrival on both HD DVD and standard-def DVD, though sadly supplements remain slim.
The only announced bonus features on the HD DVD/DVD combo are deleted scenes and alternate takes, plus an outtake reel. Exclusive "U-Control" extras were originally expected but so far remain unconfirmed -- we'll keep you posted.
Tech specs include 1080p/VC-1 video and Dolby TrueHD and Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 surround tracks.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Disc_Announcements/Universal_Sets_Chuck_&_Larry_HD_DVD_Date,_Specs/964)
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Warner: HD DVD/Blu-ray Hybrid Disc "On Hold For Now"
(http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3651/original.jpeg)
Last we heard, Warner's "Total HD" hybrid disc was due in early 2008, but now the studio says it's on hold, with no release date currently in sight.
The studio shook things up at CES this past January when it announced that it would introduce a new HD DVD/Blu-ray hybrid disc by mid 2007. A single disc capable of being played on both Blu-ray and HD DVD players seemed to offer a compelling (if inefficient) short term solution for the format war, and appeared to be the anchor of Warner's dual-format stance throughout much of the year.
Alas, it looks like Total HD is not to be -- at least not in the foreseeable future. After previously delaying its initial mid-2007 launch date until early 2008, now the studio says that the hybrid format is "on hold for now."
In comments first published by TWICE Magazine, Warner Home Video president Ron Sanders explained, "we’re concerned that as the only one publishing on it, it would be hard to make it go." He went on to say the company was still talking to retailers about rolling out the hybrid format sometime in the future.
As for the rumors that Warner is weighing lucrative offers to go format-exclusive, Sanders acknowledged discussions with both camps, but seemed to indicate that the studio would support both high-def formats through the holiday shopping season.
"We’re talking to both sides and it’s crazy right now," said Sanders. "We remain committed to both for the time being. We’ll see how the fourth quarter plays out. The consumer is still kind of divided, and we still believe that we should offer the content in both formats. Now, we will watch the marketplace very closely, and see how it plays out, but for now we are supporting both."
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Industry_Trends/Warner/Total_HD/Warner:_HD_DVD/Blu-ray_Hybrid_Disc_On_Hold_For_Now/965)
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Warner: HD DVD/Blu-ray Hybrid Disc "On Hold For Now"
(http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3651/original.jpeg)
If this will be the type of packaging/slipcase for such HD disc, I find it monotonous or something because of the color combination. You have to choose which side will be facing front once you place it in shelf, either all red or all blue or alternate... ;D
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'Twister' Storms to Blu-ray, HD DVD in 2008
(http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3656/original.jpeg)
In an early announcement, Warner Home Video has confirmed it will bring 'Twister' to Blu-ray and HD DVD this January.
In the first major next-gen release to be officially announced for the new year, the 1996 blockbuster is set to blow onto both high-def formats January 8.
Given the long lead time of the announcement, there are no specs nor supplements available as of yet. However, the studio plans to debut a new two-disc DVD special edition of the film on the same day, so early indicators look good for fully-loaded next-gen editions.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Disc_Announcements/Twister_Storms_to_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD_in_2008/967)
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(http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/8356/attachment1af01egp7.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
Universal Logo on a Blu ray disc...
Blasphemy!! :D :D :D
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(http://i204.photobucket.com/albums/bb272/TauHeel05/Picture8.png)
Full Metal Jacket (Deluxe Edition) on Blu-ray, October 23rd.
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(http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/8356/attachment1af01egp7.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
Universal Logo on a Blu ray disc...
Blasphemy!! :D :D :D
Hindi kaya pirated copy to? ;D ;D ;D
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The Jason Bourne Collection (HD DVD)
(http://www.dvdtherapy.com/upload/1190042132_bournecollection_expld.jpg?)
Coming Dec. 11!
On December 11th Universal Home Video will release The Jason Bourne Collection on DVD and HD-DVD.
The collection will include both previous Bourne films plus The Bourne Ultimatum for the first time. All three films will come housed in collectible 'Safe Deposit Box' packaging which will include a Jason Bourne passport. No disc specs have been released at this time but once we receive the final press release we will let you know!
http://www.dvdtherapy.com/news.php (http://www.dvdtherapy.com/news.php)
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Wow! Look at that! Another limited edition from Universal... and knowing it's from Universal, limited might really mean limited...
It says December 11, but in Amazon, the standard DVD's release date is October 23.
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The Jason Bourne Collection (HD DVD)
(http://www.dvdtherapy.com/upload/1190042132_bournecollection_expld.jpg?)
Coming Dec. 11!
On December 11th Universal Home Video will release The Jason Bourne Collection on DVD and HD-DVD.
The collection will include both previous Bourne films plus The Bourne Ultimatum for the first time. All three films will come housed in collectible 'Safe Deposit Box' packaging which will include a Jason Bourne passport. No disc specs have been released at this time but once we receive the final press release we will let you know!
http://www.dvdtherapy.com/news.php (http://www.dvdtherapy.com/news.php)
thats why I cancelled my Bourne Identity and Bourne Supremacy orders.....a really costly 4th quarter....
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Another great news...gosh Nov & Dec will surely suck us dry man & they're just around the corner... ;D
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spiderman bluray trilogy is out in the aussie market, im still checking whether is it region free or not 8)
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spiderman bluray trilogy is out in the aussie market, im still checking whether is it region free or not 8)
Confirmed- it's region free (ABC)! ;D
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may amazon ba sa australia? how can we order from there? :)
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(http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/3414/topgun1wg1hw8.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
(http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/4882/topgun2jl5ro1.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
If you still have your DVD SE, don't get rid of it. This edition has NO SPECIAL FEATURES >:( >:( >:(
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Report Predicts Blu-ray, HD DVD to Co-Exist
A new report examining the evolution of the high-def market predicts both next-gen disc formats are here to stay, and that most studios are likely to end up supporting both formats.
Released today by UK-based media analysts Screen Digest, the report includes detailed forecasts of consumer sales and revenues in the US and Europe for both new video formats through 2011, with each predicted to establish a viable installed base.
The report goes on to calculate that format-exclusive studios could be missing out on significant revenues, potentially eschewing over $270 million in consumer spending over 2008 alone. With so much at stake, Screen Digest expects several single-format studios to reassess their positions in 2008.
Although Paramount's recent decision to exclusively support HD DVD would seem to undermine the report's prediction, Screen Digest says that the move effectively secured HD DVD's immediate future, and cleared the way for the other studios that currently support one platform only to move to an agnostic position without being perceived as the studio solely responsible for prolonging a format war, or for killing off one of the formats.
"Christmas 2007 is going to be critical for the hi-def video business," said Richard Cooper, Screen Digest Video Analyst. "Both formats will be seeking to secure consumer buy-in to their proposition during the critical holiday season but with so much at stake on both sides we think it is highly unlikely that one format will emerge as the 'winner.'
"Once it becomes clear that both formats are gaining customer acceptance, studios that have chosen to support one format over the other will realize that they are missing out on potential sales and will have to decide how long they can afford to place principle over profit."
"We believe that eventually most will decide to offer their titles on both HD DVD and Blu-ray in order to maximize their returns."
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Industry_Forecasts/Report_Predicts_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD_to_Co-Exist/971)
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New Details Emerge for Blu-ray, HD DVD editions of 'Harry Potter Years 1-5' Gift Set
(http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3604/original.jpeg)
Warner Home Video has revealed new details for the Blu-ray and HD DVD releases of 'Harry Potter Years 1-5,' including first word of several extras exclusive to the new limited edition gift set.
As we've previously reported, earlier this month Warner announced that it would release the five-movie box set alongside 'Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix' in a cross-format bow on December 11. But while specs for 'Order of the Phoenix' were included in that original release, details for the box set have been sketchy until now.
According a new press release from the studio, both the HD DVD and Blu-ray versions of 'Years 1-5' will span seven discs -- five HD-30s on the HD DVD, and five BD-50s for the Blu-ray for each of the films, plus two additional standard-def discs with exclusive bonus content.
Each movie disc will replicate the same bonus materials as found on their respective two-disc standard-def DVD counterparts, including audio commentaries, multiple featurettes, deleted scenes and more. (Tech specs remain TBA, but we'll keep you posted.)
The two discs of bonus content will be a mix of interactive games, and never-before-seen 'Potter' content. The first disc, entitled "Hogwarts Challenge," will include what Warner describes as a "unique interactive gaming experience with 14 adventure games based on the first three Harry Potter films, and containing clips from the fourth and fifth films." The second disc, "Bonus Materials," will feature more than three hours of all-new content from past Harry Potter films. (Note that both discs of bonus content will also be included in the concurrently-released 'Years 1-5' standard-def DVD release.)
All three versions of 'Years 1-5' will come housed in collectible packaging, including five unique metal bookmarks for each "book" in the set, and four packages of Harry Potter Trading Cards.
Warner has set an MSRP of $149.99 for the Blu-ray and HD DVD versions of the 'Harry Potter Years 1-5 Gift Set.
As of this writing, Warner has not yet announced plans to make each of the first four 'Potter' films available for purchase on Blu-ray and HD DVD as stand-alone releases outside of the box set. Needless to say, we'll keep you posted.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Disc_Announcements/New_Details_Emerge_for_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD_editions_of_Harry_Potter_Years_1-5_Gift_Set/975)
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(http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/2678/bdvshdytdaug5gr6re1.th.png) (http://img205.imageshack.us/my.php?image=bdvshdytdaug5gr6re1.png)
Hmmm...bakit yung HD DVD only #1-6 sold more than 20,000 units if there are more than 100K stand alone players?!?
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DreamWorks Sets Date for 'Shrek the Third' HD DVD
DreamWorks Home Entertainment is bringing home the biggest animated hit of the year to HD DVD with a just-announced November debut for 'Shrek the Third.'
Grossing over $300 million at the domestic box office, 'Shrek the Third' will hit HD DVD November 13 day-and-date with the standard-def DVD version, in a feature-packed next-gen edition brimming with exclusive content.
Supplements mirroring the DVD version include nearly a dozen featurettes, lost scenes, a DreamWorks Video Jukebox and theatrical trailers.
Exclusive to the HD DVD are "The Animator's Corner" picture-in-picture commentary featuring storyboards, deleted scene pitches and technical goofs, "My Menu" customizable character menu skins, and web-enabled features to be made available after street date, including a "Shrek's Trivia Track," "Donkey's Digital Coloring Book" and more.
Tech specs may disappoint, however, as DreamWorks has opted to not support high-resolution audio with 'Shrek the Third,' with the disc including a Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 surround track (1.5mbps) only.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/DreamWorks/Disc_Announcements/DreamWorks_Sets_Date_for_Shrek_the_Third_HD_DVD/978)
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Paramount Re-Announces 'Zodiac' for HD DVD
After postponing its originally-scheduled July high-def release, Paramount Home Entertainment has announced a newly-configured 2-disc edition of 'Zodiac' as its first HD DVD title of the new year.
David Fincher's acclaimed serial killer procedural was first announced for a bare bones July Blu-ray and HD DVD debut, timed to hit stores day-and-date with the flick's standard-def DVD release.
However, after Fincher announced his intentions to produce a much more extensive, two-disc "double dip" of the title on DVD, Paramount cancelled the high-def versions, with plans to re-announce a more elaborate, comparable special editions at a later date.
Now, following Paramount's high-profile defection to HD DVD only this past August, the studio has finally re-set 'Zodiac' for a January 8 release, in what's being billed as "Two-Disc Special Edition."
Tech specs and supplements have not yet been revealed, but preliminary details for the standard DVD version include multiple audio commentaries with Fincher and other cast and crew, multiple featurettes and additional material on real-life police procedural techniques, so expectations are for a comparable set of extras.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Paramount/Disc_Announcements/Paramount_Re-Announces_Zodiac_for_HD_DVD/979)
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(http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/2678/bdvshdytdaug5gr6re1.th.png) (http://img205.imageshack.us/my.php?image=bdvshdytdaug5gr6re1.png)
Bakit kaya outsold ang total players ng HD DVD sa Blu-ray 1:5, pero yung lamang ng Blu-ray sa discs sold eh 2:1 lang? ??? ;D ;D
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Bakit kaya outsold ang total players ng HD DVD sa Blu-ray 1:5, pero yung lamang ng Blu-ray sa discs sold eh 2:1 lang? ??? ;D ;D
Exacto mundo
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Looks to me like BD sales is dropping....no longer in the 2:1 ratio na :P
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New Details Emerge for Blu-ray, HD DVD editions of 'Harry Potter Years 1-5' Gift Set
(http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3604/original.jpeg)
Warner Home Video has revealed new details for the Blu-ray and HD DVD releases of 'Harry Potter Years 1-5,' including first word of several extras exclusive to the new limited edition gift set.
As we've previously reported, earlier this month Warner announced that it would release the five-movie box set alongside 'Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix' in a cross-format bow on December 11. But while specs for 'Order of the Phoenix' were included in that original release, details for the box set have been sketchy until now.
According a new press release from the studio, both the HD DVD and Blu-ray versions of 'Years 1-5' will span seven discs -- five HD-30s on the HD DVD, and five BD-50s for the Blu-ray for each of the films, plus two additional standard-def discs with exclusive bonus content.
Each movie disc will replicate the same bonus materials as found on their respective two-disc standard-def DVD counterparts, including audio commentaries, multiple featurettes, deleted scenes and more. (Tech specs remain TBA, but we'll keep you posted.)
The two discs of bonus content will be a mix of interactive games, and never-before-seen 'Potter' content. The first disc, entitled "Hogwarts Challenge," will include what Warner describes as a "unique interactive gaming experience with 14 adventure games based on the first three Harry Potter films, and containing clips from the fourth and fifth films." The second disc, "Bonus Materials," will feature more than three hours of all-new content from past Harry Potter films. (Note that both discs of bonus content will also be included in the concurrently-released 'Years 1-5' standard-def DVD release.)
All three versions of 'Years 1-5' will come housed in collectible packaging, including five unique metal bookmarks for each "book" in the set, and four packages of Harry Potter Trading Cards.
Warner has set an MSRP of $149.99 for the Blu-ray and HD DVD versions of the 'Harry Potter Years 1-5 Gift Set.
As of this writing, Warner has not yet announced plans to make each of the first four 'Potter' films available for purchase on Blu-ray and HD DVD as stand-alone releases outside of the box set. Needless to say, we'll keep you posted.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Disc_Announcements/New_Details_Emerge_for_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD_editions_of_Harry_Potter_Years_1-5_Gift_Set/975)
Its up for preorder na at amazon for 104 dollars. I ended up ordering the blu-ray edition for the following reason
1. bd50 vs 30 even they say everything is identical, for the value of money I chose the bd50
2. I dont know if this is combo disc (but I think its not, oh well) for hddvd. So to play it safe went bd, I hate combos
3. Ps3 is 1080p capable, in case I have future upgrade on tv 1080p na.
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Debbie Loves Dallas Released for Blu-ray
Vivid Entertainment has announced that the alt-adult feature 'Debbie Loves Dallas' (not to be confused with 'Debbie Does Dallas') is in stores today. More significant to the story is the fact that Vivid is releasing this title on Blu-ray and DVD with no release planned for HD DVD. This is a change in Vivid's policy which was originally format neutral. :P :P :P
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=519
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How many will actually buy Debbie Loves Dallas porn?? ::)
It's not like a box office office movie so it's insignificant :P
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Toshiba Adds 1080p24 to XA2, A20 HD DVD Players; Initial Results Buggy
Toshiba issued a new firmware upgrade to enable 1080p24 output for its HD-XA2 and HD-A20 players late last week, but our testing of the new software has revealed some bugs.
The latest in a series of upgrades offered by Toshiba for its complete line of HD DVD players, the documentation for firmware version 2.5 promises several enhancements, including improved network connectivity for downloading web-enabled content on certain HD DVD discs and a fix for "certain disc playback and HDMI/DVI related issues identified by Toshiba."
Likely of most interest to early adopters, the new firmware also enables the output of raw 1080p24 video over HDMI from the HD-XA2 and HD-A20 player models. Several Blu-ray players already offer 1080p24 output, but until this point the feature has never been available from an HD DVD player.
We asked our own Joshua Zyber to take the new upgrade for a test drive on his Toshiba HD-XA2, and as he reports in a just-posted update to his XA2 review, he had mixed results.
According to Josh, the fix for "disc playback issues" as referenced by Toshiba greatly improved his machine's playback of 'The Matrix Reloaded' disc from the 'Ultimate Matrix Collection' box set, which previously had trouble loading in his HD-XA2 player.
Unfortunately, Josh's initial testing of the 1080p24 output setting proved less successful. Although he says that 1080p24 output reduced the slight picture judder associated with the 3:2 pulldown process as normally seen on North American televisions (as well as a previously reported video stutter issue), in his testing the setting also had a negative side effect of throwing audio sync off on most of the discs played. He goes on to say that the problem was so distracting that he found himself forced to return the player to 1080i output.
Some members of AVSForum have also reported playback anomalies involving dropped video frames on some discs.
There's no word yet on how widespread these issues may (or may not) be, but we'll certainly let you know of any developments as they emerge.
source (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Firmware_Upgrades/Toshiba/Hardware/Toshiba_Adds_1080p24_to_XA2,_A20_HD_DVD_Players_Initial_Results_Buggy/984)
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Microsoft Announces Use of HDi Logo by Toshiba and Major Hollywood Studios
REDMOND, Wash., Sept. 20 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Microsoft Corp. today announced that its trademarked HDi(TM) logo will soon appear on all Toshiba HD DVD players. In addition, Universal Studios Home Entertainment and Paramount Home Entertainment will include the HDi logo on packaging for HD DVD movie titles beginning in the fourth quarter of this year.
HDi technology is Microsoft's high-performance implementation of the interactivity layer for the HD DVD format, which has taken the movie-viewing experience to an entirely new level with such advanced features as network connectivity and community scenarios. HDi is also a trademark of Microsoft, as recognized by the United States Patent and Trademark Office in its July 2007 notice of allowance for trademark.
Full article (http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/09-20-2007/0004666654&EDATE=)
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i think i will buy ;D
asi aredi have debbie does dallas again in bluray
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Bakit kaya outsold ang total players ng HD DVD sa Blu-ray 1:5, pero yung lamang ng Blu-ray sa discs sold eh 2:1 lang? ??? ;D ;D
Kase yung mga Hapon ang hilig pa ring maglaro ng PS2 at manood ng DVD using BD player.
Tsaka kase dahil kay Batman, kay Neo, kay Ethan, kay Jason tsaka kay Hiro...sasama na rin si Megan Fox.
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(http://images.dvdempire.com/gen/movies/1368304h.jpg)
November 6th
(http://images.dvdempire.com/gen/movies/1368302h.jpg)
November 6th
(http://images.dvdempire.com/gen/movies/1368305h.jpg)
November 20th
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(http://img206.imageshack.us/img206/2710/nj1eq4iu5.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
Note: The stickers tell a story on their own...
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Too small, can't read the stickers...so what's the story & what's the big news?? ::)
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(http://img528.imageshack.us/img528/6394/nj1eq411bl9.jpg)
(http://img146.imageshack.us/img146/3341/nj1eq422vl7.jpg)
Bandwidth was an issue.
Here is some info regarding the disc space usage.
HD-DVD is at 13.1 Gb and was authored in HDi code (Advanced Content Authoring).
BD is currently at 20.2 Gb and is authored in BD-J code
We were limited by the bandwidth of HD-DVD....there was no room to push the encode AND have DTS-HD Master Audio. I would need to "dumb down" so to speak the video encode to make it fit within the allocated bandwidth. I felt that PQ was more important to most people, so I went for best PQ with outstanding audio.
For most people, it is easier to see differences in PQ than it is to hear differences in Audio...unless they have properly tuned systems in a proper listening room along with trained audiophile ears...the average person will be hard pressed to hear and big difference between DTS-HD at 3Mbps and Dolby TrueHD.
R&B Films, Ltd.
Producers Guild of America, New Media Council
(HD-DVD / BD Industry Insider)
You can never please these AVS Forum folks....but we keep trying....
Also, I am taking a poll to see who complains more....owners / supporters of HD-DVD or owners / supporters of BD. I already know who has the lead, but I will let you know the final results..
Originally Posted by BIG ED
OP,
Thanks for supporting HD DVD. And good luck after opening this can of worms.
__________________
Richard J. Casey
---------------------
R&B Films, Ltd.
Producers Guild of America, New Media Council
(HD-DVD / BD Industry Insider)
www.rbfilms.com
:D :D :D
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Both DTS-HD MA & Dolby TrueHD are lossless.
As you're aware the lossless sound format have a 1:1 bit mapping of the original masters. In other words, bit-for-bit identical to the studio master. They don't suffer any compression as opposed to the lossy formats.
Since HD DVD supports both DTS-HD MA & TrueHD up to 18 Mbps bit rate & full-range channels of 24-bit/96 kHz audio so I don't see it as a major concern. I'm fine naman with TrueHD. :)
As mentioned, for most consumers PQ is the priority since to able to enjoy the DTS-HD you will need a player with built-in decorder & a HDMI capable receiver. However, once the 51GB HD DVD is approved in future, the table will be turned? ;D
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Our latest Digital Reference Series release, Nature's Journey, will be released on October 9, 2007.
We worked very hard to make this disc reference quality. I think fans of quality High Definition Video playback and High Resolution Audio will truly appreciate this release.
We thank you for your continued support. We could not do this without you folks...
Best regards,
Richard J. Casey
R&B Films
--------------------------
Producer's Guild of America
New Media Council
__________________________________________________ ________________________________________
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
(HD-DVD VERSION)
Interactive Menus
- Main Menu (seamless & uninterrupted content/menu interactivity)
- Environmental/Season Loops Menu
- Chapter Selections Menu
- Extras Menu (Supplemental material)
- Audio Setup Menu
Extras (Supplemental Material)
- Illuminated Manuscripts Trailer
- Ritual Path Trailer
- Production Credits
Feature Video
- Total Runtime: Approximately 67
Video Encode
- VC-1 Encode at 26 Mbps / 1080i @ 29.97
Feature Audio
- DTS-HD High Resolution 5.0 ~ 96/24 @ 3 Mbps
- Dolby Digital 5.0 ~ 48/24 @ 448 kbps
- Dolby Surround 2.0 (Pro Logic II) ~ 48/16 @ 192 kbps
__________________________________________________ ________________________________________
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
(BLU-RAY DISC VERSION)
Interactive Menus
- Main Menu (seamless & uninterrupted content/menu interactivity)
- Environmental/Season Loops Menu
- Chapter Selections Menu
- Extras Menu (Supplemental material)
- Audio Setup Menu
Extras (Supplemental Material)
- Illuminated Manuscripts Trailer
- Ritual Path Trailer
- Production Credits
Feature Video
- Total Runtime: Approximately 67
Video Encode
- VC-1 Encode at 37 Mbps / 1080i @ 29.97
Feature Audio
- DTS-HD Master Audio (Lossless) 5.0 ~ 96/24 @ 5.3 Mbps Average and 6.8 Mbps Max
- Dolby Digital 5.0 ~ 48/24 @ 448 kbps
- Dolby Surround 2.0 (Pro Logic II) ~ 48/16 @ 192 kbps
__________________________________________________ ________________________________________
Also, for those that care and have the time, there are numerous posts regarding this title in the HD-DVD ... um, I mean Microsoft ... doh ! ... I mean AVS Forum.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=912179&highlight=Nature%27s+Journey (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=912179&highlight=Nature%27s+Journey)
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=868186&highlight=Nature%27s+Journey (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=868186&highlight=Nature%27s+Journey)
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=908149&highlight=Nature%27s+Journey (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=908149&highlight=Nature%27s+Journey)
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=889998&highlight=Nature%27s+Journey (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=889998&highlight=Nature%27s+Journey)
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=868185&highlight=Nature%27s+Journey (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=868185&highlight=Nature%27s+Journey)
[http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=906063&highlight=Nature%27s+Journey (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=906063&highlight=Nature%27s+Journey)
:D :D :D
http://forum.blu-ray.com/showpost.php?p=236091&postcount=1
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Yeah, the BD Version has the bandwidth for higher bit rate encode and DTS-HD-MA Lossless Audio.
As for the video, I'm sure both formats will look outstanding (esp for the lucky ones that own HD display 1080p size 50" & above). Tho the BD disc has higer bitrate encode, I don't think under normal viewing distances you can really discern the difference not unless you have an over 100" screen?
As for the audio, you will need the RIGHT equipments (players that can decode DTS-HD, HDMI capable receiver, good speakers, etc) to do the job in order to hear the difference. At this point of time very few folks have it. Even with the right equipments, not everone has the golden "audiophile ears" ;D
Nevertheless, it will be interesting to see the comparisons & reactions from both camps. :)
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can u give reviews of nature journey? is it really worth buying? thanks
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Yeah, the BD Version has the bandwidth for higher bit rate encode and DTS-HD-MA Lossless Audio.
As for the video, I'm sure both formats will look outstanding (esp for the lucky ones that own HD display 1080p size 50" & above). Tho the BD disc has higer bitrate encode, I don't think under normal viewing distances you can really discern the difference not unless you have an over 100" screen?
As for the audio, you will need the RIGHT equipments (players that can decode DTS-HD, HDMI capable receiver, good speakers, etc) to do the job in order to hear the difference. At this point of time very few folks have it. Even with the right equipments, not everone has the golden "audiophile ears" ;D
Nevertheless, it will be interesting to see the comparisons & reactions from both camps. :)
I totally agree. Most people cant even tell the difference in audio, even the guy that mixes film audios in AVS says this, and this guy is a pro. If there is a difference it is so small that only a pro can see/hear the difference (maybe). I can understand if the difference is like a jump from standard dvd to hidef (both pq and aq), at these higher bit rates of 11mbps or higher etc etc..Then the higher bit rate and 50 gig really counts big time.
I think its more of "I spend this much on this bd player, discs at 50 gig, higher bit rates, excellent equip etc etc. There is/should be a BIG difference." Im not saying there isnt coz ive never seen or hear it. but when you ask a regular guy and look into the test screen (comparing hddvd and BD), maybe the guy doing the comparison will say "Ya the right one is a tad sharper, I can see that guy having a pimple in his right cheek (the other one doesnt), I also see a CB antenna near the building on the right. I can see the horse crap on the valley near the rock on the last scene..Ya noh, I hear the added bullet flying thru the rear speakers from right to left. I also hear that actor saying, "Hey wanna go out later tonight after the set" After asking the guy doing the demo, "what player/disc is that on the right, which I think is better and a tad sharper" The guy said "You know what its HDDVD" :D
To me most people don't even have these hi-end setups/big screens etc. etc., so to me the added bit rate, lossless, 50 gig wont make such a big difference on BD vs. Hddvd. Most important thing here is market acceptance, like what happened to dvd for this thing to take off and succeed
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'Mr. Bean's Holiday' Bumbles to HD DVD This Thanksgiving
Universal is bringing England's king of pratfalls to HD DVD this November with the release of the summer sleeper 'Mr. Bean's Holiday.'
The second in Rowan Atkinson's big-screen slapstick franchise, 'Mr. Bean's Holiday' emerged as an underdog hit at the worldwide box office, grossing over $220 million. Sure to find an even more appreciative American audience on video, Universal Studios Home Entertainment will debut the film as a HD DVD/DVD combo, day-and-date with the standard-def DVD version just in time for the holidays on November 27.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Disc_Announcements/Mr._Beans_Holiday_Bumbles_to_HD_DVD_This_Thanksgiving/1001)
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'Legend of Zorro' to Hit Blu-ray This December
(http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3744/original.jpeg)
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has told retailers to expect a December Blu-ray arrival for the swashbuckling sequel 'The Legend of Zorro.'
The $50 million-grossing follow-up to 'The Mask of Zorro' is currently set to debut December 11, although somewhat surprisingly, at press time the studio had no plans for a companion high-def release of 'Mask.'
Tech specs include Sony's standard 1080p video and uncompressed PCM 5.1 surround audio.
Supplemental details are TBA, but an official press release with full specs is expected sometime in the next couple of weeks.
MSRP has been set at $28.95.
Source (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Disc_Announcements/Sony/Legend_of_Zorro_to_Hit_Blu-ray_This_December/999)
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RUSH HOUR 3 Specs
(http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r92/redstorm_photos/rushhour3res.jpg) (http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r92/redstorm_photos/rushhour3res2.jpg)
The specs are in for the Blu-ray version of 'Rush Hour 3,' announced last week for release on December 26 with an SRP of $39.98. The HD DVD version, with identical specs, will arrive sometime early next year.
'Rush Hour 3' will be presented in widescreen 2.35:1 1080p video and offer Dolby Digital 5.1 EX and 6.1 DTS-ES audio options. Unless a last-minute change is made, do not expect to find lossless audio on this release.
Extras exclusive to the high-def formats will include an enhanced visual commentary and interactive menus. The HD DVD version will include an "Internet Connectivity Experience" that will not appear on the Blu-ray version.
Additional extras will be identical to those found on the two-disc standard DVD edition and include a feature-length audio commentary from director Brett Ratner, deleted scenes with audio commentary from director Brett Ratner, Le Rush Hour Trois Production Diary featurette, gag reel, and theatrical trailer.
New Line has issued a pair of covers as they did with their first high-def title 'Hairspray,' so we're guessing there may be a lenticular slip-cover involved here as well. This assumption is pure speculation; we have no official confirmation at this time.
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Home Theater Group Backs Blu-ray
(http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3764/original.jpeg)
The Home Theater Specialists of America (HTSA) formally announced Monday that it would make Blu-ray its exclusive format choice for high-def disc players.
The $500 million buying group for A/V specialty dealers and installers is comprised of 63 home theater retailers, each boasting at least $5 million in annual sales.
Industry trade magazine TWICE reports that HTSA made the decision after an an internal study revealed that 92 percent disc player sales by HTSA members were in Blu-ray players, with the balance comprised mostly of dual-format players.
The group said it expected its Blu-ray support to "strengthen retailer commitment to providing more BD-based devices to meet growing consumer demand."
In a statement, Jay Vandenbree, president of consumer sales for Sony Electronics hailed the group's decision, saying "at a time when ever-changing technology tests just how much one can know about everything, HTSA has chosen Blu-Ray Disc as the format they support. I think it speaks volumes when support comes from those who specialize in home theater, and are closest to the consumer."
Source (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Industry_Trends/Home_Theater_Group_Backs_Blu-ray/1004)
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'Pathfinder' BD Specs
Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment has confirmed November 20 as the release date for 'Pathfinder (Unrated)' on Blu-ray Disc, as well as release the final disc specs and cover art.
'Pathfinder (Unrated)' will be presented on a BD-50 disc in widescreen 1080p video via an MPEG-2 encode, with DTS-HD Master Lossless audio.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray version is The Path Revealed: Secrets On-Screen Trivia Track. Additional extras were previously available on the standard DVD and include the following:
Commentary by Director Marcus Nispel
7 Deleted Scenes (with optional Director's Commentary)
The Beginning featurette
The Design featurette
The Build featurette
The Shoot featurette
The Stunts featurette
Clancy Brown: Cult Hero featurette
'Pathfinder (Unrated)' will carry an SRP of $39.98.
(http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r92/redstorm_photos/pathres.jpg)
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'The Simpsons Movie' Coming to Blu-ray
Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment has announced the $500 million global box office giant 'The Simpsons Movie' will be released December 18 on Blu-ray Disc, day-and-date with the standard DVD debut.
'The Simpsons Movie' will be presented in widescreen 1080p video authored in BD-Java with AVC (MPEG-4 compression), and DTS-HD Master Lossless audio.
While the Blu-ray version will not carry any exclusive supplemental features, it will present them all in 1080p high definition. Those features include:
Commentary by James L. Brooks, Matt Groening, Al Jean, Mike Scully, David Silverman, Dan Castellaneta, and joined by Yeardley Smith
Directors Commentary by David Silverman, Mike B. Anderson, Steven Dean Moore and Rich Moore
6 Deleted scenes
Homer's Monologue On The Tonight Show
The Simpsons Judge American Idol
Homer Introduces American Idol
Let's All Go To The Lobby
Alternate Character Designs by the Directors and Matt Groening
'The Simpsons Movie' will carry an SRP of $39.98
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Warner Plays Catch Up With HD DVD 'Best Of' Bundles
(http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3788/original.jpeg)
In a new announcement that mirrors one made for Blu-ray several weeks back, Warner has confirmed that it will release two new 'Best of HD DVD' bundles this November.
Due November 6th, the two new "Best of HD DVD" sets will be a one-to-one match with Warner's 'Best of Blu-ray, Family' and 'Best of Blu-ray, Action' volumes announced earlier this month, with each volume containing four previously-released high-def hits apiece.
'The Best of HD DVD, Action' set will include: 'Alexander Revisited,' 'Troy: Director's Cut,' 'Blood Diamond' and 'Wyatt Earp.'
"The Best of HD DVD, Family' set will include 'Happy Feet,' 'Scooby-Doo,' 'Tim Burton's Corpse Bride' and 'The Ant Bully.'
Specs and bonus features for the movies included in these bundles will be identical to their standalone HD DVD counterparts, and box art for each individual title will also remain the same.
Each box will carry an MSRP of $84.99, representing a savings of roughly $40 compared to the combined list prices of each title, if bought separately.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Disc_Announcements/Warner_Plays_Catch_Up_With_HD_DVD_Best_Of_Bundles/1008)
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(http://reviews.avsforum.com/data/3/large/Shrek31.jpg)
Nov. 13
Shrek the Third HD DVD Details:
Shrek the Third HD DVD comes will full 1080p video and Dolby Digital Plus 5.1 audio. Supplemental material will be presented in 1080p high definition across the board and include the following:
* The Animators’ Corner (a Picture-in-Picture experience featuring storyboards, deleted scene pitches and technical goofs)
* Shrek's Guide to Parenthood HD
* Meet the Cast
* Lost Scenes HD
* The Fauxly Grail HD
* Hot Lunch HD
* Cyrano De Artie HD
* Doppelgangers HD
* Tech of Shrek HD
* Donkey Dance HD
* Big Green Goofs HD
* My Menu (customizable character menu skins)
* Dreamworks Animation Video Jukebox HD
* Trailers HD: Bee Movie, Kung Fu Panda
* Web Enabled Features: Shrek’s Trivia Track (available on street date), The World of Shrek, Donkey’s Digital * Coloring Book (available TBD)
* Merlin's Magic Crystal Ball HD
* Learn the Donkey Dance HD
* How to Be Green HD
Still no Dolby TrueHD track. >:(
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I just find this worth reading ;D
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Joshua_Zyber/High-Def_FAQ/High-Def_FAQ:_Is_HDMI_1.3_Really_Necessary/853
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Joshua_Zyber/High-Def_FAQ/High-Def_FAQ:_Is_HDMI_1.3_Really_Necessary/853)
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Some noise coming out of blu-ray.com that's causing a lot of feeding frenzy from both HD camps. Pati ako di ko naniniwala sa "rumour" na ito...
http://forum.blu-ray.com/showpost.php?p=241311&postcount=1
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Haha nice rumor/joke. This will make all the BD fanboys very happy indeed but I doubt WB would take such decision so soon. ;D
Very unlikely but in case it turns out to be true...well, on paper it will seem HD DVD fate is sealed. :-\
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i doubt this is gonna happen too but if it does then it's game over for hd dvd. the BDA could afford to lose Paramount but i don't think hd dvd can afford to lose Warner.
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wait and see then, no point speculating either ;D
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Harry Potter Collection in HD DVD and Blu-ray
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3793/original.jpeg)
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3792/original.jpeg)
;D
Dec. 11
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WOW! How much is that? Need to save up quick. ;D
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Both Nov & Dec will be total damage months for us all ;D
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Some noise coming out of blu-ray.com that's causing a lot of feeding frenzy from both HD camps. Pati ako di ko naniniwala sa "rumour" na ito...
Mouldingo, just as we expected it's another BIG joke/rumor in the net.
Guess the poster will eat his own words..probably he might be banned for spreading false news around hehe :P
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Harry Potter Collection in HD DVD and Blu-ray
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3793/original.jpeg)
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3792/original.jpeg)
;D
Dec. 11
Nice!!! ;D ;D ;D
A highdef enthusiast got both............when the cashier scanned them, she got confused ???..... ;D ;D ;D
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Both Nov & Dec will be total damage months for us all ;D
Ya its gonna be expensive. Im not eating already just to save up hehe..
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Guess the poster will eat his own words..probably he might be banned for spreading false news around hehe
Click that link again. He's already banned. :D
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Hehe serve him right for causing a frenzy... ;D
Whoa...the thread has reached 102 pages! :o
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hahahhaa, so in the end its a hoax?
wanna gloat on bluray supporters is it?
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Mouldingo, just as we expected it's another BIG joke/rumor in the net.
Guess the poster will eat his own words..probably he might be banned for spreading false news around hehe :P
Apparently he is now banned at BR.com by the mods there. Why they didn't shut the thread down as soon as the IP address was found to be suspicious (Library in Canada) and let it run to 100+ pages is beyond me. But the number of hits during that period was suprising indeed.
Originally Posted by Lee Stewart
Let me put this as plain and simple as I can. This is a prank . . a hoax. How do I know? Because the person who started it sent me a PM telling me. I promised not to reveal his real screen name.(he opened that account on BD.com for the strick purpose of starting the rumor) We had about a dozen PM's between us discussing what he did and why he did it.
Why me? Because he felt as one of the more ardent HD DVD supporters, I would get a kick out of what he did.
So if you want to continue to discuss this "rumor" go right ahead. But I have given you the truth of the matter.
Now they are blaming AVS for the whole mess :D :D :D
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Sometimes our lives get more interesting with these goons spreading rumors around. LOL :D
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Ya its gonna be expensive. Im not eating already just to save up hehe..
Here's the rundown on the Oct.-Dec. 2007 releases.
All prices are Amazon prices;
Fantastic Four: The Rise of the Silver Surfer (Blu-ray) = $28 (Oct. 2)
Top Gun (HD DVD) = $20 (Oct. 2)
The Day After Tomorrow (Blu-ray) = $28 (Oct. 2)
Evan Almighty (HD DVD) = $28 (Oct. 9)
Surf's Up [Blu-ray] = $28 (Oct. 9)
RoboCop (Blu-ray) = $28 (Oct. 9)
Transformers (HD DVD) = $28 (Oct. 16)
Meet the Robinsons (Blu-ray) = $24 (Oct. 23)
The Jack Ryan Collection (HD DVD) = $70 (Oct. 23)
Face/Off (HD DVD) = $20 (Oct. 30)
Spider-Man: The High-Definition Trilogy (Blu-ray) = $65 (Oct. 30)
The Aviator (HD DVD) = $24 (Nov. 6)
I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry (HD DVD) = $28 (Nov. 6)
Cars (Blu-ray) = $28 (Nov. 6)
Ratatouille (Blu-ray) = $28 (Nov. 6)
The Pixar Short Films Collection: Volume 1 (Blu-ray) = $24 (Nov. 6)
Close Encounters of the Third Kind (Blu-ray) = $35 (Nov 13)
I, Robot (Blu-ray) = $27 (Nov. 13)
Ocean's Giftset (Blu-ray) = $56 (Nov. 13)
Shrek the Third (HD DVD) = $28 (Nov. 13)
The Die Hard Collection (Blu-ray) = $91 (Nov. 20)
Star Trek: The Original Series -The Complete First Season (HD DVD) = $129 (Nov. 20)
Hairspray (2007) (Blu-ray) = $28 (Nov. 20)
Pathfinder (Blu-ray) = $28 (Nov. 20)
Mr. Bean's Holiday (HD DVD) = $28 (Nov. 27)
Battlestar Galactica: Season One (HD DVD) = $70 (Dec. 4)
Cast Away (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 4)
Independence Day (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 4)
Mr. & Mrs. Smith (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 4)
Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 4)
Ronin (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 4)
Superbad (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 4)
The Jason Bourne Collection (HD DVD) = $70 (Dec. 11)
Harry Potter Years 1-5 Limited Edition Gift Set [HD DVD] = $105 (Dec. 11)
High School Musical 2 (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 11)
The Legend of Zorro (Blu-ray) = $20 (Dec. 11)
Lost - The Complete Third Season [Blu-ray] = $68 (Dec. 11)
Blade Runner (Five-Disc Ultimate Collector's Edition) [HD DVD] = $70 (Dec. 18)
The Simpsons Movie (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 18)
Rush Hour 3 (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 26)
TOTAL DAMAGE = $1705 :o >:( :o
*This is just my list of what I plan to buy pending the "CFO's" budget allocation. :-[ ;)
I'm sure everyone has their own list as well.
Oh well, I guess I need a part time job this holiday season... ;D
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Here's the rundown on the Oct.-Dec. 2007 releases.
All prices are Amazon prices;
Fantastic Four: The Rise of the Silver Surfer (Blu-ray) = $28 (Oct. 2)
Top Gun (HD DVD) = $20 (Oct. 2)
The Day After Tomorrow (Blu-ray) = $28 (Oct. 2)
Evan Almighty (HD DVD) = $28 (Oct. 9)
Surf's Up [Blu-ray] = $28 (Oct. 9)
RoboCop (Blu-ray) = $28 (Oct. 9)
Transformers (HD DVD) = $28 (Oct. 16)
Meet the Robinsons (Blu-ray) = $24 (Oct. 23)
The Jack Ryan Collection (HD DVD) = $70 (Oct. 23)
Face/Off (HD DVD) = $20 (Oct. 30)
Spider-Man: The High-Definition Trilogy (Blu-ray) = $65 (Oct. 30)
The Aviator (HD DVD) = $24 (Nov. 6)
I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry (HD DVD) = $28 (Nov. 6)
Cars (Blu-ray) = $28 (Nov. 6)
Ratatouille (Blu-ray) = $28 (Nov. 6)
The Pixar Short Films Collection: Volume 1 (Blu-ray) = $24 (Nov. 6)
Close Encounters of the Third Kind (Blu-ray) = $35 (Nov 13)
I, Robot (Blu-ray) = $27 (Nov. 13)
Ocean's Giftset (Blu-ray) = $56 (Nov. 13)
Shrek the Third (HD DVD) = $28 (Nov. 13)
The Die Hard Collection (Blu-ray) = $91 (Nov. 20)
Star Trek: The Original Series -The Complete First Season (HD DVD) = $129 (Nov. 20)
Hairspray (2007) (Blu-ray) = $28 (Nov. 20)
Pathfinder (Blu-ray) = $28 (Nov. 20)
Mr. Bean's Holiday (HD DVD) = $28 (Nov. 27)
Battlestar Galactica: Season One (HD DVD) = $70 (Dec. 4)
Cast Away (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 4)
Independence Day (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 4)
Mr. & Mrs. Smith (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 4)
Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 4)
Ronin (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 4)
Superbad (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 4)
The Jason Bourne Collection (HD DVD) = $70 (Dec. 11)
Harry Potter Years 1-5 Limited Edition Gift Set [HD DVD] = $105 (Dec. 11)
High School Musical 2 (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 11)
The Legend of Zorro (Blu-ray) = $20 (Dec. 11)
Lost - The Complete Third Season [Blu-ray] = $68 (Dec. 11)
Blade Runner (Five-Disc Ultimate Collector's Edition) [HD DVD] = $70 (Dec. 18)
The Simpsons Movie (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 18)
Rush Hour 3 (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 26)
TOTAL DAMAGE = $1705 :o >:( :o
*This is just my list of what I plan to buy pending the "CFO's" budget allocation. :-[ ;)
I'm sure everyone has their own list as well.
Oh well, I guess I need a part time job this holiday season... ;D
Wow thats a huge list, I also dreaming to purchase 80 to 90 percent of those titles hehe....We have to take advantage till the end of the year for the additional 10% discount. I wonder if this will be extended pa till next year. I find close encounters so overpriced at 35 bucks.
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Here's the rundown on the Oct.-Dec. 2007 releases.
All prices are Amazon prices;
Fantastic Four: The Rise of the Silver Surfer (Blu-ray) = $28 (Oct. 2)
Top Gun (HD DVD) = $20 (Oct. 2)
The Day After Tomorrow (Blu-ray) = $28 (Oct. 2)
Evan Almighty (HD DVD) = $28 (Oct. 9)
Surf's Up [Blu-ray] = $28 (Oct. 9)
RoboCop (Blu-ray) = $28 (Oct. 9)
Transformers (HD DVD) = $28 (Oct. 16)
Meet the Robinsons (Blu-ray) = $24 (Oct. 23)
The Jack Ryan Collection (HD DVD) = $70 (Oct. 23)
Face/Off (HD DVD) = $20 (Oct. 30)
Spider-Man: The High-Definition Trilogy (Blu-ray) = $65 (Oct. 30)
The Aviator (HD DVD) = $24 (Nov. 6)
I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry (HD DVD) = $28 (Nov. 6)
Cars (Blu-ray) = $28 (Nov. 6)
Ratatouille (Blu-ray) = $28 (Nov. 6)
The Pixar Short Films Collection: Volume 1 (Blu-ray) = $24 (Nov. 6)
Close Encounters of the Third Kind (Blu-ray) = $35 (Nov 13)
I, Robot (Blu-ray) = $27 (Nov. 13)
Ocean's Giftset (Blu-ray) = $56 (Nov. 13)
Shrek the Third (HD DVD) = $28 (Nov. 13)
The Die Hard Collection (Blu-ray) = $91 (Nov. 20)
Star Trek: The Original Series -The Complete First Season (HD DVD) = $129 (Nov. 20)
Hairspray (2007) (Blu-ray) = $28 (Nov. 20)
Pathfinder (Blu-ray) = $28 (Nov. 20)
Mr. Bean's Holiday (HD DVD) = $28 (Nov. 27)
Battlestar Galactica: Season One (HD DVD) = $70 (Dec. 4)
Cast Away (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 4)
Independence Day (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 4)
Mr. & Mrs. Smith (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 4)
Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 4)
Ronin (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 4)
Superbad (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 4)
The Jason Bourne Collection (HD DVD) = $70 (Dec. 11)
Harry Potter Years 1-5 Limited Edition Gift Set [HD DVD] = $105 (Dec. 11)
High School Musical 2 (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 11)
The Legend of Zorro (Blu-ray) = $20 (Dec. 11)
Lost - The Complete Third Season [Blu-ray] = $68 (Dec. 11)
Blade Runner (Five-Disc Ultimate Collector's Edition) [HD DVD] = $70 (Dec. 18)
The Simpsons Movie (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 18)
Rush Hour 3 (Blu-ray) = $28 (Dec. 26)
TOTAL DAMAGE = $1705 :o >:( :o
*This is just my list of what I plan to buy pending the "CFO's" budget allocation. :-[ ;)
I'm sure everyone has their own list as well.
Oh well, I guess I need a part time job this holiday season... ;D
Presyo yan ng magandang AV reciever :o :o :o
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Phew..my goodness. It's a good thing I haven't got my BD player yet or else I will be forced o join you guys in the "Diet Club" but I can sense it's imminent... ;D
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Update for Shrek 3:
New 'Shrek' Specs Promise Several HD DVD Firsts
Final specs are in for the highly-anticipated HD DVD debut of 'Shrek the Third,' including word of a first-ever branching PIP commentary and the most comprehensive web-enabled content yet.
Although DreamWorks Animation already announced most of the specs for the 'Shrek the Third' HD DVD earlier this month, now they've issued an even more comprehensive rundown of the disc's contents.
Expanding upon the picture-in-picture video commentary feature found on other HD DVDs, the "Animator's Reel" will not only present an entire alternate version of the film in storyboard form, but it will further utilize the format's HDi technology to offer a "contextual seamless branch" to lost scenes and other content.
'Shrek the Third' is also set to push the boundaries in terms of what's been offered as web-enabled content on previous HD DVD releases. DreamWorks says a number of additional exclusive features will be made available for download the day the disc hits stores, including a full-length subtitle trivia track, a movie guide with files on characters and talent in the film, plus an interactive coloring book feature that allows you to digitally paint your favorite scenes.
As previously announced, the disc will also provide users the ability to customize their own menus based on famous 'Shrek' characters. Once customized, the user's menu will become the default menu for the disc, even after it has been ejected from the player.
Additional features identical to the standard DVD edition of the film are set to include audio commentary, multiple making-of featurettes, deleted scenes sand more.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/DreamWorks/Exclusive_HD_Content/New_Shrek_Specs_Promise_Several_HD_DVD_Firsts/1016)
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An interesting commentary by Joshua Zyber
High-Def FAQ: What's the Big Deal About 1080p24?
Full article (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Joshua_Zyber/High-Def_FAQ:_Whats_the_Big_Deal_About_1080p24/1015)
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u guys rob bank for a living? ;D
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Phew..my goodness. It's a good thing I haven't got my BD player yet or else I will be forced o join you guys in the "Diet Club" but I can sense it's imminent... ;D
I only eat bread and water... :D :D :D
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I only eat bread and water... :D :D :D
Observing Ramadan? :)
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with ur guys collection, i would be gladly to fast even over the ramadhan period :D
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New Batch of IMAX Classics Bound For HD DVD
(http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3852/original.jpeg)
Traveling through land, sea and air, Image Entertainment will bring a quartet of nature-themed IMAX films to HD DVD early next year.
The latest in a series of recent announcements from the indie distributor, debuting on January 8 will be the IMAX classics 'The Alps,' 'Coral Reef Adventure,' 'Fighter Pilot: Operation Red Flag' and 'Mystery of the Nile.'
Although Image is a dual-fomat supporting distributor, as of yet, these four titles have been announced for HD DVD only. This continues the company's recent pattern of issuing entirely different slates for each of the two next-gen formats.
Each title will receive remastered 1080p transfers (codec TBA) in a 1.78:1 aspect ratio recomposed for HDTV-friendly dimensions. Audio options include Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 surround tracks on each title, with 'Fighter Pilot' also enjoying a full-blown Dolby TrueHD 5.1 surround mix. At press time, no supplements were planned for any of the titles.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Image_Entertainment/IMAX/Disc_Announcements/New_Batch_of_IMAX_Classics_Bound_For_HD_DVD/1024)
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HD DVD to Include Online Shopping
Washington, D.C. (October 3, 2007) -- Universal Studios announced today that next week's HD DVD release of Evan Almighty will include an online shopping feature. Evan Almighty, a comedy which stars Steve Carell as a modern day Noah, will be the first HD DVD to include an online shopping component.
The disc will include a Web browser that can connect to Universal's online store where viewers can buy products related to the movie such as a rain barrel for $135 and recyclable toilet paper.
HD DVD supporters, led by Microsoft, have said the format's interactive features will distinguish it from rival Blu-ray in the high-def disc war.
Previous HD DVD releases, such as 300, allow viewers to participate in polls and access related information on-screen. Unlike Blu-ray, all HD DVD players have Broadband connections, enabling the interactive features.
Ken Graffeo, executive vice president of Universal Studios, which backs HD DVD exclusively, says the format's backers will now lobby Hollywood to support more ITV features.
The Evan Almighty HD DVD, which will be released on October 9, will retail for $40.
Source (http://www.tvpredictions.com/hddvditv100307.htm)
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Sony to Unleash 'Godzilla' on Blu-ray in 2008
Wed Oct 03, 2007 at 09:30 AM ET
In a very early announcement, Sony has confirmed that the 1998 incarnation of 'Godzilla' will stomp his way to Blu-ray this coming March in a special "Monster Edition" boasting brand-new bonus features.
http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Sony/Disc_Announcements/Sony_to_Unleash_Godzilla_on_Blu-ray_in_2008/1029
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is there any wifi enable hd dvd player out there?
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HD DVD of Transformer to be released 16th of October 2007.
The HD DVD is presented in 1080p High Definition with English, French and Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital Plus and English, English SDH+, French, Spanish and Brazilian Portuguese subtitles. In addition to the above features that will be presented in high definition, the Transformers HD DVD will also offer the following exclusive content:
Disc 1:
Transformers H.U.D. (Heads Up Display) - In this mode, viewers can access running text-based behind-the-scenes background information on the production during the feature. Users can also watch relevant picture-in-picture b-roll and video with Bay, Spielberg and other filmmakers during select sequences.
Transformers Intelligence Mode web-enabled features consist of:
- Transformation Mode
- Health Meter
- Weapon Mode
- Robot Bio
- In Scene Indicator
- Text Ticker
- GPS
Disc 2:
Transformers Tech Inspector - Gives viewers an unprecedented look at the Transformers robots through the exquisitely detailed models created by ILM artists. Users can zoom in on each detail for a closer examination and pause and change the rotation of the models.
http://www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=36920
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Transformers HD DVD
The web-enabled features take advantage of technology that allows the studio to present the content in a new way. These cutting-edge, online features can be updated, providing consumers with an evolving entertainment experience months, or even years, after the disc is physically produced. Initial features include a Transformers Intelligence Mode in which an on-screen dashboard over the film provides information about the robots and weapons, their strength levels, character updates and more. Plus, a GPS Locator that can access a map and GPS coordinates. Paramount's Transformers HD DVD connectivity capabilities will reveal additional HD DVD exclusive features at street date and at various time periods in the future.
Nice!! 8)
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arghhhhhhhh, i really need a hd dvd player ASAP!!!!!!!!
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Well, what are you waiting for bro? Go get one today!! ;D
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guys kano na ba ngayon HD-A20 or A30? where can we buy it here in manila na mura? im still using the HD-DVD addon for the xbox.. :(
wanted to watch transformers in Dolby TrueHD :)
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guys kano na ba ngayon HD-A20 or A30? where can we buy it here in manila na mura? im still using the HD-DVD addon for the xbox.. :(
wanted to watch transformers in Dolby TrueHD :)
Sorry dude, but Transformers HD DVD will only come in 5.1 Dolby Digital Plus not Dolby TrueHD which is still not bad at 1.5Mbps.
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Universal Sets December Date For 'Cat People' HD DVD
(http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3012/original.gif)
After being pulled from Universal's release schedule a few months back, the ferocious felines of 'Cat People' will finally sink their claws into HD DVD this December.
As we've previously reported, Universal first announced a September 25 next-gen release for Paul Schrader's 1982 horror remake, only to issue an indefinite delay in late August.
Now, the studio has set a new December 26 arrival for 'Cat People,' alongside another just-announced cult favorite, 'Timecop.'
Despite the three-month delay, there are no changes to the disc tech specs nor supplemental details. Look for 1080p/VC-1 video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio, plus all the same extras as the 2004 standard-def special edition DVD release.
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Disc_Announcements/Universal_Sets_December_Date_For_Cat_People_HD_DVD/1034)
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bro pchin.... still waiting for the right moment, i buy now, missus confirm killme :o
and im eyeing on the A3 as well.....
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Sorry dude, but Transformers HD DVD will only come in 5.1 Dolby Digital Plus not Dolby TrueHD which is still not bad at 1.5Mbps.
Yup, I've been reading some articles on the net and in some forums saying that above a certain audio bitrate, going higher won't make much difference unless you stress yourself listening that close. And in movies, half your attention is focused on the video, so even with very transparent revealing systems, you would have to nitpick to really notice the difference. Same thing actually happened between CD quality and MLP-based DVD-Audio and even SACD. That's why they never caught on and remain niche. Because majority of the mass-fi systems out there can't reveal quality difference tht is worth spending so much per title. 1.5mbps bitrate is really the threshold and anything higher won't be worth the expense. Even half that is already great which I think DTS uses. But psychologically it pays to know you're listening to lossless codecs. ;D It's really more psychological to a large extent.
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and maybe we can only hear benefits promised by the higher audio bitrate in a cured environment not in an ordinary HT like many of ours where very often we can hear the barking of the neighbors dogs or the passing of the tricycle. ;)
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bro pchin.... still waiting for the right moment, i buy now, missus confirm killme :o and im eyeing on the A3 as well.....
Well in that case, you can secure by at least buying the Transformer HD DVD first... ;D
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New Line Brings 'Pan's Labyrinth' to Blu-ray, HD DVD
In the studio's first dual-format day-and-date high-def release, New Line will bring the Oscar-winning 'Pan's Labyrinth' to Blu-ray and HD DVD this December.
Ever since New Line finally announced it was jumping into high-def with last month's announcement of 'Hairspray,' 'Pan's Labyrinth' has been one of the most highly-anticipated catalog titles for next-gen release in the studio's library. Now the wait is over, and both HD DVD and Blu-ray fans will be able to feast on Guillermo Del Toro's highly-acclaimed, multiple Oscar-winning fairy tale when it streets December 26.
New Line will be pulling out all the stops for 'Labyrinth,' which will come loaded with bonus features. Among the extras is a video prologue and audio commentary by Del Toro, two featurettes, an interactive "Director's Notebook," extensive storyboard and still galleries, an excerpt from the "Charlie Rose Show" with Del Toro, and a Marketing Campaign gallery with trailers and other ad materials.
Exclusive to the high-def versions will be an enhanced picture-in-picture video commentary with cast & crew interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, while the HD DVD will also enjoy web-enabled content (to be announced at a future date).
Tech specs are equally impressive, with 1080p video (codec TBA) and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio track in 7.1 Surround -- so far the studio's first high-def title to be confirmed with high-resolution audio.
Retail for both next-gen editions is $35.99.
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3894/original.jpeg)
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/New_Line/Disc_Annoucements/New_Line_Brings_Pans_Labyrinth_to_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD/1039 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/New_Line/Disc_Annoucements/New_Line_Brings_Pans_Labyrinth_to_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD/1039)
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(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3909/original.pjpeg)
Fox Home Entertainment will bring 'The Simpsons Movie' to Blu-ray on December 18th, jam-packed with extras (all presented in full 1080p video).
Included among the previously-announced goodies are two audio commentaries with multiple cast and crew, three featurettes, deleted scenes, a Homer monologue from the "Tonight Show," and alternate character designs from the show's creator, Matt Groening.
The BD-50 dual-layer release will come with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
http://www.highdefdigest.com/tags/show/Box_Art (http://www.highdefdigest.com/tags/show/Box_Art)
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finally, pans is coming, i nearly bought the import version without knowing it doesnt have english subs :D
bro pchin, im still not tat hardcore lar... will definitely buy transformers with that player
a fren is also getting the A3, so we are holding on maybe till chirstmas and looking for a better seller and price
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sir you have made the right choice. hd dvd rocks! ganda tignan sa plasma. i think wala nang mas lilinaw pa doon.
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finally, pans is coming, i nearly bought the import version without knowing it doesnt have english subs :D
+1
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Spielberg Camp Shuts Down Latest HD DVD Rumors
Although a presentation from Universal Japan late last week appeared to indicate otherwise, Steven Spielberg's longtime spokesman is denying reports that several of the director's classic flicks are headed to HD DVD.
As we first reported last Friday, a slide from a presentation made by Universal Japan at last week's CEATAC conference included mention of 'Jaws,' 'E.T.' and 'Jurassic Park' among other high-profile Universal titles apparently headed to HD DVD.
Given the director's apparent preference for Blu-ray, and his previous denials of any immediate plans for HD DVD release of his titles, the image of Spielberg tiles on a page wrapped by the "Look and Sound of Perfect" graphics common to all of Universal's HD DVD discs was enough to whip fans into a near-frenzy on our own forums and elsewhere online.
Today, however, in a statement to Blu-ray.com, Spielberg spokesperson Marvin Levy put the rumors to bed.
"There are no plans to release these titles on HD DVD," said Levy. "It was a mistake and someone inadvertently put those titles into a presentation."
Levy went on to tell Blu-ray.com that Universal would be making a public statement regarding this mistake in the coming days.
As we've previously reported, back in February of this year, the official HD DVD Promotions Group (of which Universal is a member) issued a public apology to the director after listing several of his titles in a "Coming Soon" list that was apparently never approved by the director.
source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Steven_Spielberg/Spielberg_Camp_Shuts_Down_Latest_HD_DVD_Rumors/1046)
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I knew it to be too good to be true...somehow some HD DVD fanboys never learn.... ;D
Nothing to be excited until it's official or a release date is announced... ;)
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Man screw (sorry for my language) Speilberg. Who does he think he is. There are so many movies out there anyway. His attitude on this SUCKS. I know he just wants money like everybody else. But it is ridiculous "if ever" he is saying hddvd is inferior format and blu-ray is superior. Im telling you guys, so far blu-ray just have the studio advantage, thats about it. With fox and mgm putting out so few titles, cancelling titles etc., I really dont see that big of an advantage. Ya fox titles at 27 bucks for catalog. People will tend to be selective IMO bec of this. 50 gig/bitrate and whatever is still up for debate. There are already some films (like troy DC, that I dont see any advantage on the 50 gig vs. 30) Bitrate, im waiting for reviews on that scenery stuff that came out with higher bitrate for blu-ray. Any reviews saying that blu-ray is superior and way clearer? Whats the verdict??
By the way, I did not/will not order Close encounters bec of him lang. 34 dollars for a bluray. Kiss my b....tt..Whats that the best movie of all time? Ya right..The only speilberg movies I like are Indy series, Back to the future series, Jurassic Park series, Jaws, and Munich. Of course this is just my taste or preference of movies.
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puso mo, Moks... easy ka lang. ;D
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puso mo, Moks... easy ka lang. ;D
hehe...Nakakabuwisit kasi ito mga directors na ito, holding back lahat, choosing choosing pa hehe. Remember Michael Bay, when Paramount announced hddvd exclusivity.., Ayaw na daw sa Paramount diba... Im for consumer's choice/rights and enjoyment kasi, we pay to watch their movies when it hit the theaters and let it gross 200 to 300 million dollars, and they are dictating pa ano format diba hehe ;D. Nakaka pikon ;D To me we have the right to enjoy these home videos ;D
So Lucas labas mo na star wars, kahit 300 dollars yan I will pay for it hehe.. ;D
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Remember Michael Bay, when Paramount announced hddvd exclusivity.., Ayaw na daw sa Paramount diba... Im for consumer's choice/rights and enjoyment kasi, we pay to watch their movies when it hit the theaters and let it gross 200 to 300 million dollars, and they are dictating pa ano format diba hehe ;D. Nakaka pikon ;D To me we have the right to enjoy these home videos ;D
I totally agree with consumer's choice. Maybe Speilberg will release his films on HD-DVD when Universal decides to publish on both formats. I guess that goes for the other Blu studios as well. You want to know who'll win the format war? Let the consumers decide. But alas, Corporate America has the consumer by the b***s. :P I guess the best we can do for now is wait for Samsung to release that multi-format player and make them a lot more money to make better Asian films that Hollywood will copy... but I digress. ;D
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'Stardust' Bound For HD DVD this December
Though it failed to sprinkle much fairy dust on the summer box office, Paramount has announced it will bring the big-budget fantasy 'Stardust' to HD DVD this December.
With a reported production budget of over $70 million and starring such heavy hitters as Michelle Pfeiffer and Robert De Niro, 'Stardust' was one of the most high-profile and eagerly-awaited adventure films of the year. But despite a heavy marketing push from Paramount, the movie received only a tepid from both critics and audiences, eventually scrapping up a total worldwide gross of $64 million.
Fantasy fans will have another chance to decide the fate of 'Stardust,' however, when Paramount debuts the flick day-and-date on both HD DVD and standard-def DVD on December 18.
Tech specs include 1080p video and (continuing Paramount's recent trend of not including high-res audio on their HD DVD releases) Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 Surround tracks in English, French and Spanish.
No supplemental details have been announced as of yet, but we'll keep you posted.
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Paramount/Disc_Announcements/Stardust_Bound_For_HD_DVD_this_December/1049 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Paramount/Disc_Announcements/Stardust_Bound_For_HD_DVD_this_December/1049)
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Lionsgate Declares 'War' on Blu-ray
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3948/original.jpeg)
In the studio's first next-gen title announcement of the new year, Lionsgate will debut the high-octane action-thriller 'War' on Blu-ray this January.
Starring Jet Li as a rogue assassin and Jason Statham as the FBI assigned to track him down, expect lots of flexing muscles and slow-mo body blows when 'War' drops on Blu-ray and standard-def DVD day-and-date on January 1.
Tech specs for the $32 million-grossing slugfest include 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video, and in what is becoming a much-welcome trend on Lionsgate's Blu-ray releases, an uncompressed PCM track in full-blown 7.1 surround.
Supplement details have not yet been announced, but watch this space and we'll keep you posted.
Lionsgate has set a $39.99 MSRP for the Blu-ray version.
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Lionsgate/Disc_Announcements/Lionsgate_Declares_War_on_Blu-ray/1050 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Lionsgate/Disc_Announcements/Lionsgate_Declares_War_on_Blu-ray/1050)
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http://www.thedigitalbits.com/#mytwocents (http://www.thedigitalbits.com/#mytwocents)
First, the HD-DVD Promotions Group has had to apologize once again for mistakenly leaking word that Steven Spielberg films would be coming to the HD-DVD format. At the CEATAC confab in Japan this past weekend, Universal Studios Japan apparently showed a slide (as part of a larger presentation) that indicated that Jaws, E.T., Jurassic Park and Close Encounters of Third Kind would soon be coming to HD-DVD. Apparently not so. The HD-DVD Group quickly issued this statement on behalf of Universal: "Universal has not made any formal announcements regarding Spielberg catalog titles coming to HD DVD at this time." Spielberg has authorized Sony to release Close Encounters of Third Kind exclusively on Blu-ray on 11/13. As you may remember, the HD-DVD camp leaked similar news earlier this year and had to retract it then too.
...the HD-DVD Promotions Group quickly countered with a little damage control, making sure everyone knew that the DVD Forum was close to approving the spec for a triple-layer 51GB HD-DVD disc. However, industry sources are telling us that NONE of the existing Toshiba HD-DVD players and drives are currently capable of reading them. Indeed, the Video Business story indicates that once the spec is finalized, "compatibility with current HD DVD player and recorders can be investigated." According to reports from Bits readers who were on at CEATAC this weekend, Toshiba reps confirmed to attendees that the triple-layer disc configuration would require a hardware change, meaning that the existing drives are not firmware updatable.
So what else is happening on the HD-DVD front? Well... it seems that the format's chief booster at Microsoft, Amir Majidimehr, has apparently moved on to other parts of the company. We don't mention this as any kind of controversy, just an FYI thing. However, regardless of which format you prefer, there's no denying that Amir was a controversial figure among online enthusiasts. He made daily posts on some of the home theater discussion forums to promote HD-DVD developments and debunk Blu-ray developments (sometimes as much or more of the latter as the former). Anyway, we wish him the best in his new endeavors. No, seriously... we do.
Finally, on the Blu-ray front today, a number of retail sources are apparently predicting that Sony will bring its new 40GB PlayStation 3 game system to the States on 11/2 for just $400, possibly bundled with a Blu-ray copy of Spider-Man 3. Additionally, some retailers and industry analysts are expecting more price cuts for other PS3 models as well.
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Lionsgate Declares 'War' on Blu-ray
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3948/original.jpeg)
...what is becoming a much-welcome trend on Lionsgate's Blu-ray releases, an uncompressed PCM track in full-blown 7.1 surround.
Wow...CooL!! 8) Is this the first BD tittle that offers 7.1? :)
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Wow...CooL!! 8) Is this the first BD tittle that offers 7.1? :)
Nope.
Other Titles in BD with 7.1 LPCM;
"Waiting", "Doctor Starnger", "Avengers", "Daddy's Little Girls" , "Delta Farce" , "Van Wilder";D
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Phew a few already pala. :)
When 'Pan's Labyrinth' releases in HD DVD with the DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio track in 7.1 Surround, it will be the first for HD DVD (in the USA) & probably 99% of us won't able to hear it due to our existing HD DVD players & receivers lack of DTS-HD MA decoding... ;D
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The first Transformer HD DVD review :D
http://www.hidefpreview.com/Transformers.html
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Whoa....Spiderman 3 Blu-ray review is out na! :o
http://www.highdefdiscnews.com/?p=275
http://www.tvpredictions.com/whip
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The Spider-Man Trilogy Blu-ray review
http://www.hidefpreview.com/Spiderman%20Trilogy.html
Time to migrate for bluer pasture! ;D
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The Spider-Man Trilogy Blu-ray review
http://www.hidefpreview.com/Spiderman%20Trilogy.html
Time to migrate for bluer pasture! ;D
brod paul, musta na? :) PS3 40gb is coming out soon :) it will be available here on November 11 @ S$559.00, I might get one next month...:) :) :)
http://asia.playstation.com/eng_sg/index.php?q=node/1199 (http://asia.playstation.com/eng_sg/index.php?q=node/1199)
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I'm fine bro Patriot. Glad to hear you will be getting the PS3 next month.
I'm looking into a standalone BD player. :)
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I'm fine bro Patriot. Glad to hear you will be getting the PS3 next month.
I'm looking into a standalone BD player. :)
Going neutral Paul? ;D ;D ;D
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Spiderman has forced me into a corner na Jun...it's futile to resist :-[ ;D
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Spiderman has forced me into a corner na Jun...it's futile to resist :-[ ;D
Mukhang early ang upgrade ko to HD.. Might get the PS3 80 gb na.. Can't wait for next year.. ;D ;D ;D
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Do we have a price watch for the trilogy of spidey already - and when will it hit our local market?
Im starting to fall in love for blu-rays even I don't owe 1 yet. yeah, im lame.. lol.
It makes me want to buy everything in 1 shopping but I couldnt.. :(
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Terminator 3 Coming to Blu-ray (with PIP)
(http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/8815/original1161303yo5.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
Warner Home Video has announced that they are bringing 'Terminator 3' to Blu-ray on December 4th. This title has been on HD DVD for quite some time, but hadn't received the Blu-ray treatment due to the IME (In Movie Experience) feature. With Blu-ray moving to Profile v1.1, Warner will finally bring this title to Blu-ray with the Picture-in-Picture IME feature intact.
The disc will mirror the HD DVD release, which includes 1080p VC-1 video and Dolby Digital audio. In addition to the IME, extras include deleted scenes, commentary, and an introduction by Arnold Schwarzenegger.
source (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=594-)
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Do we have a price watch for the trilogy of spidey already - and when will it hit our local market?
Im starting to fall in love for blu-rays even I don't owe 1 yet. yeah, im lame.. lol.
It makes me want to buy everything in 1 shopping but I couldnt.. :(
Hello, first I have to say im not bragging or anything. Just want to share my experience. I just recently bought a bigger screen, 46 inches and this is the first time i have this kinda screen. Before i have a 32 inch and already can see the difference which is already big..On bigger size screen it really gets more appreciative.. The others have big screens as their minimum size screen hehe. I envy them....I wonder how thos 52 and 65 inches will be like hehe...I have to tell you Hidef, whether bluray or hddvd is completely awesome. It really blew me away on this bigger screen..its so far talaga from dvd. Dvd tends to look worse on bigger screen, more pixelized ata.. Ive watched and compared the following, speed, the mummy, casino royale..It really looks pristine. Sweet talaga. Highly recommended to buy into hidef..Just my opinion..
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Transformers is no longer in pre-order stage...in stock na sya!!! Let the waiting game begin!! ;D ;D
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Hello, first I have to say im not bragging or anything. Just want to share my experience. I just recently bought a bigger screen, 46 inches and this is the first time i have this kinda screen. Before i have a 32 inch and already can see the difference which is already big..On bigger size screen it really gets more appreciative.. The others have big screens as their minimum size screen hehe. I envy them....I wonder how thos 52 and 65 inches will be like hehe...I have to tell you Hidef, whether bluray or hddvd is completely awesome. It really blew me away on this bigger screen..its so far talaga from dvd. Dvd tends to look worse on bigger screen, more pixelized ata.. Ive watched and compared the following, speed, the mummy, casino royale..It really looks pristine. Sweet talaga. Highly recommended to buy into hidef..Just my opinion..
@Moks007:
Congrats on your new 46" full hdtv.. I envy you too man because I am currently on 32" only... rawr!
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@Moks007:
Congrats on your new 46" full hdtv.. I envy you too man because I am currently on 32" only... rawr!
Thanks very much Fait..
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Hello, first I have to say im not bragging or anything. Just want to share my experience. I just recently bought a bigger screen, 46 inches and this is the first time i have this kinda screen. Before i have a 32 inch and already can see the difference which is already big..On bigger size screen it really gets more appreciative.. The others have big screens as their minimum size screen hehe. I envy them....I wonder how thos 52 and 65 inches will be like hehe...I have to tell you Hidef, whether bluray or hddvd is completely awesome. It really blew me away on this bigger screen..its so far talaga from dvd. Dvd tends to look worse on bigger screen, more pixelized ata.. Ive watched and compared the following, speed, the mummy, casino royale..It really looks pristine. Sweet talaga. Highly recommended to buy into hidef..Just my opinion..
Glad to know you're seeing the bigger picture. You will even see bigger difference with screens larger than 50", which are the actual recommended size to watch this beauties. At lalo pa kung native resolution na 1920 x 1080. Blurry DVDs are even more obvious even on upscaled players. Hi def really deserves big screens, but at a price ::) ::) ::)
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Congrat Moks007 for you rnew gear...a true 1080p HD nirvana!! :D
'Jack Ryan' Special Edition HD DVD Not So Special? :(
(http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4010/original.jpeg)
In what may end up being the biggest packaging blunder yet for a high-def title, Paramount's 'Jack Ryan Collection' HD DVD appears to have shipped to retail in a deluxe "Special Collectors Edition" box set that contains none of its advertised bonus features.
First announced earlier this summer, the four-disc 'Jack Ryan Collection' was originally planned for dual-format release on September 25. Although the studio would eventually scrap the Blu-ray version and push back the street date by nearly a month to October 23, the box set remained among the more highly-anticipated titles of the season.
Now, with the set's official street date only a week away, the HD DVD edition of 'The Jack Ryan Collection' has begun shipping to retail, but fans who were initially delighted to snap up early copies of the set began noticing something strange as they dived into the four-disc set.
As first reported yesterday by fans on several forums (including our own), despite the "Special Collector's Edition" label clearly stamped across the front cover of each disc in the set, and a list of bonus features promoted on the box art (including audio commentaries, featurettes, and more), as yet no one has been able to find the advertised supplementary material on any of the actual discs.
We here at High-Def Digest received our own copy of the final product direct from Paramount on Monday, and after combing through each disc, we too were unable to find a single supplemental feature anywhere on the entire set.
At press time, Paramount had not yet responded to a request for a comment on the apparent packaging snafu, but we'll keep you posted as soon as any official information comes in on the matter. Stay tuned...
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Paramount/Technical_Glitches/Jack_Ryan_Special_Edition_HD_DVD_Not_So_Special_/1070)
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'Jack Ryan' Special Edition HD DVD Not So Special? :(
(http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4010/original.jpeg)
RIP-OFF
Yung Top Gun suffered from the same faith...no extras...Expect the same thing with Face/Off and other old title reissue... >:( >:( >:(
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It's a BIG blunder! Good thing I didn't pre-order Jack Ryan. :-\
Geez...if Face Off is suffering from the same fate then I won't get it. >:(
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Glad to know you're seeing the bigger picture. You will even see bigger difference with screens larger than 50", which are the actual recommended size to watch this beauties. At lalo pa kung native resolution na 1920 x 1080. Blurry DVDs are even more obvious even on upscaled players. Hi def really deserves big screens, but at a price ::) ::) ::)
Thanks Mouldingo. Ya screens above 50 are very expensive nga..Cant affort it. hehe...Last night I watched Raiders of the lost ark, ya its ok but not great, Can see all the imperfections talaga..I dont know if its just calibration..
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Congrat Moks007 for you rnew gear...a true 1080p HD nirvana!! :D
'Jack Ryan' Special Edition HD DVD Not So Special? :(
(http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4010/original.jpeg)
In what may end up being the biggest packaging blunder yet for a high-def title, Paramount's 'Jack Ryan Collection' HD DVD appears to have shipped to retail in a deluxe "Special Collectors Edition" box set that contains none of its advertised bonus features.
First announced earlier this summer, the four-disc 'Jack Ryan Collection' was originally planned for dual-format release on September 25. Although the studio would eventually scrap the Blu-ray version and push back the street date by nearly a month to October 23, the box set remained among the more highly-anticipated titles of the season.
Now, with the set's official street date only a week away, the HD DVD edition of 'The Jack Ryan Collection' has begun shipping to retail, but fans who were initially delighted to snap up early copies of the set began noticing something strange as they dived into the four-disc set.
As first reported yesterday by fans on several forums (including our own), despite the "Special Collector's Edition" label clearly stamped across the front cover of each disc in the set, and a list of bonus features promoted on the box art (including audio commentaries, featurettes, and more), as yet no one has been able to find the advertised supplementary material on any of the actual discs.
We here at High-Def Digest received our own copy of the final product direct from Paramount on Monday, and after combing through each disc, we too were unable to find a single supplemental feature anywhere on the entire set.
At press time, Paramount had not yet responded to a request for a comment on the apparent packaging snafu, but we'll keep you posted as soon as any official information comes in on the matter. Stay tuned...
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Paramount/Technical_Glitches/Jack_Ryan_Special_Edition_HD_DVD_Not_So_Special_/1070)
Thanks Paul..UHHH I pre-ordered this, not so good news. The problem is I love this series too much, Im still not sure if I will cancel this
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Thanks Paul..UHHH I pre-ordered this, not so good news. The problem is I love this series too much, Im still not sure if I will cancel this
It's not release yet based on the street date so you may still able to cancell it. Yes, it's a great series & I can understand. If special features aren't that important then you have no fear. :)
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Do we have a price watch for the trilogy of spidey already - and when will it hit our local market?
Im starting to fall in love for blu-rays even I don't owe 1 yet. yeah, im lame.. lol.
It makes me want to buy everything in 1 shopping but I couldnt.. :(
Bought my Spiderman Trilogy this afternoon for PHP 5k
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Bought my Spiderman Trilogy this afternoon for PHP 5k
wow...almost double the $64.95 amazon price.....
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Whoa...rexdc, where did you buy your Spiderman Trilogy from?
It's very pricey. :-\
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Bought my Spiderman Trilogy this afternoon for PHP 5k
Is it blu-ray? If it's not then... 5k?
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@RadicalDude: Spiderman is released by Sony Pictures Home Entertainment so it's Blu-ray exclusive. ;)
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I believe emildjr is selling it for 4,500. Just check out the Marketplace. Am actually thinking about getting the set ;D ;D ;D, it's just PS3/BD Player is not yet in my calender, at least in the next 3 months. ;)
Cheers!!!
Compaq
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Am actually thinking about getting the set ;D ;D ;D, it's just PS3/BD Player is not yet in my calender, at least in the next 3 months. ;)
You can still get the BD disc first tho without a BD player just like I did to the Amazon BD promo "buy 1 FREE 1" ;D
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Oh Paul, please. I've been trying to keep myself away from the "Buy 1 Free 1 promo." If I don't, I might end up having more Blu-Ray discs than HD-DVD ;D ;D ;D, remember I still have to get my HD player this end-of-month. ;)
Cheers!!!
Compaq
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Specs, Cover Art in For 'Shoot 'Em Up' Blu-ray
New Line has issued more details on its upcoming Blu-ray release of 'Shoot 'Em Up,' and once again the studio impresses with top-shelf tech specs.
As we first reported a few days back, New Line is planning a feature-packed next-gen debut for the Clive Owen/Paul Giamatti/Monica Bellucci actioner, which is due to hit Blu-ray day-and-date with the standard-def DVD on January 1, 2008.
Today we can report that in addition to 1080p video (codec TBA), New Line is planning a 7.1 DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio track for the 'Shoot 'Em Up' Blu-ray.
This marks the second such track to be confirmed by the studio, following its dual-format announcement of 'Pan's Labyrinth' a couple of weeks back.
In what's becoming a welcome trend, New Line has also confirmed that 'Shoot 'Em Up' will be its latest next-gen title to include a picture-in-picture video commentary, featuring behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with the cast and crew. (Thus far, the studio has yet to announce a next-gen title that doesn't include a PIP video commentary.)
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4016/original.jpeg)
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/New_Line/Specs,_Cover_Art_in_For_Shoot_Em_Up_Blu-ray/1071 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/New_Line/Specs,_Cover_Art_in_For_Shoot_Em_Up_Blu-ray/1071)
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Paramount Recalls 'Jack Ryan' HD DVD
Following reports of a packaging error, Paramount has issued a recall of its forthcoming HD DVD release of 'The Jack Ryan Collection.'
As we first reported Tuesday, early copies of the highly anticipated release found their way into consumers hands earlier this week, but fans who were initially delighted to snap up a sneak peek began noticing something strange as they dived into the four-disc set.
Despite the "Special Collector's Edition" label clearly stamped across the front cover of each disc in the set, and a list of bonus features promoted on the box art (including audio commentaries, featurettes, and more), no one was able to find the advertised supplementary material on any of the actual discs.
As these reports began to surface, fan reaction was swift and predominantly negative in our forums area, with most wondering how a mistake like this could slip by the studio.
Today, Paramount has issued a street delay for the disc, and is asking all retailers return their stock to the distributor. No new street date has been announced, and at press time it wasn't clear whether the studio is planning to ultimately release the existing barebones discs with new corrected packaging, or with new feature-packed discs. We'll let you know as more information comes in.
The text of Paramount's email to retailers follows below:
Please be advised that there are typographical errors on the packaging for the Jack Ryan Special Collector's Edition HD-DVD. The packaging inadvertently notes special features that are not on the HD-DVD. As a result, this product is being recalled and street date is being delayed.We ask that you do not sell or rent this product to consumers and that you stop shipments to additional destinations. A Paramount Home Entertainment Representative will contact you with an RA number to facilitate sending the product back to Paramount Home Entertainment's manufacturing facility. Returned product should include any unit previously shipped to retailers or other destinations as well as your on-hand inventory. We will provide further information on the availability of new product shortly. Should you have any further questions, please contact a Paramount Home Entertainment Representative. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused you.
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Paramount/Technical_Glitches/Paramount_Recalls_Jack_Ryan_HD_DVD/1084 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Paramount/Technical_Glitches/Paramount_Recalls_Jack_Ryan_HD_DVD/1084)
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'The Rock,' 'Con Air' on Blu-ray Rescheduled for January; 'Crimson Tide' Follows in February
Buena Vista Home Entertainment has finally rescheduled a trio of action flicks originally planned for release on Blu-ray Disc this past June.
'The Rock' and 'Con Air' are now on tap for a simultaneous high definition debut on January 8. 'Crimson Tide,' however, will arrive roughly a month later sometime in February.
(http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r92/redstorm_photos/rock.jpg) (http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r92/redstorm_photos/conair.jpg) (http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r92/redstorm_photos/crimson.jpg)
http://dvd.themanroom.com/dvd-newsview.php?id=756 (http://dvd.themanroom.com/dvd-newsview.php?id=756)
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Phew...more delicious titles are on the way! :o
Dam this format neutral thing...it will kill me by eating too much fast food & noodle! :P
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Paramount Recalls 'Jack Ryan' HD DVD
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Paramount/Technical_Glitches/Paramount_Recalls_Jack_Ryan_HD_DVD/1084 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Paramount/Technical_Glitches/Paramount_Recalls_Jack_Ryan_HD_DVD/1084)
Amazon cancelled it for me... :-\ :-\ :-\
Hello from Amazon.com.
We are sorry to report that we will not be able to obtain the
following item(s) from your order:
Ben Affleck (Actor), Harrison Ford (Actor) "The Jack Ryan
Collection [HD DVD]"
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000S0GYI4
Though we had expected to be able to send this item to you, we've
since found that it is not available from any of our sources at this
time. We realize this is disappointing news to hear, and we apologize
for the inconvenience we have caused you.
We have cancelled this item from your order.
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Amazon cancelled it for me... :-\ :-\ :-\
Yeah good thing your order is cancelled. Some of those that received it got really upset... :-\
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Whoa...rexdc, where did you buy your Spiderman Trilogy from?
It's very pricey. :-\
Got it from Cardinal Audio Virramall.. oo nga eh medyo mahal.. but when i saw it, my hand suddenly
had a mind of its own! it grabbed my wallet and gave the 5k to the saleslady ;D
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Many Players Need Firmware Update To Play Spider-Man 3 on Blu-ray
Spider-man 3 on Blu-ray is one of the Holiday season’s most highly anticipated releases on the 1080p high definition Blu-ray format but early adopters may have problems playing the disc in many of today’s Blu-ray players.
Using a review copy of "Spider-man 3" on Blu-ray on local tests at AVRev.com, the disc struggled to play in the brand new Samsung BD-P1400. After an excruciatingly long load-up time, the disc starts to freeze and skip from the very start. Audio dropping out, picture stuttering, you name it. Compared to the mainstream consumer’s expectation for DVD playback, most couldn’t make it to the actual film.
According to various reports, other players including units from Sony, Pioneer and other stand-alone Blu-ray players are reportedly having issues with the blockbuster and feature laden HD release.
Playstation 3 does come to the rescue. The game machine plays the disc like a champ. Although one of the first Blu-ray players on the market, the Sony Playstation 3 is without question the most reliable Blu-ray player on the market. While a game machine isn’t suited for many home theater applications, the lack of format incompatibilities paired with a low entry price makes the Playstation 3 the way many enthusiasts test the waters in a ferocious HD disc format war.
The release of Spider-man 3 on Blu-ray isn’t the first time that new blockbuster Blu-ray title has failed to play on existing machines. When "Pirates Of The Caribbean" 1 and 2 were released by Disney/Buena Vista, there was hardly a player out that could play the movies. All the first generation Blu-ray players required an immediate firmware update which requires a DVD-R disc being burnt on a PC and run on a machine or the units to be connected directly to the Internet. Each and every one of the AVRev.com reviewers and editors who were using the Samsung BDP-1000 were unable to play new Pirates Blu-ray discs without the firmware update. The new BD-Java encoding of disc (which was necessary for the interactive Liar's Dice game) ironically prevented the movie from playing. So a consumer pays $30 for a disc to watch the movie, and the bonus features of the disc make it not play at all. How intuitive is that?
"Pirates Of The Caribbean" wasn’t the end of Blu-ray titles being released and failing in many of the early players. Most recently, FOX released "The Day After Tomorrow" and "Fantastic Four: Rise Of The Silver Surfer" on Blu-ray. Both of these titles played on less than a handful of the players out there. Again, now it was the BD+ encoding of these discs reportedly that affected successful playback. A firmware update was needed by Samsung for the BDP-1000, which reportedly loaded the movie in an agonizing five plus minutes and then played the movie with more than its fair share of jitter, skipping, and freezing. The Samsung BD-P1200 reportedly did not play the movies at all. After inserting either of the discs, a screen appeared that stated the player could not play the discs and that a firmware upgrade was needed. Some of the newer players did better with the Fox and Disney titles. Playstation 3 still remains the most stable of the available players.
Consumers are struggling to understand why they need an HD disc player when DVDs work perfectly well in their systems. The difference between DVD and HD discs need to be seen and heard and then the upgrade is obvious. What is also obvious is the need for the Blu-ray camp to get their standards more stable so that studios can release top titles that work with relatively manageable number of Blu-ray players on the market. While the Playstation 3 is a tempting audience – it's not the only audience. A guy who drops $799 on a "top of the line" Blu-ray player, hooks it up via HDMI and is looking to the best video currently available doesn’t want to hear that his player won't play that latest disc or that he needs to spend hours burning and running firmware update discs before he can watch a new Blu-ray film.
Source (http://www.avrevforum.com/showthread.php?t=906)
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'Bourne Ultimatum' HD DVD Specs, Cover Art
Universal has delivered final specs for 'The Bourne Ultimatum,' and it promises to be yet another gangbusters next-gen release in the franchise, boasting a host of bonus features and exclusive U-Control content.
As we've previously reported, last month Universal set a December 11 release date for the 'Bourne Ultimatum' HD DVD/DVD combo, day-and-date with the standard DVD version. Though there were no specs revealed at the time, the studio promised a fully-loaded special edition for what is easily one of the eagerly-awaited high-def titles of the year.
Now, the full dossier is in, and the title would seem to live up to expectations. Standard extras shared between the HD DVD and DVD versions include audio commentary with the filmmakers, 12 minutes of deleted scenes, and a collection of five featurettes totaling over 45 minutes: "Driving School," "New York Chase," "Planning the Punches," "Roof Top Pursuit" and "Man on the Move."
Exclusive to the HD DVD will be a "U-Control" picture-in-picture video commentary including additional cast & crew interviews, behind-the-scenes footage and more.
Tech specs are equally impressive, with the set including the studio's usual 1080p/VC-1 video and audio tracks in both Dolby TrueHD and Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 surround.
As previously reported, 'Ultimatum' will also be included in 'The Jason Bourne Collection' HD DVD box set, which Universal is also debuting on December 11.
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4050/original.jpeg)
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal_(119_posts)/Exclusive_HD_Content/Disc_Announcements/Universal_Issues_Bourne_Ultimatum_HD_DVD_Specs,_Cover_Art/1086 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal_(119_posts)/Exclusive_HD_Content/Disc_Announcements/Universal_Issues_Bourne_Ultimatum_HD_DVD_Specs,_Cover_Art/1086)
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Got it from Cardinal Audio Virramall.. oo nga eh medyo mahal.. but when i saw it, my hand suddenly
had a mind of its own! it grabbed my wallet and gave the 5k to the saleslady ;D
That I can understand well after all it's Spiderman our friendly neighborhood hero...so no one can blame you. ;D
But do check your disc as per aeris30's post. If you're using a PS3 then it should be safe. :)
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(http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/pictures/l/08/48/BP-394.jpg)(http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/pictures/l/08/48/BP-394_ADD.jpg)
Spider-Man TM Trilogy Box [limited Pressing] [Blu-ray] - Japanese blu-ray box set release from the "Spiderman" series includes "Spiderman," "Spiderman 2 plus 1," "Spiderman 3," and bonus disc with HD content for four discs total. (image from CDJapan)
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That I can understand well after all it's Spiderman our friendly neighborhood hero...so no one can blame you. ;D
But do check your disc as per aeris30's post. If you're using a PS3 then it should be safe. :)
Yup, I'm using a PS3, no hiccups with any blu-ray release to date.. for me, this is the best player.. Sony keeps on adding features for every firmware update :) dirt cheap too.. (compared to other BR Players )
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Spider-Man TM Trilogy Box [limited Pressing] [Blu-ray] - Japanese blu-ray box set release from the "Spiderman" series includes "Spiderman," "Spiderman 2 plus 1," "Spiderman 3," and bonus disc with HD content for four discs total. (image from CDJapan)
Wow nice! Is the US version similar to the Japan? :D
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Yup, I'm using a PS3, no hiccups with any blu-ray release to date.. for me, this is the best player.. Sony keeps on adding features for every firmware update :) dirt cheap too.. (compared to other BR Players )
uh-oh...im using a BDP-1000 for my blu-ray..does this mean im gonna be having issues with Spider-man? still have a week before my spiderman arrives..hope im gonna be able to enjoy it... :'(
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'Transformers' HD DVD Smashes First-Week Sales Records
(http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r92/redstorm_photos/transfprmers.jpg)
Paramount says first-week sales numbers for its HD DVD release of 'Transformers' top those of any other high-def disc released on either next gen format to date.
According to a just-issued press release from Paramount, the HD DVD edition of 'Transformers' sold over 100,000 units in its first day of release, and went on to sell an additional 90,000 units over next six days, making it the fastest and best-selling week one release on either high definition format, as well as the best selling HD DVD ever.
The standard-def version of 'Transformers' also made news, moving over 8.3 million units in its first week, and 4.5 million copies on day one, a new record for the year 2007.
The performance of the 'Transformers' DVD and HD DVD has demonstrated the phenomenal success of this global franchise," said Kelley Avery, president, Worldwide Home Entertainment, Paramount Pictures. “We’re happy to be kicking off the fourth quarter with a title that clearly shows home entertainment releases are still an event that drives consumers into stores—which is a win for both content providers and retailers.”
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Michael_Bay/DreamWorks/Paramount/Disc_Sales/Transformers_HD_DVD_Smashes_First-Week_Sales_Records/1093 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Michael_Bay/DreamWorks/Paramount/Disc_Sales/Transformers_HD_DVD_Smashes_First-Week_Sales_Records/1093)
http://dvd.themanroom.com/dvd-detail.php?id=4006 (http://dvd.themanroom.com/dvd-detail.php?id=4006)
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Hello, guys, Newbie here.
I thought Sony Pictures only releases Blu Ray movies, But look what I found.
http://xploitedcinema.com/catalog/resident-evil-german-release-p-12916.html
Looks like Sony releases dual format movies after all. Or I may be mistaken.
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Hello, guys, Newbie here.
I thought Sony Pictures only releases Blu Ray movies, But look what I found.
http://xploitedcinema.com/catalog/resident-evil-german-release-p-12916.html
Looks like Sony releases dual format movies after all. Or I may be mistaken.
I think the exclusivity only applies to some geographic locations. For example, some US customers use Amazon.co.uk to order some HD-DVD that are blu-ray exclusive in the states.
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'Resident Evil,' 'Resident Evil Trilogy' Coming to Blu-ray Disc
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced the original 'Resident Evil' will be released Wednesday, January 2 on Blu-ray Disc with an SRP of $28.95, joining the previously released sequel 'Resident Evil: Apocalypse.'
The studio has also announced a package containing all three Resident Evil films, including recently theatrically released 'Resident Evil: Extinction,' will be available the same date with a MSRP of $58.95. Although no official announcement was made for a standalone version of Extinction, it's a safe bet January 2 will mark its arrival.
Resident Evil will be presented in widescreen 1.85:1 1080p video and PCM 5.1 audio. Supplemental features has yet to be revealed.
http://dvd.themanroom.com/dvd-newsview.php?id=763 (http://dvd.themanroom.com/dvd-newsview.php?id=763)
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Sony/Disc_Announements/Resident_Evil_Trilogy_Headed_to_Blu-ray/1094 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Sony/Disc_Announements/Resident_Evil_Trilogy_Headed_to_Blu-ray/1094)
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Blu-ray Disc Sales Lead HD DVD by Nearly 2:1 YTD; Q4 Crucial For HD DVD
Blu-ray disc sales exceeded those of HD DVD by a wide margin for the third quarter in a row, setting the stage for a crucial Q4 sales showdown.
According to recently released numbers from Home Media Research, sales of Blu-ray discs totaled 2.6 million units from January 1 through Sept 30, versus 1.4 million HD DVD discs sold over the same period. That's a 1.85:1 sales lead for Blu-ray for the first nine months of this year.
A month into the fourth quarter, however, there are some encouraging signs for HD DVD, with analysts predicting a much tighter disc sales race for the crucial holiday shopping season.
First off, there's last week's record-breaking HD DVD-exclusive release of 'Transformers' (which reportedly sold 190,000 units in its first seven days), followed by several upcoming high-profile releases exclusive to the HD DVD format, including 'Shrek the Third' and the newly remastered 'Star Trek: The Original Series - Season One' (an HD DVD/DVD combo disc release that will not be made available as a standalone standard-def DVD).
Of course, the Blu-ray camp has its own high-profile exclusive releases scheduled, sales of which which could very well exceed those of the above-listed HD DVD titles. Among the highly anticipated titles headed to Blu-ray this quarter are 'Spider-Man 3,' 'Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End' and 'The Simpsons Movie.'
Add hardware to the equation, and it becomes an even muddier picture. With prices dropping for next-gen players on both side of the aisle, there's no telling how many new early adopters will be entering the fray over the next two months, or what effect their hardware purchases will have on overall disc sales.
Source (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Industry_Forecasts/Disc_Sales/Blu-ray_Disc_Sales_Lead_HD_DVD_by_Nearly_2:1_YTD_Q4_Crucial_For_HD_DVD/1102)
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Disc Sales: Blu-ray Squeaks Weekly Win Against 'Transformers' HD DVD
Home Media Magazine is reporting a narrow Blu-ray disc sales victory for the week ending Oct 21, disputing Paramount's previously released sales numbers for HD DVD edition of 'The Transformers.'
According to the just-published report, Blu-ray won the week by a thin margin that amounts to 51% of the high-def discs sold, versus 49% for HD DVD. Although a two percent lead is certainly not commanding, many were expecting the HD DVD camp to win the week, thanks in large part to Paramount's high-profile HD DVD exclusive release of Transformers.
As we've previously reported, earlier this week Paramount issued a press release projecting record-breaking first-week sales of 190,000 units. Home Media Magazine disputes Paramount's numbers, estimating the actual number of units that sold through to consumers as closer to 115,000.
Some have theorized that Blu-ray's strong showing for the week in the face of such strong sales for 'The Transformers' is attributable in part to a series of "buy one get one free" offers extended by Disney at such leading retailers as Best Buy, Circuit City and Amazon.
In any case, here's betting these latest sales numbers will give both formats something to crow about this Friday. On the HD DVD side, 'The Transformers' propelled the format to its strongest weekly showing against its next-gen rival in over nine months; on the Blu-ray side, even up against the third biggest box office grosser of the year, the Sony-backed format still managed to eke out a victory.
source
(http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Paramount/Disc_Sales/Disc_Sales:_Blu-ray_Squeaks_Weekly_Win_Against_Transformers_HD_DVD/1109)
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Some have theorized that Blu-ray's strong showing for the week in the face of such strong sales for 'The Transformers' is attributable in part to a series of "buy one get one free" offers extended by Disney at such leading retailers as Best Buy, Circuit City and Amazon.
Yeah no doubt the "buy one get one free" caused a stir & boosted up BD sales...including myself who bought 8 tittles & becoming a neutral!! ;D
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Yeah no doubt the "buy one get one free" caused a stir & boosted up BD sales...including myself who bought 8 tittles & becoming a neutral!! ;D
Welcome to the DARK SIDE... ;D ;D ;D
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Same to you Mouldingo...welcome to the BRIGHT SIDE... ;D
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(http://i204.photobucket.com/albums/bb272/TauHeel05/310Yuma.jpg)
"3:10 to Yuma" on Blu-ray, 1/8/08. Includes 7.1 PCM audio!
(http://i21.tinypic.com/jab2g2.jpg)
November 27th
(http://images.dvdempire.com/gen/movies/1367766h.jpg)
(http://images.dvdempire.com/gen/movies/1367766bh.jpg)
December 4th
(http://i204.photobucket.com/albums/bb272/TauHeel05/shootemup.jpg)
"Shoot 'Em Up" on Blu-ray, 1/1/08. Includes DTS-MA 7.1!
(http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/4535/protectedimagephppa1.jpg)
(http://i20.tinypic.com/260dfs3.jpg)
November 6th
(http://i23.tinypic.com/107svvl.jpg)
December 11th
(http://i24.tinypic.com/1llyg.jpg)
December 11th
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so many great movies being released on the same dates...ubos talaga savings! hahahaha
and thepatriot's list doesnt include the great movies coming out on HD-dvd...sooooo many....
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Geez...after turning neutral, I'm not so sure if that's a good decision as this mean more spending to come....more noodle to buy.. :'( :-\
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Geez...after turning neutral, I'm not so sure if that's a good decision as this mean more spending to come....more noodle to buy.. :'( :-\
but at the end of the day..its all worth it.. ;D
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Geez...after turning neutral, I'm not so sure if that's a good decision as this mean more spending to come....more noodle to buy.. :'( :-\
same here. I know how you feel sir P. After turning neutral in just three weeks, I have more Blu Rays than HDs.
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http://www.davisdvd.com/weekly/brvshd.html
a good review/report and comparison.
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http://www.davisdvd.com/weekly/brvshd.html
a good review/report and comparison.
does that cover all purchases or just that website? well..dont really care who wins..as long as somebody wins soon so that we wont have to buy seperate equipment for our fav movies..
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but at the end of the day..its all worth it.. ;D
Yep, once we're movie fans it's always worth it...I guess the more, the better.. :P
After turning neutral in just three weeks, I have more Blu Rays than HDs.
Now, that's more dangerous than I thought! Keep em coming bro. ;D
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Warner's vice president of High-Definition hinted going BLU-RAY ONLY. >:(
"But Home Media Magazine reports that Silverberg believes that Blu-ray may be winning the format war and, consequently, it may be time for the studio to pick one over the other."
“We can definitely talk Blu-ray,” he said. “We are committed to the format.”
http://www.tvpredictions.com/bluwarner103007.htm
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Warner's vice president of High-Definition hinted going BLU-RAY ONLY. >:(
"But Home Media Magazine reports that Silverberg believes that Blu-ray may be winning the format war and, consequently, it may be time for the studio to pick one over the other."
“We can definitely talk Blu-ray,” he said. “We are committed to the format.”
http://www.tvpredictions.com/bluwarner103007.htm
Definitely the war is over once this happens... ;D ;D ;D
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(http://img131.imageshack.us/img131/2876/mrwoodcockblurayav1.jpg)
(http://images.dvdempire.com/gen/movies/1375405h.jpg)
January 8th 2008
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Warner's vice president of High-Definition hinted going BLU-RAY ONLY. >:(
"But Home Media Magazine reports that Silverberg believes that Blu-ray may be winning the format war and, consequently, it may be time for the studio to pick one over the other."
“We can definitely talk Blu-ray,” he said. “We are committed to the format.”
http://www.tvpredictions.com/bluwarner103007.htm
Warner Home Video to support Blu-ray exclusively?
Don't etch this one in stone just yet, but for those keeping a close eye on studios and which camp(s) they support, here's the latest. Reportedly, a so-called Blu-ray Festival has been raging in Hollywood, and aside from BD backers showing up in support of upcoming / existing films, there have also been a few interesting remarks uttered along the way. Most notably, Dan Silverberg, VP of high-definition media for Warner Home Video, stated that "one thing that may be changing is [Warner's] strategy," and he continued by proclaiming that hardware prices had reached a point where consumers "no longer wanted to decide" which format reigned supreme. The speech actually got interesting when he mentioned that the "notion of staying in two formats for the duration is something the company was re-evaluating." Beyond that, egos were simply inflated even more as recent BD vs. HD DVD sales figures were trumpeted about, but we think the aforementioned commentary is far more interesting that hearing about numbers we're already familiar with.
http://www.engadget.com/2007/10/30/warner-home-video-to-support-blu-ray-exclusively/
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Hope WB will decide soon & the outcome will end the format war once & for all... ::)
But then again...I forgot I'm a neutral na...so it doesn't really matter who wins... ;D
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Ako neutral din, pero for some reason gusto ko manalo hd-dvd, kasi at least kung talo blu ray, magagamit ko pa din ps3 ko for games.... hehe
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Warner Mulls Change in High-Def Strategy
A Warner Home Video exec says the studio is re-evaluating its dual-format support, and appeared to suggest that it was leaning towards Blu-ray.
As first reported by Home Media Magazine, the studio's statements came at yesterday's Blu-ray Festival press event in Los Angeles, where Warner VP Dan Silverberg represented the only major dual-format studio, following Paramount's move to HD DVD exclusivity this past August.
According to Silverberg, however, that may not be for long.
"One thing that may be changing is our strategy," he said. "When both formats launched and hardware prices were high, we made a decision to support both formats and let the consumer decide. But now that hardware pricing is affordable for both Blu-ray and HD DVD, it appears consumers no longer want to decide — so the notion of staying in two formats for the duration is something we are re-evaluating now that we are in the fourth quarter."
Silverberg went on to emphasize the Warner's strong Blu-ray sales, noting that the studio's Blu-ray release of '300' is the format's top selling disc. "We can definitely talk Blu-ray," said Silverberg. "We are committed to the format."
Taken together, a "commitment" to Blu-ray and re-evaluation of its dual-format policy would seem to suggest that if the studio did choose one format over the other, it would be Blu-ray, although it wasn't immediately clear whether that was the intent of Silverberg's remarks.
Needless to say, as word of Silverberg's remarks hit the web, discussions hit a fevered pitch in our "HD DVD vs Blu-ray Smackdown Forum." Having released more high-def titles on either format than any other studio, a decision by Warner to drop support of either format would drastically change the current landscape of the format war.
Silverberg declined to provide a timeline for a final decision from the studio, but here's guessing we'll be hearing more on this topic in the coming days and weeks. Stay tuned...
http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Warner_Mulls_Change_in_High-Def_Strategy/1123
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'I, Robot' Blu-ray Delayed; New Features Promised
Fans of 'I, Robot' will have to wait a few more months for the Will Smith flick to hit Blu-ray, but Fox says they'll be rewarded for their patience.
Although it had been scheduled to hit Blu-ray on November 13, rumors of a possible delay had been circulating for the last month. On Monday, Fox confirmed a street date bump for the title until sometime in the first half of 2008, attributing the delay to the addition of new content.
Among the features now planned for the BD-50 disc are several audio commentaries, a an annotated fact track, a searchable content index, a D-Box enhanced audio track, and a series of "Behind the Camera" featurettes, which will be delivered via seamless branching.
Additionally, the studio is promising a new "dual-menu navigation system" for the title, which it says will allow for easier access to the disc's bonus features.
Other tech specs will include the studio's standard 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer, plus DTS-HD Master Audio.
Source (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Fox/I,_Robot_Blu-ray_Delayed_New_Features_Promised/1120)
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Hope WB will decide soon & the outcome will end the format war once & for all... ::)
But then again...I forgot I'm a neutral na...so it doesn't really matter who wins... ;D
hmmm..i want to go neutral..but with this type of news..its giving me second thoughts.. :-\
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@ chuck427, certain movies are exclusive to HD DVD: Transformers, Shrek 3, Bourne Trilogy, Harry Potter, etc...
So if you love any of these movies, you still have very good reasons to be neutral so long you have budget for another extra player. ;D
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@ chuck427, certain movies are exclusive to HD DVD: Transformers, Shrek 3, Bourne Trilogy, Harry Potter, etc...
So if you love any of these movies, you still have very good reasons to be neutral so long you have budget for another extra player. ;D
I guess if one format wins, all the other movies released exclusively on the losing format will eventually be released on the winning format.. So for me, I'll just wait it out.. Although I have already bought some Blu-ray movies because I think Blu-ray will win eventually..
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@ chuck427, certain movies are exclusive to HD DVD: Transformers, Shrek 3, Bourne Trilogy, Harry Potter, etc...
So if you love any of these movies, you still have very good reasons to be neutral so long you have budget for another extra player. ;D
Harry isn't all red...and he may turn all blue :P :P :P
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@ chuck427, certain movies are exclusive to HD DVD: Transformers, Shrek 3, Bourne Trilogy, Harry Potter, etc...
So if you love any of these movies, you still have very good reasons to be neutral so long you have budget for another extra player. ;D
I concur. So if your fave movies are falling on both sides of the fence, this could provide you a very compelling reason to get an HD gaming console - XBOX with HD DVD player peripheral or the legendary PS3 if you're placing your bet on BR.
Personally, am on the Blu Ray camp - having a PS3 does influence one's perspective on these matters. ;)
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Harry isn't all red...and he may turn all blue :P :P :P
Doh! At least for the time being, Harry is blushing with RED ;D
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I guess if one format wins, all the other movies released exclusively on the losing format will eventually be released on the winning format.. So for me, I'll just wait it out.. Although I have already bought some Blu-ray movies because I think Blu-ray will win eventually..
I am format neutral, pero kinakabahan nako pag nanalo blu ray, di ko alam gagawin ko sa hd-dvd player and discs ko pag nangyari yon :(
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Doh! At least for the time being, Harry is blushing with RED ;D
But last 2 books may be all blue, kaya baka mabitin :D :D :D
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I am format neutral, pero kinakabahan nako pag nanalo blu ray, di ko alam gagawin ko sa hd-dvd player and discs ko pag nangyari yon :(
I wouldn't worry about what will happen to your hd-dvd player and discs if ever hddvd loses out. First the hddvd standalone player can upscale dvds (of course depending on region). I dont think everybody will buy every title and replace their existing dvd collection all over again. Im sure some people will already be satisfied with the dvd versions of some movies. Also your hddvd discs will still work in your hd player.. Secondly, if for example you have an addon, like me, it wont be that painful because the addon is a cheap investment if you already have an xbox 360 and love gaming also. Now I think there will really be a big problem if you buy the addon, 3 to 4 hddvd discs and within weeks or a month hddvd dies ..This will hurt bad bec one just purchase a unit and 3 to 4 discs to go along with it. You will be stuck with these and can no longer purchase any hddvd movies when hddvd dies.. This will indeed hurt..
I think this will be the same situation on the other side of the fence. Actually it will be more painful for bluray because the units are more expensive. This is the reason I have both the gaming units and not the standalone at the moment bec whichever one loses out I will still have the gaming for it. I have the xbox 360 for p....d games and the ps3 for orig games that dont come out in p...d.. ;D If blu-ray loses out I have a ps3 gaming machine, which is its actual purpose.."Gaming"..I cant wait for Gran Turismo 5.. ;D
IMO, enjoy what you have, enjoy the movies and dont worry about who will lose out bec actually when we jump in hidef, we are really taking a chance that there will be a loser talaga or like what I always believe: The future will be dual format, and this new gimmick of hidef will take a long long time to replace dvds. Niche market talaga, It might not even succeed (When this happens I will then panic and freak out ;D)..Until hd disc prices drop big time to 8 to 12 dollars level for catalog and maybe 15 to 18 for new releases, then I think we will see this take over dvds.
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I wouldn't worry about what will happen to your hd-dvd player and discs if ever hddvd loses out. First the hddvd standalone player can upscale dvds (of course depending on region). I dont think everybody will buy every title and replace their existing dvd collection all over again. Im sure some people will already be satisfied with the dvd versions of some movies. Also your hddvd discs will still work in your hd player.. Secondly, if for example you have an addon, like me, it wont be that painful because the addon is a cheap investment if you already have an xbox 360 and love gaming also. Now I think there will really be a big problem if you buy the addon, 3 to 4 hddvd discs and within weeks or a month hddvd dies ..This will hurt bad bec one just purchase a unit and 3 to 4 discs to go along with it. You will be stuck with these and can no longer purchase any hddvd movies when hddvd dies.. This will indeed hurt..
I think this will be the same situation on the other side of the fence. Actually it will be more painful for bluray because the units are more expensive. This is the reason I have both the gaming units and not the standalone at the moment bec whichever one loses out I will still have the gaming for it. I have the xbox 360 for p....d games and the ps3 for orig games that dont come out in p...d.. ;D If blu-ray loses out I have a ps3 gaming machine, which is its actual purpose.."Gaming"..I cant wait for Gran Turismo 5.. ;D
IMO, enjoy what you have, enjoy the movies and dont worry about who will lose out bec actually when we jump in hidef, we are really taking a chance that there will be a loser talaga or like what I always believe: The future will be dual format, and this new gimmick of hidef will take a long long time to replace dvds. Niche market talaga, It might not even succeed (When this happens I will then panic and freak out ;D)..Until hd disc prices drop big time to 8 to 12 dollars level for catalog and maybe 15 to 18 for new releases, then I think we will see this take over dvds.
Well i have the toshiba hd-dvd player and not the xbox 360, kapos sa budget kung ps3 and xbox360 eh. also, takot din ako sa red rings of death ng xbox360. Regarding upscaling, ps3 can also upscale, so it does the same thing as the hd-dvd player in terms of upscaling.
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Has anybody evaluated the upscaling capabilities of the PS3? I tried playing a DVD on my PS3 (vs. a dvd with upscaler - faroudja chip) but didn't see a major difference and let's just say I wasn't exactly jumping out of my seat. Well maybe because my set is only HD ready (Samsung 61" DLP). Have yet to try it on my Philips Full HD (37" Pixel Plus HD) to see if a 1080p monitor would make a difference. Let's see how this rides. ::)
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Has anybody evaluated the upscaling capabilities of the PS3? I tried playing a DVD on my PS3 (vs. a dvd with upscaler - faroudja chip) but didn't see a major difference and let's just say I wasn't exactly jumping out of my seat. Well maybe because my set is only HD ready (Samsung 61" DLP). Have yet to try it on my Philips Full HD (37" Pixel Plus HD) to see if a 1080p monitor would make a difference. Let's see how this rides. ::)
what is the other dvd player with the faroudja chip?
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@ chuck427, certain movies are exclusive to HD DVD: Transformers, Shrek 3, Bourne Trilogy, Harry Potter, etc...
So if you love any of these movies, you still have very good reasons to be neutral so long you have budget for another extra player. ;D
Harry's HD? i saw on highdefdigest.com that Harry will be both on Blu and HD..was there a new update i maybe missed?
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Saw this news.... HD-DVD player for $99 sa wal-mart on friday!!! :o
http://www.engadgethd.com/2007/11/01/toshiba-hd-a2-hd-dvd-player-100-this-friday-wal-mart/
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Saw this news.... HD-DVD player for $99 sa wal-mart on friday!!! :o
http://www.engadgethd.com/2007/11/01/toshiba-hd-a2-hd-dvd-player-100-this-friday-wal-mart/
(http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/2007/11/cheap-wal-mart-hd-a2.jpg)
Pwede kaya mag price match and Best Buy at Circuit City bukas for this promo? :D
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(http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/2007/11/cheap-wal-mart-hd-a2.jpg)
Pwede kaya mag price match and Best Buy at Circuit City bukas for this promo? :D
di ko alam, and to add to this pala, $14.69 na lang on hd-dvd titles... good while supplies last. Punta ako this friday, may 3 walmart na malapit samin!!!!! tamang tama, huling hirit ko before i go home to manila on Monday!!! :o
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Wal-mart HD DVDs for 14.96 tomorrow at 8am
Here's the complete list of the 14.96 HD DVDs;
Clerks 2
Lucky # S7even
Pulse
Failure to Launch
4 Brothers
Italian Job
Sleepy Hollow
Casino
12 Monkeys
Backdraft
Big Lebowski
Sea Biscuit
Alexander Revisted
Blood Diamond
Full Metal Jacket
The Last Samurai
Swordfish
Unforgiven
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Wal-mart HD DVDs for 14.96 tomorrow at 8am
Here's the complete list of the 14.96 HD DVDs;
Clerks 2
Lucky # S7even
Pulse
Failure to Launch
4 Brothers
Italian Job
Sleepy Hollow
Casino
12 Monkeys
Backdraft
Big Lebowski
Sea Biscuit
Alexander Revisted
Blood Diamond
Full Metal Jacket
The Last Samurai
Swordfish
Unforgiven
NeilNo, san mo nakuha yung list?
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NeilNo, san mo nakuha yung list?
May nag-post ng list sa AVS forum... ;D
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http://holiday.ri-walmart.com/?section=secret&utm_source=Walmartcom&utm_medium=POV1&utm_content=secret1&utm_campaign=holiday&povid=cat14503-env15844-module117144-lLink1
enjoy!
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what is the other dvd player with the faroudja chip?
Samsung DVD-HD938. One of the 1st upscalers - great PQ up to 720p/1080i. ;)
Here's a pic http://www.samsung.com/ph/products/dvd/legacymodels/dvd_hd938.asp (http://www.samsung.com/ph/products/dvd/legacymodels/dvd_hd938.asp)
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di ko alam, and to add to this pala, $14.69 na lang on hd-dvd titles... good while supplies last. Punta ako this friday, may 3 walmart na malapit samin!!!!! tamang tama, huling hirit ko before i go home to manila on Monday!!! :o
Wow sarap! Puede bang maki-hitch sir? ;) That HD-DVD player and discs on sale are irresistible. ;D
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Saw in the other forum di ka umabot sa player bro, sayang. I gather the HD-DVD camp is stepping up its promotions as well to keep step with the Bluray bandwagon. It would be great to have both - does anybody have any leads on discounted HD DVD players, similar to the Tosh deal? Do post here. ;)
Many thanks,
Marl1
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(http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l225/moretonbaydvd/sunshine2.jpg)
Specs: Audio: English: DTS 5.1 HD / English, Spanish, & French: Dolby Digital 5.1
Language: Dubbed: English, French & Spanish / Subtitled: English, French & Spanish
Theatrical Aspect Ratio: Widescreen: 2.35:1
Episodes-Bonus Features: **DELETED SCENES WITH OPTIONAL COMMENTARY BY DIRECTOR DANNY BOYLE:
*Part I: Playing Chess It Really Takes it Out of You; Washing Carrots in the the Oxygen Garden; Coolant Redirection;
Cooking; Wake-Up
*Part II: Demolished Oxygen Garden; Searle Meets Capa
*In Deeper Space Than We Are
*Prepping for Docking
*Rough Docking Procedure
*Fight and Then We Die
*Alternate Ending
**WEB PRODUCTION DIARIES:
*Danny Boyle Introduction
*Danny
*Zero G Flight
*Cillian
*Pre Viz
*Science of the Sun
*Hiroyuki
*Troy Garity Harvey Introduction
*Voice of Icarus
*Michelle and O2 Garden
*Anita Screens
*Alwin Kuchler
*Cliff Curtis
*Bumps and Stunts
*Benny
*The Science of Space Travel Physiology
*Space Suit
*Rose Intro
*Love Letters
*Chris Evans
*VFX
*Big Bangs
*The Science of Sun Death
**Short Films (with same :52 audio intro by Danny Boyle to play at head of each):
*Dad's Dead directed by Chris Shepherd
*Mole Hills directed by Dan Arnold
**A Brilliant Vision: Enhanced Viewing Mode with the Filmmakers of Sunshine (authoring - use Instruction Page & play-all button)
*Icarus Kitchen
*Designing Icarus / Kaneda's Room
*Zero Gravity Rehearsal
*Oxygen Garden Fire
*Stunt Jump Through Space
*Cast Preparing for Film
*Pinbacker's Makeup
*Mace Fixes Mainframe
*Space Suits
*Payload Showdown
**Journey Into Sound: Surround Sound Enhancement (authoring - use Instruction Page & play-all button)
*Searle in Observation Room
*Capa Speaks with Icarus
*Capa Discovers Pinbacker
*Capa Battles Pinbacker
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must.....have......
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must.....have......
definitely!! but to get the full use of it, a 1.1 player is gonna be needed..
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definitely!! but to get the full use of it, a 1.1 player is gonna be needed..
1.1 na ba ang ps3?
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1.1 na ba ang ps3?
i dont think so..but im sure they will release a firmware upgrade to make it 1.1 compliant..
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Geez...after turning neutral, I'm not so sure if that's a good decision as this mean more spending to come....more noodle to buy.. :'( :-\
If I turn purple, I literally have to buy a lot of noodles...Nissin Cup Noodles in particular because that's all I can afford to be eating for a while. But with my PC and fast internet connection, I'm actually quasi-purple already.
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definitely!! but to get the full use of it, a 1.1 player is gonna be needed..
newbie question - can you expound on the "1.1" platform (advantages) to maximize sunshine? ???
many thanks bro
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newbie question - can you expound on the "1.1" platform (advantages) to maximize sunshine? ???
many thanks bro
newbie answer - being 1.1 compliant makes a Blu-Ray player match the "standard" performance of an HD DVD player in terms of special/bonus features. :)
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(http://img452.imageshack.us/img452/1416/bladeko6.jpg)
This Blu-ray-DVD is scheduled to be released on December 18, 2007
Blade Runner: Ultimate Collector's Edition.
Rated: R
Format: Blu-ray DVD, 5-disc
Starring: Harrison Ford, Sean Young and Rutger Hauer
Director: Ridley Scott
Genre: Sci-Fi
Release Date: December 18, 2007
Copyright: 2007
Visually spectacular, intensely action-packed and powerfully prophetic since its debut, Blade Runner returns in Ridley Scott's definitive Final Cut, including extended scenes and never-before-seen special effects. In a signature role as 21st-century detective Rick Deckard, Harrison Ford brings his masculine-yet-vulnerable presence to this stylish noir thriller. In a future of high-tech possibility soured by urban and social decay, Deckard hunts for fugitive, muderous replicants - and is drawn to a mystery woman whose secrets may undermine his soul. This spectacular 5-Disc Set includes all five version of the legendary Sci-Fi film from Director Ridley Scott - the definitive Final Cut with all new 5.1 audio, three additional versions of the film, and the rare Work Print version - in addition to the in-depth feature length documentary "Dangerous Days", and one complete disc of bonus content including over 80-minutes of never-before-seen deleted scenes. The Ultimate Collector's Edition is packaged in a limited edition, numbered "Deckard" briefcase and features rare and collectable memorabilia such as a Spinner car replica, Unicorn figurine, Illustration and Photo cards, and a lenticular Motion Film Clip in lucite. This is the ultimate collection that no fan should be without!
Guess,if im not mistaken.. this is the 1st packaging/collectors set for the blu ray title franchise.
MSRP... $99.99
Costco... $68.99
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'Dragon Wars' to do Battle on Blu-ray
Sony has announced that the South Korean sensation 'Dragon Wars' will roar on Blu-ray day-and-date with the DVD this January
Though a critical and commercial flop stateside, 'Dragon Wars' was a huge box office hit in South Korea and some other international territories. Hoping to reverse its fortunes in the US, Sony will give the CGI-heavy fantasy film another shot on video when it debuts the film January 8 on both Blu-ray and DVD.
Announced extras are identical to both formats, with the fairly slim package including the "500 Years in the Making" featurette, a set of "Dragon Wars Animatics" and a photo gallery.
Tech specs for the Blu-ray include 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and uncompressed PCM 5.1 surround tracks in English and French.
Source (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Sony/Disc_Announcements/Dragon_Wars_to_do_Battle_on_Blu-ray/1145)
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Warner Says Blu-ray Comments "Misquoted and Misconstrued"
Nearly a week after a Warner VP appeared to indicate otherwise, the studio told High-Def Digest that it has no plans to cease its dual-format stance, pledging a strong line-up for both Blu-ray and HD DVD in 2008.
News that Warner was eying a change in its high-def strategy spread like wildfire last week, following a story in industry trade Home Media Magazine that included a series of comments attributed to Warner VP of High-Definition Media Dan Silverberg at last week's Blu-ray Festival in Los Angeles.
"One thing that may be changing is our strategy," Silverberg was quoted as saying. "When both formats launched and hardware prices were high, we made a decision to support both formats and let the consumer decide. But now that hardware pricing is affordable for both Blu-ray and HD DVD, it appears consumers no longer want to decide -- so the notion of staying in two formats for the duration is something we are re-evaluating."
Silverberg reportedly followed up his remarks by citing strong Blu-ray sales for the studio's top-selling '300' release, saying that "we can definitely talk Blu-ray" and that Warner is "committed to the format," a set of comments that seemed to suggest that the studio was considering a move to exclusive support of the Blu-ray format.
Following several days of breathless speculation from fans and industry insiders alike, Warner is now breaking its silence on the matter, referring to Silverberg's remarks as having been "misquoted and misconstrued."
Speaking with High-Def Digest, Jim Noonan, SVP of Strategic Promotion and Communication for Warner Home Entertainment Group said "I can tell you that Warner's position has not changed, and I know that Dan did not intend to suggest that wasn't the case. We support both formats and we have made no decision to alter that policy, nor are there any such announcements coming, or being planned."
As for speculation that the studio is waiting for Q4 sales results before making an announcement of format exclusivity -- perhaps even as soon as this January's CES in Las Vegas -- Noonan shot down any such short-term scenarios.
"Like any major company, we are always reviewing our strategies in every aspect of our business, it is what smart companies do. I can't say what may happen five, ten years down the line. But right now, Warner Bros. has made no decision to change course. We are still onboard with both formats, and will continue [with a strong line-up of new releases and catalog titles], just as we have in the past in supporting HD DVD and Blu-ray."
Source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Warner_Says_Blu-ray_Comments_Misquoted_and_Misconstrued/1135)
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Thanks for that confirmation bro. WB staying neutral - that's indeed good to hear. ;)
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newbie answer - being 1.1 compliant makes a Blu-Ray player match the "standard" performance of an HD DVD player in terms of special/bonus features. :)
ayt thanks bro, newbie now understands. ;)
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Universal Brings 'The Kingdom' to HD DVD this December
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4241/original.jpeg)
The high-octane political thriller 'The Kingdom' is headed to high-def as a feature-packed HD DVD/DVD combo release.
Starring Jamie Foxx and Jennifer Garner as members of an FBI team solving a terrorist bombing in Saudi Arabia, the film was received with mixed reviews upon its theatrical release in late September, but it'll be getting the red carpet treatment when it makes its HD DVD debut on December 26, day-and-date with the standard-def DVD.
Announced supplements are extensive, with all versions sharing an audio commentary with director Peter Berg, four featurettes ("Creating the Kingdom," "History of the Kingdom," "Constructing the Freeway Sequence," "Surveillance") and deleted scenes. Exclusive to the HD DVD will be a U-Control-enabled picture-in-picture video commentary, plus additional web-enabled content (details to be announced).
Tech specs include 1080p/VC-1 video and audio tracks in both Dolby TrueHD and Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 surround.
Universal has set a suggested retail price for HD DVD/DVD combo version of $39.98.
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Exclusive_HD_Content/Disc_Announcements/Universal_Brings_The_Kingdom_to_HD_DVD_this_December/1149 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Exclusive_HD_Content/Disc_Announcements/Universal_Brings_The_Kingdom_to_HD_DVD_this_December/1149)
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'Dragon Wars' to do Battle on Blu-ray
Sony has announced that the South Korean sensation 'Dragon Wars' will roar on Blu-ray day-and-date with the DVD this January
Though a critical and commercial flop stateside, 'Dragon Wars' was a huge box office hit in South Korea and some other international territories. Hoping to reverse its fortunes in the US, Sony will give the CGI-heavy fantasy film another shot on video when it debuts the film January 8 on both Blu-ray and DVD.
Announced extras are identical to both formats, with the fairly slim package including the "500 Years in the Making" featurette, a set of "Dragon Wars Animatics" and a photo gallery.
Tech specs for the Blu-ray include 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and uncompressed PCM 5.1 surround tracks in English and French.
Source (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Sony/Disc_Announcements/Dragon_Wars_to_do_Battle_on_Blu-ray/1145)
How's the sale of "The Host" in the US? I guess, with that on mind. Dragon Wars will suffer the same fate.
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Thanks for that confirmation bro. WB staying neutral - that's indeed good to hear. ;)
i agree...now back to saving up for an HD-player again!! ;D
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Korek, I'll second that ;) Sama ako dyan bro...
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Universal Brings 'The Kingdom' to HD DVD this December
That's good news...Since the release is so near, we'll skip the movie in cinema & will just wait for the HD DVD. :D
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Blade Runner: The Final Cut + soundtrack CD (Exclusive to Amazon.co.uk) [HD DVD]
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51AnMfDQq-L._SS500_.jpg)
This title will be released on December 3, 2007.
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Paramount Reveals 'Stardust' HD DVD Specs, Cover Art
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4262/original.jpeg)
The big-budget fantasy-adventure 'Stardust' will be hitting HD DVD with plenty of supplemental features, but no high-res audio.
As we've previously reported, last month Paramount announced a December 18 high-def debut for 'Stardust,' day-and-date with the standard DVD. Now the studio has revealed specs for the Claire Danes/Robert De Niro/Michelle Pfeiffer flick, which despite a disappointing run at the box office this summer will get the full special edition treatment in its next-gen debut.
Extras are set to include the documentary "Good Omens: The Making of 'Stardust'" (in HD), a collection of five Deleted Scenes, a Blooper Reel, and the film's original Theatrical Trailer (also in HD).
Tech specs boast 1080p video (codec TBA), but the studio is once again eschewing high-res audio, releasing the disc with English, French and Spanish tracks in Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 Surround only (1.5mbps).
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Paramount/Disc_Announcements/Paramount_Reveals_Stardust_HD_DVD_Specs,_Cover_Art/1151 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Paramount/Disc_Announcements/Paramount_Reveals_Stardust_HD_DVD_Specs,_Cover_Art/1151)
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'The Invasion' Coming to HD DVD, Blu-ray Disc
(http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r92/redstorm_photos/invasionHD.jpg) (http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r92/redstorm_photos/invasionBD.jpg)
Warner Home Video has announced The Invasion, the Invasion of the Body Snatchers remake starring Nicole Kidman and Daniel Craig, will be released January 8 on Combo Format HD DVD and Blu-ray Disc. The high definition release is day-and-date with the standard DVD debut.
The Invasion will be presented in widescreen 1.85:1 1080p video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 lossless audio on both high definition home video formats. The HD DVD will also include a secondary Dolby Digital Plus 5.1 track, while the Blu-ray version will offer a Dolby Digital 5.1 track.
Warner has chosen not to include any high definition exclusive supplemental features so everything found on the HD DVD and Blu-ray Disc will be identical to whats found on the standard DVD. Those features includes;
We've Been Snatched Before: Invasion in Media History Documentary; and three featurettes: A New Story, On the Set, and Snatched.
http://dvd.themanroom.com/dvd-newsview.php?id=787 (http://dvd.themanroom.com/dvd-newsview.php?id=787)
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Toshiba and DreamWorks Animation Launch HD DVD Ads for 'Shrek The Third,' Proving High Def Picture Quality is Not 'Far Far Away'
WAYNE, N.J. (Map) - WAYNE, N.J., Nov. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C. ("Toshiba") and DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. (NYSE: DWA) announced today the launch of a new creative advertising campaign to support the release of "Shrek the Third," in high definition, exclusively on HD DVD. The TV ads spotlight the outstanding picture quality of the HD DVD version of the film and reinforce the consumer benefits of watching movies on HD DVD.
The 30 second TV commercials use the much-loved characters Donkey and Gingerbread Man, who discuss with studio execs how life-like they become when viewed on HD DVD. Currently airing, the two TV ads will run during network prime time and on several cable outlets. The ads incorporate the tagline "It all begins with HD," to convey that DVD is taken to the next level with HD DVD.
"Because our films are created digitally, the best way to watch "Shrek the Third" is on HD DVD," said Ann Daly, Chief Operating Officer of DreamWorks Animation. "With our films now in this format, families can get the highest quality viewing experience on their home televisions in HD."
"Shrek the Third," hitting shelves November 13, is another example of the great exclusive titles coming to HD DVD this holiday season. A family favorite, the movie features the voices of Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy and Cameron Diaz, all brought to life with HD DVD's high definition video and superior audio. The film also offers content exclusive to HD DVD such as Picture-in-Picture features, customizable character menu skins and web-enabled network features like Shrek's Trivia Track, The World of Shrek and Donkey's Digital Coloring Book. Only HD DVD can provide this type of content with currently available hardware and software.
Full Article (http://www.examiner.com/p-70425~Toshiba_and_DreamWorks_Animation_Launch_HD_DVD_Ads_for__Shrek_The_Third___Proving_High_Def_Picture_Quality_is_Not__Far_Far_Away_.html)
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Another Blu Ray BOGO(Buy One Get One Free) from Amazon
Sugod na naman ;D ;D ;D
Sony Titles (http://amazon.com/gp/feature.html?ie=UTF8&docId=1000161701&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=09P7DCWXKBTHE1S7ATZQ&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=324342701&pf_rd_i=193640011)
Disney Titles (http://amazon.com/gp/feature.html?ie=UTF8&docId=1000161681&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=0D9R7YNKHBFMYYT621TA&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=324339201&pf_rd_i=193640011)
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Thanks for the heads up Mouldingo...oh man here we go again another round of BOGO.
Nothing much from Disney titles as I already bought them previously but plenty I want to get from SONY titles! :o
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We should be happy that there is a format war. Do you think we will be enjoying this promotional stuff (slashed hardware prices, BOGO) if there is only 1 format?? It turned out, having HD DVD and Blu-ray in fold benefits consumers. CE companies and studios are quick to react to competitor strategies.
Blu-ray dampened the "Transformers" HD DVD launch with BOGO deals. Now they are doing it again, this time to match up with HD DVD's $99 player deals. This is great stuff for consumers!!! ;D ;D
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Another Blu Ray BOGO(Buy One Get One Free) from Amazon
Sugod na naman ;D ;D ;D
Sony Titles (http://amazon.com/gp/feature.html?ie=UTF8&docId=1000161701&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=09P7DCWXKBTHE1S7ATZQ&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=324342701&pf_rd_i=193640011)
Disney Titles (http://amazon.com/gp/feature.html?ie=UTF8&docId=1000161681&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=0D9R7YNKHBFMYYT621TA&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=324339201&pf_rd_i=193640011)
Damn.. Can't check out.. Amazon website too slow. Dami yata bumibili ngayon sa BLU-RAY BOGO.. :( :( :(
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Blu-ray will surely dominate the entire Q4 with their BOGO offer. To avoid being a sitting duck, I hope HD DVD will have some great promo soon...Black Friday is just around the corner.
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Blu-ray will surely dominate the entire Q4 with their BOGO offer. To avoid being a sitting duck, I hope HD DVD will have some great promo soon...Black Friday is just around the corner.
Wala na halos mapili sa Blu BOGO :'( :'( :'( I hope the red corner will do the same too ;D ;D ;D
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We should be happy that there is a format war. Do you think we will be enjoying this promotional stuff (slashed hardware prices, BOGO) if there is only 1 format?? It turned out, having HD DVD and Blu-ray in fold benefits consumers. CE companies and studios are quick to react to competitor strategies.
Blu-ray dampened the "Transformers" HD DVD launch with BOGO deals. Now they are doing it again, this time to match up with HD DVD's $99 player deals. This is great stuff for consumers!!! ;D ;D
long live the format war!!! and long live the price slashes and sales offers!!!! ;D
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long live the format war!!! and long live the price slashes and sales offers!!!! ;D
AMEN to that! ;D
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can I clear the offer properly.
It says on top of the list: "A limited time offer: Choose one of these great movies & TV series on Blu-ray and get another one from this selected list for free."
So does this mean we can choose new titles from the main page and choose a free title from the list provided in this link: Buy One Blu-ray Disc, Get One Free (http://amazon.com/gp/feature.html/102-0518287-7721728?ie=UTF8&plgroup=1&docId=1000161681&plpage=2)
medyo naguluhan lang ako dun sa offer nila. ???
Anyway, up to when yung promo nila?
Many thanks. :D
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Ramil, it says "choose one & get another one from this selected list for free." Meaning you must choose/select all your buy/free titles from the list NOT buy from the main page & select the free title from the list. :)
Basically all you need to do is just open the list & tick those title boxes you want to buy & add them into the cart. :)
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Paul,
thanks. got a little confused. hehehe :D
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No worry....it happens. ;) Hope we all can take full advantage of the offer before it ends.
So far, there's no mentioning the promo expiry except "A limited time offer". :)
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New Free Blu-ray Offer From Sony
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Sony/New_Free_Blu-ray_Offer_From_Sony/1158 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Sony/New_Free_Blu-ray_Offer_From_Sony/1158)
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Philips/Lite-On launch first Blu-Ray ROM
http://www.fudzilla.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4186&Itemid=1 (http://www.fudzilla.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4186&Itemid=1)
The DH-4O1S should hit the shelves sometime in December, and you can check the prices and find a retailer on Geizhals.eu. Our readers in the U.S. can expect a $199 price tag, and, for once, Europeans aren't the ones getting ripped off.
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HD DVD 51GB is now official:
Toshiba's been demoing a triple-layer hybrid HD DVD / DVD system for a couple years now, but it's been all unofficial until today, when the DVD Forum steering committee voted to approve the spec as part of the official HD DVD standard. The third 15GB layer bumps the total capacity of HD DVD up to 51GB, matching Blu-ray's 50GB disks. Of course, we wouldn't expect to see a flood of content on the new disks anytime soon, what with all those shiny new double-layer players getting sold right now, but it's interesting to see HD DVD step up in the one area Blu-ray was clearly superior. The stalemate continues!
http://www.engadget.com/2007/11/15/dvd-forum-approves-51gb-triple-layer-hd-dvd-spec/
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February 5th
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February 5th
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Fox/MGM One Day Sale
If you were looking for a bargain on those Fox or MGM Blu-ray titles you might have missed, Amazon has these titles at 55% off. Priced at a consumer-friendly $17.99, this is definitely the time complete your library of Fox/MGM Blu-rays. The sale only lasts for one day, so make those purchases now before time runs out.
Amazon One Day Sale (http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html/ref=amb_link_5883802_2?ie=UTF8&docId=1000165591&tag=bluraynews-20)
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Disney voted and approved the 51GB Triple Layer DVD:
http://www.xbitlabs.com/news/multimedia/display/20071119150942_Disney_Votes_for_51GB_HD_DVD_Media_Approval.html
Am i smelling disney movies as early as 2nd quarter of next year? Since they were one of the co-author of the HDI in HD DVD, i won't be suprise to finally see them in HD territory. Since their main reason for leaving HD DVD was the lack of space. But with disney casting their vote, its a matter of time now to finally see there movies in HD DVD camp.
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Wow! :o Thanks for the heads-up Mouldingo ;)
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First Look: 'Zodiac' HD DVD Box Art
Can't wait for David Fincher's 'Zodiac' to hit high-def? We've got a first look at the HD DVD's way-cool box cover art. As previously reported, DreamWorks will bring the acclaimed serial killer procedural to HD DVD on January 8, 2008 in a highly-anticipated new Director's Cut, featuring never-before-seen additional footage.
The two disc HD DVD release is set to include multiple audio commentaries with Fincher and cast & crew, the "Zodiac Deciphered" documentary, six additional making-of featurettes, multiple "Background Files" profiling real-life serial killers, and a gallery of trailers and TV spots.
Now Paramount has revealed the HD DVD's box cover, which -- in a break from tradition -- features no photos of the film's stars, but instead a stark image inspired by one of the real-life Zodiac Killer's infamous letters to the media in mid-1969:
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4341/original.jpeg)
January 8, 2008
Source (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/DreamWorks/High-Def_Disc_Packaging/First_Look:_Zodiac_HD_DVD_Box_Art/1175)
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3:10 To Yuma (2007) Specs
Lionsgate Home Entertainment have announced the US Region A Blu-ray Disc release of 3:10 To Yuma on 8th January 2008 priced at $39.99 SRP. Based on a short story from Elmore Leonard and directed by James Mangold, 3:10 To Yuma is the story of a small time rancher who agrees to escort a captured outlaw to a neighboring town in order put him on the train to prison. Russell Crowe, Christian Bale, Ben Foster and Peter Fonda star.
Arriving day-and-date the Blu-ray Disc features all of the extras from the DVD release alongside several exclusives. Features include:
-1080P Widescreen
-English PCM 7.1 Surround (Uncompressed) :o
-English and Spanish subtitles
-“Destination Yuma” – a “making of” documentary
-“Inside Yuma” – a feature length “picture in picture” interactive exploration of the creation of the film (BD Exclusive)
-“3:10 to Score” featurette – Composer Marco Beltrami shows how he achieved some of the unique sounds in the film (BD Exclusive)
-“An Epic Explored” featurette - Director James Mangold explains the mythological qualities of the film
-“The Guns of Yuma” featurette – a look at the authentic weapons used in the film (BD Exclusive)
-“Outlaws, Gangs & Posses” featurette – a look at some of the most famous cowboys of the West
-“Sea to Shining Sea” featurette – How the railroad changed America (BD Exclusive)
-Historical Timeline of the West – a feature length navigation through some of the most significant historical events in the evolving history of the West (BD Exclusive)
-“A Conversation with Elmore Leonard” (BD Exclusive)
-Deleted scenes
(http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y26/Bat_Zignal/310-2.jpg)
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English PCM 7.1 Surround (Uncompressed)? :o
It's in my "MUST BUY" list!! ;D
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Disney voted and approved the 51GB Triple Layer DVD:
http://www.xbitlabs.com/news/multimedia/display/20071119150942_Disney_Votes_for_51GB_HD_DVD_Media_Approval.html
Am i smelling disney movies as early as 2nd quarter of next year? Since they were one of the co-author of the HDI in HD DVD, i won't be suprise to finally see them in HD territory. Since their main reason for leaving HD DVD was the lack of space. But with disney casting their vote, its a matter of time now to finally see there movies in HD DVD camp.
if they do, that could very well be the death blow HD needs... or it will just extend the format war another few years...
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English PCM 7.1 Surround (Uncompressed)? :o
It's in my "MUST BUY" list!! ;D
I can smell PCM hehehehe ;D ;D
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Harry Potter HD DVD to Feature First-Ever "Community Screening" Function
Promising to bring high-def interconnectivity to a new level, Warner will introduce a first-ever group screening function with its upcoming HD DVD release of 'Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.'
Dubbed "Live Community Screening," the new feature will allow multiple owners of the 'Order of the Phoenix' HD DVD to simultaneously watch the film via their own individual web-connected players. Playback is controlled by a single "host" user, who initiates the invitation-only viewing, and can control the film by pausing and playing the feature on everyone else's machines. Even more cutting edge, Warner says participants will also be able to text between their remote devices, creating a virtual "live chat" environment while they watch.
Introducing this new feature with little fanfare (it wasn't even mentioned in the disc's press announcement), Warner revealed the complete details of 'Harry Potter's exclusive HD DVD content via this just-launched 'Harry Potter' product page at the newly redesigned thelookandsoundofperfect.com, the official consumer website of the HD DVD Promotions Group.
Set for release on December 11, other content exclusive to the HD DVD of 'Order of the Phoenix' includes a "Behind the Screen: Focus Points" picture-in-picture video commentary, additional downloadable material including screensavers and ringtones, plus a custom bookmarking function.
Although Warner is also debuting a Blu-ray version of 'Order of the Phoenix' day-and-date with the HD DVD, that disc will not include any web-enabled content.
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Exclusive_HD_Content/Harry_Potter_HD_DVD_to_Feature_First-Ever_Community_Screening_Function/1188 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Exclusive_HD_Content/Harry_Potter_HD_DVD_to_Feature_First-Ever_Community_Screening_Function/1188)
Cool feature!!
Any PinoyDVD members who want's to try this once they get their copies? PM me pls. Thanks.
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Wow, innovative news INDEED on the HD-DVD camp via the latest HP release.
HERE'S (http://www.allthingshidef.com/ME2/dirmod.asp?sid=3C644C50F0DA47FDA581C56C5FDF5FC7&nm=Hi%2DDef+News&type=news&mod=News&mid=9A02E3B96F2A415ABC72CB5F516B4C10&tier=3&nid=B1E3F9AC0D2C4923A4F96B28794AED21)a similar release on this new Live Community screening option. :)
(http://www.allthingshidef.com/Media/News/harry_potter_phoenix.jpg)
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Hehe... just to counter-balance things on the Bluray side... here are some fresh statements from Sony CEO Howard Stringer > NEWS (http://www.allthingshidef.com/ME2/dirmod.asp?sid=3C644C50F0DA47FDA581C56C5FDF5FC7&nm=Hi%2DDef+News&type=news&mod=News&mid=9A02E3B96F2A415ABC72CB5F516B4C10&tier=3&nid=096FCA27B2CF4572936B194C75908771)
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Perfect Blue on BD, Appleseed Sequel on BD & HD DVD
Warner Home Video has announced that it will release Appleseed: Ex Machina, the sequel to the movie based on Masamune Shirow's cybertech manga, on Blu-ray Disc and hybrid DVD/HD DVD formats on March 11 in North America. Both versions will retail for US$34.98.
Source (http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2007-11-26/perfect-blue-on-bd-appleseed-sequel-on-bd-and-hd-dvd)
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Blu-ray outsells HD-DVD format in Europe
LONDON (Reuters) - High definition movie DVDs in the Blu-ray format have outsold the rival HD DVD standard in Europe this year, breaking the 1 million barrier and constituting 73 percent of all HD movie discs sold.
Citing industry sales data, the Blu-ray disc association said in a statement on Tuesday Blu-ray movie disc sales had topped 1 million units and when counting Blu-ray gaming discs the total number produced for sale in Europe exceeded 21 million units.
Sony's PlayStation 3 game console includes a Blu-ray Disc drive.
Hollywood and electronics manufacturers are hoping that new high-definition DVDs, with better picture quality and more capacity, will revive the slowing home DVD market.
But the launch of the next-generation DVD players has been complicated by the fact that there are two competing technologies available, Blu-ray and HD DVD.
HD DVD was developed by Toshiba Corp (6502.T: Quote, Profile, Research) while Sony Corp (6758.T: Quote, Profile, Research) backs the Blu-ray standard.
Of the high definition movie discs bought by consumers so far this year in Europe, 73 percent were in the Blu-ray Disc format and 27 percent were HD DVD, according to sales data provided by Media Control Gfk International.
Blu-ray said the best selling titles were 300, Spider-Man 3 and Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End.
Home Media Research said in October Blu-ray Disc DVD titles had outsold rival HD-DVD titles by almost two-to-one in the first nine months of the year in the United States.
Reuters (http://www.reuters.com/article/technology-media-telco-SP/idUSL2738108420071127)
Blu-ray Owns 73% of HD Market in Europe
...A few days ago, the BDA also announced that Blu-ray owned 97% of the HD recorder market in Japan. High definition recorders are more popular in Japan where broadcast TV is of a much higher quality. With only 3% of the market, HD DVD recorders have failed to make any penetration into Japanese homes.
Full Article (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=701)
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DRAGON WARS [January 8th]
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March 11th
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January 7th - Germany
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Feb 1st True Hd 5.1 audio - Japan
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Onkyo, priced out of HD DVD, discontinues its HD805 HD DVD player
Mouldingo, probbaly you can post these intersting hardware news in the "HD DVD & Blu-ray Players" section under the The War Begins thread. :)
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Direct-to-Video 'Justice League' to Hit Blu-ray, HD DVD
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4461/original.jpeg)
Warner Premiere and DC Comics will debut their first next-gen title this February, with the release of 'Justice League: The New Frontier' on Blu-ray and HD DVD.
Featuring the voices of Neil Patrick Harris, David Boreanaz and Brooke Shields, the direct-to-video 'Justice League: The New Frontier' brings together Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman and a host of other DC Comics heroes in a tale that the explores the origins of legendary superteam. Marking the first high-definition release from DC Comics, Warner Premiere will debut 'The New Frontier' on Blu-ray and HD DVD day-and-date with the standard DVD on February 26, 2008.
Source (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Direct-to-High-Def_Premieres/Disc_Announcements/Direct-to-Video_Justice_League_to_Hit_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD/1214)
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'Elizabeth: The Golden Age' to Reign on HD DVD
Queen Elizabeth I will return to high def this February, when Universal releases the sequel 'Elizabeth: The Golden Age' on HD DVD/DVD combo disc.
The second in a planned trilogy of historical epics, 'The Golden Age' sees Cate Blanchett returning to the role that first earned her a Best Actress Oscar nomination (1998's 'Elizabeth,' which Universal released on HD DVD last September). Following a $50 million worldwide box office run this fall, Universal will debut the film on HD DVD/DVD combo disc February 5, 2008, day-and-date with the standard-def DVD.
Source (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Disc_Announcements/Elizabeth:_The_Golden_Age_to_Reign_on__HD_DVD/1212)
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BD Increases Lead Over HD-DVD During Black Friday Week...Leads Approx 73-27
http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/content_display/home_entertainment/video/e3i8d5ddf2904a0aae38936c0078ef4de4a
"The high-definition format war tilted even more heavily in favor of Blu-ray Disc despite a rash of inexpensive HD DVD players sold through Wal-Mart and other discount retailers in recent weeks. Nielsen VideoScan data for the week shows 72.6% of high-definition discs purchased by consumers were Blu-ray and just 27.4% were HD DVD. HD DVD players have been selling for as little as $98, one-fourth the lowest street price for a Blu-ray player."
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VideoScan: Blu-ray Commands Thanksgiving Week Disc Sales
Black Friday? More like Blu Friday. According to Nielsen VideoScan, US sales of Blu-ray discs swelled to a nearly 3:1 lead over HD DVD in the first official week of the holiday shopping season.
According to the just-issued VideoScan numbers, 72.6% of all high-definition discs purchased last week were Blu-ray, versus just 27.4% for HD DVD.
Although one week's data does not necessarily indicate a trend, Blu-ray's stronger-than-ever disc sales lead for the week would seem to suggest that even record-low HD DVD player prices (and record-high HD DVD player sales) may not be enough to balance out the "PS3 Effect" on Blu-ray sales -- especially amidst a recent resurgence in sales for the game console.
Of course, there are other factors at work here as well. As HD DVD supporters have been quick to point out, last week saw a total of ten major studio Blu-ray releases (including 'Live Free or Die Hard' and 'Hairspray', versus only two on HD DVD (including 'Star Trek: The Original Series - Season One').
Others have questioned the reliability of VideoScan's numbers, pointing out that the research firm's point of purchase data does not include Wal-Mart, which generally accounts for 40% of all DVD sales.
Only time will tell whether Blu-ray's stronger-than-ever weekly lead is a trend in the making or simply an anomaly, but here's betting weekly disc sales numbers will be watched more closely than ever in the coming weeks. Stay tuned...
Source (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Industry_Trends/Disc_Sales/VideoScan:_Blu-ray_Commands_Thanksgiving_Week_Disc_Sales/1218)
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'30 Days of Night' to Bite Into Blu-ray
In an early alert to retailers, Sony has revealed it plans to bring the hit vampire thriller '30 Days of Night' to Blu-ray this February.
Based on the popular graphic novel of the same name, '30 Days of Night' scared up nearly $50 million at the domestic box office this past October. Although Sony has yet to issue an official press release, the studio has informed retailers that the Josh Hartnett-starrer will sink its teeth into both Blu-ray and standard-def DVD on February 19, 2008.
Source (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Sony/Disc_Announcements/30_Days_of_Night_to_Bite_Into_Blu-ray/1206)
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is it true that there are already pirated blue ray films in the market? my friend who works in china saw some copies on sale from their friendly video shop in his place. dunno how much is it selling though. ang bilis talaga ng chinese mag pirata ;D
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HD DVD Camp: Web-Enabled Features a Hit With Consumers
The HD DVD Promotions Group is reporting significant online usage of its exclusive web-connected features on such top titles as 'Transformers' and 'Heroes: Season One.'
In a new press release issued Tuesday, the group said more than 80,000 unique users had accessed the web-enabled features on DreamWorks' HD DVD release of 'Transformers,' with 31% returning as additional content became available.
The HD DVD Promotions Group is reporting significant online usage of its exclusive web-connected features on such top titles as 'Transformers' and 'Heroes: Season One.'
In a new press release issued Tuesday, the group said more than 80,000 unique users had accessed the web-enabled features on DreamWorks' HD DVD release of 'Transformers,' with 31% returning as additional content became available.
Source (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Industry_Trends/Web-Enabled_Features/HD_DVD_Camp:_Web-Enabled_Features_a_Hit_With_Consumers/1234)
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Jan 1st
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Feb 2nd
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Michael Bay Accuses HD DVD-Backing Microsoft of "Dirty Tricks"
When Michael Bay speaks, the world listens. The 'Transformers' director is talking out again about the high-def format war, and is again generating lots of press.
As countless web sites have reported over the last 24 hours, Bay's latest remarks came in response to question posed to him on his own official web site.
Asked why his mega hit 'Transformers' was released on HD DVD only (and not on Blu-ray), the director pointed the blame squarely at Microsoft, saying that the software giant has bankrolled HD DVD in an effort to extend the high-def format war until the software giant can perfect digital downloads.
"Microsoft wants both formats to fail so they can be heroes and make the world move to digital downloads" said Bay. "That is the dirty secret no one is talking about. That is why Microsoft is handing out $100 million dollar checks to studios just embrace the HD DVD and not the leading, and superior Blu Ray."
Bay's accusations echo earlier comments made by Fox Home Entertainment worldwide president Mike Dunn, who was quoted by The Hollywood Reporter at an October Blu-ray press event as blasting "the orchestrated campaigns of confusion and anti-consumerism fueled by an 800-pound gorilla that would prefer to force us all into the practice of paying tolls for the right to exchange information and enjoy entertainment."
At the time, Microsoft Consumer Media Technology Group director Kevin Collins defended the company’s stance, calling Dunn's accusations "baseless."
As we've previously reported, Bay caused a firestorm back in September when he briefly posted a message to his site saying that he was reconsidering doing a 'Transformers' sequel after learning that Paramount would not be issuing a Blu-ray edition of his mega-hit film. The director later recanted those remarks, but has since reiterated his pro-Blu-ray stance.
source (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Michael_Bay/Microsoft/Michael_Bay_Accuses_HD_DVD-Backing_Microsoft_of_Dirty_Tricks/1235)
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Michael Bay: "Blu-ray Suits My Films Better"
Responding to an attempted mutiny by some of his loyal fans, director Michael Bay commented that ultimately, Blu-ray is the logical choice for his films. "I know what the final product should look like - Blu-ray suits my films better." Bay is just one of a number of directors and producers who have become outspoken with regards to supporting Blu-ray in the format war.
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=728
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Title Announcements at High-Def 2.0
Yesterday at High-Def 2.0, studios announced some upcoming Blu-ray titles. Sony Pictures will bring 'Dogma' to Blu-ray on Februrary 12th and 'Run Lola Run' a week later on February 19th. 'The Guns of the Navarone' and 'A Passage to India' will come soon after, with 'Lawrence of Arabia' and 'Bridge on the River Kwai' later in the year.
Fox announced that they will bring upcoming theatrical titles like 'Juno', 'Hitman', 'Horton Hears a Who' and 'Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium' to Blu-ray, along with many new catalog titles.
Disney confirmed that both 'Finding Nemo' and 'The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe', both due for Spring release, will feature PiP video.
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=729
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Blu-ray Owns 95% of Australian HD Market
On the heels of Video Ezy announcing they would only support Blu-ray, GfK (in association with Sony) has released a report stating that Blu-ray owned 95.2% of the high definition market in Australia for October. Blu-ray hardware (including the PS3) sold 26-to-1 compared to its rival HD DVD. Additionally, software sales were 18,000 units sold for Blu-ray compared to only 2,000 for HD DVD.
Carl Rose, Managing Director of Sony Australia commented, "This report quite clearly depicts the current state of play in the High Definition format market in Australian homes. Across the key areas of high definition entertainment, from hardware to content, these figures show that Blu-ray is distinctly the format of choice for consumers. Coming into Christmas we can only predict that adoption will continue to increase thanks to the backing of the format by the greatest number of electronics hardware manufacturers and movie and game development studios"
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=724
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Michael Bay: "Blu-ray Suits My Films Better"
Responding to an attempted mutiny by some of his loyal fans, director Michael Bay commented that ultimately, Blu-ray is the logical choice for his films. "I know what the final product should look like - Blu-ray suits my films better."
Here we go again. Many are sick of hearing that idiot Bay lamenting the BD stuff. All his movies are nothing but Special Effects and explosions. He needs to give a valid reason why Blu-Ray is better then HD DVD. If he said space then I can't wait until he finds out about the 51 gig HD DVD discs. :D
Blu-ray Owns 95% of Australian HD Market
On the heels of Video Ezy announcing they would only support Blu-ray, GfK (in association with Sony) has released a report stating that Blu-ray owned 95.2% of the high definition market in Australia for October. Blu-ray hardware (including the PS3) sold 26-to-1 compared to its rival HD DVD. Additionally, software sales were 18,000 units sold for Blu-ray compared to only 2,000 for HD DVD.
Australia is a very very tiny market...nothing to brag about esp 95% of teh sellers carry Blu-ray only...so we can't blame them. :D
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Here we go again. Many are sick of hearing that idiot Bay lamenting the BD stuff. All his movies are nothing but Special Effects and explosions. He needs to give a valid reason why Blu-Ray is better then HD DVD. If he said space then I can't wait until he finds out about the 51 gig HD DVD discs. :D
Australia is a very very tiny market...nothing to brag about esp 95% of teh sellers carry Blu-ray only...so we can't blame them. :D
Formar war is good. It keeps the prices down, whether hardware or software. But I dont give a damn about this kind of news anymore. Just watch and enjoy HD movies. 8)
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If Michael Bay talks more I will use his transformers hddvd as a coaster or frisbee nalang ;D hehe..But good thing nga there is a war, its getting more affordable (but I really think its hard to unseat dvds)..I wish they have buy one take two movies ;D
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Formar war is good. It keeps the prices down, whether hardware or software. But I dont give a d**n about this kind of news anymore. Just watch and enjoy HD movies. 8)
Yup, we are format neutral..so should not worrying too much....just enjoy our HD movies. ;)
If Michael Bay talks more I will use his transformers hddvd as a coaster or frisbee nalang ;D
Yeah, Bay talks to much...I have give away na my Transformers DVD "transforming packaging" to my relative. Also, I've cancelled my Transformers HD DVD order... ::)
Eh...Moks007, if you don't like it, you can donate it to me na lang... LOL ;D
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Yup, we are format neutral..so should not worrying too much....just enjoy our HD movies. ;)
Yeah, Bay talks to much...I have give away na my Transformers DVD "transforming packaging" to my relative. Also, I've cancelled my Transformers HD DVD order... ::)
Eh...Moks007, if you don't like it, you can donate it to me na lang... LOL ;D
I'm still waiting for Transformers on Blu-ray.. ;D ;D ;D
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'300' Takes Top Honors at High-Def Disc Awards
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3313/original.jpeg)
Warner's '300' conquered the first-ever High-Def Disc Awards, snagging dual-format honors for "High-Def Title of the Year" and "Best Bonus Features."
Presented by Home Media Magazine in cooperation with The Hollywood Reporter and the Entertainment Merchants Association, the High-Def Disc Awards were the capper of High-Def 2.0, a one-day conference held Dec. 4 in Los Angeles. Winners were determined by a panel of critics and bloggers across eleven categories, with eligibility dating back to the inception of each high-def format (HD DVD in April 2006, and Blu-ray Disc in June 2006).
'300' took top honors as the only high-def title to win in more than one category, as well as the sole honoree to have been released on both formats. The Blu-ray version of the blockbuster sword-and-sandals epic earned the "Title of the Year" trophy for overall presentation, while the HD DVD snared the "Best Bonus Features" award for the disc's exclusive In-Movie Experience track, which featured a blue-screen version of the film simultaneously with the main feature, allowing fans to compare the film's before-and-after CGI effects.
Awards were also handed out to titles on both formats for "Best Live-Action Title," with Sony's 'Casino Royale' snagging the prize for Blu-ray, and Universal's cop comedy 'Hot Fuzz' winning for HD DVD.
Other notable honors went to 'Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest' (Blu-ray) for "Best Picture Quality" and 'Transformers' (HD DVD) for "Best Audio Quality," while Sony's 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' was named "Best Multi-Disc Set."
For a complete list of winners, click here (http://www.homemediamagazine.com/news/html/breaking_article.cfm?sec_id=2&&article_ID=11663).
High-Def Award Winners:
High Def Title of the Year: 300 (Blu-ray), Warner Home Video
Best Live-Action Blu-ray: Casino Royale, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Best Live-Action HD DVD: Hot Fuzz, Universal Studios Home Entertainment
Best Animated: Ratatouille (Blu-ray), Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Best Picture Quality: Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest (Blu-ray), Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Best Audio Quality: Transformers (HD DVD), Paramount Home Entertainment
Best Bonus Feature: 300 (HD DVD), Bluescreen Picture-in-Picture, Warner Home Video
Most Innovative Use of New Technology: HD DVD U-Shop feature (Internet purchase ability), Universal Studios Home Entertainment
Best Long-Form Music Video: Dave Mathews & Tim Reynolds: Live at Radio City Music Hall (Blu-ray), Sony BMG
Best Catalog: Kingdom of Heaven: Director’s Cut, 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment
Best Collection/Multidisc Set: Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
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Awesome! No surprises on that award-winning line-up! ;)
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Studios: Slow & Steady Wins Race to Format Adoption
A studio panel said adoption of high-definition packaged media remains on track, despite acknowledging the miscommunication between studios and consumer electronics manufacturers.
The panel was a part of High-Def 2.0 Dec. 4 in Los Angeles. Home Media Magazine produced the conference in cooperation with The Hollywood Reporter and Entertainment Merchants Association.
Don Eklund, EVP, advanced technologies, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, said studios, together with CE manufacturers, felt a need to quickly unveil HD packaged media as a replacement to softening DVD sales.
He said the pressure, compounded by rival format HD DVD’s drastic downward pricing on its players, has resulted in a commodity mentality directed at a largely indifferent consumer.
Eklund was referring to the $99 Toshiba players unveiled over a weekend last month by Wal-Mart, Amazon and Circuit City.
“I’m disappointed on behalf of CE companies that eliminated a reasonable amount of profitability out of the equation too early,” Eklund said.
The executive was among a predominantly pro-Blu-ray slate of speakers at the conference. Others studio panelists included Lori MacPherson, GM, North America, Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment; Simon Swart, EVP and GM, North America, 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment; Miguel Casillas, SVP, DVD production, Lionsgate; Andy Parsons, SVP, industrial solutions business group, Pioneer Electronics; and Eisuke Tsuyuzaki, with Panasonic, among others.
Studio representatives backing HD DVD did not attend.
MacPherson said 2007 has been a pivotal year for Blu-ray with increased momentum in hardware and software offerings, which she said will result in stronger spending as the holidays approach.
“We feel like Blu-ray is doing exceptionally well,” she said.
Panelists at a separate session on 1080p resolution said the ongoing Blu-ray Disc Mall Tour coupled with retail participation and increased proliferation of HDTV sales, will help the format and HD media slowly turn the corner from early adopter to mass adoption in 2008.
Parsons, who is also marketing director of the Blu-ray Disc Association, said the evolution of HD packaged media takes time and has been progressing faster than DVD in its infancy.
“It takes time to get the word out,” Parsons said. “It takes time to get successful.”
Sony’s Eklund said the key to convincing consumers about the merits of HD packaged media was exposing them to the format directly.
“If the retail sales force believes in [Blu-ray], that is an important part of [consumer adoption],” he said.
Fox’s Swart said sales of the Sony PlayStation 3 game system with a Blu-ray drive continue to drive the format’s movie sales. He said 75% of Blu-ray movie sales are attributable to the PS3.
Lionsgate’s Casillas said the mini-major Jan. 1 will for the first time distribute a networked (Web-enabled) title, War, starring Jet-Li.
Futility of Format War
As with most political, societal and economic issues, there is no shortage of Internet bloggers weighing in on the format war.
Bloggers for TheDigitalBits.com, DVDReview.com and HighDefDigest.com offered their thoughts during a panel discussion.
“For the casual consumers, high def isn’t even on their radar,” said Bill Hunt of The Digital Bits. “Most of those people are put off by the format war.”
Guido Henkel, with DVD Review said the studios only have themselves to blame for not meeting early high-def expectations.
He said that because studios have released several versions of the same movie on DVD, consumers have less incentive to pick up the HD DVD or Blu-ray version of the same film they may already own. Henkel said studios are devaluing their product by making it available for digital downloading.
“High-def adoption will happen gradually,” he said. “It’s unreasonable to expect people to just suddenly buy millions of players.”
Hunt agreed, saying, “So many people have these DVD collections and they’re like, ‘you know, I didn’t even watch half of this stuff.’”
The bloggers agreed that if the studios were to line up behind one format, consumer acceptance of high-def would be faster.
Bracke suggested studios “play hardball” and stop releasing DVDs in conjunction with a high-def release. Henkel said studios should lower the software price of high-def to meet the prices of DVD.
They said the studios should divert dollars way from beating the other side and toward educating consumers.
“I’d argue that [consumers are] deciding on neither of them,” Hunt said.
Sound Can Be Perfect
Experts on high-def audio discussed their passion for sound and representatives from leading PC companies discussed the high-def future for the home computer.
The audio experts discussed how difficult it can be to fit new, improved audio tracks on high-def discs.
“It just takes up an incredible amount of space,” said Dave Bales, VP of AV marketing and product planning for Pioneer Electronics.
The new tracks — True HD, Dolby Digital Plus and DTS-HD — deliver “lossless” audio to consumers, which experts say is as close to the master recording as possible. In addition, these less compressed audio files require increased disc capacity.
“You kind of get into voodoo at one point [trying to fit higher bit-rate soundtracks on high-def],” said Adam Sosinsky, VP of new technology for Sony BMG.
Sam Erickson with 44 Pictures, who produced and directed Dave Matthews & Tim Reynolds – Live at Radio City for Blu-ray, said HD audio exposes consumers to new listening experience.
“It’s almost better than being [at the concert],” Erickson said.
The panelists said HD audio has the ability to make music a less-passive experience in a world dominated by portable MP3 players and ring tones.
“Music used to be the thing you’d actually sit down and listen to,” said Michael Giacchino, composer for the TV series “Lost” and Disney/Pixar’s Ratatouille. “Now, you take it with you wherever you go.”
Panelists said technological improvements have resulted in HD audio becoming a sensation that can be felt as much as heard.
“Now we’ve got technology that brings it out,” Bales said. “The consumer will catch on. He or she has no choice.”
source (http://www.homemediamagazine.com/news/html/breaking_article.cfm?sec_id=2&&article_ID=11669)
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(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4526/original.jpeg)
December 26
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Lionsgate, Sony to bow first BD-Live titles in January
Web-enabled Blu-ray players still not confirmed
DEC. 5 | LOS ANGELES—Lionsgate and Sony Pictures Home Entertainment will bring out the first Web-enabled Blu-ray Disc titles in January, even though hardware that can fully playback BD-Live interactivity has not yet been confirmed.
War and Saw IV, streeting from Lionsgate on Blu-ray and standard-definition DVD on Jan. 1 and Jan. 22, respectively, will carry networking features, confirmed the studio’s senior VP of DVD production, Miguel Casillas, during a panel discussion at Tuesday’s High-Def 2.0 conference here.
Casillas noted that with Saw IV, users will be able to share content through their Blu-ray players’ Web connections, but he did not elaborate further. He did not describe War’s interactivity in detail.
Sony executive VP of advanced technologies Don Eklund declined to specify titles but said Web-enabled features will represent a major theme in the studio’s 2008 Blu-ray slate.
“We have an aggressive program underway to use network capabilities on our titles next year,” said Eklund.
War and Saw IV will likely become the first networked titles released for Blu-ray. Earlier this year, Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment announced Sleeping Beauty and National Treasure would boast this interactivity, but they are not expected until later in 2008.
An onslaught of Web-enabled Blu-ray titles could prove an important weapon in the format war, as the HD DVD camp has touted its own networking abilities as a key advantage over Blu-ray. As Web connection comes standard in all HD DVD players, a number of titles on that format already offer networking interactivity, including the industry’s first e-commerce feature on Universal Studios Home Entertainment’s HD DVD release of Evan Almighty.
Studio executive panelists as well as manufacturers speaking at the conference acknowledged the current absence of BD-Live players. Yet, Eklund said Sony and other studios anticipate that the PlayStation 3 will soon become one such player, likely through firmware updates, as the console already allows users to download game-related content.
Eklund added that firmware should be released for the PS3 this month that would upgrade the console to fully playback picture-in-picture interactivity, another type of high-def bonus feature that is popular in HD DVD titles but not yet available with Blu-ray titles due to few compatible players.
“It’s the studio’s assumption” that PS3 will be a BD-Live player, said Eklund.
Overall, Blu-ray will remain an important part of the studio’s product pipeline in 2008.
20th Century Fox Home Entertainment and Disney will increase the number of releases in the format next year.
“We’re going to be extending our day-and-date releases and finding appropriate catalog titles,” said Simon Swart, executive VP and general manager North America at Fox. He added that the studio wants “to see what this format can do that really blows DVD away.”
Disney general manager North America Lori MacPherson added, “We want to keep offering a step beyond what people have seen.”
http://www.videobusiness.com/index.asp?layout=article&articleid=CA6509942&industryid=47211
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'Run Lola Run' Races to Blu-ray This February
Blu-ray fans will get a shot of high-def adrenaline this February, when releases the influential action hit 'Run Lola Run.'
Starring Franka Potente as a girl who must find $100,000 in only twenty minutes to save her boyfriend's life, 'Run Lola Run's hyper-kinetic visual style and whiplash-fast pacing turned it into a box office sensation in its native Germany. Acclaim for the Tom Tykwer-helmed thrill ride led to crossover hit status in the United States, even helping to inspire the TV series 'Alias.'
Source (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Sony/Disc_Announcements/Run_Lola_Run_Races_to_Blu-ray_This_February/1232)
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Business Week: Blu-ray Is Winning
The publication says it could get Warner endorsement
Washington, D.C. (December 7, 2007) -- Blu-ray has emerged as the clear front runner in the high-def DVD format war against HD DVD.
That's according to an analysis published today by Business Week magazine.
The publication, which has considerable influence in the financial world, writes that Blu-ray still holds the greatest support among Hollywood studios. Four major studios now back Blu-ray exclusively while only two support HD DVD exclusively.
Consequently, Business Week says, the Sony-backed Blu-ray disc has outsold HD DVD by roughly 2-1 for the past year.
Additionally, the publication reports that Sony may be close to landing an exclusive endorsement from Warner Bros., which until now has released films in both formats.
"The rumor is that Warner is coming aboard soon," Michael Burns, vice-chairman of Blu-ray supporter Lionsgate, tells Business Week. "That will make it awfully tough for HD DVD to stay in this game."
Business Week added that "either side could (win the Warner endorsement)...but the Sony group has suddenly emerged as the front runner."
"Persuading it (Warner) to sign an exclusive deal would give the Sony crowd about 70% of DVD market share. That could prompt the other studios to abandon HD DVD," the publication writes.
Business Week notes that if Warner were to join HD DVD, the format war would be stalemated.
"That could create mass consumer confusion and potentially strangle a new technology that the studios hope will give a lift to flagging DVD sales. That's exactly why Warner has long pushed for a single format," it said.
http://www.tvpredictions.com/business120707.htm
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Next-Gen DVDs: Advantage, Sony
Sony-led backers of Blu-ray seem to have pulled ahead of rivals in the race for a single high-def DVD standard
by Ronald Grover and Cliff Edwards
It's a fight with more plot twists and intrigue than a Hollywood thriller. For two years now, rival camps have been battling over which new DVD format will prevail: Blu-ray, which is backed by Sony (SNE) and a consortium of 170 other companies, or HD DVD, which is being championed by Toshiba (TOSBF), Microsoft (MSFT), and others. Both technologies promise crisper video that looks better on the new generation of flat-panel, high-definition TVs. And the winner stands to control a lucrative new market worth billions. Each side has been competing to win the backing of the major movie studios. Only Warner Bros. (TWX), which currently uses both formats, is still playing hard to get.
Now, with the Jan. 7 International Consumer Electronics Show fast approaching, Sony and Toshiba are keen to announce they have won over Hollywood's last holdout. In the meantime, they are falling over themselves to woo Warner. While either side could prevail, the Sony group has suddenly emerged as the front-runner.
Why? Because despite a setback this summer when the HD DVD companies signed up Paramount Pictures (VIA) and DreamWorks Animation (DWA), the Blu-ray forces have still lined up more studios than the HD DVD side. Plus this year, the Sony team has sold more than twice as many discs. "The rumor is that Warner is coming aboard soon," says Michael Burns, vice-chairman of studio Lionsgate (LGF), which makes its movies available on the Sony-backed format. "That will make it awfully tough for HD DVD to stay in this game." (Sony declined to comment, and Toshiba only would say it is "in regular contact with the studios.")
From the beginning, the two camps' overarching strategy has been the same: getting access to as many movies as possible. It isn't hard to see why. Consumers will buy the new technology only if they believe most of the films they want will be available.
Right now the Blu-ray team has enough studios on board—among them Disney (DIS), Fox (NWS), and, of course, Sony—to account for about 49% of current DVD market share. Warner is a prolific film factory, releasing as many as 30 pictures a year, including those produced by sister studio New Line Cinema. Persuading it to sign an exclusive deal would give the Sony crowd about 70% of DVD market share. That could prompt the other studios to abandon HD DVD.
On the other hand, if Toshiba were to win Warner's hand, the two forces would divide the market between them. That could create mass consumer confusion and potentially strangle a new technology that the studios hope will give a lift to flagging DVD sales. That's exactly why Warner has long pushed for a single format.
WOOING WARNER
The battle has heated up since HD DVD got Paramount and DreamWorks Animation. Both sides have been beating a path to Warner's Burbank (Calif.) doorstep. Yoshihide Fujii, the head of Toshiba's HD DVD business in Japan, has made three trips to the U.S. since the summer, say those with knowledge of the situation. And while Andrew House, Sony's chief marketing officer, has been pressing the Blu-ray case, the stakes are sufficiently high that Sony CEO Howard Stringer has been making personal appeals to Richard Parsons and Jeffrey Bewkes, the two top executives at Warner parent Time Warner (TWX).
Toshiba is pressing the case that because its technology is cheaper, it will more quickly become a mass-market product. According to the DVD Release Report, an industry newsletter, the suggested retail price of an HD DVD is $31.74, nearly $2 less than Blu-ray's suggested price. (Retailers traditionally cut the price to less than $29.) Toshiba also has been cutting the price of its players, slashing its entry-level machine to $299 earlier this year
It was price that prompted DreamWorks Animation and Paramount to throw in their lot with HD DVD earlier this summer. (Like Warner, Paramount had previously backed both formats.) "The game-changer for us was the hardware costs dramatically coming down to where it could succeed broadly for the consumer," says DreamWorks Animation CEO Jeffrey Katzenberg. "In addition, the software manufacturing costs in the future would be significantly lower than Blu-ray." Of course, it didn't hurt that Toshiba agreed to pay Paramount and DreamWorks Animation a combined $150 million in incentives, including money to license DreamWorks' Shrek character for marketing purposes.
The Blu-ray faction insists there is no burning reason for it to match HD DVD's prices. "We think Warner will respond to the fact that our greater number of titles gives us a greater likelihood of being the single standard," says Andy Parsons, who leads the Blu-ray lobbying effort. But another executive backing Blu-ray, who didn't want to be identified, expects the imminent arrival of a sub-$300 Blu-ray machine.
What's more, Hollywood insiders say the $150 million that the Toshiba group showered on Paramount and DreamWorks Animation radically changed the game. These people suggest the Blu-ray team is so determined to win that it will throw hundreds of millions of dollars of marketing support behind Blu-ray equipment if Warner gets on board.
Warner isn't talking, but people close to the situation say the studio is waiting to see which group sells more of the new-fangled DVD players this holiday season. "Warner wants one of the two sides to make a commitment to getting this format into as many hands as possible," says a studio executive with knowledge of its thinking.
So far Toshiba has eked out a lead. According to industry tracker Adams Media Research, by the end of this year as many as 578,000 U.S. households will own HD DVD players, compared with 370,000 that have Blu-ray players. Adams also estimates there are 300,000 more HD DVD players in circulation inside Microsoft Xbox game consoles. But that still pales in comparison to the estimated 4 million Blu-ray-equipped Sony PlayStation 3 consoles sold in the U.S.
The Blu-ray side has another advantage. Disney caters to families, who buy lots of older films for their kids. That could help the format build critical mass. "The Blu-ray customer is more likely to build a new library," says market researcher Richard Doherty. "Studios live for [that]."
That leaves one question. If the Sony camp wins Warner, will the other studios ditch HD DVD? They're not saying. But Dreamworks Animation and Paramount only signed on with the Toshiba side for 18 months. So then they could take the money and run.
Grover is Los Angeles bureau chief for BusinessWeek. Edwards is a correspondent in BusinessWeek's Silicon Valley bureau .
http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/07_51/b4063028294846.htm?chan=top+news_top+news+index_businessweek+exclusives (http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/07_51/b4063028294846.htm?chan=top+news_top+news+index_businessweek+exclusives)
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The Blu-ray side has another advantage. Disney caters to families, who buy lots of older films for their kids. That could help the format build critical mass. "The Blu-ray customer is more likely to build a new library," says market researcher Richard Doherty. "Studios live for [that]."
Mas kunti nga pagdating sa animations ang HD DVD. Also na pansin ko parang mas mabilis lumaki ang mga collection na blu kaysa red those neutrals who started this year, w/ all the BOGO going on.
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Black Friday Results... ;D ;D ;D
High-def player sales still just 10% of standard DVD
DisplaySearch: Discounting gave HD DVD two-thirds of next-gen holiday sales
DEC. 7 | High-def hardware achieved huge Black Friday gains, but still lags behind the sales pace of standard-definition DVD players.
HD DVD and Blu-ray Disc stand-alone players sold 57,000 units during the week ended Nov. 24, the day marking the official kick-off to the holiday season. That contrasts to the 600,000 units sold of standard-def DVD players, according to market analyst DisplaySearch.
DisplaySearch released these figures during a Black Friday Webinar on Friday.
HD DVD commanded the lion’s share of unit sales for stand-alone high-def disc players, scoring a 62% unit share; Blu-ray held 37%. Due to higher price points, Blu-ray hardware cornered 52% of the revenue; HD DVD, 47%.
Paul Erickson, director of DVD and HD DVD market research at DisplaySearch, said that HD DVD’s retail pricing, which on average was 50% cheaper than Blu-ray stand-alones, spurred its Black Friday sales for the format. The most popular high-def models were Toshiba’s HD-A3, which many retailers sold for $199, and the Sony and Samsung Blu-ray players and PS3 model that sold for $399.
Each format significantly hiked its sales from week directly preceding the Black Friday frame. HD DVD unit sales jumped 454%; Blu-ray, up 189%. In revenue, HD DVD was up 272%; Blu-ray, up 176%.
Due to strong promotion around its new $399 40GB model, PlayStation 3 sold between 160,000 and 170,000 units, DisplaySearch estimates.
HD DVD might have sold more units during the Black Friday period, but the Blu-ray Disc Assn. nevertheless said it hit a new milestone—2.7 million players sold since launch—over the period. The figure encompasses both Blu-ray-capable gaming devices and Blu-ray set-top players, but the Blu-rayA declined to break down sales.
The HD DVD camp earlier said its total sales of set-top players and gaming devices reached 750,000 units following widespread holiday retail sales, notably including $99-priced players at Wal-Mart and Best Buy.
The BDA last week also trumpeted its continuing lead in Blu-ray software sales, which in the weeks leading up to Black Friday had been outpacing HD DVD titles by a two-to-one ratio. During the Black Friday period, Blu-ray titles made up 72.6% of all high-def purchases, with HD DVD totaling 27.4%, according to Nielsen/VideoScan figures cited by BDA.
According to the Blu-ray camp, total Blu-ray disc sales in the U.S. since launch topped 4 million units in November, about the same time HD DVD software sales passed just 2.5 million units.
DisplaySearch predicts Black Friday trends will continue through the rest of the year. By the end of 2007, 678,000 HD DVD stand-alones will have shipped into retail since launch, it said. Blu-ray players will have shipped 461,000 units. PS3s will stand at 2.5 million units, and Xbox 360 HD DVD drive at 270,000 units.
Keeping with previous predictions, DisplaySearch estimates that 4.76 million high-def stand-alones will have shipped to retail by year-end 2008.
http://www.videobusiness.com/article/CA6510883.html?nid=3511
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Black Friday Results... ;D ;D ;D
High-def player sales still just 10% of standard DVD
DisplaySearch: Discounting gave HD DVD two-thirds of next-gen holiday sales
DEC. 7 | High-def hardware achieved huge Black Friday gains, but still lags behind the sales pace of standard-definition DVD players.
HD DVD and Blu-ray Disc stand-alone players sold 57,000 units during the week ended Nov. 24, the day marking the official kick-off to the holiday season. That contrasts to the 600,000 units sold of standard-def DVD players, according to market analyst DisplaySearch.
DisplaySearch released these figures during a Black Friday Webinar on Friday.
HD DVD commanded the lion’s share of unit sales for stand-alone high-def disc players, scoring a 62% unit share; Blu-ray held 37%. Due to higher price points, Blu-ray hardware cornered 52% of the revenue; HD DVD, 47%.
Paul Erickson, director of DVD and HD DVD market research at DisplaySearch, said that HD DVD’s retail pricing, which on average was 50% cheaper than Blu-ray stand-alones, spurred its Black Friday sales for the format. The most popular high-def models were Toshiba’s HD-A3, which many retailers sold for $199, and the Sony and Samsung Blu-ray players and PS3 model that sold for $399.
Each format significantly hiked its sales from week directly preceding the Black Friday frame. HD DVD unit sales jumped 454%; Blu-ray, up 189%. In revenue, HD DVD was up 272%; Blu-ray, up 176%.
Due to strong promotion around its new $399 40GB model, PlayStation 3 sold between 160,000 and 170,000 units, DisplaySearch estimates.
HD DVD might have sold more units during the Black Friday period, but the Blu-ray Disc Assn. nevertheless said it hit a new milestone—2.7 million players sold since launch—over the period. The figure encompasses both Blu-ray-capable gaming devices and Blu-ray set-top players, but the Blu-rayA declined to break down sales.
The HD DVD camp earlier said its total sales of set-top players and gaming devices reached 750,000 units following widespread holiday retail sales, notably including $99-priced players at Wal-Mart and Best Buy.
The BDA last week also trumpeted its continuing lead in Blu-ray software sales, which in the weeks leading up to Black Friday had been outpacing HD DVD titles by a two-to-one ratio. During the Black Friday period, Blu-ray titles made up 72.6% of all high-def purchases, with HD DVD totaling 27.4%, according to Nielsen/VideoScan figures cited by BDA.
According to the Blu-ray camp, total Blu-ray disc sales in the U.S. since launch topped 4 million units in November, about the same time HD DVD software sales passed just 2.5 million units.
DisplaySearch predicts Black Friday trends will continue through the rest of the year. By the end of 2007, 678,000 HD DVD stand-alones will have shipped into retail since launch, it said. Blu-ray players will have shipped 461,000 units. PS3s will stand at 2.5 million units, and Xbox 360 HD DVD drive at 270,000 units.
Keeping with previous predictions, DisplaySearch estimates that 4.76 million high-def stand-alones will have shipped to retail by year-end 2008.
http://www.videobusiness.com/article/CA6510883.html?nid=3511
Probably those who bought SD DVD players are those still watching VCD on their VCD players... ;D ;D ;D
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VCD was never been popular in the US. And the only VCD disc I saw were pron. ;D ;D ;D
Kidding aside, with around $10 difference in pricing on software and a hundred dollars on hardware between SD and HD. Majority seems to prefer quantity over quality.
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Harry Potter Blunder
Some owners of the 'Harry Potter Limited Edition Gift Set' are reporting that an HD DVD has infiltrated their Blu-ray packaging. Numerous reports are surfacing that owners of the Blu-ray set are finding HD DVD versions of "Goblet of Fire" or "The Order of the Phoenix" in their packaging. So if you picked up the set yesterday, or plan to pick one up soon, make sure to check all the discs for the Blu-ray logo.
If you happen to find an HD DVD, don't panic. Recent university-based studies have shown that HD DVDs are not contagious, and only harmful when viewed with alcohol. The easiest way to remedy the problem is to return the set to the store where you purchased it. Most retailers have extended return policies for the holidays, so even if you receive/give it as a gift later this month, you are covered. ;D ;D ;D
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=743
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Glad that I had second thoughts and canceled my pre-order... Just hoping same thing will not happen for Blade Runner... oh well... Warner... deja vu Superman!
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Toshiba Likely To Post Op Profit Decline For Oct-Dec Quarter
12 December 2007 - Nikkei Report
TOKYO (Nikkei)-- Toshiba Corp is seen posting a lower October-December group operating profit than the 55.9 billion yen it booked in the year-ago period, due to plunging NAND-type flash memory chip prices and higher marketing costs for next-generation DVD recorders.
The company, however, appears to be on track to achieve its full-year operating profit target of 290 billion yen, up 12% from fiscal 2006, as first-half earnings and robust profits at other operations offset third-quarter sluggishness.
The October-December operating profit at the firm's semiconductor business is expected to surpass its year-earlier tally of 23.8 billion yen, but fall short of the 41.6 billion yen it reported in the July-September quarter. The market price for an 8-gigabit NAND-type flash memory chip is now languishing at about 4 dollars after hitting a year-to-date high of 9 dollars in August.
In addition, its operations for next-generation DVD recorders are in the red. Toshiba is spending huge sums to market its HD DVD recorders as Sony Corp. (6758) and Matsucrapa Electric Industrial Co. (6752) step up efforts to promote their Blu-ray machines.
Profit is also declining at its infrastructure-related business.
As a result, the company's overall operating profit for the quarter is expected to decline.
For the year ending March 2008, Toshiba's operating profit is seen reaching 120 billion yen at the infrastructure division, up 24%, and 150 billion yen at the chip business, up 17%. This is expected to make up for an anticipated loss of at least 40 billion yen at its HD DVD recorder business.
40B Yen = $360M loss for just Oct-Dec 2007
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Ganyan talaga ang business! Cut throat competition ang labanan eh kaya willing ang Toshiba na magbenta at a lost ng kanilang hd machines just to kick-out of business the competition. Overall naman kasi e meron pa ring net profit kasi merong profitable segment ng company na pwedeng sumalo ng lugi. Ang Sony ay talagang nalulugi kaya di pwedeng sumabay na babaan pa ang kanilang blu-ray machine kasi magdadagdag lang sa overall operating loss. ;D ;D
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Harry Potter Blunder
Some owners of the 'Harry Potter Limited Edition Gift Set' are reporting that an HD DVD has infiltrated their Blu-ray packaging....
What a blunder! This is really funny...perhaps HD DVD is trying out its Trojan Horse strategy... ;D
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BD Outsells HD-DVD in this week's Neilsons 76:24
This week the ratio was over 3:1 in terms of disc sales.
BD commanded the top 10 with 8 movies while hd-dvd had 2.
HD-DVD delivered 0 warner bros titles in the top 10 while Blu-Ray delivered on 300.
BluRay's top movie outsold HD-DVD's top movie by 8:1
http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/questex/hom121607/index.php
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Pirates 3 Sells 160K Copies; Superbad Not Far Behind
Studios see hope for strong December business
Coming in on the top of the high definition sales charts last week was the Blu-ray release of 'Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End' with an estimated 160,000 copies sold. Coming in second was 'Superbad', also released last week exclusively on Blu-ray, which posted impressive numbers as well. At this time, weekly percentages are not available.
'Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End' has now taken the lead as the best selling title at first week of sale. That title was previously held by 'Spider-man 3' which sold 130,000 copies its first week of sales
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=748
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Pirates 3 Sells 160K Copies; Superbad Not Far Behind
Studios see hope for strong December business
Coming in on the top of the high definition sales charts last week was the Blu-ray release of 'Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End' with an estimated 160,000 copies sold. Coming in second was 'Superbad', also released last week exclusively on Blu-ray, which posted impressive numbers as well. At this time, weekly percentages are not available.
'Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End' has now taken the lead as the best selling title at first week of sale. That title was previously held by 'Spider-man 3' which sold 130,000 copies its first week of sales
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=748
Now this type of "Pirates" is the disc people should be supporting and collecting, not the other type. ;D
Thanks for the news update Mouldingo ;)
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Paramount Plots 'Beowulf' HD DVD for February
In an early alert to retailers, Paramount has revealed that it's planning to bring the fantasy hit 'Beowulf' to HD DVD this February.
Utilizing cutting-edge motion capture technology to update the classic tale of the mythical English warrior, Robert Zemeckis's 'Beowulf' has enthralled audiences worldwide to the tune of nearly $200 million in box office receipts (and counting).
Paramount has set a February 26 arrival for the HD DVD, day-and-date with the standard-def DVD.
According to the studio, a full press release for 'Beowulf' isn't expected until early next month, so for now specs and supplement details are TBA.
Source (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Paramount/Disc_Announcements/Paramount_Plots_Beowulf_HD_DVD_for_February/1282)
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Warner Brothers Blu-ray Blunder... Again
One of the most anticipated releases on Blu-ray this quarter is the Blu-ray release of 'Blade Runner'. Demand for the release has left many retailers sold-out, leaving fans of the iconic Sci-fi film empty-handed. Unfortunately, some fans lucky enough to get a copy have found that the fifth disc is actually the same as the first disc, instead of the being the labeled "Work Print".
Fans are reporting that, while the fifth disc is labeled as the "Work Print", when they play the disc they are finding it to be the "Final Cut" of the movie. To find out if you have the correct version of the film on the fifth disc, play the movie and see which audio options you have in the set-up. If you only have an English track, you're ok. If you see the option for a Dolby TrueHD track, you have a bad disc (only the "Final Cut" has a Dolby TrueHD cut).
Warner Home Video has yet to make an official announcement, and with low supplies, returning for replacement copies might not be an option. We'll keep you updated when we hear from the studio.
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=766
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Speaking of blunder.... :-\
'Black Pearl' Blu-ray Disc Exchange Details Revealed
Framing issues be gone! Disney has kicked off a disc replacement program for the Blu-ray edition of 'Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl.'
As we've previously reported, trouble first began brewing for 'Black Pearl' on Blu-ray this past September, when reports first surfaced online that select scenes on the disc suffered from framing problems that wreaked havoc with the film's intended compositions.
Full article (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Disney/Technical_Glitches/Black_Pearl_Blu-ray_Disc_Exchange_Details_Revealed/1284)
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Wow thanks for that Paul, so it seems that the Blue and Red camps both have their own share of problematic titles warranting a replacement program. What about for purchases made outside of the US/Canada, think we can avail of this? In the article link you provided, it states that:
"This program is being provided for free to consumers who purchased earlier versions of the 'Curse of the Black Pearl' Blu-ray disc. No shipping and handling charges apply. In order to participate, call Disney's customer service line at 1-800-723-4763, and have your name, address, phone number and UPC number ready. You can also email the information directly to [email protected]."
Hmmm... I hope they're open... ???
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Wow thanks for that Paul, so it seems that the Blue and Red camps both have their own share of problematic titles warranting a replacement program. What about for purchases made outside of the US/Canada, think we can avail of this? In the article link you provided, it states that:
"This program is being provided for free to consumers who purchased earlier versions of the 'Curse of the Black Pearl' Blu-ray disc. No shipping and handling charges apply. In order to participate, call Disney's customer service line at 1-800-723-4763, and have your name, address, phone number and UPC number ready. You can also email the information directly to [email protected]."
Hmmm... I hope they're open... ???
Unfortunately, the disc exchange program is only for discs bought in the US/Canada
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Unfortunately, the disc exchange program is only for discs bought in the US/Canada
thanks krazy, alrightie. then it look like the curse (of the black pearl) is upon us. ;)
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thanks krazy, alrightie. then it look like the curse (of the black pearl) is upon us. ;)
Hehe LOL :D You could try the replacement if you have a relative in US or using a US based address.
For me, it's not worth the time & effort to replace it just for the framing error eh that happen in a split second.... ;D
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Speaking of Disc Replacement programs - here's T3 joining the fray:
Warner Confirms 'T3' Blu-ray Problems; Replacement Program Expected
Source: Hi Def Digest. Fri Dec 21, 2007 at 11:00 AM ET
Confirming online reports of an encoding defect on its recently-issued Blu-ray release of 'Terminator 3,' Warner has begun taking consumer information in anticipation of a future disc replacement program. One of Warner's more eagerly awaited Blu-ray catalog titles, 'Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines' finally hit stores this past Tuesday, but excitement soon turned to disappointment for some early adopters when it was discovered that regular playback of the disc is being limited to 1080i output -- not the industry standard 1080p, as listed on the box art.
According to early reports, it would seem something went wrong while encoding the movie's picture-in-picture "In Movie Experience" track. (As we've previously reported, 'T3' is the first Warner Blu-ray title to include an IME, although instead of utilizing the format's newly released Profile 1.1 technology to power two concurrent streams of audio and video, Warner has stated that it planned to burn a PiP window onto a second high-def encode of the film itself, effectively matching the PiP experience without requiring Profile 1.1-compliant hardware.)
We spoke with a Warner rep late Thursday, who confirmed to us that the studio is aware of the 'T3' issue and is investigating its source, but said that they have no immediate plans to recall Blu-ray copies of the title currently on store shelves.
Instead, the studio has begun taking consumer information via its Customer Support hotline in anticipation of a future disc replacement program. To arrange for a replacement disc, you can contact Warner Home Video at 1-800-553-6937.
At press time the studio was unable to provide a timeline for when corrected 'T3' discs might be sent to affected consumers, nor when any new pressings might hit stores. Needless to say, we'll keep you posted.
(http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4170/original.jpeg)
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And another 'crazy' headliner: :D
Hack Attack: Official Blu-ray Site Redirects to HD DVD Site
Source: Hi Def Digest. Fri Dec 21, 2007 at 04:38 PM ET
In a nasty turn of events Friday afternoon, the official Blu-ray Disc Association site was apparently hacked, redirecting visitors to the official HD DVD site.
Beginning at around 4pm ET Friday, and continuing intermittently into the afternoon, visitors to the blu-raydisc.com web site were instead sent to the HD DVD camp's lookandsoundofperfect.com web site.
At press time, no one had claimed responsibility for the apparent hack, and there was no official response from either the BDA or the HD DVD Promotions Group.
We'll continue to keep you informed of any new developments as they emerge.
(http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4712/original.jpeg)
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And another 'crazy' headliner: :D
Hack Attack: Official Blu-ray Site Redirects to HD DVD Site
Hehe....initially 'Harry Potter Limited Edition Gift Set' Blu-ray are reporting that an HD DVD has infiltrated their Blu-ray packaging....and now the Blu-ray site is being hacked... ;D
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Hehe....initially 'Harry Potter Limited Edition Gift Set' Blu-ray are reporting that an HD DVD has infiltrated their Blu-ray packaging....and now the Blu-ray site is being hacked... ;D
lol! :D wow, 'tis pretty evident that the RED camp now means business and is dead set to narrow down the gap! ;)
...and via very creative executions at that! :D ;D :D
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Best (and Worst) High-Def Discs of 2007: Kenneth Brown
Source (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/2007_Year_in_Review/Best_(and_Worst)_High-Def_Discs_of_2007:_Kenneth_Brown/1300)
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Harry Potter HD DVDs dominate in Amazon
Top 4 spots in Top Selling DVDs are occupied by Harry Potter HD DVDs. On-going HD DVD players price cuts wet consumer appetite for Potter titles.
Top 100 in the last 30 days
(http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/9862/top10011recent305c43feqw5.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
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Nice to see that for a change. Hope HD DVD sales can sustain & more BOGO pls.... ;)
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Harry Potter HD DVDs dominate in Amazon
Top 4 spots in Top Selling DVDs are occupied by Harry Potter HD DVDs. On-going HD DVD players price cuts wet consumer appetite for Potter titles.
Good to hear! Am sure the PDVD members contributed in their own small way to that spike thanks to the fervent Amazon aficionados here! ;) As Pichin mentioned - hope the deals keep on coming :D
(http://bp1.blogger.com/_auaL_s5VlF0/RdidjHHbLBI/AAAAAAAAAXY/Gg4I5YPrQnU/s1600/fingers_crossed_DT_rt.gif) (http://bp1.blogger.com/_auaL_s5VlF0/RdidjHHbLBI/AAAAAAAAAXY/Gg4I5YPrQnU/s1600/fingers_crossed_DT_rt.gif) (http://bp1.blogger.com/_auaL_s5VlF0/RdidjHHbLBI/AAAAAAAAAXY/Gg4I5YPrQnU/s1600/fingers_crossed_DT_rt.gif)
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Am just posting some excerpts from Joshua Zyber's commentary on the 'Year-end Studio Report Cards' recently posted on Hidef Digest, which pertains to his personal review of all the major High Definition studios while handing out his own ratings for each based on how well they've supported their chosen formats in '07.
I just clipped the major ones and included summaries per studio. One learning here is that holding a Neutral stance does pay-out handsomely - as evidenced by WB getting the highest rating - a perfect A! Enjoy! ;)
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4620/original.pjpeg)
Key Releases: potc, cars, ratatouille
Ranking: A-
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4621/original.pjpeg)
Key Releases: first blood, basic instinct, crank, saw
Ranking: C
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4623/original.pjpeg)
Key Releases: casino royale (co-prod'n with Sony), hoosiers, robocop
Ranking: C-
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4624/original.pjpeg)
Key Releases: hairspray, rush hour 3, pan's labyrinth
Ranking: C
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4625/original.pjpeg) (http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4638/original.pjpeg)
Key Releases: transformers, shrek the third, flags of our fathers
Ranking: B+
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4626/original.pjpeg)
Key Releases: the fifth element, casino royale, spiderman trilogy
Ranking: A-
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4628/original.pjpeg)
Key Releases: die hard collection, the simpsons movie, 28 days later
Ranking: C-
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4629/original.pjpeg)
Key Releases: knocked-up, bourne ultimatum, heroes
Ranking: B+
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4630/original.pjpeg)
Key Releases: 300, harry potter, blade runner
Ranking: A
For the full commentary, click HERE. (http://www.highdefdigest.com/tags/show/Joshua_Zyber)
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Fox Sets Specs, New Date for 'ID4' Blu-ray
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3659/original.jpeg)
Following a earlier street date delay, the aliens of 'Independence Day' will finally invade Blu-ray this March.
As previously reported, Fox postponed the originally-planned December 4 Blu-ray release of mammoth blockbuster only days before it was due to hit stores, citing last-minute quality-control issues. Now the studio has confirmed a new date for the highly-anticipated release, which will hit Blu-ray at last on March 11, 2008.
Fox has also issued final specs for 'ID4,' which include 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video, a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track, plus Dolby Digital dubs and subtitle options in French and Spanish.
Fans hoping for a high-def replica of the same extensive extras found on the two-disc DVD version of the alien blockbuster will be disappointed, as the studio will be offering only a limited numbers of extras on the Blu-ray. Included on the set will be two audio commentaries with the filmmakers, plus a suite of four theatrical trailers. All of the previous edition's other video-based materials have not been ported over.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray, however, will be the "Alien Intercept" BD-Java interactive game, a subtitle fact track, personal scene selections, a content index, and D-Box enhancement
Source (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Fox/Street_Date_Changes/Fox_Sets_Specs,_New_Date_for_ID4_Blu-ray/1309)
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'Bee Movie' Buzzes to HD DVD
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4762/original.jpeg)
In an early alert to retailers, DreamWorks has set a March arrival for the animated Jerry Seinfeld blockbuster 'Bee Movie.'
Scoring nearly $125 million at the domestic box office and bolstered by an all-star voice cast that includes Seinfeld, Renee Zellweger, Matthew Broderick and Oprah Winfrey, 'Bee Movie' is likely to be just as big of a hit on the small screen when it arrives on HD DVD March 11, 2008, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Due to the early nature of this news, DreamWorks specs and supplemental details for 'Bee Movie' have yet to be announced, but we'll keep you posted.
Source (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/DreamWorks/Disc_Announcements/Bee_Movie_Buzzes_to_HD_DVD/1310)
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Japan Imports
(http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/4239/127374114uo4.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
21 Dec 2007
(http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/8633/13238d030lx0.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
21 Dec 2007
(http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/5688/98239a17asa4.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
18 Jan 2008
(http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/5146/1383aa156nv1.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
21 Dec 2007
(http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/5452/1403b8e27pv1.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
21 Dec 2007
(http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/98/51qqckc3julaa2403dc4ddko1.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
(http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/9766/51mfvxiomtlaa2403ebcdalk3.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
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New HD audio delights from the Blu camp. ;)
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4798/original.jpeg)
'Across the Universe' Blu-ray Specs Revealed
Thu Jan 03, 2008 at 04:00 PM ET
Full specs are in for the Blu-ray edition of 'Across the Universe,' with Sony promising a host of bonus musical performances and additional high-def exclusives.
As we first reported in late November, Julie Taymor's ambitious rock opera featuring reinterpretations of over two dozen classic Beatles songs is due to hit both Blu-ray and standard-def DVD on February 5, 2008. Full details are now in, with both the Blu-ray and two-disc DVD sharing a wealth of bonus features and never-before-seen musical materials.
In addition to the previously-announced audio commentary with director Julie Taymor and composer Eliot Goldenthal, other extras will include eight extended musical performances, a deleted scene ("And I Love Her"), plus five making-of featurettes: "Creating the Universe," "Stars of Tomorrow," "All About the Music," "FX on the Universe" and "Moving Across the Universe."
Exclusive to the Blu-ray will be an art gallery of "Jude's" drawings (a reference to the film's fictional character based on the classic Beatles tune "Hey Jude"), illustrated by Don Nace.
Tech specs include 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and uncompressed PCM 5.1 Surround audio (48kHz/24-bit)
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'Mysterious Aqua,' 'Mountain Winds' Multichannel Audio HD DVDs Announced
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4788/original.jpeg)
Surround Records has announced it will bow the latest two additions to its growing line of HD DVD multichannel audio releases beginning in late January.
Like the company's last batch of HD DVD releases that included 'Uncommon Mozart,' 'Spatial Dynamics' and 'Space or Dream of Life' (all which hit stores last October), 'Mysterious Aqua' and 'Mountain Winds' are produced by Alexander Golberg Jero, and are presented in '3-Dimensional Sound Reality,' which the press materials promise reveals a "clarity and sonic perception of these works [that] will open a new vision of the original masterpieces."
Surround Records has announced it will bow the latest two additions to its growing line of HD DVD multichannel audio releases beginning in late January.
Like the company's last batch of HD DVD releases that included 'Uncommon Mozart,' 'Spatial Dynamics' and 'Space or Dream of Life' (all which hit stores last October), 'Mysterious Aqua' and 'Mountain Winds' are produced by Alexander Golberg Jero, and are presented in '3-Dimensional Sound Reality,' which the press materials promise reveals a "clarity and sonic perception of these works [that] will open a new vision of the original masterpieces."
Source (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Surround_Records/Music_on_High-Def/Disc_Announcements/Mysterious_Aqua,_Mountain_Winds_Multichannel_Audio_HD_DVDs_Announced/1317)
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For the CDion fans ;D Please find the release below and the discussion in the HDD forum thread HERE. (http://forums.highdefdigest.com/showthread.php?t=20203)
(http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4789/original.jpeg)
Celine's 'A New Day' Blu-ray Gets a New Date
Thu Jan 03, 2008 at 01:10 PM ET
The wait is over, Celine Dion fans: Sony BMG has announced a February arrival for the songstress' long-awaited Blu-ray concert extravaganza 'Live in Las Vegas.'
As we first reported back in October, Sony originally announced 'Celine Dion: A New Day... Live in Las Vegas' for a December 11 Blu-ray debut, day-and-date with the standard DVD and only days before the singer was scheduled to make her final bow at Caesar's Palace. But in a last-minute delay, Sony yanked the Blu-ray version without explanation, offering no new date.
Now the distributor has finally given the greenlight for Celine's high-def debut, setting a new date of February 5 for 'A New Day.'
Confirmed specs for the release include a 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer and uncompressed PCM 5.1 and 2.0 stereo audio.
Extras will mirror the standard-def version, and include a behind-the-scenes documentary, "Tribute to the Fans" featurette, and additional interviews with the creative team behind 'A New Day.'
Retail for the Blu-ray remains set at $34.98.
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Fox Announces Q1 Blu-ray Titles
Fox Home Entertainment has announced six upcoming Blu-ray titles, all with street dates during the first quarter of 2008. Included in the list is the delayed Blu-ray release of 'Independence Day' which will see release on March 11th, the same date as the newly announced and highly anticipated 'I, Robot'.
MAN ON FIRE (January 8th): Authored in BD-Java using MPEG2 compression and presented on a 50GB dual layer disc with English 5.1 DTS HD Lossless Master Audio and French and Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital Sound. Subtitles: English, Spanish, French.
WALL STREET (February 5th): Authored in MPEG2 compression and presented on a 50GB dual layer disc with English 5.1 DTS HD Lossless Master Audio and English, French and Spanish subtitles. Bonus features include:
Commentary by Oliver Stone
Intro by Oliver Stone
Greed is Good-Featurette
Deleted Scenes with optional commentary by Director Oliver Stone
Money Never Sleeps - The Making of Wall Street
ME, MYSELF & IRENE (February 5th): Authored in MPEG2 compression and presented on a 25GB disc with English 5.1 DTS HD Lossless Master Audio and French 5.1 Dolby Digital Sound. Subtitles: English, Spanish, French. Bonus features include:
Deleted scenes with optional commentary by Bobby Farrelly and Peter Farrelly
Crap on the Lawn
My Cow Likes The Road
Warming The Melon
Morning After
Can't Find My Wallet
Hat On Fire
Dear Old Dad
Sex Flashback
Hank and Charlie Disagree
Extended Butt Chin Scene
Theatrical Trailers
ICE AGE (March 4th): Authored in MPEG2 compression and presented on a 25GB disc with English 5.1 DTS HD Lossless Master Audio and French and Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital Sound. Subtitles: English, Spanish, French. Bonus features include:
Commentary by Director Chris Wedge and Co-Director Carlos Saldanha
Deleted Scenes with commentary by Director Chris Wedge and Co-Director Carlos Saldanha
"Paying Toll"with Aardvarks
Sylvia and Sid Introduction
Sabre Stake Out
No More Fruit For You
Sid and the Ladies
Sid and Sylvia
Gone Nutty – Scrat's Missing Adventure
Theatrical Teaser
Theatrical Trailers
INDEPENDENCE DAY (March 11th): Authored in BD-Java using MPEG2 compression and presented on a 50GB dual-layer disc with English 5.1 DTS HD Lossless Master Audio and French and Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital Sound. Subtitles: English, Spanish, French. Bonus features include:
Scene Specific Commentary by Director Roland Emerich and Producer Dean Devlin
Commentary by Oscar-Winning FX supervisors Volker Engel and Doug Smith
Trivia Track
Search Content
Personal Scene Selections
Alien Scavenger Hunt (Java Game)
D-Box Technology
Theatrical Teaser
Theatrical Trailers
I, ROBOT (March 11th) : Authored in BD-Java using MPEG2 compression and presented on a 50GB dual-layer disc English 5.1 DTS HD Lossless Master Audio and French and Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital Sound. Subtitles: English, Spanish, French. Bonus features include: Commentary by Director Alex Proyas and Screenwriter Akiva Goldsman
Commentary by Screenwriter Jeff Vintar
Commentary by Composer Marco Beltrami with isolated cues from the score
I, Robot Trivia Track
Extended and Deleted Scenes
D-Box Technology
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=805
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CES 2008: Disney Announces Upcoming Titles for All Regions
In a pre-CES press release, Disney has unveiled their expected upcoming Blu-ray releases through the summer. While the list is by no means complete, it does give us a good indication of what to look for in the coming months. 'The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe' has once again been put on the Blu-ray release list for May, which should be released around the May 16th theatrical release of 'The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian'.
North America
The Rock (January 8)
Con Air (January 8)
The Game Plan (January 22)
Crimson Tide (February 5)
Gone Baby Gone (February 12)
Becoming Jane (February 12)
The Rookie (March 4)
Dan In Real Life (March 11)
Hidalgo (Spring)
Coyote Ugly: The Double Shot Edition (Spring)
Unbreakable (Spring)
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe (Spring)
National Treasure: Collector's Edition (Spring)
Europe/Australia
The Recruit (January)
Dark Water (February)
Underdog (February)
Starsky & Hutch (February)
Coyote Ugly (March)
The Rookie (March)
Hidalgo (April)
Gone Baby Gone (April)
Signs (May)
There Will Be Blood (May)
Shall We Dance (May)
Ladder 49 (May)
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe (May)
National Treasure: Collector's Edition (May)
The Game Plan (Summer)
Unbreakable (Summer)
Japan
Hollywoodland (February)
The Rookie (April)
Hidalgo (April)
Meet The Robinsons (April)
Starsky & Hutch (April)
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe (May)
Coyote Ugly (May)
National Treasure: Collector's Edition (May)
Unbreakable (Summer)
Signs (Summer)
Disney has also announced that they will extend the popular Magical Blu-ray Tour to eight additional cities due to popular demand. The first stop will be to Toronto, Canada the weekend of January 25th and continue on to Nashville, Denver, Dallas, Raleigh-Durham, Hartford and conclude with Chicago at Unity 2008 in July.
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=804
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Guys, for the time being, I'm incorporating all news related to the Warner shift to Blu-ray exclusivity into this thread: http://pinoydvd.com/board/index.php?topic=75519.0
It's a major development that probably means the death of HD DVD, and deserves its own thread. Please post your updates regarding this issue on that thread (http://pinoydvd.com/board/index.php?topic=75519.0), since if the news is in two separate threads, it will lead to unnecessary duplication. Some members apparently feel bad when their news is accidentally reposted by others on another thread, so this is the only way to prevent that from happening.
Thanks!
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Fox Announces Q1 Blu-ray Titles
Still no Star Wars? I'm sure everyone's waiting for this...
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CES: Fox Touts BD-Live, Previews 'Alien vs. Predator: Requiem' Blu-ray
With an eye toward merging the Blu-ray format's BD-Live capabilities with social networking, Fox touted the message "The Future is Blu, the Future is BD-Live" today at CES 2008.
Taking part in a Blu-ray interactivity conference held earlier today, Fox showcased a number of BD-Live features it plans to bring to Blu-ray in 2008, as well as hinting that the company's ownership of MySpace may play a part in expanding the networking possibilities of the format.
Fox VP Danny Kaye took the stage to show off various BD-Live-based interactive features the studio is currently developing, including the ability for users to store and retrieve information online via MySpace.
Kaye then showed how a user could download a picture from a site like MySpace, and "insert" it into a Blu-ray disc.
The exec also demonstrated the forthcoming "Alien vs. Predator vs. You" BD-Live interactive game, which can be played by multiple players across a network, and is set to be included in the forthcoming 2008 Blu-ray release of 'Alien vs. Predator: Requiem' (street date TBA).
"The whole idea is to extend the movie experience from two hours, to ten more hours of fun," said Kaye. Fox was joined in the interactivity conference by Sony, which pushed its own BD-Live plans for 2008.
Source (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Fox/CES_2008/CES:_Fox_Touts_BD-Live,_Previews_Alien_vs._Predator:_Requiem_Blu-ray/1346)
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Hi-def movies copied to PSPs and memory sticks.
January 7, 2008 - Now, your Blu-ray library can follow you wherever you go. According to an article from PC World, Sony demonstrated the ability to insert a Blu-ray movie into a PS3 and then transfer a copy of that movie to a PSP or a Memory Stick at its booth at CES. Highlighted as the next level of disc copying, this was merely one part of the new "BD Live" functionality, which will include the ability to download ring tones and new content to BD Live players.
According to David Bishop, president of Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, "This way, you can have a portable copy you can take with you. There was always the promise of greater interactivity. You'll see that coming in the new year."
We tried to contact SCEA, but they were unavailable for comment at the time of publication of this article. While there was no estimated time that consumers would see this new function, it could make 2008 a very entertaining year for PSP and PS3 users, and further strengthen Blu-ray in the format war.
http://ps3.ign.com/articles/843/843979p1.html
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If i understand it correctly, i can ask a PS3 owner to make me a copy of their movies into a memory stick, and i can watch it on my PSP?
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^^ Ganon na nga. Pero the technology is coming soon pa pala.
Read below.
Future Blu-Ray movie releases will include versions of the films optimized for the portable PSP, Sony announced at CES today.
By inserting the disc into a PlayStation 3 and connecting the PSP, disc owners will be able to copy the special lower-resolution version of the movie onto the Memory Stick in the PSP and watch it on the go.
An interesting feature, although it falls short of simply allowing users to rip movies and copy them to the PSP themselves. And Sony hasn't said which films will include this feature. It'll be interesting to see if Sony restricts this to PlayStation 3 owners, or if they allow the files to be copied from BD-ROM readers on PC. Or, for that matter, if there's any DRM attached to the movie files.
http://blog.wired.com/games/2008/01/ces-download-bl.html
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i'm thinking maybe not the movie itself the but the special features, like the making, documentaries etc.... would be an interesting add-on value ^_^ a BD disc can spare 1GB PSP data from its 50GB capacity for it lols
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We should have waited another year to introduce Blu-ray to the public
http://www.betanews.com/article/Bluray_Early_adopters_knew_what_they_were_getting_into/1199841379 (http://www.betanews.com/article/Bluray_Early_adopters_knew_what_they_were_getting_into/1199841379)
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March 4th
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February 5th
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February 19th
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March 11th
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February 5th
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March 11th
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March 11th
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New Line Details Transition to Blu-ray
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4873/original.jpeg)
Confirming earlier reports that it would follow Warner to Blu-ray exclusivity, New Line says its first HD DVD title ('Pan's Labyrinth') will also be its last.
Though it was widely assumed that New Line (whose parent company is Time-Warner) would follow Warner Home Video's lead and continue to release on HD DVD through May 2008, a company rep tells us that New Line's move will go into immediate effect, with all of the studio's planned HD DVD releases now cancelled (including the HD DVD versions of current Blu-ray releases 'Hairspray' and 'Rush Hour 3,' which had previously been planned for HD DVD release sometime in early 2008).
As for 'Pan's Labyrinth,' which hit stores late last year as the first (and only) New Line HD DVD release, the studio says that once current retail supplies are depleted, the title will be discontinued -- making it an instant collector's item.
New Line says it's not planning to issue an official press release trumpeting the move, ending its short-lived HD DVD support with a relative whimper.
The studio also tells us they won't be revealing any new Blu-ray titles at CES, though they do plan to continue to support the format throughout 2008 with a variety of new release and catalog titles to be announced in the future.
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/New_Line/Industry_Trends/New_Line_Details_Transition_to_Blu-ray/1351 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/New_Line/Industry_Trends/New_Line_Details_Transition_to_Blu-ray/1351)
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Batman Begins and Matrix being "prepped" for blu ray
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Warner:_Profile_1.1_Blu-ray_Titles_Coming_Soon/1340
With the studio having thrown its weight behind Blu-ray, Warner Home Entertainment President Kevin Tsujihara says plans are underway to introduce its first Profile 1.1 compliant titles to the market.
Although Profile 1.1 hardware is now readily available, and several Blu-ray-supporting studios have already produced titles with Profile 1.1-enabled features, Warner has yet to utilize the technology on any of its Blu-ray releases.
That appears to be on the verge of changing, however, following Warner's seismic shift late last week to Blu-ray exclusivity. Speaking with High-Def Digest, Tsujishara stated that the studio is preparing several Profile 1.1 titles --specifically the library of nearly a dozen Warner titles previously released on HD DVD that used that format's HDi technology to deliver the studio's "In Movie Experience" picture-in-picture video commentary and other interactive features.
"We held off releasing them on Blu-ray because we wanted to be able to have the full interactivity," said Tsujishara. "At this point in time, we're still working out all the kinks [with the technology], but they will be released soon."
Two titles specifically cited by Tsujishara as being prepped for Blu-ray release were 'Batman Begins,' and the blockbuster 'Matrix' trilogy, although he stopped short of naming actual street dates.
As previously reported, Warner's switch to Blu-ray allegiance will see the studio releasing titles on both Blu-ray and HD DVD through the end of May 2008, after which they will back Blu-ray exclusively. At press time, Warner had not announced any upcoming releases (on either format) to feature picture-in-picture interactivity.
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Fox Preps 'Predator' Blu-ray
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4880/original.jpeg)
In an early announce to retailers, Fox has set an April Blu-ray debut for the Arnold Schwarzenegger classic 'Predator.'
One of the "monster" franchises of the '80s (along with the 'Alien' series), the original 'Predator' has long been on the wishlish of early adopters for high-def release. Now Fox has heeded the call to hunt, setting an April 15 street date for the Blu-ray.
With a full press announcement still due in the coming days, there are no supplemental details yet available, but we'll keep you posted.
Tech specs are set to include 1080p video and audio flavors in DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround and Dolby Digital 4.0 Surround, plus a French Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo dub.
Source (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Fox/Disc_Announcements/Fox_Preps_Predator_Blu-ray/1355)
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Constantin opts for Blu-ray
German distrib follows Warner's lead
http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117978808.html?categoryid=19&cs=1
BERLIN — Constantin Film, Germany’s leading independent producer-distrib, is following suit in the wake of Warner Bros. decision to go with the Blu-ray format.
Company said Thursday it too had chosen the Blu-ray format for its hi-def home entertainment products.
Up until now, Constantin had supported both HD DVD and the Blu-ray technology, but as of March 1, new releases will be appearing solely in Blu-ray.
Warners last week rejected a dual-format strategy in favor of Blu-ray.
“By taking this trendsetting decision, the market-leading U.S. film group has helped to bring about faster the urgently needed clarification of the situation and to end the ‘format war’ that has been going on for years now,” Constantin said in a statement.
Franz Woodtli, Constantin’s home entertainment director, added: "In taking our decision in favor of the Blu-ray format, we are clearly following the international trend. The longstanding dispute about the successor to the DVD caused considerable uncertainty among consumers in 2007 in particular and has led to a delay in the mainstream introduction of hi-def as a result. Clear positioning therefore has advantages for consumers, producers and retailers."
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I Just want to share that HD-DVD is more popular in U.S. compare to its rival Blu-ray. Since Blu-Ray is more popular to us. I just want to share my shopping with Blu-Ray here:
Medyo malabo cell shot lang bawal kumuha sa loob. I use this to review kung saan mas mura either Frys electronics or Best Buy :o
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y224/Odyopayl/Blu-Ray1.jpg)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y224/Odyopayl/BL2.jpg)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y224/Odyopayl/BL3.jpg)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y224/Odyopayl/BL4.jpg)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y224/Odyopayl/BL5.jpg)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y224/Odyopayl/BL6.jpg)
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Nice pics odyopayl, HD-DVD clearly ain't dead yet. Posted this on the Warner "Breaking News" thread but specifically pertains to Universal's position on the HD-DVD support. Here's an excerpt: ;)
"Contrary to unsubstantiated rumors from unnamed sources, Universal's current plan is to continue to support the HD DVD format," said Ken Graffeo, executive vice president of HD strategic marketing for Universal Studios Home Entertainment and co-president of the HD DVD Promotional Group.
Click HERE (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Industry_Trends/Universal_Re-Affirms_HD_DVD_Support/1362) for the full news.
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/1/1853/original.jpeg)
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Nice pics odyopayl, HD-DVD clearly ain't dead yet. Posted this on the Warner "Breaking News" thread but specifically pertains to Universal's position on the HD-DVD support. Here's an excerpt: ;)
"Contrary to unsubstantiated rumors from unnamed sources, Universal's current plan is to continue to support the HD DVD format," said Ken Graffeo, executive vice president of HD strategic marketing for Universal Studios Home Entertainment and co-president of the HD DVD Promotional Group.
Click HERE (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Industry_Trends/Universal_Re-Affirms_HD_DVD_Support/1362) for the full news.
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/1/1853/original.jpeg)
Hello Marl_1 HD-DVD is so popular because their player is a lot cheaper than Blu-ray. Blu-ray player is so expensive except for PS3, of course X-Box is cheaper than PS aside from this there are lot of HD-DVD player here. Wag naman sana, I want to invest also with the HD-DVD.
There are more choices of HD-DVD movies here more cheaper than blue ray. I doubt HD-DVD is dying format.
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I got both... but just like any early adopters we know that the day comes that a single standard will have an upperhand... looksl like blue-ray will be "it"...
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(http://techon.nikkeibp.co.jp/english/NEWS_EN/20080109/145130/viiiA.jpg)
(http://techon.nikkeibp.co.jp/english/NEWS_EN/20080109/145130/viiiB.jpg)
sa US lang to, sa Europe is nearly 3 to 1, sa Japan its 9 to 1 in favor of BD
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Warner Outlines HD DVD Separation Plan; Delays 'Invasion,' 'Jesse James' HD DVDs
Formalizing the first step in its HD DVD separation plan, Warner has pushed back the previously-announced HD DVD releases of 'The Invasion' and 'The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford.'
As we first reported late last week, Warner stated in their original Blu-ray exclusivity announcement that although they would continue to support HD DVD through May, their HD DVD releases would now follow their Blu-ray release by "a short window."
The studio has now confirmed the first titles to be affected by the transition, announcing a three-week-delay for the HD DVD/DVD combo versions of 'The Invasion' (now February 19, previously January 29), and 'The Assassination of Jesse James' (which will shift from February 26 to March 18).
Street dates for the previously Blu-ray and standard DVD versions of both titles remain as originally scheduled.
The studio has told us to expect a three-week delay for all of its remaining HD DVD/DVD combo titles through the May 2008 cut-off, but that they will officially announce the new dates over the next several weeks.
At presstime, all Warner HD DVD catalog titles remain unaffected by the transition, and are still set to street as originally announced (including such highly-anticipated titles as 'Bonnie & Clyde' and 'Twister').
Tech specs and special features for both 'Invasion' and 'Jesse James' remain intact, and Warner says future delays will also not see any changes in specs.
As always, you'll find disc details for 'Invasion' and 'The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford' linked from our HD DVD Release Schedule, indexed under their new dates.
source (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Release_Date_Changes/Warner/Warner_Outlines_HD_DVD_Separation_Plan_Delays_Invasion,_Jesse_James_HD_DVDs/1364)
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Disney Sets Date for 'Enchanted' Blu-ray
(http://img210.imageshack.us/img210/5807/highdefbuzzenchanted36ebc6.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
Confirming an earlier pre-announcement, Disney has officially set a March Blu-ray arrival for the surprise blockbuster 'Enchanted.'
As we've previously reported, word of a Blu-ray release for the $100 million sleeper smash first emerged last month when Disney outlined plans for a Easter-timed arrival for 'Enchanted,' though the studio stopped short of issuing an actual street date at that time.
Now, as a capper to this year's CES, the studio has confirmed that the Amy Adams-starrer will hit Blu-ray on March 18, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Extras announced so far include a suite of three making-of featurettes, deleted scenes and outtakes. Exclusive to the next-gen version will be the interactive BD-Java game "D-Files."
Tech specs have yet to be revealed, but Disney tells us that the full press release is due in the coming days. We'll keep you posted.
As previously announced, retail for the Blu-ray is $34.98.
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Still waiting Weinstein to release new HD-DVDs.
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50 Percent off Select Blu-ray, HD DVD Discs at Amazon
Sun Jan 13, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
Source High-Def Digest
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4901/original.jpeg)
In what may be the biggest high-def disc sale yet, Amazon is offering up to 57% off select Blu-ray and HD DVD discs. Both promos were launched this weekend by the web merchant, and includes hundreds of popular titles on both high-def disc formats.
Among the 229 Blu-ray discs included are such A-list titles as 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind,' 'Spider-Man - The High Definition Trilogy,' 'Superbad' and 'Casino Royale' (view complete list of Blu-ray titles).
The list of 84 HD DVD titles includes such fan favorites as 'Transformers,' 'Stardust' and 'Serenity' (view complete list of HD DVD titles).
At press time there was no word on how long either deal would be offered by Amazon, though both are being billed as limited time offers. For a full list of eligible titles and more information, click the links to Amazon below.
As always, you'll find up-to-the-minute information on these and other sales spotted in-store and online in the Blu-ray bargains and HD DVD bargains areas of our forums.
Let her rip guys!!! ;D
Blu Ray Promo click HERE (http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html?ie=UTF8&plgroup=1&docId=1000186951&plpage=1)
HD-DVD Promo click HERE (http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html?ie=UTF8&docId=1000186961)
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Hmmm... 9 pages of promoted discs for BD and only 3 for HD-DVD... I was expecting the red camp to really pour it on. Aside from the arguably better title selection in BDs sale, there were more 50% offs for them vs. the proliferation of 44% cut backs on HD-DVDs selection base. :-\
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50 Percent off Select Blu-ray, HD DVD Discs at Amazon
Sun Jan 13, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
Source High-Def Digest
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4901/original.jpeg)
In what may be the biggest high-def disc sale yet, Amazon is offering up to 57% off select Blu-ray and HD DVD discs. Both promos were launched this weekend by the web merchant, and includes hundreds of popular titles on both high-def disc formats.
Among the 229 Blu-ray discs included are such A-list titles as 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind,' 'Spider-Man - The High Definition Trilogy,' 'Superbad' and 'Casino Royale' (view complete list of Blu-ray titles).
The list of 84 HD DVD titles includes such fan favorites as 'Transformers,' 'Stardust' and 'Serenity' (view complete list of HD DVD titles).
At press time there was no word on how long either deal would be offered by Amazon, though both are being billed as limited time offers. For a full list of eligible titles and more information, click the links to Amazon below.
As always, you'll find up-to-the-minute information on these and other sales spotted in-store and online in the Blu-ray bargains and HD DVD bargains areas of our forums.
Let her rip guys!!! ;D
Blu Ray Promo click HERE (http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html?ie=UTF8&plgroup=1&docId=1000186951&plpage=1)
HD-DVD Promo click HERE (http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html?ie=UTF8&docId=1000186961)
This should be the price of all HD media = $14.99 - $22.49
I hope they keep this permanent at this price levels. ;D ;D ;D
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This should be the price of all HD media = $14.99 - $22.49
I hope they keep this permanent at this price levels. ;D ;D ;D
Hehe, I'll second that bro. This is proving to be a really popular and strategic price point as evidenced by their BOGO successes. This is the median pricing level where value meets affordability.
And, keeping it at this level (or lower ;D ) would allow them take a crack at the current king of the hill - the massive DVD market ;)
That's right HD, sacrifice some margin at the outset why don't you - it'll be easy to make money once they have the volumes already. A tried-and-tested marketing strategy across industries. ;)
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Hmmm... 9 pages of promoted discs for BD and only 3 for HD-DVD... I was expecting the red camp to really pour it on. Aside from the arguably better title selection in BDs sale, there were more 50% offs for them vs. the proliferation of 44% cut backs on HD-DVDs selection base. :-\
That has been the argument from the very start of this HD war. HD DVD lacks titles and studio support.
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I am Legend coming to HD DVD.
http://www.dvdtown.com/news/i-am-legend-on-dvd-hd-dvd-and-blu-ray/5129 (http://www.dvdtown.com/news/i-am-legend-on-dvd-hd-dvd-and-blu-ray/5129)
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That has been the argument from the very start of this HD war. HD DVD lacks titles and studio support.
Yes, as studios believe Blu-ray has higher capacity & better security feature. Tho in reality, producing HD DVD is cost effective & the technology is "mature" from day one without all the hicups faced by Blu. :-[
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JLA on both HD formats but Warner stands pat on the its mandated 3-week delay on the HD-DVD release. They reasoned out that this was still part of the 1st stage of their HD DVD separation plan. Hmmm... very shallow rationale IMHO - to spite the Red camp and not be found in 'breach.' ???
Final Specs in for 'Justice League' Blu-ray, HD DVD
Wed Jan 16, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
(http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4461/original.jpeg)
Warner has unveiled final specs (and an HD DVD delay) for its high-def release of the direct-to-video 'Justice League: The New Frontier.'
As we've previously reported, 'Justice League' will mark the first high definition release from Warner and DC Comics, bringing together Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and a host of other DC Comics heroes in a direct-to-video tale that explores the origins of legendary superteam.
Originally announced for both formats day and date with the standard DVD release on February 26, Warner now says the HD DVD edition will be delayed until March 18. (This move is consistent with the studio's plans to delay all of its previously announced HD DVD titles by three weeks as the first step in its HD DVD separation plan.)
The Blu-ray and standard DVD editions of 'Justice League: The New Frontier' remain on target for Feb 26.
Among the extras shared across all versions are two audio commentaries (the first with the filmmaking team, the second a solo track with comic book writer Darwyn Cooke), the documentaries "The Legion of Doom: The Pathology of the Super Villain," "Comic Book Commentary: Homage to the New Frontier" and "Super Heroes United!: The Complete Justice League History," three bonus episodes of the 'Justice League Unlimited' series ("Dark Heart," "To Another Shore" and "Task Force X"), and a special sneak peek at the upcoming "Batman: Gotham Knight" direct-to-video premiere.
Tech specs include identical 1080p/VC-1 encodes (at 1.78:1) on both the Blu-ray and HD DVD, plus standard Dolby 5.1 Surround tracks (at 640kbps).
Finally, here's a first look at the cover art for the two high-def versions:
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4926/original.jpeg)
Source: High-Def Digest
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Blu-rays made Warner Bros. $63 million more than HD-DVDs last year.
http://tigerweekly.com/article/01-16-2008/7339
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Toshiba HD-XA2 HD DVD Player Wins Sound & Vision Editors' Choice Award
http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/01-16-2008/0004737568&EDATE= (http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/01-16-2008/0004737568&EDATE=)
For 2nd Gen models 2.8 firmware to follow with force 1080p24. Good job to Toshiba for the continued support.
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HD DVD still kickin' with new releases with 85:15 ratio(US Market), for the week of Jan. 13
http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/content_display/home_entertainment/news/e3ie7d46e37694ce94168882debd8437313
"Net HD DVD sales, according to Nielsen, constituted only 15% of hi-def disc sales last week. And the top HD DVD seller, "The Kingdom," sold just 10% as many copies as the top Blu-ray Disc release, "3:10 to Yuma."
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Germany's Senator Entertainment follows Constantin, goes Blu-ray only
http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/01/16/germanys-senator-entertainment-follows-constantin-goes-blu-ray/
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DreamWorks Unveils Specs, Box Art for 'Beowulf' HD DVD
Confirming earlier retailer reports, DreamWorks has officially unveiled a March arrival and full specs for 'Beowulf,' which will hit HD DVD in a new Director's Cut version with hours of added bonus content.
As we first reported late last year, Paramount had alerted retailers to a February 26 debut for the Robert Zemeckis-directed 'Beowulf on HD DVD, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
They've now confirmed the release and issued full specs, which include two-discs of extras. In addition to a never-before-seen Director's Cut, the set includes a 16-part documentary "The Making of 'Beowulf,'" plus a dozen Deleted & Alternate Scenes. All of the bonus content will also be presented in full HD.
Exclusive to the HD DVD will be additional web-enabled content still to be announced.
Tech specs boast 1080p/VC-1 video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio, plus optional Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 Surround dubs and subtitles in English, French and Spanish.
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4936/original.jpeg)
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/DreamWorks/High-Def_Disc_Packaging/Disc_Announcements/DreamWorks_Unveils_Specs,_Box_Art_for_Beowulf_HD_DVD/1381 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/DreamWorks/High-Def_Disc_Packaging/Disc_Announcements/DreamWorks_Unveils_Specs,_Box_Art_for_Beowulf_HD_DVD/1381)
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Pornographic Film Industry Still Firmly Behind HD DVD
Despite all the talk regarding Blu-ray Disc's momentum after Warner Bros. gave its support exclusively to the format, the high-definition format war is far from over. With the overall high-definition market barely a drop in the bucket when compared to DVD sales, there is still a lot of ground still to be claimed.
Analysts looked early to the adult industry as a strong decider of the format war. The adult industry is often credited with giving VHS its support, helping the format to edge out Betamax – and some believe that history may repeat itself with the HD DVD and Blu-ray Disc battle.
Digital Playground founder and director Joone originally backed HD DVD, but at this year’s Adult Entertainment Expo he reportedly told German publication Heise Online that his company will be shifting its support to Blu-ray Disc by the end of the year. Joone also said that Blu-ray Disc movies were selling better than HD DVD, a fact that he attributes to the PlayStation 3.
When reached for comment regarding the report, Digital Playground media relations denied its validity, saying, “This is not accurate. We are currently supporting both formats, HD and Blu-ray.”
Read the complete article here:
http://www.dailytech.com/article.aspx?newsid=10369
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Blu-ray Dominates Disc Sales Chart Post-Warner Announcement
Thu Jan 17, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4943/original.gif)
The Blu-ray camp took a decisive lead in disc sales for the week ending January 13th, the first full week following Warner's announcement that it would abandon its HD DVD support.
Though Blu-ray has outsold HD DVD in overall disc sales by a factor of nearly 2:1 since the start of 2007, last week saw the largest gulf between the two rival formats yet, with Blu-ray commanding an 85% share of all high-def discs sold.
Read the full article HERE. (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Industry_Trends/Disc_Sales/Blu-ray_Dominates_Disc_Sales_Chart_Post-Warner_Announcement/1383)
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(http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c279/SBrooks2006/blu-ray-8515.jpg)
(http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c279/SBrooks2006/blu-ray-top10.jpg)
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i think that, going forward, the comparison we're going to pay attention to is blu-ray and standard dvd sales -- to see if high-def really is hitting its inflection point.
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i think that, going forward, the comparison we're going to pay attention to is blu-ray and standard dvd sales -- to see if high-def really is hitting its inflection point.
Don't expect that Blu-ray will outrun SD-DVD soon in terms of sale, just like SD-DVD did not outrun VCD overnight before.. It's just a matter of educating people about HD and dropping prices of HD softwares and hardwares..
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Or the major studios halting SD DVD releases and going HD only... :-\ :-\ :-\
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"inflection point" doesn't mean that high-def will overtake standard def right away, it points to a change in the curve indicating the start of a long-term trend.
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"inflection point" doesn't mean that high-def will overtake standard def right away, it points to a change in the curve indicating the start of a long-term trend.
You need to review your calculus guys.. ;)
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Hmmm, I smell a impending OT 'repartee.' ;) To stifle that and get back on-track check out this +1 on HD-DVD.
Universal Sets 'American Gangster' HD DVD Date
Fri Jan 18, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4759/original.jpeg)
After teasing us with early specs, Universal has finally announced a February arrival for the Denzel Washington blockbuster 'American Gangster.'
Exclusive to the HD DVD is a U-Control picture-in-picture video commentary featuring Scott, Zaillan and stars Washington and Russell Crowe. Web-enabled content includes a bonus deleted scene "Frank & Eva's Wedding," the ability to share your favorite MyScenes selections with other online users, interactive polling and access to movie trailers for other Universal HD DVD titles.
Read more HERE. (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Disc_Announcements/Universal_Sets_American_Gangster_HD_DVD_Date/1380)
(http://mathworld.wolfram.com/images/eps-gif/InflectionPoint_1000.gif)
http://mathworld.wolfram.com/InflectionPoint.html (http://mathworld.wolfram.com/InflectionPoint.html)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inflection_point (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inflection_point)
http://encarta.msn.com/dictionary_1861692446/inflection_point.html (http://encarta.msn.com/dictionary_1861692446/inflection_point.html)
http://www.ask.com/reference/dictionary/ahdict/37965/inflection+point (http://www.ask.com/reference/dictionary/ahdict/37965/inflection+point)
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/inflection%20point (http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/inflection%20point)
http://www.mirriamwebster.com/dictionary/inflection%20point (http://www.mirriamwebster.com/dictionary/inflection%20point) ;D ;) 8)
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You need to review your calculus guys.. ;)
Oo nga.. hehehe..
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Fire 'em up guys, positive news again from Amazon!
Source: High Def Digest
Up to 53 Percent Off Blu-ray, HD DVD "Drama Hits" at Amazon
Sun Jan 20, 2008 at 01:28 PM ET
In their latest high-def disc sale, Amazon is offering up to 53% off a selection of dramatic titles from Warner Home Video.
The new promo, which launched this weekend, includes two dozen titles on both Blu-ray and HD DVD.
Among the titles being discounted on both formats are 'GoodFellas,' 'Blood Diamond,' 'The Searchers' and 'The Phantom of the Opera' (for a complete list, click the links below).
At press time there was no word on how this deal would be offered by Amazon, though Amazon is billing this one as a limited time offer.
As always, you'll find up-to-the-minute information on these and other sales spotted in-store and online in the Blu-ray bargains and HD DVD bargains areas of our forums.
53% off Bluray Drama Hits (http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fgp%2Ffeature.html%3Fie%3DUTF8%26docId%3D1000189571%26pf%5Frd%5Fm%3DATVPDKIKX0DER%26pf%5Frd%5Fs%3Dright-2%26pf%5Frd%5Fr%3D1P59PVDZ3ZSVBQMDN45C%26pf%5Frd%5Ft%3D101%26pf%5Frd%5Fp%3D358876001%26pf%5Frd%5Fi%3D193640011&tag=panandscathed-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325)
53% off HD-DVD Drama Hits (http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fgp%2Ffeature.html%3Fie%3DUTF8%26docId%3D1000189601%26pf%5Frd%5Fm%3DATVPDKIKX0DER%26pf%5Frd%5Fs%3Dcenter-1%26pf%5Frd%5Fr%3D1XT294J8DV9AJ2WZ4H1M%26pf%5Frd%5Ft%3D101%26pf%5Frd%5Fp%3D359057401%26pf%5Frd%5Fi%3D193642011&tag=panandscathed-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325)
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Fire 'em up guys, positive news again from Amazon!
Source: High Def Digest
Up to 53 Percent Off Blu-ray, HD DVD "Drama Hits" at Amazon
Sun Jan 20, 2008 at 01:28 PM ET
In their latest high-def disc sale, Amazon is offering up to 53% off a selection of dramatic titles from Warner Home Video.
The new promo, which launched this weekend, includes two dozen titles on both Blu-ray and HD DVD.
Among the titles being discounted on both formats are 'GoodFellas,' 'Blood Diamond,' 'The Searchers' and 'The Phantom of the Opera' (for a complete list, click the links below).
At press time there was no word on how this deal would be offered by Amazon, though Amazon is billing this one as a limited time offer.
As always, you'll find up-to-the-minute information on these and other sales spotted in-store and online in the Blu-ray bargains and HD DVD bargains areas of our forums.
53% off Bluray Drama Hits (http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fgp%2Ffeature.html%3Fie%3DUTF8%26docId%3D1000189571%26pf%5Frd%5Fm%3DATVPDKIKX0DER%26pf%5Frd%5Fs%3Dright-2%26pf%5Frd%5Fr%3D1P59PVDZ3ZSVBQMDN45C%26pf%5Frd%5Ft%3D101%26pf%5Frd%5Fp%3D358876001%26pf%5Frd%5Fi%3D193640011&tag=panandscathed-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325)
53% off HD-DVD Drama Hits (http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fgp%2Ffeature.html%3Fie%3DUTF8%26docId%3D1000189601%26pf%5Frd%5Fm%3DATVPDKIKX0DER%26pf%5Frd%5Fs%3Dcenter-1%26pf%5Frd%5Fr%3D1XT294J8DV9AJ2WZ4H1M%26pf%5Frd%5Ft%3D101%26pf%5Frd%5Fp%3D359057401%26pf%5Frd%5Fi%3D193642011&tag=panandscathed-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325)
Wow. So soon after their last promo ended(which was last Sat.)... good to know. Hopefully they do so on Blockbusters.
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Thousands Sign "Save HD DVD" Petition (UPDATED)
Mon Jan 21, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
Over six thousand HD DVD supporters have signed an online petition urging Warner Home Entertainment to reconsider its decision to abandon the HD DVD format.
First posted on January 5th, the petition takes issue with Warner's earlier press statements that the "consumer has clearly chosen Blu-ray," pointing to the HD DVD format's lower hardware prices and "better technological capabilities" as more consumer-friendly than its high-def rival.
Supporters hope that the petition will convince Warner to reverse its decision, and that it will help prove to HD DVD-backing studios Universal and Paramount that the format still has supporters.
UPDATE: (Jan 21, 6:00pm ET) Several readers have written in to point out that HD DVD fans aren't the only ones to have set up online petitions in the wake of Warner's announcement. Several other petitions have been set up by early adopters urging Paramount, Universal and Toshiba to drop their HD DVD support, back Blu-ray and bring the high-def format war to a swift end.
At press time, the "Let HD DVD Die" petition had garnered the most signatures of the pro-Blu-ray petitions, with over one thousand signatures.
SAVE HD-DVD (http://www.petitiononline.com/SAVEHDD/)
LET HD-DVD DIE (http://www.petitiononline.com/HDVDeath/)
Source: High-Def Digest
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(http://thedigitalbits.com/articles/miscgfx2/hdmarketsdec07jan08.jpg)
The data does NOT include sales of Sony's PlayStation 3 or the HD-DVD add-on drive for Microsoft's Xbox 360. These are stand-alone, set-top players only.
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But the most striking revelation in the data is the change in the hardware sales ratios between the first and second weeks of January (ending 1/5 and 1/12), reflecting the impact of Warner's announcement (and the mainstream media reaction). The graphs below show player sales for each format both before and after Warner's 1/4 press release...
(http://img293.imageshack.us/img293/7969/hdmarketsdjan081st2weekro2.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
As you can see, HD-DVD player sales dropped dramatically in the week after Warner's announcement, while Blu-ray Disc player sales nearly doubled over the same period.
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Warner Extends HD DVD Release Delay to Catalog Titles
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Street_Date_Changes/Warner_Extends_HD_DVD_Release_Delay_to_Catalog_Titles/1386
"At the time, it seemed that catalog titles would continue to be released concurrently on both next gen formats through May, but the studio now tells us that it's expanding its strategy to include catalog titles too, with the HD DVD versions of all of its remaining titles through the June 1 cut-off also receiving a three-week release delay."
baka Twister na yung last HD-DVD ng Warner ^_^
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there's a rumor that the PS3 will get another price cut between now and end of feb to coincide with the release of some of their top games like Gran Turismo 5 and Grand Theft Auto 4.
this will certainly boost the PS3 sales and increase the install base of bluray players
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there's a rumor that the PS3 will get another price cut between now and end of feb to coincide with the release of some of their top games like Gran Turismo 5 and Grand Theft Auto 4.
this will certainly boost the PS3 sales and increase the install base of bluray players
Unfortunately it looks like just some posting on some forums, the source is specifically CheapAssGamer site, which says a specific date on January 28 hehe
anyways back to HD news...
Major Chicagoland retailer drops HD DVD support
http://www.tgdaily.com/content/view/35721/117/
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well, of course PS3 sales will only boost the BluRay market dominance. perhaps that is why the 40GB SKU comes with the Spidey3 BluRay, marketing scheme to get these gamers into BluRay. if they indeed lower the PS3 price, it will not only help them in the console wars, it will also follow the trend of HD players (both bluray and hd-dvd) prices going down
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The Samsung BD-UP5000 to be discontinued in May
While we've become accustomed to Blu-ray players being released every six months, it's a little ridiculous when we're forced to wait for a new player longer than it's on the market. Eventually we expect the cycle to slow down -- like when BD Live players are out for example -- and many believed that the Samsung BD-UP5000 could be one of those players based on promises when announced. Once you have an Ethernet port for internet content, REON video processing, internal decoding and bitstream support for every codec, discrete analog output, as well as HDMI 1.3, what else could possibly warrant a mid year revamp? We suspect the problem is that the player isn't delivering, and on top of that, we don't think it's Samsung's fault. You see, just like the LG BH200, the BD-UP5000 is based on Broadcom's Reference design BCM97440, and the word on the street is that it isn't ever going to deliver. So it'd make sense that Sammy would change the platform for one that's actually able to get the job done. So yeah, this Broadcom bit is just speculation, but we did contact the outfit to figure out what the deal was, and while it was very responsive at first, as soon as we asked about the troubles with the BCM97400, it must'a lost our email address (or maybe its servers have been down for a week). The good news is that Samsung doesn't see the BD-UP5500 as a replacement, and promises a suitable replacement for the high-end dual-format customer in the second half of '08.
http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/23/the-samsung-bd-up5000-to-be-discontinued-in-may/
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Upcoming content for Blu...
'Hitman' Blu-ray to Include First-Ever "Digital Copy"
Thu Jan 24, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
(http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4974/original.jpeg)
Fox has released final specs for the March Blu-ray debut of 'Hitman,' promising a fully stocked supplements package and a format-first "digital copy" of the film.
As we first reported last week, the studio will bring an unrated version of the $100 million-grossing 'Hitman' to Blu-ray on March 11, day-and-date with the DVD.
Full specs are now in, with the set boasting a wealth of additional content. Extras shared between the Blu-ray and DVD versions include four making-of featurettes ("In the Crosshairs," "Digital Hits," "Weapons of Destruction," "Settling the Score"), deleted scenes, an alternate ending and a gag reel.
In a high-def first, the 'Hitman' Blu-ray will also come with a bonus second DVD disc, which contains a standard-definition Digital Copy of the movie, enabling viewers to watch it on portable devices, such as a PC, iPod or iPhone.
Previously announced tech specs include 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and audio flavors in DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround (48kHz/24-bit) and French and Spanish dubs in Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround.
Finally, Fox has revealed a first look at the title's high-def box cover art, which touts both the unrated cut and the digital copy:
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4947/original.jpeg)
Source: HighDef Digest
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On the red camp...
DreamWorks Unveils Specs, Box Art for 'Bee Movie' HD DVD
Thu Jan 24, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
DreamWorks has revealed full details for its March debut of 'Bee Movie,' which is due to hit HD DVD with a hive's worth of bonus features and high-def exclusives.
As we first reported last month, the studio previously announced a March 11 HD DVD debut for the $150 million-plus grossing Jerry Seinfeld animated adventure. Now the full specs are in, with Paramount pulling out all the stops for a two-disc HD DVD release, packed with extras.
Shared with the two-disc DVD edition (hitting stores day-and-date) are audio commentary with Seinfeld and the filmmakers, four making-of featurettes ("Jerry's Flight Over Cannes," "Inside The Hive: The Cast of Bee Movie," "Tech of Bee Movie," "Meet Barry B. Benson"), deleted scenes and an alternate endings with optional commentary, a music video, "TV Juniors" shorts that first aired on NBC, and a suite of "DreamWorks Animation Kids" interactive activities ("The Buzz About Bees," "The Ow! Meter," "That's Un-BEE-lievable!", "Pollination Practice," "Be A Bee").
Exclusive to the HD DVD will be several additional features, including "The Animators' Corner" a picture-in-picture storyboard reel that runs the length of the film, "Barry's Trivia Track" pop-up fun facts and "My Menus" which allow users to customize the disc's navigation based on their favorite character. Additional web-enabled content is set to include "The World Of Bees" movie guide with biographies of talent and characters from the film, the "Build-A-Bee Avatar" and "Barry's Digital Coloring Book."
Tech specs include 1080p video and Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 Surround audio and subtitle tracks in English, French and Spanish (no high-res audio options have yet been announced).
Finally, DreamWorks has revealed the final box art for 'Bee Movie' on HD DVD:
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4988/original.jpeg)
Source: Highdef Digest
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US Market - Week Ending 1/20/2008
(http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w184/darkblueme/27jan2008.jpg)
(http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w184/darkblueme/27jan2008b.jpg)
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Blu spike may be attributed to 'other' tactical factors. Nevertheless, there's no denying that the Red camp has been underperforming vs. team Blu. Read on - from HighDef Digest:
NPD: Free Blu-ray Players Contributed to Weekly Hardware Lead
Fri Jan 25, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
That 93% lead for Blu-ray in hardware sales in the week following Warner's exclusivity announcement? NPD (the research group that tallied the numbers) says don't read too much into it.
That's according to a new article at BetaNews, which quotes an NPD official as saying that a series of free player bundles led to inflated weekly numbers for team Blu.
Explaining that the weekly data had not been approved for release by the research group, Stephen Baker, vice president of industry analysis for NPD, cautioned against making any long-term judgments based on the weekly numbers, explaining that NPD sees large fluctuations in numbers like these each week.
Baker went on to attribute the week's Blu-ray gains to several deals from Sony, Sharp and Panasonic that saw free Blu-ray players bundled with the purchase of new HDTVs. He said that player sales for Samsung (which did not offer a free Blu-ray player deal) were "almost non-existent" for the week.
All of this is not to say that it was a good week for HD DVD hardware sales. Although Baker declined to get into specifics, he did confirm a drop in overall HD DVD player sales for the week.
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Well the woes continue for the red camp - here's some HD-DVD news for Jack Ryan fanatics:
'Jack Ryan' HD DVD Set Gets a New Date
Fri Jan 25, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
(http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3955/original.jpeg)
After a delay of several months, Paramount has set a March re-launch for 'The Jack Ryan Collection' on HD DVD.
As previously reported, the 'Jack Ryan' set was due to hit HD DVD late last October, only to be derailed at the last minute when early copies shipped to retailers and reviewers listed extras on the box that were not found on the actual discs. Paramount subsequently pulled the set, with no new date in sight.
The studio has now rescheduled 'The Jack Ryan Collection' for March 25, but fans hoping for a bumped up package of supplements will be disappointed. The box again contains all four films in the series ('The Hunt for Red October,' 'Patriot Games,' 'Clear & Present Danger,' 'The Sum of All Fears') but it will come without any announced bonus content.
Tech specs remain consistent with the previous release, including 1080p video and audio flavors in Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround and Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 Surround.
Suggested retail for the box set also remains a suggested $99.95.
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One of my 'fave' movies, particularly because of Julia Ormond. First Knight coming to Bluray this April.
Read HERE. (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Sony/Disc_Announcements/Sony_Sets_First_Knight_Blu-ray_for_April/1404)
(http://faculty.smu.edu/bwheeler/kinga/fnl&g.JPG)
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Another big budget title coming to BD:
(http://friendsofdoom.com/gz/img/post/news/2007-07-12-GoldenCompass_Kidman-500.jpg)
New Line Plans 'Golden Compass' Blu-ray
New Line has revealed plans to bring the big-budget fantasy 'The Golden Compass' to Blu-ray this April. Thanks to a splashy, two-page advertisement in next week's edition of Home Media Magazine (which just hit the web), we can tell you that the Blu-ray edition of the Nicole Kidman-Daniel Craig starrer will arrive on April 29, day-and-date with the standard-def DVD.
According to the ad, the Blu-ray will come billed as a "Platinum Edition Two-Disc Set" that contains over two hours of bonus features, including the featurettes "Behind the Scenes," "Lyra's World" and "Origins," plus more to be announced. Exclusive to the Blu-ray will be a picture-in-picture visual commentary.
There were no further tech specs or extras details available at press time, but the studio tells us that the official media release is due this coming Monday, so we'll certainly keep you posted. New Line has set a suggested list price for $39.98 for the two-disc Blu-ray.
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Woolworths backs blu-ray format over HD-DVD
http://www.woolworthsmediacentre.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=76&Itemid=33
"Woolworths, one of the biggest retailers of DVDs in the UK, has become the first major retailer to solely back one of the new high definition DVD formats.
The high street firm has announced that it will only stock Blu-Ray high definition DVDs from March, with HD-DVDs being dropped from stores to be sold online.
The move comes after Blu-Ray DVDs outsold HD-DVDs by ten-to-one in Woolies stores over Christmas. "
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Confirmed: Circuit City’s HD DVD Players On Clearance
(http://img176.imageshack.us/img176/7061/resized160x120012708170qg8.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
We had heard Circuit City was clearancing their stock of HD DVD players, so we went to check for ourselves. We did indeed find all of the third gen HD DVD players on clearance(red tag). With the HD-A3 for $100 and the HD-A30 for $149, which are killer prices that even beat Amazon’s. We do wonder if this this is the beginning of the end of HD DVD players for sale at B&M stores
http://formatwarcentral.com/index.php/2008/01/27/confirmed-circuit-citys-hd-dvd-players-on-clearance/
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Circuit City dropping HD-DVD?
http://www.1080living.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=17
Circuit City in a not so surprising move has discontinued the HD-DVD format in favor of expanding it's Blu-Ray lineup.
Circuit City-long a unofficial supporter of Blu-Ray has always carried HD-DVD in limited quantities vs. it's Blu-Ray inventory. Sources say that this move is not a direct response to Warner studios announcements but more related to the lopsided sales makeup of Blu-Ray vs. HD-DVD which in the past weeks has been 85:15 in favor of Blu-Ray says several industry sources
1080living.com contacted 7 Circuit City locations. 5 would not comment citing policies against disclosing merchandising changes, while 2 confirmed that the company has discontinued the HD-DVD format. One store manger informed us ," This move is for business reasons only as Circuit City is committed to the next generation of Hi Def DVD viewing. Based on company sales of the two formats which consisted of 87 percent for Blu-Disc and 13% for HD the company felt that now should be the time to fully commit our resources to one format. Circuit City is the leader of technology and this move again reinforces out commitment to offering out customers the very best available. We expect our competitors to follow suit shortly."
As a result, Circuit City stores will be placing all HD-DVD players on clearance and though no specific price has been announced we were told to expect players in the $100 range.
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One more time! Links below to Amazon.
New Amazon Sale on Warner Blu-ray, HD DVD Titles
Sun Jan 27, 2008 at 06:15 PM ET
(http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5008/original.jpeg)
Another week, another Amazon high-def disc sale. This time, the web giant is offering yet another collection of titles from Warner Home Video at up to 53% off list price.
The new promo, which builds on last week's "drama hits" sale, includes more than two dozen Warner titles across various genres on both Blu-ray and HD DVD.
Among the titles being discounted on both formats are 'Superman Returns,' 'The Road Warrior,' 'Training Day' and 'Enter the Dragon' (for a complete list, click the links below).
At press time there was no word on how this deal would be offered by Amazon, though Amazon is billing this one as a limited time offer.
As always, you'll find up-to-the-minute information on these and other sales spotted in-store and online in the Blu-ray bargains and HD DVD bargains areas of our forums.
BLU RAY SALE (http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fgp%2Ffeature.html%3Fie%3DUTF8%26docId%3D1000189571%26pf%5Frd%5Fm%3DATVPDKIKX0DER%26pf%5Frd%5Fs%3Dright-2%26pf%5Frd%5Fr%3D1P59PVDZ3ZSVBQMDN45C%26pf%5Frd%5Ft%3D101%26pf%5Frd%5Fp%3D358876001%26pf%5Frd%5Fi%3D193640011&tag=panandscathed-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325)
HD-DVD SALE (http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fgp%2Ffeature.html%3Fie%3DUTF8%26docId%3D1000189601%26pf%5Frd%5Fm%3DATVPDKIKX0DER%26pf%5Frd%5Fs%3Dcenter-1%26pf%5Frd%5Fr%3D1XT294J8DV9AJ2WZ4H1M%26pf%5Frd%5Ft%3D101%26pf%5Frd%5Fp%3D359057401%26pf%5Frd%5Fi%3D193642011&tag=panandscathed-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325)
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http://www.thedigitalbits.com/#mytwocents
So there's more bad news for Toshiba today. To quote a character from the Coen Brothers' O Brother, Where Art Thou?, the manufacturer has been told to "stay out of the Woolsworth!" after their HD-DVD format was booted from the retailer's store locations in the UK. Woolworth announced today that they only plan to carry the format online from now on, citing the 10 to 1 sales results of Blu-ray at the retailer's stores over the holidays. Toshiba quickly responded: “While we're disappointed by Woolworth's decision, it is extremely early to spot which format will eventually win." ??? ??? ???
You know, Toshiba seems defiantly willing to keep this fight going indefinitely, no matter how bad things get for HD-DVD. One wonders. however, how their shareholders are going to react to all this. Word is the company's quarterly earnings are due out in the next couple days, and given the events of the last few months, they can't be pretty.
To get a better sense of how things are going for Toshiba right now, we suggest you visit your local Best Buy and Circuit City stores. Your own experiences may vary, but we're getting regular reports now of low or no HD-DVD player stock at many locations around the country, and we've now gotten many e-mails from employees at both chains saying that they've been told that the players aren't going to be restocked at their stores. Other sites, like 1080living and Format War Central, are reporting this too. And pictures of HD-DVD player clearance tags in Circuit City stores have appeared in the forums over on Blu-ray.com and at Format War as well.
(http://img299.imageshack.us/img299/782/circuitcityclearance2b8km6.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
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Here's another fatalistic view of HD DVDs predicament. Research firm Gartner says that by the end of 2008, Blu-ray will have won the high-def format war and HD DVD's price cuts are merely "useless resistance."
Gartner: HD DVD price cuts only prolong agony
Dan Nystedt
(http://www.digitaljournal.com/images/photo/hddvddead.jpg)
Price cuts by Toshiba on its HD DVD players in the U.S. earlier this month may prove to be "useless resistance" in the battle against the rival Blu-ray Disc optical disc format, according to Gartner.
The market research company expects Blu-ray Disc to win the battle against HD DVD (high definition digital video disc) in the consumer market by the end of 2008, becoming the next generation replacement for DVDs.
Toshiba's price cuts came after a major Hollywood studio, Warner Bros., announced it would shift from producing in both formats to just Blu-ray alone, expanding the disc format's advantage in the number of movies and other content. Five of the seven major Hollywood studios now back Blu-ray Disc exclusively, while the HD DVD camp has just two, Paramount and Universal.
"Gartner believes that Toshiba's price-cutting may prolong HD DVD's life a little, but the limited line-up of film titles will inflict fatal damage on the format. Gartner expects that, by the end of 2008, Blu-ray will be the winning format in the consumer market, and the war will be over, wrote analyst Hiroyuki Shimizu in Gartner's Semiconductor DQ Monday Report.
To view the entire article, click HERE. (http://computerworld.com.sg/ShowPage.aspx?pagetype=2&articleid=7467&pubid=3&tab=Home&issueid=123)
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From the above article.
"Should HD DVD lose the format war, Microsoft will have to start using Blu-ray Disc on the Xbox 360 in order to allow users to play high definition video games. It's not an outcome the U.S. company would likely want to see. Blu-ray Disc was developed by Sony and is an integral part of the PlayStation 3 game console, a rival to the Xbox 360.
The addition of the high definition drives to the two game consoles has given game makers a new way to add content to their digital games, because both formats have far more storage capacity than traditional DVDs."
Whoever wrote this piece has absolutely ZILCH knowledge of how an Xbox360 actually works as a gaming console...and all other paragraphs written have already been discussed to death all over the forums for the past 3 weeks. Any original thoughts????
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^^^ He he :D I agree with you. Also, I'd rather have Microsoft require game developers install their game to the 360's HDD if a game comes in more that 1 DVD. Granted, not all 360s have Hard disk drives, but then again, it would probably be cheaper installing Hard drives than installing a BD drive. Heck, PC games come "only" in DVDs! ;D
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Personally, I would be happy to see a BD add-on drive for the Xbox360. That would make the Xbox360 a dual format player for movies. Nice. You think Sony would like that idea?
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I would say BDA would like that, Panasonic holds more BD patents than Sony hehe naging front face lang ang Sony dahil sa BD in the PS3
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MY TWO CENTS - 1/29/08 - by Digital Bits editor Bill Hunt
First up today, we've obtained the latest NPD Group hardware sales numbers from our industry sources. This would be for the week ending 1/19 - the second week after Warner's announcement, and the first full week reflecting Toshiba's 50% off price reductions. Here's how the numbers look. Note that we've included the previous week (ending 1/12) as well for comparison, and that these numbers reflect sales of stand-alone, non-combo units (game system devices like the PS3 or Xbox add-on drive are not included)...
(http://img179.imageshack.us/img179/8099/hdmarketsdjan082nd3rdweom0.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
Here's how the specific unit sales numbers looked for the week ending 1/19...
Blu-ray Disc - 16,496 units
HD-DVD - 8,639 units
So it would certainly appear that Toshiba's price cutting has at least contributed to a modest rebound in the number of HD-DVD units moved, though sources are telling us that Blu-ray earned approximately 83% of all the actual dollars spent on high-def players for the week. Here are those totals...
Blu-ray Disc - $6,033,540
HD-DVD - $1,182,248
Again, that would seem to reflect the fact that Toshiba's prices had been heavily discounted. The dollar volume percentage is key, because that's where retailers are going to see profits. As such, they're obviously making more money on each Blu-ray player sold than each HD-DVD player sold right now.
FYI, we'd like to take this opportunity to remind everyone that two weeks of data points does not equal a trend, just a very small line. We're sure that all parties involved (including the NPD Group) will make their own comments shortly.
Meanwhile, after yesterday's photos of Circuit City clearance sales on HD-DVD players, we've got more pictures this morning along the same lines. Our friend Dave over at TV Shows on DVD sent over these shots of Toshiba HD-A3s he spotted in the clearance isle at a Wal-Mart store in Memphis
(http://img179.imageshack.us/img179/8404/hda3walmart02fd3b2dd9.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)(http://img179.imageshack.us/img179/9567/hda3walmart03fdf1ctj9.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
And here's something interesting - it seems that at the German retailer Saturn, Sony is offering consumers 150 Euros off the price of their BDP-S300 Blu-ray player (effectively making the price 349 Euros), with the trade in of an HD-DVD player. Plus you get 8 free Blu-ray movies. This ad scan was posted over at HiFi-Forum.de (credit to "heimkino-fan")...
(http://img179.imageshack.us/img179/6414/150europlayertradeze0.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
http://www.thedigitalbits.com/#mytwocents
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I am sensing that Sony is luring (buying or whatever) appliance store worldwide. Here in the Pinas, at SM North EDSA, SM appliance Audio/Video store was renovated recently and when it opened again, whoa, it is Sony exclusive already displaying only Sony products. What caught my attention are their bluray players. How do they retail them? Make a guess. . . ??? ??? ;D Mas mahal pa sa 32" na branded LCD HDTV. He he he!
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I am sensing that Sony is luring (buying or whatever) appliance store worldwide. Here in the Pinas, at SM North EDSA, SM appliance Audio/Video store was renovated recently and when it opened again, whoa, it is Sony exclusive already displaying only Sony products. What caught my attention are their bluray players. How do they retail them? Make a guess. . . ??? ??? ;D Mas mahal pa sa 32" na branded LCD HDTV. He he he!
Mas mura pa nga mag import ka galing US kaysa bumili dito. 110v at walang warranty lang.
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Sonic's Scenarist now Blu-ray, digital distribution format only
http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/01/30/sonics-scenarist-now-blu-ray-digital-distribution-format-only/
"Sonic Solutions has announced it will no longer sell the HD DVD version of its Scenarist professional authoring software, focusing instead on Blu-ray and digital distribution. Sonic -- provider of consumer authoring software under the Roxio brand (still w/ that sweet HD DVD flavor, at least for now) -- plans to expand its features to ease creation of BD Live features, and package high definition video for delivery on any of the many platforms popping up. It's not all bad for red fans, Sonic promises to continue customer support and product updates "where appropriate" for its HD DVD package, and a special promotion for users to switch to Blu-ray, although the terms aren't mentioned."
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Early Details For 'National Treasure: Book of Secrets' Blu-ray
Tue Jan 29, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
(http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:8b0cPkwPQq_iIM:http://www.wallpaperez.net/wallpaper/movie/National-Treasure-2-1243.jpg)
Disney says it's planning to bring the blockbuster 'National Treasure: Book of Secrets' to Blu-ray this Spring in a fully-loaded special edition.
Although the studio stopped short of issuing an exact street date for $200 million-grossing Nicolas Cage adventure, it's telling retailers to expect a Blu-ray edition sometime in late Spring, day-and-date with a matching standard-def DVD.
Extras shared between both versions already look quite impressive, with an audio commentary from director Jon Turteltaub, a suite of eight making-of featurettes ("Secrets of a Sequel," "The Book of Secrets: On Location," "Street Stunts: Creating the London Chase," "Inside the Library of Congress," "Underground Action," "Cover Story: Crafting the Presidents' Book," "Evolution of a Golden City"), deleted scenes and "The Treasure Reel" bloopers & outtakes.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray will be the "Book of History: The Fact and Fiction of National Treasure 2" featurette, and a pair of additional deleted scenes.
Tech specs for the Blu-ray are set to include a 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer, and an uncompressed PCM 5.1 Surround track (at 48kHz/24-bit).
Disney has set a suggested list price of $34.95 for the Blu-ray.
Source: Highdefdigest
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National Geographic Makes Move to Blu-ray Exclusivity
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/National_Geographic/Industry_Trends/National_Geographic_Makes_Move_to_Blu-ray_Exclusivity/1417
"Warner's move to Blu-ray exclusivity has swayed yet another distribution partner to follow suit, with National Geographic confirming that it too will drop HD DVD support in favor of Blu-ray."
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Here's another Red to Blue transition...
Surround Records Announces Dual-Format Format
Thu Jan 31, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
(http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5010/original.jpeg)
Indie distributor Surround Records has announced it will begin rolling out Blu-ray editions of its previously-issued HD DVD titles this Spring.
The previously HD DVD-exclusive label has issued a half a dozen multichannel audio releases since making its high-def debut this past summer with 'Uncommon Bach.' It now says it will expand its high-def disc support to include Blu-ray in addition to HD DVD.
Though multichannel audio releases (sans any significant video material) are fairly common on standard-def DVD, Surround Records is currently the only label actively releasing titles on the two next-gen disc formats.
As press time there was no word on which of Surround's titles would be first to hit Blu-ray, nor had an exact timeframe for the Blu-ray releases been set.
Source: HighDef Digest
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(http://img168.imageshack.us/img168/831/piechartsrd8.jpg)
(http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/7850/top10zl6.jpg)
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IMATION SCRAPS HD DVD BLANK MEDIA production, will back Blu-ray exclusively under its TDK brand.
http://www.warren-news.com/
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Digital Playground Promotes New Blu-ray Releases
Adult film studio Digital Playground has taken out a full-page ad in the latest issue of Home Media Magazine in order to promote their upcoming Blu-ray releases. Shown in the ad are Blu-ray versions of 'Island Fever 4', 'Pirates', and 'Babysitters'. The unmissable tag line in the ad "So Real You Can Feel It" is in the trademark blue color accustom to Blu-ray.
Digital Playground until recently only released high definition films in the rival HD DVD format. During AVN (an adult movie conference held directly after CES), they noted that the Warner Brother announcement forced them to rethink their position and that they would soon begin to release on Blu-ray. These titles appear to be the first of many from the adult film studio.
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=920
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More Dragon Ball Z for Blu-ray
FUNimation Entertainment has announced that they will bring two more Dragon Ball Z films to Blu-ray. Following the success of their 'Dragon Ball Z: Broly Double Feature' release, FUNimation will release a new disc with Dragon Ball Z films 'Dead Zone' and 'World's Strongest' together. No specs have been announced at this time, but expect similar treatment as their previous release, which includes 1080p AVC and a Dolby Digital soundtrack.
FUNimation has also announced that they will bring the live action film 'Shinobi' to Blu-ray as well. This title was previously released on HD DVD in Japan, but will be on Blu-ray in the US. No specs have been announced at this time.
Additionally, Anime distributor ADV Films has aligned themselves in the Blu-ray camp, and will begin releasing titles in the format some time this year. No titles have been announced at this time, but the company has admitted that the decision to release on Blu-ray may affect their release schedule as high definition transfers are made.
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=914
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High-Def Format War: The Week That Was
Fri Feb 01, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5046/original.jpeg)
There was good (and bad) news for fans of both high-def disc formats this week, assuring plenty of continued back and forth in the ever-heated Format War Smackdown area of our forums.
On the Blu-ray side, the fallout from Warner's decision to drop HD DVD support continued, with distribution partner National Geographic confirming that it would follow Warner to Blu-ray exclusivity, and Gartner research predicting a Blu-ray win in the format war by late 2008.
On the HD DVD side, Toshiba announced plans for a multi-million dollar Super Bowl ad, while format backers touted gains that saw HD DVD increasing its hardware market share for the week ending Jan 19 to 34% (up from just 7% the week prior).
Internationally, Blu-ray supporters pointed to an announcement from UK retailer Woolworth's that it would stop selling HD DVD discs as a major European victory, while HD DVD fans trumpeted word that two Italian distributors (Dolmen Video and Mikado) would back HD DVD only.
Meanwhile, back here in the states, steep discounts on HD DVD players at Circuit City lead to a series of reports that the retailer was planning to drop support of the HD DVD format. (A rep for the retailer was later quoted as saying the company planned to remain platform agnostic.)
Source: HighDef Digest
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HD-DVD GAIN IN MARKET SHARE AFTER HUGE DROP!
HD-DVD recovered some market share after a huge drop a week ago, according to sales figure from NPD. And the figures do not include yet sales figures from giant Amazon.com!
http://www.dvdtown.com/news/hd-dvd-gain-in-market-share-after-huge-drop/5172
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The studios are more interested in the sales of software than hardware. The installed base for blu is already too big to overtake.
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The studios are more interested in the sales of software than hardware. The installed base for blu is already too big to overtake.
Yeah! I do agree with you that studios are more interested in the sales of software. And those who bought HD player surely will buy the film software to be played by the player. If HD-DVD continues to gain market share in the player, and there are giants like amazon.com ( http://www.dvdtown.com/news/amazoncom-we-will-continue-full-support-of-both-formats/5174) who continue to respect the customers/consumers decision, studios will eventually think twice to support both formats. As far as the majority of the consumer is concern, both formats existing is to their advantage.
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Speaking of Amazon's continued support to the Red camp... see them WALK the TALK below. ;)
Amazon Offers Select HD DVD Titles at 57 Percent Off List
Sun Feb 03, 2008 at 02:26 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5066/original.jpeg)
In the latest in a series of high-def disc deals, Amazon is offering at least 50% off dozens of HD DVD titles from Universal Pictures.
The promo was launched Sunday by the web merchant, and includes a list of popular titles from the studio, totaling 103 in all.
Among the discs included in the offer are such fan favorites as 'Shaun of the Dead,' 'Elizabeth' and 'Inside Man,' the majority of which are being offered for just $14.95 a piece (view complete list of titles and prices).
This new HD DVD sale at Amazon comes on the heels of a similar sale from Warner on both formats. (That earlier Warner sale continues, though prices have creeped up slightly since its launch last weekend.)
At press time there was no word on how long this latest HD DVD deal would be offered by Amazon, although it's being billed as a limited time offer. For a full list of eligible titles and more information, click the link to Amazon below.
50% OFF HD DVDs (http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fgp%2Ffeature.html%3Fie%3DUTF8%26plgroup%3D1%26docId%3D1000195491%26plpage%3D1&tag=panandscathed-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325)
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Budget Label Platinum Disc to Release Blu-ray Titles
http://formatwarcentral.com/index.php/2008/02/01/budget-label-platinum-disc-to-release-blu-ray-titles/
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Yeah! I do agree with you that studios are more interested in the sales of software. And those who bought HD player surely will buy the film software to be played by the player. If HD-DVD continues to gain market share in the player, and there are giants like amazon.com ( http://www.dvdtown.com/news/amazoncom-we-will-continue-full-support-of-both-formats/5174) who continue to respect the customers/consumers decision, studios will eventually think twice to support both formats. As far as the majority of the consumer is concern, both formats existing is to their advantage.
I hope Warner agreed with that position but apparently not. Their position that having two incompatible formats contributed to consumer confusion, hence indecision whether to jump into HD. Warner, according to them, chose to side with blu because of "consumer sentiments". You may not agree with me but those figures will only worsen for HD DVD when Warner officially pulls out.
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Is Onkyo planning to abandon HD DVD?
As if the recent Warner Home Video decision wasn’t enough of a blow for the format, the HD DVD camp now appears to be losing the support of one of its few hardware supporters outside of Toshiba. Regularly listed as a major supporter of the format on literature produced by the HD DVD Promotion Group, specialist Japanese hi-fi/AV manufacturer Onkyo finally debuted a standalone HD DVD player towards the end of 2007.
Based around Toshiba’s HD-XE1, Onkyo’s DV-HD805 almost went unnoticed by many in the UK due to the limited numbers of machines brought to the UK market and the fact that, according to the company, the vast majority of these were sold through pre-orders. And it looks like that will be the lot. A spokesperson close to the company has revealed that no further stock will follow, stating, ‘given the current, multiple uncertainties surrounding the Blu-ray vs HD DVD issue Onkyo has decided against bringing any further DV-HD805s to the UK’. This isn’t particularly good news for a format struggling to demonstrate industry support in the wake of recent desertions to the competing Blu-ray format.
But the bad news for the HD DVD camp doesn’t stop there. Toshiba’s strategy throughout the winter of slashing player prices has had a series knock-on effect for other manufacturers. It appears that it is this, more than any other situation that is causing Onkyo to re-evaluate its position in the hi-def format war. Speaking exclusively to HCC, a representative of the company claimed that ‘Onkyo brings its talents to bear where it thinks it can add value to a given product category. If a category becomes commoditised – as this sector shows signs of becoming – there’s less reason to commit huge resources to it when they may be better employed elsewhere’. So it seems that Toshiba’s desperate attempts to drive sales of its HD DVD players to customers by reducing retail prices are also driving hardware manufacturers away from the format, as they see less opportunity to make money in the sector.
The only real silver lining for HD DVD is that, while it might seem unlikely, the company refuses to completely rule out the possibility of another Onkyo player hitting shelves during 2008. All the company will do is tease that it will ‘unveil a new HD source later this year, but cannot confirm at this stage whether it will be a HD DVD, Blu-ray or combi device’.
Home Cinema Choice (http://blog.homecinemachoice.com/page/homecinemachoice?entry=is_onkyo_planning_to_abandon)
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It's rumored that the Tosh/HD-DVD camp shelled out $2.7mio on this TVC as part of its tactical plans to avoid full slippage in the HD war...
Video: HD DVD Super Bowl Commercial
Mon Feb 04, 2008 at 12:41 AM ET
It didn't air nationally (nor was it new), but Toshiba's much-hyped Super Bowl ad did air in several markets, and we've got the video.
Following a full week's worth of anticipation, reaction to the ad among HD DVD fans in our forums area was somewhat muted; although it had been expected to run nationally, it appears Toshiba instead made a targeted spot buy, with those in some markets seeing the ad, while others did not.
Meanwhile, HD DVD fans who were lucky enough to see it were disappointed to see that it wasn't a new ad, but rather a re-badged version of the football-themed spot that Toshiba has been running all season long. Others defended the ad, arguing that it had met its goal of raising awareness for the format in general and for the new low price points of Toshiba's players.
Just click on the link below to check it out in Youtube.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWlj5ZX7JmY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWlj5ZX7JmY)
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what was up with that ad @_@ that was $2.7m???
to recall, this was what Toshiba said a few weeks ago....
"Toshiba Corp. will feature HD DVD in a scheduled Super Bowl XLII ad during the Feb. 3 telecast from Glendale, Ariz.
Jodi Sally, VP of marketing for the Toshiba Digital A/V Group, confirmed the Japanese consumer electronics giant will run the 30-second ad as part of a marketing strategy intended to reinvigorate HD DVD.
She said the spot would highlight the HD-A3, HD-A30 and HD-A35 players, which Toshiba recently cut the retail prices.
“It has always been our strategy to reach HDTV owners, using advertising on football games as just one vehicle,” Sally said. “If you recall, we had advertised on Sunday Night Football all season long.”
and people who have seen it have been saying that it wasn't even in HD @_@
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PlayStation3 gives BluRay another push. free BD remote with 40GB package
http://news.punchjump.com/article.php?id=5509
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Manga Films (Spain) goes Blu-ray exclusive
http://www.zonadvd.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=14157
This studio had initially pre-announced titles such as Crash or Hostage for HD DVD in 2007, but they were delayed. Now it announces it will begin releasing content on Blu-ray next July. Initial titles will be John Rambo and Mr. Brooks.
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Highlight Video goes Blu-exclusive in Germany
"Dem Beispiel des US-Majors Warner folgend, gab nun auch Highlight Video bekannt, in Zukunft nur noch die Blu-ray zu unterstützen und das Format HD DVD einzustellen. Diese Entscheidung tritt mit dem 1. März 2008 in Kraft. Wie uns von Highlight Video bestätigt wurde, werden Von diesem Termin an nicht nur alle neuen Titel nur noch auf Blu-ray erscheinen, sondern auch die Produktion bereits veröffentlichter HD DVDs eingestellt. Demnach dürfte "Lissi und der wilder Kaiser", der Ende März erscheinen soll, der erste Blu-ray-exklusive High Definition-Titel des Studios werden.
Als Gründe für die Entscheidung nannte gehen in die gleiche Richtung wie bei Warner: Das vergangene Jahr habe gezeigt, dass sich der Streit der beiden Formate nachteilig auf das Interesse der Konsumenten auswirke. Daher will man künftig nur noch einem Format den Rücken stärken und hat sich dabei für das in den letzten Monaten konstant verkaufsstärkere Format Blu-ray entschieden.
Franz Woodtli, Home Entertainment Vorstand der Constantin Film AG dazu: "Mit unserer Entscheidung für das Blu-ray Format orientieren wir uns eindeutig an der internationalen Entwicklung. Der jahrelange DVD-Nachfolgestreit hat vor allem im Jahr 2007 eine merkliche Verunsicherung bei den Konsumenten hervorgerufen und damit eine Verzögerung bei der Einführung von Hi-Def in den Mainstream bewirkt. Eine klare Positionierung bringt somit Vorteile für Verbraucher, Produzenten und Einzelhändler."
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Highlight Video goes Blu-exclusive in Germany
"Dem Beispiel des US-Majors Warner folgend, gab nun auch Highlight Video bekannt, in Zukunft nur noch die Blu-ray zu unterstützen und das Format HD DVD einzustellen. Diese Entscheidung tritt mit dem 1. März 2008 in Kraft. Wie uns von Highlight Video bestätigt wurde, werden Von diesem Termin an nicht nur alle neuen Titel nur noch auf Blu-ray erscheinen, sondern auch die Produktion bereits veröffentlichter HD DVDs eingestellt. Demnach dürfte "Lissi und der wilder Kaiser", der Ende März erscheinen soll, der erste Blu-ray-exklusive High Definition-Titel des Studios werden.
Als Gründe für die Entscheidung nannte gehen in die gleiche Richtung wie bei Warner: Das vergangene Jahr habe gezeigt, dass sich der Streit der beiden Formate nachteilig auf das Interesse der Konsumenten auswirke. Daher will man künftig nur noch einem Format den Rücken stärken und hat sich dabei für das in den letzten Monaten konstant verkaufsstärkere Format Blu-ray entschieden.
Franz Woodtli, Home Entertainment Vorstand der Constantin Film AG dazu: "Mit unserer Entscheidung für das Blu-ray Format orientieren wir uns eindeutig an der internationalen Entwicklung. Der jahrelange DVD-Nachfolgestreit hat vor allem im Jahr 2007 eine merkliche Verunsicherung bei den Konsumenten hervorgerufen und damit eine Verzögerung bei der Einführung von Hi-Def in den Mainstream bewirkt. Eine klare Positionierung bringt somit Vorteile für Verbraucher, Produzenten und Einzelhändler."
geschundheit :D :D :D
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I'll be looking forward to this...
Warner Unveils Specs, Cover Art for 'I Am Legend'
Mon Feb 04, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
The worst-kept secret in high-def is now official, with Warner confirming an early Spring arrival for the Will Smith blockbuster 'I Am Legend' on Blu-ray and HD DVD.
As we've previously reported, details for a high-def release of 'I Am Legend' were inadvertently revealed last month when Warner sent early promotional materials to retailers ahead of an official announcement.
Now the studio has confirmed full specs and street dates for the update of the classic sci-fi tale, with the Blu-ray due March 18 (day-and-date with the standard DVD), and the HD DVD/DVD combo to follow three weeks later on April 8.
Announced bonus features are surprisingly slim for a blockbuster that has grossed over $500 million worldwide (and counting). Extras to be shared across all versions include a full-length alternate version of the movie with never-before-seen "controversial" ending, plus four interactive comic books inspired by the film ("Death As a Gift," "Isolation," "Sacrificing the Few for the Many," "Shelter").
Tech specs on both high-def editions include 1080p video and high-res audio in Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround.
Finally, Warner has revealed high-res box art for 'I Am Legend' on both high-def disc formats:
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5072/original.jpeg)
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John R coming in this end-May...
Lionsgate Planning 'Rambo' Sequels for Blu-ray
Mon Feb 04, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5073/original.jpeg)
Mark your calendars, Rambo fans: Lionsgate is preparing to bring the first two sequels in the Sylvester Stallone blockbuster series to Blu-ray this May.
That's according to TV Guide, which reports that the studio is readying 'Rambo: First Blood Part II' and 'Rambo III' for high-def release May 27. (Lionsgate released the first film in the carnage-fueled saga, 'First Blood,' on Blu-ray back in February 2007.)
As Lionsgate has not yet officially announced either title, there are no tech specs or supplemental details available yet. However, full details are expected soon, so we'll certainly keep you posted.
With Blu-ray releases of the first three John Rambo adventures now accounted for, what of the fourth installment in the venerable franchise (simply titled 'Rambo')? Though it should be taken firmly as rumor for now, TV Guide also hints that Lionsgate has staked out the May 27 street date as well for the franchise's Stallone-directed swan song. Stay tuned.
Retail price for the Blu-ray editions of 'Rambo: First Blood Part II' and 'Rambo III' is expected to fall in line with Lionsgate's standard MSRP of $39.98.
While we await an official announcement for the 'Rambo' sequels, you'll find preliminary disc details for both titles in our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where they are indexed under May 27.
Source: HighDef Digest
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Fox Readies 'Alien vs. Predator: Requiem' Blu-ray
Tue Feb 05, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5067/original.jpeg)
Confirming earlier speculation. Fox has alerted retailers that it plans to bring 'Alien vs. Predator: Requiem' to Blu-ray this April.
Word first surfaced of a 'AVPR' Blu-ray release at CES last month, when Fox previewed some of the bonus features planned for the disc, including a BD-Live-based interactive game. Anticipation was further stoked only days later when Fox announced an April 15 Blu-ray debut for the original 'Predator' -- a date which promised to be an obvious cross-promotional launch for the latest big-screen installment.
Now Fox has confirmed to retailers that the dueling species of 'Requiem' will indeed attack Blu-ray on April 15, day-and-date with the standard-def DVD.
With a full media announce still waiting in the wings, there are no further supplemental details or tech specs just yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray will be $39.98.
Source: HighDef Digest
You'll find preliminary disc details for 'Alien vs. Predator: Requiem' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under April 15.
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Fox Readies 'Alien vs. Predator: Requiem' Blu-ray
Tue Feb 05, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5067/original.jpeg)
Confirming earlier speculation. Fox has alerted retailers that it plans to bring 'Alien vs. Predator: Requiem' to Blu-ray this April.
Word first surfaced of a 'AVPR' Blu-ray release at CES last month, when Fox previewed some of the bonus features planned for the disc, including a BD-Live-based interactive game. Anticipation was further stoked only days later when Fox announced an April 15 Blu-ray debut for the original 'Predator' -- a date which promised to be an obvious cross-promotional launch for the latest big-screen installment.
Now Fox has confirmed to retailers that the dueling species of 'Requiem' will indeed attack Blu-ray on April 15, day-and-date with the standard-def DVD.
With a full media announce still waiting in the wings, there are no further supplemental details or tech specs just yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray will be $39.98.
Source: HighDef Digest
You'll find preliminary disc details for 'Alien vs. Predator: Requiem' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under April 15.
I hope they release a collector's item with part 1. Though Im not really a fan of the 2nd film.
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It's like forever BOGO with Echo Bridge (Indie group). Read on...
Echo Bridge Plans Line of Low-Priced Blu-ray Discs
Wed Feb 06, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5051/original.jpeg)
Indie distributor Echo Bridge has announced their debut slate of high-def releases, bringing a wave of six bargain-priced hits to Blu-ray this April.
A diverse mix of theatrical releases and made-for-TV fare, the line-up includes the 2006 telefilm 'Blackbeard,' the hit mini-series '10.5: Apocalypse,' 'Category 7: The End of the World' and 'The Curse of King Tut's Tomb,' and the theatrical releases 'The Last Sentinel' and 'Artie Lange's Beer League.'
Priced at a format-low of $14.95 a pop, Echo Bridge will release the entire slate on Blu-ray April 1. (Echo Bridge has not announced any plans to support HD DVD.)
Tech specs for all six titles include 1080 video and Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround tracks.
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HD DVD Player Returns Outnumber New Stock
http://www.hollywoodinhidef.com/blog_detail.php?id=170
"Word working its way around the Warner Bros. 85th anniversary event on the studio lot Tuesday night was that some electronics retailers are being flooded with returns of HD DVD players.
In fact, so many are being returned that some retailers are in possession of more returned HD DVD players than new stock.
I won't tell you who said what or which retailers we're talking about, but I will tell you that execs from Amazon.com and Best Buy were in attendance. "
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HD DVD Player Returns Outnumber New Stock
In fact, so many are being returned that some retailers are in possession of more returned HD DVD players than new stock.
Grabe but it's expected na esp after the WB announcement. :)
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Thats good ;), lower prices for those who want to purchase a hddvd player ;D..
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Some counterattacks by the Red camp...
Microsoft Drops Price for Xbox 360 HD DVD Add-On (UPDATED)
Wed Feb 06, 2008 at 01:18 PM ET
UPDATE: (5:35pm ET, 2/06/08) FormatWarCentral points out that Best Buy is now offering the Xbox 360 HD DVD player for $119.
Playing catch-up with a series of price drops on HD DVD players from Toshiba, Microsoft has shaved another $50 off the MSRP for its Xbox 360 HD DVD add-on.
That brings the new suggested retail price on the Xbox 360 HD DVD player in the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand to $129.99. (As we've previously reported, last August Microsoft dropped the price on the player to $179.)
Today's price drop from Microsoft (which is already reflected on the official Xbox site) comes on the same day that Amazon briefly offered the add-on for a mere $79.99. The web retailer promptly sold out of units at that price, and is currently selling the add-on via one of its partners for $155.67.
Purchases of the Xbox 360 add-on include a free HD DVD copy of of 'King Kong' inside the box, and qualify for an additional five free discs by mail as part of the HD DVD camp's "Perfect Offer" program.
Source: HighDef Digest
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WB continues the onslaught by name-dropping their heavyweights going forward, in line with their 85th. ;)
Warner Previews 2008/2009 Blu-ray Slate
Wed Feb 06, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4814/original.gif)
Warner Bros. has unveiled plans to celebrate its 85th birthday in grand style, promising Blu-ray release of such beloved titles as 'Gone with the Wind,' 'The Wizard of Oz' and films from the Batman and Dirty Harry series.
Revealed by top studio execs at a media event held last night on the Warner lot, the studio says it will honor its 85-year legacy with an extensive slate of DVD and Blu-ray releases of major theatrical and catalog titles throughout 2008 and early 2009.
Many titles mentioned have already been hinted at in previous public statements, including films from the Batman and Dirty Harry franchises, the upcoming theatrical hits 'The Dark Knight,' 'Speed Racer' and 'Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince,' as well as the first high-def release from Warner's new direct-to-video premiere label Raw Feed, 'Otis: Uncut.'
The studio went on to say that several of its most beloved classics will go into temporary moratorium on standard DVD in 2008 in anticipation of a series of lavish re-issues on both DVD and Blu-ray in 2009, including 'Gone with the Wind,' 'The Wizard of Oz' and 'North by Northwest.'
The list of titles previewed at last night's event are as follows (note that the studio stressed that this is not a complete list of planned Blu-ray releases, simply the highlights):
Q2 2008: 'Dirty Harry: Ultimate Collection' (includes 'Dirty Harry,' 'Magnum Force,' 'The Enforcer,' 'Sudden Impact,' 'The Dead Pool' and bonus disc "Clint Eastwood: Out of the Shadows')
Q3 2008: 'Batman Anthology' (includes 'Batman,' 'Batman Returns,' 'Batman Forever,' 'Batman & Robin,' 'Batman Begins'), 'Batman Begins'
Q4 2008: 'Otis: Uncut'
2009: 'Gone with the Wind,' 'North By Northwest,' 'The Wizard of Oz,' 'Woodstock'
2008/2009 Theatrical Releases: '10,000 B.C.,' 'Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince,' 'The Dark Knight,' 'Get Smart,' 'Speed Racer'' and 'Where the Wild Things Are.'
Warner has not released specific street dates or technical specs, but full announcements are expected over the coming months as the studio rolls out its complete 2008/2009 line-up.
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IMO this price drop of the addon should have been done at the beginning of 2007, to boost disc sales throughout the year and take advantage of all the 360's out there...but who knows what will happen.
Wow dirty harry series. Man a must have for me..Awesome..
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Fitch upgrades Sony as PS3 recovers
But the maker of the PlayStation3 games console said last week that its games division had returned to the black and reported a record net profit for the three months to December.
Fitch also noted that Sony had gained the upper hand in promoting its Blu-ray as the standard for next-generation DVDs in its showdown with Toshiba Corp.'s rival HD-DVD.
Leading Hollywood studio Warner Brothers said last month that it would support only Blu-ray.
http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5iovJ5zmSG_mVU_80wAd9xsxvqSdQ
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Two biggest Studios/Distributors in Sweden go Blu!
http://www.dvdforum.nu/?act=shne&id=3641
"I senaste numret av branschtidningen Videomonitor (hemsida) skriver man om HD-filmens framtid i Sverige, en framtid som onekligen ytterligare befäster blu-ray-formatets övertag.
I och med att Warner helhjärtat stödjer blu-ray innebär det att "... SF helt skrotar sina planer på HD DVD och enbart fokuserar på Blu-ray. Detsamma gäller Scanbox som släpper sina första HD-titlar i april"."
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Anyone can translate that? :P
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basically they will stop distributing HD-DVD on April 1 and do BD exclusively, thanks in part to the Warner decision
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(http://img138.imageshack.us/img138/7492/alvinchipsbd1artworkpicqq8.jpg)
March 31st
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The studio went on to say that several of its most beloved classics will go into temporary moratorium on standard DVD in 2008 in anticipation of a series of lavish re-issues on both DVD and Blu-ray in 2009, including 'Gone with the Wind,' 'The Wizard of Oz' and 'North by Northwest.'
What?! New lavish re-issues of The Wizard of Oz and Gone With The Wind, again?! It's been, what, just barely 3 years since the premium DVD versiosns were released!
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And I must say the most recent Wizard of Oz and Gone with the Wind DVD's had really excellent PQ.
I wonder what new ek ek Warner has for these new releases.
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(http://img138.imageshack.us/img138/7492/alvinchipsbd1artworkpicqq8.jpg)
March 31st
What an April Fool's Day release. Looking forward to it cause I missed it at the movies. Here's an additional article in HDD.
'Alvin and the Chipmunks' Coming to Blu-ray this April
Thu Feb 07, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5086/original.jpeg)
Fox has announced an April Fool's Day arrival for the the $200 million-grossing smash 'Alvin and the Chipmunks.'
The surprise hit of the holiday season, the Jason Lee-starrer defied all box office expectations with its mix of live action and animated whimsy. Fox will bring 'Alvin and the Chipmunks' to Blu-ray on April 1, day-and-date with the standard-def DVD.
Tech specs for the Blu-ray include a BD-25 single-layer disc featuring 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround at 48kHz/24-bit (French and Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround dubs are also provided, along with subtitle options in English, French, Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin and Korean)
Considering the film's high box office profile, announced extras shared across both versions are somewhat slim, including only two featurettes ("Chip-Chip-Hooray! Chipmunk History," "Hitting the Harmony"), a batch of high-def trailers, and a Digital Copy download version of the film for viewing on PCs and other portable devices.
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Filmax goes Blu (Spain)
http://www.planetahd.com/blu-ray/filmax-tambien-se-pasa-al-blu-ray/
"Recientemente pudimos leer en esta noticia, que Filmax preparaba nuevos lanzamientos en alta definición, todos ellos en Blu-ray. También se especulaba en dicha información, con la posibilidad de que la distribuidora dejara de editar HD DVD. Pues bien, pese a que comenzaron editando en ambos formatos, desde PlanetaHD os podemos confirmar que Filmax ha decidido dar el paso hacia el Blu-ray, no veréis un comunicado oficial ni nota de prensa alguna -tampoco es que se estile hacer eso en España- pero os aseguramos que la distribuidora no se plantea volver a editar HD DVD.
De hecho Filmax ya ha encargado estos y otros proyectos para comercializar próximamente y únicamente se está realizando la autoría en Blu-ray. El retraso en estos títulos: Resident Evil, Le Llaman Bodhi, Flyboys y Million Dollar Baby -que nos consta que ya están producidos- se debe a que la compañía está tanteando el terreno para lanzarlos al mercado cuando la alta definición esté aún más afianzada en el mercado español ya que las ventas de sus primeros títulos no fueron todo lo bien que esperaban."
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Filmax Now Exclusively Blu-ray Too
Spanish distributor Filmax has joined ranks with Manga Films in revealing that they will only release high definition titles on the Blu-ray format. Work has begun on a handful of titles for Blu-ray release, including 'Resident Evil', 'Flyboys', and 'Million Dollar Baby', but no release date has been given for any of the titles.
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Updated Warner Release Slate for 2008 and Beyond
Our good friends over at The Digital Bits were able to squeeze Warner for a little more information about some of the catalog titles expected to be released on Blu-ray this year. The current goal is to release a Blu-ray version of any catalog film day-and-date with a Special Edition DVD release. This will take some time to implement, but they hope to get that policy up-and-running by the end of the summer.
Without further delay, here is the updated list of titles announced by Warner for Blu-ray release.
08Q1
Bonnie and Clyde: Ultimate Collector's Edition
08Q2
Dirty Harry: Ultimate Collector's Edition Box Set (Dirty Harry, Magnum Force, The Enforcer, Sudden Impact, Dead Pool, and Clint Eastwood: Out of the Shadows)
08Q3
An American in Paris
Batman Anthology
Batman Begins: Limited Collector's Edition Box Set
Gigi
How the West was Won
The Dark Night
08Q4
A Christmas Story: Ultimate Collector's Edition
Otis: Uncut
2008
The Adventures of Robin Hood
Casablanca
Clash of the Titans
Excalibur
Forbidden Planet
Heat
Grand Prix
The Matrix Trilogy
Mutiny on the Bounty
V for Vendetta
2009
Ben-Hur
Gone With the Wind
North by Northwest
The Wizard of Oz
Woodstock
As you can see, those missing Warner titles which have been released on HD DVD but not Blu-ray are still coming - including 'The Matrix' trilogy.
Warner is discovering that many catalog titles don't have transfers which are good enough for Blu-ray release, including 'Clash of the Titans' (which has been delayed for restoration) and 'Heat' (which Michael Mann has just agreed to supervising a new 1080p transfer). Rest assured, Warner will continue to scrutinize every release to ensure it looks and sounds as good as possible before being released to the public.
Speaking of audio, Warner has heard your cries, and they will start releasing all high definition titles with lossless audio. Obviously, the switch to Blu-ray exclusivity makes this move easier, as the format has much more storage and bandwidth.
Additionally, any Warner catalog title you hear that is receiving 4k restoration will get a Blu-ray release. Warner spent years mastering their catalog at 1080i, and they are now having to do new masters in order to get a perfect transfer. Some catalog titles will receive 4k restoration (four times the size of 1080p), and any title you hear receiving this treatment will get a Blu-ray release
Remember, these are just a taste of what's coming from Warner this year, and there is still a bunch of titles planned for release that they are holding under their jacket, not to mention all the new release titles. But even with the list we have today, its shaping up to be a great year for Blu-ray fans.
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First Look: 'Space Ace' Blu-ray, HD DVD Art
Thu Feb 07, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5109/original.jpeg)
Its release date is still a couple of months away, but we've got an early peek at the box art for the high-def bow of the arcade classic, 'Space Ace.'
As we reported earlier this week, Digital Leisure is launching 'Space Ace' on Blu-ray and HD DVD as a follow-up to last year's high-def release of 'Dragon's Lair.'
Previously announced specs for both versions include remastered 1080p video (with the option to view in 16:9 and 4:3 aspect ratios) and Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround audio.
Among the bonus features is a picture-in-picture video commentary with the game's creators, additional interviews, and (on the HD DVD only) a "Head 2 Head" mode allowing web-enabled users to play the game simultaneously.
Now comes the first look at the title's cover art, recalling the graphics of the game's '80s heyday:
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5111/original.jpeg)
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MY TWO CENTS - 2/8/08 - by Digital Bits editor Bill Hunt
Scott Hettrick has contributed a new piece to Home Media, revealing that even with the format war, high-def discs are already double the size of the downloading market. Hettrick has also reported on the Warner 85th Anniversary press event at the Blu-ray backed Hollywood in High-Def site, and included this interesting tidbit:
"Word working its way around the Warner Bros. 85th anniversary event on the studio lot Tuesday night was that some electronics retailers are being flooded with returns of HD DVD players. In fact, so many are being returned that some retailers are in possession of more returned HD DVD players than new stock. I won't tell you who said what or which retailers we're talking about, but I will tell you that execs from Amazon.com and Best Buy were in attendance."
It's true, this was indeed buzzing around the event among members of the press and other attendees. This also corroborates the many similar reports we've been getting from our own retail sources over the last few weeks.
Finally today, the Nielsen VideoScan software sales numbers for the week ending 2/3 are now in. Here's they are...
(http://img402.imageshack.us/img402/7738/nvshddata02030836339cgy9.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
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An improvement from 18 to 26 percent. Not bad for a soon to be dead format ;D..
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An improvement from 18 to 26 percent. Not bad for a soon to be dead format ;D..
Here's to the 'undead' then... ;)
50 Percent Off Select Paramount Discs at Amazon
Amazon has added nearly fifty titles from Paramount and DreamWorks to its current sale on HD DVD titles.
The web giant is now offering a total of 146 HD DVD titles from Paramount/DreamWorks, Universal and Warner Bros at 50% off list price.
Among the newly added Paramount/DreamWorks titles are such hits as 'Zodiac,' 'Transformers' and 'Anchorman,' which are being offered at prices ranging from 14.95 to $19.95 a piece (view complete list of titles and prices).
At press time there was no word on how long this latest HD DVD deal would be offered by Amazon, although it's being billed as a limited time offer. For a full list of eligible titles and more information, click the link to Amazon below.
50% OFF HD DVD (http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fgp%2Ffeature.html%3Fie%3DUTF8%26plgroup%3D1%26docId%3D1000195491%26plpage%3D1&tag=panandscathed-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325)
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Updated specs for the upcoming IAL release. What I'm keen on seeing in this extended cut of the film is that for the first time, they will unveil a "controversial" alternate ending, presented in it's full HD glory. What did Will manage to extricate himself from the dire situation he was in last time? :o
Warner Expands 'I Am Legend' Blu-ray Specs
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5118/original.jpeg)
Warner has set final details for its high-def releases of 'I Am Legend,' revealing two previously unannounced bonus features exclusively for the Blu-ray edition.
Warner first announced the $200 million-plus grossing Will Smith horror-thriller for a March 18 release on Blu-ray, followed by an HD DVD version on April 8, with both versions originally set to receive identical sets of extras.
In today's update, tech specs for the two versions remain consistent, with the Blu-ray and HD DVD each enjoying 1080p/VC-1 video transfers and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround tracks. Both editions will also boast a never-before-seen extended cut of the film with "controversial" alternate ending, presented in full HD.
But while both the HD DVD and the Blu-ray will continue to carry four previously-announced animated comics among the disc's supplements, added to the mix on the Blu-ray only is a gallery of documentary vignettes dubbed "Creating I Am Legend," plus the featurette "Cautionary Tale: The Science of I Am Legend" (all in full HD).
Warner has also revealed that the four animated comics will be relegated to the standard-def DVD side of the HD DVD/DVD combo only.
Suggested retail price remains at $35.98 for both the Blu-ray and HD DVD/DVD combo versions.
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Best Buy to Recommend Blu-ray as the Customer’s Digital Format Choice
MINNEAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE: BBY) is taking a step forward in addressing consumer confusion about high-definition formats. Beginning in early March, the leading consumer electronics retailer will prominently showcase Blu-ray hardware and software products in its Best Buy retail and online channels in the United States.
“Consumers have told us that they want us to help lead the way. We've listened to our customers, and we are responding. Best Buy will recommend Blu-ray as the preferred format,” said Brian Dunn, Best Buy's president and chief operating officer. “Our decision to shine a spotlight on Blu-ray Disc players and other Blu-ray products is a strong signal to our customers that we believe Blu-ray is the right format choice for them."
Dunn continued, “Best Buy has always believed that the customer will benefit from a widely-accepted single format that would offer advantages such as product compatibility and expanded content choices. Because we believe that Blu-ray is fast emerging as that single format, we have decided to focus on Blu-ray products."
“With the explosion of HDTVs, customers are hungry for quality, high definition content. We believe our move to feature Blu-ray should help consumers feel confident in their hi-def content choices,” said Mike Vitelli, Best Buy's senior vice president, Home Solutions. “Best Buy is excited by the next generation of digital products and we know our customers are too. We are excited about helping customers find the right mix of products and services to make the next generation of high definition entertainment technology come alive for them. We believe that Blu-ray is the right solution for consumers."
Best Buy currently carries a wide array of Blu-ray hardware and software products. The company noted that it will continue to carry an assortment of HD-DVD products for customers who desire to purchase these products.
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Netflix, Citing a Clear Signal From the Industry, Will Carry High-Def DVDs Only in Blu-ray Format
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., Feb. 11 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- With the industry now having picked a winner in the face-off between the two competing high- definition DVD formats, Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ: NFLX), the world's largest online movie rental service, today said that it will move toward stocking high-def DVDs exclusively in the Blu-ray format.
Citing the decision by four of the six major movie studios to publish high-def DVD titles only in the Sony-developed Blu-ray format, Netflix said that as of now it will purchase only Blu-ray discs and will phase out by roughly year's end the alternative high-def format, HD DVD, developed by Toshiba.
Since the first high-definition DVDs came on the market in early 2006, Netflix has stocked both formats. But the company said that in recent months the industry has stated its clear preference for Blu-ray and that it now makes sense for the company to initiate the transition to a single format.
"The prolonged period of competition between two formats has prevented clear communication to the consumer regarding the richness of the high-def experience versus standard definition," said Ted Sarandos, chief content officer for Netflix. "We're now at the point where the industry can pursue the migration to a single format, bring clarity to the consumer and accelerate the adoption of high-def. Going forward, we expect that all of the studios will publish in the Blu-ray format and that the price points of high-def DVD players will come down significantly. These factors could well lead to another decade of disc-based movie watching as the consumer's preferred means."
Added Mr. Sarandos: "From the Netflix perspective, focusing on one format will enable us to create the best experience for subscribers who want high- definition to be an important part of how they enjoy our service."
While only a portion of Netflix subscribers have elected to receive high- def DVDs, a majority of those subscribers have chosen Blu-ray over HD DVD. As part of the transition to Blu-ray, the company said it will acquire no new HD DVDs but that its current HD DVD inventory would continue to rent until the discs' natural life cycle takes them out of circulation in the coming months.
When Warner Home Video announced last month that by the end of this year it will release high-def titles exclusively in the Blu-ray format, it joined fellow majors Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment and Buena Vista Home Entertainment in endorsing Blu-ray. Currently, the two remaining majors, Paramount Home Entertainment and Universal Studios Home Entertainment, publish in the HD DVD format.
Netflix currently stocks over 400 Blu-ray titles, having recently added popular releases such as "Across the Universe" (Sony), "Gone Baby Gone" (Buena Vista) and the Academy Award nominated "Michael Clayton" (Warner Bros.). Blu- ray titles scheduled for release in the next month or so include the Academy Award nominated "No Country for Old Men" (Walt Disney), "Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story" (Sony) and "Alvin and the Chipmunks" (20th Century Fox).
http://netflix.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=265
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Some news on Cloverfield's cuz... ;)
Sony Postpones 'Godzilla' Blu-ray
Mon Feb 11, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3875/original.jpeg)
Sony has announced a street date postponement for 'Godzilla,' pushing back its planned March Blu-ray debut to tweak the disc's bonus features.
As we've previously reported, Sony first announced back in October that it was bringing the 1998 Roland Emmerich-remake of Godzilla' to Blu-ray on March 28, 2008 (day-and-date with a new special edition DVD re-issue).
Now, on the heels of a special sneak peek of 'Godzilla's bonus features that the studio held this past January at CES, Sony has removed both the Blu-ray and DVD versions from its upcoming release schedule. Although no new date has been announced, Sony says it's currently at work crafting the disc's supplements, and is planning a re-announce of the title due in the coming months.
Extras originally revealed for the Blu-ray included "Behind the Scenes of Godzilla with Charles Caiman" featurette, an "All Time Best Of Godzilla Fight Scenes" montage and the "Heroes" music video by The Wallflowers. We'll keep you posted as soon as official word comes in on further extras and a new street date.
Source: HighDef Digest
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Asan na ba yong mga Blu Ray bashers diyan? :P
I remember at the start of 2007 kabilaan kung i-bash dito ang Blu Ray. :P
Well, what now?
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wala na pare nagneutral na sila hehehe
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I guess its now time for toshiba to raised the white flag and throw in the towel. hehehe.
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Onga eh. Mukhang neutralized na.
Lessons learned: Wag magsalita ng tapos and don't opine as if you are the industry expert. Peace.
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Onga eh. Mukhang neutralized na.
Lessons learned: Wag magsalita ng tapos and don't opine as if you are the industry expert. Peace.
I think this can go both ways. Right now all those die hard bluboys are dancing/jumping up and down, posting every great news, making immature posts..By the way I'm not pinpointing anybody here (I'm not here for war but for opinion, forum naman ito ;D), but if warner went red and all of this news come out in favor of red, do you like redboys rubbing it in and doing the same thing. I don't think so..Nobody likes that, especially after spending tons of money on a format. I will tell you frankly I really don't like blu-ray because of the high pricing and their players are not even complete. I like hddvd bec of the low pricing. The war is good for us to be able to afford/enjoy high def NOW, not sometime in the future..I thank toshiba for doing this...But money talks in this world. I'm sure both sides are getting incentives and now with blu winning, let's just see if prices will come down to affodable levels, which I really don't think will happen. If I am wrong here I will be man enough to eat my words. ;D Since the warner announcement I don't see any BOGO for blu, just recently 40 % off some fox titles ata, Ya right 24 dollars ata a pop for catalog. Good luck buying those..
Anyway this is just my opinion..
Peace also
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Onga eh. Mukhang neutralized na.
Lessons learned: Wag magsalita ng tapos and don't opine as if you are the industry expert. Peace.
hehe such a strong word sir nels ah . . . sigurado marami tinamaan . . . kasama na yata ako dun :D :D :D
Well maybe, there's no need para mag-sisihan cool naman tyo lahat d2 sa PDVD . . . besides its all for the sake of discussion & exchange of ideas and it's just normal to defend what format you think is the best and wud like to win. Try to visit AVSforum at naku kulang na lang mag-sapakan mga supporters dun.
As they say, in a format war walang naman iba nakikinabang kundi ang mga consumers, the early adopters who enjoy the prices being drag down by the war. Tignan mo ngayon balik na naman sa dating price ang blu-ray titles.
While for the HD DVD supporters, its not yet the end there are still tons of great exclusive titles coming. . . Beowulf, Cloverfield, Spiderwick Chronicles, Ironman, Incredible Hulk2, Hellboy2, Indiana Jones - KOTCS, Wanted, Doomsday, There will be blood, The Ruins, etc . . . and again that is, if Uni & Para will not defect soon ;D
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While for the HD DVD supporters, its not yet the end there are still tons of great exclusive titles coming. . . Indiana Jones - KOTCS . . . and again that is, if Uni & Para will not defect soon ;D
actually, i doubt this will be released on HD-DVD alone. Spielberg won't allow his movies to be released by Universal on HD-DVD (alone). people say Spielberg is a blu-ray fanboy, which may explain why Michael Bay went ballistic when he found out that Transformers went HD-DVD exclusive. i personally think Spielberg had influenced him in some way.
but it's only a matter of time before all studios publish on blu-ray. i'll just wait. ;)
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Onga eh. Mukhang neutralized na.
Lessons learned: Wag magsalita ng tapos and don't opine as if you are the industry expert. Peace.
Respectfully disagree. Even an idiot is entitled to express his/her opinion. In this board, IMO, some members tend to write their posts as if it's the bible. Well it could be a simple case of lack of proper writing skills (ang hirap yata ng real conditional and unreal conditional sa english grammar) but puede naman mag-tagalog, or the other side of it, somebody simply wants to sound very smart and authoritative for whatever reason. Marami rin mahilig sa "one liners," marami ring mahilig mag-litanya, and maraming mahilig gamitin this board as a portal of the bigger sites. So this is a halo halo board and there's nothing wrong with that. But cmon lads, who's really an expert in the high def industry within this board anyways???
I still stand by my opinion. A lot of members seem to be spending more time on these news on a daily basis than actually enjoying their high def movies, whether it be BD, HD DVD or ripped.
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Alright. Everyone is entitled nga naman to his opinion.
Pero some of the posts back early last year was already forecasting Blu Ray's death due to its lackluster technology compared to HD DVD and saying The Trojan Horse PS3 would no way win Blu Ray due to its pricing.
Well, look at the situation now. I could say Sony's strategy might have helped in the adoption of the Blu Ray.
Well, di ko na sya ngayon nakikitang nag-popost dito. He/She might have realized that all his/her forecasts went down the drain.
Anyway, I, for one, is not yet saying that HD DVD will lose this battle unless they raised the white flag na.
Peace to HD supporters out there.
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actually, i doubt this will be released on HD-DVD alone. Spielberg won't allow his movies to be released by Universal on HD-DVD (alone). people say Spielberg is a blu-ray fanboy, which may explain why Michael Bay went ballistic when he found out that Transformers went HD-DVD exclusive. i personally think Spielberg had influenced him in some way.
but it's only a matter of time before all studios publish on blu-ray. i'll just wait. ;)
But M. Bay backpeddled fr. his initial reaction, how did that influence Spielberg kaya?
"Last night at dinner I was having dinner with three blu-ray owners, they were pissed about no Transformers Blu-ray and I drank the kool aid hook line and sinker. So at 1:30 in the morning I posted - nothing good ever comes out of early am posts mind you - I over reacted. I heard where Paramount is coming from and the future of HD and players that will be close to the $200 mark which is the magic number. I like what I heard.
As a director, I'm all about people seeing films in the best quality possible, and I saw and heard firsthand people upset about a corporate decision.
So today I saw 300 on HD, it rocks!
So I think I might be back on to do Transformers 2!
Michael Bay"
http://www.shootfortheedit.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=2304&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0 (http://www.shootfortheedit.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=2304&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0)
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well this is what M. Bay said after 1/4
"Well another studio down. Maybe I was right? Blu ray is just better. HD will die a slow death. It's what I predicted a year ago. Now with Warner's down for the count with Blu Ray. That makes it easier for Wal-Mart to push Blu Ray. And whatever Wal-Mart pushes - wins. Hd better start giving out those $120 million dollars checks to stay alive. Maybe they can give me some so I can give it to my Make-A-Wish charity, just to shut me up. Have faith people Transformers will come out in Blu-ray one day!
Bay"
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Tripictures (Spain) Blu exclusive too
"Via ZonaDVD nos enteramos que Tripictures empieza a editar ya títulos en alta definición. Otra distribuidora nacional más a sumar al carro… del Blu-ray (por supuesto).
La regla de tres es clara: Tripictures edita básicamente titulos de New Line; New Line es exclusiva de Blu-ray; luego Tripictures también en Blu-ray. Aunque, visto como están las cosas, lo más sensato es apostar por el rayo azul, dependa o no de dónde le llegue el material. Y es que, lo que es en España, el HD DVD está francamente muerto.
Los primeros títulos serán Hairspray Blu-ray y Hora Punta 3 Blu-ray, que lejos de la opinión cinematográfica que pueda tener cada cual sobre ellas, han resultado unas grandiosas ediciones en USA. Esperemos que aquí nos lleguen igual."
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Breaking News: EGM Confirms Universal's Exclusivity Drop from HD DVD
(http://img156.imageshack.us/img156/9587/egmscan163d79up7.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
In EGM's March 2008 Cover Story, EGM clearly signals what every Blu-ray fan has been waiting for: Universal Studio's exclusivity drop from HD DVD. Many suspected with Warner's recent announcement of exclusively supporting Blu-ray that Paramount would follow (being that Paramount's contract with HD DVD cited a clause stating that if Warner defected, Toshiba would allow the studio to diffuse their current 'relationship'). However, that was not the case. Paramount publicly noted that their exclusivity support with HD DVD would remain - as did Universal - after this year's excruciating CES for the HD DVD camp. It seems as though the tables have turned indeed.
With Universal dropping exclusive support with the HD DVD camp, this will allow the studio to release it's films on both high-def mediums. The pros in this move will allow the studio to specifically see which format will perform better, in disc sales, which will later evolve into a concluded decision that will assist Universal in choosing the correct format to support exclusively. With dropping HD DVD support, it is clear that Universal has been listening to the consumers. With Blu-ray internationally dominating the high-def market, HD DVD seems to be slowly dissipating into a mist of absolute abandonment from both consumers and studios. Consumers have been returning their HD DVD players clearly citing which format has won, and studios around the world have been continuously announcing their exclusive support for the Blu-ray format stating that support for the HD DVD medium will no longer be taken into consideration, again, declaring a winner.
With this announcement, Blu-ray owners will now have long-awaited titles (i.e. The Bourne Trilogy) that they have been waiting for - if Universal announces to release for it, that is. Everyone has already chosen the obvious winner of this format; apparently Toshiba has yet to come into realization that its format is no longer being considered by the media industry. Consumers and movie studios alike have declared whom they will exclusively be supporting in the future. Toshiba needs to get their heads out their asses and go out with dignity. All they're doing is confusing uneducated consumers and trying to squeeze out a buck for their own benefit. I, for one, won't be supporting them at all.
http://www.thegamersthought.com/2008/02/breaking-news-egm-confirms-universals.html
We do expect Universal to announce support for Blu-ray some time later in 2008, but not for a while yet. For the record, when we contacted the studio about this story, this was their reply: "USHE has not commented on such rumors or speculation and did not speak to EGM for this piece." So take that as you will.
http://www.thedigitalbits.com/#mytwocents
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EGM as in Electronic Gaming Monthly? The gaming mag?
March 2008 issue? So when was this article actually written? In January 2008?
What Universal announcement? Is this article about "IF Universal announces?"
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Welcome news - Buy 2 Get 1 Deal from Amazon, please find the link below. Cheers! ;)
Amazon Offers New 3-For-2 Deal on Blu-ray, HD DVD Discs
Tue Feb 12, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5136/original.gif)
Yet another high-def disc deal to report. This time, Amazon is offering a free Blu-ray or HD DVD disc with the purchase of two others.
The promotion started this morning and can be applied to a list of over a hundred titles on either format. Among the Blu-ray titles included are 'Pan's Labyrinth,' 'War' and 'Casino Royale' (click for complete list of eligible Blu-ray titles). The HD DVD selection includes 'Batman Begins,' 'The Complete Matrix Trilogy,' and 'The Shining' (click for complete list of eligible HD DVD titles.)
At press time it wasn't clear how long Amazon would be extending this offer, but the promotion text that accompanies the offer warns that supplies are limited.
As we've previously reported, Amazon is also offering 50% off a different set of 150 HD DVD titles (from Paramount, Universal and Warner) as part of a separate promotion that kicked off last week.
BLU RAY 2+1 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html?ie=UTF8&docId=1000196201&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=hero-quick-promo&pf_rd_r=0Z9537T5H1EXDBWZV2QX&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_p=363245801&pf_rd_i=B000MRA5NS)
HD DVD 2+1 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html?ie=UTF8&docId=1000196251&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=right-2&pf_rd_r=1DN4RR21C49NMB2E6EVM&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=364032601&pf_rd_i=193642011)
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HD DVD camp issues sad little response to Netflix, Best Buy snubs
Out of the many jobs in today's multi-billion dollar consumer electronics industry, the one we'd probably want least right now is writer of press releases for the HD DVD Promotional Group. After each major defection, these poor folks have to whip up a positive-sounding response to what everyone knows is very bad news -- but after yesterday's one-two punches by Netflix and Best Buy, even these paid cheerleaders are having trouble finding the right spin. Here's what they had to say, as reported by CNET:
"We have long held the belief that HD DVD is the best format for consumers based on quality and value, and with more than 1 million HD DVD players on the market, it's unfortunate to see Netflix make the decision to only stock Blu-ray titles going forward. While the Best Buy announcement says they will recommend Blu-ray, at least they will continue to carry HD DVD and offer consumers a choice at retail."
Doesn't sound like there's too much fight left there, does it? If the best you can do to support your dying format is to rehash the same canned argument and celebrate your remaining shelf space, well, there would seem to be a bigger problem than you're willing to admit. At this point, we're just curious to see how it will all end: after investing so much time, energy, money, and vitriol on this bitter format war, how does Toshiba move forward in a world almost completely dominated by its rival in blue?
source: http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/12/hd-dvd-camp-issues-sad-little-response-to-netflix-best-buy-snub/
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On the controversial Mr. Bay again... ;)
Michael Bay on Blu-ray: "Told You So"
Wed Feb 13, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5142/original.jpeg)
Never one to hold his tongue, Michael Bay is speaking out again on the high-def format war, reminding that he backed Blu-ray long before the format's most recent wave of victories. The outspoken 'Transformers' director's latest comments came earlier this week at an award ceremony held by the Visual Effects Society, where he presented the award for animated character in a motion picture.
"Blu-ray’s better, and I told everyone," said Bay. "I was very vocal about it. I knew HD [DVD] was not going to make it."
As longtime readers of this site will remember, Bay made headlines last August when he threatened to back out of 'Transformers 2' after it was announced that the film's distributor (Paramount/DreamWorks) would drop Blu-ray support in favor of HD DVD.
Although Bay recanted his remarks before 'Transformers' hit HD DVD, he ultimately returned to his pro-Blu-ray stance, stating that the Sony-backed format was "where my money is."
Taking a virtual victory lap Sunday night, Bay issued his first public statement on the format war following Warner's announcement that it would drop HD DVD support, saying: "Am I thrilled? It really wasn’t my fight, but remember what I said in the press? I was kind of saying HD [DVD]’s going to lose... No one believed me."
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This is my personal Michael Bay challenge. When his Transformers is finally mastered in BD, he has to prove that it will be unmistakably SHARPER than the current HD DVD version.
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This is my personal Michael Bay challenge. When his Transformers is finally mastered in BD, he has to prove that it will be unmistakably SHARPER than the current HD DVD version.
or have more Hi-Def Extras. ;D in any case, it's up to those guys at Paramount to decide whether or not to "enhance" the blu-ray version of Transformers. but i don't really think Mr. Bay would care. he already had his "told you so" moment. :P
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This is my personal Michael Bay challenge. When his Transformers is finally mastered in BD, he has to prove that it will be unmistakably SHARPER than the current HD DVD version.
I guess it will also have Dolby TrueHD and LPCM included this time..
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or have more Hi-Def Extras. ;D in any case, it's up to those guys at Paramount to decide whether or not to "enhance" the blu-ray version of Transformers. but i don't really think Mr. Bay would care. he already had his "told you so" moment. :P
In that particular article, the only line that stuck to my head was Michael Bay's contention that BD is sharper. That's why I would want him to prove that he can make his own film sharper in BD than in HD DVD.
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In that particular article, the only line that I stuck to my head was Michael Bay's contention that BD is sharper. That's why I would want him to prove that he can make his own film sharper in BD than in HD DVD.
I guess he would.. Just wait for it..
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Again due to the lack of space... :P :P :P
MY TWO CENTS - 2/13/08 - by Digital Bits editor Bill Hunt
So here's a pisser... Universal's new DVD/HD-DVD combo format release of Ridley Scott's American Gangster contains both the 158-minute theatrical cut AND the 177-minute extended cut, right? But here's what sucks... the extended cut is only on the DVD side, and the theatrical version on the HD side only has Dolby Digital Plus audio. What's more, overcompression is an issue on both sides, obviously due to lack of disc space. Ugh. Just think, Universal could put BOTH versions in high-def on a 50GB Blu-ray with seamless branching. Hhhmmm...
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Unconfirmed reports that Toshiba is taking a dive as well ::)
Report: Toshiba to Drop HD DVD
Source: HighDef Digest
Thu Feb 14, 2008 at 08:29 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5162/original.jpeg)
The Hollywood Reporter is citing "reliable industry sources" as saying that Toshiba is on the verge of officially dropping its HD DVD format.
Though Toshiba denies that any such decision has been made, the just-published article in The Reporter points to "substantial" losses from each HD DVD player sold and a series of high-profile defections as key motivators for the company, with one unnamed source close to the HD DVD camp telling the Reporter that "an announcement is coming soon... it could be a matter of weeks."
Click on the link below to read the full article:
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Toshiba/Report:_Toshiba_to_Drop_HD_DVD/1468 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Toshiba/Report:_Toshiba_to_Drop_HD_DVD/1468)
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Unconfirmed reports that Toshiba is taking a dive as well ::)
Report: Toshiba to Drop HD DVD
Source: HighDef Digest
Thu Feb 14, 2008 at 08:29 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5162/original.jpeg)
The Hollywood Reporter is citing "reliable industry sources" as saying that Toshiba is on the verge of officially dropping its HD DVD format.
Though Toshiba denies that any such decision has been made, the just-published article in The Reporter points to "substantial" losses from each HD DVD player sold and a series of high-profile defections as key motivators for the company, with one unnamed source close to the HD DVD camp telling the Reporter that "an announcement is coming soon... it could be a matter of weeks."
Click on the link below to read the full article:
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Toshiba/Report:_Toshiba_to_Drop_HD_DVD/1468 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Toshiba/Report:_Toshiba_to_Drop_HD_DVD/1468)
Here's the driect link to the source;
http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/content_display/news/e3ib77125d96b22e86027d0bfb0c25aa58d (http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/content_display/news/e3ib77125d96b22e86027d0bfb0c25aa58d)
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MY TWO CENTS - 2/14/08 - by Digital Bits editor Bill Hunt
Here's some late-breaking news for you, and this is ALL high-def related: The Hollywood Reporter is indicating that "reliable industry sources" say Toshiba is getting ready to drop the HD-DVD format. According to the story, Toshiba's Jodi Sally wouldn't confirm but "hinted that something's in the air" given recent developments. It seems that the retail defections have, predictably, taken their toll. From the text:
"An announcement is coming soon," said one source close to the HD DVD camp. "It could be a matter of weeks."
The story is by T.K. Arnold and Erik Gruenwedel, and can also be found at Home Media. Calls to Microsoft's Kevin Collins and Universal's Ken Graffeo (also co-president of the North American HD-DVD Promotional Group) for the piece were apparently not returned.
For what it's worth, our own sources have been telling us recently that Paramount could make an announcement relating to a return to Blu-ray support as soon as late March or early April, though that was before this new report broke. Both Paramount and Universal have denied any change in their high-def support in recent weeks, or simply declined to comment. It's worth noting, however, that Universal hasn't announced any new HD-DVD titles since American Gangster, and it cancelled two titles (Dazed & Confused and Land of the Dead) that were previously released as DVD/HD-DVD combo discs and were going to be re-issued as HD-DVD only titles on 3/11.
There have been additional (though COMPLETELY unconfirmed) reports in the last few days that Toshiba may be preparing their own Blu-ray Disc player models. You can read more on that here at 1080 Living. It would certainly make sense. With over 90% of all high-def format sales in Japan Blu-ray, Toshiba needs to do something there or risk being left completely behind in their own backyard. Again, though, we have yet to hear anything like this from our own sources, so season this particular rumor liberally with salt.
Regardless... hang tight, folks. This thing could soon be officially over. Either way, it's certainly getting interesting (as if it wasn't already fascinating enough). Stay tuned...
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Toshiba set to release a Blu-Ray player?
1080living.com has learned through sources in the distribution and retail business that the buzz is Toshiba already has a Blu-Ray player in the works ready for production for a September 08 release but now this has been pushed up to a July 08 release with recent events in the industry.
This would make sense as Toshiba is a major electronics giant and supporting Blu-Ray will only benefit the company in the long run. Toshiba is currently liquidating HD-DVD players for as little as $90.00 which many analyst consider to be under their cost but as demand dries up Toshiba is trying to cash in on last minute consumers that will be swayed by price alone.
One source cited 2 players are in the works with a price target of $250 and $350.00
http://www.1080living.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=30
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"The latest Nielsen VideoScan First Alert sales data show the top-selling Blu-ray Disc title for the week, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment's "Across the Universe," sold more than three times as many copies the week ending Feb. 10 as the top HD DVD seller, Universal Studios Home Entertainment's "Elizabeth: The Golden Age." Blu-ray Disc titles also accounted for 81% of all high-def disc sales for the week, with HD DVD at just 19%."
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Wal-Mart puts stake through HD DVD's heart
http://www.news.com/8301-10784_3-9873029-7.html
"Wal-Mart announced Friday morning that it, too, has chosen a side in the battle for high-definition video supremacy: by June it will only stock Blu-ray Disc players"
oh that means only Blu-ray discs too....
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okay... fat lady's about to sing... ;)
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It's the end of HD DVD no doubt.. ;D ;D ;D
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Here's the Official Press Release from Wal-Mart
http://www.walmartfacts.com/articles/5673.aspx
Wal-Mart Moving Exclusively Toward Blu-ray Format Movies and Players
"Bentonville, Ark., Feb. 15, 2008 – Wal-Mart Stores, U.S. today announces that its 4,000 Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club stores will move forward this year with one hi-definition movie and hardware format: Blu-ray. The change will take place quickly over the next several months whereby the retailer will phase out HD DVD offerings and reorganize shelf space. By June, Wal-Mart stores, Sam’s Clubs, www.walmart.com and www.samsclub.com will offer only Blu-ray movies and hardware machines, as well as standard definition movies and DVD players, and up converts.
"We’ve listened to our customers, who are showing a clear preference toward Blu-ray products and movies with their purchases," said Gary Severson, senior vice president, Home Entertainment, Wal-Mart, U.S. "With the customers best interest in all we do, we wanted to share our decision and timeline with them as soon as possible, knowing it will help simplify their purchase decision, increase selection, and increase adoption long term. We anticipate enhancing our selection with continued great values in hi-definition Blu-ray products, so our customers can further enhance their entertainment experience at home."
Wal-Mart will continue to sell through remaining HD DVD product, but in less than 30 days customers will see a more predominant move toward Blu-ray in stores, clubs and online. As the nation’s largest retailer, Wal-Mart thoughtfully reviewed all areas and impact in making its decision, and is excited to move forward with one format and share its future plans with customers."
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Last month, Warner announced that its HD DVD titles will be released until the end of May 2008.
"Warner Bros.' move to exclusively release in the Blu-ray disc format is a strategic decision focused on the long term and the most direct way to give consumers what they want ... We believe that exclusively distributing in Blu-ray will further the potential for mass market success and ultimately benefit retailers, producers, and most importantly, consumers," said Barry Meyer, Chairman & CEO of Warner Bros.
This month, Ronnee Sass (VP-Publicity & Promotion, Warner Bros) now says:
"If there is product available in HD DVD and there is a request from a retailer, we will provide".
"There may be isolated instances that an HD DVD title will be created, but as a general rule our titles will be out in SD and BD only after May 31".
Q (dvdtown.com): "Does this mean that it is possible Warner will release HD DVD titles after May 31st in isolated instances?"
A (R. Sass): "It is not forseen, but not impossible."
http://www.dvdtown.com/news/a-warner-bros-hd-dvd-title-after-may-not-impossible/5239
http://www.dvdtown.com/news/will-warner-bros-re-stock-old-hd-dvds-we-asked-them/5234
How's that again?
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just a quick tally ^_^ ano na rin kaya next week lols
02-14-08 WALMART Goes Blu-Ray Exclusive!
02-14-08 Niveus Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-14-08 Cameo (Spain) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-12-08 Hi-Fi Klubben (Scandinavia) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-12-08 Tripictures (Spain) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-11-08 Best Buy to promote & recommend Blu-Ray Exlcusively.
02-11-08 Netflix Goes Blu-Ray Exlcusive.
02-07-08 SF Films (Sweden) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-07-08 Scanbox (Sweden) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-07-08 Filmax Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-06-08 MK2, distributor (France), Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-05-08 OVA Films goes Blu-ray exclusive.
02-04-08 BAC Films (France) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-04-08 Manga Films Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-01-08 ADV Films to go Blu-ray Exclusive in 2008.
02-01-08 Imation stops HD-DVD-R/RW media, goes Blu-ray exclusive.
01-31-08 Highlight Video (Germany) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
01-30-08 National Geographic Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
01-30-08 EMI (Japan) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
01-30-08 Sonic Solutions Scenarist Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
01-29-08 Saturn (Germany) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
01-28-08 Woolworths Retail Outlet (UK) goes Blu-ray exclusive in store.
01-22-08 Grant's Appliances to go Blu-ray exclusive in 2008.
01-20-08 R&B Films goes Blu-ray exclusive.
01-16-08 Senator Entertainment to go Blu-ray exclusive in 2008.
01-16-08 Digital Playground to go Blu-ray exclusive in 2008.
01-11-08 Constantin Film goes Blu-ray exclusive.
01-10-08 HBO goes Blu-ray exclusive.
01-05-08 New Line goes Blu-ray exclusive.
01-04-08 Warner goes Blu-ray exclusive.
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Toshiba has a lot of catching up to do
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just a quick tally ^_^ ano na rin kaya next week lols
02-14-08 WALMART Goes Blu-Ray Exclusive!
02-14-08 Niveus Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-14-08 Cameo (Spain) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-12-08 Hi-Fi Klubben (Scandinavia) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-12-08 Tripictures (Spain) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-11-08 Best Buy to promote & recommend Blu-Ray Exlcusively.
02-11-08 Netflix Goes Blu-Ray Exlcusive.
02-07-08 SF Films (Sweden) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-07-08 Scanbox (Sweden) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-07-08 Filmax Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-06-08 MK2, distributor (France), Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-05-08 OVA Films goes Blu-ray exclusive.
02-04-08 BAC Films (France) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-04-08 Manga Films Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-01-08 ADV Films to go Blu-ray Exclusive in 2008.
02-01-08 Imation stops HD-DVD-R/RW media, goes Blu-ray exclusive.
01-31-08 Highlight Video (Germany) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
01-30-08 National Geographic Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
01-30-08 EMI (Japan) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
01-30-08 Sonic Solutions Scenarist Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
01-29-08 Saturn (Germany) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
01-28-08 Woolworths Retail Outlet (UK) goes Blu-ray exclusive in store.
01-22-08 Grant's Appliances to go Blu-ray exclusive in 2008.
01-20-08 R&B Films goes Blu-ray exclusive.
01-16-08 Senator Entertainment to go Blu-ray exclusive in 2008.
01-16-08 Digital Playground to go Blu-ray exclusive in 2008.
01-11-08 Constantin Film goes Blu-ray exclusive.
01-10-08 HBO goes Blu-ray exclusive.
01-05-08 New Line goes Blu-ray exclusive.
01-04-08 Warner goes Blu-ray exclusive.
Sony and the rest of the gang announcing a $1000 profile 2.0 player?
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Sony and the rest of the gang announcing a $1000 profile 2.0 player?
Actually, all current stand-alone BD players in Japan are already more than $1,000 but they don't have 2.0 profile yet.
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even the excellent panny bd30? its only $400+ in amazon
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even the excellent panny bd30? its only $400+ in amazon
All Panasonic BD players in Japan cost more that Yen100,000 in Tokyo because they're not selling any BD player without HDD recording capability in this market.
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Tesco to back Blu-Ray
http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/retailing/article3380900.ece
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Kelan kaya ang announcement na ganito:
Breaking News!!! Toshiba goes Blu-Ray exclusive! ;D ;D;D
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When something like this happens....you know what's next???
SARS ALERT...SARS ALERT...SARS ALERT!!!
Upgrade to Bluray... ::)
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just a quick tally ^_^ ano na rin kaya next week lols
02-14-08 WALMART Goes Blu-Ray Exclusive!
02-14-08 Niveus Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-14-08 Cameo (Spain) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-12-08 Hi-Fi Klubben (Scandinavia) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-12-08 Tripictures (Spain) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-11-08 Best Buy to promote & recommend Blu-Ray Exlcusively.
02-11-08 Netflix Goes Blu-Ray Exlcusive.
02-07-08 SF Films (Sweden) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-07-08 Scanbox (Sweden) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-07-08 Filmax Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-06-08 MK2, distributor (France), Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-05-08 OVA Films goes Blu-ray exclusive.
02-04-08 BAC Films (France) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-04-08 Manga Films Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
02-01-08 ADV Films to go Blu-ray Exclusive in 2008.
02-01-08 Imation stops HD-DVD-R/RW media, goes Blu-ray exclusive.
01-31-08 Highlight Video (Germany) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
01-30-08 National Geographic Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
01-30-08 EMI (Japan) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
01-30-08 Sonic Solutions Scenarist Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
01-29-08 Saturn (Germany) Goes Blu-ray Exclusive.
01-28-08 Woolworths Retail Outlet (UK) goes Blu-ray exclusive in store.
01-22-08 Grant's Appliances to go Blu-ray exclusive in 2008.
01-20-08 R&B Films goes Blu-ray exclusive.
01-16-08 Senator Entertainment to go Blu-ray exclusive in 2008.
01-16-08 Digital Playground to go Blu-ray exclusive in 2008.
01-11-08 Constantin Film goes Blu-ray exclusive.
01-10-08 HBO goes Blu-ray exclusive.
01-05-08 New Line goes Blu-ray exclusive.
01-04-08 Warner goes Blu-ray exclusive.
Can't help not to think of Warner being the most influential of the pack, being a deciding factor of the shifting majority...
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^^ Some smart guys from the BDA Forum might have cooked this strategy in order to tilt the table in favor of
Blu Ray. They might have known that Warner's defection might decide the format war.
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WE THOUGHT GAME DEVELOPERS might be the first to out this kind of info but noooo.
It seems cunning hacks from Aussie site Smarthouse have obtained a confession from a Microsoft insider claiming that the Vole may hatch a Blu-ray spawn for its gaming console, as early as May 2008.
According to Smarthouse, apart from the obvious dead-end that HD-DVD will become in no time at all, several Volish business partners have already informed the console-dabbling software firm of their intention to opt for the Sony format, forcing the Vole’s paw in the matter.
In all fairness, La Vole’s, “we’re committed to the HD-DVD camp” argument didn’t fly (or is this 20/20 hindsight?) – the fact that Xbox 360 didn’t ship with a HD-DVD unit was a dead giveaway.
Let’s see if Tosh buys a Blu-ray licence, now.
http://www.theinquirer.net/gb/inquirer/news/2008/02/19/xbox-360-blu (http://www.theinquirer.net/gb/inquirer/news/2008/02/19/xbox-360-blu)
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Last Man Standing: All Eyes on Paramount
Though it's widely believed that Paramount will ultimately follow Warner and Universal to Blu-ray, the studio's silence today in the wake of Toshiba's announcement has tongues wagging.
Of course, Paramount is no stranger to the Blu-ray camp, having famously abandoned the format last August to go HD DVD exclusive. Although the studio was reported to have received $150 million in incentives to make the move, at the time studio execs praised HD DVD as the more stable of the two next-gen platforms.
Whether or not those public statements and/or any fees received by Paramount to make the switch are complicating negotiations with the BDA this time around is unknown, but as the only major HD DVD-supporting studio yet to make its future high-def plans known, speculation among industry observers reached a fever pitch Tuesday afternoon.
For its own part, Paramount declined comment on Toshiba's announcement today; instead, the studio issued release details for two HD DVD titles, 'There Will Be Blood' and 'Sweeney Todd.'
Stay tuned...
http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Paramount/Last_Man_Standing:_All_Eyes_on_Paramount/1489
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Blu-ray victory means royalties, royalties, royalties
Forget about customer satisfaction or superiority of image quality. The real issue in the war between Blu-ray and HD DVD was about royalties.
With the competition gone, the Blu-ray consortium now has the opportunity to persuade PC makers and consumer electronics makers to adopt Blu-ray drives as their optical drives of choice. It will also get studios and disc makers to deliver Blu-ray discs to consumers. And every time one of those drives or discs leaves a factory, the Blu-ray Disc Association will get a royalty.
The numbers add up quickly. Look at DVD, for example. To make a DVD player legally, manufacturers recently had to pay around $4 per player or drive, according to some estimates. A few years ago, those fees were around $15 to $20. Fees get paid every time a DVD drive gets included in a PC. Nearly every PC in the world has a DVD drive these days and roughly 250 million PCs get shipped every year. Companies that legally make DVD discs also pay fees. The DVD6C licensing group dropped the per disc fee in January to 4 cents per disc. Years ago, it was 7.5 cents per disc. Then there are verification fees.
The royalties, in fact, lead to what Chinese leaders call the "DVD mistake," said Zhisheng Niu, vice dean of the school of information sciences at Tsinghua University, in an interview with CNET News.com last year. Because of intense competition, many Chinese companies have lost money, or just broke even, on selling DVD players. The people that have made money, he added, were the patent holders. Chinese manufacturers often got around the licensing issues problem by making illegal players. (The DVD Forum eliminated the royalty for DVD players made and sold in China for a few years, but a lot of those systems ended up overseas.)
The royalties are one of the prime reasons China has pushed for its own optical standard.
"We have to develop our own standards so that we can have our own industry," said Niu. "We have a big DVD industry, but we are probably losing money. The market is big enough so that we can have our own industry."
Now, remember. Niu isn't some pirate off the street. He's one of the chief academics at China's leading university. That gives you a gauge on the feelings there.
The same went for CDs. Philips got about 1.8 cents per CD disc while Sony got about 1.2 cents per disc, according to analysts estimates. When some of the patents expired in 2001, Philips said its royalty revenue would drop by about $42 million. Collecting royalties is a great business.
The Blu-ray camp will likely move more cautiously than the DVD Forum in granting licenses to player and disc manufacturers, said Richard Doherty, principal analyst at the Envisioneering Group, adding that one of the reasons that the studios liked Blu-ray over HD DVD was it is probably easier to set up a pirate HD DVD shop.
Gartner analyst Van Baker, however, said he doesn't believe that Blu-ray will be as lucrative as DVD. For one thing, Blu-ray will have to compete against digital download services, which could prove popular with consumers. Second, the studios have been knocking down the royalty rates.
"This is what a lot of the negotiations were about," Baker said. "My suspicion is that this is not going to be as good as it was for DVD."
We don't know the royalty standards from Blu-ray. The consortium hasn't been aggressive about collecting them yet, but it will likely move into action once the industry gets moving.
The royalties will be split among several players, said Doherty.
Blu-ray has a lot of grandfathers. A lot of people call it a Sony standard but by our estimates Sony doesn't even have 30 percent of the IP," Doherty said. The top four intellectual property holders are likely Sony, Panasonic, Pioneer, and Warner.
Royalties were one of the primary reasons that it took so long to get manufacturers to come out with players that could handle both HD DVD and Blu-ray discs. Manufacturers with dual-format players have to license technology from both camps, which boosts costs.
"There are so many players. There is a lot of intellectual that went into this, and companies like Philips and Toshiba and Sony will all look for a return on investment," Rudy Provoost, the then-CEO of Philips Electronics told News.com in 2006. "That is what makes it a challenging debate. It's like the CD days. Everybody looks for a fair reward."
When a combo player did come out, it ended up being more expensive than buying separate Blu-ray and HD DVD players.
http://crave.cnet.com/8301-1_105-9874317-1.html?tag=cnetfd.mt
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Paramount seals Blu-ray sweep
http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/content_display/news/e3ic60f3f2e7077b9b8dc969933f25fc601
"All six major Hollywood studios are now in the Blu-ray Disc camp, a day after Toshiba has pulled the plug on HD DVD and Blu-ray became effectively the only next-gen game in town.
Paramount Home Entertainment quietly came onboard via a statement sent exclusively to The Hollywood Reporter on Wednesday: "We are pleased that the industry is moving to a single high-definition format, as we believe it is in the best interest of the consumer," the statement reads. "As we look to (begin) releasing our titles on Blu-ray, we will monitor consumer adoption and determine our release plans accordingly."
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Is this final already? If it is... bring 'em on!!! ;D
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Where r u Amir?
MY TWO CENTS - 2/21/08 - by Digital Bits editor Bill Hunt
NOW it's done. As in DONE done. Paramount just went Blu. Officially. Again. Here's the statement, sent to Home Media and The Hollywood Reporter this morning:
“We are pleased that the industry is moving to a single high-definition format, as we believe it is in the best interest of the consumer. As we look to [begin] releasing our titles on Blu-ray, we will monitor consumer adoption and determine our release plans accordingly."
Unfortunately, that was it. There were no further details. A number of open questions remain, including: Will Blu-ray versions of the just announced There Will Be Blood and Sweeney Todd be soon revealed? What about vocal Blu-backer Michael Bay's Transformers, which we've been informed WAS at least authored in Blu-ray? And for Trekkies who got caught up in Paramount partner CBS's HD-DVD exclusivity with an outrageously expensive Star Trek: The Original Series Remastered - Season One, what happens now? It's clear that Season Two and Three are no longer coming to HD-DVD, so when will ANY of them be available on Blu-ray? And will CBS and Paramount offer some kind of exchange program? All these questions must be answered in the weeks ahead, so watch this space.
By the way, one other new bit of Blu-ray information: The booklet in Disney's new 101 Dalmatians: Platinum Edition DVD confirms that Pinoccio will be the next Platinum Blu-ray after Sleeping Beauty (due later this year), presumably in 2009.
Stay tuned...
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http://tech.yahoo.com/blogs/patterson/12764/blu-ray-trumps-hd-dvd-the-aftermath
Hope this hasn't been posted yet. For your reference.
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Something to frown about of what was and might have been... :P :P :P
Major movie studios back HD-DVD format
29 November 2004 7:52 by James "Dela" Delahunty
Four major movie studios Warner, Paramount, Universal and New Line Cinema have endorsed the HD-DVD format according to the discs co-creator Toshiba. The 4 studios represent a huge 45% of the major studios' DVD output in the United States. However, it will take at least a year before pre-recorded HD-DVD's will be available. Sony are also promoting their new Blu-ray format. Both technologies use blue laser technology instead of the current red laser technology. Blue light's shorter wavelength means that the 'spots' on the disc's surface used to encode digital data can be smaller. For this reason it is easier to fit higher capacities of data onto a 12cm disc.
HD-DVD offers 20GB a disc, but Sony's Blu-Ray format beats it by 5GB more, offering just around 25GB of data on a 12cm disc. However, the main difference between the two formats is that one would require more change than the other. The Blu-Ray is on the downside because it would require the need for new disc production lines. As for HD-DVD, all it would require is existing DVD pressing rigs to be retooled rather than replaced. Sony will be using Blu-Ray technology in their upcoming Playstation 3 console.
http://www.afterdawn.com/news/archive/5832.cfm
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its water under the bridge now, and 3 of those studios were all neutral before
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Blu-ray player sales up seven-fold
http://www.t3.com/news/blu-ray-player-sales-up-seven-fold?=35296
"Play.com big-boss-man tells T3 that new Blu-ray punters have sky-rocketed, since the end of the format war.
Those cagey folk who refused to hedge their bets in Hi-Def Match showdown sure didn't waste much time once Toshiba closed the door on HD-DVD, this week.
Play's Stuart Rowe informs us that on VHD (Victory in Hi-Def) Day this Tuesday, the company sold more Blu-ray players than in the previous week combined.
"There was a seven fold increase in Blu-ray player sales, on that day alone." said the Chief Operating Officer.
"People have been waiting a long time to move into the Hi-Def era and now they have the confidence that this is going to be the format.
"Our cheapest player (The Samsung BD-P1400/XEU) is now £199 and you'd expect the prices to come down further as Sony try and build the brand. It's all great news for the consumer."
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Sony BMG Bumps 'Beyonce Experience' Blu-ray
Fri Feb 22, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
(http://specials.rediff.com/movies/2007/oct/29slide2.jpg)
Only days before it was due in stores, Sony BMG has announced an indefinite delay for the planned late-February Blu-ray bow of 'The Beyonce Experience.'
As we first reported early last month, Sony BMG had planned to bring the "Irreplaceable" singer's first solo high-def release 'The Beyonce Experience - Live at Madison Square Garden' to Blu-ray on February 26 (the title had previously been released on standard DVD back in November).
The distributor now says that 'The Beyonce Experience' has been yanked from its schedule due to "last-minute production delays." Although they stopped short of issuing a new street date, a company spokesperson tells us that the release is now on track for a re-announce "sometime later this year."
At press time, there were no changes to the disc's previously announced specs, which were set to include 1080i video and uncompressed PCM 5.1 Surround audio. We'll keep you posted of any future updates or additions.
SOURCE: HighDef Digest
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MY TWO CENTS - 2/22/08 - by Digital Bits editor Bill Hunt
For those of you wondering when Paramount is going to be announcing more details about their Blu-ray plans, the answer is soon. We've heard from a few replication and retail sources now that the studio has a number of new and catalog BD titles already in the works. We would expect to start seeing announcements in the next couple of weeks. On a related note, the studio has just pulled the HD-DVD listings off their press website (though the already announced titles are still in the database). So again we expect Blu-ray listings to be added soon, and we'll bring you all the official details as they come in.
A quick word of advice to Paramount (and CBS): You guys REALLY need to say something about what you plan to do with Star Trek: The Original Series - Remastered on Blu-ray, and soon. We're getting TONS of e-mails from frustrated Trekkies, some of whom spent a lot of money on the HD-DVD Combo version of Season One, and who are now trying to figure out what they're going to
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Universal: HD DVD Plans in Flux
Fri Feb 22, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5221/original.jpeg)
With Universal having thrown its weight behind Blu-ray earlier this week, the studio says the fate of its remaining HD DVD releases is currently TBD.
Though the studio has yet to make any formal announcements, when asked to confirm recent retail reports that it was planning a March 18 HD DVD debut for the Oscar nominee 'Atonement,' a Universal rep told us that the studio's entire HD DVD slate is currently in flux -- leaving open the possibility that it may not issue any more titles in the format.
As for which titles might be affected by such a move, prior to Tuesday's announcement, Universal had only confirmed two upcoming HD DVD releases: the Chevy Chase comedy 'Fletch' (due March 11), and the Tom Hanks-Julia Roberts starrer, 'Charlie Wilson's War' (which had been planned for sometime in the April-May timeframe).
At press time, the majority of titles on the HD DVD release schedule were split between Warner and Paramount/DreamWorks. As we've previously reported, Warner recently reiterated their intention to continue supporting the format until the end of May, while Paramount has yet to set a timetable for its own move to Blu-ray (just this week, the studio issued fresh details for two upcoming HD DVD releases, 'Sweeney Todd' and 'There Will Be Blood.')
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Direct-to-Video 'Sublime' Bound for Blu-ray, HD DVD
Fri Feb 22, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5204/original.jpeg)
Warner Premiere and Raw Feed will debut their first next-gen title this Spring, with the release of 'Sublime' on Blu-ray and HD DVD.
A dark, twisted tale of terror starring Tom Cavanaugh as an unwitting patient trapped in the mysterious Mt. Abaddon Hospital, 'Sublime' will hit Blu-ray in an unrated cut on April 22 (day-and-date with the standard DVD), followed three weeks later by an HD DVD version on May 13.
Bonus features shared across all versions include an audio commentary by director Tony Krantz and screenwriter Erik Jendresen, two making-of featurettes ( "Surgical Exorcism," "The Shebeen Josie"), and the music video "Have No Fear" by Bird York
Tech specs have not yet been announced, but we'll keep you posted. Suggested retail for the Blu-ray and HD DVD has been set at $28.99 a piece.
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Kelan kaya ang announcement na ganito:
Breaking News!!! Toshiba goes Blu-Ray exclusive! ;D ;D;D
Mukhang eto na yun sir ;D
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After HD DVD Drop, Toshiba Spends $835M to Back PS3
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The 90nm Cell/B.E. package as found in the PlayStation 3, now to be manufactured by Toshiba. (Source: DailyTech)Sony gives Toshiba something in return for its troubles -- Japanese Cell chip plants for $835M
A new twist has emerged with the death of HD DVD. After Warner, Best Buy, Walmart and Netflix jumped on the Blu bandwagon, the fate of HD DVD was already sealed.
Despite the grim news, the principle HD DVD developer, Toshiba Corporation, refused to initially comment on its plans for its HD DVD. However, as many analysts predicted, Toshiba came out last week and officially surrendered to Blu-ray.
Many saw Toshiba's willingness to give up on HD DVD as a logical business decision and perhaps an admission of Blu-ray's superiority. However, there might be a little more to the story. Reuters reports that on Wednesday Toshiba and Sony Corporation, one of Blu-ray's principle developers, agreed to a major business deal, reached just after Toshiba made its final HD DVD decision.
Sony agreed to sell it microchip processing facilities in western Japan for approximately $835M USD. These facilities currently produce Cell processors and RSX graphic chips. Toshiba will enter the joint venture with Sony on April 1, 2008.
Toshiba, IBM and Sony were the principle developers of the Cell microprocessor, but Toshiba previously showed little interest in using the chip for any of its own projects. Sony touts the Cell broadband engine in its Playstation 3 consoles; IBM uses the Cell processor in high performance computing clusters. Toshiba has vowed to now use the Cell in its upcoming products.
While Toshiba and Sony entered into talks back in October 2007 and reached a tentative agreement to sell the cell facilities, the two companies continued to haggle about the price. Sony's concession of what is considered a favorable price for Toshiba will likely strike many following Toshiba's drop as HD DVD as more than a coincidence, and perhaps a sign of an informal agreement.
The other interesting aspect of the move is that it indicates a clear shift by Toshiba to back the PS3. The PS3, which last month outsold Microsoft's Xbox 360, previously had few ties to the company; while Microsoft's number one ally in hardware manufacturing has always been Toshiba. Toshiba manufacturers several components for the Xbox 360, including the HD DVD add-on, and the Microsoft Zune MP3 players.
Toshiba's flip-flop may have been in the cards for a while. Microsoft showed little remose as HD DVD took second place to Blu-ray; a move Toshiba must have recognized from its American ally. Now the solidified PS3 venture between Sony and Toshiba indicates that Toshiba now has switched to backing the PS3 almost exclusively, another victory for Sony.
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Source: http://www.dailytech.com/After+HD+DVD+Drop+Toshiba+Spends+835M+to+Back+PS3/article10826.htm
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Xbox 360 Discontinues HD DVD Support
http://www.newsoxy.com/news/xbox-360/article10404.htm
"Xbox 360 support for the HD DVD drive ends after Toshiba announced it will end production of the former drive. The unexpected announcement sends Sony's Blu-ray into the winning format battle, perhaps the new HD DVD industry standard.Mirosoft dropped the price on the HD DVD add-on package to clear inventory without notifying consumers of the recent changes. The Xbox 360 maker would not confirm if they plan to offer a Blu-ray add-on for the gaming console.
With high-def DVDs and players costing significantly more than their standard-def counterparts, most consumers haven't yet made the dazzling jump to high-def DVDs, thus far relegating them to a niche market.
The PlayStation 3 already comes with an internal blu-ray drive currently making it one of the cheapest ways for consumers to play the high definition media DVDs."
not surprising though, Toshiba was the one making their drives?
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Disney Unwraps 'National Treasure' Blu-ray Details
Mon Feb 25, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5049/original.jpeg)
Disney has unveiled full details for its Blu-ray release of 'National Treasure,' including several brand new special features.
As we've previously reported, Disney recently confirmed a May 20 Blu-ray arrival for 'National Treasure,' which will hit stores day-and-date with the Blu-ray and standard DVD debut of its blockbuster sequel, 'National Treasure: Book of Secrets.'
Though initial specs for 'National Treasure' were scarce, Disney has now issued the full press announce, which sees the $150 million-grossing Nicolas Cage smash enjoying an unexpected bounty of all-new exclusive content.
New to the Blu-ray will be "Mission History," a look inside the Declaration of Independence that boasts more than 70 minutes of new video content. Also newly-unearthed for the high-def version will be a never-before-released audio commentary with director Jon Turteltaub and actor Justin Bartha.
Rounding out the package are all of the bonus features found on the original DVD edition, including three making-of featurettes ("National Treasure On Location," "The Knights Templar," "Treasure Hunters Revealed"), the "Riley's Decode This!" interactive featurette that includes a trio of puzzling challenges, deleted scenes and an alternate ending with optional director's audio commentary, and an opening scene animatic (also with optional Director's audio commentary)
Tech specs feature a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video, uncompressed PCM 5.1 Surround (48kHz/24-bit) audio, and optional Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround and subtitle options in English, French and Spanish.
Suggested etail for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.98.
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Batman: Gotham Knight Revealed
Posted February 25, 2008 01:46 PM
(http://www.blu-ray.com/images/news/icons/wb.jpg)
Warner Bros. Warner Home Video has announced that they will bring 'Batman: Gotham Knight' to Blu-ray on July 8th, day-and-date with the DVD release. The direct-to-video animated release will feature numerous animated segments which have been written a directed by different production teams, including those behind the film releases of 'Batman Begins' and 'The Dark Knight' as well as the award winning 'Batman: The Animated Series'.
Video will be presented in 1.78:1 1080p VC-1. Extras include the following:
* A Mirror for the Bat: The Evil Denizens of Gotham City - A stimulating documentary covering Gotham City's most nefarious of characters, combined with a look into the symbiotic relationship Batman shares with his enemies.
* Sneak Peek: Wonder Woman - DC Universe animated original movie
* Batman and Me a Devotion of Destiny: The Bob Kane Story - The comprehensive chronology of the remarkable life of the creator of Batman.
* Batman: The Animated Series Bonus Episodes - Bruce Timm selects his favorite episodes from Batman: The Animated Series.
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Addendum to the news above:
Direct-to-Video 'Batman: Gotham Knight' Bound For Blu-ray
Tue Feb 26, 2008 at 12:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5242/original.jpeg)
Warner Premiere has announced a July Blu-ray arrival for its latest direct-to-high-def release, the DC Comics animated anthology, 'Batman: Gotham Knight.'
Featuring the voice of big-screen Batman (Christian Bale), 'Gotham Knight' combines segments written and directed by several different production teams, including the filmmakers behind the live-action 'Batman Begins' and 'Batman: The Animated Series.'
The second next-gen release from Warner Premiere and DC (following 'Justice League: The Final Frontier,' hitting Blu-ray this week), 'Gotham Knight' is due July 8, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
There were no tech specs available at press time, but bonus features are set to include the documentary "A Mirror for the Bat: The Evil Denizens of Gotham City," the "Batman and Me a Devotion of Destiny: The Bob Kane Story" featurette, a pair of bonus episodes from 'Batman: The Animated Series' (personally selected by 'Gotham Knight' director Bruce Timm), and a special sneak peek at the upcoming DC Comics/Warner Premiere animated movie, 'Wonder Woman.'
Warner has set a suggested retail price for the Blu-ray of $34.98.
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m going to go broke after =( m planing to get all Batman thingies
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Microsoft Bids Farewell to HD DVD
To the surprise of no one, Microsoft officially announced Monday that it would withdraw from HD DVD, ceasing production of its Xbox 360 HD DVD add-on, effective immediately.
One of the format's key technology backers, Microsoft played a leading role in evangelizing HD DVD to the early adopter community from the format's earliest days. It also famously launched the Xbox 360 HD DVD add-on in late 2006 in an effort to help combat Sony's Blu-ray enabled PS3.
In a statement issued Monday, the software giant said it would continue to provide standard product and warranty support for all Xbox 360 HD DVD Players in the market. The company also dropped the MSRP on its remaining stock to a record-low of $49.99.
The full text of Microsoft's statement follows below:
As a result of recent decisions made by Toshiba, Hollywood studios, and retailers, Microsoft plans to withdraw from HD DVD. Xbox will no longer manufacture new HD DVD players for the Xbox 360, but we will continue to provide standard product and warranty support for all Xbox 360 HD DVD Players in the market. As we stated earlier, we do not believe this decision will have any material impact on the Xbox 360 platform or our position in the marketplace. HD DVD is one of the several ways we offer a high definition experience to consumers and we will continue to give consumers the choice to enjoy digital distribution of high definition movies and TV shows directly to their living room, along with playback of the DVD movies they already own.
http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Xbox_360/Microsoft/Microsoft_Bids_Farewell_to_HD_DVD/1509
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Sana maging equivalent ng $50 din clearance price ng HD DVD add on drive dito sa Tokyo. I need another one for the wife's PC.
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I wonder if microsoft will release a add-on for a Bluray player...
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I wonder if microsoft will release a add-on for a Bluray player...
they already said they won't, they will just concentrate on downloads/VOD (their agenda all along...)
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At least there's truth to the $150 million bribe of Toshiba...
DreamWorks Animation: Still HD DVD Exclusive (For Now)
Still contractually locked into HD DVD exclusivity, DreamWorks Animation says it's up to Toshiba to decide when the company can begin releasing discs on Blu-ray.
That's according to DreamWorks Animation CEO Jeffrey Katzenberg, who acknowledged in an interview with Reuters Tuesday that his company was "well-compensated" for its HD DVD exclusivity, and that it was awaiting word from Toshiba on how to proceed.
"It really is in their court at this point to really declare what the next step will be," explained Katzenberg. "We're poised either way to jump into the marketplace when the conditions are right to do so."
Though DreamWorks Animation is an independently owned company, Paramount Pictures (corporate parent of sister studio DreamWorks SKG) announced its own intention to return to Blu-ray last Thursday. At press time it wasn't clear how (or if) the HD DVD exclusivity terms for the two companies were different.
'Bee Movie' is the only upcoming DreamWorks Animation title currently on the HD DVD schedule. Katzenberg told Reuters he was waiting to hear back from Toshiba on how to proceed with that title.
http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Industry_Trends/DreamWorks/DreamWorks_Animation:_Still_HD_DVD_Exclusive_(For_Now)/1516
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And heeeree's everyones favorite, Blueboi Bill
MY TWO CENTS - 2/27/08 - by Digital Bits editor Bill Hunt
You know.... DreamWorks CEO Jeffrey Katzenberg is one of those guys who just makes you scratch your head and wonder. Back in March of 2007, he had this to say on the subject of high-def discs to Variety: "Blu-ray and HD-DVD are a niche business. They're not going to become the next platform. I think for the general consumer, there is not a big enough delta between the standard DVD in terms of where it is today and the next generation." But then in August, his company takes a widely reported $100 million offer from Toshiba to abandon Blu-ray and go HD-DVD exclusive. Paramount is said to have accepted $50 million to do the same. Disney's Bob Iger called foul to the Hollywood Reporter, saying: "Those studios are largely taking easy money, and it will cost them in the future." At the time, Katzenberg basically side-stepped the payment issue by suggesting that the Blu-ray studios were compensated for their support of that format too: "It's somewhat disingenuous for other companies to suggest that they were not compensated for endorsing Blu-ray." Which Iger proceeded to deny outright at an investor's conference: "We haven't taken any money because we think it's far and away the best business. I think it's a foregone conclusion about which [format] will win." Turns out Iger was right. DreamWorks proceeded to release only a handful of HD-DVD exclusive titles, none of which had much of an impact on Blu-ray's software sales momentum. Then Warner went Blu at CES. Every major video industry retailer went Blu within a month thereafter. Microsoft bailed on HD-DVD. Finally Toshiba officially threw in the towel on the HD-DVD format a little over a week ago, and both Universal and Paramount have announced their intention to support Blu-ray in the near future.
But now, just yesterday, DreamWorks' Katzenberg has reportedly said that his company is still locked into its deal to distribute movies on HD-DVD: "We have a partnership with Toshiba and have an obligation to see this through. As you know, we have been well-compensated for our support. It really is in their court at this point to really declare what the next step will be. We're poised either way to jump into the marketplace when the conditions are right to do so." Either Katzenberg is COMPLETELY out of touch with reality... and DreamWorks has the worst contract lawyers in Hollywood... or he's posturing for some reason. So what's really going on here?
Here's our take: He's posturing. Take this as VERY Rumor Mill-worthy, but here's what our industry sources are suggesting is happening behind-the-scenes. Very reliable sources are telling us that DreamWorks is currently authoring and replicating multiple new titles on the Blu-ray format for release in the coming months, including Bee Movie. They're also working on an official announcement of Blu-ray support. So why the new comments from Katzenberg? Well, our sources are hinting that as of the day Toshiba threw in the towel, DreamWorks and Paramount hadn't yet been paid the full $150 million they were promised for abandoning Blu-ray and supporting HD-DVD exclusively (it's generally standard practice in a deal like this for payments to be made in installments over the life of the deal, as various contractual milestones are reached). Both studios are reportedly negotiating with Toshiba as to just how much of the still unpaid amount they'll receive for having remained loyal to the end. That's why neither studio has officially announced new Blu-ray titles yet, and that's why Katzenberg is still talking about DreamWorks' loyalty to Toshiba. Having taken a big PR hit with Blu-ray fans for abandoning the format last year, DreamWorks and Paramount want to at least get as much of the promised payment from Toshiba too. As soon as this issue is sorted out however - and our sources say all parties are close to agreeing on a final amount - you'll see both Paramount and DreamWorks start announcing new Blu-ray titles.
Anyway, with a little luck, all this confusion will be cleared up in the next few weeks. So just be patient in the meantime. Hey, we've been saying all along that this format war was all about the benjamins. It's perhaps only fitting that the end of it is all about 'em too.
Stay tuned...
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An updated article from HDDigest:
Paramount Cancels Majority of HD DVD Slate (UPDATED)
Thu Feb 28, 2008 at 07:02 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4625/original.pjpeg)
UPDATE 6:45pm: We've received word from Paramount that DreamWorks Animation will also follow its studio parent and end HD DVD support. DreamWorks Animation sole remaining HD DVD release, 'Bee Movie' (originally scheduled for March 11) has been cancelled. We've updated our database accordingly.
Ending weeks of speculation, Paramount says 'Into the Wild' and 'Things We Lost in the Fire' will be its last two HD DVD releases.
Although the studio has yet to issue a formal statement, when asked to confirm retail reports that it had canceled the majority of its upcoming HD DVD slate, a Paramount rep told us that following the next week's HD DVD releases of 'Into the Wild' and 'Things We Lost in the Fire,' the studio will no longer issue any further titles on the format.
According to a just-published article in The Hollywood Reporter, the studio is expected to release its first new Blu-ray titles this summer.
Paramount (and its subsidiary DreamWorks) had nearly a half-dozen HD DVD titles scheduled for release through early Spring. Here is a complete list of the studio's previously-announced titles that have now been cancelled:
March 25: 'The Jack Ryan Collection,' 'The Kite Runner'
April 1: 'Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street'
April 15: 'There Will Be Blood '
Although Paramount stressed to us that their confirmation today did not cover titles released by the independently-owned DreamWorks Animation, Video Business is reporting that the studio's only currently scheduled HD DVD title 'Bee Movie' has also been canceled. At press time there was no official comment from DreamWorks Animation.
Needless to say, we'll keep you posted on further details of Paramount/DreamWorks transition to Blu-ray as they're announced.
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Wow! Super highly desired at HTF na yung HD DVD "Jack Ryan Collection". Kailangan huwag ninyo buksan para maganda ang value! ;D ;D ;D
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really sad for Paramount to cancel their releases.
at least, Warner will still release titles till May(are they?)
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Wow! Super highly desired at HTF na yung HD DVD "Jack Ryan Collection". Kailangan huwag ninyo buksan para maganda ang value! ;D ;D ;D
Ahem ahem ahem...Jack Ryan Collection in high def has been available in the usual torrent sites since October 2007. Ahem ahem ahem... ;D ;D ;D
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I will not be surprised if they released the cancelled titles in Blu very soon, looks like Warner is the last man standing releasing HD-DVD after next week...or will they???
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Ahem ahem ahem...Jack Ryan Collection in high def has been available in the usual torrent sites since October 2007. Ahem ahem ahem... ;D ;D ;D
Jack Sparrow versions are frowned upon... ;) ;) ;) No wonder why HD DVD lost the war.
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really sad for Paramount to cancel their releases.
at least, Warner will still release titles till May(are they?)
They have to. They will not profit from it since most people will buy Blu-ray rather than invest in HD DVD.
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'American Gangster' HD DVD Tops VideoScan's Weekly High-Def Disc Sales Chart
Fri Feb 29, 2008 at 04:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5298/original.jpeg)
Blu-ray may have officially won the high-def format war last week, but in a strange twist, the top selling high-def disc of the week was an HD DVD release.
Yes, you read right. Universal's 'American Gangster' -- released on the same day that Toshiba announced it would drop HD DVD support -- topped Neilsen VideoScan's First Alert high-def disc charts for the week ending February 24, 2008, outselling the top Blu-ray release ('Michael Clayton') by nearly 2:1.
Of course, the remaining nine titles on VideoScan's high-def best sellers chart were all Blu-ray titles, giving the format yet another weekly win in overall sales, with Blu-ray commanding 77% of all high-def disc sales for the week. (Thanks to Robert for the correction!)
A complete list of VideoScan's top ten high-def best sellers for the week follows below:
1. American Gangster (HD DVD); INDEX: 100
2. Michael Clayton (Blu-ray); INDEX: 62.24
3. The Rock (Blu-ray); INDEX: 27.26
4. Cars (Blu-ray); INDEX: 26.18
5. We Own the Night (Blu-ray); INDEX: 24.29
6. Planet Earth (Blu-ray); INDEX: 22.69
7. Con Air (Blu-ray); INDEX: 21.37
8. Gone Baby Gone (Blu-ray); INDEX: 19.89
9. Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest (Blu-ray); INDEX: 19.26
10. Crimson Tide (Blu-ray); INDEX: 18.28
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I think the studios should at least release the titles they already announced, kahit na in limited numbers.
HD-DVD owners are sure to gobble it up :D
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Speaking of gobbling up residual HD DVDs. Amazon still has two promos running for the red camp:
Save 50% on HD DVDs for a Limited Time Only
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/P/B000NU2NJ8.01._PE53_OU01_SCTZZZZZZZ_V26393543_.jpg) (http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/P/B000VBP38C.01._PE50_OU01_SCTZZZZZZZ_V14329360_.jpg) (http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/P/B000TZJBP6.01._PE50_OU01_SCTZZZZZZZ_V28477236_.jpg)
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Take up to 55% off Select HD DVDs
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Speaking of gobbling up residual HD DVDs. Amazon still has two promos running for the red camp
Another good chance for HD DVD fans to pick up their favourite movies.... ;D
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I read somewhere Universal will lower their msrp on March 4. So if the 50 plus percent sale continues tom, I think this will indeed be excellent pricing for those who still buy hddvds. Time for me to email amazon for some credit for the 30 day guarantee on my recent purchases ;D. Hopefully it will be approved.
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Speaking of gobbling up residual HD DVDs. Amazon still has two promos running for the red camp:
Save 50% on HD DVDs for a Limited Time Only
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/P/B000NU2NJ8.01._PE53_OU01_SCTZZZZZZZ_V26393543_.jpg) (http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/P/B000VBP38C.01._PE50_OU01_SCTZZZZZZZ_V14329360_.jpg) (http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/P/B000TZJBP6.01._PE50_OU01_SCTZZZZZZZ_V28477236_.jpg)
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Take up to 55% off Select HD DVDs
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ot yata, i just purchased some blurays from amazon, i had it shipped to my sister's house sa california, good thing she is coming home this march, but does amazon ship to the philippines, the last time kasi hindi sila pumayag. pero that was years ago, just reactivated my account now because of the cheaper blurays than here. pina ship ko kaagad sa sis ko.
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ot yata, i just purchased some blurays from amazon, i had it shipped to my sister's house sa california, good thing she is coming home this march, but does amazon ship to the philippines, the last time kasi hindi sila pumayag. pero that was years ago, just reactivated my account now because of the cheaper blurays than here. pina ship ko kaagad sa sis ko.
Yes, amazon ships dvds, cds, and HD discs to the Philippines...
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Yes, amazon ships dvds, cds, and HD discs to the Philippines...
oreoshake, thanks, question? what kind of shipping do you use, the one that delivers to your house or the one that you have to pick up via post office, the one i used before was via the post office and it took i think around a two months before it came and the guys there said anything above $100 would be taxed.
thanks in advance.
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Most peeps now have their orders shipped via Johnny Air Cargo to avoid the inconvnience of the Post Office. A one time application is needed . Please search the forums regarding Johnny Air Cargo for details.
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oreoshake, thanks, question? what kind of shipping do you use, the one that delivers to your house or the one that you have to pick up via post office, the one i used before was via the post office and it took i think around a two months before it came and the guys there said anything above $100 would be taxed.
thanks in advance.
Depends.. if more than $100.00, I ship thru JAC. If less than that, and the shipping fee does not differ much between JAC and International shipping, then I choose JAC. But most of the time, I ask around among my friends if they have relatives going home and I then send the discs to them para tipid na sa freight. $20 to $30 is still money saved. Pang-gasolina na rin yan.. hehehe
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Universal Ends HD DVD Support with 'Atonement'
Mon Mar 03, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/1/1853/original.jpeg)
Universal has confirmed that it will close the curtain on its HD DVD support with this month's release of 'Atonement.'
Although the studio has yet to issue a formal statement, when asked to comment on reports that it had pulled its planned Spring HD DVD release of 'Charlie Wilson's War,' a Universal rep confirmed to High-Def Digest that the studio will no longer issue new titles on the format following the March 18 HD DVD debut of 'Atonement.'
As we've previously reported, the studio waited only hours after Toshiba pulled the plug on HD DVD to announce its own intention to make the move to Blu-ray (at press time, Universal had yet to reveal plans for their first Blu-ray titles).
Today's confirmation from Universal leaves the studio with only one HD DVD title awaiting release prior to 'Atonement,' the March 11th debut of 'Fletch'
Universal's news follows Paramount/DreamWorks' announcement last week that they will end their HD DVD support with this week's releases of 'Into the Wild' and 'Things We Lost in the Fire.' This now leaves Warner as the last major studio still releasing HD DVD titles beyond this month (the studio has previously said that it will honor its pledge to continue dual-format releases through the end of May).
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Warner Targets June For 'Dirty Harry' Blu-ray Set
Tue Mar 04, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5319/original.jpeg)
Dirty Harry fans, mark your calendars: Warner has set an early June Blu-ray arrival for all five of the Clint Eastwood vigilante classics.
Dubbed 'Dirty Harry: The Ultimate Collection,' and featuring all five films in the famous franchise ('Dirty Harry,' 'Magnum Force,' 'The Enforcer,' 'Sudden Impact,' 'The Dead Pool'), the long-awaited box set is due to fire on Blu-ray June 3, day-and-date with a set of new DVD re-issues.
As Warner has yet to issue a full media announcement, there were no tech specs or supplemental details at press time, but the studio has told us that each film in the series will be newly remastered, and that the box set will boast numerous bonus features.
There was also no word yet on whether the studio has plans to issue the five Dirty Harry films as standalone Blu-ray releases. Needless to say, we'll keep you posted.
While we await the full announcement, you'll find preliminary specs for 'Dirty Harry: Ultimate Collection' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under June 3.
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MY TWO CENTS - 3/4/08 - by Digital Bits editor Bill Hunt
Now then... we've been getting a lot of e-mails today about Toshiba CEO Atsutoshi Nishida's recent comments to The Wall Street Journal. Specifically, one of the things he said (that readers have been asking us about) was this:
"What people don't realize is that Hollywood studios are going to release new titles not just for Blu-ray but for standard DVDs as well, and there are a far greater number of current-generation DVD players out there. If you watch standard DVDs on our players, the images are of very high quality because they include an "upconverting" feature. And we're going to improve this even more, so that consumers won't be able to tell the difference from HD DVD images. The players would be much cheaper than Blu-ray players too. Next-generation DVD players are in a much weaker position than when standard DVD players were first introduced."
For the record, this idea that upconverted standard DVD video quality will EVER look as good as true high-definition video is complete hogwash. Upconverting basically takes 480p video and mathematically adds scan lines to increase the effective output resolution to 1080p. The problem is that this process effectively magnifies the original video image. So if the 480p video has warts or defects (whether on the original film print or compression artifacting in the DVD master), those are going to be even more noticeable when upconverted. It's the old "garbage in, garbage out" principle. On the other hand, many of the new transfers being done for true high-definition releases on Blu-ray (and for a time HD-DVD) are actually being done at 2K or even 4K or higher resolution, and then they're downconverted to 1080p. That allows the maximum possible image detail to be included in the signal. An upconverted 480p DVD is NEVER going to be able to compete with that. That's not to say that upconverted DVDs may not be good enough for some consumers, but this idea that you won't be able to tell the difference is utter nonsense. Anyone who becomes interested in high-def, and there are more and more such consumers all the time, will see right through this.
We've gotten another question today from a few readers (albeit in various differently worded forms): Is there any possibility that Toshiba is negotiating with Paramount to stick with standard DVD and NOT support Blu-ray Disc?
The answer is no. We've confirmed that Paramount has MANY Blu-ray Disc titles already in the works, and we expect the first official announcements very soon.
Finally today, we've just heard back from Universal - Atonement WILL be the studio's last HD-DVD release on 3/18. All HD-DVD's previously announced for release after that date are cancelled. The studio is still firming up its Blu-ray slate and will be making announcements in the next few weeks.
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Warner Targets June For 'Dirty Harry' Blu-ray Set
Tue Mar 04, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5319/original.jpeg)
Dirty Harry fans, mark your calendars: Warner has set an early June Blu-ray arrival for all five of the Clint Eastwood vigilante classics.
Dubbed 'Dirty Harry: The Ultimate Collection,' and featuring all five films in the famous franchise ('Dirty Harry,' 'Magnum Force,' 'The Enforcer,' 'Sudden Impact,' 'The Dead Pool'), the long-awaited box set is due to fire on Blu-ray June 3, day-and-date with a set of new DVD re-issues.
As Warner has yet to issue a full media announcement, there were no tech specs or supplemental details at press time, but the studio has told us that each film in the series will be newly remastered, and that the box set will boast numerous bonus features.
There was also no word yet on whether the studio has plans to issue the five Dirty Harry films as standalone Blu-ray releases. Needless to say, we'll keep you posted.
While we await the full announcement, you'll find preliminary specs for 'Dirty Harry: Ultimate Collection' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under June 3.
Man awesome, must have for me.
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Sony "in talks" with Microsoft about a Xbox 360 Blu-ray drive[/b]
About 48 milliseconds after the format war was officially over, rumors started running rampant (again) about Blu-ray making its way over to Microsoft's latest console. Now, however, those rumors actually have some legs -- well, at least a leg. According to Stan Glasgow, Sony Electronics US president, "Sony is in talks with console rival Microsoft about offering a Blu-ray drive for the Xbox 360." For whatever it's worth, the exec also noted that it was having similar discussions with Apple, which has yet to even offer a Blu-ray option on any of its machines. Unfortunately, not a peep was uttered about potential launch dates and the like, but you can rest assured that we'll be keeping an ear dangerously close to the ground.
http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/06/sony-in-talks-with-microsoft-about-a-xbox-360-blu-ray-d/
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Related to news item above...
Microsoft: “We’ll support Blu-ray”
Fri Mar 07, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5368/original.jpeg)
Amid rumors that Microsoft is in talks to add Blu-ray support to its Xbox 360 game console, CEO Steve Ballmer has indicated the company’s intention to support the remaining high-def format.
As reported by The Seattle Post-Intelligencer, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer took part in an onstage conversation at the company’s Mix08 Internet conference in Las Vegas Thursday, where the topics discussed included Microsoft’s high-def plans following the discontinuation of Toshiba’s HD DVD format.
Without offering specifics, Ballmer said the company will work to support Blu-ray.
“We've already been working on, for example, in Windows, device driver support for Blu-ray drives and the like,” Ballmer stated. “I think the world moves on. Toshiba has moved on. We've moved on, and we'll support Blu-ray in ways that make sense.”
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Lionsgate Boxes Up 'Rambo' Trilogy on Blu-ray
Fri Mar 07, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
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Announcing yet more Rambo on high-def, Liongate says it will bundle the first three films in the Sly Stallone franchise as a Blu-ray box set this May.
As we've previously reported, Lionsgate has turned May 27 into unofficial "Rambo Day" on Blu-ray, announcing a concurrent release of stand-alone editions of 'Rambo: First Blood Part II,' 'Rambo III' and the recent theatrical release 'Rambo.' (Lionsgate released the first film in the explosive saga, 'First Blood,' on Blu-ray back in February 2007.)
For fans who want to own the entire original trilogy at a lower price, Lionsgate plans to package the first three films together as the 'Rambo Box Set,' also to be made available on Blu-ray May 27. (Oddly, the fourth 'Rambo' is not included in the set, and will remain available only as a stand-alone release.)
Carrying a suggested list price of $49.98, the 'Rambo' bundle will offer a savings of at least $20 compared to buying each title separately. ('First Blood' currently carries an MSRP of $29.95, while 'Rambo II' and 'Rambo III' are each priced at $19.95.)
Note that the 'Rambo Box Set' will be identical to the stand-alone versions, with no new bonus features or other exclusives announced.
Finally, Lionsgate has issued box art for the 'Rambo' bundle:
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5361/original.jpeg)
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Warner Promises 10 Blu-ray/Book Combos This Year
Warner Home Video has revealed that they plan to issue 10 Blu-ray/coffee book combination releases this year. The two announced so far, will be the March 25th release of 'Bonnie and Clyde' and the June 3rd release of 'Dirty Harry' (not the previously revealed box set). Other releases getting similar treatment will be 'Woodstock', releases from the 'Harry Potter' franchise, 'Bladerunner' (already released on Blu-ray as a collection), 'Gone with the Wind' and 'North by Northwest'.
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HD DVD Fire Sale In Slow Burn
Retailers that used to be format agnostic are now ridding themselves of HD DVD software and players, albeit with caution.
Circuit City Stores featured Toshiba’s third-generation HD-A30 player for $199.99, which included free copies of 300 and The Bourne Identity. It offered two free HD DVD titles with in-store purchases of three movies at $29.99 each.
Online, it offered the HD-A30 for $129.99 after a $70 mail-in rebate and the HD-A3 for $99 following a $50 rebate. HD DVD titles were limited to a selection of nine, priced from $19.99.
LG Electronics and Samsung Electronics’ dual-format players remained priced at $799.99 each — the former after a $200 mail-in rebate.
“We are definitely in clearance mode,” said Circuit City spokesperson Jim Babb.
He said a market remains for HD DVD players, which he said sales personnel were marketing to consumers as devices that would up convert DVDs to high-definition resolution.
Regardless, Babb said Circuit City extended from 30 days to 90 days the time consumers could return purchased HD DVD players — not movies — for store credit.
“[HD DVD players] are very good DVD players,” Babb said. “We expect to be through the stock in a few weeks.”
Best Buy Co. Inc. made no mention of HD DVD in its Sunday circular, opting instead to market Panasonic’s BD-30K Blu-ray Disc player for $499.99, or at no charge with the purchase of any HDTV above $1,000.
On its Web site, Best Buy offered 425 HD DVD titles priced from $9.09, for as The Contract (First Look Home Entertainment) to $55.99 for boxed sets of “Planet Earth,” “Heroes” and “The Ultimate Matrix Collection,” among others.
Spokesperson Brian Lucas said the nation’s No. 1 HD packaged media retailer will continue to competitively sell and stock HD DVD hardware and software dependent on consumer demand.
“We are still selling HD DVD, and we are not blowing the doors off the price,” Lucas said. “As long as people are still making HD DVD movies, we’ll keep stocking them.”
The biggest savings on HD DVD players and software could be found online, with both Amazon and eBay offering product at drastically reduced prices.
HDDVDBoxSets.com, a fulfillment site working with Amazon, offered the HD-A3 for $79.99 and HD-A30 for $123. The site also offered refurbished and used players. Titles ranged from $25.
Online auction site eBay boasted more than 3,446 HD DVD items, including 857 players with prices starting below $100.
Independent media analyst Rob Enderle with The Enderle Group in San Jose, Calif., said traditional retailers’ reluctance to commit to an all-out HD DVD fire sale is due in part to residual consumer demand and a dearth of available second-generation Blu-ray Disc players.
“The problem is the first 2.0 compliant player [other than Sony’s PS3] won’t show up until late summer,” Enderle said.
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Blu-ray's Battle Has Only Just Begun
Author: HOME THEATER FORUM
The costly format war between Toshiba’s HD DVD and Sony’s Blu-ray Disc has come to an end. Blu-ray has emerged from the fray victorious, while HD DVD has unceremoniously left the field. So Blu-ray will naturally assume the mantle of DVD’s heir-apparent, right?
Maybe. But the reality is the war with HD DVD was just a battle. There are still tough times ahead for Blu-ray, as the real war for market dominance against DVD is just beginning.
In order to overcome the tremendous inertia of DVD, Blu-ray has to offer buyers something new and innovative. Short of having price parity with DVD, it needs to wow consumers in a way it currently doesn’t.
With low-cost up-converting players available, Blu-ray offers very little practical improvement over DVD for the average consumer. It is banking on its super high-quality audio and video, but the cost of entry for these improvements isn’t cheap.
With the retail pricing of some bare-bones discs around $40 and full-profile standalone players costing $500 (all added to the price of an HDTV), the format is strictly for eager enthusiasts. For the wider public, the numbers just don’t add up yet. Consumers need to feel it’s worth the premium to buy into the format.
If the studios are smart, they will focus on the value proposition by expanding the format’s largely untapped potential as a fully interactive experience, while reducing prices to lure new buyers. Likewise, Blu-ray player manufacturers must begin reducing hardware prices.
If Blu-ray can offer creative features and a quality viewing experience at a reasonable price, it has a shot, but it must move fast since there is only a brief window to succeed thanks to the hovering threat of cheap high-definition Web downloads.
For now the format’s future is still uncertain, and the eyes of many will be closely scrutinizing its direction over the coming months. Any wrong step could still see it consigned to the scrap heap of dead formats that have tried valiantly and failed. Any doubts? Just ask Toshiba.
http://www.homemediamagazine.com/news/html/buzz_article.cfm?sec_id=buzz
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Disney Unveils Full Specs, Box Art for 'Narnia' Blu-ray
Wed Mar 12, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
Disney has revealed new details for the highly-anticipated Blu-ray release of 'Chronicles of Narnia,' which will hit high-def this May as a two-disc set with hours of bonus features and exclusive content.
As we first reported last month, 'The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe' will make its long-awaited Blu-ray debut on May 13 as one of the most eagerly-awaited next-gen releases of the year.
Full specs are now in, with Disney porting over all of the bonus features found on the previous two-disc DVD special edition of the film. Among the numerous extras are two audio commentaries (the first with the filmmakers, the second a cast track with the film's young stars), a seven-part "Creating Narnia" documentary ("Chronicles Of A Director," "The Children's Magical Journey," "Evolution Of An Epic," "From One Man's Mind," "Cinematic Storytellers," "Creating Creatures", "Anatomy of a Scene: The Melting River"), an additional three-part "Creatures, Lands & Legends" feature ("Legends In Time,""Creatures Of The World," the "Explore Narnia" Interactive 3-D Map), and a "Bloopers Of Narnia" gag reel.
Although the studio indicated in early press materials that 'Narnia' would include picture-in-picture content, no such feature has yet been announced for the Blu-ray. However, exclusive to the release will be the new "Battle For Narnia" interactive game, which will make full use of the format's BD-Java capabilities.
Disney has also confirmed that the Blu-ray will feature the 135-minute theatrical version of the film (not the 147-minute extended version made available as a separate DVD release), which will be presented on a BD-50 dual-layer disc in 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and uncompressed PCM 5.1 Surround (48kHz/24-bit).
Finally, Disney has issued box art for 'Narnia':
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5337/original.jpeg)
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Blue Man Group to Make Blu-ray Debut with 'Megastar'
Thu Mar 13, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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There's no release date yet, but Rhino has announced plans to bring the Blue Man Group's concert film 'How to Be a Megastar Live!' to Blu-ray disc.
In a just-issued press release touting the upcoming DVD/CD release of 'Megastar,' Rhino says the 22-track live extravaganza will also be hitting Blu-ray sometime soon, though they stopped short of providing an actual street date.
There were no tech specs or supplement details available for the Blu-ray at press time. However, as the DVD/CD release contains several bonus features, our hopes remain high for the high-def version.
We'll keep you posted as soon as more information comes to us from Rhino.
In the meantime, you'll find a preliminary listing for 'Blue Man Group: How to Be a Megastar Live!' in the "Release Dates Pending" section of our Blu-ray Release Schedule.
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Fox Slashes Prices on Blu-ray Catalog
Becoming the first major studio to issue an extensive next-gen price cut, Fox has announced it is discounting nearly two dozen of its top Blu-ray catalog releases.
Effective immediately, the studio will reduce the list price of 22 Blu-ray titles by $10, from $39.98 to $29.98. (All discs are currently available for order at Amazon.com for between $14.49 and $19.95 each -- see the links at the bottom of the page.)
The complete list of newly-reduced Fox titles include: '28 Days Later,' 'Behind Enemy Lines,' 'Broken Arrow,' 'Cast Away,' 'Chain Reaction,' 'The Devil Wears Prada,' 'Edward Scissorhands,' 'Flight of the Phoenix (2004),' 'The Fly (1986),' 'From Hell,' 'Entrapment,' 'Fantastic Four,' 'Kiss of the Dragon,' 'The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen,' 'Men of Honor,' 'The Omen (2006),' 'Planet of the Apes (2001),' 'Rising Sun,' 'The Sentinel (2006),' 'Speed,' 'The Transporter' and 'Transporter 2.'
Although Fox's has issued no official comment on its pricing policies, a studio rep confirmed to us that the price reduction applies to these select titles only, and does not represent an across-the-board change in the studio's standard Blu-ray MSRP of $39.98.
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Fox/High-Def_Disc_Marketing/Fox_Slashes_Prices_on_Blu-ray_Catalog/1563 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Fox/High-Def_Disc_Marketing/Fox_Slashes_Prices_on_Blu-ray_Catalog/1563)
Bili na!!! ;D ;D ;D
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'Dirty Harry' Blu-ray Specs, Art
Go Ahead Punk, Make My Day Blu! ;D
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5395/original.jpeg)
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5396/original.jpeg)
As previously reported, Warner is bringing all five films in the classic Clint Eastwood vigilante saga -- 'Dirty Harry,' 'Magnum Force,' 'The Enforcer,' 'Sudden Impact,' and 'The Dead Pool' -- to Blu-ray on June 3. Dubbed the 'Dirty Harry: Ultimate Collection,' the six-disc set will arrive concurrently with a stand-alone version of the original 'Dirty Harry' (both Blu-ray titles will debut day-and-date with new standard DVD re-issues).
Though initial specs were sparse, Warner has now revealed the full contents of both the box set and the stand-alone 'Dirty Harry' Blu-ray, with the studio pulling out all the stops for what will be its biggest next-gen box set yet.
The following is a list of the complete supplemental features for all five of the Dirty Harry films in the 'Ultimate Collection,' as well as a bonus disc and additional collectible content exclusive to the box set release. (Note that the stand-alone Blu-ray edition of the original 'Dirty Harry' will contain the same extras as its box set counterpart, only sans the bonus disc and collectibles):
Dirty Harry
• Audio commentary by Richard Schickel
• Featurettes: "The Long Shadow of Dirty Harry," "Dirty Harry: The Original," "Dirty Harry's Way"
• Interview Gallery (includes interviews with Patricia Clarkson, Joel Cox, Clint Eastwood, Hal Holbrook, Evan Kim, John Milius, Ted Post, Andy Robinson, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Robert Urich)
• 1993 TV Special: "Clint Eastwood: The Man from Malpaso"
• Trailer gallery
• Collectible "Book" packaging with full-color booklet (stand-alone version only)
Magnum Force
• Audio commentary by writer John Milius
• Featurette: "A Moral Right: The Politics of Dirty Harry"
• "The Hero Cop: Yesterday and Today"
• Trailer gallery
The Enforcer
• Audio commentary by director James Fargo
• Featurettes: "The Business End: Violence in Cinema," "Harry Callahan/Clint Eastwood: Something Special in Films"
• Trailer gallery
Sudden Impact
• Audio commentary by renowned film critic Richard Schickel
• Featurette: "The Evolution of Clint Eastwood"
• Trailer gallery
The Dead Pool
• Audio commentary by producer David Valdes and Cinematographer Jack N. Green
• Featurette: "The Craft of Dirty Harry"
• Trailer gallery
Box Set Exclusives (Bonus Disc)
• Bonus documentary: "Clint Eastwood: Out of the Shadows"
• 40-page hardcover book
• Wallet with metal badge and removable laminated I.D. card
• Five 5”x 7” Reproduction Lobby Poster Cards plus an exclusive UCE card
• Scorpio Portrait of a Killer Poster-Sized (19” x 27”) map of San Francisco detailing Harry's hunt for the killer
• Never-Before-Seen Production Correspondence
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wow how much???
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Wow that's really nice!! :o
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Very very nice. Am a "Dirty Harry" fan. hehehehe
How much does the set cost?
TIA ;D
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wow how much???
Very very nice. Am a "Dirty Harry" fan. hehehehe
How much does the set cost?
TIA ;D
Excerpt from High Def Digest below. No pricing yet on this baby... ;)
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"Finally, Warner has revealed the following peek at the 'Dirty Harry' and 'Dirty Harry: Ultimate Collection' packaging. Warner has still not confirmed tech specs or the suggested list price for either 'Dirty Harry' or the 'Dirty Harry: Ultimate Collection,' but we'll keep you posted."
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Fox Fires Up 'Alien vs. Predator' Blu-ray Double-Header
Fri Mar 14, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
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In a studio first, Fox says it will bundle the hits 'Alien vs. Predator' and 'Alien vs. Predator: Requiem' as a Blu-ray two-pack this April.
As we've previously reported, 'Alien vs. Predator: Requiem' is set to make its next-gen debut on April 15 (day-and-date with the standard DVD). It follows the original 'Alien vs. Predator,' which Fox released on Blu-ray in early 2006.
In a bonus for fans who may have missed 'AvP' on Blu-ray the first time around, Fox has now confirmed that it will also offer a discounted Blu-ray two-pack featuring both AvP titles on April 15.
Carrying a suggested list price of $69.98, the AvP bundle will offer a savings of at least $10 compared to buying each title separately. (Amazon is already taking pre-orders for the bundle at $48.95.)
Note that although Fox recently revealed plans to release an upgraded version of 'Alien vs. Predator' (with all-new bonus features) on Blu-ray sometime in the second half of 2008, the studio has confirmed that the two-pack edition of 'AvP' will be identical to the current stand-alone release (as will be 'Requiem'). Box art for each individual title also remains the same.
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Warner Announces Dual 'Batman Begins' Blu-rays
Fri Mar 14, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/0/404/original.jpeg)
The wait is over: 'Batman Begins,' one of Warner's most highly-anticipated Blu-ray "catch-up" titles is due for release this July in standard and deluxe editions.
Originally released on HD DVD back in October 2006 (read our review), 'Batman Begins' is one of a handful of high-profile Warner titles that were previously held back from Blu-ray release due to the format's then-inability to support the studio's "In-Movie Experience" picture-in-picture commentary feature.
According to Home Media Magazine, the $200 million-grossing Christopher Nolan re-invention will hit Blu-ray on July 8 in two versions -- a standard Blu-ray version, and a 'Limited Edition Gift Set' featuring the same single-disc as the standard version plus deluxe packaging and a variety of collectibles.
Among the goodies in the Gift Set are a Batman Begins motion art lenticular, script pages, exclusive photos, storyboards, five collectible Batman Begins postcards, an exclusive comic book prologue to the upcoming sequel 'The Dark Knight'' (set to hit theaters July 18), plus $7.50 in Movie Cash towards buying a 'Dark Knight' ticket.
Warner has not yet issued tech specs or supplement details for 'Batman Begins,' but the Blu-rays are expected to include the PiP content found on the previous HD DVD version. We'll certainly keep you posted.
Suggested list price for the standard Blu-ray has been set at $28.99, while the Gift Set is set at $49.99.
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Anyone heard of this problem?
Finally today, we're hearing some reports that there may be problems with the DTS MA decoders in a number of new audio receivers - one that causes loud pops when listening to select DTS MA audio tracks. These pops are loud enough that they can cause damage to your speakers. A number of readers have reported this problem, and it's being discussed in various online forums as well. We're attempting to learn more on this, so just be aware of the issue and check back over the next few days for the latest updates.
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Title: The Devil's Own
Starring: Harrison Ford
Release date: 6th May 2008
SRP: $28.95
Further Details:
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced the release of The Devil's Own for the 6th of May, priced at around $28.95. Full specs for this bare-bones release can be found below, along with the art.
* 2.40:1 Widescreen Transfer (1080p)
* Audio: English TrueHD 5.1, French TrueHD 5.1, Portuguese TrueHD 5.1, Spanish 5.1
* Subtitles: Arabic, Chinese, Dutch, English, English SDH, French, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/thedevilsownbd2d_copy0.jpg)
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HD DVD Supporter Graffeo to leave high-def post at Universal
MARCH 26 | Following the death of HD DVD, one of the format’s gurus, Ken Graffeo, will leave his high-definition marketing role at Universal Studios Home Entertainment.
Although still employed at Universal, where he has served as executive VP of HD strategic marketing since early last year, Graffeo is exploring other opportunities, including ones outside of the studio. He didn’t specify a timetable for when he’ll make a final decision of whether to leave Universal.
Conceivably, Universal will need an executive to drive the marketing of its forthcoming titles in Blu-ray Disc, which the studio started backing exclusively shortly after HD DVD’s demise.
However, Graffeo said he will not take on a Blu-ray role at the studio, which could be comparable to his responsibilities for HD DVD. That sort of transition wouldn’t work because in recent months, Graffeo had become more entrenched in his additional role as head of the HD DVD Promotional Group and less involved with handling specific Universal titles. The HD DVD Promotional Group dissolved on the heels of Toshiba’s February announcement that it was ending its support for its HD DVD hardware.
“I was setting up that infrastructure [of the HD DVD Promotion Group] on a day to day basis,” said Graffeo. “And now that group is no longer in existence. … Now I’m looking at what my different options are and what my next moves will be.”
Although Blu-ray title sales outsold HD DVD titles on a two-to-one basis through much of last year, Graffeo aggressively promoted the HD DVD format. Under his charge, Universal rolled out the industry’s first title enhanced with e-commerce capabilities, the Oct. 9 HD DVD release Evan Almighty.
Universal hasn’t specified how it will operate its Blu-ray business going forward, and it has not announced its first releases in the format. It appears that the studio is still figuring out how a Blu-ray unit and/or executives will fit into its company and what their functions will be.
Prior to his high-def role at Universal, Graffeo served as executive VP of marketing.
http://www.videobusiness.com/article/CA6545296.html?desc=topstory
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Since the death of HD DVD, life became somewhat less exciting ... :-\ :-\ :-\
Los Angeles Best Buy moves out HD DVD software
MARCH 26 | At least one Best Buy has moved to return all unsold HD DVD software this week and has expanded its Blu-ray Disc merchandising at the same time.
Chain spokesman Brian Lucas said that there was no immediate plan underway to remove HD DVD stock nationwide. But all HD DVD titles had disappeared from the in-line racks of one Los Angeles Best Buy outlet by Wednesday afternoon.
Yet with new releases quickly drying up in the format, Lucas said, "I'm sure we will start doing that at some point."
Just a couple of weeks ago, there was room for 120 HD DVD facings at that same L.A. store. However, the L.A. outlet was nearly wiped out of its HD DVD copies at that time. Many shelf slots were vacant, and any featured titles encompassed just one or two units.
Today, in the spots previously held by HD DVD, the L.A. Best Buy had moved in a mixture of Blu-ray titles and some standard DVD product. Blu-ray rack facings totaled about 295, marking about a 50% increase from the March 14 week.
On Tuesday, popular high-definition fan blog AVSForum.com was buzzing about a possible Best Buy memo informing employees that HD DVD titles would be returned nationwide today. The memo explained that Blu-ray and/or standard DVD new release titles should fill the shelves previously designated as HD DVD sections.
It’s unclear if Best Buy is returning titles to their respective studio distributors or sending them to an inventory close-out firm.
Best Buy still had HD DVD titles for sale on its Web site. However, most titles were listed as being in limited availability or completely sold out.
After Warner Bros. decided to exclusively back Blu-ray earlier this year, Best Buy quickly decided to favor the format over HD DVD. The chain said it would emphasize Blu-ray over HD DVD starting in March.
At that time, however, the chain said it would still offer HD DVD titles as long as it made sense according to customer demand. Last month’s death of the HD DVD format likely has accelerated a drop in that demand for HD DVD software.
http://www.videobusiness.com/article/CA6545298.html
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(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/DIRTYHARRYULTIMATE.jpg)
DIRTY HARRY FANS (like me) .... this will "MAKE YOUR DAY!!!!". So, go ahead punk, drool.... in the meantime.
News gathered from the net:
Warner Home Video has officially announced the Blu-ray release of the 'Dirty Harry: Ultimate Collector's Edition' box set with a full range of special features for each disc, including extras only available when you purchase the box set. They have also confirmed that the special edition release of the original 'Dirty Harry' will be the only title to be released separately on Blu-ray, with all other "Dirty Harry" film available in high definition only in the box set.
Initial price: $90.95 ---- pre-order as release date slated on 03 June 2008.
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$90 lang? instabuy!
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$90 lang? instabuy!
hehe. sana nga bro. that was the posted price sa site.
not sure if it's accurate, though. but if that's the price, ayos. banat !!!! ;D ;D ;D
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Count me in....I'm one of DIRTY HARRY fans! :D
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Since the death of HD DVD, life became somewhat less exciting ... :-\ :-\ :-\
Los Angeles Best Buy moves out HD DVD software
MARCH 26 | At least one Best Buy has moved to return all unsold HD DVD software this week and has expanded its Blu-ray Disc merchandising at the same time.
Chain spokesman Brian Lucas said that there was no immediate plan underway to remove HD DVD stock nationwide. But all HD DVD titles had disappeared from the in-line racks of one Los Angeles Best Buy outlet by Wednesday afternoon.
Yet with new releases quickly drying up in the format, Lucas said, "I'm sure we will start doing that at some point."
Just a couple of weeks ago, there was room for 120 HD DVD facings at that same L.A. store. However, the L.A. outlet was nearly wiped out of its HD DVD copies at that time. Many shelf slots were vacant, and any featured titles encompassed just one or two units.
Today, in the spots previously held by HD DVD, the L.A. Best Buy had moved in a mixture of Blu-ray titles and some standard DVD product. Blu-ray rack facings totaled about 295, marking about a 50% increase from the March 14 week.
On Tuesday, popular high-definition fan blog AVSForum.com was buzzing about a possible Best Buy memo informing employees that HD DVD titles would be returned nationwide today. The memo explained that Blu-ray and/or standard DVD new release titles should fill the shelves previously designated as HD DVD sections.
It’s unclear if Best Buy is returning titles to their respective studio distributors or sending them to an inventory close-out firm.
Best Buy still had HD DVD titles for sale on its Web site. However, most titles were listed as being in limited availability or completely sold out.
After Warner Bros. decided to exclusively back Blu-ray earlier this year, Best Buy quickly decided to favor the format over HD DVD. The chain said it would emphasize Blu-ray over HD DVD starting in March.
At that time, however, the chain said it would still offer HD DVD titles as long as it made sense according to customer demand. Last month’s death of the HD DVD format likely has accelerated a drop in that demand for HD DVD software.
http://www.videobusiness.com/article/CA6545298.html
Observed this last Tuesday at 2 of my local Best Buy's here. All HD DVDs are gone replaced by BD movies. There wasn't even any "fire sale" for the HD DVDs.
Rumour is that Circuit City will have a 'fire sale' of HD DVDs this Sunday.
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Report: Blu-ray Disc Sales Impacting DVD
Thanks to the demise of HD DVD and increased Blu-ray retail momentum, next-gen disc sales are starting to carve out a bigger slice of the home video pie, a new report suggests.
According to an analysis of Nielsen VideoScan First Alert numbers conducted by Home Media Magazine, Disney's Blu-ray chart-topper 'No Country for Old Men' drew 9.8 percent of its total unit sales from Blu-ray during its first five days in stores.
Faring even better was Fox's 'Hitman,' which saw 12.6 percent of total customers taking home the Blu-ray version during its first five days.
By comparison, high-def percentages during the height of the format war rarely topped 2 to 3 percent of a title's total disc sales. (Even 2007's biggest high-def seller, the HD DVD-only release of 'Transformers,' generated little more than 4 percent of its total unit sales from the next-gen version.)
Adams Media Research analyst Tom Adams cited a newfound sense of confidence among consumers as the main reason for Blu-ray's recent siege on DVD market share, as many of those previously waiting out the format war may now be willing to dip their toes in the Blu waters.
"Before, there was a tendency to play it safe and stick with the standard DVD," Adams said. "But now there's no longer anything to worry about."
Adams also expects to see Blu-ray disc sales continue to boom throughout the rest of calendar year, fueled by increasing penetration of Blu-ray hardware and sales of Sony's Blu-ray-driven PlayStation 3.
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Industry_Forecasts/Industry_Trends/Disc_Sales/Report:_Blu-ray_Disc_Sales_Impacting_DVD_/1602 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Industry_Forecasts/Industry_Trends/Disc_Sales/Report:_Blu-ray_Disc_Sales_Impacting_DVD_/1602)
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The fire sale has begun! Went to my local Best Buy at lunch time and grabbed Pan's Labyrinth and Tremors HD DVDs for $21! Surprisingly, Pan's was actually cheaper at $8!
The local Wal-Marts are marking down their HD DVDs too. Too bad I can't find one with any titles that I want. I was surprised to see the newly released Atonement HD DVD having a price tag of $8, but the rack was empty. I'm waiting for those last two copies of Zodiac get marked down heheh.
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MY TWO CENTS - 3/28/08 - by Digital Bits editor Bill Hunt
(http://img245.imageshack.us/img245/4046/vforvendettabrdsa7.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
The Wachowski Brothers' V for Vendetta has FINALLY been announced for Blu-ray Disc release on 5/20 by the studio (SRP $28.99), presumably to take advantage of all the Speed Racer theatrical hype. We'll post additional details soon. Can The Matrix films be far behind?
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With the end of March exit date for HD DVD just around the corner, I noticed that Amazon no longer sells HD DVD players from stock. Only available from resellers. And the bad thing is the prices are going the wrong way >:( >:( >:( The A35 is currently priced at US$ 439.95, the A30 is US$ 354.99 and the XA2 is US$ 999.99 :o :o :o
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With the end of March exit date for HD DVD just around the corner, I noticed that Amazon no longer sells HD DVD players from stock. Only available from resellers. And the bad thing is the prices are going the wrong way >:( >:( >:( The A35 is currently priced at US$ 439.95, the A30 is US$ 354.99 and the XA2 is US$ 999.99 :o :o :o
Yup I cant believe these prices.. sometimes its also a disadvantage to wait for the best price. It might run out of stock..I'm very happy I got mine at 169 and 149 :D..Never been happier, iba talaga ang standalone versus game machine. Still waiting for a complete lower priced bluray standalone, preferably 199 to 299.
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Count me in....I'm one of DIRTY HARRY fans! :D
$90 lang? instabuy!
price posted is accurate/correct--- $90.95 (yehey!!!!). FYI, now available for pre-order at amazon. ;D
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/dirtyharryultimateBD.jpg)
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Pre-ordered na! :D you can't beat that price!!!!
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And nice packaging too. ;)
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MY TWO CENTS - 3/28/08 - by Digital Bits editor Bill Hunt
(http://img245.imageshack.us/img245/4046/vforvendettabrdsa7.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
The Wachowski Brothers' V for Vendetta has FINALLY been announced for Blu-ray Disc release on 5/20 by the studio (SRP $28.99), presumably to take advantage of all the Speed Racer theatrical hype. We'll post additional details soon. Can The Matrix films be far behind?
ADDITIONAL UPDATE.......
Warner Home Video has announced that they will release the highly anticipated Sci-Fi thriller 'V for Vendetta' for Blu-ray on May 20th. Video will be presented as 2.40:1 1080p VC-1 with 5.1 Dolby Digital audio track (no TrueHD track has been announced at this time, but is expected). While no extras have been announced at this time, you can expect that all the extras from the previous HD DVD release will fit easily on the BD-50.
This film was originally released on HD DVD, but was held back from Blu-ray release due to the lack of picture-in-picture support. Once support for PIP (BonusView) content was made mandatory, fans have been waiting eagerly for Warner to release those titles they initially held back. With this release of 'V for Vendetta', Warner is making good on their promise to bring all of their HD DVD exclusive titles to the Blu-ray format.
Extras on the HD DVD include the In Movie Experience (IME) PIP commentary, four featurettes ("Designing the Near Future", "Remember, Remember: The Guy Fawkes and the Gunpowder Plot", "England Prevails: V for Vendetta and the New Wave of Comics", and "Freedom! Forever!: Making of V for Vendetta"), the Saturday Night Live digital short, Cat Power montage, and theatrical trailers.
PRE-ORDERS NOW AVAILABLE AT AMAZON........ :D
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yup then $19.99 lang, pre-ordered na!
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Band of Brothers coming
http://tvshowsondvd.com/news/Band-Brothers-Blu-ray-Release/9278
Sofia Chang, Senior Vice President of Marketing for HBO Video, "said a Blu-ray version of Band of Brothers is in the works for later this year," according to HMM writer John Latchem. Good news, indeed, for fans of the Emmy-winning production! Stay tuned and we'll keep you updated on this release as more information becomes available.
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With HD DVD out, Blu-ray sales on the rise
Blu-ray Disc sales have seen a sharp spike in recent weeks since the bruising format war against rival HD DVD came to an end in the middle of February.
Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment's "No Country for Old Men" realized 9.8% of its total sales from Blu-ray Disc its first five days in stores, according to an analysis of Nielsen VideoScan First Alert numbers conducted by Home Media Magazine's market research department.
Fox's "Hitman," also released March 11, fared even better, generating 12.6% of its total unit sales from Blu-ray.
"That one hit the sweet spot," said Steve Feldstein, Fox senior vp marketing and corporate communications. "It's a great action title that looks beautiful in high-def -- and it's right in the cross hairs of Blu-ray's target demographic of young adult males."
By comparison, while the format war was raging, unit sales of high-definition discs, either Blu-ray or HD DVD, generally accounted for no more than 2%-3% of a title's sales.
Even in the busy fourth quarter of 2007, sales of high-profile new releases were overwhelmingly tilted toward DVD. Fox's "The Simpsons Movie" generated just 2.8% of its total sales from Blu-ray, while the Blu-ray version of "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End," from Walt Disney Studios, accounted for 3.7% of total sales.
Only after Toshiba threw in the HD DVD towel on Feb. 19 did Blu-ray sales spike. Warner's "Michael Clayton," released that day, generated 5.5% of its total first-week sales from Blu-ray. Sony's "30 Days of Night," released Feb. 26, snagged 8.9% of its total unit sales from the Blu-ray version.
Home entertainment industry analyst Tom Adams of Adams Media Research credits the end of the format war with igniting Blu-ray sales, a trend he sees continuing throughout the year.
"Before, there was a tendency to play it safe and stick with the standard DVD," Adams said. "But now there's no longer anything to worry about."
Feldstein agrees. "Consumers in the high-def marketplace are now purchasing with confidence," he said. "The confusion in the marketplace that you saw when there were two formats continues to work itself out, and once education campaigns begin and the retail presence (of Blu-ray) expands, we should start to see the numbers soar even higher."
Fox market researchers estimate that Blu-ray sales will hit $1 billion in consumer spending in calendar-year 2008, up from an estimated $300 million for combined Blu-ray and HD DVD sales in 2007.
Adams said he expects to see a steady uptick in Blu-ray sales as more players come on the market. He projects that 2008 will end with 2.9 million dedicated Blu-ray players in homes, up from 500,000 at the end of last year, and another 8.4 million PlayStation 3s, with built-in Blu-ray drives, up from 3.2 million at the end of 2007.
Adams said early adopters now buying dedicated Blu-ray players are likely to be rabid consumers of movies, driving up sales, as happened in the early days of DVD. At the same time, the expansion of the PlayStation 3 beyond the hard-core gaming crowd should also lead to an increase in movie sales because the new wave of PS3 buyers are likely "average consumers who consume movies as well as games."
The sales gains that have been achieved so far, Adams said, have come before Hollywood begins an all-out push to drive Blu-ray sales, both through general consumer awareness and education campaigns and a specific effort directed at PS3 owners.
"The promotion to PlayStation 3 homes hasn't really kicked in yet," he said. "And assuming that works, when you're talking 5 million homes, getting them to buy just one more movie a year can make a significant difference in a small market like this."
Adams said studios are keen to derive a greater chunk of their sales from Blu-ray because of the price differential. The average street price for a newly released DVD over its first three months in stores is $20.57, Adams said, while the Blu-ray version goes for $31.31.
"The biggest title of last year, in terms of high-definition disc sales, was 'Transformers,' which derived a little more than 4% of its total unit sales from the Blu-ray Disc version," Adams said. "But in terms of revenue, the percentage was 6% of the total."
http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/content_display/home_entertainment/video/e3if32b8f1fa30457d78668ac733fc7bde1?pn=1
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R.I.P HD DVD
HD DVD Promotions Group Officially "Dissolved" on Mar. 28, 2008
http://www.hddvdprg.com/eng/index.html (http://www.hddvdprg.com/eng/index.html)
Thanks for the memories...
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R.I.P HD DVD
HD DVD Promotions Group Officially "Dissolved" on Mar. 28, 2008
Bye bye HD DVD :'(
Long Live Blu-ray ;D
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My condolences to HD-DVD
You've been a very good friend, you allowed me to experience HD without having to break the bank and you were complete.
I'll miss you
:'(
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'Band of Brothers' for Blu-ray
There's no street date yet, but HBO Home Video is reportedly planning to bring the Emmy-winning mini-series 'Band of Brothers' to Blu-ray sometime this year.
While reporting on the upcoming standard DVD release of the recent 'John Adam's mini-series, Home Media Magazine spoke with a network rep who confirmed that plans for the Tom Hanks-produced 'Brothers' are underway.
Sofia Chang, Senior VP of Marketing for HBO, revealed that "...a Blu-ray version of 'Band of Brothers' is in the works for later this year."
Although HBO has not issued a release date window or any preliminary tech specs (and as always company plans can change), the news bodes well for a Blu-ray 'Band of Brothers,' a title which remains one of the oft-requested titles in HBO's library.
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/HBO/TV_on_High-Def/Disc_Announcements/HBO_Enlists_Band_of_Brothers_for_Blu-ray/1608 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/HBO/TV_on_High-Def/Disc_Announcements/HBO_Enlists_Band_of_Brothers_for_Blu-ray/1608)
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(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/bandofbrothers.jpg)
That's great news that Band of Brothers will finally be released on bluray format. Would be very interesting to see Major Winters and the gang on hi-def !!!!! ;D ;D ;D
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First Look: 'Batman: The Movie' Blu-ray Box Art
Wed Apr 02, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5548/original.jpeg)
The original Batman's high-def debut isn't until July, but we've got an early peek at the Blu-ray box art for the 1966 camp classic.
As previously reported, Fox Home Entertainment has set a July 1 street date for 'Batman: The Movie,' day-and-date with a new standard DVD re-issue.
Tech specs include remastered 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video, with DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround (English and French Dolby Digital 1.0 Mono dubs are also included, along with English, French and Spanish subtitle options). In addition, the Blu-ray will include the film's complete isolated score, also available in DTS-MA 5.1 Surround.
Supplements on the BD-50 dual-layer release are extensive, boasting two audio commentaries (with actors Adam West and Burt Ward, and a second track with screenwriter Lorenzo Semple, Jr.), a 2001 "35th Anniversary Piece" featuring interviews with West and Ward, "The Batmobile Revealed" featurette, "The Batmobile Interactive Tour" 360-degree navigational tour, a "Holy Pop-Up Trivia Track, Batman!" subtitle fact track, no less than six still galleries ("From the Vaults of Adam West," "Interactive Pressbook," "Posters," "Production Stills," "Behind the Scenes," "Premiere"), and both the original and re-release theatrical trailers.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray will be a suite of three newly-produced featurettes: "Batman: A Dynamic Legacy," "Caped Crusaders: A Heroes Tribute" and "Gotham City's Most Wanted."
Finally, Fox has unveiled box art for 'Batman,' which receives a slick, logo-based new design:
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5549/original.jpeg)
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Blu-ray Awareness Up; HD Players Hit 10M
A majority of U.S. households now know what a Blu-ray Disc is, while the number of households with a high-definition disc player has crossed the 10 million threshold, a new study shows.
The study, from media research firm Interpret, finds that 60% of U.S. consumers are aware of Blu-ray Disc, up from zero two years ago, when the format was still in development, according to Jason Kramer, the Santa Monica, Calif.-based firm’s chief strategy officer.
Making that number even more significant is that the survey of consumers, 18-54, was conducted in mid-January, after Warner Home Video threw its support exclusively behind Blu-ray but before Toshiba officially ended the format war by abandoning HD DVD.
Since then, the studios and consumer electronics manufacturers supporting Blu-ray Disc have been ratcheting up their own promotional efforts — and encouraging retailers to devote more floor and shelf space to the next-generation format.
Among men between the ages of 18 and 34, the critical early adopter demographic, Blu-ray awareness is at 76%, the Interpret study found.
Still, Kramer said, Blu-ray supporters “have a lot to do.”
“The format war is over and they’ve taken Blu-ray from zero to majority awareness, but it doesn’t get easier from here, unfortunately,” he said.
Kramer sees the biggest impediment to Blu-ray’s mass-market success as the fact that the format requires not just a new player, but also a new television. There are now 44.4 million HDTV households in the United States, Interpret research shows, or 39% of all 113.9 million TV households. That’s a significantly smaller pool than the one DVD faced when it was launched 11 years ago.
http://www.homemediamagazine.com/news/html/breaking_article.cfm?sec_id=2&&article_ID=12438
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THIS IS A MAJOR BD MILESTONE...
Hannah Montana Goes 3-D with 'Best of Both Worlds Concert Tour' Blu-ray
Thu Apr 03, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5554/original.jpeg)
In a high-def first, Disney's August Blu-ray release of 'Hannah Montana and Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds Concert Tour' will feature 2-D and 3-D viewing modes.
An unstoppable phenomenon, the fictional Hannah Montana broke box office records this past January with 'Best of Both Worlds,' which saw hordes of teenage girls flooding theaters to the tune of over $40 million in receipts (unheard of for a live concert film).
Disney has set an August 19 street date for the Blu-ray version, which will trail a CD/DVD version of 'Best of both Worlds' (due to hit stores next week) by several months.
Extras on the release include "The Ultimate Personal Tour" documentary (spend a day with Miley Cyrus and The Jonas Brothers as they prepare for the concert), plus two bonus tracks ("Good And Broken" by Miley Cyrus, and the ABBA classic "SOS" by the Jonas Brothers).
Tech specs reveal Disney's plans to present a first-ever 3-D Viewing Mode on the disc, along with a 2-D version as well, both in 1080p video. Audio boasts uncompressed PCM 7.1 Surround audio.
Disney has set a suggested list price of $35.98 for the Blu-ray.
You'll find preliminary specs for 'Hannah Montana and Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds Concert Tour' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under August 19.
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Dark City Re-release May Be Coming to Blu-ray
The folks over at Bloody-Disgusting.com recently chatted with writer/director David Goyer regarding the rumor of a re-release for his film 'Dark City'. Goyer revealed that his critically acclaimed film would be receiving a re-release soon, which would include new special effects work and an overall longer cut that required the film to be re-scored.
More importantly, Goyer revealed that the new version of the film would not only see a limited theatrical run, but also most likely a Blu-ray release. He also participated in an hour-long making-of featurette, which will include length interviews with the cast and crew.
'Dark City' is one of the highest praised sci-fi films ever. The initial DVD release featured audio commentary by legendary film critic Roger Ebert and the film is often credited for providing stylistic direct to many future films, including 'The Matrix'.
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=1178
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Hope it will come true as I love Dark City! :)
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MEN IN BLACK
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring the Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones film 'Men in Black' to Blu-ray on June 17th.
While no specs have been announced at this time, expect a 1080p AVC video presentation along with Dolby TrueHD audio track. Exclusive to the Blu-ray release will be a BD-Live trivia game where up to eight people can connect online to test their 'Men in Black' knowledge. (BLURAY.COM)
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guys, amazon is offering its buy 2 get 1 promo (again) for BD: ;D ;D ;D
"Amazon is once again offering a Blu-ray B2G1 (Buy Two Blu-ray Discs, Get One Free) deal. This time the sale includes a total of 58 titles from Sony, Warner, New Line, Lionsgate and Starz.
Titles available in the promotion include 300, Blade Runner, Black Hawk Down, Crank, The Departed, The Fifth Element, Pan's Labyrinth, Troy: Director's Cut, War and many more. According to Amazon the offer is valid through April 18, 2008, but supplies for certain titles might be limited so make sure to order the titles you want before they run out." (from bluray.com)
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thanks for the heads-up JAQY888. There's likewise an HD-DVD "up to 57% off" deal happenin' @ Amazon.
Just click on the link below:
HD-DVD Price Off (http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html/ref=amb_link_6366582_1?ie=UTF8&plgroup=1&docId=1000200241&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=1S7SE4V2412XVWH397MS&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=379159001&pf_rd_i=390987011)
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For the Bluray B2G1 Deal mentioned above, attached the link below:
BD DEAL (http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html/ref=amb_link_6671762_3?ie=UTF8&docId=1000214241&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=right-blog-0&pf_rd_r=1JXMG7K1BTKSYJ9Q6JJQ&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=382777401&pf_rd_i=193640011)
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Amazon Offering $50 Gift Certificate to HD DVD Customers
In a move reminiscent of last month's Best Buy offer, Amazon has begun contacting customers who qualify for a $50 gift certificate for purchasing HD DVD players.
In a company email that has begun going out to qualifying customers, the company states that players purchased before February 23, 2008, the same date specified in the Best Buy offer, qualify for the gift certificate, which can be used for new purchases on the site.
The email states, "New technologies don't always work out as planned. We at Amazon.com value our customer relationships more than anything and would like to support customers who purchased these players by offering a credit good for $50." The announcement does list some restrictions for the certificate's use.
Unlike the Best Buy offer, the company does not mention trade-in options for HD DVD media, but does state that the "Amazon.com Marketplace is available to sell items you might not want anymore as you upgrade to new ones." Perhaps suggesting that customer's might want to use their certificates to bring down the price of a shiny new Blu-ray player.
The program will run through April 9, 2009, so customers have plenty of time to take advantage of the offer.
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Future Disney/Pixar Animation Projects Announced
Walt Disney Pictures and Pixar Animation Studios have announced the future animation line-up for the two studios (Pixar is now wholly owned by Disney). While not all the announced films are are surprises - the Summer release of 'Wall-E' and the upcoming 3-D releases of the popular 'Toy Story' films - we do get a peek at some great previously unannounced films.
2008
Wall*E (Pixar)
Bolt (Disney Animation)
Tinker Bell (DisneyToon)
2009
Up (Pixar)
Toy Story 3-D (Pixar)
The Princess and the Frog (Disney Animation)
Tinker Bell North of Neverland (DisneyToon)
2010
Toy Story 2 3-D (Pixar)
Toy Story 3 3-D (Pixar)
Rapunzel (Disney Animation)
Tinker Bell A Midsummer Storm (DisneyToon)
2011
Newt (Pixar)
The Bear and the Bow (Pixar)
Tinker Bell A Winter Story (DisneyToon)
2012
Cars 2 (Pixar)
King of Elves (Disney Animation)
Why is this on Blu-ray.com? Well, it turns out that the Tinker Bell films have all been confirmed for Blu-ray release. Sure, in actuality all of these films will be Blu-ray as well, but as of today, only the Tinker Bell films have been confirmed.
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=1202
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(http://img166.imageshack.us/img166/390/1394578h3553acei4.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
Scheduled for Release on 5-20-2008 ;D ;D ;D
Playboy magazine says...
"Actiongirls.com is the Rolls-Royce of naked-girls-with-guns websites".
"We don't pretend to have award winning acting or a plot twister. We cut to the caveman senses to give you simple instinctual pleasures."
-Scotty JX, Director
Watch Scotty JX throw piles of money away to keep you entertained.
Warning: You might have fun watching this!Visited over 1 million times a day, Actiongirls.com is an internet cult phenomena
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Wow lots of action I'm sure.... :P
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:o :o :o Woh!!!!! :o :o :o
Now that's the kind of "action" worth waiting for in hi-def. ;D ;D ;D
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Blu-ray Players Connect to iPhone with BD Touch :D :D :D
Blu-ray Disc NetBlender has announced that they have developed software that connects BD-Live Blu-ray players (such as the Sony PlayStation 3) to Apple's iPhone and iPod Touch. The software, which has been named "BD Touch", makes use of the network connections of both devices, and allows them to share data.
Examples of how this technology could possible be implemented are:
* Pushing digital copies of movies to an iPhone from the Blu-ray disc menu.
* Automatically cataloguing a viewer's Blu-ray disc collection and providing movie suggestions
* Displaying trivia and extra information about a movie in sync with the movie's playback
* Turning existing Blu-ray discs into games that use the iPhone as the game controller
John Harrington, NetBlender CEO commented, "Having spent the past decade building interactive video products we are thrilled to bring together two of the most interactive consumer products ever created with BD Touch. We began R&D on integrating the two devices right after I experienced the iPhone Multi-Touch interface for the first time."
NetBlender has released a SDK for BD Touch, which includes the complete specification for sending and receiving data between a BD Touch compatible Blu-Ray disc and an iPhone or iPod Touch. This was done to hope spur creativity among developers, and encourage use of the connection software. (bluray.com)
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'Natural Born Killers' Coming to Blu-ray
Mon Apr 14, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5634/original.jpeg)
Warner has announced the latest addition to its "book"-style catalog releases, bringing Oliver Stone's 'Natural Born Killers' to Blu-ray this June.
Hailed and scorned in equal measure -- and often called one of the most controversial films ever made -- Stone's satire on crime, infamy, and tabloid culture will make its Blu-ray debut on June 10.
Presented in its 118-minute theatrical cut form only (not the unrated version with four minutes of censored footage that was previously released on DVD), tech specs include 1080p/VC-1 video (1.85:1) and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround, along with English, French, and Spanish Dolby Digital and subtitle options.
Among the extras ported over from the studio's previous DVD edition are audio commentary by Stone, a Charlie Rose Show interview with the director, deleted scenes, and the theatrical trailer.
Housed in Warner's "book"-style packaging, also included is a 42-page booklet with rare production photos, press materials, and an original essay by Stone about the film and its controversies.
Warner has set a suggested list price of $28.95 for the Blu-ray.
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NOW AVAILABLE!!!
PS3 Update v2.3 released, Adds DTS-HD Master Audio (Updated)
Tue Apr 15, 2008 at 11:25 AM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5644/original.jpeg)
Sony launched Firmware Update v2.30 for the Playstation 3 today, bringing with it a number of updates to the Playstation Store, as well as DTS-HD Master Audio.
Editor's Note - Sony has now updated the link to the online firmware update for downloading.
The eagerly anticipated update brings with it a redesign of the PS3's online store, with changes to its navigability and content offerings, as well as previews of add-ons, games, and videos.
As we've previously reported, this latest PS3 update also gives owners the ability to play back audio that is bit-for-bit identical to the studio master at super high variable bit rates. DTS-HD Master Audio has been included in several stand-alone Blu-ray players, but its availability on the PS3 now brings full spectrum premium audio to an even larger audience.
The firmware update can now be installed through your system's online interface, or via direct download below for US:
http://www.us.playstation.com/PS3/About/SystemUpdate (http://www.us.playstation.com/PS3/About/SystemUpdate)
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Here's the link to the Asian PS 2.3 download:
http://asia.playstation.com/hk/ps3/eng/ps3_softupdate.htm (http://asia.playstation.com/hk/ps3/eng/ps3_softupdate.htm)
(http://asia.playstation.com/hk/ps3/eng/images/softupdate230_screen1.jpg)
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PIONEER BDP-LX71 Blu-ray player:
Pioneer Electronics has announced that they will release their BDP-LX71 Blu-ray player for the European market this summer to replace the existing BDP-LX70. The BonusView (Profile v1.1) player will feature the latest technological advancements to improve both performance and stability over the existing model.
On the video front, the player will include support for 24p output, 12-bit deep color support, a 297MHz 12-bit video encoder, and an improved graphical interface. Audio has been upgraded to support both bitstreaming and decoding of all audio formats to include Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio (to be added via firmware after launch). DACs will be supplied from Wolfson and there will 7.1 analog outs.
The player has been optimized to work flawlessly with the Pioneer Kuro line of plasma TVs, and have even matched interfaces. Of course, the player will also work great with any other video set-up.
No word on when Pioneer will be releasing a BD-Live player, but the inclusion of a Ethernet port on all their players should make even the LX71 an easy upgrade. (bluray.com)
At-a-glance specifications
BonusView (a.k.a. profile 1.1): Yes
HDMI 1.3a: Yes, 12-bit Deep Colour
Advanced Audio Bitstream: Yes, All Formats
Advanced Audio Decoding: Dolby Digital Plus/Dolby True HD/DTS-HD/DTS HD Master
Wolfson Professional Audio DACs: Yes x 4
High Quality Video Encoder: 297 Mhz 12-Bit
Jitter-free HDMI CD Audio with PQLS: Yes
Video Adjust fine-tuning options: Yes
7.1 Channel Analogue Output: Yes
Gold Plated Terminals: Yes
Aluminium Front Panel: Yes
Capacitance Touch Key Buttons: Yes
New Graphic User Interface: Yes
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Video: Warner Previews Features on 'Batman: Gotham Knight' Blu-ray
Wed Apr 16, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5648/original.jpeg)
Warner has released an online promo for the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'Batman: Gotham Knight,' providing a first glimpse at the disc's extensive bonus features.
As first announced this past February, Warner Home Video will debut the direct-to-video title on Blu-ray July 8 (day-and-date with the standard DVD).
A three-minute video clip posted on the title's official website give a first peek at the highly-anticipated Blu-ray release, previewing comments from the film's cast and crew regarding the film's inspiration, revealing some of the disc's supplemental features, and showcasing further behind-the-scenes footage.
The clip is available to watch now (via streaming video) at the Batman: Gotham Knight official website.
As previously announced, extras on the 'Gotham Knight' Blu-ray are set to include the documentary "A Mirror for the Bat: The Evil Denizens of Gotham City," the "Batman and Me a Devotion of Destiny: The Bob Kane Story" featurette, a pair of bonus episodes from 'Batman: The Animated Series' (personally selected by 'Gotham Knight' director Bruce Timm), and a special sneak peek at the upcoming DC Comics/Warner Premiere animated movie, 'Wonder Woman.'
Warner has not yet announced tech specs for 'Gotham Knight,' but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.98.
Source: HighDef Digest
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'10,000 B.C.' Headed to Blu-ray this June
Wed Apr 16, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5650/original.jpeg)
Warner has announced a June Blu-ray debut for the sci-fi action hit '10,000 B.C. .'
Despite taking a drubbing from critics, the Roland Emmerich-directed effects epic scored over $250 million at the worldwide box office since it opened in theaters this past Winter. Warner has set a June 24 debut for the Blu-ray, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Although the full media release is not due for several days, specs confirmed by the studio thus far include 1080p/VC-1 video, and a Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround track.
Extras shared between both versions are a suite of deleted scenes, an alternate ending, and theatrical trailers.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray are two making-of featurettes, "A Wild and Wooly Ride" and "Inspiring an Epic."
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $35.99.
Source: HighDef Digest
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Universal joining Blu-ray bandwagon in the summer
(http://www.engadgethd.com/media/2008/04/universal_logo_sm_blu_041708.jpg)
LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - Universal Studios, once Hollywood's top backer of the doomed HD DVD video format, will soon release all its new videos on the victorious Blu-ray rival at the same time as its standard DVDs.
The studio is set to announce Thursday that the program will kick off in the summer with the recent box office flop "Doomsday."
Universal's Blu-ray strategy includes plans to release about 40 titles in the second half of the year.
Among them are the studio's five big feature films of the summer, including "The Incredible Hulk," with Edward Norton, William Hurt and Liv Tyler; "Wanted," an action thriller starring James McAvoy and Angelina Jolie; "Hellboy II: The Golden Army"; "Mamma Mia," the adaptation of the musical starring Meryl Streep; and the sequel "The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor," with Brendan Fraser and Jet Li.
Universal officially will enter the Blu-ray market July 22 with a trio of films from its "Mummy" action-adventure franchise: "The Mummy" and "The Mummy Returns," both starring Fraser, and the spinoff "The Scorpion King," with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson.
Also planned for domestic Blu-ray before the year is up are the catalog titles "American Gangster," "Knocked Up," "The 40-Year-Old Virgin," "Miami Vice," "End of Days," "U-571" and "Land of the Dead," among others.
Universal had been HD DVD's biggest studio backer ever since the next-generation optical disc format came to market in April 2006. But when Toshiba pulled the plug on the format in February, the studio wasted no time switching its allegiance to Sony's Blu-ray.
http://www.reuters.com/article/technologyNews/idUSN1740482320080417?feedType=RSS&feedName=technologyNews (http://www.reuters.com/article/technologyNews/idUSN1740482320080417?feedType=RSS&feedName=technologyNews)
http://www.engadget.com/2008/04/17/universals-blu-ray-release-plans-uncovered-details-later-today/ (http://www.engadget.com/2008/04/17/universals-blu-ray-release-plans-uncovered-details-later-today/)
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Heroes: Seasons One and Two Soaring to Blu-ray
Universal Studios Home Entertainment has announced they will release 'Heroes: Season One' and 'Heroes: Season Two' for Blu-ray on August 26th. The first season was released on DVD and HD DVD last August, and the second season will be released on Blu-ray day-and-date with the DVD release. No specs or extras have been announced at this time.
The 'Heroes: Season Two' release will be the first global release on Blu-ray for Universal, indicating that it will be available in all territories on August 26th. This also places the previous seasons in the hands of fans a few days before the proposed start of the third season of the popular television series.
No word on whether 'Heroes: Season One' will be a port of the previous HD DVD release, or if it will be optimized for Blu-ray. We'll post more details on all the upcoming Universal titles when they come available.
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Warner Reveals Specs, Box Art for 'Gotham Knight' Blu-ray
Fri Apr 18, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
Warner has released specs and box art for 'Batman: Gotham Knight,' which will debut direct-to-Blu-ray this July with a host of bonus features.
As previously reported, Warner and DC Universe announced a July 8 street date for the animated film (day-and-date with the standard DVD), though without final specs and box art.
The full press details are now in, with the Blu-ray set to include 1080p/VC-1 video (1.85:1), with Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround audio in English and Japanese, plus Spanish and German Dolby Digital 2.0 Surround options. (Subtitles in all four languages are also included).
Extras shared between both the Blu-ray and DVD include the documentary "A Mirror for the Bat: The Evil Denizens of Gotham City," the "Batman and Me: The Bob Kane Story" featurette, a pair of bonus episodes from 'Batman: The Animated Series' (personally selected by 'Gotham Knight' director Bruce Timm), and a special sneak peek at the upcoming DC Comics/Warner Premiere animated movie, 'Wonder Woman.'
Finally, Warner has unveiled a peek at the Blu-ray cover for 'Gotham Knight':
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5669/original.jpeg)
As previously announced, Warner has set the suggested retail price at $35.98 for the Blu-ray.
Source: HDD
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First Look: 'Natural Born Killers' Blu-ray Box Art
Fri Apr 18, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5661/original.jpeg)
The Blu-ray won't arrive until early June, but we've got an early peek at the "book" box art for Oliver Stone's 'Natural Born Killers.'
As we've previously reported, Warner has set a June 10 Blu-ray bow for the highly-controversial look at violence and tabloid culture, which will hit high-def in its 118-minute theatrical form.
Announced tech specs include 1080p/VC-1 video (1.85:1) and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround, along with English, French, and Spanish Dolby Digital and subtitle options.
Among the extras ported over from the studio's previous DVD edition are audio commentary by Stone, a Charlie Rose Show interview with the director, deleted scenes, and the theatrical trailer.
Housed in Warner's "book"-style packaging, also included is a 42-page booklet with rare production photos, press materials, and an original essay by Stone about the film and its controversies.
Finally, the studio has unveiled a peek at the packaging for 'Natural Born Killers':
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5662/original.jpeg)
As previously announced, Warner has set a suggested list price of $28.95 for the Blu-ray.
Source: HDD
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MY TWO CENTS - 4/18/08 - by Digital Bits editor Bill Hunt
(http://img297.imageshack.us/img297/9092/casper33767a7aa3.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
Sony has confirmed to Home Media that both Starship Troopers and the new direct-to-video sequel, Starship Troopers: Marauder will arrive on Blu-ray Disc on 7/29. The DVD version of Marauder will street that day as well. DO YOU WANT TO KNOW MORE!? Both Blu-ray releases will include pop-up video segments during the film with graphics and behind-the-scenes information. The Starship Troopers Blu-ray will also include an interactive Recruitment Test, as well as all of the bonus material from the original DVD release (deleted scenes, featurettes, audio commentary, a documentary, episodes of the animated Roughnecks: The Starship Trooper Chronicles and more). Marauder will include 2 featurettes and 2 commentaries on both formats.
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Blu-ray Sales Up 351%
Posted April 18, 2008 01:34 PM by Josh
One of the reasons movie studios are hoping consumers adopt Blu-ray is in order to offset continually declining DVD sales. Since they plateaued three years ago, DVD sales have slowly decreased. The first quarter of this year was no different, showing an overall drop in DVD sales of 1.2% from Q1 2007. However, Blu-ray sales saved the day - just as studios have hoped they would - and when combined with DVD sales resulted in an overall increase in sales of 1% over last year.
Steve Beeks, president and co-COO of Lionsgate commented, "Blu-ray had its second-best week ever in the seven days ending March 23, and we anticipate Blu-ray sales of $800 million to $1billion-plus for all of 2008, up dramatically from approximately $300 million last year."
With the format war now over, studios are looking forward to the rest of the year as more and more consumers adopt the high definition format.
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=1222
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Band of Brothers HD DVD (Japan Edition) is now a collector's item. I hope they do release the BD version soon...
(http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/1816/scr43a94arn5an4.jpg)
(http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/1115/scr42d5ddje6lc4.jpg)
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Sony Targets July Bow for 'In the Line of Fire' Blu-ray
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/INTHELINEOFFIRE.jpg)
Sony has announced an early-July debut for the Clint Eastwood thriller 'In the Line of Fire.'
Also starring John Malkovich and Rene Russo, and directed by Wolfgang Petersen, the 1993 box office smash will arrive on Blu-ray July 1.
Full tech specs have not yet been released, but early details include 1080p video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Supplements are also not yet known.
Sony has set a suggested list price of $28.95 for the Blu-ray. (BLURAY.COM)
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Band of Brothers HD DVD (Japan Edition) is now a collector's item. I hope they do release the BD version soon...
Blu-ray version is slated for end of this year. ;D
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War Classics on Blu-ray from Fox/MGM
20th Century Fox Fox Home Entertainment and MGM Home Entertainment have announced five war film classics coming to Blu-ray on June 3rd. MGM will bring 'Battle of Britain' and 'A Bridge Too Far', while 'The Longest Day', 'Patton', and 'The Sand Pebbles' will come from Fox. Video for titles will be presented in widescreen and accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
'The Longest Day' will include historical commentary with Mary Corey, film commentary with Ken Annakin, four featurettes ("A Day to Remember", "Longest Day: A Salute to Courage", "Backstory - The Longest Day", and "D-Day Revisited"), stills gallery, and original trailer.
The Blu-ray release of 'Patton' will include introduction and commentary by writer Francis Ford Coppola, two featurettes ("History Through the Lens: 'Patton: A Rebel Revisited'" and "Patton's Ghost Corps"), the documentary "The Making of Patton", production stills gallery with complete musical score by Jerry Goldsmith, a behind-the-scenes gallery with an audio essay on Patton, and the original trailer.
'The Sand Pebbles' will include commentary by Robert Wise, Candice Bergen, Mako and Richard Crenna, isolated score track with commentary by music producer Nick Redman, film music historian Jon Burnlingame and screen writer & film historian Lem Dobbs, trivia track, 13 deleted "Road Show" scenes, original trailer, and two radio documentaries ("Changsha Bund and the Streets of Taipei" and "A Ship Called San Pablo") narrated by Richard Attenborough. Additionally, the release will have six featurettes, including "The Making of Sand Pebbles", "Steve McQueen Remembered", "Bob Wise in Command", "China 1926", "A Ship Called San Pablo", and "The Secret of the San Pablo".
No extras have been announced for 'Battle of Britain' or 'A Bridge Too Far' at this time. (bluray.com)
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War Classics on Blu-ray from Fox/MGM
20th Century Fox Fox Home Entertainment and MGM Home Entertainment have announced five war film classics coming to Blu-ray on June 3rd. MGM will bring 'Battle of Britain' and 'A Bridge Too Far', while 'The Longest Day', 'Patton', and 'The Sand Pebbles' will come from Fox. Video for titles will be presented in widescreen and accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
'The Longest Day' will include historical commentary with Mary Corey, film commentary with Ken Annakin, four featurettes ("A Day to Remember", "Longest Day: A Salute to Courage", "Backstory - The Longest Day", and "D-Day Revisited"), stills gallery, and original trailer.
The Blu-ray release of 'Patton' will include introduction and commentary by writer Francis Ford Coppola, two featurettes ("History Through the Lens: 'Patton: A Rebel Revisited'" and "Patton's Ghost Corps"), the documentary "The Making of Patton", production stills gallery with complete musical score by Jerry Goldsmith, a behind-the-scenes gallery with an audio essay on Patton, and the original trailer.
'The Sand Pebbles' will include commentary by Robert Wise, Candice Bergen, Mako and Richard Crenna, isolated score track with commentary by music producer Nick Redman, film music historian Jon Burnlingame and screen writer & film historian Lem Dobbs, trivia track, 13 deleted "Road Show" scenes, original trailer, and two radio documentaries ("Changsha Bund and the Streets of Taipei" and "A Ship Called San Pablo") narrated by Richard Attenborough. Additionally, the release will have six featurettes, including "The Making of Sand Pebbles", "Steve McQueen Remembered", "Bob Wise in Command", "China 1926", "A Ship Called San Pablo", and "The Secret of the San Pablo".
No extras have been announced for 'Battle of Britain' or 'A Bridge Too Far' at this time. (bluray.com)
I am just wondering how they can provide a bigger sound, 5.1 DTS-HD at that, for these war classics when the original format was done analog.
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They probably had it remastered.
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Samsung BD-P1500 Out in June
Samsung has announced that they will release their upcoming Blu-ray player, the Samsung BD-P1500, this June. The player, which will be a BonusView (Profile v1.1) player with a future upgrade to BD-Live (Profile v2.0), is the fourth generation Blu-ray player from the longtime Blu-ray supporter. It will be able to output 1080p24 video and decode Dolby TrueHD audio (with DTS-HD HR support to be added at a later date).
The inclusion of an Ethernet and USB port will allow the player to easily be upgraded to a BD-Live player. Price has yet to be announced for the player, but previous material has suggested an MSRP of $399. (bluray.com)
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/SAMSUNGBDPLAYER.jpg)
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War Classics on Blu-ray from Fox/MGM
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/longestday.jpg) (http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/sandpebbles.jpg)
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/bridgetoofar.jpg)(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/patton.jpg)
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/BATTLEOFBRITAIN.jpg)
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'Fool's Gold' Blu-ray Specs, Box Art Revealed
Fri Apr 25, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5567/original.jpeg)
Warner has dug up specs and box art for the June Blu-ray release of 'Fool's Gold,' though fans hoping for a bounty of extras may be in for a disappointment.
As previously reported, the studio announced a June 17th Blu-ray arrival (day-and-date with the DVD) for the Matthew McConaughay-Kate Hudson romantic comedy, but specs were scarce.
The studio has now issued the full announcement for 'Fool's Gold,' which will sport 1080p/VC-1 video and English, French and Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround and subtitle tracks only (no high-res audio has been announced).
Extras shared between both the Blu-ray and DVD are quite slim, however, with only a single "Flirting With Adventure: The McConaughey-Hudson Chemistry" featurette, and gag reel.
Finally, Warner has unveiled a high-res peek at the Blu-ray cover for 'Fool's Gold':
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5721/original.jpeg)
As previously announced, Warner has set the suggested retail price at $35.99 for the Blu-ray.
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Lost, Grey's Anatomy Head to Blu-ray
Walt Disney Pictures Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment has revealed that they plan to bring the fourth seasons of both "Lost" and "Grey's Anatomy" to Blu-ray this year. First up with be 'Grey's Anatomy: The Complete Fourth Season—Expanded', which is set to debut on September 9th, day-and-date with the DVD release. It will feature not only a "beefed up" version of the "Forever Young" episode, but also audio commentary from executive producer/director Rob Corn.
Following three months later on December 9th will be 'Lost: The Complete Fourth Season—The Expanded Experience' which will also debut on the same day as the DVD. This set will include bonus featurettes and hints to unlock the plot of the series.
Lori MacPherson, Disney's general manager of North America commented, "Grey's and Lost are our biggest TV on DVD sellers year over year. They have a broad audience base for Blu-ray. It's still too early to take all our shows and put them on Blu-ray, but we are proceeding slowly and steadily." (bluray.com)
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Completely OT but still great news!
MY TWO CENTS - 4/25/08 - by Digital Bits editor Bill Hunt
Finally today, we've saved the best for last: It's now official. Per Variety, Guillermo del Toro ;D ;D ;D has signed on the dotted line to direct not one but TWO movies based on The Hobbit. Peter Jackson, Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens will write and produce, and WETA will do the creature and effects work. The films are expected to hit theaters in 2011 and 2012, around which time you can also reasonably expect The Lord of the Rings to arrive on Blu-ray Disc in some ultimate version. And if all that doesn't warm your little geek hearts, we don't know what will. SMAUG!!
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Loved the book. Hope the movie will be good too ::)
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MY TWO CENTS - 4/28/08 - by Digital Bits editor Bill Hunt
>:( >:( >:(
And here's one more thing that's going to drive some of you crazy: We've learned that Best Buy is going to have an exclusive bonus disc with New Line's The Golden Compass: 2-Disc Platinum Edition on Tuesday, featuring "over 45 minutes worth of extra footage." In other words, it would seem, deleted scenes. The deleted scenes that aren't yet being restored to the movie itself... and which aren't included on the Blu-ray Disc version. Which means, there's going to be a double-dip one of these days (probably when the sequels show up in theatres, which we hear WILL happen because Compass made so much money internationally, even though it hasn't yet been officially announced). What's more, to our knowledge, the bonus disc is only available with the DVD version. In other words, if you're a Blu-ray fan... yes, you ARE getting screwed. You know, we don't mind retailer exclusives like special packaging or swag items, but when ACTUAL CONTENT is only available at a particular retailer - especially something this interesting to fans of the film - that just sucks. Period. Whoever made this decision at New Line or Warner should know better.
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Yeah..exclusive packaging is understandable but exclusive contents?? What a shame. :(
Guess, I will boycot it for the time being. ::)
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New Line Announces 'Dark City' Director's Cut Blu-ray
Confirming the rumors, New Line has announced a late-July Blu-ray debut for the cult classic 'Dark City,' which will hit high-def in a brand-new "Director's Cut."
Speculation on a possible 'Dark City' high-def release had the web buzzing last month, after director Alex Proyas dropped hints that New Line was retooling the film for a new video release, though the studio remained mum on any plans.
Now New Line has confirmed that the 'Dark City: Director's Cut' will debut on Blu-ray July 29, day-and-date with a new standard DVD re-issue.
highdefdigest.com
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Vantage Point Announced for Blu-ray
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring the thriller 'Vantage Point' to Blu-ray on July 1st, day-and-date with the DVD release. Video will be presented in 2.40:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack. Extras include audio commentary with the director, the featurettes "Coordinating Chaos" and "Writing the Assasination of a President", interviews with the cast and crew, outtakes, and a conversation with Eduardo Noriega.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray release will be a "Vantage View: GPS Tracker" BD-J extra. This feature will allow the viewer to track the movement of each of the characters in a picture-in-picture window throughout the entire feature.(bluray.com)
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New Line Announces 'Dark City' Director's Cut Blu-ray
Confirming the rumors, New Line has announced a late-July Blu-ray debut for the cult classic 'Dark City,' which will hit high-def in a brand-new "Director's Cut."
Speculation on a possible 'Dark City' high-def release had the web buzzing last month, after director Alex Proyas dropped hints that New Line was retooling the film for a new video release, though the studio remained mum on any plans.
Now New Line has confirmed that the 'Dark City: Director's Cut' will debut on Blu-ray July 29, day-and-date with a new standard DVD re-issue.
highdefdigest.com
MY TWO CENTS - 4/28/08 - by Digital Bits editor Bill Hunt
(http://img81.imageshack.us/img81/7716/darkcitydcbrd571f96kw9.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
We've got some pretty exciting release news for you today (at least we think so): New Line (via Warner) is releasing a Dark City: Director's Cut on DVD and Blu-ray Disc on 7/29 (SRP $19.97 and $34.99). According to the studio's press information, both discs will feature "enhanced picture and sound, never-before-seen footage and three commentary tracks that take you deeper than ever before into the world of one of sci-fis most exciting and revered tales." The Blu-ray will be a BD-50 disc, but we don't know what the audio format will be yet. Director Alex Proyas' new cut of the film runs 111 minutes (the original version was 96 minutes). Dark City is a GREAT little sci-fi flick, so this is pretty cool news in our book. You'll find the cover art for BOTH versions below.
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MY TWO CENTS - 4/28/08 - by Digital Bits editor Bill Hunt
>:( >:( >:(
And here's one more thing that's going to drive some of you crazy: We've learned that Best Buy is going to have an exclusive bonus disc with New Line's The Golden Compass: 2-Disc Platinum Edition on Tuesday, featuring "over 45 minutes worth of extra footage." In other words, it would seem, deleted scenes. The deleted scenes that aren't yet being restored to the movie itself... and which aren't included on the Blu-ray Disc version. Which means, there's going to be a double-dip one of these days (probably when the sequels show up in theatres, which we hear WILL happen because Compass made so much money internationally, even though it hasn't yet been officially announced). What's more, to our knowledge, the bonus disc is only available with the DVD version. In other words, if you're a Blu-ray fan... yes, you ARE getting screwed. You know, we don't mind retailer exclusives like special packaging or swag items, but when ACTUAL CONTENT is only available at a particular retailer - especially something this interesting to fans of the film - that just sucks. Period. Whoever made this decision at New Line or Warner should know better.
Editor's Note: We've heard back from sources that this material is not actual deleted scenes, but some kind of additional behind-the-scenes material instead. So that's good. Unfortunately, it's still only available on DVD. :P :P :P
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Paramount Reveals Initial Blu-ray Titles ;D ;D ;D
Paramount Home Entertainment has unveiled a slate of catalog and recent hit titles to begin release starting May 20th. "We will have a strong slate of titles for Blu-ray release throughout the year, worldwide, and are enthusiastic about expanding the format's offerings for a broad consumer audience while delivering an experience that goes beyond what viewers love about DVD," said Paramount Home Entertainment President Kelley Avery.
Included among this first wave of titles is the Academy Award-winning 'There Will Be Blood,' as well as 'Cloverfield', J.J. Abrams' unusual take on the "creature feature." The first Blu-ray title to be released day-and-date with the DVD release will be 'The Spiderwick Chronicles', which Paramount will release June 24th. (bluray.com)
May 20th:
Bee Movie
Face/Off
Next
June 3rd:
Cloverfield
There Will Be Blood
June 24th:
The Spiderwick Chronicles
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Breaking: Paramount Unveils Blu-ray Launch Plans
The wait is over: Paramount has officially confirmed the details of its Blu-ray re-entry plans, with its first titles due for release late next month.
Announced late today via press release (which can be read in full here), the studio will kick off their Blu-ray support on May 20, with the release of 'Face/Off,' 'Next,' and 'Bee Movie.'
Paramount will follow that up on June 3 with the release of 'Cloverfield' and 'There Will Be Blood. Then on June 24 we'll see the debut of 'The Spiderwick Chronicles,' which will launch day-and-date with the standard DVD.
"Paramount Home Entertainment continues to focus on the consumer and to explore avenues that allow fans to get more out of their home entertainment experience," said Kelley Avery, President of Worldwide Home Entertainment, Paramount Pictures. "We will have a strong slate of titles for Blu-ray release throughout the year worldwide and are enthusiastic about expanding the format's offerings for a broad consumer audience while delivering an experience that goes beyond what viewers love about DVD."
Full tech specs are not yet in for the newly-announced titles, though preliminary details in the press release indicate that the supplemental content on the Blu-ray versions will mirror the previously-released standard DVD and HD DVD versions.
Paramount's announcement follows weeks of anticipation among early adopters. The studio initially launched a format-agnostic approach to the format war in 2006, only to defect to HD DVD late last year in a widely publicized announcement. Following Toshiba's war-ending abandonment of the HD DVD format earlier this year, Paramount again switched allegiance to Blu-ray, though the studio had yet to issue details of its initial release plans.
bluray.highdefdigest.com (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Paramount/Disc_Announcements/Breaking:_Paramount_Unveils_Blu-ray_Launch_Plans/1696)
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Finally, Im buying bee movie for sure. Love that movie
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Paramount Further Details Their Blu-ray Plans
Paramount Home Entertainment today revealed further details about their upcoming Blu-ray plans and in addition to releasing 'Bee Movie', 'Face/Off' and 'Next' on May 20th, they will also be releasing 'Blades of Glory', a quirky comedy about the competetive world of ice skating starring Will Ferrell and Jon Heder.
While specs and other details about the recently announced titles still are quite scarce, we have been able to confirm that 'Bee Movie', 'Cloverfield', 'There Will Be Blood' and 'The Spiderwick Chronicles' will feature 5.1 Dolby TrueHD audio.
In addition, Paramount will be re-introducing some of their previously discontinued Blu-ray titles on the format again. The following is the complete line-up of titles set to be introduced by Paramount in the coming months: (bluray.com).
May 20th:
# Aeon Flux
# Babel
# Bee Movie
# Black Snake Moan
# Blades of Glory
# Coming to America
# Disturbia
# Dreamgirls
# Face/Off: Special Collector's Edition
# Four Brothers
# The Italian Job
# Next
# Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow
# Sleepy Hollow
# Trading Places
# The Untouchables: Special Collector's Edition
# The Warriors: Ultimate Director's Cut
# U2: Rattle and Hum
# We Were Soldiers
# World Trade Center
June 3rd:
# Cloverfield
# There Will Be Blood
June 24th:
# The Spiderwick Chronicles
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Paramount Further Details Their Blu-ray Plans
Where the hell is TRANSFORMERS? I hope it comes out in DolbyTrueHD :P :P :P
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Where the hell is TRANSFORMERS? I hope it comes out in DolbyTrueHD :P :P :P
Yup, was also wondering why TRANSFORMERS was not included >:( >:( >:(
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Be patient....I'm sure in the near future it will be released. ;D
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thats Paramounts strategy >:(, as usual being jerks, pa importante ;D..I think their strategy is to announce only few titles and most of the titles are not available in hddvd bec they want the titles in hddvd to sell out first. ;D
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Funny after paramounts small bluray lineup announcement, check out amazons pricing, they have transformers back to 27 plus dollars from 18.95 and Top gun from 11.95 to 19.95. I thought war is over. tsk tsk tsk.. ???.. Im getting Bee Movie bluray for sure, I really love that movie ;D..
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Funny after paramounts small bluray lineup announcement, check out amazons pricing, they have transformers back to 27 plus dollars from 18.95 and Top gun from 11.95 to 19.95. I thought war is over. tsk tsk tsk.. ???.. Im getting Bee Movie bluray for sure, I really love that movie ;D..
tsk tsk tsk
Greedy bunch, taking advantage of consumers >:(
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Funny after paramounts small bluray lineup announcement, check out amazons pricing, they have transformers back to 27 plus dollars from 18.95 and Top gun from 11.95 to 19.95. I thought war is over. tsk tsk tsk.. ???
True... now that Blu-ray is king, they can charge higher na.... :(
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True... now that Blu-ray is king, they can charge higher na.... :(
Well, when DVD started ganito din naman ang pricing nila.. It will go down eventually..
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Well, when DVD started ganito din naman ang pricing nila.. It will go down eventually..
DVD didn't go down & came up noh....unlike in Blu-ray case... :-[
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If you follow the pricing of Amazon, both DVDs and Blu-ray movies actually go up and down every few weeks or so.. you can check this if you put Blu-ray movies and DVDs on your shopping cart.. ;D ;D ;D
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I misread...those tittles mentioned by Moks007 earlier are actually HD DVD pala not BD.... ;D
The prices jump up btw 40-60% probably due to inventory shortage na similar to the HD DVD player case (but luckily we bought them before the price increase)... ;D
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Bourne Trilogy Blu coming soon in DTS HD MA ;D ;D ;D
Universal Talks Blu-ray Audio Plans
Update: We've received some questions asking for clarification on Universal's resoundingly well-received decision to adopt DTS-HD on Blu-ray. Is it really Master Audio? Or compressed 1.5 core DTS? To answer this, we'll let Universal tell you in their own words.
"Universal (editor's note: Blu-ray) titles contain DTS-HD Master Audio (Lossless) on all English tracks."
Now you know, and knowing... well, you know the rest!
In the waning months of Universal Studios Home Entertainment's HD DVD era, the studio had standardized the use of Dolby TrueHD audio on almost all newly announced titles. This was in stark contrast to the early Universal HD DVD days when the appearance of Dolby TrueHD was overshadowed by the heavy use of Dolby Digital Plus lossy audio.
Times has certainly changed, and now Universal is gearing up to enter the Blu-ray Disc arena for the first time on July 22. With this move from HD DVD to Blu-ray support comes many questions, including how Universal will approach audio with the expanded room a BD-50 disc offers over a 30GB dual-layered HD DVD disc.
Although Universal is remaining tight-lipped on a lot of details surrounding their Blu-ray presence that wasn't included in the press release, they were kind enough to entertain our questions about their audio approach on Blu-ray. The simple answer may surprise you. At the least, it should delight you.
The first wave of Universal Blu-ray Disc titles on July 22 are all from the Mummy franchise and were all previously released on HD DVD: The Mummy, The Mummy Returns and The Scorpion King. All of these titles were published with Dolby Digital Plus 5.1 audio tracks, but not Dolby TrueHD tracks.
Per Universal, all three Mummy films will include DTS-HD Master Lossless Audio. That's right, folks. Instead of lazily porting over what was already completed for HD DVD, Universal has heard your cries for lossless audio and is taking action.
Universal went on to tell us that the game plan moving forward is for DTS-HD Master Lossless to become the Blu-ray standard at the studio. Obviously there will be exceptions, but it looks like the majority of titles, and probably all new theatrical titles, will include DTS-HD.
We'll have more from Universal, including their position on U-Control appearing on Blu-ray, in the near future. Stay tuned!
http://dvd.themanroom.com/news/Exclusive_Universal_Talks_Blu-ray_Audio_Plans/2651
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Oh what a bumper! :(
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weeee DTS-HD ^_^
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XBOX 360 Finally Getting Blu-ray???
http://www.tomshardware.com/news/xbox-blu-ray-360,5272.html
The news is still considered to be a RUMOR until Microsoft releases an official statement.
360 already haved the 3RL problem..with the blu ray... BDL is something to worry about..ehehehehhe
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First Look: 'Tinker Bell' Blu-ray Box Art
Fri May 02, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4167/original.jpeg)
The Blu-ray won't arrive until October, but we've got an early peek at the box art for Disney's first animated direct-to-video high-def release.
As we've previously reported, Disney has announced an October 28 Blu-ray debut for 'Tinker Bell' (day-and-date with the standard DVD), the first in a series of four Tinker Bell direct-to-video films.
Among the confirmed bonus features are a making-of featurette, an interactive game, and two interactive guides, "NaturePedia" and "The Guide to Pixie Hollow" -- the latter exclusive to Blu-ray and enhanced with BD-Live functionality.
Tech specs include 1080p video and the studio's usual uncompressed PCM 5.1 Surround audio (at 48kHz/24-bit).
Finally, Disney has unveiled a high-res peek at the Blu-ray cover for 'Tinker Bell':
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5779/original.jpeg)
As previously announced, Disney has set a suggested retail price of $34.98.
Source: HighDef Digest
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DVD didn't go down & came up noh....unlike in Blu-ray case... :-[
they usually go up and down depending on the promotions of studio releases. just wait for sale or discount notices in your amazon cart. Fox, Warner and Paramount releases have their own markdowns similar to DVDs
naknangweteng! buti nilabas ulit ang OOP Paramount blu-ray releases before i.e. the untouchables, sleepy hollow, italian job, we were soldiers! ;D buti di agad ako bumili sa mga marketsellers
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Microsoft denies xbox 360 blu-ray reports yet again
We're beginning to lose count of how many times we've been around this carousel, but just in case you thought yet another rumor would bring the Blu-ray-infused Xbox 360 any closer to reality, Microsoft's out to put the kibosh on your wildest hopes and dreams. Following up on the latest round of whispers that surfaced last Friday, Redmond proclaimed to GamePro: "As we have stated, we have no plans to introduce a Blu-ray drive for Xbox 360." The statement also noted that "games are what drive consumers to purchase game consoles, and we remain focused on providing the largest library of blockbuster games available." Right -- which totally explains your prior relationship with HD DVD.
http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/05/05/microsoft-denies-xbox-360-blu-ray-reports-yet-again/
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A historical tidbit from the HD format war regarding Paramount's "exclusive" HD DVD support. A final act of desperation to extend a lost cause :P :P :P
Theatrical revenues declined 7% to $247 million. That was offset in part by a 22% bump in home entertainment revenue on one-time items including a $29 million payout from Toshiba for Par’s exclusive backing of the HD-DVD. The format lost the DVD war last year to Sony’s Blu-ray. Viacom said homevid revenue would have been down slightly if the payout wasn’t included due to lower catalog sales.
http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117984986.html?categoryid=13&cs=1
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Amazon Buy 2 Get 1 Free Blu-ray Sale ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Blu-ray Movies --- Because your collection, no matter how large, can never be big enough, Amazon.com is having a sale on select Fox, MGM, and Sony Blu-ray titles. For a limited time, place any three of the specially selected titles in your shopping cart, and you'll automatically receive a discount for the lowest cost title.
As with all Amazon sales, this is offer is for a limited time only, and once titles run out of stock, they will no longer be offered as part of the sale. This is a great opportunity to stock up on those higher priced Fox titles that some consumers choose to skip due to their price. (bluray.com)
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Guys, you can check out this link for added info on the BD titles up for grabs:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html/ref=pe_20890_9205720_fe_txt_1/?docId=1000225131&tag=bluraynews-20
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It's been a while since the last amazon promo...it's good to see em back but pls give us more tittles to choose!! :D
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Paramount to Re-Issue Entire Blu-ray Back Catalog
Only days after Paramount announced it would be re-issuing a select number of discontinued Blu-ray catalog titles this Spring, the studio has confirmed it is returning its entire Blu-ray back catalog to store shelves by the end of May.
As we first reported last week, Paramount announced plans to re-issue eight previously-discontinued catalog titles on the format on May 20. Now there's even more good news for fans who have been unable to find past Paramount Blu-ray titles at retailer locations, as the studio will re-issue their entire Blu-ray back catalog.
Word from Paramount is that the titles are identical to the original releases (even the catalog IDs and SKUs remain consistent), so expect the same tech specs, supplement details, and packaging.
The complete list of newly-reactivated titles includes: 'Black Rain,' 'Coming to America,' 'Disturbia,' 'Failure to Launch,' 'Flags of Our Fathers,' 'Four Brothers,' 'Freedom Writers,' 'Hustle & Flow,' 'Lara Croft: Tomb Raider,' 'The Italian Job (2003),' 'Letters from Iwo Jima,' 'The Manchurian Candidate (2004),' 'Mission: Impossible,' 'M-i-2,' 'M:i:III,' 'Mission: Impossible - Ultimate Missions Collection,' 'Nacho Libre,' 'Norbit,' 'Payback: Straight Up - The Director's Cut,' 'Reds,' 'Shooter,' 'Trading Places,' 'We Were Soldiers,' 'World Trade Center' and 'U2 Rattle & Hum.'
These nearly three-dozen titles join the previous eight announced by Paramount last week: 'Aeon Flux,' 'Babel,' 'Black Snake Moan,' 'Dreamgirls,' 'Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow,' 'Sleepy Hollow,' 'The Untouchables' and 'The Warriors.' (hidefdigest.com).
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;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/girlsgonewild.jpg)
Street Date: June 10, 2008
Video Resolution/Codec
* 1080i/MPEG-2
Aspect Ratio(s)
* 1.78:1
Audio Formats
* English Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround
Subtitles/Captions
* English Subtitles
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Ngek! Bold movie?? ;D
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Toshiba pushes firmware 3.0 update to first-gen HD DVD players
(http://img140.imageshack.us/img140/479/hdxahead050708jj0.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
All those still hanging onto your obsolete vintage first generation HD DVD players have a reason to plug in the network cable and turn them on one more time, as Toshiba has issued a version 3.0 firmware update for the HD-A1, HD-XA1 and HD-D1. Similar to an earlier update for the Xbox 360 HD DVD add-on, the patch tweaks network connectivity a bit as well as clearing up some HDMI handshaking issues. The update quietly came online April 26, and of course can be issued by burning it to a CD or calling Toshiba and requesting a disc by mail. So go ahead, pour a glass of wine, dim the lights and celebrate a little quality time with a two year-old box that still offers features some new players can't match.
http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/05/08/toshiba-pushes-firmware-3-0-update-to-first-gen-hd-dvd-players/
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Ngek! Bold movie?? ;D
Hehe... well it's soft porn - just a tad more aggressive than our 'Bikini Destination' BD Paul.
Well the GGW franchise has previously slid-in some titles in BD in Amazon:
Amzaon GGW BD (http://www.amazon.com/gp/search?index=blended&keywords=girls%20gone%20wild%20bluray&_encoding=UTF8) ;D
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Criterion Launches Blu-ray Support
Thu May 08, 2008 at 01:50 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5838/original.jpeg)
The leading distributor of classic cinema on DVD has gone Blu, with the Criterion Collection announcing the release of their first high-def titles beginning in 2008.
Blasting out of the starting gate strong, Criterion has confirmed via their official email newsletter that they have hand-picked over a dozen initial titles to receive the Blu-ray treatment, with the first releases due by the second half of the year.
The thirteen titles confirmed to be a part of Criterion's first Blu-ray wave include: 'The Third Man,' 'Bottle Rocket,' 'Chungking Express,' 'The Man Who Fell to Earth,' 'El Norte,' 'The 400 Blows,' 'Gimme Shelter,' 'The Complete Monterey Pop,' 'Contempt,' 'Walkabout,' 'For All Mankind,' 'The Wages of Fear,' and both stand-alone and deluxe box set editions of 'The Last Emperor.'
According to Criterion, the new editions will feature "glorious high-definition picture and sound," and all the supplemental content of their companion DVD releases.
Although the company has not set any exact pricing information for any of the titles, MSRPs are expected to match the standard-def editions.
Needless to say, we'll keep you posted as soon as further details and specs are announced, as well as of all future Criterion announcements. Stay tuned!
SOURCE: HighDef Digest
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Just what I've been waiting for so long... Criterion in Blu!!! :D
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Toshiba pushes firmware 3.0 update to first-gen HD DVD players
(http://img140.imageshack.us/img140/479/hdxahead050708jj0.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
All those still hanging onto your obsolete vintage first generation HD DVD players have a reason to plug in the network cable and turn them on one more time, as Toshiba has issued a version 3.0 firmware update for the HD-A1, HD-XA1 and HD-D1. Similar to an earlier update for the Xbox 360 HD DVD add-on, the patch tweaks network connectivity a bit as well as clearing up some HDMI handshaking issues. The update quietly came online April 26, and of course can be issued by burning it to a CD or calling Toshiba and requesting a disc by mail. So go ahead, pour a glass of wine, dim the lights and celebrate a little quality time with a two year-old box that still offers features some new players can't match.
http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/05/08/toshiba-pushes-firmware-3-0-update-to-first-gen-hd-dvd-players/
WHOA!! :o :o :o :o
I hope Tosh releases a firmware update for the 2nd generation players also.
Here's hoping ;)
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Nielsen VideoScan High-Def market share for week ending May 4th, 2008
(http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/3897/nielsen0504082708ebvm3.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
We said that Home Media Magazine gave up on HD DVD last week, but really there was still one chart left on the Nielsen VideoScan chart. This week even that one is gone and replaced with another consumer index on consumer spending, but this time for DVD. This makes it evident that while Blu-ray sales were down by 23% last week, DVD was only down by 5%. This helps explain why Blu-ray only managed a 5% share as compared to 6% week before. Again, this week 8 out of the top 20 DVD titles are not also available on Blu-ray, including two from long time Blu studios; Fox and Disney. The other big difference that is every evident this week is the movie demographic of each. While DVD fans ran to 27 Dresses and pushed it to number one, the opposite is true on Blu where The Golden Compass outsold the chick flick by almost 3:1. I Am Legend continues to have long legs and still separates itself from the rest of the list even after seven weeks. Looking forward to next week, it doesn't look like Blu will do very well with the biggest titles not being very appealing to Blu's apparent demographic, but things should change once all the studios are on board in the next month or so.
(http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/4188/nielsenlist05040826f95bfx1.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/05/09/nielsen-videoscan-high-def-market-share-for-week-ending-may-4th/
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First Look: 'Men in Black' Blu-ray Box Art
Fri May 09, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4863/original.jpeg)
'Men in Black' is ready to invade Blu-ray this June, and we've got an early peek at the box art for the Will Smith blockbuster.
As we've previously reported, 'Men in Black' will hit Blu-ray June 17 as one of the most highly-anticipated releases of the season, arriving complete with extensive bonus features and BD-Live interactivity.
The BD-50 dual-layer presentation boasts all of the extras found on the trend-setting 2001 standard DVD edition, including a "Telestrator Commentary" (with director Barry Sonnenfeld and Tommy Lee Jones), second "Technical Commentary" (with Sonnenfeld, effects artist Rick Baker, and the Industrial Light & Magic Team), deleted and alternate scenes, the "Metamorphosis of Men In Black" vignette, visual effects scene deconstructions with optional technical commentary, character animation studies, storyboards, two still galleries (with concept art and production photos), a "Scene Editing Workshop," the "Men in Black" music video with Will Smith and Mikey, the "Intergalactic Pursuit" trivia game, and theatrical trailers.
As already announced, the Blu-ray will also include the exclusive "Intergalactic Pursuit" interactive game via BD-Live (Profile 2.0 compatibility required).
Tech specs include 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video (1.85:1), English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio, and a host of Dolby Digital 5.1 and subtitle options including French, Spanish, Portuguese, and Thai.
Finally, Sony has delivered the Blu-ray box art, which adds a bright spin on the previous DVD and theatrical key art:
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5839/original.jpeg)
As previously announced, Sony has set the suggested retail price at $28.96 for the Blu-ray.
You'll find final specs for 'Men in Black' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under June 17.
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Looking forward to DISNEY BLU RAY. ;D
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(http://blog.streamingmedia.com/photos/uncategorized/2007/07/02/hddvd_logo.jpg)
To residual red fans, there's a 60% off promo currently running at Amazon FYI ;)
Link here > Amazon HD-DVD Deal (http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html?ie=UTF8&plgroup=1&docId=1000213261&plpage=2)
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Sony Plans Horror Blu-rays for July
Sony Pictures Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring four horror catalog films to Blu-ray on July 22nd. Already available in Europe, Sony will bring 'The Exorcism of Emily Rose' to this side of the pond. Video will be presented in 2.35:1 1080p and accompanied by a 5.1 lossless English soundtrack. Extras include the three featurettes "Genesis of the Story", "Casting the Film", and "Visual Design".
Also coming that day will be 'Urban Legend'. Video will be presented as 2.40:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 English TrueHD soundtrack. No special features have been announced at this time, but many are expected to be ported from the DVD release.
Additionally, Sony will bring the two "I Know What You Did" films to Blu-ray on the same day. Both 'I Know What You Did Last Summer' and 'I Still Know What You Did Last Summer' will be presented in 2.40:1 1080p AVC video accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack. The only extra announced for the first film is audio commentary with the director, while the second film in the series gets a making-of featurette and the Jennifer Love-Hewitt music video for "How Do I Deal". More extras are expected for both releases, with more information coming as the release date approaches.(bluray.com)
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Sony Deals '21' on Blu-ray This July
Sony has announced a late-July next-gen bow for the smash '21,' which will hit Blu-ray with bonus features and a BD-Java exclusive.
The sleeper surprise of the Winter season, the Kevin Spacey-Jim Sturgess starrer scored over $90 million at the domestic box. Sony will debut the Blu-ray on July 22, day-and-date with the single-disc and two-disc standard DVD editions.
Bonus features shared between the Blu-ray and two-disc DVD include an audio commentary with director Robert Luketic and cast, plus a trio of featurettes ("21: The Advantage Player," "Basic Strategy: A Complete Film Journal," "Money Plays: A Tour of the Good Life").
Exclusive to the Blu-ray is the interactive game "21: Virtual Blackjack," which is also enhanced with BD-Java.
Source (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Sony/Disc_Announcements/Sony_Deals_21_on_Blu-ray_This_July/1733)
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MY TWO CENTS - 5/13/08 - by Digital Bits editor Bill Hunt
(http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/1800/indianajonespackbd16b7cxr4.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
In terms of news today, here's something interesting that would normally go in The Rumor Mill (so take it with a MAJOR grain of salt): The Spanish DVD website 1080b (http://www.1080b.com/) is reporting that Paramount will be releasing both The Godfather: The Francis Ford Coppola Restoration and The Indiana Jones Quadrilogy on Blu-ray Disc on 10/29. They've even got cover art for the supposed Spanish versions of the discs, though it looks somewhat fake. Now, it's possible that this is legit, but we don't know how reliable the site is. We've got calls and e-mails out to both our industry sources and the studio, however, so we'll let you know more as soon as we can confirm anything. If it's fake, we would expect Paramount to want to kill the rumor pretty quickly. If it IS true, it would obviously be HUGE news, so rest assured we'll leave no stone unturned.
We'll be back later this evening or tomorrow morning with more announcement news and anything we're able to learn about Godfather and Indy on Blu-ray.
[Editor's Note: A second Spanish DVD website, ZonaDVD (http://www.zonadvd.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=10686), is also now reporting that Paramount (in Europe) has confirmed with them that both Indy and Godfather are coming to Blu-ray in Spain in October, and also that Top Gun and Transformers are due then as well. I expect to hear back from Paramount here in the States soon, so stay tuned...]
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Holy Smoke....hope it's TRUE! Give us Indiana Jones! :D
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Whoa!! :o
The Godfather by golly,
that's pretty quick for Lucasarts.
Does this mean that Star Wars is not far away.
???
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The GODFATHER & Indiana Jones in BD? :o :o :o Ayos !!!!!
hmmmm, hope that the statements in the news item are true .... and release those titles in BD sooooooon ;D ;D ;D
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MY TWO CENTS - 5/13/08 - by Digital Bits editor Bill Hunt
(LATE UPDATE - 5/13/08 - 5:15 PM PDT)
Okay, we've heard back from Paramount. They tell me officially that the artwork posted on the 1080b website is fake (it looks like someone took the DVD covers and mocked up Blu-ray versions in Photoshop), which we already suspected. They also tell me that they currently have no information regarding the status of these titles being released on Blu-ray... which is something of a non-denial denial. So... where does that leave us?
After hearing back from some of our sources around the industry this afternoon, and now Paramount, what I think is this: It's possible, but not yet officially decided, that we could see these titles on Blu-ray this year. There are discussions, there's some work being done, but the trigger hasn't actually been pulled yet and official announcements have obviously not yet been made. Interestingly, a number of retailers have now e-mailed me to say they've heard the titles may be coming this year. So while there isn't fire yet, there's definitely smoke. If I had to lay odds, I think there's about a 70/30 chance of both the Godfather films and Indy IV coming to Blu-ray later this year, but the rest of the Indy films are still just 50/50. Again, cross your fingers, be patient and hopefully we'll hear more officially one way or the other soon. We will, of course, keep you updated.
Back tomorrow. Stay tuned...
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Here comes another HD double dip... :P
Universal Announces Specs for The Mummy
Universal Studios Home Entertainment has revealed the specs for the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'The Mummy', due to hit store shelves on July 22nd, a few weeks after the DVD re-release. The film, which has been digitally remastered, will be presented on a BD-50 with 2.35:1 1080p video and a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Extras include audio commentaries with the cast and crew, four featurettes ("Visual and Special Effects Formation", "An Army to Rule the World", "Building a Better Mummy", and "Unraveling the Legacy of the Mummy"), deleted scenes, and a storyboard comparison. Exclusive to the Blu-ray release will be Universal's "U-Control" in-movie experience and a picture-in-picture behind-the-scenes look into the making of 'The Mummy'.
Also included will be a sneak peak at the upcoming 'The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor' and movie ticket offer.
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=1290
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Here comes another HD double dip... :P
Universal Announces Specs for The Mummy
Ngek! I will only double-dip if it scores a perfect 5-star rating for both VQ & AQ! :P
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'In the Line of Fire' Blu-ray Specs, Box Art Announced
Full specs and box art are in for the July Blu-ray debut of 'In the Line of Fire,' which will hit high-def with Dolby TrueHD audio and extensive bonus features.
As we've previously reported, Sony announced a July 1 arrival for the Clint Eastwood blockbuster, a longtime DVD bestseller, which is finally making its way to Blu-ray.The BD-50 dual-layer presentation will feature 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video, English, French, and Portuguese Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround tracks, a Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround dub, and subtitles in the same languages.
Extras will mirror those found on the previous special edition DVD release, including audio commentary with director Wolfgang Petersen, the documentary "The Ultimate Sacrifice," a trio of featurettes ("Behind-the-Scenes with the Secret Service," "How'd They Do That?", "Catching the Counterfeiters") and deleted scenes.
Finally, Sony has issued the Blu-ray box art for 'In the Line of Fire':
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/INTHELINEOFFIRE-2.jpg)
SRP: US$28.96. (hidefdigest.com).
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More research asserts that Blu-ray adoption isn't apt to surge soon
Don't freak out, you're not experiencing any weird case of déjà vu -- reports are simply continuing to come out that suggest that Blu-ray adoption isn't taking off. The newest of the bunch comes to us from Harris Interactive, which surveyed upwards of 2,500 individuals in mid-April. Results showed that 87% of those polled owned a DVD player, but just 4% owned a dedicated Blu-ray deck while 5% owned a PlayStation 3. Comically enough, 6% claimed that they had an HD DVD player, while another 1% owned an Xbox 360 HD DVD add-on. Most notably, just 9% of respondents stated that they were "likely" to purchase a BD player within the next year, even when made fully aware that BD was the victor in the now-concluded format war. Of course, just 35% of those polled owned an HDTV, which is certainly worth considering, but even analysts at Harris agreed that getting BD player prices well below $300 was necessary for adoption to surge. Hit the read link for lots more stats.
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BBC Announces New Blu-ray High Definition Natural History Collection Set
BBC Distributed by Warner, 'The BBC High Definition Natural History Collection' comes as an 8-disc Blu-ray set collecting all episodes of the TV series Planet Earth, Galápagos, Ganges, and Wild China in one convenient place. The attractive box set will be available on store shelves on July 22nd and carries an MSRP of $179.98.
While 'Planet Earth' and 'Galápagos' already can be purchased separately, and 'Ganges' will be released individually this summer on July 1st, the 'Wild China' Blu-ray release won't be available until August 5th, two weeks after the box set's release (bluray.com)
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Here's a look at the boxset...... ganda ... worth collecting ito kapag available na ;D ;D ;D
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/BBC.jpg)
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PS3 firmware 2.35 released, doesn't fix GTA IV woes
(http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/97/gtaivfirmwareub8.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
For those of you continuing to have Grand Theft Auto IV lockups on your PS3 even after the May 7th Rockstar patch... tough noogies. The latest 2.35 firmware won't specifically help. Sony says that the "minor update" will "improve stability of some PS3 titles" -- then clarifies that GTA IV is not part of the vagary. Nevertheless, Sony does say that they "have a identified a solution that should resolve the issue." So buck up Niko and get on the horn with Sony for help, God know the police won't.
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Console numbers released: Xbox 360 tops 10M US sales, 9.2M PS3s sold worldwide last year
(http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/3985/51408consoles136af2it5.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
Microsoft is making some noise today about the Xbox 360's sales numbers -- it's the first of this generation of consoles to top 10M sales in the US. That's well ahead of the Wii, which stands at 8.8M, and the PS3, which has under half the 360's installed base at 4.1M units sold. Worldwide, the 360 is also doing quite well: Microsoft says it's moved 19M consoles total, and that 12 million people are signed up for Xbox Live. That's behind the Wii's global sales of 25M units, but Microsoft isn't exactly content with second place -- it's making a point to say that the 360 has the " largest global install base of any current gen, high definition gaming console." Take that, Mario. Meanwhile, the PS3s doing quite nicely for itself as well: in addition to outselling the 360 in both the US and Europe, Sony says worldwide sales were up an astounding 156 percent last year with a total of 9.2M units coming off shelves, and that it expects to sell another 10M consoles by March 2009. Looks like the console race is hitting the next level -- any bets on how things will shake out in a year?
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Specs, Box Art Revealed for 'Dark City' Blu-ray
Thu May 15, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
Tags: Disc Announcements, New Line (all tags)
New Line has unleashed final specs and box art for the next-gen release of 'Dark City,' which comes to Blu-ray this July with hours of all-new bonus material.
As originally reported last month, the eagerly-awaited Blu-ray release of Alex Proyas' cult classic will debut on July 29, day-and-date with a new standard DVD re-issue.
Featuring both the original theatrical version and a never-before-seen Director's Cut (via seamless branching), the BD-50 dual-layer presentation will feature 1080p/VC-1 video and an English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 7.1 Surround soundtrack, plus English and Spanish subtitles.
The extensive extras boast an introduction by Proyas, multiple audio commentary tracks (featuring Proyas, writers Lem Dobbs and David S. Goyer, director of photography Dariusz Wolski, production designer Patrick Tatopoulos and film critic Roger Ebert), a pair of documentaries ( "Memories of Shell Beach," "Architecture of Dreams"), a production gallery, text essays and reviews, the original theatrical trailer, and on the Director's Cut only, a subtitle fact track.
Finally, New Line has issued the final Blu-ray box art for 'Dark City,' which offers a tantalizing spin on the film's previous iconography: (hidefsigest.com)
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/darkcity.jpg)
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Survey shows that 9% are likely to buy a Blu-ray player(DVDTOWN.COM)
Harris Interactive asked more than 2500 adults on their interest in Blu-ray now that the format won over HD DVD. They asked 2529 adults between April 7th and April 15th 2008.
87% said they owned a DVD player
4% said they owned a Blu-ray player
5% said they owned a Playstation 3 console
9% said they owned a XBOX 360 console
1% said they owned a XBOX 360 HD DVD drive
6% said they owned a HD DVD player
35% said they owned a HDTV
Of the non-Blu-ray owners, 9% said that it was "likely" that they would buy a player within a year. All asked were made aware that Blu-ray is considered to be the definitive technology for high-definition DVD players going forward.
The survey also asked current HD DVD owners what would become of their HD DVD player.
45% said that they will just continue to use it and continue purchasing HD DVDs as long as they are available.
14% said they will will continue to use it with the HD DVDs they have already purchased, but do not plan on buying any new ones.
15% said they will continue to use it but also plan to invest in a Blu-ray disc player in the future.
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First look at Universal's Blu-ray art
Universal reveals its first Blu-ray cover and more details on Doomsday.
Interesting notes are:
The cover has a new tag line "The Ultimate Hi-def Experience."
Universal continues (from HD DVD) U-Control as a way of branding its interactive features.
Also uses tag line "Perfect Picture, Purest Sound" not far from old HD DVD tag line "The Look and Sound of Perfect."
Universal uses DTS-HD Master Audio for this release.
The SRP of a new Blu-ray release will be the same as a "HD DVD Combo" release from the studio. $39.98.
Doomsday will hit stores on July 29th. dvdtown.com
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looky-looky .............. ;D :D ;D
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/universal-doomsday.jpg)
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The SRP of a new Blu-ray release will be the same as a "HD DVD Combo" release from the studio. $39.98.
Whoa! Universal is following Fox's pricing on BD's?!? >:( And it's not even a combo.
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Fox Adds D-Box to 'Jumper' Blu-ray
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Fox has announced updated details for the Blu-ray release of 'Jumper,' which will now add D-Box to its extras menu.
As previously reported, Fox has set a June 10 street date for the Hayden Christensen teleportation thriller (day-and-date with the standard DVD), and unveiled a complete line-up of specs with hours of extras.
D-Box combines real-life motion control of your home theater seating in sync with the on-screen action, and Fox will now enhance the 'Jumper' Blu-ray to deliver plenty of rumble during the film's famed teleportation and other action scenes.
Previously-announced supplements on the Blu-ray will feature audio commentary (with director Doug Liman, writer-producer Simon Kinberg and producer Lucas Foster), four featurettes ("Jumping From Novel To Film: The Past, Present & Future of Jumper," "Making an Actor Jump," "Doug Liman's Jumper: Uncensored," "Jumping Around The World"), six deleted scenes, "Future Concepts" pre-visuzalizations, and the animated graphic novel "Jumpstart: David's Story."
Exclusive to the Blu-ray will be the picture-in-picture feature "Jumping Around the World," which will make full use of the Blu-ray format's Profile 1.1 capabilities (a Profile 1.1-enabled player required).
Tech specs for the Blu-ray feature 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video, English 5.1 DTS HD Loss less Master Audio plus English, French and Spanish Dolby 5.1 Surround, and Spanish, Cantonese, Korean, and Mandarin subtitles
As previously announced, Fox has set a suggested retail price of $39.98 for the Blu-ray. (hidefdigest.com)
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MORE "UNIVERSAL" NEWS ............. ;D ::) ;D
Universal Goes Blu-ray This Summer
Universal Studios, once Hollywood's top backer of the doomed HD DVD video format, will soon release all its new videos on the Blu-ray format.
The studio announced on Thursday that the program will kick off in the summer with the recent box office flop "Doomsday."
Universal's Blu-ray strategy includes plans to release about 40 titles in the second half of the year.
Among them are the studio's five big feature films of the summer, including "The Incredible Hulk," with Edward Norton, William Hurt and Liv Tyler; "Wanted," an action thriller starring James McAvoy and Angelina Jolie; "Hellboy II: The Golden Army"; "Mamma Mia," the adaptation of the musical starring Meryl Streep; and the sequel "The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor," with Brendan Fraser and Jet Li. (DVDHARDWARE.CO.UK)
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Nielsen VideoScan High-Def market share for week ending May 11th, 2008
(http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/5217/nielsen511081f3f92ro3.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
DVD gains lost ground this week, but Blu-ray continues downward thanks to another weak list of releases on this week's Nielsen VideoScan chart courtesy of Home Media Magazine; but the 7.3 percent reduction isn't enough to make Blu-ray lose its 5% of the top 20 market. Speaking of the top 20, there are 9 DVDs on the top 20 that didn't make their way to Blu, and HMM added a new chart to help us compare individual title sales. The new chart shows Blu-ray's share per title and the top one on the list is a Blu-ray exclusive (Over America), and interestingly the rest of the list is filled with catalogue titles, with the highest new release, I Am Legend, at 16.8 percent. This chart will become more interesting in a few weeks when Blu-ray finally gets a hot new release after almost a month of drought. Speaking of looking forward, next week is much of the same, as it was an unofficial catalogue week for Blu. So no doubt things are going to get worse before they get better. Either way, we can't wait to see how the new chart breaks down Blu-ray's share on a hot new release like National Treasure.
(http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/4729/nielsenlist511081f506bxy5.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
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3D Blu-ray Closer to Reality
Blu-ray Disc TDVision Systems will present a new 3D system at SID 2008 that not only makes use of a standard Blu-ray disc, but is also compatible with existing, non-3D Blu-ray players. Unlike other high definition 3D options, when the 3D film is played in a non-3D Blu-ray player, it will play without any loss of quality, color, frame rate, or resolution.
The 3D system is compatible with current 3D televisions from Samsung and Mitsubishi which make use of the Texas Instruments 3D DLP chips.
Ethan Schur, Director of Product Marketing for TDVision Systems commented, "TDVision has enabled a media breakthrough with our AlterSpace product by enabling the world's first and only stereoscopic virtual world featuring media sharing and viewing. Compatible with multiple 3D display devices, this will be the industry standard that others go by." (BLURAY.COM)
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/3D_Scream.jpg)
(COURTESY OF CRAVE.CNET)
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3D Blu-ray Closer to Reality
Blu-ray Disc TDVision Systems will present a new 3D system at SID 2008 that not only makes use of a standard Blu-ray disc, but is also compatible with existing, non-3D Blu-ray players. Unlike other high definition 3D options, when the 3D film is played in a non-3D Blu-ray player, it will play without any loss of quality, color, frame rate, or resolution.
The 3D system is compatible with current 3D televisions from Samsung and Mitsubishi which make use of the Texas Instruments 3D DLP chips.
Ethan Schur, Director of Product Marketing for TDVision Systems commented, "TDVision has enabled a media breakthrough with our AlterSpace product by enabling the world's first and only stereoscopic virtual world featuring media sharing and viewing. Compatible with multiple 3D display devices, this will be the industry standard that others go by." (BLURAY.COM)
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/3D_Scream.jpg)
(COURTESY OF CRAVE.CNET)
Wow, can't wait to grab a hold of this new tech. Again raising the bar in home entertainment. ;)
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'Smallville' Season Seven Headed to Blu-ray This Fall
Wed May 21, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/1/1469/original.jpeg)
It's a bird! It's a plane! It's the return of 'Smallville' on Blu-ray, whose complete seventh season will make its next-gen bow this Fall.
Scheduled for a day-and-date release on Blu-ray and standard DVD on September 9, 'Smallville: The Complete Seventh Season' will come without high-res audio but with several bonus features.
Tech specs include 1080p/VC-1 video on all episodes (1.78:1), along with English Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround tracks.
Supplements include a pair of featurettes ("Supergirl," "Jimmy on Jimmy"), as well as a series of "Smallville Legends" web-i-sodes.
Finally, Warner has offered a high-res peek at the Blu-ray cover for 'Smallville':
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5939/original.jpeg)
Warner has set a $59.98 suggested list price for the Blu-ray.
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The 50 best Blu-ray Discs money can buy
Bought a Blu-ray player recently? Then you'll need something to watch...
Just bought yourself a Blu-ray player? Finished GTA IV and looking to stretch the home cinema talents of your PlayStation 3? Then invest in one (or more) of the Blu-ray Discs in our Top 50, which celebrates the best that the HD format has to offer.
The 50 best Blu-ray Discs you can buy. In our opinion.
50 Return to House on Haunted Hill - Warner Home Entertainment, £27.99
We’re the first to admit this horror sequel isn’t a great film. But its interactive Choose Your Own Adventure-style viewing mode makes it sing as a modern-day Blu-ray marvel. There are 90 different permutations of the tale available to view including additional lesbian ghost sex!
49 28 Weeks Later - 20th Century Fox, £28.99
Due to its low budget origins, this impressive sequel isn’t the best-looking BD disc ever. However, it will leave you quaking with fear thanks to a dynamic and expansive DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix that drags you into the heart of the on-screen horror.
48 The Fountain - 20th Century Fox, £24.99
Director Darren Aronofsky's provocative tale of love across millennia was rendered almost unwatchable on DVD thanks to a muddied, indistinct transfer. Thankfully this sublime Blu-ray print easily makes amends, rendering the dreamlike visuals perfectly.
47 The Tudors: The Complete First Season - Sony Pictures, £34.99
This sex-fueled American TV drama about the early years of Henry VIII’s reign certainly benefits from this three-disc set’s gorgeous 1080p transfers. The verdant landscapes and detailed costumes look almost 3D and the copious flesh-tones are extremely well-rendered.
46 Closer - Sony Pictures, £17.99
Proof positive that hi-def isn’t just about explosive blockbusters... This challenging and involving tale of tortured love affairs looks simply spectacular on Blu-ray. And really, which red-blooded man wouldn’t want to watch Natalie Portman strip in 1080p?
45 Bram Stoker’s Dracula - Sony Pictures, £17.99
Even if it didn’t boast an impressive MPEG-4 transfer, there would still be plenty to recommend about Francis Ford Coppola’s take on the Dracula story. Not least the wonderful new extras including a commentary, four-part 72 minute documentary and 12 deleted scenes.
44 Kingdom of Heaven: Director’s Cut - 20th Century Fox, £28.99
This vastly improved re-edit of Ridley Scott’s historical drama contains some of the most epic battle scenes yet witnessed in hi-def. If they’d only kept the legions of extras from the four-disc DVD, this Blu-ray Disc would have been much higher up our list.
43 The Simpsons Movie - 20th Century Fox, £28.99
It's understandable that you might not expect much from a hi-def version of The Simpsons. But, thanks to a straight digital-to-digital transfer, this feature film outing for Homer and family never looks less than spectacular, while the DTS-HD MA mix is as light and bouncy as you'd expect from animated fare.
42 Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby - Sony Pictures, £24.99
One of the first discs to take advantage of the additional storage space offered up by dual-layer 50GB discs, the hilarious Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby made the most of it by ensuring that all of the many extra features are presented in 1080p, just like the film itself.
41 Ghost Rider: Extended Cut - Sony Pictures, £24.99
This camp comic-book spectacular roars into life on Blu-ray courtesy of a razor-sharp transfer that makes the most of the eye-popping special effects and the kind of dynamic uncompressed PCM 5.1 mix that will rattle the foundations of your house.
40 Rocky Balboa - MGM/20th Century Fox, £24.99
Sylvester Stallone's long-awaited return to the ring delivers a knock-out punch with its devastating combination of glossy (if stylised) MPEG-4 visuals and lossless audio that drag you right into the ring with the pugilists and guarantees you feel every blow that's landed.
39 Blood Diamond - Warner Home Video, £25.99
Part action thriller, part message movie, Blood Diamond is a gripping look at the cost of the diamond trade. The already impressive hi-def package is completed by the inclusion 47 short behind-the-scenes vignettes that didn't even appear on the two-disc DVD release.
38 Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior - Warner Home Entertainment, £25.99
You can keep your Braveheart and your Lethal Weapon, for our money Mel Gibson was never better than when he brought post-apocalyptic warrior Max Rockatansky to the big screen. In addition to a lovingly restored transfer, this hi-def disc also trumps the bare-bones DVD with a fascinating director's commentary.
37 The Searchers - Warner Home Video, £25.99
Over the years Warner Home Video has made a name for itself as a true master when it comes to restoring classic movies. One of the first to appear in hi-def is John Ford's epic western, which looks utterly breathtaking thanks to landscapes that look so 3D you'd think you could step right into the screen.
36 Starship Troopers - Walt Disney Home Entertainment, £26.99
Paul Verhoeven's misunderstood sci-fi satire bristles with spectacle in hi-def. The armies of CG bugs look better than ever thanks to the insanely detailed imagery and the wonderfully dynamic uncompressed PCM 5.1 audio brings the interplanetary war to life in your front room.
35 Chicken Little - Walt Disney Home Entertainment, £26.99
Disney's first non-Pixar computer-animated feature didn't quit measure up to studio's classic 2D offerings like Snow White or Beauty and the Beast, but it certainly delivers a feast for the eyes in high-definition. It also lays some exclusive BD-Java-based extras including an interactive Q&A to enjoy while watching the film.
34 Hellboy - Sony Pictures, £17.99
This visually impressive comic-book adaptation is done full justice on Blu-ray by a magnificent MPEG-4 transfer that really brings the striking imagery to life. Just as impressive are the involving lossless audio mix and generous set of extras including a two-and-a-half hour 'Making of' documentary, commentary and deleted scenes.
33 The Departed - Entertainment in Video, £29.99
It's easy to be seduced by the criminal lifestyle when watching Martin Scorsese's remake of the Chinese hit Infernal Affairs in glorious Full HD. Accompanying the magnificent imagery and enveloping DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack are a pair of featurettes about the influences behind the film, nine deleted scenes and the trailer.
32 Face/Off - Walt Disney Home Entertainment, £26.99
What it lacks in extra features, this UK-exclusive Blu-ray version of John Woo's Face/Off more than makes up for with an impressive hi-def makeover for the film itself, including a bombastic uncompressed PCM 5.1 soundtrack that has bullets flying past your heading and explosions rocking your chairs.
31 Kiss Kiss Bang Bang - Warner Home Video, £25.99
This postmodern genre pastiche was overlooked at cinemas, but is well worth checking out of Blu-ray. Not only will it keep you gripped and make you chuckle, but it looks and sounds fantastic, and also throws in an exclusive commentary that wasn't on the UK DVD release.
30 Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire - Warner Home Video, £25.99
The second best of the Potter films to date conjures up some of the most spectacular sequences in the series' history. Harry's battle with the dragon is a masterpiece of visual effects and sound design, all of which shines through on Blu-ray. And unlike some other Potter discs, this one also waves its wand and delivers some decent extras.
29 The Seventh Seal - Tartan Video, £37.99
Best known for its scenes of Death playing chess, acclaimed filmmaker Ingmar Bergman's classic shows that even 50 year old black and white films can look unbelievably good on Blu-ray. In addition to the lovingly restored HD transfer, this so-called 'Future Proof' set also includes a DVD version of the movie as well.
28 Independence Day - 20th Century Fox, £22.99
Summer blockbusters don't come much bigger or much dumber than this entertainingly silly reworking of War of the Worlds. Overflowing with epic set-pieces and spectacle, the film is a joy to behold in 1080p, while the DTS-HD Master Audio mix is loud enough to convince you that the world really is ending!
27 Eastern Promises - Pathé Distribution Ltd., £24.99
Cult filmmaker David Cronenberg comes to London for this shocking thriller about the Russian mafia. The grim and gritty visuals are expertly handled by the hi-def transfer, the lossless audio ensures that the naked fistfight has a truly visceral impact and there are even a couple of fascinating behind-the-scenes featurettes on offer as well.
26 Queen: Rock Montreal & Live Aid - Eagle Vision, £16.99
Offering unbeatable value for money, this cracking disc delivers not one, but two legendary sets. The 1981 Montreal gig is the main focus of the release, remastered into 1080p for this release and accompanied by a phenomenal DTS-HD mix. Queen's Live Aid set is only an extra and is presented in standard-definition, but it's still must-have stuff for fans.
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The 50 best Blu-ray Discs money can buy .... continued ;D
25 The Rock - Walt Disney Home Entertainment, £26.99
Nicolas Cage and Sean Connery head to Alcatraz to stop a rogue military faction from releasing chemical weapons on American soil in this entertaining action flick. Unsurprisingly, the film looks and sounds first-rate on Blu-ray, but it doesn't skimp on extras either, delivering six featurettes, outtakes, interviews and more.
24 Déjà Vu - Walt Disney Home Entertainment, £26.99
Not content with quite literally opening with a bang and then serving up one of the most audacious car chases you'll ever see, the Blu-ray version of this time-twisting Denzel Washington thriller also includes an exclusive 'Surveillance Window' mode that allows you to drop out of the film at certain points to see how specific scenes were made.
23 Tekkonkinkreet - Sony Pictures, £17.99
We haven't seen much in the way of hi-def Japanese animation yet, but if Tekkonkinkreet is any indication of what fans can expect, then there are plenty of good days ahead. The image is bright and vibrant, the uncompressed audio is suitably kinetic and it even throws in a commentary, documentary and interviews.
22 Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest - Walt Disney Home Entertainment, £26.99
The weakest part of the Pirates franchise still has a lot to recommend it on Blu-ray. The transfer is finely detailed and looks exceptionally filmic, while the uncompressed PCM 5.1 mix is extremely aggressive. The two-disc set also packs in plenty of extras, including a Blu-ray exclusive game that includes specially filmed 1080p footage.
21 Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban - Warner Home Video, £25.99
Darker and definitely more mature than its predecessors, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban remains the high point of the Potter franchise. Director Alfonso Cuaron brings a distinctive look and feel to the story that translates perfectly to the home thanks to a striking 1080p transfer. The uncompressed PCM audio matches the flawless imagery, ensuring that the action scenes sound suitably robust and involving.
20 TMNT - Warner Home Video, £27.99
The ‘Heroes in a Half-Shell’ get a high-definition makeover courtesy of this astonishing disc. The undoubted highlight is the remarkable VC-1 encode. Taken directly from the original digital source, it's a flawless representation of what the filmmakers intended. Similarly impressive is the Dolby TrueHD mix, which manhandles the listener before beating them into submission.
19 Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl - Walt Disney Home Entertainment, £26.99
The first, and best, of the series, Curse of the Black Pearl comes extremely close to matching its two sequels in terms of picture and audio quality. What makes the Blu-ray version so special though is an interactive series of vignettes about pirate lore. Making use of BD-Java prompts and seamless branching, it allows the user to tailor their viewing experience. Either drop out of the film to watch the vignettes at relevant points, or save them all up to run automatically after the final credits roll.
18 Superbad: 2-Disc Extended Edition - Sony Pictures, £24.99
As the funniest film of 2007, we'd be recommending the hilariously crude (yet genuinely touching) teen comedy Superbad even if it weren’t one of the best Blu-ray discs around. However, as luck would have it, this two-disc set easily exceeds expectations with a superlative transfer and lively uncompressed PCM 5.1 soundtrack. However, with the set the film is only half the fun, as there's no shortage of hilarious extras including spoof featurettes, masses of deleted scenes and an exclusive set-top game.
17 Cars - Walt Disney Home Entertainment, £26.99
Most people agree that Cars wasn't Pixar's finest hour. Yet even when Pixar isn't at the top of its game, its films are still much better than the competition. Unsurprisingly, Cars looks simply phenomenal in glorious 1080p, ranking up there with the best transfers we've ever seen. Better still though is the 'Cine-Explore' viewing mode, that uses BD-J technology. There's also a second encode of the film that enables viewers watch the film while switching between a pair of commentaries, check out pop-up artwork and link from the film to deleted scenes and featurettes.
Blu-ray: Pan's Labyrinth
16 Pan’s Labyrinth - Optimum Releasing, £24.99
The third of writer/director Guillermo del Toro 'adult fairy tales', this dark and disturbing film contrasts the horrors of the Spanish Civil War with a nightmarish world of creatures overseen by the decrepit beast Pan.
Having allowed his imagination to run riot, del Toro packs the film with incredible sights, all of which are brought brilliantly to life by the exceptional Full HD transfer. There's no shortage of features either, including a commentary, documentaries, art galleries and more. It's just a shame that the video commentary from the American release isn't included.
15 Shoot ‘Em Up - Entertainment in Video, £24.99
If your idea of home cinema heaven is surrounding yourself with the sound of gunfire and explosions then you're going to love Shoot 'Em Up. This adrenaline-fueled flick might have its tongue wedged deep into its cheek, but it also serves up a kick-ass DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 soundtrack that really makes the most of the seemingly never-ending shoot-outs that permeate the film. Add a top-notch transfer and an exclusive BD-Java video commentary, and you have a Blu-ray disc to set your sights on.
14 The Host - Optimum Releasing, £24.99
Forget Cloverfield; if you want a truly original monster movie then make sure to catch this South Korean addition to the genre. Admittedly, the impressive HD imagery on the disc ensures that you can now pick apart some of the small flaws in the computer-generated beastie, but the film still manages to impress. While there are no exclusive extras, this single-disc offering is over-flowing with additional goodies including a commentary, ten behind-the-scenes featurettes, a gag reel, 14 deleted scenes and the trailer.
13 300 - Warner Home Video, £27.99
Historical revisionism at its most macho is the order of the day in this testosterone-driven, CG-aided recreation of the final stand taken by 300 Spartan soldiers against the might of the Persian empire.
What it lacks in realism, it more than makes up for with stylish visuals (drawn from the acclaimed comic book) and a Dolby TrueHD soundtrack that's more aggressive than the wolf Leonidas fights at the start of the film. Throw in a host of extras including featurettes, deleted scenes and a commentary and you have an unbeatable warrior in Blu-ray form.
12 Live Free or Die Hard - 20th Century Fox, £28.99
Leave it to Bruce Willis to bring some top-notch explosive action to Blu-ray. This Blu-ray version isn't the slightly extended, ‘swearier’ version that appeared on DVD, but it's undoubtedly the best looking and sounding version, with the atmospheric DTS-HD Master Audio mix continually dragging you off the sofa and right into the middle of the on-screen action. If we have any complaints it that, while including some fascinating 'Making of' material, the UK disc drops the commentary and interactive game that were included on the American release.
11 Casino Royale - Sony Pictures, £24.99
Is Daniel Craig the best Bond? Well, for our money it's a little too early to tell. However, we're happy to go on record saying that Casino Royale is undoubtedly the best looking and sounding Bond film in the franchise's lengthy history.
The video is crisp, detailed and colourful (if deliberately over-saturated) and the uncompressed PCM 5.1 mix is packed full of sonic highlights that you'll use to show off your system to friends for months to come. Once again, our only complaint comes down to the rather lackluster extras (although a couple are at least in HD) and the feeling that a superior feature-packed edition won't be far off.
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and the last 10 of .......... The 50 best Blu-ray Discs money can buy .... ;)
10 Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride - Warner Home Video, £25.99
Anybody who thinks that stop-motion animation is a thing of the past needs to take a look at this incredible Blu-ray release. This is a dark, dark film, and yet the image is always packed full of detail, while the animation itself (stop-motion with additional computer effects) is smooth and clean.
Although the disc only offers a high-bitrate Dolby Digital 5.1EX mix, the film always sounds rich, while the musical numbers have unexpected range. Fans will also get a kick out of the eight informative behind-the-scenes featurettes and music-only soundtrack included on the disc.
09 Planet Earth: The Complete Series - 2entertain Ltd., £49.99
Who would have thought it? A nature documentary nestled amongst Blu-ray Buyer's top ten Blu-ray discs! But, then Planet Earth is no ordinary nature series.
Each 50-minute episode of this captivating look at our planet and the myriad types of animals that inhabit inspires a greater sense of awe and wonder in the viewer than any Hollywood blockbuster could ever hope to achieve. This is simply down to the breathtaking visuals, with the gorgeous HD transfer making it feel like you could just step forward and be swimming with dolphins or scaling steep cliffs with snow leopards yourself.
08 Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End - Walt Disney Home Entertainment, £29.99
If this final part of the Pirates trilogy ends with more of a whimper than a bang in terms of storytelling, at least it knows how to deliver masses of crowd-pleasing spectacle along the way. The uncompressed PCM 5.1 mix whips up a storm as the climactic battle occurs in the maelstrom, and even here the impeccable image quality never falters.
Once again, all of the extras from the two-disc DVD are present, this time joined by a fascinating Inside the Maelstrom hi-def feature that gives you a time-lapse look at the making of the sets for the final battle, while dipping in and out of more in-depth behind-the-scenes material.
07 Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer - 20th Century Fox, £28.99
As daft and garish as the '60s Batman TV series, this Fantastic Four sequel is a jolly superhero romp filled with outlandish characters and special effects. The titular Silver Surfer is one of the film's major plus-points, a completely computer-generated character that looks even more impressive than ever before courtesy of yet another exceptional 1080p transfer from 20th Century Fox.
Technically it's nigh-on impossible to fault this disc, and amongst the many extras you'll also find a surprisingly entertaining BD-Java strategy game that provides much more of a challenge than the so-called 'interactive games' included on many other Blu-ray discs.
06 Close Encounters of the Third Kind: Ultimate Edition - Sony Pictures, £22.99
If there's one contemporary filmmaker who is noticeably under-represented in hi-def at present it's Steven Spielberg. Thankfully, while only one of his films is currently available on Blu-ray, it's one of his very best.
Unlike a certain other filmmaker, while Spielberg has tampered with the Close Encounters cut several times over the years, he's not just giving us one version, instead this two-disc set includes the original 1977 theatrical cut, the 1980 'Special Edition' and the 1997 'Director's Cut' via the magic of seamless branching. A second disc houses three documentaries, deleted scenes and several Blu-ray exclusives including extensive photograph/art/storyboard galleries and three theatrical trailers.
05 3:10 to Yuma - Lionsgate, £24.99
While much of the industry felt hamstrung by Profile 1.0 functionality and was waiting for the arrival of Profile 1.1 companies, Lionsgate went out of its way to deliver more than you might expect on its 1.0 discs. 3:10 to Yuma is a prime example of this.
Not only does it count a plethora of featurettes and documentaries amongst its extra features, but there's also an 'Inside Yuma' viewing mode that uses a second encode of the film and BD-Java to deliver picture-in-picture content. And it doesn't hurt that the film itself is a sharpshooter of a western that you can't help but enjoy.
04 Blade Runner: The Final Cut - Warner Home Video, £27.99
Despite being the most visually influential film of the 1980s, Ridley Scott's sci-fi-noir adaptation of Philip K Dick's Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep was poorly treated on DVD. That was, until last year, when Scott unveiled his new Final Cut of the film.
This Blu-ray edition boasts the most stunning looking version of the film ever released - despite being some 26 years old, the imagery is so sharp and colourful that it looks as if it was only shot yesterday. The Blu-ray disc also comes packaged with a bonus DVD containing the fabulous three-and-three-quarter-hour retrospective 'Making of' documentary Dangerous Days. It's just a shame that the UK didn't get the five-disc edition released in America, containing all five different cuts of the film and even more special features.
03 Hairspray: Two-Disc Shake & Shimmy Edition - Entertainment in Video, £29.99
We admit it. We were just as surprised as anyone that a musical made it into the top three of this list of the 50 best Blu-ray discs. Let alone one based on a Broadway show that has its origins in a low-budget flick from the 'Sultan of Sleaze' John Waters.
Not only is it a great film, guaranteed to leave a smile on your face, but it also boasts a superlative VC-1 transfer and gorgeously wide DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 soundtrack, which works wonders with the musical numbers. Then thrown in a seemingly endless supply of extras, including a Java-based, non-Profile 1.1 picture-in-picture commentary. Only when you see the hi-def magic they've worked on this film will you really start to see where we're coming from.
02 Spider-Man: The High Definition Trilogy - Sony Pictures, £49.99
Even with a slightly disappointing final film, Spider-Man reigns supreme as the current king of the Hollywood blockbuster. And, if like so many of us, you're a fan on the web-slinger's films then you can't pass up the chance to own them in high-definition.
Despite being made several years apart, and in different aspect ratios, there's an impressive consistency to all three 1080p transfers, each capturing the shadowy, night-time action as easily as it does the bright colours of Spidey's costumes. The trio also sound fantastic thanks to truly heroic Dolby TrueHD soundtracks that blow pretty much everything else available out of the water in terms of fidelity and directional effects.
Much as the critics knocked it, Spider-Man 3 also comes laden with extras, the vast majority of which are featured in hi-def. It's just a pity that there are no extras at all for the first two films, beyond the inclusion of both the theatrical and extended cuts of Spider-Man 2.
01 Ratatouille/Pixar Shorts : Limited Edition Double-Pack - Walt Disney Home Entertainment, £34.99
So here it is, the best Blu-ray release available... and it's a kid's film? Well, we think it's safe to say that anybody who has had the pleasure of sitting through the likes of Toy Story and Finding Nemo will be aware that Pixar crams more characterisation, emotion, laughs and action into each of its films than you'll find in most Hollywood product. And the company's latest, Ratatouille is no exception.
As a Blu-ray package, this limited edition set is simply unmissable. Ratatouille looks simply sublime, bursting with levels of fine detailing that will make your eyes water. The uncompressed PCM 5.1 audio is similarly impressive, throwing effects all around your speaker system with ease. There's also a healthy set of extras including two animated shorts, deleted scenes and plenty of Blu-ray-exclusives including a Cine-Explore Java-based Profile 1.0 picture-in-picture viewing mode.
But that's only half the fun. The second disc in the set, The Pixar Short Films Collection: Volume One, houses all 13 of Pixar's CG shorts up to and including Lifted (the short produced to accompany Ratatouille). They all look great, sound even better and there are even more fan-pleasing extras including filmmakers' commentaries for all 13 shorts and The Pixar Shorts: A Short History featurette. (techradar.com)
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Why is I ROBOT not included in your top 50? Based on reviews it received the highest recommendation.
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Panasonic Announces First Single-Chip LSI
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/panasoniclogo.jpg)
Panasonic has announced that they have developed the world's first Blu-ray Disc player-specific single-chip signal processing LSI. This new chip, which not only 50% smaller, but also uses 25% less power, is compliant with BD-Live (Profile v2.0) standards. Up until now, Blu-ray Disc players required separate front end and back end LSI in addition to seven external memory chips.
The chip also uses Panasonic's updated UniPhier platform and supports all high definition video and audio formats (including lossless). Additionally, the chip supports dual screen output, leading the way towards a 3D experience. ;D ;D ;D
Samples are expected to be delivered in June with no set time-table revealed for mass production. (bluray.com)
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/PANASONICLSI-1.jpg)
By using this product, Panasonic will be able to realize smaller sizes and lower power consumption in BD players compatible with the latest BD standards*2.
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Electronics specialists expect Blu-ray to outpace DVD sales
http://www.videobusiness.com/index.asp?layout=article&articleid=CA6563664
MAY 23 | High-end consumer electronics retailers expect set-top Blu-ray players to begin outselling DVD players by August, as a wave of new models eases current supply problems.
Since the format war ended in February, demand for BD players by early adopters has been higher than that for standard DVD at Ultimate Electronics, Crutchfield and Bjorn’s. But there has been too little BD product available for the retailers to realize the format’s potential. The stores believe they should finally have adequate supply by August, as Sony, Samsung, Panasonic, Philips and Pioneer will be launching new BD set-tops.
Samsung’s first picture-in-picture model, the BD-P1500, rolled out at Best Buy this month, and should spread widely at retail soon. Sony’s first BD-Live player, the BDP-S350, and Panasonic’s first BD-Live model, DMP-BD50, will hit stores in July. Pioneer’s BDP-51FD and Elite BDP-05FD, the manufacturer’s first picture-in-picture models, are expected by the July-August frame as well.
Manufacturers, including Panasonic, have said that production hasn’t kept pace with demand because the war ended sooner than expected.
“People have been waiting weeks for Sony players, but it should get better later in the summer,” said Rick Souder, executive VP of merchandise at Crutchfield. “In August, it will be the first time that Blu-ray overtakes [standard DVD] sales for us on a unit basis.”
For some time, revenue on relatively higher-priced BD set-tops has trumped standard DVD at Crutchfield. Currently, the dollar split is 60% Blu-ray and 40% standard.
Besides consumers’ growing confidence in this one high-def format choice, retailers note the February 2009 digital TV transition also is sparking interest in Blu-ray.
“I think HD of any kind is experiencing a lift, as people become more cognizant of the DTV transition,” said Matt Duda, Ultimate Electronics merchandising director of video. “People wonder if they need a new TV, and it’s a great time for retail to capitalize on that. Just getting that footstep in the door is a great way to educate consumers about all high-def products.”
Ultimate Electronics’ BD revenue will surpass that of standard DVD for the first time by August, projects Duda. On a unit basis, BD sales still trail standard DVD at Ultimate.
“There should be a healthy supply by August and [manufacturers] should be caught up in production,” said Duda. “You’re getting five to eight new [BD] players in the market, and you’ll see Blu-ray catching up with standard DVD.”
The retailer is already planning to roll out in-store seminars about the new Panasonic players, as they will represent some of the first set-tops that can access Web content.
With this hardware ramp-up, Bjorn’s will be moving virtually all BD players within its home entertainment area. The upscale San Antonio superstore expects to shift from 70% BD unit sales/30% standard to 90% BD/10% standard by the end of the summer.
Bjorn’s recently carved out a Sony-branded store-within-a-store boutique. But Bjorn’s currently isn’t offering any Sony players. Also troublesome, Bjorn’s owner Bjorn Dybdahl and his team are fond of pumping profits by selling high-def TV and BD hardware together. But the retailer hasn’t been able to offer these bundle deals for much of this year.
“Everyone is trying to assure us the supply is going to get better,” said owner Bjorn Dybdahl. “Right now it’s a hindrance.”
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Transformers 2-disc Blu-ray edition coming September 2?
Will it also be include DTS-HD MA?
(http://img86.imageshack.us/img86/4571/paramounttransfomersbayuw8.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
The day Michael Bay and fans of Blu-ray and big robots have all been waiting for is September 2, according to advanced, inside information obtained by TVShowsonDVD.com. Last year's HD DVD blockbuster Transformers is finally coming to Blu-ray after last fall's exclusivity agreement fell by the wayside, in a 2-disc release described as "similar" to the previous version. Hopefully that means all HDi and internet connectivity features intact, with new bits added courtesy of 50GBs of storage space and BD-Live. We expect there should be, and with a majority of Blu-ray owners using PlayStation 3s, they may even surpass the HD DVD edition's 30% internet-connected rate.
http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/05/25/transformers-2-disc-blu-ray-edition-coming-september-2/
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Transformers 2-disc Blu-ray edition coming September 2?
hmmmmm. Interesting news. Hope they push thru with this.
Saw this BD cover at Amazon .... ;D
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/transformersBD.jpg)
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Torchwood Season One Coming to Blu-ray
BBC Home Video has announced that they will release the first season of the acclaimed British series "Torchwood" for Blu-ray. On September 16th, they will release 'Torchwood: The Complete First Season' on six BD-25s. Video will be presented with 16:9 high definition and accompanied by a DTS surround sound track.
Full specs are below:
* Disc 1 Episode 1- Everything Changes
* Episode 2 - Day One
* Welcome to Torchwood
* Torchwood on the Scene
* Torchwood Out of this World: Weevil, Sex Gas
* Deleted Scenes
* Welcome to Torchwood - Part 2 (pre-series trailer)
* Torchwood Declassified: Jack's Back, Bad Day at the Office
* Audio Commentaries
* Blu-Ray set up guide
* Disc 2 Episode 3 - Ghost Machine
* Episode 4 - Cyberwoman
* Episode 5 - Small Worlds
* Torchwood Out of This World: Ghost Machine, Cyberwoman, Fairies
* Torchwood Declassified: Living History, Girl Trouble, Away with the Fairies
* Audio Commentaries
* Disc 3 Episode 6 - Countrycide
* Episode 7 - Greeks Bearing Gifts
* Torchwood: Sex, Violence, Blood and Gore
* The team and their troubles: Ianto & Evan, Toshiko & Mary
* Torchwood Declassified: The Country Club, There's Something About Mary
* Audio Commentaries
* Disc 4 Episode 8 - They Keep Killing Suzie
* Episode 9 - Random Shoes
* Torchwood on the Road
* The team and their troubles: Owen & Suzie, Gwen & Eugene
* Deleted Scenes / Torchwood Declassified: Beyond the Grave, Dead Man Walking
* Audio Commentaries
* Disc 5 Episode 10 - Out of Time
* Episode 11 - Combat
* Torchwood: Moments in the Making: A Wing and a Prayer, Fight Night
* The Captains Log
* Torchwood Declassified: Time Flies, Weevil Fight Club
* Audio Commentaries
* Disc 6 Episode 12 - Captain Jack Harkness
* Episode 13 - End of Days
* Torchwood Moments in the Making: Officer and a Gentleman, Bombing the Base
* Torchwood On Time
* Deleted Scenes
* Outtakes
* Torchwood Declassified: Blast from the Past, To the End
* Audio Commentaries (BLURAY.COM)
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/Torchwood-banner2.jpg)
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/torchwood.jpg)
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Warner Announces Beetlejuice for Blu-ray
Warner Home Video has announced that they will bring a newly restored version of 'Beetlejuice' to Blu-ray on September 16th, day-and-date with the DVD re-release. This 20th Anniversary Deluxe edition will feature 1080p VC-1 video accompanied by a Dolby TrueHD soundtrack. The Blu-ray release will also feature an exclusive CD soundtrack sampler.
The only extra announced so far are three episodes of the Beetlejuice cartoon ("A-Ha", "Skeletons In The Closet", and "Spooky Boo-tique").
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=1316
Blu-ray Transformers is Coming!
The folks at TVShowsonDVD.com have the inside scoop on one of the biggest blockbuster hits of last year finally making its way to Blu-ray. According to their sources, 'Transformers' will finally be arriving for Blu-ray on September 2nd. The release is expected to mirror the previous HD DVD release (minus the glitches, of course).
Nothing is official at this point, but we'll keep you posted as more information surfaces.
Thanks goes to Stryydr for submitting the news.
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=1317
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STARSHIP TROOPERS 3 : MARAUDER --- on Blu ray August 5th
Starship Troopers 3: Marauder explodes with mind-blowing man-on-bug combat! Col. Johnny Rico (Casper Van Dien) is back to lead his team on a secret mission to rescue a small crew of troopers stranded on the remote planet of OM-1. Battling bugs, both new and old, the new "Marauder" advanced weapons technology may be their only hope against a treasonous element operating within the Federation itself. As Captain Lola Beck (Jolene Blalock) and the rest of the starship crew fight to survive in the harsh conditions, it begins to dawn on them that something on OM-1 is very, very wrong. This time the bugs have a secret weapon that could destroy humanity. Join the Mobile Infantry in this intergalactic action-packed adventure.
- "Marauder Mode - Picture in Picture" features pop-up video segments and high-tech graphics that reveal new information about the characters, special effects, bugs, war gear and story. (Blu-Ray only)
- BD Live - Blu-ray™ High Def will also include brand new BD-Live features that Trooper fan new and old won't want to miss! Compatible Blu-ray™players and PlayStation 3 use an Ethernet or wi-fi connection to access a remote, studio supported web portal where exclusive content and previews can be downloaded directly to the BD player. BD-Live features include:
- Put Yourself In The Film: Join The Fight! - Upload your photo, become a trooper and insert yourself into key scenes in the film using BD-Live. (Blu-Ray only)
- Additional featurettes and more! (Blu-Ray only)
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/sst-3.jpg)
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Lord of the Rings Trilogy headed to Blu-ray?
Now that we've already got one particular trilogy on our BD radar, it's only fitting that yet another blockbuster trio hit the screen. According to PSU, Peter Jackson has stated outrightly that he is "working on a Blu-ray version of the Lord of the Rings Trilogy with Warner Bros. at the moment," and although he confessed that a release date wasn't available, we are told not to expect it anytime this year. Reportedly, the comments were divulged while chatting about the forthcoming Hobbit, and while we're undoubtedly stoked to hear the news, we can't help but feel somewhat crushed that Profile 4.0 may very well be out and about before this collection ever lands. [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family]
http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/05/28/lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-headed-to-blu-ray/
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;D ONKYO TAKING THE BLU RAY ROUTE ;D
"Following its low-risk venture into HD DVD last year, Onkyo is now understandably going Blu-ray, with a new player, the DV-BD606, due later this year as part of a three-strong video player range.
Details of the new machine are sketchy, to say the least, but it looks like the first Onkyo BD offering will be a Profile 1.1 player.
The company is also expanding its packaged home cinema range with systems both with and without DVD player included, and with at least one being THX certified. It's also replacing its Award-winning micro system range with new models.
The existing CS-315, -515 and -715 will be replaced with -25 models, each having enhanced features, and the BR-925DAB will join the range later, offering hard disk recording and network capability.
The new systems will be complemented with a new iPod dock, the DS-A3, with a gloss black finish to match the iPod Touch and iPhone." (whathifi.com)
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Jack Ryan Gets Split for Blu-ray
Paramount Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'Patriot Games' and 'Sum of All Fears' to Blu-ray on July 29th. Originally planned to be released as part of the four-movie 'Jack Ryan Collection', these two titles will be released separately. No technical specs have been announced for either title at this time.
'Patriot Games' will include the featurette "Patriot Games Up Close" and the theatrical trailer. No special features have been announced for 'Sum of All Fears' at this time.
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Transformers Blu-ray Gets Detailed
Paramount Home Entertainment has revealed the specs for the upcoming Blu-ray release of Michael Bay's blockbuster hit 'Transformers', due to hit store shelves on September 2nd. On this two disc special edition, video will be presented in 2.35:1 1080p AVC and be accompanied by both a 5.1 PCM and 5.1 Dolby TrueHD lossless soundtracks.
Extras for the release are massive, and include:
Commentary: Commentary by Director Michael Bay
Featurette: OUR WORLD:
Featurette: The Story Sparks HD
Featurette: Human Allies HD
Featurette: I Fight Giant Robots HD
Featurette: Battleground HD
Featurette: THEIR WAR:
Featurette: Rise of the Robots HD
Featurette: Autobots Roll Out HD
Featurette: Decepticons Strike HD
Featurette: Inside the AllSpark HD
Featurette: Transformers Tech Inspector (TBD) HD
Trailers: TRAILERS (will play after the feature via a menu)
Trailers: Iron Man Trailer HD
Featurette: MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE
Trailers: Transformers Teaser Trailer HD
Trailers: Rise of the Autobots HD
Other: Transformers H.U.D. (Heads Up Display)
Other: BD-Live Features (TBD)
Featurette: From Script to Sand: The Skorponok Desert Attack HD
Featurette: Concepts HD
Trailers: Trailers HD:
Trailers: Teaser Trailer 1 HD
Trailers: Theatrical Trailer 2 HD
Trailers: Theatrical Trailer 4 HD
Easter Eggs: EASTER EGGS:
Easter Eggs: Michael Bay Cameo HD
Easter Eggs: Girl in Dress HD
Easter Eggs: Bay Bot HD
Easter Eggs: Casting Mojo HD
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Beowulf Announced for Blu-ray
Paramount Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring the computer animated blockbuster 'Beowulf' to Blu-ray on July 29th. As one of the last major films to be released on the now defunct HD DVD format, this release is highly anticipated as a Blu-ray. Video will be presented at 2.35:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack.
Extras for the release include:
Featurette: A Hero's Journey: The Making of Beowulf
Featurette: In The Volume
Featurette: The Volume
Featurette: "T" Time
Featurette: What is the E.O.G.?
Featurette: Lay of the Land
Featurette: Givin' Props
Featurette: Scanners
Featurette: Stunts and Rigs
Featurette: Plan of Attack
Featurette: Fight Me
Featurette: Baby It's Cold Inside
Featurette: Beasts of Burden
Featurette: The Origins of Beowulf
Featurette: Creating the Ultimate Beowulf
Featurette: The Art of Beowulf
Featurette: A Conversation with Robert Zemeckis
Additional Scenes: Grendel Runs Towards Herot
Additional Scenes: Hrothgar Awakened by Unferth
Additional Scenes: Scylding's watch Escorts Beowulf
Additional Scenes: Wealthow Shows Beowulf the Sundial
Additional Scenes: Beowulf Boasts to the People of Herot
Additional Scenes: Beowulf Hammers Grendel's Arm
Additional Scenes: Celebration and Seduction
Additional Scenes: Wulfgar Greets Beowulf at the Stockade
Additional Scenes: Beowulf's Day Unferth Finds the Horn
Additional Scenes: Cain on the Barrows (Original)
Additional Scenes: Cain on the Barrows (Alternate)
Theatrical Trailer
Coffee Break with John Malkovich Easter Egg
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Dreamworks Plans Madagascar/Shrek the Third for Blu-ray
Dreamworks has announced that they plan to release the two animated features 'Madagascar' and 'Shrek the Third' for Blu-ray on September 16th. No technical specs or special features have been announced for the release as of yet, but we expect to hear more as we get closer to the release date. No special features have been announced for 'Madagascar', but 'Shrek the Third' will mirror the HD DVD release.
Extras for 'Shrek the Third' include:
Shrek's Guide to Parenthood - Donkey, Puss in Boots, Pinocchio and Gingy offer their priceless parenting tips for Shrek & Fiona!
Meet the Cast & Behind-the-Scenes featurette
Lost Scenes
Tech of Shrek
Hilarious Donkey Dance music video
Big Green Goofs
DreamWorks Animation Video Jukebox
DreamWorks Kids - This Way to Play - Fun and creative bonus features for kids, including:
Learn to Donkey Dance: You've seen his video, now Donkey teaches the moves
How to Be Green: Shrek and Donkey give kids fun and simple tips on how to be environmentally friendly every day (from conserving water and energy to building your very own worm farm)
Merlin's Magic Crystal Ball: Let Merlin answer all of your deepest questions
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iT'S COMING!!! ;)
'Transformers' Blasts to Blu-ray This September
Wed May 28, 2008 at 02:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3576/original.jpeg)
Confirming the rumors, Paramount has set a September Blu-ray touchdown for 'Transformers,' which will hit the format with high-res audio and BD-Live-enabled content.
Following months of online speculation, Paramount has set a September 2 bow for the Michael Bay blockbuster, nearly a year after the HD DVD version became that format's top-seller with its home theater-ready video and audio and bevy of bonus content.
Looking to match the previous high-def release, the Blu-ray will include the same standard set of extras, among them an audio commentary with Bay, a pair of four-part documentaries ("Our World," "Their War"), the "From Script to Sand: The SKORPONOK Desert Attack" featurette, a "Concepts" still gallery, theatrical trailers, and multiple easter eggs.
Although Paramount has yet to detail whether all of the exclusive content found on the HD DVD (including PIP, a GPS tracking feature and more) will be included on the Blu-ray, the studio has confirmed the release will be BD-Live-enabled with exact details to be announced soon.
Tech specs include 1080p video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio -- a bump up from the non-high-res audio Dolby Digital track found on the HD DVD.
Suggested retail for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.98.
*Artist rendition
(http://tinyurl.com/6s29nw)
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iT'S COMING!!! ;)
'Transformers' Blasts to Blu-ray This September
*Artist rendition
(http://tinyurl.com/6s29nw)
Another double dip title! ;D
5.1 Dolby TrueHD and 5.1 LPCM :o Wala ba 5.1 DTS HD MA dyan para kumpleto? ;D
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I was hoping they can do a better cover art this time unlike the HD DVD which looks sooo PLAIN. :P
Might double-dip as well.... ;D
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hmmmm, amazon posted a different cover art for the transformers BD:
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/transformersBD.jpg)
Well, let's just hope that they do provide a different cover for the BD release ... :D
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+1 I hope they do have a better cover for the BD release. I already have the HDDVD version but am still very much hot on getting a BD title (well, regardless of the cover actually ;D )
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Amazon Offers Blu-ray Bundles at 45 Percent Savings
Thu May 29, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
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In their latest spin on Blu-ray savings, Amazon is offering a variety of bundled Blu-ray titles at up to 45 percent off.
There's no word on how long this special offer will last, but adding a twist to their current Blu-ray promotions, the online retailer is now offering an assortment of 11 bundles, comprised of a total of 33 films, all at steep discounts.
The selections run the gamut from war films (Patton, Battle of Britain, The Longest Day) to Sci-Fi (I, Robot, Independence Day, The Day After Tomorrow) to Comedy (Mrs. Doubtfire, The Simpsons Movie, Juno) and even family films (Night at the Museum, Ice Age, Alvin and the Chipmunks). Titles are mixed and matched into various bundles, and while many of these title are currently available via Amazon's Summer Blu-ray Blowout others are only available via the bundled sets, so enthusiasts may want to poke around the selections to see which combinations work best for their collections.
Link here > Amazon Bundles (http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html/?docId=1000232811&tag=panandscathed-20)
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Blue Underground Announces Initial Title Slate (http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/blueunderground.gif)
Blue Underground has given a glimpse of its first Blu-ray releases, ranging from animation to horror and science fiction. Known for going to great lengths to feature remastered transfers from original vault elements, the company promises to use the best available technical specs on their BD output, as is detailed on a slickly-edited two minute promotional video on Blue Underground's web site.
Full 1080p video encoding, 7.1 DTS-HD MA and 7.1 Dolby TrueHD audio, D-Box Motion Code and extensive extras will be featured on 50GB dual layered discs. Announced titles include -
# The Final Countdown
# L'uccello dalle piume di cristallo (aka The Bird With The Crystal Plumage)
# La sindrome di Stendhal (aka The Stendhal Syndrome)
# Maniac (1980)
# Vigilante (1983)
# Fire & Ice
# Dead & Buried (1981)
# Due occhi diabolici (aka Two Evil Eyes)
# Uncle Sam (1997) (bluray.com)
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/blue-underground-titles.jpg)
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Toshiba knows no shame, plans to release super-resolution DVD player
(http://img133.imageshack.us/img133/8900/53008toshibagraveps6.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
Nothing too notable here -- just that Toshiba is apparently fixing to unveil a brand new DVD player in the age of Blu-ray that will be "capable of producing high-resolution images from regular DVDs." As you're laughing heartily, ponder this: are we looking at a simple upconverting DVD player? Or will that Cell-based SpursEngine chip bring "super-resolution" to a standalone deck? According to unnamed sources cited by Daily Yomiuri Online, the planned release "signifies an effort to recover from a humiliating setback suffered in March after announcing its decision to withdraw from its HD DVD business." We really cannot fathom why Tosh would even dream of fighting BD with souped-up DVD, but reportedly, it plans on marketing the unit "as a device with which consumers can enjoy a broader array of content than is available in the Blu-ray format." Congratulations Toshiba -- we thought it couldn't get any lamer than HD VMD, and you handily proved us wrong.
http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/05/30/toshiba-knows-no-shame-plans-to-release-super-resolution-dvd-pl/
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Toshiba knows no shame, plans to release super-resolution DVD player
Maybe it's their last attempt to save face? :P
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I think they're targeting the market who's still holding onto their DVD's (and that's a lot)
and Yes, they're also trying to save face
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hmmm, Toshiba maybe trying to "save face" after raising the white flag in the "format war".
There is also a rumor that Toshiba is going blue ... Its marketing arm in Brazil (Society Eletromercantil Paulista) or Semp Toshiba, was rumored (as early as April '08 [daw]) to be peddling a blu ray device .... ;)
Nobody gave ball, but yesterday the SempToshiba - national arm of Toshiba - presented its Media Center with a peculiarity: the unit has a player capable of reproducing and recording videos on Blu-ray! For those who do not remember, a few months ago, Toshiba lost the fight with Sony, the Blu-ray when he was facing the HD-DVD.
In addition to this curiosity, the media center has an Intel Core 2 Duo 6300, 1.86 GHz, up to 4 GB of RAM and HD with a capacity ranging from 160 GB to 750 GB. Também tem Wi-Fi 802.11 beg, três portas HDMI, seis portas USB, VGA, DVI, S-Vídeo e Windows Vista Home Premium. It also has Wi-Fi 802.11 beg, three HDMI ports, six USB ports, VGA, DVI, S-Video and Windows Vista Home Premium.
here's the link .... http://google.com/translate?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techguru.com.br%2FMedia-center-SempToshiba-Blu-Ray.htm&langpair=pt
A look at the "devise" ..... ;) :P ;)
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/toshibabluray.jpg)
IMHO, if you can't beat 'em, then join 'em ;D
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Nielsen VideoScan High-Def market share for week ending May 25th, 2008
(http://img61.imageshack.us/img61/8206/nielsen052508nn6.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
Oh what a difference a new release makes to the Nielsen VideoScan charts courtesy of Home Media Magazine. The National Treasure series helped excel Blu to a 7% share this week, which is the second highest we've seen since HMM started tracking Blu-ray's share compared to DVD. The Nic Cage movies took all three of the top spots on the Blu-ray chart, leaving every other title in the dust by a large margin. But while Book of Secrets may have outsold any other Blu-ray title by almost 4 to 1, it only managed a 6.98% share of the overall title's sales when compared to DVD. Although Blu-ray had a great week this week with a 54.94% increase over last, we still can't help but to harp on the fact that 10 of the top 20 DVD titles aren't available on Blu. The market share per title chart is back this week (after the jump) and it's very obvious that Blu makes up for not having the same new releases by selling catalog titles like V for Vendetta and Twister, with the number one title on both the DVD and the Blu-ray top 20, is the number 20th in regards to Blu-ray market share. As for next week, there is no way Blu-ray can sustain these numbers with only Rambo, but the week after should be really interesting considering how many movies are due to be released on Blu on the same day.
(http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/7579/nielsenlist052508qv9.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
(http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/5518/nielsenshare052508qi5.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
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Warner Announces Lost Boys: The Tribe Blu-ray
Warner Home Video has announced that they will bring 'Lost Boys: The Tribe' to Blu-ray on July 29th, day-and-date with the DVD release. This sequel to the cult classic 'Lost Boys' stars Angus Sutherland, Kiefer Sutherland's younger brother, and a pair of Corey's (Feldman and Haim) to complete the 80's vibe. Video will be presented as 2.40:1 1080p VC-1 accompanied by a Dolby Digital soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* Action Junkies: Extreme Sportslike Stune Choreography
* Edgar Frog's Guide to Coming Back Alive
* Alternate Endings
* All-new Remix Music Video of Cry Little Sister by G Tom Mac
* 3 Yeah Whatever Music Videos: Downfall, Hell is Full, It's Over Now
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/lostboys.jpg)
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A very attractive Amazon Gold Box offering... ;)
(http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/goldbox/events/high-def-week-gb_hd._V256351217_.gif)
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51mQj%2B9mR2L._AA165_.jpg)
Die Hard Collection (Die Hard/ Die Hard 2: Die Harder/ Die Hard with a Vengeance/ Live Free or Die Hard)...
This Blu-ray disc collection is a must-have for any high-definition movie library. The set includes the original plus "Die Hard 2: Die Harder", "Die Hard with a Vengeance" and the most recent film, "Live Free or Die Hard".
List Price: $129.98
Yesterday's Price: $90.95
Today's Discount: - $33.96
Gold Box Price: $56.99 (56% off)
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Sony Announces Four Action Flicks for August
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring the action films 'Maximum Risk', 'Half Past Dead', '7 Seconds', and 'XXX: State of the Union' to Blu-ray on August 12th. Very little has been announced for any of these titles, but we have been able to compile some information about these upcoming releases.
The Jean-Claude Van Damme film 'Maximum Risk' will be presented in 2.40:1 1080p AVC and features a Dolby TrueHD soundtrack. No extras have been announced at this time.
'Half Past Dead', featuring Steven Seagal, will have video presented in 1.85:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a Dolby TrueHD soundtrack. Extras include commentary with writer/director Don Michael Paul, deleted scenes, and the featurette "The Making of Half Past Dead".
The Wesley Snipes film '7 Seconds' will be presented in 1.85:1 1080p AVC with a Dolby TrueHD soundtrack. No special features have been announced at this time.
And finally, 'XXX: State of the Union' will be presented in 2.40:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a Dolby TrueHD audio track. No extras for this release have been announced at this time, but they should mirror the previous DVD release. (bluray.com)
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Nightmare Before Christmas Gets Blu-ray Date
Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring Tim Burton's claymation classic 'Nightmare Before Christmas' to Blu-ray on August 26th in a collector's edition form. No technical specs have been announced at this time, but you can expect the similar 1080p AVC and PCM treatment that Disney gives the majority of their titles.
Extras for this release include:
* Audio commentary with Tim Burton, director Henry Selick and composer Danny Elfman
* An original Tim Burton poem, narrated by Christopher Lee
* A tour of Disneyland's Haunted Mansion ride
* Behind-the-scenes look at the filming of Nightmare Before Christmas
* Tim Burton's short film "Vincent"
Both the Blu-ray and DVD release will also receive a digital copy of the film, which Disney is calling "DisneyFile". Exclusive to the Blu-ray release will be a introduction from Tim Burton (bluray.com)
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/nighmare-before-christmas.jpg)
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Maybe it's their last attempt to save face? :P
question is, what kind of support do they expect from the studios plus the consumers?
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Sale-ing into Blu: 11 milion Sold & Transformers Coming
The world just keeps getting more Blu as the end of the format war has led to consumers jumping into high-def discs with both feet.
More than 11 million hi-def Blu-ray movies have been sold so far, according to data compiled by the Redhill Group for Home Media Magazine, and that's even before the potentially biggest Blu-ray title to date hits the market on September 2: "Transformers."
Projections based on preliminary data show that Blu-ray sales through May have already surpassed sales for all of 2007.
Blu-ray software sales in the first four months of this year more than quadrupled from the same period last year, climbing to 11 million since inception.
In an indication that the surrender of HD DVD had the overall effect everyone had hoped for in sparking the average consumer to feel comfortable jumping into the high-def market, this year's Blu-ray software sales through April are more than triple the number of sales of Blu-ray and HD DVD combined during the same period last year.
To further illustrate the point, consumers are increasingly choosing Blu-ray over DVD when new releases are available in both formats. For example, a year ago each new top 10 release mostly generated only 1% - 2% of sales from Blu-ray, with a couple titles collecting as much as 5% on Blu-ray.
This year in the first quarter, the top three Blu-ray titles, "I Am Legend," "3:10 to Yuma" and "No Country For Old Men," saw 8% - 10% of their sales in the Blu-ray format. Catalog Blu-ray titles that were also in the top 10, such as "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End," "300," "Planet Earth: The Complete Collection," and "Casino Royale," saw overall DVD/Blu-ray sales jump to 18% - 28% for the Blu-ray versions of those titles during the first quarter.
The surge will no doubt continue with today's official announcement from Paramount that "Transformers" will be coming to Blu-ray on September 2. A slew of additional heavyweight new and classic titles begins to hit Blu-ray this week with "Cloverfield" and Warner's "Dirty Harry" collection and continues next month with "Top Gun" and special editions of Batman and Tom Clancy Jack Ryan movies and the "Starship Troopers" trilogy. Disney weighs in strong this fall with their first animated classic on Blu-ray October 7 in the most elaborate BD Live format yet on "Sleeping Beauty," followed by the first of a groundbreaking new series of Disc Exclusive computer-animated movies, "Tinker Bell" on Oct. 28.
http://www.hollywoodinhidef.com/blog_detail.php?id=201
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Lord of the Rings Trilogy headed to Blu-ray?
Now that we've already got one particular trilogy on our BD radar, it's only fitting that yet another blockbuster trio hit the screen. According to PSU, Peter Jackson has stated outrightly that he is "working on a Blu-ray version of the Lord of the Rings Trilogy with Warner Bros. at the moment," and although he confessed that a release date wasn't available, we are told not to expect it anytime this year. Reportedly, the comments were divulged while chatting about the forthcoming Hobbit, and while we're undoubtedly stoked to hear the news, we can't help but feel somewhat crushed that Profile 4.0 may very well be out and about before this collection ever lands. [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family]
http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/05/28/lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-headed-to-blu-ray/
LOTR trilogy in Bluray? I'm really looking forward to this as a dream come true for bluray collectors. Its definitely a must have.
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World's first Blu-ray music only disc announced
2 June 2008 11:08 by Dave "Davedough" Horvath
TrondheimSolistene (The Trondheim Soloists) is one of Norway's most exciting young ensembles and they're celebrating their 20th anniversary with a recording that is said will surpass anything you've ever heard before in sheer sound quality. They will be bringing their recording to eager listeners on the world's very first Blu-ray music disc. With the sheer capacity for incredible sound sampling, the developers of this disc are boasting that every instrument in the ensemble is so clearly placed in the sound that you can actually envision each individual musician playing. The recording itself is set in the Selbu church in Norway, for its acoustic nature and offers a distinct, unique quality.
DIVERTIMENTI, the name of the recording, is produced by Lindberg Lyd and released by 2L, a Grammy nominated record company known internationally for its audiophile quality. 2L previously released TrondheimSolistene's MOZART recording which was declared a record to die for by Stereophile Magazine. The magazine itself has received a Norwegian recording industry Spellemann prize. Additionally, the company is releasing a hybrid SACD coupled with the Blu-ray music only disc to offer multiple options for optimal listening pleasure.
The hybrid SACD is 5.1 Surround + Stereo and produced in Digital eXtreme Definition and comes on a normal compact disc. The Blu-ray Exclusive High Definition Music disc boasts the following features,
2.0 LPCM 24Bit/192 kHz
5.1 LPCM 24Bit/192 kHz
5.1 DTS HD Master Audio 24 Bit/192 kHz
5.1 Dolby True HD 42 Bit/192 kHz
5.1 Doly Digital 48kHz
Fully compatible with the Sony Playstation 3.
http://www.afterdawn.com/news/archive/14321.cfm (http://www.afterdawn.com/news/archive/14321.cfm)
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Report: Universal Plotting 'Back to the Future' Blu-ray Release :D
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/6/6014/original.jpeg)
'Back to the Future' fans got a sneak peek this past weekend at an apparently in-the-works Blu-ray release of the '80s favorite.
As first reported by the fansite BTTF.com, 'Future' producer Bob Gale surprised fans at a special screening near Orlando with a new digital remaster of the flick, which he said had been produced for an eventual release on Blu-ray.
"What you're going to be seeing today is the digital master for the upcoming high-definition Blu-ray version of 'Back to the Future,'" Gale told the crowd. "I don't know when it's coming out yet, but I was involved in the mastering of this tape, so I can tell you that it looks absolutely beautiful!"
Gale also spoke to potential supplemental features on a Blu-ray version of the trilogy, saying only that never-before-seen bonus materials may appear, though he stopped short of offering any specifics
High-deft Digest
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Blue Underground Adds D-Box Support(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/blueunderground.gif)
D-Box Technologies and Blue Underground have jointly announced that Blue Underground, who recently announced its first wave of Blu-ray titles, has licensed the right to use D-Box motion code on their upcoming Blu-ray releases. The first Blu-ray title from Blue Underground to use the technology will be the upcoming release of 'The Final Countdown'.
William Lustig, President of Blue Underground commented, "We are quite impressed by the potential of what we have seen. We really think the unique features provided by the D-BOX's technology will provide us with an interesting marketing angle in the re-release of popular movies in the high definition Blu-ray format".
D-Box motion code, when combined with D-Box equipment, provides a unique viewing experience where your seat reacts to the images on screen. The majority of major Hollywood studios have also licenced the technology, and include it on may of their releases. (bluray.com)
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http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=10039674
(http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/1032/ps3as0.th.jpg) (http://img169.imageshack.us/my.php?image=ps3as0.jpg)
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A follow up article to the news posted above on N.B.C.
Disney Unwraps 'Nightmare Before Christmas' Specs
Tue Jun 03, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/6/6023/original.jpeg)
Full specs are in for 'Nightmare Before Christmas,' which is due to hit Blu-ray this Summer with hours of all-new bonus material, including an exclusive introduction from Tim Burton.
As we've previously reported, late last week Disney set a August 26 Blu-ray arrival (day-and-date with a new standard DVD re-issue) for the Tim Burton holiday masterpiece.
The studio has now issued the full press announcement, with tech specs set to include 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video (1.66:1), English Dolby TrueHD 7.1 Surround and Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround audio (both 48kHz/24-bit), and English, French and Spanish subtitles.
Supplements new to both the Blu-ray and DVD re-issue include audio commentary with Burton, director Henry Selick and composer Danny Elfman, the "What's This? Jack's Haunted Mansion Holiday Tour" interactive tour of Disneyland's Holiday Haunted Mansion, a "Tim Burton Original Poem" narrated by Christopher Lee, and "Introduction To Frankenweenie!" (a new un-cut version of Burton's classic short).
Extras carried over from the previous standard DVD special edition release include "The Making of Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas" documentary, the "The Worlds of Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas" featurette, deleted scenes, a storyboard-to-film comparison, Burton's complete original short film 'Vincent,' and theatrical trailers and posters.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray release will be a special introduction by Burton.
Finally, as previously reported -- in a first for Disney -- both the Blu-ray and the standard DVD will include a Digital Copy of the film (dubbed "DisneyFile") for use on portable video devices.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.99.
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Top Gun Blu ray w/ DTS HD MA 6.1 and a lot of special goodies ;D ;D ;D
(http://img225.imageshack.us/img225/7140/433290tl1.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
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Top Gun Blu ray w/ DTS HD MA 6.1 and a lot of special goodies ;D ;D ;D
double-dipping on this title ;D ... can't wait for July 29 ....
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Blu-ray Consumer Awareness Approaches 50% ;D ;) ;D
A new consumer study said 45% of HDTV owners claim to be familiar with next-generation packaged media Blu-ray, up from 35% in June 2007.
The study by Port Washington, N.Y.-based The NPD Group said 6% of consumers surveyed intended to purchase a Blu-ray player.
“With HDTV now in approximately 40 million U.S. households, that percentage translates to a pool of almost 4 million potential BD player buyers,” said Russ Crupnick, entertainment industry analyst for NPD.
Among Blu-ray consumers, a majority cited the format’s “leading edge technology” and “superior viewing experience” as primary reasons for purchase. About 80% said they would purchase upcoming movies on Blu-ray instead of standard DVD.
This tally was slightly more than double the percentage of Sony PlayStation 3 owners (43%) who said they viewed Blu-ray movies on a PS3 at least once a month.
“The door is open for studios to feed the consumer’s appetite for Blu-ray content, and we expect sales to increase, as prices for hardware and software moderate in the coming months,” Crupnick said. “Even so, it will take a concerted effort by manufacturers and retailers to ratchet awareness even further and convince all of those potential buyers of the superiority of Blu-ray versus standard DVD.”
Indeed, the study said Blu-ray manufacturers and studios faced ongoing challenges as many consumers said they were satisfied with standard DVD and considered the prices of Blu-ray players and movies too expensive.
http://www.homemediamagazine.com/news/html/breaking_article.cfm?article_id=12872
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Top Gun Blu ray w/ DTS HD MA 6.1 and a lot of special goodies ;D ;D
Great! I haven't got this in my dvd yet. Good timing! :D
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Great! I haven't got this in my dvd yet. Good timing! :D
You'll surely enjoy this title, Paul ... with great soundtrack too ... ;D
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MY TWO CENTS - 6/4/08 - by Digital Bits editor Bill Hunt
Meanwhile, Paramount's Beowulf Blu-ray Disc (due 7/29), will include the BeoWulf in the Volume interactive viewing option, 16 featurettes (A Hero's Journey: The Making of Beowulf, Beasts of Burden: Designing the Creatures of Beowulf, The Volume, "T" Time, What is the E.O.G.?, Lay of the Land, Givin' Props, Scanners, Stunts and Rigs, Plan of Attack, Fight Me, Baby It’s Cold Inside, The Origins of Beowulf, Creating the Ultimate Beowulf, The Art of Beowulf and A Conversation with Robert Zemeckis), deleted scenes, theatrical trailers and Easter eggs. All the video features will be full HD. Audio is Dolby TrueHD 5.1 and Dolby Digital Plus 5.1.
Also, on the Jack Ryan front, Paramount is officially bringing all four films - The Sum of All Fears, The Hunt for Red October, Patriot Games and Clear and Present Danger - to Blu-ray Disc on 7/29. We're waiting on official details, but we do know that the Patriot Games Blu-ray will include the Patriot Games Up Close featurette (SD) and the theatrical trailer (HD), with English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 as well as French and Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1 audio. We suspect the other films will include all of the previous DVD extras that were listed (but left off) the HD-DVD versions. This would include the Beneath the Surface featurette, audio commentary by director John McTiernan and the theatrical trailer on The Hunt for Red October, the Behind the Danger featurette and the theatrical trailer on Clear and Present Danger, and the two commentaries, 2 featurettes (The Making of The Sum of All Fears and Creating Reality: The Visual Effects of The Sum of All Fears) and the theatrical trailers on... yes, you guessed it... The Sum of All Fears.
What's more, whereas the HD-DVD version of Top Gun from Paramount was movie-only, the Blu-ray version (also 7/29) will be the full Top Gun: Special Collector's Edition with virtually all of the 2-disc DVD extras, including audio commentary by producer Jerry Bruckheimer, director Tony Scott, Jack Epps, Jr. and naval experts, the 6-part Danger Zone: The Making of Top Gun documentary, multi-angle storyboards with optional commentary by Tony Scott, 3 featurettes (Best of the Best: Inside the Real Top Gun, Behind-the-Scenes and Survival Training), interviews with Tom Cruise, TV spots and 4 music videos (Kenny Loggins' Danger Zone, Berlin's Take My Breath Away, Loverboy's Heaven in Your Eyes and Harold Faltermeyer and Steve Stevens' Top Gun Anthem). All the features are standard definition. Audio on the Blu-ray will be English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 and DTS-MA 6.1, with French and Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1. Isn't it amazing how the Blu-ray version has room for all these extras and the HD-DVD didn't? I'll tell you, it sure is gratifying to see Paramount getting back on track with their high-def releases.
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Rolling Stones to 'Shine a Light' on Blu-ray
Tue Jun 03, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
(http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/images/post/6/6015/original.jpeg)
Rock legends the Rolling Stones will make their Blu-ray debut in late July with the acclaimed concert film, 'Shine a Light.'
Directed by Martin Scorsese, 'Shine a Light' earned rave reviews and big grosses during its theatrical run last year, including an IMAX release that broke house records for a concert film.
Distributed by Paramount Home Entertainment, the studio has set a July 29 street date for the Blu-ray, day-and-date with the DVD.
Confirmed extras include a making-of featurette, plus four music videos ("Undercover Of The Night," "Paint It Black," "Little T and A," "I'm Free").
Tech specs have yet to be revealed, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.95.
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Ey last time I checked this is still a bd AND hddvd News thread. ;) With respect to this, lemme just quickly run down the Release Dates for HD DVD Discs to get everybody on board.
June 24, 2008
Disco Pigs (Vanguard Cinema)
Freedom: 6 (Bandai Visual)
Obviously, HD-DVD releases are grinding to a screeching halt. The last two above are the scheduled ones to be released this June and all other previously declared releases have resorted to the 'release dates pending' clause. Euphemism at its finest.
Just as a recap, there were three release bursts last May with two titles each.
May 27, 2008
P.S. I Love You (Warner)
Twister (Warner)
May 20, 2008
Ocean's Eleven (Warner)
Ocean's Twelve (Warner)
May 13, 2008
One Missed Call (Warner)
Sublime (Warner)
Well...time ta clear the stage boys, fat lady's about to sing. :-\
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Well...time ta clear the stage boys, fat lady's about to sing. :-\
A mighty song sing she will! :D
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June 24, 2008
Disco Pigs (Vanguard Cinema)
Freedom: 6 (Bandai Visual)
Nobody seemed to have notice the rather sad footnote to another failed format. Parang many are still upset that they would rather forget the whole thing...
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Really feel sorry for HDDVD. On the other hand, the Blu camp just keeps on racking things up in the pipeline...
Rumor Mill: MGM Readying Bond Titles For Blu-ray Release? (UPDATED)
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/6/6035/original.jpeg)
According to late word from Fox France, 'Goldeneye' and 'Tomorrow Never Dies' will not be among their first six Bond BD releases. Instead, they've been replaced by 'From Russia with Love' and 'For Your Eyes Only.' We've updated the titles listed in the post below accordingly.
The French release of six Bond flicks on Blu-ray this November has hopes high that the same films may find their way to US store shelves before Christmas.
The French website filmsactu.com is reporting today that MGM (via its parent distributor Fox) will release a half-dozen Bond titles on Blu-ray in France on November 5, 2008. The six flicks are reported to be 'Dr No,' 'Thunderball,' 'Live or Let Die,' 'From Russia With Love,' 'Die Another Day' and 'For Your Eyes Only.'
As for the fourteen other unreleased Bond titles ('Casino Royale' is the only 007 flick currently available on Blu-ray), rumor has it that they're planned for release concurrent with the BD release of 'Quantum of Solace,' sometime in the first half of 2009.
Though the French release of these titles doesn't necessarily mean they will also hit shelves stateside, generally Fox/MGM's release of such tentpole titles in France happens concurrently with (or is preceded by) a US release, heightening expectations that a US announcement could be on its way.
We should stress that with no official word from Fox or MGM stateside, all discussion of a US release of the Bond catalogue is purely speculative at this point. Needless to say, we'll keep you posted when and if any official information comes in. Stay tuned...
Source: HighDef Digest
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Direct-to-Video 'Scorpion King 2' Headed to Blu-ray
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/scorp2-1.jpg)
Universal will debut their first direct-to-video Blu-ray premiere this August, with the release of the action prequel 'The Scorpion King 2.'
Detailing events that take place before the original film, 'The Scorpion King 2: Rise of a Warrior' sees TV star Michael Copon taking over the title role from Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson in what Universal has said is its highest-budgeted direct-to-video production yet.
The studio will premiere 'Scorpion King 2' on Blu-ray August 19, day-and-date with the DVD. (It follows the Blu-ray debut of the original 'The Scorpion King,' which Universal previously announced for a July 22 release.)
There are no tech specs yet for the Blu-ray, but extras shared with the standard DVD are expected to include six featurettes ("The Making of The Scorpion King 2: Rise of a Warrior," "Fighting Like an Akkadian," "Becoming Sargon," "Beauty and Brawn," "Creating a Whole New World," "The Visual Effects of The Scorpion King 2: Rise of a Warrior"), deleted scenes and a gag reel.
Universal has set a suggested list price of $39.98 for the Blu-ray.
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All four Jack Ryan movies will go Blu on July 29th
(http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/7998/redoctober2cf74aaq2.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
There are some times in our life when being wrong is awesome, and when we told you last week that only two of the Jack Ryan movies would be available on Blu, it was one of those times. Usually the first movie in a franchise is the best, and that is true in this case with The Hunt for Red October, which will be available in HD along with Clear and Present Danger at the end of July. We are however concerned that no details have been announced yet, as this title has seen its fair share of issues and we'd feel much better if Paramount gave us reason to believe all the issues were ironed out.
http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/06/06/all-four-jack-ryan-movies-will-go-blu-on-july-29th/
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Fox to Unleash 'Omen' Franchise on Blu-ray this September
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/omen.jpg)
In an early announce to retailers, Fox has revealed plans to bring the classic chiller 'The Omen' to Blu-ray this September, along with a four-film 'Omen' box set.
One of the biggest horror hits of the '70s (and the movie that single-handedly eradicated "Damien" from baby-naming books), 'The Omen' is set to hit Blu-ray on September 9.
On the same day, Fox will also scare up 'The Omen: The Collection,' a four-film box set featuring the original 'The Omen,' its two sequels 'Damien: Omen II' and 'The Final Conflict,' plus the 2006 remake 'The Omen: 666' (which Fox previously released as a stand-alone Blu-ray in 2006.)
As Fox has yet to issue the press announce for the 'Omen' films, there are no tech specs or supplemental details as of yet. However, previous DVD releases have featured extensive extras, so we can only hope that some (if not all) of the same materials will find their way to the Blu-ray. As always, we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail for the single-disc version of 'The Omen' has been set at $39.98, while 'The Omen: The Collection' has been priced at $129.98. (highdefdigest.com)
SPECS :
Disc 1: OMEN 666 BLU RAY
Disc 2: OMEN BLU RAY WIDE SCREEN
**Commentary by Director Richard Donner & Editor Stuart Baird
**Commentary by Director Richard Donner & Brian Helgeland (Screenwriter of Man on Fire)
**Commentary by Film Historians Lem Dobbs, Nick Redman and Jeff Bond
**The Omen Revelations Bonus View with Trivia Track
**Introduction by Director Richard Donner from 2006
**Deleted Scene:Dog Attack with Comentary by Director Richard Donner and Brian Helgeland
**666: The Omen Revealed
**Screenwriters Notebook
**An Appreciation:Wes Craven on The Omen
**The Omen Legacy
**Curse or Coincidence
**Theatrical Trailer
**Still Gallery
Disc 3: OMEN 2: DAMIEN BLU RAY
**Commentary by Producer Harvey Berhard
**Theatrical Trailer
Disc 4: OMEN 3: THE FINAL CONFLICT BLU RAY
**Commentary by Director Graham Baker
**Theatrical Trailer
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Nielsen VideoScan High-Def market share for week ending June 1st, 2008
(http://img443.imageshack.us/img443/3043/nielsen0601083e6023bg6.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
Boy did we not see this one coming, as not only did Blu-ray make us look like an idiot when we predicted last week that "there is no way Blu-ray can sustain these numbers with only Rambo," but Blu set a personal best at 10 percent of the market on this week's Nielsen VideoScan charts courtesy of Home Media Magazine. Rambo really lead the way for Blu taking 12 percent of the titles sales from DVD, this is twice the share that the Blu version of National Treasure: Book of Secrets was able to muster last week. At the same time Rambo outsold Book of Secrets easily on Blu, while Rambo wasn't able to take the number one spot on the DVD charts. Next week is a big week for Blu-ray as there was a record number of releases, including many catalog titles that we expect to sell well, in addition there are a few new-er releases, that should help out. We're not sure if Blu-ray will take more than 10 percent of the market though, as we expect the trend of half of the top 20 DVDs to continue to not be available on Blu-ray for the foreseeable future.
(http://img441.imageshack.us/img441/2932/nielsenlist0601083e691cki9.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
(http://img184.imageshack.us/img184/5008/nielsenshare0601083e7a2wx5.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
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Rumor: Microsoft to announce Xbox 360 Blu-ray drive
It looks like all those rumors about Microsoft delivering a Blu-ray drive for the Xbox 360 might finally come true tomorrow. A tipster told CrunchGear that Microsoft is going to announce the Blu-ray drive for the Xbox 360 right before Apple’s annual WWDC, in an attempt to upstage Steve Job and his keynote.
The tipster wrote the following.
I‘ve got a close friend who works at Microsoft, previously with the HD-DVD division and now in the E&D division (Xbox, zune). I’m told MS will upstage Apple with a Monday 9am PDT announcement (1 hour before WWDC) via press release that the Xbox 360 will get Blu-Ray before Christmas. Price was “under the current Elite”, but i could get any more details.
If this is indeed true, it’ll put to rest the countless rumors surrounding Xbox 360’s Blu-ray drive. It seems like the natural step for them to take now that HD-DVD is nothing more than a distant memory and Blu-ray is here to stay. Both a system with a Blu-ray drive and an add-on for the Xbox 360 would no doubt boost sales for Blu.
http://www.crunchgear.com/2008/06/08/ms-to-release-blu-ray-drive-on-monday/
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Really feel sorry for HDDVD. On the other hand, the Blu camp just keeps on racking things up in the pipeline...
Rumor Mill: MGM Readying Bond Titles For Blu-ray Release? (UPDATED)
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/6/6035/original.jpeg)
According to late word from Fox France, 'Goldeneye' and 'Tomorrow Never Dies' will not be among their first six Bond BD releases. Instead, they've been replaced by 'From Russia with Love' and 'For Your Eyes Only.' We've updated the titles listed in the post below accordingly.
The French release of six Bond flicks on Blu-ray this November has hopes high that the same films may find their way to US store shelves before Christmas.
The French website filmsactu.com is reporting today that MGM (via its parent distributor Fox) will release a half-dozen Bond titles on Blu-ray in France on November 5, 2008. The six flicks are reported to be 'Dr No,' 'Thunderball,' 'Live or Let Die,' 'From Russia With Love,' 'Die Another Day' and 'For Your Eyes Only.'
As for the fourteen other unreleased Bond titles ('Casino Royale' is the only 007 flick currently available on Blu-ray), rumor has it that they're planned for release concurrent with the BD release of 'Quantum of Solace,' sometime in the first half of 2009.
Though the French release of these titles doesn't necessarily mean they will also hit shelves stateside, generally Fox/MGM's release of such tentpole titles in France happens concurrently with (or is preceded by) a US release, heightening expectations that a US announcement could be on its way.
We should stress that with no official word from Fox or MGM stateside, all discussion of a US release of the Bond catalogue is purely speculative at this point. Needless to say, we'll keep you posted when and if any official information comes in. Stay tuned...
Source: HighDef Digest
This I can't wait as you guys can see from my handle I'm a James Bond addict since I was a kid ;D I can watch these movies several times without gettting tired of it :)
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This I can't wait as you guys can see from my handle I'm a James Bond addict since I was a kid ;D I can watch these movies several times without gettting tired of it :)
same here ;D ;D ;D
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Direct-to-Video 'Scorpion King 2' Headed to Blu-ray
Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/6/6045/original.jpeg)
Universal will debut their first direct-to-video Blu-ray premiere this August, with the release of the action prequel 'The Scorpion King 2.'
Detailing events that take place before the original film, 'The Scorpion King 2: Rise of a Warrior' sees TV star Michael Copon taking over the title role from Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson in what Universal has said is its highest-budgeted direct-to-video production yet.
The studio will premiere 'Scorpion King 2' on Blu-ray August 19, day-and-date with the DVD. (It follows the Blu-ray debut of the original 'The Scorpion King,' which Universal previously announced for a July 22 release.)
There are no tech specs yet for the Blu-ray, but extras shared with the standard DVD are expected to include six featurettes ("The Making of The Scorpion King 2: Rise of a Warrior," "Fighting Like an Akkadian," "Becoming Sargon," "Beauty and Brawn," "Creating a Whole New World," "The Visual Effects of The Scorpion King 2: Rise of a Warrior"), deleted scenes and a gag reel.
Universal has set a suggested list price of $39.98 for the Blu-ray.
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Blu-ray adoption outpaces DVD
http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/blu-ray-adoption-outpaces-dvd
"Singulus has revealed that consumers are adopting Blu-ray faster than they did DVD, with the company having received 21 orders for Blu-ray dual-layer machines in the first quarter.
The information was revealed to shareholders at the technology manufacturer's Annual General Meeting of the Singulus Technologies in Frankfurt and directly contradicted claims by Microsoft's Robbie Bach that consumers were hesitant to upgrade to Blu-ray.
"This means that the orders for Blu-ray in the first year of the dual layer technology already by far exceeded the volume at the start of the DVD eleven years ago with 17 machines," said Stefan A Baustert, CEO of Singulus.
Blu-ray became the standard high definition format after Toshiba's decision to end its HD DVD business earlier this year. The announcement by Toshiba was then followed by Microsoft's decision to end production of the HD DVD player for Xbox 360. "
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WHAT CRITERIA DO STUDIOS CHOOSE BEFORE RELEASING TITLES IN BLURAY? ;D ;D ;D
From: soundandvisionmag.com
Doesn't it seem random, how some B-grade old flicks make it to Blu-ray first while classics wait in line? Here, five criteria studios use before giving a Blu the green light.
To the list of life's great mysteries — which already includes what's our purpose on earth, and how does Keanu Reeves keep getting work? — you can add one more: Just how in the name of 1080p do studios decide which titles to re-release on Blu-ray Disc?
The new releases are a no-brainer, but when it comes to the backcatalog, is there any rhyme or reason? Doesn't seem to be. After a two-year flirtation with HD DVD, Paramount recently came back to the Blu-ray fold and, with great fanfare, announced its first slate of titles, which included Bee Movie, The Spiderwick Chronicles, and . . . Face/Off?
One of the first titles Fox rolled out was The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen. Say what? Are these really the movies fans have been saving their allowances for? Sean Connery probably doesn't even want a copy of League, and he's in it.
That said, the studios do put a lot of research and effort into choosing Blu-ray titles. They'll eventually get around to releasing the bulk of their catalog, but for now, because the technology is relatively new and the transfer process so expensive, they have to be judicious with the release slate.
Here are the elements the studios are looking for:
1. Stuff blows up
Quite simply, the most important criterion for choosing a Blu-ray release is a film that will best exploit the benefits of a high-end home system. "You want sexy-looking stuff that is going to make your system scream," says Steve Feldstein, spokesperson for Fox Home Entertainment. That means a movie with striking visuals and cinematography, jaw-dropping special effects, and booming sound. More often than not, these are big action movies, like Face/Off or Twister — the latter, one of the first titles released on DVD that's now getting a Blu-ray release. These are also the movies that the early adopters of Blu-ray (who are generally male) enjoy. In short, Feldstein says that what all of the Blu-ray titles have in common is great imagery. "In the early days of the format, it's key. It certainly was with DVD and laserdisc," he says.
2. There's a sequel out now
With a new installment of a franchise currently in theaters, studios will often look to release previous films. That's why Fox put out the first Die Hard movies, as well as the original Alien vs. Predator.
3. The title has proven popular in the past
George Feltenstein, senior VP of marketing for Warner Bros., says, "Films that have had a prior sales success in other media demand our attention." If it was a big hit on DVD, it's more likely to get the Blu-ray treatment.
4. Fans have been clamoring for it
True, a write-in campaign by the three fans of Nail Gun Massacre probably won't get any results, but the studios say they do take customer feedback into consideration. "I've been hearing from [fans] for 20 years," Feldstein says. "The Internet makes it even more democratic. We absolutely listen to our customers. We're looking at a lot of different properties."
The staff at Warner Bros. gets asked constantly about when titles from their voluminous library of classics will get the Blu-ray treatment. Sit tight. Feltenstein says indispensable titles, such as Gone With the Wind, Casablanca and Ben-Hur, are on the way.
5. The master doesn't need much cleaning up
"If we have a good looking hi-def master available, that would get a title out sooner than another title that might need full restoration," Feldstein says. "So quality elements is definitely a determining factor." Restoration is obviously time-consuming and expensive, and it's easier for the studios to release films that don't require much.
Which is not to say they aren't paying to have films restored. John Lowry, founder of Lowry Digital Images, says his company is working on an ever-increasing number of "important" titles, in preparation for a Blu-ray release. The list includes a number from Fox and Paramount, though Lowry declined to name names. The good news is that Lowry is scanning from the original camera negatives, not a duplicate, which should make for the best image quality you can get. And isn't that why you plunked down hundreds of dollars for that Blu-ray player in the first place?
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Very interesting read JAQY
Hmmm... makes me wonder, I think they did not use this criteria when the PSP UMD was released because I remember one of the first titles released for the PSP was.........
Robin & Marian ???
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Very interesting read JAQY
Hmmm... makes me wonder, I think they did not use this criteria when the PSP UMD was released because I remember one of the first titles released for the PSP was.........
Robin & Marian ???
hahaha. Hope that they do provide a different set of criteria for PSP in future releases. ;)
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Rumor: Microsoft to announce Xbox 360 Blu-ray drive
Oh boy, MS AGAIN [arrgghhh!!! >:( >:( >:(] shoots down this rumor!!!!
Microsoft Shoots Down New Blu-ray Rumor
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Washington, D.C. (June 9, 2008) -- Microsoft is shooting down the latest rumor that it will introduce an XBox 360 video game console that includes a Blu-ray player.
The long-repeated rumor surfaced again over the weekend when the web site Crunch Gear reported that a "tipster" informed it that Microsoft would unveil the Blu-ray equipped XBox today.
The announcement supposedly would be designed in part to upstage Apple's new iPhone release, also scheduled for today.
"I’m told MS will upstage Apple with a Monday 9am PDT announcement via press release that the Xbox 360 will get Blu-Ray before Christmas. Price was 'under the current Elite', but I could (not) get any more details," the tipster said, according to Crunch Gear.
However, in an interview yesterday with the San Francisco Chronicle, Microsoft's Robbie Bach denied the company is preparing a Blu-equipped XBox.
Bach, the president of Microsoft's entertainment and devices division, added that Blu-ray high-def disc has yet to perform well at retail.
"If you look at the Blu-ray player market, you haven't seen the acceleration everybody expected," said Bach. "You have to look at how fundamentally compelling the difference is between a progressive scan DVD player and the picture that it can produce and what you get on a High-Definition player. The reality is there is some difference, but most people look at it and say, 'I am not going to pay extra for that.' "
Despite Bach's discouraging words regarding Blu-ray, Microsoft has been known in the past to quickly change its public stance on new products. In fact, since Toshiba pulled the plug on HD DVD in March, Microsoft has offered conflicting views on whether it will eventually support Blu-ray. (Microsoft was an ardent supporter of HD DVD.)
http://www.tvpredictions.com/microblu060908.htm
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Specs for Blu-ray Heroes Seasons Revealed
Universal Studios Home Entertainment has revealed the specs for the upcoming Blu-ray releases of 'Heroes: Season One' and 'Heroes: Season Two', both due to hit store shelves on August 26th. The popular TV series will get the full high definition treatment, with video being presented in 1.78:1 1080p accompanied by a DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Season One has been reduced from seven discs for the HD DVD release to five. This is because some special features, such as "Genetics Test" and "Mind Reader" games, have been removed, but also due to Blu-ray's larger storage space. The special features are as follows:
Disc 1
Artwork Presentation; Hero Connections
73-Minute Premiere Episode with Audio Commentary by Show Creator Tim Kring
BD-Live Enabled
Making Of
Special Effects
The Stunts
Profile of Artist Tim Sale
The Score
Deleted Scenes
Disc 2
Artwork Presentation, Hero Connections
Deleted Scenes
Disc 3
Artwork Presentation, Hero Connection
PIP Cast Video Commentaries
Deleted Scenes
Disc 4
Artwork Presentation, Hero Connection
PIP Cast Video Commentaries
Deleted Scenes
Disc 5
Artwork Presentation, Hero Connection
PIP Cast Video Commentaries
Deleted Scenes
Season Two comes on four discs, mostly because of the writer's strike. Extras for that season include:
Disc 1
Hero Connections - Bios, PIP Cast & Crew Commentaries
Heroes Season 2 "A New Beginning"
Takezo Kensei: Sword Saint
BD-Live Enabled
Hero Connections: Network
My Scenes
Deleted Scenes
Disc 2
Hero Connections - Bios, PIP Cast & Crew Commentaries
Genetics of a Scene
Hero Connections - Network
The Drucker Files
My Scenes
Deleted Scenes
Disc 3
Hero Connections - Bios, PIP Cast & Crew Commentaries
Tim Sale Gallery of Screen Art
Hero Connections - Network
My Scenes
Deleted Scenes
Disc 4
Hero Connecions - Bios, PIP Cast & Crew Commentaries
Generations Alternate Ending
Inside the Alternate Ending of Generations
Hero Connections - Network
My Scenes
NBC.com Featurettes
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=1388
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WHAT CRITERIA DO STUDIOS CHOOSE BEFORE RELEASING TITLES IN BLURAY? ;D ;D ;D
From: soundandvisionmag.com
Doesn't it seem random, how some B-grade old flicks make it to Blu-ray first while classics wait in line? Here, five criteria studios use before giving a Blu the green light.
That's a good guidelines but it seems FUNimation isn't following them? ;D
http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/1367/dragonballz_deadzone_worldsstrongest.html
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That's a good guidelines but it seems FUNimation isn't following them? ;D
http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/1367/dragonballz_deadzone_worldsstrongest.html
Interesting read there, Paul.
Seems like FUNimation has a different set of criteria, hehehe ;D :D ;D
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The Incredible Hulk has yet to hit the silver screen, but talks of a bluray release of the movie is in the offing --- with additional 70 minutes not found in the big screen release ...... ::) ::) ::)
Hulk Blu-ray to House 70 Minutes of Cut Footage
Universal Studios During an interview with director Louis Leterrier, he mentioned that the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'The Incredible Hulk', which is set to be released this Friday, will contain 70 minutes of cut footage. Apparently, during the editing process, some much-loved scenes got cut (including one which is in the trailer, but won't be in the final cut of the film), and the Blu-ray will showcase them all.
"There's some great stuff and there's some really horrible stuff, but you'll see it all," commented Leterrier. Regardless, Blu-ray fans will get to see a side of the film that (apparently) those who buy the DVD won't. ;D ;D ;D
Those close to the situation have speculated a falling-out between Leterrier and the film's star Edward Norton over the cutting of certain scenes. Here's hoping that the Blu-ray also has some nice intros from them both on why they loved the scene and why it was eventually cut. (bluray.com)
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Disney to Push BD-Live on All Future Blu-ray Releases
At a press event Monday, Disney unveiled ambitious plans to bring BD-Live to all its future Blu-ray titles, beginning with the October debut of 'Sleeping Beauty.'
During a media kick-off held in Hollywood, California, for the studio's first Platinum Edition Blu-ray release, Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment previewed the extensive BD-Live features on 'Sleeping Beauty,' and outlined an initiative to make web-based interactivity a cornerstone of its high-def strategy.
"We are making our entrance grand," said studio president Bob Chapek. "Every subsequent Disney title will have BD Live. [This may] push the studios to reach new heights that have never been before imagined."
The studio's BD-Live plans encompass all future Walt Disney and Pixar theatrical and catalog titles, including the likely fourth-quarter blu-ray release of Pixar's 'Wall•E.'
Disney-distributed titles from such content partners as ABC, Touchstone, and Miramax would not be included, though they may also feature BD-Live.
Disney also says it is planning an extensive multimedia marketing program to promote the benefits of BD-Live to the studio's core family demographic, designed to educate families about the value of the technology.
"You will see BD Live demos across the country," added Chapek. "We will talk about [BD Live] benefits. This is not just technology for technology's sake."
Highdeft Digest
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Singulus says Blu-ray take-up faster than DVD
From: yahoo.news
FRANKFURT (Reuters) - Singulus received orders for 21 Blu-ray dual-layer machines in the first quarter and said on Monday the figure showed the new technology was being adopted faster than its predecessor, DVD, 11 years ago.
"This means that the orders for Blu-ray in the first year of the dual layer technology already by far exceeded the volume at the start of the DVD eleven years ago with 17 machines," Chief Financial Officer Stefan Baustert said.
The German optical disc equipment maker added in a statement that it had received additional orders for Blu-ray dual-layer machines this quarter and said a key U.S. customer had accepted one of the machines for the first time.
The adoption of Blu-ray was for years held up by a format war with rival technology HD-DVD, but a decision by Hollywood studio Warner Bros. early this year to support Blu-ray exclusively effectively decided the issue.
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Warner Bros to cut down theatrical slate, focus on Blu-ray ;D :D ;D
From: bluraynews
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According to Jeff Bewkes, president and CEO of Time Warner Inc., Warner Bros Studios will cut down its theatrical slate in half from two years ago. It will instead focus on “building wider consumer adoption of Blu-ray” and expanding day-and-date VOD releases, in order to increase its profits. Even though the movie studio has seen box office success, Warner Home Video gets more revenue on DVD releases than in the box office. Warner Bros is already the leading studio in the number of catalog titles released and news like this means we should see even more classics on Blu-ray.
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Paramount Launches Blu-ray Support Site
Paramount Home Entertainment has launched a support website for their Blu-ray disc releases. Similar to what they had for their HD DVD releases, the site talks about what Blu-ray is, current and upcoming releases from the studio, and general tech support for existing Paramount Blu-ray releases.
The site is a little barren right now, with many features saying "Coming Soon", but we expect Paramount to soon populate this page and make it their primary source to connecting with Blu-ray fans. Additionally, you can expect this website to be the primary link on future Paramount BD-Live titles.
The website can be found at: http://www.paramountbluray.com/index.aspx
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Here's something relevant to our pdvd members from the US, not confirmed though if this cuts through all of costco's branches. Well, worth a look just in case... ;)
Costco Joins Recent Blu-ray Promo Blitz
Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 03:15 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/6/6123/original.jpeg)
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/6/6126/original.jpeg)
Costco has jumped into the recent flurry of Blu-ray bargains and promotions with a discounted bundle of popular titles.
Not to be outdone by fellow retailers Wal-Mart and Amazon, who both launched aggressive Blu-ray promotions this week, it seems discount superstar Costco is jumping into the fray with it's own bundle of titles, all of which are included in Amazon's current Buy 2 Get 1 Free offer.
According to our man in the field, High-Def Digest Founder Jed Rosenzweig, the titles spotted at a Seattle area Costco include 'Spider-Man: The High-Definition Trilogy,' 'Hellboy,' 'Ghost Rider,' 'Underworld,' and 'Underworld: Evolution.'
We don't know if this bundle is exclusive to Seattle area Costco locations, but it's something worth looking into if you're thinking of purchasing any or all of these titles.
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Universal Announces a Trio of Action Titles
Universal Studios Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'U-571', 'Miami Vice', and 'End of Days' to Blu-ray on August 26th, both as individual releases and as part of a 'Action Starter Pack' set. All three releases will have video presented in 1080p accompanied by 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks.
Extras for the three releases can be found below:
U-571
* Picture-In-Picture
* Feature Commentary with Director Jonathan Mostow
Miami Vice
* Picture In Picture
o General
o GPS
o Tech Specs
o Cast Bios
o Production Photographs
* Miami Vice Undercover
* Miami & Beyond: Shooting On Location
* Visualizing Miami Vice
* Behind the Scenes Featurettes
* Feature Commentary with Writer/Director Michael Mann
End of Days
* Feature Commentary with Director Peter Hyams (bluray.com)
---> finalized cover art for these titles --- to follow ;D ;D ;D
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Blu-ray Only Introduces Line of Low-Priced Blu-rays
Mon Jun 16, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
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Reaching a new low in Blu-ray pricing, newcomer Blu-ray Only is introducing its first wave of discount next-gen titles this August. Kicking off the distributor's first Blu-ray slate is the 1953 Elizabeth Taylor-Van Johnson classic 'The Last Time I Saw Paris,' and the Humphrey Bogart drama 'Beat the Devil.'
Priced at a new format-low of $11.98 each, Blu-ray Only will release both titles on August 12.
At press time there were no announced supplemental features, and the company has yet to confirm tech specs. As always, we'll keep you posted. You'll find the latest specs for 'The Last Time I Saw Paris' and 'Beat the Devil' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where they're indexed under August 12.
Source: HighDef Digest
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First Look Cracks 'The Code' on Blu-ray
Mon Jun 16, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/6/6118/original.jpeg)
It hasn't even hit theaters, but First Look Studios has set an October Blu-ray arrival for the indie crime thriller 'The Code.'
Directed by Mimi Leder and starring Morgan Freeman and Antonio Banderas, 'The Code' has yet to receive a theatrical release, but will hit Blu-ray on October 14, day-and-date with the standard DVD. (First Look has yet to announce whether 'The Code' will receive a limited theatrical release or go direct-to-video.)
No tech specs or supplemental details have been confirmed, but the full media announcement should arrive in the coming weeks. We'll keep you posted.
First Look has set a suggested list price of $34.95 for the Blu-ray.
Source: HighDef Digest
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Toshiba Super Up Conversion (SUC) - The Look And Sound Of Good Enough
Next product--Upscaled Audio... :P :P :P
Toshiba controversially announces their new 1080p upscaling technology will rival Blu-ray
Early June a rumour emerged that Toshiba would be launching a new attack on Sony, via the magic of new 'upscaling' technology. Of course, this is nothing new, with Toshiba themselves working on similar products for "some considerable years, at least 3-5 years", with DVD players, TVs and now laptops containing the upscaling chips, plus with their 'Super-resolution' imagery where SD-content is upscaled via an interpolation algorithm to 1080p.
However, today at a London event, Toshiba formally announced upscaling would be their next plan of attack on Sony, claiming they would be focussing on "taking standard content, and displaying in HD format". This technology, upscaling standard definition content, such as a DVD, to a higher resolution, has long been controversial for not even comparing to the real high-def experience that comes via Blu-ray, or HD DVD.
Toshiba explained to the assembled press at today's event that their technology would "add resolution", and "fill in the gaps", providing stronger colours and clarity where it was missing. They showed two TVs both displaying the same content, one at standard definition, and one using their upscaling device, and whilst the latter did look more impressive, it would pale in comparison if shown next to a true HD source. Which Toshiba obviously didn't do, as they're no longer endorsing HD DVD and will never support Blu-ray. ;D ;D ;D
After receiving some far from publishable questions and insults from the assembled journalists ("fanciable nonsense" was one of the kinder remarks from a journalist during the Q&A session), the representatives, including Emily Shirley, Head of Product Marketing at Toshiba Europe were obviously getting irate. :D :D :D"Blu-ray is only a storage medium", they retorted, explaining it was not the only way to view high-def content on your TV.
Digital downloads are proving to be a lucrative business for all concerned, particularly Microsoft, and it was obvious from today's meeting that Toshiba will be supporting that side of the new format war for the foreseeable future. "The fact that Bill Gates and everyone in the industry is talking about downloads is illustrious", one of the panel members responded with, when asked about the worth of downloads in comparison to Blu-ray, however they hastened to add "we're not necessarily saying anything negative about Blu-ray".
It's unclear as to what products Toshiba will be launching in the next few months with the upscaling chip, however the Qosmio laptops announced today all feature the technology. All eyes will be on the IFA technology show on August 20th in Berlin, where Toshiba is expected to introduce their new Blu-ray 'killer'.
http://techdigest.tv/2008/06/toshiba_controv.html
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'Kill Bill' Coming to Blu-ray this September
Tue Jun 17, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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At last confirming one of their most sought-after catalog titles, Disney has set a September debut for Quentin Tarantino's 'Kill Bill.'
Disney/Miramax will bow 'Kill Bill: Volume One' and 'Kill Bill: Volume Two' concurrently on September 9, marking the film's first-ever domestic debut on high-def.
Given the early lead time of the announcement, there are no tech specs or supplement details released as of yet. We also have yet to receive word from Disney whether the films will be presented in their R-rated theatrical or uncut versions, or whether a two-pack bundle will be made available. Needless to say, we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail for each volume has been set at $34.95 a pop.
You'll find preliminary specs for 'Kill Bill: Volume One' and 'Kill Bill: Volume Two' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where they're indexed under September 9.
Source: HighDef Digest
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An upcoming classic this Sept! ;)
Warner Bringing 'L.A. Confidential' to Blu-ray
Tue Jun 17, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
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Warner is set to release the Oscar-winning cult classic 'L.A. Confidential' to Blu-ray this September.
Scoring over a half-dozen Oscar noms (and a Best Supporting Actress win for Kim Basinger), the critically-lauded crime epic will finally hit Blu-ray on September 23. Long one of the most highly-requested titles in Warner's library to receive the high-def treatment, the studio will debut the Blu-ray day-and-date with a new standard-def two-disc DVD re-issue.
Extras are extensive, and include a new audio commentary with critic Andrew Sarris, a suite of four retrospective featurettes ("Whatever You Desire: Making L.A. Confidential," "Sunlight and Shadow: The Visual Style," "A True Ensemble: The Cast," "From Book to Screen"), deleted scenes, a music-only track, and numerous publicity materials, including trailers, TV spots, promotional reels, and a soundtrack sampler.
There are no tech specs, but we'll certainly keep you posted as more info comes in for this much-anticipated release.
Warner has set a suggested list price of $28.95 for the Blu-ray.
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Really feel sorry for HDDVD. On the other hand, the Blu camp just keeps on racking things up in the pipeline...
Rumor Mill: MGM Readying Bond Titles For Blu-ray Release? (UPDATED)
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According to late word from Fox France, 'Goldeneye' and 'Tomorrow Never Dies' will not be among their first six Bond BD releases. Instead, they've been replaced by 'From Russia with Love' and 'For Your Eyes Only.' We've updated the titles listed in the post below accordingly.
The French release of six Bond flicks on Blu-ray this November has hopes high that the same films may find their way to US store shelves before Christmas.
The French website filmsactu.com is reporting today that MGM (via its parent distributor Fox) will release a half-dozen Bond titles on Blu-ray in France on November 5, 2008. The six flicks are reported to be 'Dr No,' 'Thunderball,' 'Live or Let Die,' 'From Russia With Love,' 'Die Another Day' and 'For Your Eyes Only.'
As for the fourteen other unreleased Bond titles ('Casino Royale' is the only 007 flick currently available on Blu-ray), rumor has it that they're planned for release concurrent with the BD release of 'Quantum of Solace,' sometime in the first half of 2009.
Though the French release of these titles doesn't necessarily mean they will also hit shelves stateside, generally Fox/MGM's release of such tentpole titles in France happens concurrently with (or is preceded by) a US release, heightening expectations that a US announcement could be on its way.
We should stress that with no official word from Fox or MGM stateside, all discussion of a US release of the Bond catalogue is purely speculative at this point. Needless to say, we'll keep you posted when and if any official information comes in. Stay tuned...
Source: HighDef Digest
It's official .... ;D ;D ;D
BOND officially coming to Blu-ray by October 21
From: bluraynews
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Fox Home Entertainment have announced they will be bringing six James Bond classics to Blu-ray on October 21st. The six titles will be Dr. No, Die Another Day, Live and Let Die, For Your Eyes Only, From Russia with Love, and Thunderball. Each film will receive a frame-by-frame restoration by film restoration group Lowery Digital Images.
For the past year and nearly a half, Sony's Casino Royale was the only Bond film available on Blu-ray. These six will bring the total to seven, with Quantum of Solace likely to join them early next year.
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RELATED NEWS ...........
QUOTE:
LOS ANGELES – June 18, 2008 – The world´s most well known secret agent and his bevy of babes are even hotter in high definition when six, must-have, classic James Bond films debut worldwide on Blu-ray Disc -- (OCT. 21 North America / OCT. 20 UK/International) -- from MGM and Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment.
Recently restored and re-mastered for the highest quality picture and sound quality via the state-of-the-art Lowry process digital frame-by-frame restoration and featuring special features galore, Bond is primed for Blu-ray Disc with a selection of 007 adventures spanning the storied career of cinema´s most recognizable spy. Bond titles arriving on Blu-ray Disc, timed to the highly anticipated worldwide theatrical premiere of the 22nd James Bond mission QUANTUM OF SOLACE this November, include DR. NO, DIE ANOTHER DAY, LIVE AND LET DIE, FOR YOUR EYES ONLY, FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE and THUNDERBALL.
The world´s most successful film franchise, Bond… James Bond has generated more than one billion in global box office gross and boasts an astounding 98% global consumer awareness. CASINO ROYALE, the most recent James Bond film starring Daniel Craig, debuted on BD March 2007, and continues to rank as one of the best selling Blu-ray Disc releases to-date.
"With QUANTUM OF SOLACE on the horizon, Bond fever is building once again and there is no better time to re-introduce these beloved films featuring the best picture and sound quality available today to the 60 million+ HD-capable households worldwide," said Eric Doctorow, General Manager Worldwide, MGM Home Entertainment.
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Fox Home Entertainment have announced they will be bringing six James Bond classics to Blu-ray on October 21st. The six titles will be Dr. No, Die Another Day, Live and Let Die, For Your Eyes Only, From Russia with Love, and Thunderball. Each film will receive a frame-by-frame restoration by film restoration group Lowery Digital Images.
Very very good news to all Bond's fans! Moks007 will be jumping in joy! ;D
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Very very good news to all Bond's fans! Moks007 will be jumping in joy! ;D
hehe...I am indeed jumping up in joy ;D Did you guys feel the tremor ;D hehe...Excellent news..I will surely buy all 6 ;D..
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hehe...I am indeed jumping up in joy ;D Did you guys feel the tremor ;D hehe...Excellent news..I will surely buy all 6 ;D..
HAHAHA ;D ;D ;D
May aftershocks pa nga hanggang ngayon ..... :D
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Warner Eyes Winter Holiday BD Live Launch
From: homemediamagazine.com
Warner Bros. is looking to launch Web-enabled Blu-ray titles with BD Live as early as the winter holidays, according to a senior official.
In a keynote address June 18 at the Entertainment Supply Chain Academy conference, Darcy Antonellis, president of Warner Bros. Technical Operations, said the unnamed titles will include real-time viewing, library tools, a search engine, a recommendation tool with e-mail reminders, ringtones and wallpapers.
Antonellis said picture-in-picture, ringtones, deleted scenes, screeners and related online exclusives were originally earmarked for HD DVD.
She said studios will be dialed into consumer habits based in large part on the information they submit during the registration process included with each Blu-ray title.
The executive believes consumer adoption of BD Live will be faster than it was for enhanced features on standard DVD due to the heightened awareness of interactive video games.
“I think it has the ability to compete [with MySpace and YouTube] for a user’s time because you are taking them online and you’re able to create a community that we have never been able to do before,” she said. “That’s huge for us.”
The executive envisions in the near future being able to harness the online chat room activity surrounding the upcoming “Batman” movie, The Dark Knight.
“Think about what we could do with Batman Begins,” Antonellis said. (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/merv/batman.gif) (http://www.freesmileys.org)
The executive said BD Live removes numerous challenges studios face attempting to bring a movie to home entertainment, including enhanced content, navigation and creative clearances.
She said the format allows Warner to create templates in advance that can be added to the disc with future content derived directly from the Internet.
“That’s a game changer as it relates to the supply chain, production of our titles,” Antonellis said.
She said Warner would use BD Live to send out notices to consumers about special online events, where talent would be available at a specific date and time.
“These are exclusive opportunities that can be offered through this small community that is created with these [Profile 2.0] players,” Antonellis said. “We are no longer limited by finite capacity on the disc.”
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HD DVD RIP
Cillian Murphy Will Be The Last Thing HD DVD Sees Before It Dies
HD DVD was declared dead a long time ago, and the last film to be released to the US on the format will hit (roughly three to five) shelves tomorrow. Disco Pigs was originally released in 2001 and very appropriately stars Cillian Murphy and Elaine Cassidy as friends who were born in the same hospital, at the same time, and who grew up next to one another. Unfortunately, as they reach adulthood it is apparent that their relationship has become dangerously volatile. It doesn't end well.
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First Look: 'Transformers' Blu-ray Box Art
Mon Jun 23, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
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The Blu-ray won't arrive until September, but Paramount'/DreamWorks has released a first look at the box art for the Michael Bay blockbuster.
As previously reported, Paramount/DreamWorks set a September 2 Blu-ray bow for 'Transformers,' nearly a year after the HD DVD version became that format's all-time top-seller.
Confirmed specs for the Blu-ray sees a matching set of bonus features, including audio commentary with Bay, a pair of four-part documentaries ("Our World," "Their War"), the "From Script to Sand: The SKORPONOK Desert Attack" featurette, a "Concepts" still gallery, theatrical trailers, and multiple easter eggs.
Although Paramount has yet to detail whether all of the exclusive content found on the HD DVD (including PIP, a GPS tracking feature and more) will be included on the Blu-ray, the studio has confirmed the release will be BD-Live-enabled with exact details to be announced soon.
Tech specs include 1080p video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio -- a bump up from the non-high-res audio Dolby Digital track found on the HD DVD.
Finally, Paramount/DreamWorks has revealed final box art for 'Transformers,' which will also mirror the HD DVD and DVD releases:
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/6/6178/original.jpeg)
As previously announced, suggested retail for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.98.
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Blu-ray Disc sales estimated to exceed DVDs in 2012
Posted Jun 24th 2008 @ engadgethd.com
Oh, joy. Yet another report suggesting something about the year 2012 -- as if we're just going to let 'em spew anything and not check back for accuracy in 3.5 years? Anywho, not long after hearing a laughable article suggesting that Blu-ray decks would outsell DVD players by August (yes, of 2008), along comes another that makes a little more sense. The Entertainment Merchants Association's (EMA) 2008 annual report on home entertainment has found that "nearly 9 million high-definition discs were sold in 2007," and just 12,177 DVDs were released last year, down from a peak of 13,950 in 2005. More interesting, however, was the notion that "in 2012, sales of Blu-ray Discs will exceed those of standard DVDs and will generate sales of $9.5 billion," while spending on home video in general is expected to increase to $25.6 billion. Remember those days when you just couldn't find a VHS tape to save your life? You've got just under four years before that same feeling hits in relation to DVD (their assertion, not ours). ;D
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Sony to implement BD-Live on all future Blu-ray releases
posted Jun 24th 2008 @ engadgethd.com
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That sound you hear off in the distance is the BD-Live bandwagon gaining steam, and the latest studio to hop on board is Sony. Shortly after Universal, Disney and Warner Bros. announced their BD-Live plans, along comes Sony to do the same. Reportedly, Rich Marty, Sony's VP of new business development, has affirmed that all new Sony Pictures Home Entertainment releases that hit store shelves after Men In Black will have at least some level of BD-Live interactivity wrapped in, though no specifics about what to expect were given. Marty did note that the studio has seen "a great response so far," with some 1 in 5 BD-Live movie buyers taking the time to activate and explore the feature. Not that we necessarily agree that 20-percent represents a "great response," but we can't argue with more interactive content for the minority demanding it.
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Weinstein to Release First Theatrical Blu-ray with 'The Mist'
Becoming the last major studio to embrace Blu-ray, the Weinstein Co. has announced its first theatrical release on the format with the August bow of 'The Mist.'
Though the studio issued a retailer alert last month for the TV-on-high-def release of 'Lonesome Dove,' 'The Mist' will mark the Weinstein's first theatrical title on Blu-ray when it hits stores August 5. (The studio had previously supported HD DVD before pulling the plug following the format's demise earlier this year.)
Directed by Frank Darabont and based on a classic short story by Stephen King, 'The Mist' will come to Blu-ray in a two-disc set with a host of bonus features that replicate the acclaimed DVD edition (which the Weinstein Co. first issued last March). Among the extensive extras are audio commentary with Darabont, multiple making-of featurettes, deleted scenes, a series of behind-the-scenes Web-i-sodes, and theatrical trailers.
Tech specs include both the original theatrical feature and a unique "black and white" version, each getting their own disc, presented in 1080 video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Suggested retail price for 'The Mist' has been set at $39.98.
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Weinstein_Co./Disc_Announcements/Weinstein_to_Release_First_Theatrical_Blu-ray_with_The_Mist/1857 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Weinstein_Co./Disc_Announcements/Weinstein_to_Release_First_Theatrical_Blu-ray_with_The_Mist/1857)
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BAND OF BROTHERS GOES BLU - DETAILS
From: bluraynews
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/bandofbrothers.jpg)
Live from the EMA show going on at the Palms in Las Vegas this week, site founder/webmaster Gord Lacey has sent me the details of HBO Video's plans for a Blu-ray Disc version of Band of Brothers. We've already known that the Tom Hanks/Gary Goetzman - produced mini-series would come to high-def later this year, but now we've got tons of new info about the release!
First of all, expect to see it in a special tin packaging, similar in design to the DVD version which has been out for around six years now. In addition, though, the content will be ramped up with digitally restored episodes, presented in DTS sound, and including new bonus material such as picture-in-picture commentary with the surviving members of Easy Company, as well as existing bonus material such as the Interactive Field Guide featuring timelines, maps, soldier profiles, and much more. There was also a mention of "In the Field with the Men of Easy Company," but there's confusion right now if this is a separate bonus item, or if it's a new name attached to an enhanced-for-Blu version of the Field Guide.
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BAND OF BROTHERS GOES BLU - DETAILS
From: bluraynews
Phew...luckily I held back the HD DVD purchase....this is GOOD news!! :)
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yes!!!!!! Band of Brothers!!!!!!!!!!!
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New Blu-ray Release of 300 Confirmed
At the Saturn Awards earlier this week, Collider.com managed to get an interview with producer Mark Canton, who worked as the producer on '300'. During that interview, he confirmed that they were working on a new Blu-ray release for the film. Given past information from Warner, we expect this release to be called '300: Limited Collector's Edition' and to be released later this year.
When the film was initially released for Blu-ray, it lacked some picture-in-picture functionality that the HD DVD release had. We expect that this new release will restore that functionality as well as introduce new special features.
Even around the time of the initial release, Deborah Snyder, wife of '300' director Zack Snyder, mentioned that a new Blu-ray release was forth-coming.
No technical specs or special features were revealed at this time, but expect to see more soon.
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=1452
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New Blu-ray Release of 300 Confirmed
When the film was initially released for Blu-ray, it lacked some picture-in-picture functionality that the HD DVD release had. We expect that this new release will restore that functionality as well as introduce new special features.
That's good news! Glad to hear the 300 BD will be improved. ;)
The bad news is for those who had purchased the initial blu-ray will feel shortcharge. The though of it really sucks! :-[
*I only have the HD DVD copy ;D
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Think you paid too much for your PS3???
Sony has lost over $3 billion on the PS3 (http://videogames.yahoo.com/feature/sony-has-lost-over-3-billion-on-the-ps3/1223467)
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That's good news! Glad to hear the 300 BD will be improved. ;)
The bad news is for those who had purchased the initial blu-ray will feel shortcharge. The though of it really sucks! :-[
*I only have the HD DVD copy ;D
I also have the HD-DVD version, I don't feel the need to get the Blu-ray version anymore.
The HD-DVD copy is already killer ;D
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Think you paid too much for your PS3???
Sony has lost over $3 billion on the PS3 (http://videogames.yahoo.com/feature/sony-has-lost-over-3-billion-on-the-ps3/1223467)
So its finally out. I remember before when the ps3 was 599usd (first 60 gigs units when it came out) and blu folks on other forums are arguing how the hell does red folks know how much is the actual cost of the ps3 blah blah blah. Well at least they won the war from this strategy ;D..Now the big question, Is it worth it for them? When prices start coming down (which is inevitable) profit margins will be smaller. Then now you can have movie downloads for ps3 ???..I don't get it, maybe Sony is accepting bluray is a niche?
P.S. Don't forget more money to be paid pa to Warner ;D when they turned blu exclusive in January....That will be a total of $4 BILLION joke joke lang..
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Think you paid too much for your PS3???
Not at all. Never regret my PS3 purchase. Keep up the good work SONY. ;)
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Disney Bundles 'Pirates' Trilogy on Blu-ray
Fri Jun 27, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
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Disney today announced plans to bundle all three 'Pirates of the Caribbean' films in a six-disc Blu-ray box set, due this September.
Dubbed 'Pirates of the Caribbean: 3-Movie Collection,' the set features the complete blockbuster trilogy -- 'Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl,' 'Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest' and 'Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End' -- packaged together on Blu-ray for the first time.
Replicating the stand-alone two-disc versions currently available, there are no new bonus features or box set exclusives. Disney also says the individual keepcase packaging will mirror the existing releases.
Suggested list price for the '3-Movie Collection' is $82.98, representing a more than $20 savings over buying each title individually.
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Amazon to Offer Exclusive 'Kiss of the Spider Woman' Blu-ray
Fri Jun 27, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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In an industry first, the acclaimed 1985 drama 'Kiss of the Spider Woman' is set to make its Blu-ray debut this July exclusively through Amazon.com.
Long out of print on VHS, the Oscar-nominated William Hurt-Raul Julia starrer will finally make its way to Blu-ray, standard DVD, and as an online download on July 22, via an exclusive partnership between distributor City Lights Home Entertainment and Amazon. The release marks the first such cross-format online exclusive for the format.
"Amazon customers have asked for ‘Kiss of the Spider Woman' for many years," said Peter Faricy, Vice President of Movies and Music, Amazon. "By making it available in so many mediums on Amazon.com, independent film fans can rediscover a classic that has not been seen in theaters for more than 23 years and has not been available on video for more than 15 years."
City Lights and Amazon have not yet issued tech specs for the Blu-ray, but full details should be made available shortly.
Extras on the Blu-ray include the full-length documentary "'Tangled Web: Making Kiss of the Spider Woman.'"
Retail for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.98
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Jerry Maguire Poised for Blu-ray Debut
Posted 27 June 2008
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Jerry Maguire starring Tom Cruise is returning to Sony's Blu-ray release schedule and will arrive in stores on September 9.
Sony had originally announced Jerry Maguire was slated for a Blu-ray bow nearly ago, pegging a December 2007 or January 2008 arrival. Without warning it was pulled from the schedule and sent to release date purgatory along with Glory and countless others.
The delay will likely mean Jerry Maguire will sport 5.1 Dolby TrueHD uncompressed audio rather than 5.1 PCM uncompressed which was standard for the studio up until a few months ago.
Because Sony has not made an official announcement for Jerry Maguire on Blu-ray, this information should be considered subject to change until confirmed by the studio.
;D ;D ;D "SHOW ME THE MONEY !!!!!!" ;D ;D ;D
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Iron Man Blu-ray Dominates Amazon Sales
Posted: 29 June 2008
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Iron Man: Special Collector's Edition on Blu-ray Disc continues to sit atop Amazon.com Blu-ray sales charts despite having yet to be formally announced by Paramount Home Entertainment.
Amazon has yet to discount Iron Man since it was first listed as an active pre-order several weeks ago, keeping the price steady at $27.95. Since then, other titles like Cloverfield, Planet Earth: The Complete Series, Jumper and more have gone on sale.
None of those titles have been able to nudge Iron Man off its pedestal. Even Transformers, one of the best-selling HD DVD titles of all time and set for a Blu-ray bow on September 2, has yet to pull ahead of Iron Man.
Rumors and leaks continue to swirl around the Internet pegging September 30 as the official release date for Iron Man: Special Collector's Edition on Blu-ray Disc. We're not going to confirm or deny those rumors, so you'll just have to be patient and wait for Paramount to release official information.
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Warner Prepping 'Gigi,' 'American in Paris' Blu-rays for 2009
Mon Jun 30, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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There's no date yet, but Warner has confirmed plans to bring the classics 'Gigi' and 'An American in Paris' to Blu-ray in 2009.
Released this year in feature-laden, two-disc standard DVD editions, fans had hoped Warner would also announce a Blu-ray release for the pair of musicals, but despite rumors to the contrary, Warner now says both titles won't receive the deluxe next-gen treatment until sometime in the new year.
Given that a high-def release of 'Gigi' and 'An American in Paris' are still at least months away, there are no to tech specs or supplemental details confirmed as of yet. However, both of the standard DVD editions were chock full of extras, so expectations are high for the Blu-ray versions.
Needless to say, watch this space for the latest news as it comes to us.
In the meantime, we've added listings for both 'Gigi' and 'An American In Paris' to the "Release Dates Pending" section of our Blu-ray Release Schedule. Stay tuned!
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DivX 7 to officially support MKV
(http://img58.imageshack.us/img58/8744/logo128x100x32330a58dl7.png) (http://imageshack.us)
Like anyone else, we can't get enough video formats -- not -- but unlike H.264, DivX, XviD and MPEG-2 the latest rage is Matroska (aka MKV) is not a codec, but a container. It is the format which holds other formats, so you should be wondering, what's so special about it? It is special because it can hold new combinations of codecs and it is open for anyone to use. The most popular new feature is it's ability to contain x.264 video, DTS audio, and at the same time subtitles in multimple languages, all in the same file. It is quickly becoming the replacement for AVI, and has the best chance of becoming the mp3 of video, than any other container has before. The problem of course is support. As usual Windows is covered, but thanks to Perian, Macs have support now too. And of course the most universal player in the world, VLC does too. But now it appears it has warranted some commercial support and the next version of DivX will play nice too. This of course doesn't mean that any hardware vendors will join in -- other than the Popcorn Hour that is -- but it's a step in the right direction.
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'Forbidden Kingdom' Blu-ray Specs, Box Art In
Lionsgate has revealed final specs and box art for 'The Forbidden Kingdom,' which will hit Blu-ray in September with 7.1 audio and Digital Copy.
First announced for Blu-ray release earlier this month, the Jackie Chan-Jet Li actioner is due to hit high-def on September 9, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Extras shared across both versions include audio commentary with director Rob Minkoff and writer John Fusco, six featurettes ("The Kung Fu Dream Team," "Dangerous Beauty," "Discovering China," "Filming in Chinawood," "Monkey King and the Eight Immortals," "Previsualization"), deleted scenes, a blooper reel, and on a separate disc, a Digital Copy of the film for viewing on portable video devices.
Tech specs for the Blu-ray include video in 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 and a English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 7.1 Surround soundtrack.
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First Look: Transformers Blu-ray BD-Live
The guide shows off menu and in-feature screenshots of the BD-Live Intelligence Mode. This mode provides on-screen widgets, a GPS Tracker, Robot Status Alerts that depict a robot's health, and a Data Panel.
looky looky ..... ;D ;D ;D
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For the TC fanatics... 8)
Warner Reveals 'Risky Business' Blu-ray Specs, Adds Exclusives
Thu Jul 03, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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Warner has announced specs for the September Blu-ray debut of 'Risky Business,' which will hit high-def with multiple exclusives and Digital Copy.
As previously reported, the smash 1983 comedy (which propelled Tom Cruise to superstardom) will make its much-requested Blu-ray debut on September 16, day-and-date with a new standard DVD re-issue.
Full specs are now in, with the Blu-ray and DVD both enjoying an audio commentary with director Paul Brickman, producer Jon Avnet and Cruise, a new retrospective documentary celebrating the film's 25th anniversary, and an alternate ending presented by Brickman.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray is a picture-in-picture version of the audio commentary (Bonus View-enabled), plus a Digital Copy of the film on a separate disc.
Suggested retail price has been set at $28.99.
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Blast from the past 80's boomers. Cult 'pinhead' fans get ready... ;D
'Hellraiser,' 'Children of the Corn' Planned for Blu-ray
Thu Jul 03, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
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There's no date yet, but Anchor Bay says it is planning to bring the '80s horror faves 'Hellraiser' and 'Children to the Corn' to Blu-ray sometime in the next few months.
Two of the most popular scarefests of their time, both 'Hellraiser' and 'Children of the Corn' would go on to amass their own devoted cult followings as well as spawn a seemingly never-ending series of sequels.
With both titles among the hottest DVD sellers in Anchor Bay's library, the company says they are currently planning to bring both the original 'Hellraiser' and 'Children of the Corn' to Blu-ray as early as this Halloween, or at the latest by the first quarter of 2009.
Given the early nature of the news, there is no word on specs or supplemental details, although both titles have recently been remastered in HD for airing on cable and satellite networks.
We'll certainly keep you posted as soon as further word from Anchor Bay comes to us. Stay tuned.
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Daredevil: Director's Cut Coming to Blu-ray
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A new listing for Daredevil: Director's Cut on Blu-ray Disc has popped up online, signaling a likely arrival for Fox's superhero flick on September 30.
The previously released Daredevil: Director's Cut DVD included 20 additional minutes, a Director's Cut commentary by Mark Steven Johnson and Ari Arad and a Making of Director's Cut featurette.
Technical specs will be issued with Fox's official announcement but a safe bet is to expect widescreen 2.35:1 1080p video and 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio.
The September 30 date for Daredevil adds fuel to speculation Paramount's Iron Man: Special Collector's Edition will touch down the same day despite no official announcement coming from the studio. We aren't at liberty to say either way but would be surprised if Paramount didn't make the big Iron Man announcement (and likewise Fox announcing Daredevil) at San Diego Comic-Con three weeks from now.
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Sony Announces Four Upcoming Blu-ray Titles
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced four new titles coming soon to Blu-ray. First up is 'Redbelt', which is set to hit store shelves on August 26th, day-and-date with the DVD release. This Sony Pictures Classics title will be presented in 2.40:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack.
Extras for 'Redbelt' include:
* Commentary with David Mamet and Randy Couture
* "Behind-the-Scenes of Redbelt": Making-of Featurette
* "Inside Mixed Martial Arts": Cast and Crew Featurette
* Q & A with Director David Mamet
* An Interview with Dana White - A conversation with Dana White, the President of the UFC
* "Fighter Profiles": - Video profiles on the fighters featured in Redbelt
* "The Magic of Cyril Takayama": A featurette on the Magician/Actor
Two weeks later, Sony will bring 'The Fall' to Blu-ray on September 9th, day-and-date with the DVD release. Technical specs for this release are not available at this time, but you can expect a 1080p AVC presentation with a Dolby TrueHD soundtrack.
For 'The Fall', the special features are as follows:
* Commentary with Writer/Director Tarsem
* Commentary with Lee Pace, Writer/Producer Nico Soultanakis and Writer Dan Gilroy
* Deleted Scenes
* 2 Behind-the-Scene Featurettes – an artistic look at the film's production
* PhotoGallery (Blu-ray Exclusive)
Next up is the Al Pacino film '88 Minutes' which is currently scheduled to be released on September 16th, day-and-date with the DVD release. Video will be presented in 2.35:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack.
'88 Minutes' includes the following supplemental features:
* Alternate Ending
* Commentary with Director Jon Avnet
* "Director's Point of View" featurette
* "The Character Within" featurette
And finally, Sony is bringing 'Made of Honor' to Blu-ray, also on September 16th, day-and-date with the DVD release. Video will be presented in 2.40:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack. Special features for this release have not been announced at this time.
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Pioneer's Blu-ray disc hits 400GB across 16-layers
:o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o
wish it will be compatible with current bd players ;) ;)
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BAND OF BROTHERS GOES BLU - DETAILS
From: bluraynews
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/bandofbrothers.jpg)
Live from the EMA show going on at the Palms in Las Vegas this week, site founder/webmaster Gord Lacey has sent me the details of HBO Video's plans for a Blu-ray Disc version of Band of Brothers. We've already known that the Tom Hanks/Gary Goetzman - produced mini-series would come to high-def later this year, but now we've got tons of new info about the release!
First of all, expect to see it in a special tin packaging, similar in design to the DVD version which has been out for around six years now. In addition, though, the content will be ramped up with digitally restored episodes, presented in DTS sound, and including new bonus material such as picture-in-picture commentary with the surviving members of Easy Company, as well as existing bonus material such as the Interactive Field Guide featuring timelines, maps, soldier profiles, and much more. There was also a mention of "In the Field with the Men of Easy Company," but there's confusion right now if this is a separate bonus item, or if it's a new name attached to an enhanced-for-Blu version of the Field Guide.
Blu-ray Box Art:
(http://www.tvshowsondvd.net/graphics/news3/BandOfBrothers_BluRay.jpg)
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Pioneer's Blu-ray disc hits 400GB across 16-layers
:o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o
wish it will be compatible with current bd players ;) ;)
it is ^_^
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Warner launches pricing promotion
JULY 11 | Warner Home Video is launching aggressive pricing initiatives for the fourth quarter, including its most comprehensive Blu-ray Disc promotion yet, say retailers.
Starting early September and rolling through first-quarter 2009, Warner will offer a Blu-ray point-of-sale rebate program with which retailers will essentially be able to order participating catalog titles for around $11.
Even with a retail mark-up on the featured titles—including The Fugitive, Enter the Dragon, Clockwork Orange, The Shining, The Aviator, Road Warrior and Swordfish—the price tag to consumers should be significantly less than the titles’ current average of $20 to $25 retail price at outlets such as Amazon.com and Best Buy.
In this program, retailers will buy the titles at their present pricing but obtain rebate money back upon the sale of each unit. That should ultimately amount to a relatively inexpensive $11 cost for retailers.
Additionally, Warner will offer rebates, although less extensive, for newer Blu-ray releases, including 300, The Departed, I Am Legend, Ocean’s 13 and We Are Marshall. This layer of the Blu-ray program also will run from early September to the first quarter, according to store sources.
The consumer price for these titles is likely to fall somewhere between $17 and $20. That would still represent a deal for shoppers, as titles such as 300 are now falling between $24 and $30 at outlets such as Amazon and Best Buy.
Warner did not comment by deadline.
Although retailers hope Warner’s Blu-ray strategy will pay off with boosted sales, some store sources worry that the format is becoming devalued too quickly.
“They are trying to get this software business going,” said one source. “But it’s really a double-edged sword. We’re happy to be able to offer it, but it can be a slippery slope. Consumers might get in the mindset that they want everything discounted. If that becomes the case, we will shorten the life of Blu-ray just like we did with DVD.”
At deadline, Newbury Comics buyer Ian Leshin had not yet learned of Warner’s Blu-ray plan. But he seemed to embrace the studio’s strategy. The New England chain found success with Lionsgate’s Blu-ray repricings earlier this year. Lionsgate was the first studio to permanently reprice its Blu-ray titles, including Terminator 2 and Devil’s Rejects, down $10 to a new $19.99 SRP.
“Terminator 2 is our biggest-selling catalog title with the $19.99 SRP,” said Leshin. “It can become more of an impulse thing to buy.”
One retail executive was less enthusiastic about studio repricings in general, blaming them for unnecessarily encouraging customers to delay purchasing. The executive wishes pricing promotions were shorter in duration.
“Customers get in the habit of seeing the price go down and down, and they’ll get in the habit of waiting longer to buy,” the executive explained. “If you can do something that is very short-term, that will give customers a reason to buy.”
http://www.videobusiness.com/index.asp?layout=article&articleid=CA6577564
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First Look: 'Mist,' '1408' Blu-ray Box Art
Fri Jul 11, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/6/6215/original.jpeg)
With the launch of the their first Blu-ray titles only a month away, the Weinstein Co. has issued a first look at the cover art for 'The Mist' and '1408.'
As first announced last month, Frank Darabont's 'The Mist' will mark the Weinsteins' first Blu-ray release of a theatrical title when it hits stores on August 5. The studio will then follow it up with another hit Stephen King adaptation '1408,' due a little over a month later on September 16.
Tech specs see both 'The Mist' and '1408' receiving BD-50 dual-layer presentations (with 'The Mist' also a two-disc set), with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras will mirror the previous DVD editions, with both films presented in unrated versions and brimming with extras including audio commentary, featurettes, deleted scenes, and more.
Finally, the Weinstein Co. had revealed the final high-res box art for both releases.
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/6/6341/original.jpeg)
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/6/6342/original.jpeg)
As previously reported, suggested list price for the double-disc 'The Mist ' has been set at $34.98, and $29.98 for the single-disc '1408.'
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Warner lowers Blu-ray pricing
Retailers could get catalog titles for $11
From: videobusiness.com
Warner Home Video is launching aggressive pricing initiatives for the fourth quarter, including its most comprehensive Blu-ray Disc promotion yet, say retailers.
Starting early September and rolling through first-quarter 2009, Warner will offer a Blu-ray point-of-sale rebate program with which retailers will essentially be able to order participating catalog titles for around $11.
Even with a retail mark-up on the featured titles—including The Fugitive, Enter the Dragon, Clockwork Orange, The Shining, The Aviator, Road Warrior and Swordfish—the price tag to consumers should be significantly less than the titles’ current average of $20 to $25 retail price at outlets such as Amazon.com and Best Buy.
In this program, retailers will buy the titles at their present pricing but obtain rebate money back upon the sale of each unit. That should ultimately amount to a relatively inexpensive $11 cost for retailers.
Additionally, Warner will offer rebates, although less extensive, for newer Blu-ray releases, including 300, The Departed, I Am Legend, Ocean’s 13 and We Are Marshall. This layer of the Blu-ray program also will run from early September to the first quarter, according to store sources.
The consumer price for these titles is likely to fall somewhere between $17 and $20. That would still represent a deal for shoppers, as titles such as 300 are now falling between $24 and $30 at outlets such as Amazon and Best Buy.
Warner did not comment by deadline.
Although retailers hope Warner’s Blu-ray strategy will pay off with boosted sales, some store sources worry that the format is becoming devalued too quickly.
“They are trying to get this software business going,” said one source. “But it’s really a double-edged sword. We’re happy to be able to offer it, but it can be a slippery slope. Consumers might get in the mindset that they want everything discounted. If that becomes the case, we will shorten the life of Blu-ray just like we did with DVD.”
At deadline, Newbury Comics buyer Ian Leshin had not yet learned of Warner’s Blu-ray plan. But he seemed to embrace the studio’s strategy. The New England chain found success with Lionsgate’s Blu-ray repricings earlier this year. Lionsgate was the first studio to permanently reprice its Blu-ray titles, including Terminator 2 and Devil’s Rejects, down $10 to a new $19.99 SRP.
“Terminator 2 is our biggest-selling catalog title with the $19.99 SRP,” said Leshin. “It can become more of an impulse thing to buy.”
Warner’s Blu-ray rebate program comes on top of a straight repricing plan for a slew of standard-definition DVD titles that also goes into effect in September. As detailed in a July 2 newsletter to retailers, Warner will drop the price on varying titles to either a $19.96, $14.96 or $12.97 SRP. Some relatively new Warner theatrical DVDs are slated to fall to $19.96, including June 17 release Fool’s Gold and June 24’s 10,000 B.C. The discs originally streeted at a $28.98 SRP.
The $14.96 repricing will span such titles as Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire and Blood Diamond, and the $12.97 price point will cover titles including Wedding Crashers and Ant Bully.
All studios often reprice titles as they age on shelves, but the retail community similarly has mixed feelings about such plans.
“My first thought is that I like repricings because it does provide our customers with a better value, where they can get the same title for less money and enjoy a better margin,” said Kirk Kirkpatrick, president of video at wholesaler WaxWorks VideoWorks. However, the studios “are repricing a little quickly on some, but they want to get the fourth quarter going.”
One retail executive was less enthusiastic about studio repricings in general, blaming them for unnecessarily encouraging customers to delay purchasing. The executive wishes pricing promotions were shorter in duration.
“Customers get in the habit of seeing the price go down and down, and they’ll get in the habit of waiting longer to buy,” the executive explained. “If you can do something that is very short-term, that will give customers a reason to buy.”
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UNIVERSAL STUDIOS TO RELEASE HORROR FLICKS IN SEPTEMBER
Universal Studios Home Video announced the US Blu-ray Disc release of three horror titles on 30th September 2008. Priced at $29.98 SRP each or available as part of a Halloween Starter Pack priced at $59.98 SRP are the 2004 remake of Dawn of the Dead, George A. Romero’s Land of the Dead and John Carpenter’s The Thing.
Universal have so far not used region coding on their Blu-ray Disc titles and we expect this trend to continue, though officially no region coding information has been supplied.
Features are detailed below…
Dawn of the Dead (Unrated Director’s Cut)
* BD-25 Single Layer
* 1080P Widescreen
* English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio
* French and Spanish 5.1 DTS Surround
* English SDH, French and Spanish subtitles
* U-Control Tutorial
* U-Control Picture-in-Picture
* Feature Commentary with Director Zack Snyder and Producer Eric Newman
Land of the Dead (Unrated Director’s Cut)
* BD-25 Single Layer
* 1080P Widescreen
* English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio
* Spanish 5.1 DTS Surround
* English SDH, French and Spanish subtitles
* U Control Tutorial
* U Control Picture in Picture
* The Remaining Bits
* When Shaun Met George
* Scenes of Carnage
* Zombie Effects: From Green Screen To Finished Scene
* Bringing The Storyboards to Life
* Scream Tests: Zombie Casting Call
* Feature Commentary with Director George Romero, Producer Peter Grunwald and Editor Michael Doherty
The Thing
* BD-25 Single Layer
* 1080P Widescreen
* English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio
* French 5.1 DTS Surround
* English SDH, French and Spanish subtitles
* U Control Tutorial
* U Control Picture in Picture
* BD-Live Enabled
* Feature Commentary with Kurt Russell and Director John Carpenter
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Trio of IMAX Titles Bound for Blu-ray
Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4246/original.jpeg)
Image Entertainment has announced that a trio of new titles, including 'Dolphins,' , Coral Reef Adventure,' and 'The Living Sea' will anchor its rescheduled October wave of Blu-ray IMAX releases.
Originally schedule for late 2007, Image bumped 'Dolphins' and 'The Living Sea' from its schedule. Both titles have now received a new date of November 11, where they will be joined by another IMAX favorite making it's next-gen debut, 'Coral Reef Adventure.'
Tech specs include 1080p video (recomposed at 1.78:1) and English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround.
At press time, there were no announced extras. We'll let you know of any spec changes as they come to us.
Suggested retail price for each title has been set $24.95.
You'll find the latest specs for 'Dolphins,' 'Coral Reef Adventure' and 'The Living Sea'' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where they're indexed under November 11.
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Universal Adds Exclusives, U-Control to 'Virgin,' 'Knocked Up' Blu-rays
Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/3/3073/original.jpeg)
Universal has issued final specs for '40-Year-Old Virgin' and 'Knocked Up,' both of which will hit Blu-ray this September in unrated cuts and with new exclusive content.
As originally announced last month, the Judd Apatow-directed '40-Year-Old Virgin' and 'Knocked Up' will debut as stand-alone Blu-ray releases on September 30, along with the Apatow-produced comedy 'Forgetting Sarah Marshall.' All three will also be made available as part of a three-pack bundle, the "Ultimate Unrated Comedy
Matching the already-announced specs for 'Sarah Marshall,' Universal has now confirmed that both 'Knocked Up' and '40-Year-Old Virgin' will also feature both the theatrical and unrated cuts of the film available on a single BD-50 dual-layer disc, accessible via seamless branching. Tech specs include 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround.
Extras are extensive, with both titles enjoying the same bells and whistles as the previous HD DVD and standard DVD editions, including audio commentaries, multiple featurettes, deleted scenes, additional behind-the-scenes footage and Apatow's now-standard "Line-O-Rama" montages.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray versions of both 'Knocked Up' and '40-Year-Old Virgin' are U-Control picture-in-picture tracks (Profile 1.1 required), as well as U-Control Tutorials.
Suggested list price for each title has been set at $34.95.
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It's official .... ;D ;D ;D
BOND officially coming to Blu-ray by October 21
From: bluraynews
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/bond.jpg)
Fox Home Entertainment have announced they will be bringing six James Bond classics to Blu-ray on October 21st. The six titles will be Dr. No, Die Another Day, Live and Let Die, For Your Eyes Only, From Russia with Love, and Thunderball. Each film will receive a frame-by-frame restoration by film restoration group Lowery Digital Images.
For the past year and nearly a half, Sony's Casino Royale was the only Bond film available on Blu-ray. These six will bring the total to seven, with Quantum of Solace likely to join them early next year.
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RELATED NEWS ...........
QUOTE:
LOS ANGELES – June 18, 2008 – The world´s most well known secret agent and his bevy of babes are even hotter in high definition when six, must-have, classic James Bond films debut worldwide on Blu-ray Disc -- (OCT. 21 North America / OCT. 20 UK/International) -- from MGM and Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment.
Recently restored and re-mastered for the highest quality picture and sound quality via the state-of-the-art Lowry process digital frame-by-frame restoration and featuring special features galore, Bond is primed for Blu-ray Disc with a selection of 007 adventures spanning the storied career of cinema´s most recognizable spy. Bond titles arriving on Blu-ray Disc, timed to the highly anticipated worldwide theatrical premiere of the 22nd James Bond mission QUANTUM OF SOLACE this November, include DR. NO, DIE ANOTHER DAY, LIVE AND LET DIE, FOR YOUR EYES ONLY, FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE and THUNDERBALL.
The world´s most successful film franchise, Bond… James Bond has generated more than one billion in global box office gross and boasts an astounding 98% global consumer awareness. CASINO ROYALE, the most recent James Bond film starring Daniel Craig, debuted on BD March 2007, and continues to rank as one of the best selling Blu-ray Disc releases to-date.
"With QUANTUM OF SOLACE on the horizon, Bond fever is building once again and there is no better time to re-introduce these beloved films featuring the best picture and sound quality available today to the 60 million+ HD-capable households worldwide," said Eric Doctorow, General Manager Worldwide, MGM Home Entertainment.
COVER ART:
(http://mi6.co.uk/sections/dvd/bluray/dn.jpg) (http://mi6.co.uk/sections/dvd/bluray/frwl.jpg)
(http://mi6.co.uk/sections/dvd/bluray/tb.jpg) (http://mi6.co.uk/sections/dvd/bluray/lald.jpg)
(http://mi6.co.uk/sections/dvd/bluray/fyeo.jpg) (http://mi6.co.uk/sections/dvd/bluray/dad.jpg)
source: http://mi6.co.uk/sections/articles/dvd_bluray_phase1.php3?t=&s=&id=01960
Hmmm.. I think I'll be starting my blu with these... ::)
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James Bond three-pack BDs available for pre-order at amazon .... ;D
1. James Bond Blu-ray Collection Three-Pack, Vol. 1 (Dr. No / Die Another Day / Live and Let Die)
HERE (http://www.amazon.com/James-Blu-ray-Collection-Three-Pack-Another/dp/B001CXYDO8/ref=pd_bxgy_d_text_b)
2. James Bond Blu-ray Collection Three-Pack, Vol.2 (For Your Eyes Only / From Russia with Love / Thunderball)
HERE (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001CXYEVA?ie=UTF8&tag=themanroomcom-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B001CXYEVA)
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COVER ART:
(http://mi6.co.uk/sections/dvd/bluray/dn.jpg) (http://mi6.co.uk/sections/dvd/bluray/frwl.jpg)
(http://mi6.co.uk/sections/dvd/bluray/tb.jpg) (http://mi6.co.uk/sections/dvd/bluray/lald.jpg)
(http://mi6.co.uk/sections/dvd/bluray/fyeo.jpg) (http://mi6.co.uk/sections/dvd/bluray/dad.jpg)
source: http://mi6.co.uk/sections/articles/dvd_bluray_phase1.php3?t=&s=&id=01960
Hmmm.. I think I'll be starting my blu with these... ::)
Wowee! nice covers :D
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Iron Man to kick off fourth quarter:
Hit movie reportedly to be released Sept. 30 on DVD, Blu-ray
JULY 21 | Retail sources said Paramount Home Entertainment will release summer blockbuster Iron Man to Blu-ray Disc and DVD on Sept. 30, confirming Internet reports of the street date on sites including The Digital Bits and Blu-ray.com.
Amazon.com is currently accepting pre-orders on Iron Man and lists the title as being offered in three different SKUs, though the site does not give a street date. According to Amazon, the movie will arrive at retail in a two-disc special edition and single-disc version, listed at $39.99 and $34.99, respectively, in standard-definition DVD. The Blu-ray Iron Man is listed at $39.99.
Paramount has not formally announced a street date for the hit superhero flick, which is the highest-grossing summer movie in the U.S. at $314 million. A studio spokeswoman said release plans are not confirmed.
The title will be hyped at this week’s Comic-Con, however. Marvel Studios, the production company behind Iron Man, will pass out a flash drive containing a sneak peek of the Iron Man DVD at its Comic-Con booth.
Anticipating an onslaught of blockbuster movies coming to shelves throughout the holidays, retailers believe Paramount is smart to release Iron Man early in the season.
“I think retail is delighted to have a wealth of product coming, but the concern is how the title releases will cannibalize the one prior,” said one source. “Last year, Spider-Man [3] kicked off [the fourth quarter] at end of October. Now we’re excited that Paramount is coming out early. They will have a couple of weeks to themselves. That’s good for Iron Man.”
Other hot summer movies that will jockey for holiday shelf space include Paramount’s Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull and Kung Fu Panda, from DreamWorks Animation. Those titles have so far grossed $313 million and $207 million, respectively. Retailers expect Crystal Skull in October and Kung Fu Panda in November.
http://www.videobusiness.com/article/CA6580245.html?desc=topstory
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Blu-ray Sales Up 300%
No need to worry about Blu-ray format say industry experts. BD titles have already sold over $200 million in 2008.
(http://www.electronichouse.com/images/uploads/2008MidYearOverall-SMALL.jpg)
First the bad news - the U.S. economy ain’t all roses lately. The good news? Home entertainment spending is rolling right along with over $6 billion spent on DVD on Blu-ray discs alone. Add in rentals and that number climbs to over $10 billion. That’s quite a relief for industry execs who had braced themselves (and the Blu-ray format) for a rough ride through 2008.
Why the success? Experts suggest that given the high cost of going out (dinner, drinks, movies) the home theater experience has become more attractive and certainly more frugal. “It’s a bit reminiscent of the last recession during the ’90s, when consumers were also not going out as much and wanted a home entertainment experience,” says Craig Kornblau, president of Universal Studios Home Entertainment. “I think it’s extraordinary that the business is holding up this well, given how much of consumers’ dollars are being sucked up by increases in gas and food.”
Lori MacPherson, general manager for Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment, North America adds “I think people are becoming pickier on what they spend their money on, but home entertainment always represents a good value. Thirty dollars for a Blu-ray movie that you can watch over and over again is still a great value.”
I could argue the $30 price point, and i suspect most consumers would agree that $15-20 would be a better sweet spot for our wallets. However, Blu-ray is gaining ground and many consumers are obviously comfortable with the current pricing, players included. According to Mike Dunn of 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment, “We are trending 8% Blu-ray sales [per title], and at the end of the year, we will be between 10% and 12%.”
He added retailers are expanding their Blu-ray shelves without eliminating standard DVD inventory and noted that market has widened 5% in the last year over the same period the prior 12 months. Indeed, Dunn’s estimates ring true as Blu-ray sales (discs) generated more than $200 million in the first half of this year - a 300% increase over this point in 2007.
The future of Blu-ray has been beaten every which way but loose here on EH, but regardless of format preferences, it’s notable that the new kid on the media block has done so well in such a hostile environment.
http://www.electronichouse.com/article/blu_ray_sales_up_300 (http://www.electronichouse.com/article/blu_ray_sales_up_300)
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Sony Previews 'Ghostbusters' Blu-ray Plans at Comic-Con
'Ghostbusters' fans attending Comic-Con this weekend could get a sneak peek at an apparently October-bound Blu-ray release of the '80s comedy classics.
According to various fan and website reports coming in from Comic-Con (which officially kicks off tomorrow in San Diego), a Sony Blu-ray booth on the show floor is currently touting an October 21 Blu-ray street date for both 'Ghostbusters' and 'Ghostbusters 2,' complete with a large overhead banner advertisement (featuring the tagline "Get Slimed in High-Def!")
There's currently no further word on potential supplemental features on the planned Blu-ray version of the 'Ghostbusters' films, nor any tech specs or other specifics.
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Sony/Disc_Announcements/Sony_Previews_Ghostbusters_Blu-ray_Plans_at_Comic-Con/1931 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Sony/Disc_Announcements/Sony_Previews_Ghostbusters_Blu-ray_Plans_at_Comic-Con/1931)
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X-Files 2 Blu-ray Details Emerge
Posted July 23, 2008 @ bluray.com
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/38e827bd.jpg)
Movies Online recently caught up with Frank Spotnitz to discuss some of the features on the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'The-X Files: I Want to Believe', which hits theaters this Friday. Initially, he was shocked with the regards to the ability of Blu-ray. He commented, "I had no idea what Blu-Ray could do. I thought it was just a higher definition picture, but it's much more than that."
Spotnitz continued, "We are trying to think of every possible way to exploit the Blu-Ray medium. Those discussions are still continuing. We've been working on the Blu-Ray and the DVD release for months already."
When asked about what special features fans could look forward to, he revealed, "It's going to be packed with a lot of bonus features. I'm sure they'll want to announce what is on them specifically, but there will be a gag reel, a making of, as there always are, multiple commentaries, both audio and video that you can access in a unique way because it's Blu-Ray. We are going to take advantage of the online feature in a way we haven't determined yet. There are deleted scenes. There is an extended version of the movie, then there are deleted scenes. I'm going to get it wrong if I try to tell you which scenes are going into which. There will be a lot of extras."
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The Ultimate Matrix Collection to make Blu-ray debut on October 14th
(http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/4642/72408matrixblurayf5b65yx3.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
We've already Windexed our spectacles and hit refresh a time or two, and yes, The Matrix is finally -- finally! -- headed to Blu-ray. We've wondered when we'd see this go down for what seems like eons, but thanks to new data (including box art) over at DVD Active, Warner Home Video will finally loose The Ultimate Matrix Collection on BD on October 14th. The $129.95 set will include seven discs, though we're not certain what extras will surround the films themselves. Start saving those pennies, you know you'll want this one.
http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/07/24/the-ultimate-matrix-collection-to-make-blu-ray-debut/
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The Ultimate Matrix Collection to make Blu-ray debut on October 14th
(http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/4642/72408matrixblurayf5b65yx3.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
We've already Windexed our spectacles and hit refresh a time or two, and yes, The Matrix is finally -- finally! -- headed to Blu-ray. We've wondered when we'd see this go down for what seems like eons, but thanks to new data (including box art) over at DVD Active, Warner Home Video will finally loose The Ultimate Matrix Collection on BD on October 14th. The $129.95 set will include seven discs, though we're not certain what extras will surround the films themselves. Start saving those pennies, you know you'll want this one.
http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/07/24/the-ultimate-matrix-collection-to-make-blu-ray-debut/
Finally!!! and on my birthday pa.. hehehe..
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To add to the groundbreaking news above... on HighDef Digest. Even if I already have the HD-DVD version, this one's quite a 'tempt.' 8)
'Ultimate Matrix' Blu-ray Coming in October
Fri Jul 25, 2008 at 01:23 PM ET
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/6/6443/original.jpeg)
Ending months of anticipation, Warner has confirmed a mid-October Blu-ray release for the 'The Ultimate Matrix Collection.'
Long one of Warner's most oft-requested Blu-ray "catch up" titles, the studio previously released the 'Matrix' films on HD DVD in two expansive box sets, the five-disc 'Complete Matrix Trilogy' and the even more extensive seven-disc 'Ultimate Matrix Collection.'
Now Warner has finally earmarked an October 14 Blu-ray arrival for 'The Ultimate Matrix Collection,' which will replicate the seven-disc configuration of the HD DVD version. (At presstime, Warner has not announced a companion 'Complete Matrix Trilogy' release for Blu-ray.)
Full specs for Blu-ray box set have not yet been revealed, but preliminary details tout "35 hours of extras" and In-Movie Experience picture-in-picture commentaries for all three films, and the full supplement package is expected to match those found on the HD DVD version.
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/6/6444/original.jpeg)
Additional confirmed upgrades to the Blu-ray include a full 1080p presentation of 'The Animatrix' (the HD DVD was standard-def only) as well as a Digital Copy of the original 'Matrix.'
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray is $129.98.
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Additonal info on the James Bond BD series mentioned above - from HighDef Digest:
MGM Unwraps James Bond Blu-ray Art
Fri Jul 25, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
Tags: High-Def Disc Packaging, MGM, James Bond (all tags)
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/6/6432/original.jpeg)
MGM has unveiled a first look at the box art for the first six titles in its upcoming James Bond Blu-ray collection.
As previously reported, MGM made 007 fans really happy last month when it announced it was bringing its first wave of classic James Bond titles to Blu-ray on October 21 (day-and-date with new standard DVD re-issues).
Spanning all four decades of Bond, the six titles include 'Dr. No,' 'From Russia with Love,' 'Thunderball,' 'Live and Let Die,' 'For Your Eyes Only' and 'Die Another Day.'
MGM will also package the six titles in a pair of three-pack bundles, with the 'James Bond Blu-ray Collection Three-Pack: Volume 1' featuring 'From Russia with Love,' 'Thunderball' and 'For Your Eyes Only,' and the 'James Bond Blu-ray Collection Three-Pack: Volume 2' with 'Dr. No,' 'Live and Let Die' and 'Die Another Day.'
Although MGM still has not released any tech specs or supplement details as of yet, they have issued a teaser of what's to come with full-res box art images for the six stand-alone Bond titles:
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/6/6435/original.jpeg)(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/6/6436/original.jpeg)(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/6/6437/original.jpeg)(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/6/6438/original.jpeg)(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/6/6439/original.jpeg)(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/6/6434/original.jpeg)
Suggested list price for the stand-alone Bond titles has been set at $34.95 a pop, and $89.95 for each 3-pack bundle.
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more info on the James Bond BDs ..... ;D
BOND BD TITLES ALSO COME IN BOXED SETS
The Bond BD titles (mentioned above) are sold either separately, or in boxed sets ....
The James Bond Collection Volume One includes Dr. No, Live and Let Die, and Die Another Day.
SRP: $62.95.
The James Bond Collection Volume Two includes From Russia With Love, Thunderball, and For Your Eyes Only.
SRP: $62.95.
;D ;D ;D
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Details of the Bond BD titles .....
Dr. No
* The Complete Special Features Library: Mission Dossier - Audio Commentary Featuring Director Terence Young and Members of the Cast and Crew
* Top Level Access 007: License to Restore - Featurette Detailing the Bond Ultimate Edition Film Restoration Process
* Declassified: M16 Vault - The Guns of James Bond
* Premiere Bond
* 007 Mission Control - Interactive Guide Into the World of Dr. No
* Inside Dr. No
* Terence Young: Bond Vivant
* Dr. No 1963 Featurette
* Ministry of Propaganda - Original Trailers, TV Spots, Photo Gallery and Radio Communications
Die Another Day
* The Complete Special Features Library: Mission Dossier - Audio Commentary Featuring Director Lee Tamahori and Producer Michael G. Wilson
* Audio Commentary Featuring Pierce Brosnan and Rosamund Pike
* Declassified: M16 Vault - From Script to Screen
* Shaken and Stirred on Ice
* Just Another Day
* The British Touch: Bond Arrives in London
* On Location With Peter Lamont
* 007 Mission Control - Interactive Guide Into the World of Die Another Day
* MI6 DataStream
* Additional DVD-ROM Features Available!
* Madonna's Die Another Day Music Video
* Ministry of Propaganda Photo gallery
Live and Let Die
* Audio Commentary Featuring Sir Roger Moore
* The Complete Special Features Library: Mission Dossier - Audio Commentary Featuring Guy Hamilton
* Audio Commentary Featuring Tom Mankiewicz
* Declassified: M16 Vault - Bond 1973: The Lost Documentary
* Roger Moore as James Bond, Circa 1964
* Live and Let Die Conceptual Art
* 007 Mission Control - Interactive Guide Into the World of Live and Let Die
* Inside Live and Let Die
* On Set With Roger Moore
* Ministry of Propaganda - Original Trailers, TV Spots, Photo Gallery and Radio Communications
For Your Eyes Only
* Audio Commentary Featuring Sir Roger Moore
* The Complete Special Features Library: Mission Dossier - Audio Commentary Featuring John Glen and Actors
* Audio Commentary Featuring Michael G Wilson and Crew
* Declassified: M16 Vault - Deleted Scenes and Expanded Angles
* Bond in Greece, Bond in Cortina
* Neptune's Journey
* 007 Mission Control - Interactive Guide Into the World of For Your Eyes Only
* Inside For Your Eyes Only
* Animated Storyboard Sequences
* Sheena Easton's For Your Eyes Only Music Video
* Ministry of Propaganda - Original Trailers, TV Spots, Photo Gallery and Radio Communications
From Russia With Love
* The Complete Special Features Library: Mission Dossier - Audio Commentary Featuring Director Terence Young and Members of the Cast and Crew
* Declassified: M16 Vault - Ian Fleming: The CBC Interview
* Ian Fleming and Raymond Chandler
* Ian Fleming on Desert Island Discs
* Animated Storyboard Sequence
* 007 Mission Control - Interactive Guide Into the World of From Russia With Love
* Inside From Russia With Love
* Harry Saltzman: Showman
* Ministry of Propaganda - Original Trailers, TV Spots, Photo Gallery and Radio Communications
Thunderball
* The Complete Special Features Library: Mission Dossier - Audio Commentary Featuring Terence Young and Others
* Audio Commentary Featuring Peter Hunt, John Hopkins and Others
* Declassified: M16 Vault - The Incredible World of James Bond - Original 1965 NBC Television Special
* A Child's Guide to Blowing Up a Motor Car - 1965 Ford Promotional Film On Location With Ken Adam
* Bill Suitor: The Rocket Man Movies
* Thunderball Boat Show Reel
* Selling Bonds - Original 1965 Television Advertisements
* 007 Mission Control - Interactive Guide Into the World of Thunderball
* The Making of Thunderball
* The Thunderball Phenomenon
* The Secret History of Thunderball
* Ministry of Propaganda - Original Trailers, TV Spots, Photo Gallery and Radio Communications
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Sony to Double Dip 'Casino Royale' Blu-ray in October
Ending months of rumors, Sony Pictures has confirmed that James Bond will return for a double dip of 'Casino Royale,' which will hit Blu-ray this October as a two-disc collector's edition.
Originally released on high-def in March 2007 to big sales, 'Casino Royale' has long been rumored to receive the deluxe treatment thanks to the original release's relatively paltry bonus features.
Now Sony has confirmed an October 21 street date for the 'Casino Royale: Collector's Edition' Blu-ray, day-and-date with a new DVD re-issue.
The two-disc set will sport tech specs similar to the previous edition, with the film presented in 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and uncompressed PCM 5.1 Surround audio, and new to the special edition, a Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround option.
Extras are extensive, with the set including a pair of cast & crew audio commentaries (participants TBA), a suite of documentaries ("Becoming Bond," "James Bond: For Real," "Bond Girls are Forever"), an additional pair of featurettes ("The Road to Casino Royale," "Ian Fleming: The Secret Road to Paradise"), six deleted scenes, two storyboard presentations, filmmaker profiles, and the Chris Cornell music video for "You Know My Name."
The Blu-ray release will also feature an e-Movie Cash ticket for the upcoming 22nd James Bond adventure, 'Quantum of Solace.'
Suggested list price for the two-disc Blu-ray has been set at $38.95.
SOURCE (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/James_Bond/Sony/Disc_Announcements/Sony_to_Double_Dip_Casino_Royale_Blu-ray_in_October/1950)
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Kung Fu Panda Coming this Winter
Dreamworks Animation has revealed during a second quarter analyst call that they would release 'Kung Fu Panda' on Blu-ray this winter, but could not go into further details due to contractual obligations with Toshiba. Turns out that half of the second-quarter revenue generated by 'Kung Fu Panda', about $23M, was in the form of a direct contribution from Toshiba Corp in support of HD DVD. :P
Once those contractual obligations are lifted, Dreamworks will discuss more details about the upcoming Blu-ray release.
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=1591
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Planet of the Apes Officially Announced
Fox Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'Planet Of The Apes: 40 Year Evolution Blu-ray Collection' to Blu-ray on November 4th. The set, which features all five original 'Planet of the Apes' films, will feature BD-50s utilizing 2.35:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
The five films - 'Planet Of The Apes', 'Beneath The Planet Of The Apes', 'Escape From The Planet Of The Apes', 'Conquest Of The Planet Of The Apes', and 'Battle For The Planet Of The Apes' - have all been specially prepared for this release, including a never-before-seen in the US unrated version of 'Conquest of the Planet of the Apes'.
Extras for this release will all be presented in stunning high definition. They include:
* Science of the Apes BONUSVIEW - Scientists, anthropologists and sociologists discuss the facts and fiction of the first film (BD Exclusive)
* "Beyond the Forbidden Zone" Adventure Game (BD Exclusive)
* " A Public Service Announcement From ANSA" in HD - A mission report from the agency regarding their brave astronauts (BD Exclusive)
* "Evolution of the Apes"- HD featurette tracing the apes story from the original novel to the screen (BD Exclusive)
* "Impact of the Apes" - HD featurette on how to market a worldwide pop culture phenomenon. The story behind the marketing and merchandising of one of the first ever film franchises and the series' lasting influence on pop culture through the years (BD Exclusive)
* HD Making-of Featurette for Each Sequel (BD Exclusive):
-Beneath the Planet of the Apes - "From Alpha to Omega: Building a Sequel"
-Escape from the Planet of the Apes - "The Secret Behind Escape"
-Conquest of the Planet of the Apes - "Riots and Revolutions: Confronting the Times"
-Battle for the Planet of the Apes - "End of an Epic: The Final Battle"
* Each Apes sequel will have an isolated score track in 5.1 DTS Master Audio (BD Exclusive)
* Commentary by Composer Jerry Goldsmith
* Commentary by Actors Roddy McDowall, Natalie Trundy, Kim Hunter and Makeup Artist John Chambers
* Text Commentary by Eric Greene and Author of "Planet of the Apes as American Myth"
* Behind the Planet of the Apes Documentary - Includes all new interactivity and timeline
* Behind the Planet of the Apes Promo (1988)
* Planet of the Apes Makeup Test with Edward G. Robinson (1966)
* Roddy McDowall On-set Footage
* Planet of the Apes Dailies and Outtakes (No Audio)
* Planet of the Apes NATO Presentation (1967)
* Planet of the Apes Vintage Featurette (1968)
* A Look Behind the Planet of the Apes (1972)
* Don Taylor Directs Escape from the Planet of the Apes
* J. Lee Thompson Directs Conquest of the Planet of the Apes
* Six Original Theatrical Trailers
* Original Sketches by Costume Designer Morton Haack
* Photo Gallery
* Planet of the Apes Timeline
* Interactive Pressbooks
* Vintage Apes Newspaper Galleries
* Advertising and Lobby Card Galleries
* Behind-the-Scenes Galleries
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=1592
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Amazon's Disney Blu-ray Sale
Amazon kicked off a new Blu-ray promotion this week, offering 72 Disney titles at significant savings. On sale price ranges from $17.95 - $20.95.
For the complete list of titles- go here..
http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html?ie=UTF8&docId=1000257861&tag=panandscathed-20&linkcode=ur2 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html?ie=UTF8&docId=1000257861&tag=panandscathed-20&linkcode=ur2)
Bili na! Pakyaw na!
source:
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Amazon_Kicks_Off_Disney_Blu-ray_Sale/1954 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Amazon_Kicks_Off_Disney_Blu-ray_Sale/1954)
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Sex and the City Movie Coming to Blu-ray
posted 01 August 2008
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New Line and Warner Home Video have announced the Sex and the City movie is coming to Blu-ray Disc on September 23 in a special edition configuration, day-and-date with DVD.
The Sex and the City movie marks the first big-screen appearance for Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Kristen Davis and Cynthia Nixon after the show ended its run on HBO. It raked in a whopping $151 million, more than double its production budget of $65 million, and has sparked talks of a sequel.
No additional details about the release are available at this time. With a special edition tag you can expect a healthy serving of supplements.
Sex and the City on Blu-ray carries an SRP of $35.99. High resolution cover art will be posted once available. Available for pre-order at Amazon.com
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"YOU DON'T MESS WITH THE ZOHAN" BD SLATED FOR OCTOBER RELEASE
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Sony Pictures Home Entertainment announced the US Blu-ray Disc release of You Don’t Mess With The Zohan on 7th October 2008 priced at $38.96 SRP. Adam Sandler stars in as The Zohan, the finest counterterrorist agent the Israeli army has. That is, until he fakes his death and travels to Manhattan to live his dream...as a hairdresser. Now this skilled fighting machine who used to clip bad guys is out to prove he can make the cut as a top stylist. All goes silky smooth until his cover is blown when he's recognized by a Palestinian cab driver (Rob Schneider). Now, The Zohan must fight to live a peaceful new life in New York in this action-comedy from Adam Sandler, Robert Smigel, Judd Apatow and Dennis Dugan.
Arriving day-and-date, region coding and full specs are TBC. What is known, however, is that the Blu-ray Disc looks to offer both the Rated (113mins) and Unrated (117mins) cuts alongside all of the extras from the DVD editions plus an exclusive graphics picture-in-picture track.
Extras include:
* Laughing is Contagious
* Disco Break
* Shooting Baja for Tel Aviv
* Getting Sticky
* Look Who Stopped By
* Zohan's Doubles
* All American Redneck
* Commentary with Director Dennis Dugan
* Dugan: The Hand's on Director
* The Stunts of Zohan
* Dugan Espanol?
* Zohan vs. The Phantom
* From Guns to Scissors
* News on 3: Breaking News Reports
* The Robot
* Deleted Scenes & Alternate Takes
* Translating the Zohan Graphics-in-Picture Track (BD EXCLUSIVE)
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Poltergeist, Interview with the Vampire to Haunt Blu-ray in October
Warner Home Video has announced a pair of coveted catalog horror titles are coming to Blu-ray Disc in October.
On October 7, Interview with the Vampire starring Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt and Kirsten Dunst will be released in a standard jewel case. It will carry an SRP of $28.99.
A week later on October 14 will see the release of Poltergeist: 25th Anniversary Edition. This set, housed in a digibook case with never-before-available photos, is modeled after last year's anniversary DVD set. Like that set it includes the new documentary They Are Here: The Real World of Poltergeists Revealed, as well as a "digital transfer from regenerated picture elements." The SRP on Poltergeist is $34.99.
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Woodstock: 3 Days of Peace & Music (Ultimate Collector’s Edition) to be released on BD
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Warner Home Video announced the US Blu-ray Disc release of Woodstock: 3 Days of Peace & Music (Ultimate Collector’s Edition) on 28th July 2009 (yes, it's 2009, folks!). Celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Woodstock music festival this restored and remastered release will include more than an hour of newly discovered Festival performances, some never-before-published in their entirety, from a number of artists, including The Who, Joe Cocker, Canned Heat, Joan Baez, Country Joe McDonald and Country Joe and the Fish with more to be announced. The release will incorporate reflections and perspectives from musicians, celebrities, influencers and other giants in the entertainment industry on the cultural significance of Woodstock 40 years later.
The Ultimate Collector’s Edition will include the four-hour Director’s Cut, remastered from original elements and scanned at 2K with audio 5.1 mix supervised by director Michael Wadleigh. The concert original chief engineer Eddie Kramer who was on-site for the festival, is overseeing the audio mix of all of the recently found added footage. In addition to filmmaker commentary, replicas of handwritten notes from Festival attendees, The ‘60s and the Woodstock Generation - a 40 minute documentary film by noted filmmaker Robert Kline adapted from his book “Children of the 60s,”, studio archive letters and other souvenir collectible items.
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Mummy 3 Will Look and Sound Better on Blu-ray
posted 07 August 2008 @ bluray.com
In an interview with Home Media Magazine, Rob Cohen, director of 'The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor', is telling fans that the film will look and sound better on Blu-ray than in the theaters. He is confident about this because of his use of a digital-intermediate print during post production, where he tweaked the film print in order to ensure perfect quality.
Cohen commented, "Things that are dimensional, like the dragon lunging at the camera, in Blu-ray really knock your head off because you are seeing all the details we put in it that are even a little better defined. The dark/light values are better so you can be darker and still see all the detail. Plus you have many more layers of ancillary material, and much more information."
The director also is confident that "it will sound better on that Blu-ray than in any theater in America" due to the fact that he can master the sound for a home theater experience.
So excited about the Blu-ray format, Cohen is actively looking to bring his other films, such as 'Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story' and 'The Fast and the Furious' to Blu-ray soon.
This isn't the first time we have heard such claims from a director, and it surely won't be the last. Blu-ray allows filmmakers to give a controlled digital presentation in a home theater that is often superior to the presentations found at local theaters.
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Warner Plans 'Shawshank Redemption' Blu-ray for November (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Disc_Announcements/Warner_Plans_Shawshank_Redemption_Blu-ray_for_November_/1502)
...and in Digibook packaging ;) This is a must buy for me with JFK
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Ironman Blu-ray Cover Art
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Warner Announces Casablanca Coming to Blu-ray in December
posted 11 August 2008
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QUOTE:
Warner Home Video has announced the latest previously HD DVD exclusive coming to Blu-ray Disc is Casablanca, scheduled for an Ultimate Collector's Edition update on December 2.
The two-disc set is packaged in an "intricate laser-cut Moroccan design" box and loaded with goodies such as reproductions of executive memos and props, a branded passport holder, luggage tag, photo book and mail-in offer for a movie poster. The memos and props include the following:
* Memo from Hal Wallis that Casablanca is the new title
* Memo from Wallis to Jack Warner strongly urging casting of Bogart over
* Letter from Publicity head Charles Einfeld to publicist Marty Weiser to "sell" Bogart as a romantic lead
* Victor Laszlo's "letter of transit"
Over seven hours of supplemental features are packed onto the disc as outlined below.
* Behind the Story
o Introduction by Lauren Bacall
o Commentary by film critic Roger Ebert
o Commentary by film historian/author Rudy Behlmer
o 1988 TCM special: Bacall on Bogart [Laurel Bacall's candid and moving reminiscences about her husband’s life and career]
o You Must Remember This: A Tribute to Casablanca [Bacall hosts this spellbinding backstage tour]
o As Time Goes By: The Children Remember [Stephen Bogart and Pia Lindstrom remember their parents, Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman]
o Production history gallery
* Additional Footage
o Deleted scenes
o Outtakes
o Who Holds Tomorrow? Premiere episode from the 1955 Warner Bros. Presents series, starring Charles McGraw
o 1995 WB Cartoon: Carrotblanca
* Audio
o Scoring Stage Sessions
o Knock on Wood Alternate Version, Wilson with Piano
o As Time Goes By Part One Alternate Take, Wilson with Piano
o As Time Goes By Part One Film Version, Wilson with Piano
o Rick Sees Ilsa Instrumental Medley
o As Time Goes By Part Two Alternate Take, Wilson with Piano
o As Time Goes By Part Two Film Version, Wilson with Piano
o At La Belle Aurore Instrumental Medley
o Dat's What Noah Done Outtake, Wilson with Piano
o April 26,1943 Screen Guild Players Radio Broadcast
* Trailers
o Theatrical trailer
o 1992 re-release trailer
* 1993 documentary: Jack L. Warner: The Last Mogul
We expect the technical specs to be identical to the previously released HD DVD which were a widescreen 1.37:1 1080p transfer and Dolby Digital Plus 1.0 audio.
Casablanca: Ultimate Collector's Edition on Blu-ray will carry an SRP of $64.99.
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Indiana Jones Comes to Blu-ray in October
Paramount Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull' to Blu-ray on October 14th, day-and-date with the DVD release. No technical specs have been announced at this time, though you can expect the typical 1080p AVC video and Dolby TrueHD treatment from Paramount.
Extras will include a segment on how the new movie evolved over its long development period; a production diary including glimpses of location shoots in New Mexico, Connecticut and Hawaii; and segments on makeup, visual effects and the crystal skulls at the heart of the action.
It was also revealed that while a DVD box set with all four Indiana Jones films will also be released, there are currently no plans to bring the remainder of the series to Blu-ray
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=1646
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Paramount Offers $10 Discount for Blu-ray Upgrade
Posted: 14 August 2008 @ homemediamagazine.com
Paramount Home Entertainment is set to offer DVD collectors a $10 rebate when they upgrade select Paramount and DreamWorks titles to Blu-ray Disc.
Mail-in certificates will be available in the packages for Blu-ray copies of Transformers, The Godfather, Old School, Stardust, Sweeney Todd and Zodiac. To receive the $10 savings, consumers must fill out the certificate and include the proof-of-purchase tabs from both the DVD and Blu-ray versions of the title, along with the receipt for the Blu-ray version. The purchase must be made by Dec. 31, 2009, and rebate requests must be postmarked by Jan. 31, 2010.
Transformers streets on Blu-ray Sept. 2, with The Godfather: The Coppola Restoration due Sept. 23 and Sweeney Todd Oct. 21.
Street dates for Blu-ray versions of Old School, Stardust and Zodiac have not yet been announced.
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Universal 'Gangster' titles on BD in October
Universal Studios Home Video announced the Blu-ray Disc release of three gangster titles on 14th October 2008. Ridley Scott’s American Gangster, Martin Scorsese’s Casino and David Cronenberg’s Eastern Promises will be priced at $29.98 SRP each or will be available as part of a three-pack Gangsters set priced at $89.98 SRP.
Features are detailed below…
American Gangster
* BD-50 Dual Layer
* Theatrical (158mins) and Extended (177mins) Cuts
* 1080P Widescreen
* English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio
* French 5.1 DTS Surround (Theatrical Cut only)
* English SDH, French and Spanish subtitles
* U-Control Picture in Picture (Unrated Cut)
* Commentary with Director Ridley Scott and Writer Steven Zaillian (Theatrical Cut)
* Deleted Scenes
* Fallen Empire: Making American Gangster
* Case Files
* Hip-Hop Infusion Featuring Common and T.I.
* The BET Special: The Making of American Gangster
* Dateline NBC: American Gangster First Look
* "Do You Feel Me (Remix)" performed by Anthony Hamilton featuring Ghostface Killah
* "Blue Magic" from Jay-Z's Album "American Gangster"
* Theatrical Trailer
Casino
* BD-50 Dual Layer
* 1080P Widescreen
* English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio
* Spanish 5.1 DTS Surround
* English SDH, French and Spanish subtitles
* Feature Audio Commentary - Moments with Martin Scorsese, Sharon Stone, Nicholas Pileggi and more
* U-Control Picture in Picture
* Deleted Scenes
* Vegas and the Mob
* History Alive: True Crime Authors: Casino With Nicholas Pileggi (The History Channel)
* My Scenes
Eastern Promises
* BD-25 Single Layer
* 1080P Widescreen
* English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio
* French and Spanish 5.1 DTS Surround
* English SDH, French and Spanish subtitles
* Secrets and Stories
* Marked for Life
* Two Guys Walk into a Bath House
* Watts on Wheels
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The Austin Powers Collection: Shagadelic Edition BD on 02 December
Loaded With Extra Mojo, the Blu-ray set will include Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery, Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me and Austin Powers: Goldmember.
None of the Austin Powers films will be available separately on Blu-ray Disc. If you want the debut of Mini-Me, you'll have to take Goldmember with it.
The previous New Line Platinum Series Austin Powers DVD releases were loaded with extra features that will make their way onto Blu-ray. The extensive list is as follows.
Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery
* Behind the Story
o Commentary with star/writer Mike Myers and director Jay Roach
* Additional Footage
o Original ending #1
o Original ending #2
o The Henchman's Wife
o The Bachelor Party
o We're Called Flight Attendants
o Cheeses of the World Series
o Fendi Briefcase
* Music
o "Music to Shag To" - Animated sequence with a retro 60s background that has spliced together stills of Austin Powers and Vanessa dancing to a piece of the musical score
* Trailers
o Theatrical trailer
Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me
* Behind the Story
o Commentary with star/writer Mike Myers, director Jay Roach and co-writer Michael McCullers
o Comedy Central's The Dr. Evil Story - Faux biography-like documentary detailing the history of Dr. Evil
o Behind the Scenes of AustinPowers The Spy Who Shagged Me - Featurette detailing various aspects of the film's characters, costumes and plot
* Additional Footage
o Secrets
o Trading Compliment
o Extra Foam
o Nanook
o Who Wants to Eat Him
o Be Strong
o Mini-Me and Number 2
o How do you do?
o A Chair Problem
o Ambush
o A Table Problem
o Drink?
o Number 2 and Fat Bastard
o Being Cautious
o Mini-Me Bites
o Odor Problem
o You Are So Beautiful
o Sexy Detector
o Arbitrary Orders
o 2 Plus 2
o Montage
* Music
o Madonna - Beautiful Stranger
o Lenny Kravitz - American Woman
o Melanie B (aka Scary Spice) - Word Up
o Dr. Evil and Mini-Me - Just the Two of Us
* Trailers
o Teaser A
o Teaser B
o Theatrical trailer
Austin Powers in Goldmember
* Behind the Story
o Commentary with star/writer Mike Myers and director Jay Roach
o Fact Track - Subtitle track with trivia and fun facts
o MI-6: International Men of Mystery - Featurette on the real British MI-6
o English, English – Origins of the "English English" slang used between Austin Powers and his dad
o Disco Fever – Featurette on revisiting 70s culture and music in Goldmember
o Fashion vs. Fiction – Featurette on creating elaborate retro costumes in Goldmember
o Jay Roach & Mike Myers: Creative Convergence - Process of Mike Myers immersing himself in multiple film characters
o Confluence of Characters - Behind the scenes with the actors and their interpretations of their respective characters
+ Goldmember
+ Foxxy Cleopatra
+ Nigel Powers
+ Master Powers and Evil
o Opening Stunts
o The Cars of Austin Powers - A look at the creative and retro cars from different eras in Goldmember
o Anatomy of Three Scenes - Comprehensive behind the scenes look at three scenes
+ Dancing at the Gates
+ Roller Disco
+ Sumo Battle
o Visual Effects Featurettes
+ Introduction - Details step by step creation of various VFX scenes within the movie
+ Play Scene - Shows a car entering the Dr. Evil sub through various stages of CG. Same segment repeats, each time showing more CGI added to the scene
* Additional Footage - Fifteen deleted scenes with optional commentary by director Jay Roach
o Tops and Bottoms
o Post Knighting
o Book Covers
o New Man of the Lair
o More from the Belly of the Beast
o Idiot Convention
o Nigel on Goldmember
o More Fooks
o Hello Mahza, Hello Fahza
o More Fat Bastard
o More Fahza
o Dr. Evil has the Con
o Musical Number
o Bad Reaction to the Sharks
o Outtake Montage
* Music
o Beyoncé - Work it Out
o Britney Spears - Boys
o Ming Tea - Daddy Wasn't There
o Dr. Evil and Mini-Me - Hard Knock Life
* Trailers
o Teaser trailer #1
o Teaser trailer #2
o Teaser trailer #3
o Teaser trailer #4
o Theatrical trailer
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Release Dates & Specs for First Wave of Criterion Blu-ray Discs
QUOTE:
Criterion The Criterion Collection has posted details for their first five Blu-ray Disc titles. 'The Third Man' and 'The Man Who Fell to Earth' are set for release on November 18th, while three more titles - 'Bottle Rocket,' 'Chungking Express,' and the critically acclaimed 'The Last Emperor' - arrive one week later on the 25th. The films will be presented in their original (or director approved) aspect ratios in new high definition digital transfers, featuring lossless and Dolby Digital 5.1 audio mixes. Each title will also contain a wealth of extra features.
'The Third Man' (1949) will featured a restored high definition transfer in 1.37:1, and an uncompressed mono soundtrack. Extra features include:
# Video introduction by writer-director Peter Bogdanovich
# Two audio commentaries: one by filmmaker Steven Soderbergh and screenwriter Tony Gilroy, and one by by film scholar Dana Polan
# Shadowing "The Third Man" (2005), a ninety-minute feature documentary on the making of the film
# Abridged recording of Graham Greene's treatment, read by actor Richard Clarke
# "Graham Greene: The Hunted Man," an hour-long, 1968 episode of the BBC's Omnibus series, featuring a rare interview with the novelist
# "Who Was the Third Man? (2000)," a thirty-minute Austrian documentary featuring interviews with cast and crew
# The Third Man on the radio: the 1951 "A Ticket to Tangiers" episode of The Lives of Harry Lime series, written and performed by Orson Welles, and the 1951 Lux Radio Theatre adaptation of The Third Man
# Illustrated production history with rare behind-the-scenes photos, original UK press book, and U.S. trailer
# Actor Joseph Cotten's alternate opening voice-over narration for the U.S. version
# Archival footage of postwar Vienna
# A look at the untranslated foreign dialogue in the film
# A booklet featuring an essay by Luc Sante
'The Man Who Fell to Earth' (1976) will feature a high definition digital transfer approved by director Nicolas Roeg, and an uncompressed stereo soundtrack. Extra features include:
# Audio commentary by Roeg and actors David Bowie and Buck Henry
# New video interview with screenwriter Paul Mayersberg Performance, video interviews with actors Candy Clark and Rip Torn
# Audio interviews with costume designer May Routh and production designer Brian Eatwell
# Audio interview from 1984 with author Walter Tevis, conducted by Don Swaim
# Multiple stills galleries, including Routh's costume sketches; behind-the-scenes photos; and production and publicity stills, introduced by set photographer David James
# Gallery of posters from Roeg's films
# Trailers
# Booklet featuring an essay by critic Graham Fuller
'The Last Emperor' (1987) features a high definition digital transfer approved by cinematographer Vittorio Storaro, and a stereo track in DTS-HD Master Audio. Extras include:
# Audio commentary by director Bernardo Bertolucci, producer Jeremy Thomas, screenwriter Mark Peploe, and composer-actor Ryuichi Sakamoto
# The Italian Traveler: Bernardo Bertolucci, a 53-minute film by Fernand Mozskowicz, tracing the director's geographic influences, from Parma to China
# Video images taken by Bertolucci in China
# The Chinese Adventure of Bernardo Bertolucci, a 52-minute documentary that revisits the film's creation
# A 47-minute documentary featuring Storaro, editor Gabriella Cristiana, costume designer James Acheson, and art director Gianni Silvestri
# A 66-minute documentary exploring Bertolucci's creative process and the making of The Last Emperor
# A 30-minute interview with Bertolucci from 1989
# A new interview with composer David Byrne
# A new interview with Ian Buruma examining the historical period of the film
# Theatrical trailer
# Booklet featuring an essay by critic David Thomson
'Chungking Express' (1994) features a restored high-definition digital transfer, as well as a remastered Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtrack supervised by director Wong Kar-wai. Extras include:
# Audio commentary by noted Asian cinema critic Tony Rayns
# U.S. theatrical trailer
# New and improved English subtitle translation
# Booklet featuring a new essay by critic Amy Taubin and excerpts from a 1996 Sight and Sound interview with Wong by Rayns
'Bottle Rocket' (1996) features a new, restored transfer supervised by direct Wes Anderson and a Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtrack. Extras include:
# Commentary by director/co-writer Anderson and co-writer/actor Owen Wilson
# The Making of "Bottle Rocket": an original documentary by filmmaker Barry Braverman featuring Anderson, James L. Brooks, James Caan, Temple Nash Jr., Kumar Pallana, Polly Platt, Mark Mothersbaugh, Robert Musgrave, Richard Sakai, David and Sandy Wasco, Andrew and Luke and Owen Wilson, and Robert Yeoman
# The original thirteen-minute black-and-white Bottle Rocket short film from 1992
# Eleven deleted scenes
# Anamorphic screen test, storyboards, location photos, and behind-the-scenes photographs by Laura Wilson
# Murita Cycles, a 1978 short film by Braverman
# The Shafrazi Lectures, no. 1: Bottle Rocket
# Booklet featuring an essay by executive producer James L. Brooks, an appreciation by Martin Scorsese, and original artwork by Ian Dingman
http://www.criterion.com/asp/browse_bluray.asp
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Sony to Double Dip 'Casino Royale' Blu-ray in October
Ending months of rumors, Sony Pictures has confirmed that James Bond will return for a double dip of 'Casino Royale,' which will hit Blu-ray this October as a two-disc collector's edition.
Originally released on high-def in March 2007 to big sales, 'Casino Royale' has long been rumored to receive the deluxe treatment thanks to the original release's relatively paltry bonus features.
Now Sony has confirmed an October 21 street date for the 'Casino Royale: Collector's Edition' Blu-ray, day-and-date with a new DVD re-issue.
The two-disc set will sport tech specs similar to the previous edition, with the film presented in 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and uncompressed PCM 5.1 Surround audio, and new to the special edition, a Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround option.
Extras are extensive, with the set including a pair of cast & crew audio commentaries (participants TBA), a suite of documentaries ("Becoming Bond," "James Bond: For Real," "Bond Girls are Forever"), an additional pair of featurettes ("The Road to Casino Royale," "Ian Fleming: The Secret Road to Paradise"), six deleted scenes, two storyboard presentations, filmmaker profiles, and the Chris Cornell music video for "You Know My Name."
The Blu-ray release will also feature an e-Movie Cash ticket for the upcoming 22nd James Bond adventure, 'Quantum of Solace.'
Suggested list price for the two-disc Blu-ray has been set at $38.95.
SOURCE (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/James_Bond/Sony/Disc_Announcements/Sony_to_Double_Dip_Casino_Royale_Blu-ray_in_October/1950)
Hi-res artwork
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The Godfather, The Coppola Restoration.
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Blu-ray Release for Kung Fu Panda Revealed
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DreamWorks has revealed that they will bring their CGI animated film 'Kung Fu Panda' starring Jack Black, to Blu-ray on November 11, day-and-date with the DVD release. Technical specs have yet to be announced at this time, but a top-quality video and audio presentation is pretty much expected
Distributed by Paramount, the Blu-ray Disc carries a MSRP of $39.99.
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Alright...Kung Fu Panda is coming soon! :D
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Just pre-ordered Kungfu Panda from Amazon... ;D
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Alright...Kung Fu Panda is coming soon! :D
Kung Fu Panda now available for pre-order at Amazon, Paul ...
DETAILS HERE (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00168OINK?ie=UTF8&tag=themanroomcom-20&link_code=as3&camp=211189&creative=373489&creativeASIN=B00168OINK) ;D ;D ;D
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Criterion Answers Blu-ray Questions
posted : 22 August 2008
Criterion is poised to enter the Blu-ray playing field this November and has issued a small FAQ based on inquiries from their die hard fans about what to expect from the initial offerings.
The first wave includes The Third Man on November 18 and Bottle Rocket, Chungking Express and The Last Emperor on November 25..
Are Criterion's Blu-ray discs region-encoded?
Yes. Criterion is licensed to sell most of its editions only in North America.
Why should I buy regular DVDs when I don't know if Criterion will release a Blu-ray version six months from now?
If you love these films, keep buying DVDs. It is going to be quite a while before the Blu-ray marketplace can support many of the titles Criterion releases on DVD. For new releases, if we think a title has a shot of succeeding on Blu-ray, we aim to put out both editions at the same time, so you can make an informed choice. Where classics from our catalog are concerned, to give you a little extra comfort we'll be offering a $20 Blu-ray upgrade program for customers who have already bought the equivalent edition on DVD. You send us the movie disc from your DVD edition, and for $20 (plus tax and shipping) we'll exchange it for the Blu-ray version, simple as that. For more on how this works, click here.*
What is the packaging going to look like?
Our Blu-ray packaging will be similar to our DVD packaging, only in the smaller Blu-ray size. As with DVDs, we'll use a range of paper and plastic packaging, and we'll bring the same care and attention to the design. Where we're upgrading an existing release, the design will match right down to the disc labels, so if you want to take advantage of the $20 Blu-ray upgrade program, your replacement disc will fit right into the design of your existing Criterion DVD edition. In the store, if you want to be sure you're buying the Blu-ray edition and not the standard-def DVD version, you'll know it by the smaller size and the blue Blu-ray sticker on the front.
Will there be spine numbers?
Spine numbers on our Blu-ray discs will match the existing DVD editions. Our Blu-ray releases represent a significant upgrade when it comes to audiovisual quality, and many of our customers will want to take advantage of that, but we're not starting over at number 1, and we're not expecting our longstanding DVD collectors to do so either. Where content is concerned, we aren't planning on publishing anything on our Blu-ray editions that won't also be available on DVD. Whether you collect only DVDs or only Blu-ray discs or a mix, it's all part of your Criterion collection—and they'll all line up in spine-number order.
What will Criterion Blu-ray discs cost?
Criterion's Blu-ray editions will generally be priced to match our DVDs. It makes sense to us: High-definition mastering and restoration has been a part of our DVD production standard for years. And for our customers who might be on the fence about whether to buy DVD or Blu-ray, we thought the best thing we could do was take price out of the equation.
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Universal has just revealed the cover art and some of the specs for their forthcoming Blu-ray release of Hellboy II: The Golden Army...
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As you can see, Universal is planning to release a 2-Disc Blu-ray (SRP $39.98) and a 3-Disc DVD Collector's Set with a limited edition Golden Army statue and replica excerpt from director Guillermo del Toro's journal (SRP $59.98). The Collector's Set will also be available in a Blu-ray version (SRP $64.98). All will feature widescreen video and will include a bonus Digital Copy version of the film.
The Blu-ray will add BD-Live enhancement, including a Comic Book Builder that allows you to select still images from the film, arrange them on screen, add your own text, and then save it and send the results to your friends online. The street date has yet to be announced, but we expect it sometime in late October or early November. Watch for the official announcement from Universal very soon
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Universal Home Video has revealed early details on 1-disc ($29.98), 3-disc ($34.98) and Blu-ray ($39.98) editions of The Incredible Hulk which stars Edward Norton, Liv Tyler, and Tim Roth. The full details have yet to be revealed, although we can confirm that the 3-disc edition will include a never-before-seen alternate opening and a digital copy of the film. The Blu-ray edition will also include the alternate opening, as well as BD Live features and collectible 3D packaging. Stay tuned for further details as we get them
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Don't you just love reliable industry sources? Us too. Ours have just checked in with more new DVD and Blu-ray street dates, this time for a trio of MUCH anticipated Warner titles. Here's what to expect in November and December...
11/11 - Star Wars: Clone Wars
12/2 - Get Smart
12/9 - The Dark Knight
Word is, there will be FOUR different versions of The Dark Knight, including single-disc and 2-disc DVDs, a 3-disc Blu-ray and some kind of Blu-ray limited edition packaged with cool swag.
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WALT DISNEY PLATINUM EDITIONS IN 2009 & 2010 ;D
Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment unveiled five additions to their Platinum Collection of animated features to be released on DVD and Blu-ray Disc. These include some of Disney’s most beloved classics Pinocchio, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Fantasia, Fantasia 2000 and Beauty and the Beast. Each will be available for a limited time only, in new multi-disc sets featuring rarely seen footage and an array of new bonus features.
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs will be used to launch Disney’s worldwide BD-Live Network, a feature that will connect family and friends from anywhere in the world. Disney’s BD-Live Network will be initially launched in the U.S. only, with the first Platinum Edition Blu-ray release, Sleeping Beauty 50th Anniversary Platinum Edition, available on October 7, 2008.
The schedule for the next wave of Platinum Collection titles is:
Pinnochio in Spring 2009 followed by Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in Fall/Autumn 2009.
Fantasia and Fantasia 2000 will arrive in 2010. In conjunction with these releases, Destino, the unfinished animated feature film created by Walt Disney and famed surrealist painter Salvador Dali will release. Begun in 1946, it was rediscovered in 2003 and completed by Walt’s nephew, Roy E. Disney. The collaboration between these two legendary artists will be available to own for the first time along with an all-new feature-length documentary that examines the surprising partnership between Dali and Disney.
Beauty and the Beast will arrive in Fall/Autumn 2010.
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I Am Legend Ultimate Collectors Edition Blu-ray double-dips December 9
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Ready for even more double dipping? Warner is returning December 9 with the I Am Legend Ultimate collectors Edition in a 2-disc Blu-ray set with a $59.99 MSRP. Exclusive on Blu-ray are picture-in-picture Focus Points that let you watch the making of during the movie on a Bonus View-capable player. As pictured above, the box packs in a 44-page sketch book, art cards and more. That's quite a spread for one movie (and yes, the alternate ending is included in this release also), enough to make you go back for more?
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I Am Legend Ultimate Collectors Edition Blu-ray double-dips December 9
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More details for this UCE release: ;D
Content includes two versions of the film, a Digital Copy of the theatrical version, plus hours of all new additional content. This additional content consists of four animated comics, 12 never before seen deleted scenes with filmmaker commentary, and more than two hours of all new extras revealing Will Smith’s “off-camera humour and kindness and explanation of how he grew as an actor through this film”. Lastly, the UCE also includes an exclusive 44-page concept sketch book, a lenticular lucite commemorative piece featuring imagery from the film, and six collectible art cards showing international cities devastated by the virus.
All extras are in HD unless noted otherwise. A full disc breakdown follows...
Disc 1 (Theatrical Version)
* Play Movie with Focus Points - Explore the making of I Am Legend and the process of bringing the film to the screen.
* Commentary by director Francis Lawrence and producer-screenwriter Akiva Goldsman
* Cautionary Tale: The Science of I Am Legend - How life-threatening microbes have caused pandemic viral infections and the looming dangers of advanced strands to the human race.
* Trailer (SD)
Creating I Am Legend
* The Joy Ride Jump – All alone with a hot car and an empty street; setting up the perfect scene
* Will in the Driver’s Seat – A realistic balance between live action and the stunt world
* Robert Neville’s Psychology – Will Smith, director Francis Lawrence and novelist Richard Matheson set up the character of Robert Neville, particularly his devotion to discipline in routine in order to keep his sanity.
* The Story – Will Smith, director Francis Lawrence, producer-screenwriter Akiva Goldsman and novelist Richard Matheson discuss the roots of the film, as well as the story and its relevance.
* Will Smith in Action – As a man in action, we get to see the humor and kindness of actor Will Smith when cameras are not rolling.
* That Scary Place Inside All of Us – Will Smith and producer-screenwriter Akiva Goldsman discuss he complexity of the story and the Robert Neville character’s ragged psyche.
* Shooting on the Intrepid – Faced with isolation, this NYC landmark was a perfect location against the city skyline.
* NYC Gone Back to Nature – Will Smith, director Francis Lawrence and others focus on the challenges of making a city of over eight million look deserted.
* Will’s Physical Training – Will Smith and trainer Darrell Foster discuss the physical training Will undertook for the role of Robert Neville.
* Creating the Dark Seekers – Producer-screenwriter Akiva Goldsman and novelist Richard Matheson discuss the development of the film’s virus-infected creatures.
* Evacuation, Part 1: Family Convoy – Military coordinator Sam Glen and Second Unit director Vic Armstrong discuss shooting the evacuation sequence.
* Evacuation, Part 2: Military Cooperation – Producer-screenwriter Akiva Goldsman and others discuss the enormous amount of cooperation provided to the production by the U.S. Military in the evacuation sequence.
* Building the Pier – Director Francis Lawrence and others explain the significance of building a pier in New York’s East River.
* Canine Co-Star – Animal coordinator Steve Berens and his star dog Abby share some of her secrets for the training on this film.
* Quiet Imagination – Will Smith talks about his growth as an actor and what was required from his performance.
* Closing Down Fifth Avenue – Unique challenges to shut down one of New York’s busiest streets.
* Evacuation, Part 3: Choppers – Skilled chopper pilots played a key role to deliver dramatic footage.
* The Conflicts of Isolation – Will Smith and producer-screenwriter Akiva Goldsman discuss the psychology of the character of Robert Neville, who believes he is the last man on earth.
* Trusting the Unknown – A profile of the characters Anna and Ethan, as played by Alice Braga and Charlie Tahan, and the significance of their roles in this film.
* The Creatures Break In – Preparing Robert Neville’s home for the attack of the Dark Seekers.
* Neville’s Weapons – The balance between protection and the reality of his environment played a role in the weapons used by Robert Neville.
Animated Comics
* Death as a Gift - Jinghua Xu, immune from the virus and the last survivor in Hong Kong, struggles with the reality of living in a world decimated by the infected.
* Isolation - Abandoned by his country, John Edward Lard is left to die in a maximum security prison while all other inmates are transferred to a more secure facility.
* Sacrificing the Few for the Many - In a Central American jungle, two seemingly unaffected children witness the slaughter of aid workers and the destruction of a sick camp by an unknown military operation.
* Shelter - A father’s agonizing choice to keep his infected daughter locked outside a refuge proves useless as the shelter walls are ultimately breached by the sick.
Disc 2 (Alternate Version)
* Includes Digital Copy
* The Making of I Am Legend (SD)
* I Am Legend: The Making of Shots
* Deleted Scenes with optional commentary by Francis Lawrence and Akiva Goldsman (SD)
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Disney Unveils 'Sleeping Beauty' Blu-ray Specs, Exclusives
Mon Sep 15, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
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Rolling out the red carpet for its premiere Platinum Blu-ray release, Disney has unveiled final specs for 'Sleeping Beauty' that include hours of high-def exclusives and never-before-seen bonus content.
Disney's most high-profile Blu-ray release of the year, the studio will debut 'Sleeping Beauty' on October 7, as the first in its much-touted Platinum series of animated classics. (As previously reported, future Disney Platinum titles confirmed for release in the coming years include 'Snow White,' 'Fantasia' and 'Beauty & the Beast.')
After months of anticipation amongst Disney fans, the studio has now finally confirmed complete tech specs and supplement details for the two-disc Blu-ray 'Sleeping Beauty,' and the title looks to easily earn the mantle of 'Platinum" with hours of bonus features and interactive next-gen content.
Blu-ray exclusives will include a "Cine-Explore" mode (with full-motion PIP commentary by Pixar's John Lasseter, Andreas Deja and critic Leonard Maltin), "Maleficent's Challenge" interactive game, the "ultimate audio experience" Dragon Encounter allowing you to immersive yourself in a 7.1 surround sensory adventure, the "Restoring the Soundtrack" featurette, and a "Customized Living Menu" facilitating real-time customization to the disc's menus.
Additional BD-Live content boasts a fully-functional "Disney BD-Live Network." Extras will include "Movie Chat" (allowing for synchronized viewing across the Internet), "Movie Mail" personalized user video messages, a "Movie Challenge" online interactive real-time trivia challenge, and "Disney Movie Rewards Live," featuring downloadable movie content such as avatars, wallpapers and more.
Features shared with the standard DVD Platinum release of 'Sleeping Beauty' enjoy an all-new "Picture Perfect: The Making of Sleeping Beauty" documentary, additional "Four Artists Paint One Tree" featurette, the "Original Disneyland Sleeping Beauty Walk-Through Attraction With Walt Disney Imagineering" 3-D experience, four deleted songs and an alternate opening, a pair of interactive games ("Briar Rose's Enchanted Dance Game," "Fun with English") the Oscar-winning short film "Grand Canyon" ad a episode of the legendary Walt Disney TV series "The Peter Tchaikovsky Story."
Tech specs for the Blu-ray will see the 75-minute feature film spread across a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and uncompressed English PCM 7.1 Surround audio.
As previously announced, suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $35.98.
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First Look: 'Hancock' Blu-ray Box Art
Mon Sep 15, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
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Its release is still almost three months away, but Sony Pictures has unveiled a first look at the box art and final confirmed specs for 'Hancock.'
As previously reported, the Will Smith comic book blockbuster will hit Blu-ray on November 24 (day-and-date with the standard DVD) with extensive extras and exclusive content.
Mirroring the two-disc standard DVD version, the Blu-ray will enjoy a spate of seven featurettes ("Superhumans: The Making of Hancock," "Home Life," "Seeing the Future," "Suiting Up," "Building a Better Hero," "Bumps and Bruises," "Mere Mortals: Behind the Scenes with 'Dirty Pete'"), plus a Digital Copy of the film included on a second DVD.
Exclusive to the next-gen is the "On-Set Visual Diary" picture-in-picture (Bonus View) commentary, provided on both the unrated and theatrical versions.
Tech specs will see BD-50 dual-layer presentation of both the film's theatrical and unrated cuts, in 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Finally, we've found a sneak peek at Sony's box art for 'Hancock':
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As previously announced, the retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.95.
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Criterion Brings 'Last Emperor' to Blu-ray this November
Mon Sep 15, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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Criterion has announced the latest addition to their growing Blu-ray collection, bringing 'The Last Emperor' to high-def this November. The Oscar-winning epic (which took home nine awards including Best Picture and Best Director for Bernardo Bertolucci), will make its highly-anticipated Blu-ray debut on November 18. (Criterion previously released an extensive DVD set in 2001.)
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with a new 1080p high definition digital transfer approved by cinematographer Vittorio Storaro, and a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Stereo track. Extras on the two-disc set are impressive, and will include audio commentary (by Bertolucci, producer Jeremy Thomas,screenwriter Mark Peploe, and composer-actor Ryuichi Sakamoto), Bertolucci's 53-minute film "The Italian Traveler," a montage of video images taken by Bertolucci in China, multiple making-of documentaries ("The Chinese Adventure of Bernardo Bertolucci," "Making of The Last Emperor"), additional crew interviews, the theatrical trailer and a collectible booklet with an essay by critic David Thomson.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.95.
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'Shawshank Redemption' Gets Specs, New Date
Fri Sep 12, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
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Warner has unveiled final specs and box art for 'The Shawshank Redemption,' which will now hit Blu-ray in early December, one month later than previously expected.
Originally scheduled for Blu-ray release on November 4, Warner has now officially assigned the title a new date of December 2, a postponement of nearly a month.
The BD-50 dual-layer presentation will feature 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video, English and French Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround tracks, and additional Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround dubs in Spanish, Portuguese, and Thai.
Extras will mirror the previous standard DVD special edition, with audio commentary by director Frank Darabont, a pair of documentaries, a still gallery, additional storyboards, a "Charlie Rose Show" interview with Darabont and star Morgan Freeman, and the theatrical trailer.
The Blu-ray will also come housed in warner's Digi-Book packaging, which includes a collectible booklet with rare photos, production notes and other archival materials.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Finally, Warner has issued the final box art for 'The Shawshank Redemption':
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As previously announced, Warner has set the suggested retail price for the Blu-ray at $34.95.
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'X-Files: I Want to Believe' Blu-ray Due December (UPDATED)
Tue Sep 16, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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Fox has announced an early-December Blu-ray arrival for 'X-Files: I Want to Believe,' which will come to high-def as the studio's first title with BD-Live interactivity.
The follow-up to 1998's first big-screen 'X-Files' film 'Fight the Future,' 'I Want to Believe' arrived in theaters this past summer over six years after the end of the television series. Again re-teaming David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson as agents Mulder and Sculley, 'I Want to Believe' failed to ignite in theaters, grossing less than $25 million domestically.
Hoping to give the Chris Carter-directed thriller a second shot on video, Fox will debut the Blu-ray with multiple exclusives and Digital Copy on December 2, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Complete supplements have not yet been revealed, but exclusive content confirmed so far includes a picture-in-picture (Bonus View) in-movie experience (featuring video commentary with cast & crew, behind-the-scenes footage and storyboards and concept art), an isolated score track and D-Box enhancement.
And in a first for the studio, the Blu-ray will include the BD-Live feature "The X-Files Dossier: Agent Dakota Whitney Files," allowing users to search the files of the film's characters.
Additional content shared between the Blu-ray and DVD include audio commentary by Carter and producer Frank Spotnitz, the "Trust No One: Can The X-Files Remain A Secret?" documentary, a pair of featurettes ("Body Parts: Special Make-up Effects," "Chris Carter: Statements on Green Production"), deleted scenes, gag reel, still galleries, a music slideshow, theatrical trailers and a Digital Copy of the film.
Tech specs for the Blu-ray will see both the theatrical and unrated cuts of the film presented on a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround.
Finally, Fox has issued the final box art for 'I Want to Believe':
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Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.98.
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'Bottle Rocket' Set for November Blu-ray Launch
Tue Sep 16, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
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Criterion has announced another addition to its Blu-ray collection, bringing 'Bottle Rocket' to high-def in late-November.
The first film from writer-director Wes Anderson, Criterion will debut the Owen & Luke Wilson cult favorite on Blu-ray November 25.
Extras will include audio commentary (by director/co-writer Anderson and co-writer/actor Owen Wilson), "The Making of Bottle Rocket" documentary, a pair of short films including the original 1992 "Bottle Rocket" that inspired the film, deleted scenes, screen tests, storyboards, a still gallery and collectible booklet.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080 video and English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround audio.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.95.
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'Kung Fu Panda' Gets Sequel, Sunday Street Date
Tue Sep 16, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
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In a first-of-its-kind marketing move, DreamWorks Animation is bundling the Blu-ray of 'Kung Fu Panda' with its direct-to-video sequel, and giving it a Sunday release date instead of the usual Tuesday.
Unlike most studios which release video premiere sequels as stand-alone releases, DreamWorks will package 'Secrets of the Furious Five," a companion film to the $215 million-grossing 'Kung Fu Panda' with both the Blu-ray and DVD versions. 'Furious Five' will again feature the voices of 'Panda' stars Jack Black and Dustin Hoffman.
Also unique to the video release of 'Panda' is DreamWorks confirming a Sunday, November 9 street date (day-and-date on Blu-ray and DVD), which bucks the industry norm of releasing new titles on a Tuesday.
The studio has yet to reveal full supplement details or tech specs for the Blu-ray of 'Kung Fu Panda' and its companion sequel, but as always, we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.98.
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Cheetah Girls to Rock Blu-ray with 'One World'
Wed Sep 17, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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Disney says the Cheetah Girls are coming to high-def, with the release of their first Blu-ray 'One World' in mid-December.
The latest direct-to-video musical adventure for the popular tween trio, 'The Cheetah Girls: One World' will make its Blu-ray debut on December 16, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Extras shared between both versions include a never-before-seen musical sequence, a remix of "Feels Like Love," additional music videos, a karaoke "Rock-Along Mode," and "Cheetah Spots," an alternate version of the movie with pop-up fun facts.
Tech specs boast 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and uncompressed PCM 5. Surround audio.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.99.
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Sony Confirms Date, Specs for 'Open Season 2' Blu-ray
Wed Sep 17, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
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Sony Pictures has officially announced the direct-to-video premiere film 'Open Season 2,' which will come to Blu-ray in early January.
As originally reported, Sony had intended to debut 'Open Season 2' as a theatrical feature, but then leaked the news to the trades last week that it will now debut the sequel direct-to-video. Due on January 27, the Blu-ray will hit day-and-date with the standard DVD.
A relatively bare bones release, shared extras include a pair of featurettes ("Going WILD! With the Voice Cast of Open Season 2," "How to Draw Your Favorite Characters: Boog, Elliot & Fifi") and three deleted scenes.
BD-Live enabled, the Blu-ray will also include the exclusive interactive game "Save Mr. Weenie!"
Tech specs will see 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $38.96.
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'Kitaro' Coming to Blu-ray
Wed Sep 17, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
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BCI has announced it is bringing the acclaimed 2007 anime 'Kitaro' to Blu-ray in mid-November..
Widely-praised as the most visually-spectacular big-screen adaptation of Mizuki Shigeru's much-loved manga series, BCI will debut the feature-length 'Kitaro' on Blu-ray November 18, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
BCI has yet to reveal tech specs for the release, but expect remastered 1080 video and some form of high-res audio.
At press time, there were no announced supplements.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $24.95.
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Panasonic lowers BD Live player prices
DMP-BD35 set-top priced at $399
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QUOTE:
SEPT. 18 | Panasonic will price its latest BD Live model, the DMP-BD35, at $399, which is $300 less than the tag for its first Web-enabled DMP-BD50 model.
Panasonic’s BD Live pricing now matches that of current BD Live models for Sony and Samsung, which today rank as the top two Blu-ray set-top brands. Panasonic’s DMP-BD35 streets in October. A higher end model distinguished by 7.1 surround sound analog output, Panasonic’s DMP-BD55, is expected to street at $499 next month.
Trying to top its Sony and Samsung rivals, Panasonic’s DMP-BD35 can playback BD Live software title features without the need for additional firmware. Sony’s $399 BDP-S350 and Samsung’s $399 BD-P1500 still require additional firmware upgrades before they can handle BD Live interactivity. Samsung is expected to rollout a ‘no firmware necessary’ BD Live player, the $499 BD-P2500, this October.
However, Panasonic’s DMP-BD35 will still require buyers to additionally purchase a SD memory card to view all available BD Live software features.
Further baring its teeth, Panasonic demonstrated its players side-by-side with Sony and Samsung for the media on Sept. 18. This is the first time that Panasonic has made such direct comparisons with its players and rivals in media demonstrations.
Panasonic executives touted better detailed color display and image motion control over Sony’s BDP-S350 and Samsung’s BD-P1500.
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Panasonic lowers BD Live player prices
DMP-BD35 set-top priced at $399
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Wow mura bili na! ...o Popcorn na lang kaya... ;D
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'Journey to the Center of the Earth' to get 3-D, 2-D Blu-rays
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New Line has announced a late-October high-def release for 'Journey to the Center of the Earth,' which will come to Blu-ray in 2-D and 3-D versions.
The Brendan Frasier-starrer turned into the sleeper hit of the summer, crossing the $100 million mark thanks to a wide 3-D release in multiplexes and IMAX theaters.
Making a speedy trip to video, New Line in conjunction with Warner Home Video will debut the film on Blu-ray October 28, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Released as a limited edition, the Blu-ray set will include both 3-D and 2-D versions, and come with four pairs of 3-D glasses. Once supplies are depleted, future Blu-ray copies will include the 2-D version only.
Supplements shared between the Blu-ray and DVD will include audio commentary with Frasier, a trio of making-of featurettes and the "Adventure at the Center of the Earth Challenge" interactive game.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray will be a Digital Copy of the film (in 2-D and standard-def only). (In keeping with New Line's current Digital Copy strategy, the disc will not be Mac compatible.)
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.95.
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'Dodgeball' to Hit Blu-ray this December
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After a delay of over a year, an early-December Blu-ray release has been announced for the comedy smash 'Dodgeball.'
The $100 million-plus-grossing Ben Stiller-Vince Vaughn blockbuster was originally earmarked by the studio for a March 2007 next-gen, bare-bones release, but was then unceremoniously bumped from its schedule with no new date in sight.
Fox has now re-set 'Dodgeball' for Blu-ray on December 9, and the studio is making the wait worth it for fans by adding a host of bonus features.
Mirroring the previous standard DVD special edition, the Blu-ray will now include audio commentary with director Rawson Thurber and cast, a trio of featurettes, deleted scenes, bloopers and a gag reel.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround audio.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.95.
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Classic 'Day the Earth Stood Still' Blu-ray Due December
Fri Sep 19, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
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Just in time for the big-screen remake, Fox has announced it will bring the science fiction classic 'The Day the Earth Stood Still' to Blu-ray in early-December.
Coinciding with the December theatrical debut of the big-budget Keanu Reeves update, Fox will release the original Robert Wise adventure on Blu-ray on December 2. (An extensive special edition was previously released on standard DVD in 2001.)
There are no tech specs or supplement details available as of yet, but we expect the full media announcement in the coming days so we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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Memorex Announces Blu-ray Player For Less than $300
Fri Sep 19, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
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Memorex has announced a new entry-level Blu-ray player at an affordable price.
In a press release yesterday, Memorex announced a new Blu-ray player which the company says offers a broad range of format features for the suggested price of $269. The player is expected to arrive in retail locations by November.
"Our customers want products that bring entertainment into their homes, but at a family-friendly price," Carla Pihowich, Memorex brand director said. "With this in mind, we have introduced a Blu-ray Disc player that offers consumers the full High-Definition viewing experience, but at a price that almost anyone can afford."
According to the press release, the new player will feature 1080p video resolution, 24p and 60p frame rates, and Bonus View 1.1. Audio features include Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS-HD High Resolution Audio decoding and bit stream output, and Master Audio bit stream output. Outputs include 7.1 HDMI digital audio output and 5.1 analog audio output. Compatible video formats include BD-ROM, DVD+ROM, DVD-R/DVD-RW, DVD+R/DVD+RW, CD-ROM, CD-R/CD-RW and JPEG on DVD/CD recordable media.
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Fox Sets December Bow for 'Super Troopers' Blu-ray
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Fox has announced an early-December high-def release for the cult comedy 'Super Troopers,' which will hit Blu-ray with all-new exclusive content.
The first film from the Broken Lizard comedy troupe, 'Super Troopers' didn't make a big mark at the box office but has since gone on to become a cult fave on home video. Fox will debut the film on Blu-ray December 9.
Supplements carried over from the previous DVD release include audio commentary with Broken Lizard, 15 deleted/extended scenes, a featurette and theatrical trailers.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray will be a new picture-in-picture commentary, plus the "Stupor Trooper" interactive drinking game. (Gulp!)
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround audio.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.95.
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'Hellboy II' Blu-ray to Include Exclusives, BD-Live
Universal has unveiled final specs for the two-disc Blu-ray release of 'Hellboy II: The Golden Army,' which will hit high-def with hours of exclusive content and DTS-MA 7.1 audio.
As previously announced, the $75 million-grossing fantasy sequel will make its Blu-ray debut on November 18 (day-and-date with the standard DVD) in two-disc special edition and 3-disc limited edition versions.
Now full specs are in for the two-disc version, which is sure to impress fans with its wealth of features. Confirmed extras include a pair of audio commentaries with director Guillermo del Toro, and cast Jeffrey Tambor, Selma Blair & Luke Gross, multiple featurettes ("Hellboy: In Service of the Demon," "Troll Market Tour with Guillermo del Toro," "Production Workshop"), deleted scenes (including an animated "Comic Zinco Epilogue" to the film), a "Comic Book Builder" interactive feature, multiple still galleries, the complete script, and Digital Copy.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray are numerous U-Control and BD-Live extras, including the "Scene Explorer: Schufftan Google View" mode, the "Director's Notebook" featurette, additional "Set Visits" footage, a conceptual art gallery, MyChat and MyScenes BD-Live functionality, and more exclusive content to be made available online with the disc launches.
Tech specs boast a BD-50 dual-layer presentation of the film in 1080p video and English DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 Surround.
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Exclusive_HD_Content/Hellboy_II_Blu-ray_to_Include_Exclusives,_BD-Live/2111 (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Exclusive_HD_Content/Hellboy_II_Blu-ray_to_Include_Exclusives,_BD-Live/2111)
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'Heartbreak Kid' Headed to Blu-ray
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Adding another "catch up" title to their Blu-ray catalog, DreamWorks has announced a mid-December release for the Ben Stiller comedy 'The Heartbreak Kid.'
Originally released on HD DVD in late 2007, this remake of the 1972 cult favorite (starring Charles Grodin in the Stiller role) barely earned $35 million at the domestic box office. DreamWorks will give the Farrelly Brothers-directed farce another shot when it hits Blu-ray on December 16.
Extras are plentiful and match the HD DVD, including an audio commentary with the Farrellys, four featurettes ("The Farrelly Brothers in: The French Tradition," "Ben & Jerry," "Heartbreak Halloween," "The Egg Toss"), deleted scenes, a gag reel and the film's original theatrical trailer.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p video and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio, plus standard Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround and subtitle options in English, French and Spanish.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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'Sisterhood' Traveling to Blu this November
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Warner has announced it is bringing the distaff summer sequel 'The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2' to Blu-ray this November.
Featuring the return of Amber Tamblyn, America Ferrara, Alexis Biedel, and Blake Lively, 'Traveling Pants 2' outgrossed the original with a nearly-$50 million domestic haul. Warner will release the Blu-ray on November 18, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Tech specs will see a BD-25 single-layer presentation with 1080p/VC-1 video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras include a featurette, deleted scenes and gag reel.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $38.96.
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'Ghost' to Haunt Blu-ray this December
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After a delay of more than a year, Paramount has given the supernatural blockbuster 'Ghost' a late-December Blu-ray bow.
Originally set for release on HD DVD and Blu-ray in mid-2007, Paramount subsequently yanked the Oscar-nominated Patrick Swayze-Demi Moore starrer from its next-gen schedule. Now high-def fans can mark December 30 on their calendars, when the studio will finally issue the film on Blu-ray in special edition form.
There are no tech specs as of yet, but supplements are expected to match those found on the deluxe DVD released in 2004.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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Paramount Bringing 'Truman Show' to Blu-ray
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Paramount has announced to retailers a late-December bow for the Oscar-nominated comedic drama 'The Truman Show.'
Marking its first appearance in high-def, Paramount will debut the Jim Carrey-starrer (featuring the comedian in his first dramatic role) on December 30.
There are no tech specs or supplemental details as of yet, but we expect a package comparable to the previously-released DVD.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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Sony to Double Dip 'Stranger Than Fiction' Blu-ray
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Sony Pictures has announced its latest "double dip" Blu-ray re-issue, a special edition of the Will Ferrell comedy 'Stranger Than Fiction' due in early February.
Originally released on Blu-ray in early 2007, the Marc Forster directed cult hit will get a retooled version on December 2, when Sony releases 'Stranger Than Fiction (Special Edition)' (timed to coincide with the recently-announced Ferrell comedy 'Step Brothers').
Extras announced thus far are those found on the previous Blu-ray, including five featurettes ("On Location in Chicago," "Actors in Search of a Story," "Building the Team," "Words on a Page," "The VFX of Stranger than Fiction").
Tech specs currently listed on Sony's media website also mirror the previous Blu-ray, with 1080p video and uncompressed PCM 5.1 Surround audio.
We'll keep you posted once updated details are confirmed.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $28.95.
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Warner Announces 'Clone Wars' For Blu-ray
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Announcing the first 'Star Wars' film for high-def, Warner will bring the animated adventure 'The Clone Wars' to Blu-ray in mid-November.
Meant to be a big-screen lead-in for the upcoming television series of the same name, 'Star Wars: The Clone Wars' was a box office underachiever, and failed to scale anywhere near the heights of the live-action 'Star Wars' films. Warner will debut 'The Clone Wars' on Blu-ray November 11, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/VC-1 video and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras include a "Clone Wars: The Untold Stories" preview of the first season of the 'Clone Wars' TV series.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray is "A Creative Conversation" picture-in-picture commentary with director Dave Filoni, producer Catherine Winder, writer Henry Gilroy, and editor Jason W.A. Tucker, plus the interactive game "Take the Hologram Memory Challenge."
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $38.96.
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Paramount to Have a 'Last Holiday' on Blu-ray
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In an early alert to retailers, Paramount has set a late-December Blu-ray release for the Queen Latifah comedy 'Last Holiday.'
Marking its next-gen debut, the $35 million-grossing flick will hit Blu-ray on December 30 (Paramount previously released the film on standard DVD in 2006.)
There are no tech specs or supplemental details as of yet, but we expect extras to match the DVD. Watch this space.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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Warner Announces Two Versions of 'Dark Knight' Blu-ray, Goes BD-Live
Mon Sep 29, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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After months of rumors and anticipation, Warner has officially announced an early-December bow for dual Blu-ray versions of 'The Dark Knight,' which will hit high-def as the studio's first BD-Live release.
In what could be one of the biggest-selling Blu-rays of all time, Warner will unleash the worldwide global box office phenomenon on Blu-ray in standard two-disc and collectible limited edition versions on December 9 (day-and-date with the DVD).
Tech specs for the standard version include the 153-minute feature film spread across a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p/VC-1 video (2.40:1) and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio. (Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround dubs and subtitles are also provided in English, French-Quebec and Spanish.)
Extras included on the first disc also include "Gotham Uncovered: Creation of a Scene," a "focus points" version of the film containing behind-the-scenes vignettes with director Christopher Nolan and his team discussing the planning of the film, the use of IMAX photography, the stunts, and more.
Disc two will feature additional extras presented entirely in HD, including a pair of featurettes ("Batman Tech," "Batman Unmasked: The Psychology of the Dark Knight"), the "Gotham Tonight" collection of six episodes of the Gotham Cable's Premiere network, and "The Galleries," containing multiple still galleries, theatrical trailers and TV spots.
In addition, 'The Dark Knight' will be the studio's first BD-Live-enabled title (content TBA). A Digital Copy of the film will also be included.
Also due for release on December 9 will be 'The Dark Knight (Limited Edition),' which will include the identical two-disc standard Blu-ray edition, plus come housed in collectible "Bat Pod" packaging. Tech specs and supplements remain the same.
Finally, Warner has revealed a high-res look at the Blu-ray's slipcover and interior keepcase packaging:
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Suggested retail price for the standard two-disc has been set at $35.99. Warner has yet to confirm an MSRP for the Limited Edition version, but we'll keep you posted.
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Teen Drama 'The Clique' Coming to Blu-ray this November
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Warner has announced it is bringing the indie teen drama 'The Clique' to Blu-ray in mid-November.
Garnering only a limited release in theaters, this 'Mean Girls'-style tween satire of haves and have-nots will get a Blu-ray release on November 18, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Warner has not yet announced any tech specs other than a BD-50 dual-layer presentation, nor any word on supplemental features. As always, we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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'Tommy Boy' Headed to Blu-ray
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In an early alert to retailers, Paramount has set a late-December Blu-ray release for the Chris Farley-David Spade comedy 'Tommy Boy.'
Dubbed the "Holy Schnike! Edition," the $45 million-grossing cult favorite will hit Blu-ray on December 30.
Extras will mirror the previous DVD special edition, including audio commentary with director Peter Segal, a quartet of featurettes, deleted scenes, a gag reel, photo gallery, storyboards, and theatrical trailers and TV spots.
There are no tech specs yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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Paul McCartney to Release First Blu-ray with 'Space Within Us'
Tue Sep 30, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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Rock legend Paul McCartney is releasing his first Blu-ray, with A&E announcing a November bow for the concert film 'The Space Within Us.'
In 2005, McCartney crossed America with his record-breaking, sold-out US tour. Captured with twenty-five hi-def cameras, 'Paul McCartney: The Space Within Us' presents the complete show that contains over two dozen musical masterpieces, including such Beatles classics as 'Eleanor Rigby,' 'Yesterday,' 'Penny Lane' and 'Hey Jude.'
A&E Home Video will debut the Blu-ray on November 18.
There are no tech specs or supplement details announced as of yet, but watch this space.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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Paramount Bringing 'Event Horizon' to Blu-ray
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Paramount has announced a late-December bow for the sci-fi/horror cult favorite 'Event Horizon.'
Marking its first appearance in high-def, Paramount will debut the Paul W.S. Anderson-directed thriller on December 30 (the studio previously released a special edition DVD version in 2006).
There are no tech specs or supplemental details as of yet, but we expect a package comparable to the DVD. We'll keep you posted.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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New BD-Live Content Launches for 'Tranformers' Blu-ray\
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DreamWorks has unveiled details of its latest BD-Live feature for the 'Transformers' Blu-ray, a video called "Robot Ninjas" which is launching today.
The vignette showcases the battle seen in the film between Bumblebee and Barricade, and comes from video diary footage and animatics culled by the film's stunt crew.
The BD-Live feature is accessible beginning today via any BD-Live-capable (Profile 2.0) Blu-ray player with internet access.
The studio says a second BD-Live feature, "What Effing Happened to Mason City" will appear in the near future, though details remain TBA.
It is also expected that DreamWorks will use the 'Transformers' Blu-ray to promote the upcoming theatrical sequel, 'Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.' We'll keep you posted.
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Hall & Oates' 'Live at the Troubador' Coming to Blu-ray
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Next-gen newcomer Shout Factory has announced a late-November Blu-ray bow for 'Hall & Oates: Live at the Troubador.'
Marking the high-def debut both for the indie distributor and the veteran pop-rock duo, 'Hall & Oates: Live at the Troubador' was shot entirely in high-definition and features over two dozen of the band's biggest hits.
There are no tech specs or supplement details as of yet, but stay tuned.
Suggested retail has been set at $24.95.
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'Days of Thunder' Races to Blu-ray this December
Wed Oct 01, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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Paramount has alerted retailers to a late-December start for the Tom Cruise racing drama 'Days of Thunder.'
Dubbed "'Top Gun' on Wheels" at the time of its release, the box office disappointment will make its next-gen debut on December 30.
There are no tech specs or supplemental details as of yet, but we expect a package comparable to the previously-released DVD.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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'Longshots' Headed to Blu-ray
Wed Oct 01, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
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In an early announcement to retailers, Weinstein Co. has set an early-December kick-off for the Ice Cube sports comedy 'The Longshots.'
The directorial debut of Limp Bizkit frontman Fred Durst, 'The Longshots' grossed $25 million during its theatrical run earlier this year. Weinstein/Genius Products will debut the film on Blu-ray December 2, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
There are no tech specs or supplemental details available as of this early date, but as always we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $37.49
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New Line to Roll 'Domino' to Blu-ray this January
Wed Oct 01, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
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New Line has announced plans to bring the crime drama 'Domino' to Blu-ray in late-January.
Starring Keira Knightley as real-life bounty hunter Domino Harvey, the Tony Scott-directed actioner made $30 million at the domestic box office in 2005. New Line, via Warner Home Video, will release the film on Blu-ray January 20.
Extras include filmmaker audio commentary, an alternate audio track with development meetings, a pair of featurettes ("I Am a Bounty Hunter: Domino Harvey's Life," "Bounty Hunting on Acid: Tony Scott's Visual Style") and seven deleted scenes.
Presented on a BD-25 single-layer disc, tech specs will see 1080p/VC-1 video. No audio details are available yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $28.95.
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MGM Planning 'Spinal Tap' Blu-ray
Wed Oct 01, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
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MGM has set a late-January Blu-ray release for the classic rock mockumentary 'This is Spinal Tap.'
Starring Michael McKean, Christopher Guest, and Harry Shearer as aging metalheads who embark on a disastrous "comeback" tour of the United States, the Rob Reiner-directed spoof will hit Blu-ray on January 20. (The film has previously been released in a myriad of DVD releases over the past decade.)
There's no word yet on tech specs or what extras may make the Blu-ray, but we expect full details in the coming weeks, so we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.99.
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Fox Bringing 'Home Alone' to Blu-ray
Thu Oct 02, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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The 'Home Alone' hijinks are heading to Blu-ray this Christmas, with Fox alerting retailers to an early-December next-gen bow for the blockbuster comedy.
The John Hughes-Chris Columbus comedy that turned Macauley Culkin into a star was the smash hit of 1990, grossing nearly $300 million domestically and spawning three sequels. Just in time for the holidays, Fox will debut the Blu-ray on December 2.
The studio has yet to issue tech specs or supplement details, but we expect the full media announcement to arrive in the coming weeks.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.99.
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Wanted Assaults Blu-ray with Two Versions
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Universal Studios Home Entertainment has revealed the Timur Bekmambetov stylistic thriller Wanted starring Angelina Jolie and James McAvoy is coming to Blu-ray Disc on December 2, confirming earlier reports dating back to August suggesting a release on that exact date.
Like Hellboy in November, Universal will be issuing standard and collector's edition sets for Wanted. The difference between the two, aside from packaging, are 4 collectible postcards and a lenticular scene in an acrylic frame exclusive to the collector's edition. Everything else, including a two-disc configuration, is identical.
Wanted on Blu-ray will be presented in widescreen 2.35:1 1080p video and 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio with English, French and Spanish subtitles.
An extensive array of supplemental features will be crammed onto disc one with the feature while a standard definition digital copy occupies disc two. The full list of extras are as follows.
* U Control - Motion Comics
* U Control - Scene Explorer
* U Control - Assassin Profiles
* U Control - Picture in Picture
* BD Live - My Chat
* BD Live - My Wanted Commentary
* BD Live - My Scenes Sharing
* BD Live - Exclusive Content
* Alternate Opening
* Extended Scene
* Cast and Characters
* Stunts on the L Train
* Special Effects: The Art of the Impossible
* Groundbreaking Visual Effects: From Imagination to Execution
* The Origins of Wanted: Bringing the Graphic Novel to Life
* Through the Eyes of Visionary Director Timur Bekmambetov
* Wanted: Motion Comics
* The Making of Wanted: The Game
* Digital copy on second disc
Wanted on Blu-ray will carry an SRP of $39.98 while the collector's edition is expected to be $20 steeper at $59.98, though that price is unconfirmed at this time.
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Sony Launches BD Rewards Program
Mon Oct 06, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
Sony has just announced the launch of its BD rewards program, set to begin with the debut of this week's 'You Don't Mess With The Zohan.'
The free program, entitled the Sony Pictures Blu-ray Club, rewards consumers for purchasing BD-live enabled Sony Pictures Blu-ray titles. Customers accumulate points which are tallied through BD-Live-accessible players, giving them the opportunity to earn Sony products and prizes, as well as the chance to become members of the greater Sony Rewards program.
Consumers join the program by creating user profiles via their network connected Blu-ray players. They can also create these memberships online at www.sonyrewards.com/bluray. They will then accrue points as applicable titles are purchased and registered, thereby automatically crediting the user's rewards balance and progress toward various rewards and prizes.
“Sony Pictures Home Entertainment is dedicated to providing consumers with the most dynamic Blu-ray Disc experiences possible,” said Lexine Wong, Senior Executive Vice President of Worldwide Marketing. "The Sony Pictures Blu-ray Club, made possible by the new interactivity of BD-Live, provides a unique incentive for our consumers who have embraced our Blu-ray high definition movies.”
To learn more about the program, go to the program's homepage at www.sonyrewards.com/bluray
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FUNimation Sets 'Vexille' Blu for November
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FUNimation has set an early-November debut for their latest Blu-ray release, a special edition of the popular anime 'Vexille.'
From acclaimed 'Ping Pong' filmmaker Fumihiko Sorin, 'Vexille' is an epic CGI tale of man and machine in a post-apocalyptic Japan. Following a smash theatrical run in its native country, the film has since gone on to enjoy a dedicated cult audience around the world
FUNimation has set a retail arrival of November 4 for the Blu-ray (the company previously released 'Vexville' on standard DVD in February 2007).
No tech specs or supplement details have been announced, although the Blu-ray is billed as a Special Edition, so we'll be on the lookout for plenty of extras.
Retail for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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'Coach Carter' to Score on Blu this December
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Paramount has announced to retailers a mid-December bow for the inspirational sports drama 'Coach Carter.'
Initially announced for high-def back in 2006 as part of Paramount's early launch plans, the $35
There are no tech specs or supplemental details as of yet, but expect extras comparable to the previously-released special edition DVD.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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'Iron Man' Blu-ray Hits BD-Live Snag
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Following user reports of BD-Live connectivity problems with this week's Blu-ray release of 'Iron Man,' Paramount has released a statement regarding the status of the disc's functionality issues.
Released this past Tuesday to big sales, the heavy traffic that resulted as users attempted access the Blu-ray's online BD-Live materials has apparently resulted in large traffic jams, with some consumers completely unable to download content. Paramount issued the following statement:
"The Iron Man Blu-ray went on sale Tuesday and due to the overwhelming popularity of the release an unprecedented demand was placed on the BD-Live connection. The disc represents a truly state-of-the art Blu-ray presentation with a first of its kind BD-Live application. As such, the heavy amount of traffic strained the servers due to so many people heading to the same destination.
The bandwidth capacity was increased in preparation for the release but the demand exceeded all expectations so capacity was expanded dramatically last night and local servers were established worldwide to accommodate all the fans. The issue should be completely resolved but if anyone experiences a brief traffic jam, we have provided consumers with a menu option during disc startup that allows them to go directly to the movie main menu or continue to download the BD-Live features."
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Lionsgate Reveals 'Monster's Ball' Blu-ray Specs
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Lionsgate has unveiled final specs for the November next-gen release of 'Monster's Ball,' which will hit Blu-ray with hours of bonus features.
As previously reported, Lionsgate alerted retailers that the Oscar-winning Marc Forster drama (which nabbed a Best Actress statuette for Halle Berry) would hit Blu-ray on November 4.
The studio has now confirmed the release with final specs, which will see the film spread across a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras will replicate the previously-released standard DVD special edition, including audio commentary (by Forster and screenwriters Milo Addica & Will Rokos), a trio of featurettes ("Music for the film: Monster's Ball," "On the Set," "Behind the Scenes with Producer Lee Daniels"), additional filmmaker interviews, deleted scenes, and the theatrical trailer.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.99.
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Universal Announces Dual 'Wanted' Blu-rays, Adds U-Control and BD-Live
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Universal has announced full details for 'Wanted,' which it will bring to Blu-ray this December in two versions loaded with hours of exclusive U-Control and BD-Live content.
As previously reported, Universal alerted retailers to a December 2 Blu-ray release (day-and-date with the standard DVD) for the $135 million box-office smash. The studio has now confirmed not one but two next-gen versions of the James McAvoy-Angelina Jolie starrer, which will come to high-def with hours of bonus features.
The standard Blu-ray version will include a suite of making-of featurettes ( "Cast and Characters," "Stunts on the L Train," "Special Effects: The Art of the Impossible," "Groundbreaking Visual Effects: From Imagination to Execution," "The Origins of Wanted: Bringing the Graphic Novel to Life," "Through the Eyes of Visionary Director Timur Bekmambetov," "Wanted: Motion Comics"), deleted scenes, an alternate opening, and the "Making of Wanted: The Game" interactive feature.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray will be four U-Control extras including picture-in-picture, a scene explorer, motion comics, and assassin profiles. BD-Live features boast My Chat, MyScenes Sharing, and a "My Wanted" commentary maker.
In addition to the standard Blu-ray, Universal will also release the 'Wanted (Collector's Edition),' which includes the same stand-alone Blu-ray release with deluxe packaging and other bonus collectibles.
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Warner Previews 2009 Blu-ray DigiBook Release Plans
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In a teaser of its 2009 next-gen slate, Warner Home Video has issued a new promotional flyer previewing a half-dozen of their DigiBook Blu-ray disc titles due for release next year.
The promotional advert first appeared in the studio's October 14 Blu-ray release of 'Poltergeist' (a review copy hit our doorstep last week). Though a number of titles highlighted have already been released or announced (including 'How the West Was Won,' 'Shawshank Redemption' and 'Casablanca') these are also the first official mentions of additional releases.
Though there are no street dates given, the ad touts 'Amadeus,' the classic 1933 version of 'King Kong,' and 1997's 'The Matrix' as all scheduled to get the DigiBook treatment on Blu-ray in 2009.
At press time, there were no additional information on tech specs or supplemental features. We'll definitely keep you posted as soon as further official word comes from Warner.
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Classic 'Assault on Precinct 13' Coming to Blu-ray
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Image Entertainment has announced plans to bring the 1976 John Carpenter action thriller 'Assault on Precinct 13' to Blu-ray in early December.
Considered one of Carpenter's best (if often overlooked) gems, 'Assault on Precinct' has since achieved cult classic status (and was eventually remade in 2005).
Image will debut the Blu-ray version on December 2.
No word yet on tech specs or supplement details, but hopes are for a package similar to Image's previously-released special edition DVD. We'll keep you posted.
Suggested list price has been set at $29.99.
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Blue Underground Announces 'Dead & Buried' Blu-ray
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Blue Underground has confirmed the latest addition to its next-gen catalog, with the late-January Blu-ray bow of 'Dead & Buried.'
Though not a box office hit during its original 1981 theatrical run, the Gary Sherman-directed horror thriller has since enjoyed a long shelf life on video as a cult fave.
Previously listed for high-def release on Blue Underground's website, the indie has now confirmed a January 27 release date for the Blu-ray.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with newly-remastered 1080p video and English audio tracks in DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 7.1 Surround, Dolby TrueHD 7.1 Surround and Dolby Digital Surround EX.
Extras include a trio of audio commentaries (with director Gary A. Sherman, co-writer/producer Ronald Shusett and actress Linda Turley, and cinematographer Steve Poster), three featurettes ( "Stan Winston's Dead & Buried EFX," "Robert Englund: An Early Work of Horror," "Dan O'Bannon: Crafting Fear") and theatrical trailers.
Suggested list price has been set at $34.95.
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http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=1888
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Iron Man Destroys Blu-ray Retail Records
Posted October 8, 2008 08:55 AM by Josh Dreuth
Paramount According to various retail sources, on average, 20% of all 'Iron Man' discs that were sold last week were on the Blu-ray format. For Internet-based stores, that percentage climbed to an astounding 50%. While final unit sales data has yet to be reported, it is expected that 'Iron Man' is the highest selling Blu-ray yet.
Oddly enough, Paramount Home Entertainment has yet to make an official statement on the sales data, but one thing is for sure: If 'Iron Man' hasn't already broken the 1 Million units sold barrier yet, it will likely do so by the end of the year."
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That's great news indeed for blu. But that record will not last long. Wait til DK comes out in blu! ;D
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Sony Launches BD Rewards Program
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Sony has just announced the launch of its BD rewards program, set to begin with the debut of this week's 'You Don't Mess With The Zohan.'
The free program, entitled the Sony Pictures Blu-ray Club, rewards consumers for purchasing BD-live enabled Sony Pictures Blu-ray titles. Customers accumulate points which are tallied through BD-Live-accessible players, giving them the opportunity to earn Sony products and prizes, as well as the chance to become members of the greater Sony Rewards program.
Consumers join the program by creating user profiles via their network connected Blu-ray players. They can also create these memberships online at www.sonyrewards.com/bluray. They will then accrue points as applicable titles are purchased and registered, thereby automatically crediting the user's rewards balance and progress toward various rewards and prizes.
“Sony Pictures Home Entertainment is dedicated to providing consumers with the most dynamic Blu-ray Disc experiences possible,” said Lexine Wong, Senior Executive Vice President of Worldwide Marketing. "The Sony Pictures Blu-ray Club, made possible by the new interactivity of BD-Live, provides a unique incentive for our consumers who have embraced our Blu-ray high definition movies.”
To learn more about the program, go to the program's homepage at www.sonyrewards.com/bluray
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'Dexter' Coming to Blu-ray
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Paramount has announced an early-January Blu-ray release for the first season of the hit Showtime series 'Dexter.'
A breakout hit for the network, the edgy serial killer drama is set to make its high-def debut when 'Dexter: The First Season' comes to Blu-ray on January 6.
Tech specs will see the entire 12 episode, 576-minute season spread across four BD-50 dual-layer discs in 1080p video and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
There's no word yet on bonus features, nor a confirmed list price, but as always, we'll keep you posted.
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Warner Bringing 'The Notebook' to Blu-ray
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Warner has announced it is bringing the romantic favorite 'The Notebook' to Blu-ray in a deluxe giftset available this January, just in time for Valentine's Day.
Though not a huge box office hit, the Rachel McAdams-Ryan Gosling weepie has since gone on to enjoy an enormous cult audience on video, and continues to be one of Warner's top-selling catalog releases on DVD.
The studio will debut 'The Notebook: Limited Edition Giftset' on Blu-ray January 20, marking the film's first-ever high-def release.
Collectibles in the set will include a photo album and scrapbook with images from the movie plus space for your own photos, scrapbook accessories such as stickers and photo corners, a stationery set with letterhead and envelopes and collectible bookmarks.
There are no tech or supplement specs as of yet, but watch this space for further details in the weeks to come.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.99.
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'Zodiac' to Cut Up Blu-ray this January
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After a wait of over a year, Paramount has announced plans to bring the serial killer procedural 'Zodiac' to Blu-ray early next year.
Previously released on HD DVD in early 2007, the acclaimed David Fincher-directed drama will at last make its Blu-ray debut on January 27.
Supplements will mirror the previous, highly-praised HD DVD edition, including multiple audio commentaries with Fincher and cast & crew, the "Zodiac Deciphered" documentary, six additional making-of featurettes, multiple "Background Files" profiling real-life serial killers, and a gallery of trailers and TV spots.
There are no tech specs, but we expect a package comparable to the HD DVD, which included the Director's Cut of the film presented in 1080p video and high-res audio. We'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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Direct-to-Video 'Without a Paddle' to Hit Blu-ray
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Paramount has announced an early-2009 release for the direct-to-video premiere sequel 'Without a Paddle: Nature's Calling.'
A follow-up to the 2004 sleeper hit 'Without a Paddle' starring Seth Green and Matthew Lillard, 'Nature's Calling' will hit Blu-ray on January 13 (day-and-date with the standard DVD).
Though no plot synopsis is yet available from Paramount, an early cast list reveals that, typical of direct-to-video features, none of the original stars will be returning for the sequel.
Also TBA are tech and supplement specs, but watch this space for further details in the coming weeks.
At press time, Paramount has not announced a simultaneous Blu-ray release of the original 'Without a Paddle,' but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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Jet Li's 'Fearless' Coming to Blu-ray
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Announcing its latest HD DVD catch-up title, Universal will bring the Jet Li actioner 'Fearless' to Blu-ray this December with three different versions of the movie.
Arriving a year after the HD DVD release, the $65 million worldwide grossing sleeper will kick its way to Blu-ray on December 9.
Included on the BD-50 dual-layer release is not one but three versions of the movie (theatrical, director's, and unrated), presented in 1080p video and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround.
Extras include a single making-of featurette.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.95.
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MGM Announces Specs, Exclusives for 'Spinal Tap' Blu-ray
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MGM is turning it up to 11 for the next-gen release of 'This Is Spinal Tap,' which will hit Blu-ray this January with hours of bonus features and exclusive content.
As previously reported, the studio has set a January 20 street date for the Blu-ray release of the classic rock documentary, marking the film's debut in high-def.
Full specs have now been confirmed, with the film spread across a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and an English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
Extras will see many (though not all) of the bonus features found on previous DVD and LaserDisc editions, including a trio of audio commentaries (with Rob Reiner, stars Michael McKean, Christopher Guest, and Harry Shearer, and other filmmakers), deleted scenes, five music videos, both real and "mock" trailers, and TV spots.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray release is the "Create Your Own Band" BD-Java game, allowing you to customize your very own rock star avatars.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.99.
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wow... ;)
First Look Preparing 'Priceless' for Blu-ray
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In an early retailer announcement, First Look Studios has set a late-November Blu-ray arrival for the French import 'Priceless.'
Starring 'Amelie's Audrey Tautou, the Pierre Salvadori-directed romantic comedy will arrive on high-def November 18, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
There are no tech or supplement specs as of yet, but as always, we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $28.98.
You'll find the latest specs for 'Priceless' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under November 18.
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Direct-to-Video 'Resident Evil: Degeneration' to Hit Blu in December
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Sony Pictures has announced a late-December Blu-ray bow for the latest in the 'Resident Evil' franchise, the direct-to-video animated film 'Degeneration.'
The fourth title in the popular sci-fi zombie series, the all-CGI 'Resident Evil: Degeneration' will hit Blu-ray as a video premiere film on December 30, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Extras boast a featurette, an interview with star Leon, voice bloopers, character profiles, a 'Resident Evil 5' video game trailer, and a 'Resident Evil: Degeneration' trailer collection.
There are no tech specs, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.95.
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Blu-ray 2008: The Studio Report Card
High-Def Digest's own Kenneth S. Brown has just written an article for Sound & Vision Magazine, in which he holds the studios accountable for their performance in the Blu-ray arena.
Regular readers are more than familiar with Kenneth's insightful movie reviews and analysis. Anyone who has read his reviews also knows that Ken isn't shy when it comes to taking the studios to task for skimping on sound, over-processing their video, or charging an arm and a leg for a title that offers little to no extras or high-def exclusives. Now Ken has written a piece for Sound & Vision, in which he lines the studios up in a row and points out who is doing what well, and who is taking the shortcuts. Check out the article on Sound & Vision's website (http://www.soundandvisionmag.com/bluray/3000/blu-ray-2008-the-studio-report-card.html (http://www.soundandvisionmag.com/bluray/3000/blu-ray-2008-the-studio-report-card.html)).
If you like what you read, check out Kenneth's recent reviews for 'Standard Operating Procedure,' 'Eastern Promises,' 'Daredevil: Director's Cut,' 'Run Fatboy Run,' and 'Madagascar,' among hundred of others. His rundown of the Best (and Worst) High-Def Discs of 2007 is also a fun read.
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MGM Sets January Arrival for 'Stargate: Ark of Truth' Blu-ray
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In an early alert to retailers, Fox/MGM has set a January debut for the latest in the 'Stargate' franchise, the direct-to-video premiere 'The Ark of Truth.'
Picking up where 'Stargate SG-1' left off, 'Stargate: The Ark of Truth' sees the Stargate crew in search of an ancient artifact. MGM will debut the Blu-ray on January 13.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p video (1.78:1) and an English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
There are no confirmed extras as of yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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Tenacious D Sets First Blu-ray with 'Masterworks'
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Indie rockers Tenacious D have announced to retailers their debut high-def release, setting a mid-November Blu-ray bow for the latest in their 'Complete Masterworks' series.
Due on Blu-ray November 11 (day-and-date with the DVD) from Sony Music, 'Tenacious D: The Complete Masterworks 2' is the latest volume in the band's archival series of music videos, short films, and other rare audio materials.
Sony has yet to set any tech or supplement specs for the set, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.98.
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'Pink Panther' to Stalk Blu-ray this January
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In an early retailer alert, Fox/MGM has announced plans to bring the 1963 version of 'The Pink Panther' to Blu-ray.
Starring Peter Sellars as Inspector Clouseau, the Blake Edwards-directed comedy classic will debut on Blu-ray January 27.
Early tech specs will see 1080p video and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
Fox has yet to set any supplement details for the set, but as always, watch this space.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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Universal Bringing Latest 'Mummy,' 3-Pack to Blu-ray this December
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In an early retail announcement, Universal says it is bringing the latest big-screen 'Mummy' adventure to Blu-ray this December, along with a three-pack collection of the complete trilogy.
Starring Brendan Fraser, Maria Bello, and John Hannah, 'The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor' barely squeaked past the $100 million mark at the domestic box office this past summer.
Universal will release the Rob Cohen-directed pic on December 16, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Early tech specs will see 1080p video and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
There are no supplement details for the set as of yet, but as always, we'll keep you posted.
According to retailer reports, Universal is also planning to bring a 'Mummy' 3-pack to high-def on the same day, which will include 'Tomb of the Dragon Emperor' plus the previously-released Blu-rays of the first two installments in the series, 'The Mummy' and 'The Mummy Returns.' Watch this space for more details as they are confirmed.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.95.
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'Tropic Thunder' Director's Cut Rumbles Onto Blu-ray
Fri Oct 10, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
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DreamWorks has some big Blu-ray news for you - Ben Stiller's hit comedy 'Tropic Thunder' is rolling into stores this November in a never-before-seen unrated director's cut version.
Co-starring Jack Black, Robert Downey Jr., and a barely-recognizable Tom Cruise, the $100 million-plus grossing Hollywood satire will hit Blu-ray on November 18 (day-and-date with single-disc and two-disc DVD editions).
Presented in an unrated Director's Cut, tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras include audio commentary with Ben Stiller, Jack Black, and Robert Downey Jr., multiple featurettes ("Blowing s**t Up," "The Hot LZ," "7 Cast of Tropic Thunder Features," "Make-up test with Tom Cruise"), a "Full Mags" feature with introduction by Stiller and editor Greg Hayden, and MTV Movie Awards clip, mock "Rain of Madness" trailer and a DreamWorks Public Service Announcement.
High-Def Digest
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Fox Planning January Blu-ray release for 'Unfaithful'
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Fox has announced its latest catalog Blu-ray, setting a mid-January Blu-ray berth for the romantic thriller 'Unfaithful.'
According to retail reports, the studio will debut the Oscar-nominated Diane Lane-Richard Gere starrer on Blu-ray January 20. (A special edition DVD was previously released in 2003.)
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround.
There are no supplement details available as of yet, but a package comparable to the standard DVD is expected. Stay tuned.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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Warner Announces 'Being There' DigiBook Blu-ray
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Announcing its latest DigiBook release for Blu-ray, Warner has set an early-February release for the classic 'Being There.'
Starring the late Peter Sellers and Shirley MacLaine, the Hal Ashby-directed comedy classic will at last get the deluxe treatment when it hits Blu-ray February 3 (day-and-date with a new standard DVD re-issue).
The studio has yet to issue any tech or supplement details for 'Being There,' though we're told to expect a DigiBook release with newly-remastered video and audio and all-new bonus content. As always, watch this space for confirmed details when they come to us.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95
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'House Bunny' Hopping on Blu-ray this December
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Sony Pictures is bringing the hit Anna Faris comedy 'The House Bunny' to Blu-ray in late December with hours of bonus features.
Grossing nearly $50 million at the domestic box office, the Adam Sandler-produced Playboy spoof will hit high-def on December 23, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras boast nearly a dozen production featurettes ("House Bunny Style," "The Girls of Zeta," "Calendar Girls," "Anna Faris: House Mom," "Colin Hanks: Mr. Nice Guy," "Look Who Dropped By," "The Girls Upstairs," "Zetas Transformed," "Getting Ready for a Party," "House Bunny Memories"), additional music featurettes ( "From Song to Set: Katherine McPhee," "From Tour Bus to Trailer: Tyson Ritter," "Introduction to 'I Know What Boys Like'"), an "I Know What Boys Like" music video, and deleted scenes.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $38.95
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'Disaster Movie' Headed to Blu-ray
Tue Oct 14, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
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Bringing the latest "movie" spoof to high-def, Lionsgate has announced an early-January Blu-ray release for 'Disaster Movie.'
The brainchild of Aaron Seltzer (the team behind 'Date Movie,' Epic Movie' and 'Meet the Spartans'), 'Disaster Movie' skewered big-budget Hollywood hits, though it failed to achieve the same blockbuster box office heights as its predecessors.
The $20 million-grossing spoof will hit Blu-ray on January 6, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Final extras have yet to be revealed, though confirmed so far are an audio commentary with the filmmakers, making-of featurettes, and a Sing-Along feature.
There are no tech specs as of yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.95
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First time Cameron broke into the limelight bigtime...
Warner Sets December for Jim Carrey Blu-ray Double Header
Tue Oct 14, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
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Warner has announced an early-December Blu-ray release for a pair of classic Jim Carrey comedies, 'Dumb and Dumber' and 'The Mask.'
Set to debut simultaneously on December 9, both 'Dumb and Dumber' and 'The Mask' will make their next-gen debuts with multiple bonus features.
Extras on 'Dumb and Dumber' include a "Behind the Story" featurette, additional scenes, an alternate ending and the theatrical trailer.
'The Mask' will feature two audio commentaries with the filmmakers, four featurettes, additional scenes, and the theatrical trailer.
There are no confirmed tech specs as of yet, but we'll keep you updated as further information comes to us.
Suggested retail price has been set at $28.95 each.
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Fox Sets January Blu-ray Bow for 'Antwone Fisher'
Wed Oct 15, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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Fox has set a mid-January Blu-ray debut for the Denzel Washington-directed drama 'Antwone Fisher.'
A box office underachiever upon first release, Fox will give the film it's next-gen premiere on Blu-ray January 20. (A standard DVD edition was previously released in 2003.)
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround.
There are no supplement details available, but watch this space for further specs as they're announced.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.99.
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'Drumline' to Pound Blu-ray this January
Wed Oct 15, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
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Fox has announced its latest catalog Blu-ray, setting a mid-January Blu-ray berth for the teen drama 'Drumline.'
According to retail reports, the studio will debut the Nick Cannon starrer on Blu-ray January 13. (A special edition DVD was previously released in 2006.)
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround.
There are no supplement details available as of yet, but a package comparable to the standard DVD is expected. Stay tuned.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.99.
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Universal Outlines 'Mummy' Blu-ray Specs, Exclusives
Wed Oct 15, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
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Universal has officially unveiled final specs for 'The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor' which hits Blu-ray this December as a two-disc set with exclusive content.
As we've previously reported, the studio alerted retailers to a December 16 Blu-ray date for the $100 million--plus grossing sequel, though the studio provided only preliminary specs.
The full details have now been confirmed, with the studio planning a two-disc set with U-Control and BD-Live exclusives.
Extras will feature audio commentary with director Rob Cohen, a suite of featurettes ("The Making of The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor," "From City to Desert," "Legacy of the Terra Cotta," "A Call to Action: The Casting Process," "Preparing for Battle with Brendan Fraser and Jet Li," "Jet Li: Crafting the Emperor Mummy," "Creating New and Supernatural Worlds"), deleted and extended scenes, and a Digital Copy of the film.
Exclusive include U-Control extras "Scene Explorer," "Know Your Mummy," "The Dragon Emperor's Challenge" and a picture-in-picture track. The set will also be BD-Live enabled, with "My Scenes Sharing" and additional exclusive content.
Tech specs for the BD-50 dual-layer presentation enjoy 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video, a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track (48kHz/16-bit), and additional Dolby Digital and subtitle offerings in English, French, and Spanish.
Universal is also planning to bring a 'Mummy' 3-pack to high-def on the same day, which will include 'Tomb of the Dragon Emperor' plus the previously-released Blu-rays of the first two installments in the series, 'The Mummy' and 'The Mummy Returns.' The discs are identical to the released versions, and there are no new collectibles or other value-added content.
As announced, suggested list price for 'The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor' has been set at $39.98, and $89.98 for the 3-Pack.
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Lionsgate Planning 'Bangkok Dangerous' Blu for January
Thu Oct 16, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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Lionsgate is planning an early-January Blu-ray release for the actioner 'Bangkok Dangerous.'
Debuting at No. 1 at the domestic box office, the Nicolas Cage-starrer will hit Blu-ray on January 6, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
There are no tech or supplement specs as of yet, but Lionsgate has revealed box art indicating a two-disc set and Digital Copy. As always, we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.98.
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Summit to Release Trio of Music Blu-rays this November
Thu Oct 16, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
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Announcing a trio of next-gen music titles, Summit Entertainment will bring live concert releases from Barenaked Ladies, O.A.R., and Heart to Blu-ray this November.
Kicking off the indie distributor's November music slate will be 'O.A.R.: Live at Madison Square Garden' on November 4, followed three weeks later on November 25 by 'Barenaked Ladies: Talk to the Hand - Live in Michigan' and 'Heart: Dreamboat Annie Live.'
Preliminary text specs see 1080 video (1.78:1) on all three releases, though there is no confirmation yet on audio.
Extras will be comparable to the standard DVD extras, including featurettes, band interviews and more.
Suggested retail price has been set at $34.99 each.
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Tokyo Shock Jumps into Blu with 'Death Trance'
Thu Oct 16, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
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Next-gen newcomer Tokyo Shock has announced their debut Blu-ray release, setting a late-January date for the martial arts actioner 'Death Trance.'
One of the leading distributors of Asian cinema on DVD, Tokyo Shock will kick-off its Blu-ray support on January 27 when it releases the Tak Sakaguchi-starrer.
Due to the early announcement, Tokyo Shock has yet to confirm final tech specs or supplement details, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price has been set at $24.95.
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'Being There' Blu-ray to Get Exclusives
Thu Oct 16, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
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Warner has unveiled final details for 'Being There,' which will hit high-def this February in a standard Blu-ray edition with all-new exclusive content.
As previously reported, Warner announced 'Being There' for a February 3 Blu-ray release (day-and-date with a new DVD re-issue), and the title was expected to be the latest in the studio's line of DigiBook catalog releases.
Full specs are now in, with Warner confirming a standard Blu-ray edition, with 1080p/VC-1 video and English Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras shared with the DVD version include a lone featurette, "Memories from Being There."
Exclusive to the next-gen edition are deleted scenes, an alternate ending and outtakes.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $28.95.
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First Look to Bring 'Way of War' to Blu-ray
Fri Oct 17, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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First Look has set an early-February arrival for the action-thriller 'The Way of War.'
Little is known about the Cuba Gooding Jr.-starrer, which sees him playing a paramilitary operative who goes on a rampage after discovering a war conspiracy. The John Carter-directed pic has yet to receive a theatrical release date, suggesting the film may go direct-to-video when it hits Blu-ray and DVD on February 10.
There are no tech or supplement specs as of yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.98.
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Fox Sets Specs for 'Home Alone,' 'Jingle All the Way' Blu-rays
Fri Oct 17, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
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Fox has officially announced the holiday pair of 'Home Alone' and 'Jingle All the Way,' for December Blu-ray release, both of which will hit high-def with multiple bonus features.
Giving retailers an early alert last week, Fox set a December 2 street date for the Macaulay Culkin blockbuster and the Arnold Schwarzenegger family farce, though they stopped short on issuing any specifics.
Just-confirmed specs will see each release receive a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras on 'Home Alone' will match the previous DVD, including audio commentary with director Chris Columbus and Culkin, multiple featurettes ("The Making of Home Alone," "Mac Cam: Behind the Scenes with Macaulay Culkin," "How to Burglar-Proof Your Home: The Stunts of Home Alone," "Home Alone Around The World," "Where's Buzz Now?", "Angels with Filthy Souls"), deleted scenes, alternate takes and a blooper reel.
'Jingle All the Way' will feature the extended version of the film, a trio of featurettes ("The Making of a Hero," "Super Kids," "Turbo Man Behind the Mask") and deleted scenes.
As previously announced, suggested retail price for each Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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Echo Bridge Unleashes "BluCube" Box Sets for Blu-ray
Fri Oct 17, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
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Echo Bridge is boxing up its entire next-gen library, with plans to offer 10-disc and 20-disc Blu-ray box set collections this November.
The indie distributor began releasing low-priced Blu-ray titles earlier this year, and has so far amassed a twenty-strong catalog that consumers will now be able to conveniently pick up on November 18 in two different affordable collections.
The 'BluCube (10 Pack)' contains: '10.5 Apocalypse: The Complete Miniseries,' 'Artie Lange's Beer League,' 'Blackbeard,' 'The Big White,' 'Category 7: The End Of The World,' 'The Curse Of King Tut's Tomb,' 'Final Days of Planet Earth,' 'Mortuary,' 'Mysterious Island' and 'The Poseidon Adventure.'
The 'BlueCube (20 Pack)' features all the titles in the 10 Pack, plus ten more hits: 'Angel in the Family,' 'The Colt,' 'Cruel World,' 'The Final Patient,' 'The Last Sentinel,' 'Salem Witch Trials,' 'Salvage,' 'Supernova,' 'The Ten Commandments,' and 'The Woods Have Eyes.'
All discs are identical to the stand-alone versions, and there are no additional extras or collectibles included.
Suggested retail price for the 10 Pack is $79.99, and $149.99 for the 20 Pack.
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'Pinocchio' to Get Platinum Blu-ray Release this March
Fri Oct 17, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
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Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment has announced its next Platinum series Blu-ray release, marking a March debut for the animated classic 'Pinocchio.'
The studio has confirmed a March 10, 2009 street date for 'Pinocchio: 70th Anniversary Platinum Edition,' which will mark the beloved 1940 classic's first trip to high-def.
There are little official specs at this juncture, though early reports from Disney indicate that the Blu-ray will also include a DVD version of the film, BD-Live features, and newly-discovered deleted scenes and an alternate ending.
Disney has also yet to set a suggested list price for the Blu-ray, but as always, watch this space for the latest news as soon as it comes to us.
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Check out the specs for Jim Carrey on Blu-Ray
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Check out the specs for Jim Carrey on Blu-Ray New Line Home Entertainment and Warner Home Video have added Blu-Ray versions of Dumb & Dumber and The Mask to their line-up this fall. We have finally been able to obtain the full specs for these anticipated titles.
In Dumb & Dumber, Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels are hilarious as a pair of loveable losers on a cross-country road trip to return a briefcase full of cash to its beautiful owner (Lauren Holly). During the course of their moronic mission, these indomitable dimwits confound cops, kidnappers, rednecks and anyone unlucky enough to cross their paths.
The Blu-Ray Disc will feature the Unrated Cut of the movie with six minutes of new footage, in 1080p high definition with a Dolby Digital 5.1 TrueHD audio track. As extras the disc will contain a Retrospective Documentary called “Still Dumb After All These Years,” as well as Deliriously Dumb Moments. Clips of “Big Fire Stunt,” “Kung Fu Chef,” “Most Annoying Sound” and “The Toilet Scene” are also included, as well as a number of Additional Scenes and Alternate Endings. The release will be topped off by the movie’s Theatrical Trailers.
In The Mask, Jim Carrey stars as mild-mannered bank clerk Stanley Ipkiss, who discovers a mysterious ancient mask that brings his inner most desires to wild, screaming life! Now, together with his sidekick Milo, this wise-cracking green tornado is taking Edge City over the top in this romantic-action-comedy that will leave you S-s-s-smokin'!
Featuring a 1080p high def transfer with Dolby Digital 5.1 TrueHD audio, the release will also feature a Commentary Track with Director Charles Russell, Co-Chairman of New Line Cinema Bob Shaye, Writer Mike Werb, Executive producer Mike Richardson, Producer Bob Engelman, ILM VFX supervisor Scott Squires, Animation Supervisor Tom Bertino, and Cinematographer John Leonetti. Director Charles Russell will also appear on a second Commentary Track all by himself.
The Retrospective Documentary “Return to Edge City” will be part of the release also, as well as the Featurette “Introducing Cameron Diaz.”
Next up is Cartoon Logic and the featurette, “What Makes Fido Run?” To round out the release there will also be the movie’s Theatrical Trailers
Both titles are slated for release on December 9, each with a $28.99 sticker price attached.
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Genius Products prepares River Queen
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Genius Products has announced a DVD version of the action drama River Queen for November.
Two-time Oscar nominee Samantha Morton, Kiefer Sutherland and Cliff Curtis star in this epic romance set against the breathtaking beauty of 19th century rural New Zealand.
Morton portrays the daughter of an Irish-born army surgeon (Stephen Rea) who falls for a Maori tribesman -- only to have to raise their child alone when her lover dies of influenza. After the boy is kidnapped by his chieftain grandfather, Morton’s quest to find him leaves her torn between her life with an Irish soldier devoted to her family -- and a Maori freedom fighter who stirs her passions.
Featuring an anamorphic widescreen transfer with Dolby Digital 5.1 audio, “River Queen” will arrive on November 25 for $24.95.
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Samsung Blu-ray player for $152 if you buy The Matrix Collection
By Henning Molbaek
(http://www.dvdtown.com/images/displayimage.php?id=9405)
It is now possible to get Samsung BD-P1500 1080p Blu-ray Player with "The Ultimate Matrix Collection" for a good price.
Here is the deal. Buy the Samsung BD-P1500 1080p Blu-ray Player for $226.86 and get "The Ultimate Matrix Collection [Blu-ray]" for free. A $74.95 value.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0014H16V0/?tag=dvdtown-20
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New James Bond Ultimate Editions on Blu-ray
By James Plath
By Mondo Kane
LAST UPDATED Oct 19, 2008
UPDATED: DVD EDITIONS ADDED!
UPDATE... Here is a reminder of the six new James Bond Blu-ray "Ultimate Editions" debuting in a few days (October 21), available individually or packaged in two "3-packs" (see more details below).
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> Also on DVD »
MGM Home Entertainment has recently announced these same titles are also being released in "2-disc DVD Ultimate Editions" (available individually). In addition to the six titles scheduled to debut Tuesday, one more Bond film is being released on DVD: Octopussy.
See our previous announcement below...
Los Angeles, Calif. –More Details have been released on the first wave of James Bond Blu-rays from MGM and Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment.
Recently restored and re-mastered for the highest quality picture and sound quality via the state-of-the-art Lowry process digital frame-by-frame restoration and featuring special features galore, the first six (Dr. No, Die Another Day, Live and Let Die, For Your Eyes Only, From Russia with Love, and Thunderball) arrive on Blu-ray disc timed to coincide with the highly anticipated worldwide theatrical premiere of the 22nd James Bond mission, QUANTUM OF SOLACE this November. The discs will be hit the streets on October 21, 2008.
Each individual James Bond Blu-ray disc will be available for the suggested retail price of $34.98 ($46.98 Canada) and will be packaged with a bonus movie ticket for the all-new Bond adventure, Quantum of Solace.
Additionally, the films will be available in two 3-pack Blu-ray Disc collections with two movie tickets, for $89.98 ($119.98 Canada) --
Volume One:
DR. NO
DIE ANOTHER DAY
LIVE AND LET DIE
Volume Two:
FOR YOUR EYES ONLY
FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE
THUNDERBALL
Disc Specific Bonus Features:
DR. NO
-"The Complete Special Features Library: Mission Dossier" - Audio Commentary Featuring Director Terence Young and Members of the Cast and Crew
-"Top Level Access 007: License to Restore" – Featurette detailing the Bond Ultimate Edition film restoration process
-"Declassified: M16 Vault" - The Guns of James Bond
-Premiere Bond
-"007 Mission Control" Interactive Guide Into the World of Dr. No
-Inside Dr. No
-Terence Young: Bond Vivant
-Dr. No 1963 Featurette
-"Ministry of Propaganda" - Original Trailers, TV Spots, Photo Gallery and Radio Communications
DIE ANOTHER DAY
-"The Complete Special Features Library: Mission Dossier" - Audio Commentary Featuring Director Lee Tamahori and Producer Michael G. Wilson
-Audio Commentary Featuring Pierce Brosnan and Rosamund Pike
-"Declassified: M16 Vault" - From Script to Screen
-Shaken and Stirred on Ice
-Just Another Day
-The British Touch: Bond Arrives in London
-On Location With Peter Lamont
-"007 Mission Control" Interactive Guide Into the World of Die Another Day
-MI6 DataStream
-Additional DVD-ROM Features Available!
-Madonna´s "Die Another Day" Music Video
-"Ministry of Propaganda" Photo gallery
LIVE AND LET DIE
-Audio Commentary Featuring Sir Roger Moore
-"The Complete Special Features Library: Mission Dossier" - Audio Commentary Featuring Guy Hamilton
-Audio Commentary Featuring Tom Mankiewicz
-"Declassified: M16 Vault" - Bond 1973: The Lost Documentary
-Roger Moore as James Bond, Circa 1964
-Live and Let Die Conceptual Art
-"007 Mission Control" Interactive Guide Into the World of Live and Let Die
-Inside Live and Let Die
-On Set With Roger Moore
-"Ministry of Propaganda" - Original Trailers, TV Spots, Photo Gallery and Radio Communications
FOR YOUR EYES ONLY
-Audio Commentary Featuring Sir Roger Moore
-"The Complete Special Features Library: Mission Dossier" - Audio Commentary Featuring John Glen and Actors
-Audio Commentary Featuring Michael G Wilson and Crew
-"Declassified: M16 Vault" Deleted Scenes and Expanded Angles
-Bond in Greece, Bond in Cortina
-Neptune´s Journey
-"007 Mission Control" Interactive Guide Into the World of For Your Eyes Only
-Inside For Your Eyes Only
-Animated Storyboard Sequences
-Sheena Easton´s "For Your Eyes Only" Music Video
-"Ministry of Propaganda" - Original Trailers, TV Spots, Photo Gallery and Radio Communications
FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE
-"The Complete Special Features Library: Mission Dossier" - Audio Commentary Featuring Director Terence Young and Members of the Cast and Crew
-"Declassified: M16 Vault" Ian Fleming: The CBC Interview
-Ian Fleming and Raymond Chandler
-Ian Fleming on Desert Island Discs
-Animated Storyboard Sequence
-"007 Mission Control" Interactive Guide Into the World of From Russia With Love
-Inside From Russia With Love
-Harry Saltzman: Showman
-"Ministry of Propaganda" - Original Trailers, TV Spots, Photo Gallery and Radio Communications
THUNDERBALL
-"The Complete Special Features Library: Mission Dossier" - Audio Commentary Featuring Terence Young and Others
-Audio Commentary Featuring Peter Hunt, John Hopkins and Others
-"Declassified: M16 Vault" The Incredible World of James Bond - Original 1965 NBC Television Special
-A Child´s Guide to Blowing Up a Motor Car (1965 Ford Promotional Film On Location With Ken Adam)
-Bill Suitor: The Rocket Man Movies
-Thunderball Boat Show Reel
-Selling Bonds (original 1965 Television Advertisements)
-"007 Mission Control" Interactive Guide Into the World of Thunderball
-The Making of Thunderball
-The Thunderball Phenomenon
-The Secret History of Thunderball
-"Ministry of Propaganda" - Original Trailers, TV Spots, Photo Gallery and Radio Communications
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Huge Blu-ray Revenue Increases, Record Market Share for the Week Ending October 5th
October 11, 2008 by Dave CowlgravatarcloseAuthor: Dave Cowl Name: Dave Cowl
Email: [email protected]
Site: http://www.blu-raystats.com
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The Blu-ray weekly revenue and market share versus DVD as reported by Home Media Magazine both hit a new high for the week ending October 5th.
Fueled by the record sales of Iron Man, revenue was up over 145% to $26.8M, while the 13% market share set a new record for the top 20 Blu-ray versus DVD.
Iron Man stole the show that week, selling nearly 15 times as many units as Forgetting Sarah Marshall which placed second.
Sex and the City was third, followed by Transformers and The Godfather - The Coppola Restoration.
Other titles of interest in the top 10 included Speed Racer in 6th place, and When We Left Earth - The NASA Missions in 8th.
It will be interesting to see if the NASA title becomes as popular as Planet Earth - The Complete BBC Series, which seems to always be in the top 20 - this week it was number 16.
Perhaps due to the live action movie release, the animated Invincible Iron Man disc placed 11th on the chart.
The per title market share chart shows that Iron Man sold over 17% of its units on Blu-ray - a great achievement for a title that sells to casual DVD buyers.
Universal’s Ultimate Unrated Comedy Collection sold over 96% of its units on Blu-ray - of course, all three titles were new for Blu-ray, where only one was a new release for DVD.
Other recent releases that had over half their sales on Blu-ray included The Sixth Sense, Daredevil, The Godfather - The Coppola Restoration, Predator and L.A. Confidential.
The Discovery Channel continues to do well for Blu-ray, with both Planet Earth - The Complete BBC Series and When We Left Earth - The NASA Missions selling around a third of their units on Blu-ray Disc.
Recent Universal comedy releases Forgetting Sarah Marshall and Leatherheads both did well for that genre with a Blu-ray market share of 7.76% and 6.86% respectively.
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HBO Brings 'Generation Kill' to Blu-ray
Mon Oct 20, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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The Iraq War is coming to high-def, with HBO announcing a mid-December Blu-ray release for the acclaimed mini-series 'Generation Kill.'
Based on the memoirs of a Rolling Stone reporter who documented the first days of the invasion of Iraq, 'Generation Kill' will come to Blu-ray on December 16, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
HBO has yet to announce any tech or supplement details, though the Blu-ray is scheduled to be a three-disc set, so we will hope for extensive extras. Stay tuned.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $79.98.
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Disney to Cast 'Swing Vote' on Blu this January
Mon Oct 20, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
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Just in time for the presidential inauguration, Walt Disney Studios has set a mid-January Blu-ray bow for the political comedy 'Swing Vote.'
Starring Kevin Costner, 'Swing Vote' grossed nearly $30 million at the domestic box office this past summer. Disney will debut the mildly-received satire on January 13, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
There are no tech or supplement specs known at this time, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.98.
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'Space Buddies' Coming to Blu-ray this February
Mon Oct 20, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
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Announcing its latest direct-to-high-def premiere release, Walt Disney Studios will bring the family comedy 'Space Buddies' to Blu-ray in early February.
The second DTV sequel to the canine comedy 'Air Bud,' 'Space Buddies' will hit Blu-ray on February 3, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
There are no tech or supplement specs known at this time, but we expect final details from Disney in the coming weeks, so we'll keep you posted.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95
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'Wedding Crashers' Coming to Blu-ray
Mon Oct 20, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
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Warner has announced it is bringing the blockbuster comedy 'Wedding Crashers' to Blu-ray in late-December in both theatrical and unrated versions.
Set to make its high-def debut on December 30, 'Wedding Crashers: Uncorked Edition' will feature both the 119-minute theatrical and 128-minute unrated cuts of the film.
The $200 million-plus-grossing Vince Vaughn-Owen Wilson starrer will also include dual audio commentaries (with director David Dobkin, and Wilson and Vaughn), a pair of featurettes, deleted scenes, a music video and theatrical trailers.
There are no tech specs yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $28.95.
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MVD Goes 'Gunnin' on Blu-ray with Basketball Doc
Tue Oct 21, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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Music Video Distribution has announced a November debut for the basketball documentary 'Gunnin' for That #1 Spot.'
Directed by Beastie Boy Adam Yauch, 'Gunnin' for That #1 Spot' chronicles the journey of eight of the U.S.'s top high school basketball players as they compete in the first "Elite 24" tournament in New York's Rucker Park.
MVD will debut the acclaimed doc on November 4.
There are no announced tech or supplement specs, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.98.
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'Amadeus' to Get Blu-ray DigiBook Release this February
Tue Oct 21, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
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After almost a year of anticipation, Warner has officially set an early-February Blu-ray debut for the Oscar-winning classic 'Amadeus.'
Starring Tom Hulce and F. Murray Abraham, the critically-acclaimed, Milos Forman-directed musical biopic was originally expected to receive a Blu-ray release in 2008. Warner has at last confirmed a street date for the 1984 Best Picture winner, which will get the DigiBook treatment on February 10.
Tech specs will see the 180-minute Director's Cut version of the film spread across a BD-50 dual-layer disc in 1080p/VC-1 video and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras include an audio commentary with Foreman, as well as "The Making of 'Amadeus'" documentary.
Also in the Blu-ray set will be a bonus CD sampler with ten musical selections from the film, and a Digital Copy of the Director's Cut (in SD).
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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Warner to Bring 'History of Violence' to Blu-ray
Tue Oct 21, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
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Warner has set an early-February Blu-ray date for the acclaimed crime drama 'A History of Violence.'
Based on the popular graphic novel, the David Cronenberg-directed thriller is set to make its next-gen debut on February 10. (New Line previously released the film as a special edition DVD in 2005.)
Extras for the release include audio commentary with Cronenberg, a "Violence's History" comparison of the U.S. theatrical and International versions of the film, a series of "Acts of Violence" vignettes that take a look at several central scenes in the film, additional footage, and the theatrical trailer.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/VC-1 video and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $28.95.
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Amazon Launches Latest Buy 2 Get 1 Free Sale
Tue Oct 21, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
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The online retailer has announced its latest Blu-ray promotion with the launch of a buy 2 get 1 free offer beginning today.
The newest sale includes 147 titles, including old favorites like 'The Fifth Element,' 'I Am Legend,' 'The Fugitive,' and 'The Departed.'
The sale begins today, but we have not been told how long it is expected to last. If you're interested, you may want to check it out now!
http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html/ref=amb_link_7741912_1?ie=UTF8&docId=1000291141&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=ilm&pf_rd_r=03PCSMB9NATF8SCG21Y6&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=453248401&pf_rd_i=193640011&tag=panandscathed-20
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Friedkin to Start Work on 'Exorcist' Blu-ray for 2009
Wed Oct 22, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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In an online interview, director William Friedkin has revealed that he will begin work on a high-def version of 'The Exorcist' for Blu-ray release in 2009.
Speaking to DVD Review UK, the Oscar-winning director confirmed that Warner is planning to start preparations in early December for a new edition of the 1973 horror classic.
Friedkin had no further details on supplements or restoration plans for what is sure to be a highly-anticipated release, but we expect further word to emerge over the coming months.
According to the director, Warner is currently eyeing a Fall 2009 Blu-ray release for 'The Exorcist.' As always, we'll keep you posted.
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'Surfer, Dude' to Ride Blu Wave this December
Wed Oct 22, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
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Anchor Bay has announced it is bringing the little-seen Matthew McConaughey film 'Surfer, Dude' to Blu-ray in late December.
Long a pet project for the surf-loving actor, 'Surfer, Dude' received only a scant theatrical release earlier this year and was poorly-received by audiences and critics.
Anchor Bay will give 'Surfer, Dude' a Blu-ray release on December 30, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
There are no tech specs yet, but extras will include audio commentary, a featurette, deleted scenes, and making-of webisodes.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.98.
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'The Women' Headed to Blu-ray
Wed Oct 22, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
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In an announcement to retailers, Warner has set a late-December bow for the distaff comedy 'The Women.'
Starring Meg Ryan, Annette Bening, and Bette Midler, the remake of the 1930s classic struggled in development for over a decade, and grossed $30 million at the domestic box office this past Summer.
New Line, via Warner Home Video, will debut the Blu-ray on December 24 (day-and-date with the standard DVD).
There are no tech or supplement specs available as of yet, but watch this space for final details to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $38.95.
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'Vicky Cristina Barcelona' Coming to Blu-ray
Thu Oct 23, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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The Weinstein Co. has announced a late-January Blu-ray date for the latest Woody Allen comedy, 'Vicky Cristina Barcelona.'
Earning Allen some of his best reviews and box office in years, the Javier Bardem-Scarlett Johansson starrer will mark the auteur's next-gen debut when it hits Blu-ray on January 27 (day-and-date with the standard DVD).
Typical of Allen titles on video, there will be no supplementary material save for the film's theatrical trailer.
Tech specs will see 1080p video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.98.
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Sony Music Brings Ricky Martin 'Black & White Tour' to Blu
Thu Oct 23, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
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In an urgent alert to retailers, Sony Music has announced it will bring Ricky Martin's debut high-def release 'Black & White Tour' to Blu-ray in late November.
Filmed during a stop on the Latin heartthrob's recent world tour, 'Ricky Martin Live: Black & White Tour' was captured entirely with HD cameras and features a setlist that includes such Martin hits as "Living a Vida Loca" and "She Bangs."
Sony will release the Blu-ray on November 25, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
The studio has yet to announce tech specs or supplement details, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $24.98.
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Warner Serves Up 'Any Given Sunday' Director's Cut Blu-ray
Thu Oct 23, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
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Warner has announced it is bringing Oliver Stone's sports drama 'Any Given Sunday' to Blu-ray in late January in its Director's Cut version.
A 1999 box office hit for Stone, the Al Pacino-Cameron Diaz starrer will make its Blu-ray debut on January 27. (Warner previously released standard and special edition versions of the film on DVD.)
Presented in its 150-minute director's cut form, the film will be spread across a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p/VC-1 video and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
No word on extras as of yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $28.95.
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Could a recession be fatal for Blu-ray?
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Analyst are split but some believe that the economic recession could hurt Blu-ray and even be fatal for the format. US analyst Roger Kay, president of Endpoint Technologies Associates goes as far as saying "Blu-ray is heading for a recession-induced heart attack!"
However, not all sees the future so bleak. Reed Hastings, the CEO of Netflix still believes that Blu-ray eventually will replace regular DVD. The company also predicted that close to 500.000 subscribers will pay the extra $1 a month giving them access to Blu-ray rentals.
In what is no surprise, Andy Parsons, the chairman of the US Blu-ray Disc Association, remains confident and remind people "Everyone thinks of DVD as an overnight success, but it actually took several years for that overnight success to happen," and continues "We're hopeful even though things are getting a little tough out there, economically speaking."
US-based Entertainment Merchants Association also says that Blu-ray is on target to outsell DVD in 2012.
Here on DVDTOWN.com we have no doubt that Blu-ray will survive and be here to stay for years to come. The question is how big it will be. Personally I believe that it is very important that the industry has to realize that Blu-ray isn't a way to charge a premium for hardware and software but rather a way to keep people interested in buying discs in the future. Luckily we are seeing players starting to hit the $200 mark and below which is crucial for market penetration.
So, to answer the headline question: "Could recession be fatal for Blu-ray?" - No! But that doesn't mean that it is a home run. Blu-ray should work out and stay healthy and not sell itself too expensive.
Source: Netflix, HCC Magazine, BDA
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A look at the James Bond Blu-ray packaging
By Henning Molbaek
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Inspired by a thread on our message board, here is a closer look at the packaging of the new James Bond Blu-ray sets.
Some people like special packaging, others like the "normal" blue plastic containers that make organizing your collection on a shelf much easier.
In the case of the "James Bond Blu-ray Collection Three-Pack," Vol. 1 and 2, MGM and Fox went for the special packaging. This means that there are NO normal Blu-ray covers or booklets in the box.
To make it easier for you to decide if you like the box sets or want to purchase the movies separately, I decided to take some pictures of my box set.
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Walt Disney Pictures "Tinker Bell" on DVD & Blu-ray (Oct 28)
By James Plath
By Mondo Kane
It's taken 55 years, but the most beloved fairy in animation history is finally getting her own spin-off movie.
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TINKER BELL is now available on Disney DVD and Blu-ray. The new animated adventure reveals the origin of Peter Pan's fairy pal and delves into the magical role of fairies in nature.
From two-time Academy Award-winner John Lasseter, chief creative officer of Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios, and the storytellers at Walt Disney Pictures comes a film that has more stars than pixie dust. Along with introducing extraordinary new characters, Tinker Bell is enhanced by an impressive voice cast widely acclaimed for performances on stage and screen. Mae Whitman (Independence Day) gives voice to Tinker Bell, while America Ferrera (Ugly Betty) provides the voice of the mischievous animal fairy Fawn. Five-time Image Award honoree Raven-Symone (That's So Raven) is the light fairy Iridessa, Kristin Chenoweth (RV, Pushing Daisies) is the garden fairy Rosetta, Lucy Liu (Charlie's Angels) plays the water fairy Silvermist, singer-songwriter Jesse McCartney is keeper-of-the-pixie-dust Terrence, and Academy Award-winner Anjelica Huston reigns over Pixie Hollow as Queen Clarion.
Pixie Hollow is a secret hideway located deep in the heart of Never Land, and it's the work of fairies that flowers have color and dew drops appear, we're told in this whimsical animated tale. Every fairy is born with a special talent, and Tinker Bell thinks her talent as a "tinker" isn't as important as the rest, because tinkers don't go to the mainland like the rest of the fairies. And so Tinker Bell tries to change who she is, with disastrous results. Eventually, she learns a common Disney theme: being yourself is special enough.
TINKER BELL (Rated G) is the first in a planned series that will feature Disney fairies in the House of Mouse version of the "Fairytopoia" series. The DVD has a suggested retail price of $29.99, and $34.99 for the high-def Blu-ray.
http://www.dvdtown.com/news/walt-disney-pictures-tinker-bell-on-dvd--blu-ray-oct-28/5596
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MY TWO CENTS - 10/24/08 - by Digital Bits editor Bill Hunt
In news today, we're getting reports from readers that some of you are having trouble playing all of MGM and Fox's new James Bond Blu-ray Discs. Problems are being reported so far on Panasonic, Sony, Pioneer and Samsung units, but there's no real pattern emerging yet that we can see. Now, we have Panasonic's BD10, BD30 and BD50 players here at The Bits, and we're not having problems on any of them, however we've been very careful to make sure that the firmware on each is up to date. So the first thing I would suggest, if you're having troubles, is that you update your firmware. (Visit this web page which will guide you to the latest downloadable updates available for your model. You can also contact your manufacturer for update discs by mail if you're more comfortable with that, and those of you with profile 2.0 players connected to the Internet should be able to update your firmware via your player's menus.) That should take care of some of the problems. A few people are still reporting problems even after having updated their firmware, so I suspect that a couple manufacturers are going to have to issue new firmware updates to deal with the issue. Be sure to contact your manufacturer's Blu-ray tech support people right away if you're having a problem, so they can quickly address it for everyone. We'll post updates here as we learn more.
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Extreme Skiing Comes to Blu-ray with 'Warren Miller's Playground'
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In a late-breaking announcement, the extreme skiing documentary 'Warren Miller's Playground' is bound for Blu-ray in early November.
Featuring interviews and breathtaking footage of some of the most intense extreme skiing stunts ever performed, 'Warren Miller's Playground' will come to Blu-ray on November 4 (day-and-date with the standard DVD) from indie distributor Shout Factory.
There are no tech or supplement specs confirmed even at this late date, but as always, we'll post as soon as further details come to us.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.98.
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'My Best Friend's Girl' Bound for Blu-ray
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Lionsgate plans to bring the romantic comedy 'My Best Friend's Girl' to Blu-ray this January with exclusive content and Digital Copy.
Starring Dane Cook and Kate Hudson, 'My Best Friend's Girl' grossed just under $20 million at the domestic box office during its theatrical run this Fall. Lionsgate will debut the film on Blu-ray January 13, day-and-date with the DVD version.
Extras shared between the Blu-ray and DVD include a filmmaker commentary, multiple making-of featurettes, deleted & extended scenes and a gag reel.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray is a Digital Copy of the film, and the BD-Live-enabled interactive "The Tanking Game," which allows viewers to add their own content to a seven-minute scene from the film in order to "tank" the date between the on-screen characters.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.98.
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Top Ten Horror Classics -- Where are the Blu-rays? (UPDATED)
We're kicking off a new feature to explore some of the top titles on the format, or in this case, the top titles that remain nowhere to found. To kick things off, our own Ken Brown has pulled together a dripping, oozing, gory list of the horror classics we all want NOW! We're looking forward to seeing your own lists in the forums!
UPDATE! 'A Nightmare On Elm Street' is available in Canadian Best Buy stores. Sadly, the title has not been scheduled for a U.S. release. Import away!
Trick or treat, kiddies! It's that time of year when goblins and witches watch warily as their young Iron Men and Batmen trot up to strangers' houses and beg for candy of unknown origins. A time to nuzzle down in your home theaters, blot out the lights, and take in some of the scariest, most disturbing flicks you can imagine. Here at High-Def Digest, we've been digging out old classics and reviewing new frightfests, all the while lamenting the horror films that have yet to earn a Blu-ray release. So join me as I dig out ten of my favorites -- a collection of personal classics I hope to be watching in high definition come next October.
When you're finished looking over the chillers and thrillers I've listed, make sure to drop by the HDD Forums and tell us which films you'd love to see claw their way onto BD disc. Have a fantastic Halloween!
AUDITION
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Controversial Japanese mastermind Takashi Miike ('Visitor Q,' 'Ichi the Killer,' and 'Happiness of the Katakuris, to name a few) is one sick puppy. 'Audition' is hands down one of the most disquieting, unsettling horror films I've ever had to endure. While it starts out innocently enough, 'Audition' slowly descends into madness as bizarre encounters, creepy tic-tic-ticking, and a nauseating torture scene make this a tough one to sit through no matter how many times I've watched it over the years. This is genuine horror. No cheap or unnecessary scares, no cliched cardboard cutouts for characters, no supernatural baddie to contend with. More importantly, it boasts subtle, nuanced performances, palpable tension, and enough realistic gore to make the most hardened among you squirm in your seats. I can't recommend this one enough.
DEAD ALIVE (aka BRAINDEAD)
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On the opposite end of the spectrum is one of my favorite horror-comedies of all time. Many people seem to think writer/director extraordinaire Peter Jackson appeared on the scene with a trio of 'Rings' films for the masses. However, those of you familiar with Jackson's early work know the filmmaker has a truly sick-n-twisted imagination. 'Dead Alive' is a gruesome little New Zealand indie that nearly made me vomit the first time I watched it (the custard scene, anyone?) -- luckily, I was laughing too hard to choke up any chunks. As a zombie flick, this one's a blast that will ensure you never look at a lawnmower the same way again. As a comedy, it's loaded with laughs, over-the-top effects, and hilarious performances. Either way you approach 'Dead Alive,' you probably won't be disappointed!
THE EXORCIST
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I've heard some people say you have to believe in demonic possession to to be truly unsettled by William Peter Blatty's 'The Exorcist.' Humbug, I say. Like any horror classic, 'The Exorcist' works because it introduces a collection of flawed characters who, in the face of bizarre circumstances, must sacrifice everything (including their beliefs, doubts, and pride) to save a young girl from a supernatural evil. Sure, the 35-year-old special effects are dated and unimpressive, but the film doesn't need polished effects to make the crucifix scene effective, Karras' conversations with his dead mother frightening, or Merrin's struggle with an ancient but familiar foe tragic. It simply relies on our bond with its well-developed characters, a foreboding sense of dread, and a chilling atmosphere to tell a solid story about normal people encountering the abnormal. 'The Exorcist' is a true horror classic that shouldn't be missed.
MISERY
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I've always been a big fan of Stephen King's novels. I count his 'Dark Tower' series among the most essential modern literature on the market. However, film adaptations of his stories have been... let's just say, less than impressive. 'Misery,' the deceptively simple tale of a famous writer kept prisoner by an unstable fan, is not only surprisingly faithful to King's minimalistic novel, but it's loaded with an intense game of psychological cat and mouse that really gets under your skin. Over the course of two short hours, Kathy Bates and a sledge hammer become an iconic horror duo, James Caan truly makes you believe he's going through hell on earth, and the clack-clack of a typewriter will be stuck in your brain for days. Easily my favorite adaptation of one of King's horror novels, 'Misery' is an oft-overlooked gem.
A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET
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Scheduled for a Blu-ray release earlier this year, 'A Nightmare on Elm Street' suddenly disappeared without a trace, leaving Freddy fans in complete disbelief. Ah well. Forget the lame sequels and set aside the slapstick renditions of Krueger that may be fresh in your brain, the original (and best) 'Elm Street' flick is a slasher standout that has some of the best classic scares in the annals of horror. Johnny Depp bites it on a hungry mattress, Heather Langenkamp has one of the worst baths imaginable, and the story... gasp... is actually good. Some people get worked up over a lumbering dolt in a hockey mask, some see a white-faced serial killer in their dreams. Me? I'm an 'Elm Street' junkie through and through. The film still manages to get to me years after it first sunk its claws in my impressionable young brain.
NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD
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While every other George A. Romero zombie flick has been released on Blu-ray ('Dawn of the Dead,' 'Day of the Dead,' 'Land of the Dead,' and, most recently, 'Diary of the Dead'), the critically-acclaimed undead debut that started it all, 'Night of the Living Dead,' is nowhere to be found. Effortlessly blending social commentary with psychological and physical horror, Romero created a genre, raised serious questions within an otherwise implausible alternate reality, and influenced countless filmmakers who wanted to bring their own visions of the dead to the big screen. It never ceases to amaze me that the most frightening scenes in 'Night of the Living Dead' center around the survivors rather than the walking dead. Ultimately, Romero managed to bring vision, originality, and intelligence to a genre that sorely needed all three.
ROSEMARY'S BABY
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'Rosemary's Baby' doesn't follow the traditional, linear path from scare to scare like most genre pics. For anyone who isn't familiar with the 1968 award-winning classic, the story follows a young pregnant woman who begins to suspect that her friends and family have nefarious plans for her unborn child. Instead of jolts and frights, director Roman Polanski used a timid and reluctant performance from Mia Farrow to create a creepy atmosphere of mounting doubt and confusion. The people around her are too friendly, her suspicion quickly becomes our suspicion, and her eventual terror transfers to us as well. The film also plays on the inherent worries and fears of first-time parents, giving Farrow's am-I-normal, am-I-insane inner turmoil a relevance that has helped the film keep its edge over the last four decades.
SCREAM
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While unwarranted sequels and damning parodies have neutered the original impact of director Wes Craven and writer Kevin Williamson's 1996 slasher-revamp, 'Scream,' I still consider it to be one of the best horror films of the '90s. It not only reinvented and revisited reliable horror conventions, it satirized their rampant proliferation over the years without resorting to comedy or parody. 'Scream' still stands on its own as an excellent slasher with an unexpected twist ending, but also takes several timely and clever jabs at everything that made the subgenre popular in the first place. This careful balance of satire and horror shouldn't have worked, but Craven and Williamson managed to craft a compelling cast of characters, inject new blood into familiar scenes, and deliver the horror goods from beginning to end.
SEVEN
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Before you argue that 'Seven' isn't a horror film, let's consider the evidence. A surprise awakening is responsible for one of the most unpredictable and strong scares in cinema history, another victim has a nervous breakdown as he begs to have a stomach-churning weapon removed from his body, and a harmless cardboard box contains one of the most gruesome unseen sights of all time. To this day, Pitt's cries of "what's in the box" still makes the hair on my neck stand at attention. David Fincher may not be a genre director, but he sure knows how to pack some genuine scares into what could have been a standard procedural thriller. It may not fill the bill of gorehounds and slasher-fanatics, but I drag 'Seven' off of my shelf every Halloween long before I watch other, more conventional classics.
THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS
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Considering the fact that one of the most terrifying elements of 'The Silence of the Lambs' is confined to a prison cell (in one form or another) for 98% of the film, you might think this Jodie Foster vehicle would be a relative bore. However, a sinister serial killer who makes clothes out of women's skin, an eerie manhunt, and several choice encounters with Anthony Hopkins' grinning monster make this one a slow-burning horror masterpiece. It even had enough weight to earn Academy attention. Once again, atmosphere trumps scares, meticulous performances trump disturbing imagery, and sharp dialogue trumps cliched conversations. Like 'Seven,' you may not think of this one when pulling horror films off your shelf, but 'The Silence of the Lambs' remains a thinking man's horror classic.
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Foo Fighters 'Live at Wembley' to Rock Blu-ray
Mon Oct 27, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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Sony Music has set a mid-November date for the Foo Fighter's Blu-ray debut 'Live at Wembley.'
Filmed at the legendary London venue, 'Foo Fighters: Live at Wembley Stadium' features the rockers performing all of their biggest hits in front of a sold-out crowd of nearly 70,000.
Sony Music has yet to announce tech specs or supplement details, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.98.
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Warner Outlines 'Shawshank' Blu-ray Specs
Mon Oct 27, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
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Warner has announced final specs for 'The Shawshank Redemption,' which will receive the DigiBook treatment and Dolby TrueHD audio when it hits Blu-ray in early December.
As previously announced, the much-beloved modern classic (which currently sits atop IMDB's Greatest 250 Movies of All-Time user's poll) will finally hit high-def on December 2.
The studio has now confirmed final tech specs, which will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/VC-1 video, and audio flavors in English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround and English, French and Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround.
Extras will match the previous DVD special edition, including audio commentary with director Frank Darabont, a pair of featurettes ("Hope Springs Eternal: A Look Back at the Shawshank Redemption," "Shawshank: The Redeeming Feature"), a "Charlie Rose Show" interview with Darabont, Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman, the comic spoof "The Sharktank Redemption," a still gallery and theatrical trailer.
Housed in Warner's DigiBook packaging, suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.99.
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'The Women' Blu-ray Gets Specs, Extras
Mon Oct 27, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
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Final specs are in for New Line's December Blu-ray release of 'The Women,' with the film enjoying multiple bonus features but no high-res audio.
As first announced last week, New Line (via Warner Home Video) will release the long-in-development remake on Blu-ray December 23, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Final specs have now been issued, with tech specs seeing 1080p/VC-1 video and standard Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround only.
Extras include a pair of featurettes ("The Women Behind The Women," "The Women: The Legacy") and additional scenes.
As previously announced, suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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'Pineapple Express' Hits Blu-ray with Extended Cut, Exclusives
Mon Oct 27, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
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Sony Pictures has announced an early-January Blu-ray release for 'The Pineapple Express,' which will come to high-def as a two-disc set with hours of bonus features and an extended cut of the film.
Starring Seth Rogen and James Franco, the Judd Apatow-produced sleeper hit grossed nearly $100 million during its domestic run this past summer. Sony will release the film as a two-disc Blu-ray on January 6, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Containing both the R-rated theatrical and unrated extended versions of the film (accessible via seamless branching), the BD-50 dual-layer presentation features 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras spread across two discs include audio commentary (with director David Gordon Green, Seth Rogen, Judd Apatow, Craig Robinson, Danny McBride, Ed Begley Jr., and Rosie Perez), multiple featurettes ("The Making-of Pineapple Express," "The Action of Pineapple Express," "Phone Booth"), two montage reels ("Line-O-Rama," "Direct-O-Rama"), additional vignettes ("Item 9 Experiments," "Saul's Apartment," "Raw Footage," "Begley's Best," "Red and Jessica's Guide to Marriage," "Injury Report," "Stuntmaster Ken," "Rehearsal Footage," "First Table Read," "Comic-Con Panel") and a red-band theatrical trailer.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray is the "Ride the Express" interactive game. Also included is a Digital Copy of the film on a third disc (standard-def only) compatible with PCs, PSP and iTunes.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.98.
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'Three Days Grace: Live at the Palace' Coming to Blu-ray
Tue Oct 28, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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Sony Music has set an early-December retail date for the Blu-ray debut of modern rockers Three Days Grace, 'Live at the Palace.'
Filmed at a stop on the band's sold-out 2007 tour, 'Three Days Grace: Live at the Palace' was captured entirely in HD and features over a dozen of the band's hits.
Sony Music has yet to announce tech specs or supplement details, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.98.
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Universal Announces 'Death Race' for Blu-ray
Tue Oct 28, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
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Universal Studios has set a late-December kickstart for the action remake 'Death Race.'
Starring Jason Statham, this high-octane update of the '70s cult classic will rev its engines on Blu-ray December 23, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Early specs will see both theatrical and unrated versions of the film on the same disc, plus BD-Live features (TBA) and Digital Copy.
Universal is expected to confirm full specs in the coming days, so we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.98.
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'The Wackness' Headed to Blu this January
Tue Oct 28, 2008 at 01:00 PM ET
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The 1994 "period drama" 'The Wackness' is bound for Blu-ray, with Sony Pictures announcing a January next-gen bow with multiple bonus features and Dolby TrueHD audio.
Enjoying only a limited release in theaters this past summer, the Ben Kingsley-Mary-Kate Olsen-starrer will debut on Blu-ray January 6 (day-and-date with the standard DVD).
Extras include audio commentary with director Jonathan Levine and star Josh Peck, three featurettes ("Keeping it Real: A Day in the Life of Writer/Director Jonathan Levine," "Time in a Bottle: Behind the Scenes of The Wackness," "The Luke Shapiro Show Episode 1") and deleted scenes.
Tech specs will see 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $38.95.
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Coen Brothers' 'Burn After Reading' Headed to Blu
Tue Oct 28, 2008 at 03:00 PM ET
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The Coen Brothers' latest is bound for Blu-ray, with Universal Studios announcing a late-December high-def release for 'Burn After Reading.'
The latest from the Oscar-winning directors features a star-studded cast and grossed over $30 million at the domestic box office.
Universal will debut 'Burn After Reading' on Blu-ray December 23, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Extras on this slim release include only three featurettes ("Finding the Burn," "DC Insiders Run Amuck," "Welcome Back George") and exclusive to the Blu-ray, a BD-Live-enabled My Scenes Sharing feature.
Tech specs will see a BD-25 single-layer disc with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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Criterion Announces 'El Norte' for Blu-ray
Wed Oct 29, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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The Criterion Collection has announced its latest Blu-ray title, setting a late-January date for 'El Norte.'
Directed by Gregory Nava, the critically-acclaimed immigrant drama will receive its Blu-ray premiere on January 20. (Criterion previously-released the film on standard DVD as a special edition.)
There are no tech or supplement specs as of yet, but a package comparable to the DVD version is expected. We'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.95.
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Weinstein Planning January Blu-ray Release for 'Superhero Movie'
Wed Oct 29, 2008 at 11:00 AM ET
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The Weinstein Co. has alerted retailers to an early-January Blu-ray bow for the spoof 'Superhero Movie.'
Starring Pamela Anderson and Craig Bierko, 'Superhero Movie' failed to make much of a dent at the box office during its brief theatrical run earlier this year. The Weinstein Co. will give the comedy a second shot when it releases the Blu-ray January 6, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
There's no tech or supplement specs as of yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.98.
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Fox Has 'Seven Year Itch' for Blu-ray
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Marking the first appearance of Marilyn Monroe on high-def, Fox has announced a mid-April Blu-ray release for 'The Seven Year Itch.'
In what fans hope will be only the first of many more Monroe comedies to arrive on Blu-ray, Fox has alerted retailers to an April 14 street date for the 1955 classic.
There are no tech or supplement specs at this early date, but we expect more details to surface over the coming weeks. Stay tuned.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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Victory Multimedia Goes Blu with 'Corporate Ladder'
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Next-gen newcomer Victory Multimedia has announced their debut Blu-ray release, setting a mid-January date for the indie 'Climbing Your Way Down the Corporate Ladder.'
Starring 'The Sopranos' Tony Sirico, the business comedy will kick off the indie distributor's next-gen support on January 13, when it debuts the Blu-ray day-and-date with the standard DVD.
As Victory has only just announced the title to retailers, they have yet to confirm final tech specs or supplement details. As always, we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.98.
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'Stomp' Coming to Blu-ray this January
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The acclaimed music and dance troupe Stomp is coming to Blu-ray this January with the debut of their first-ever next-gen live release.
Having entertained over 15 million people across 42 countries, the ensemble is considered one of the most successful stage shows of all time. 'Stomp Live' presents a brand-new stage performance, and will hit Blu-ray on January 27 (day-and-date with the standard DVD).
The first high-def release from indie Well Go USA, there are no announced tech specs or supplement details as of yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.98.
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Top Ten Political Titles Nominated for the Red White & Blu
A new installment in our series highlighting the top titles that remain nowhere to be found on Blu-ray. This week's topic: Political Titles!
On November 4th, voters from Virginia to California and Florida to Alaska will take a break from their hectic lives to determine which presidential hopeful will influence, affect, and inspire those hectic lives for the next four years. But if you're anything like me, you've set aside time this weekend to watch a few political classics to set the right mood for Tuesday's big decision. Unfortunately, to get my cinematic fix, I had to rely on more DVDs from my collection than Blu-ray discs. I decided to sit down and write about ten favorites -- dramas, comedies, documentaries, and TV series, among other things -- that I'd love to see hit the domestic BD market.
When you're finished looking over my list of personal favorites, be sure to stop by our Forums and discuss which films you'd want to see earn a Blu-ray debut. Most of all, get ready to have a hand in one of the most important elections of our time. Get out and vote!
ALL THE PRESIDENT'S MEN
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Based on the 1974 non-fiction book by writers Carl Bernstein and Bob Woodward, 'All the President's Men' follows an unlikely pair of Washington Post reporters as they work to uncover the truth behind the Watergate scandal. Yep, the very same Watergate that led to then-president Richard Nixon's resignation. Not only does the Academy Award nominated film include convincing recreations of events that forever changed the country, but both Dustin Hoffman and Robert Redford arguably deliver the performance of their respective careers. While the film may not be as inclusive as 'Nixon' or as extensive as other films on the subject (after all, it focuses squarely on Bernstein and Woodward), 'All the President's Men' tells a fascinating and powerful story that has become a true classic in the genre.
THE AMERICAN PRESIDENT
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My wife and I aren't big fans of romantic comedies, but we both adore 'The American President,' a disarmingly sweet and charming presidential-romcom starring Michael Douglas and Annette Benning. However, it's not just a believable budding romance between Douglas' president and Benning's environmental lobbyist that makes the film work so well. It's the quiet moments between the President and his Chief of Staff (played with subtle stoicism by Martin Sheen), the loving exchanges between the newly-widowed President and his teen daughter, and several glimpses of his resolve and decency, even in the face of aggressive attacks from a senator (a perfectly cast Richard Dreyfuss) trying to foil his bid for reelection. By the end, you may just find yourself wishing you lived in 'The American President's America.
BATTLESTAR GALACTICA
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There are two groups of people reading this right now: those who are familiar with 'Battlestar Galactica' and understand exactly why it's here, and those who have yet to experience its multi-layered stories and are confused as to why a so-called sci-fi space-romp is sitting pretty on my list. To cut to the chase, 'Battlestar Galactica' is an incredibly intellectual drama that deftly deals with presidential politics, the current division amongst voters in the US, the balance of religious ideals and political pursuits, and the policies of a nation living in fear of obliteration. Whether focusing on presidential power, political coups, revolutions, insurgencies, the struggles between the government and military in a time of war, or the differing morals of its people, 'Battlestar Galactica' is one of the most sharply-written political epics of all time.
THE CONTENDER
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Plenty of dramas have dealt with the assassination of a president or government official, but very few have dealt with the more grounded and common occurrence in Washington: character assassination. 'The Contender' is a riveting character study that challenges its audience to decide how much a person's past should affect their present pursuits. The did-she-or-didn't-she victim in this intense game of political cat-n-mouse comes in the form of a Vice Presidential hopeful (Joan Allen) who gets dragged through the proverbial mud as a pompous senator (Gary Oldman) tries to paint her as a promiscuous flag-burner. In an election season that has seen some of the most dubious personal attacks and accusations in recent memory, 'The Contender' is a shockingly relevant film that's far more powerful than you might expect.
DAVE
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Don't be fooled by 'Dave's aw-shucks approach to its subject matter: the film may be a light-hearted comedy, but it tackles more issues with greater tenacity than most of its political brethren. From ballooning government spending, to behind-the-curtain maneuvering, to the delicate cons pulled by some of Washington's finest, 'Dave' skewers political dishonesty, sleight of hand, and self preservation. It makes a clear case that our country needs leaders who will focus on the needs of its citizens, rather than itself. Kevin Kline is perfect in the title role as a man must to fill the president's shoes without letting the public in on the secret. Sure, the setup requires some hefty suspension of disbelief, but Kline really sells his character as an average guy encountering, questioning, and ultimately affecting his country for the better.
THE FOG OF WAR
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As the old adage goes, those who forget the past are doomed to repeat it. In 'Fog of War,' a critically acclaimed and award winning documentary from filmmaker Errol Morris, former Secretary of Defense Robert S. McNamara details the policies, decisions, consequences, and effects of a tumultuous period in US history. Morris keeps his camera focused on an unexpectedly candid McNamara who, at the end of his life, has little reason to gloss over the truth. McNamara discusses mistakes that were made, the arguments and debates that were making the rounds behind the scenes, the motivations of everyone involved, and the lessons he learned from his experience. 'Fog of War' is a fascinating documentary -- one I'll unabashedly declare as the best I've ever seen -- whose subject is refreshingly honest and self-critical.
JOHN ADAMS
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I have to admit, I've always been interested in the events of the 20th century... I even have a soft spot for Civil War history. Even so, I've never been particularly intrigued by the foundations of our country, its democracy, or the events that led to our independence. It's not that I don't find it interesting, I suppose I've just learned so much about it in school that I've come to take the facts of the matter for granted. However, 'John Adams,' a 2008 HBO miniseries starring Paul Giamatti, Laura Linney, and a slew of other heavyweights, grabbed me by the throat and refused to let go. It takes astounding care to render very human portraits of its historical figures and even manages to deliver a resonant commentary on our country's 21st century purpose, liberties, and freedom. Simply put, it's a masterwork everyone should see.
THIRTEEN DAYS
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Sometimes overlooked as a secondary JFK film that features Kevin Costner, 'Thirteen Days' doesn't concern itself with John F. Kennedy's assassination, but rather with his reaction to and handling of the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis. Played with inspiring resolve by Bruce Greenwood, the president we see in 'Thirteen Days' is very much alive and in control of his responsibilities, decisions, and, ultimately, the fate of an entire nation. Even though its audience knows the outcome of the story, the film still generates palpable tension and, for anyone but the stone-hearted, sweaty palms and a giant feeling of relief as the credits roll. As a result, the film reveals itself as an exploration of rationality under pressure, a careful look into the instincts and options afforded a man with his finger on the button. It's a stirring presidential portrait to say the least.
WAG THE DOG
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The sharpest and most clever political satire since Kubrick's 'Dr. Strangelove,' 'Wag the Dog' takes a hilarious yet sobering jab at the tenuous relationship between Washington, the media, and the public. Robert De Niro plays a professional political spinner who calls upon a failing Hollywood producer (Dustin Hoffman) to distract the American people from a presidential sex scandal by convincing them the country is threatened by an otherwise harmless country. The film's droll humor shoots for clever laughs and earns every one of them, offering a complex and riotous look at truth as it's perceived by a country's citizenry. The modern relevance should be obvious and 'Wag the Dog' is, in my opinion, has become a more pertinent film than ever. Wanna laugh? Wanna think? Strap in and prepare to do just that.
THE WEST WING
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It always amazes me that shows about lawyers or detectives litter broadcast and cable networks at every turn, but politicians rarely get any serious screen time. Aaron Sorkin's 'The West Wing' not only focuses on key players in Washington, it examines timely issues, political decisions, and the ramifications of misguided behavior, poor policy, and national divisiveness. Granted, it can get a bit preachy at times, but 'The West Wing' soars with compelling characters, tight scripts, satisfying storylines, and a number of truly cinematic episodes. Short of 'The Wire' and 'Battlestar Galactica' (ever think you'd see those two shows paired together?), 'The West Wing' digs into this country's beliefs, struggles, and motivations more than any other television series in the last ten years.
Other Flicks that Nearly Made My List: Air Force One, Brotherhood, Bullworth, The Candidate, Citizen Kane, Election, Max, Michael Collins, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, Primary Colors, Recount, Street Fight, Welcome to Sarajevo
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'Little Miss Sunshine' Trucking to Blu-ray this February
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Making an early announcement to retailers, Fox has set an early-February Blu-ray release date for the Oscar-nominated comedy 'Little Miss Sunshine.'
Grossing over $75 million at the domestic box office and earning a half-dozen Oscar noms (including Best Picture), 'Little Miss Sunshine' will make its Blu-ray debut on February 3. (Fox previously released a special edition DVD in 2007).
Supplements will see audio commentary by directors Jonathon Dayton and Valerie Faris, four featurettes ("On the Road with the Hoovers: The Making of Little Miss Sunshine," "We're Gonna Make It... A session with Mychael Danna and DeVotchka," "Who Are The Hoovers?", "No One Gets Left Behind: The Music of Little Miss Sunshine"), deleted scenes & alternate ending, poster gallery, and music video: "'Til the End of Time" performed by DeVotchka.
Tech specs will feature a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video, English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround, and optional French and Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround dubs and subtitles.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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'Ping Pong Playa' Coming to Blu-ray
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Image Entertainment has announced an early-January Blu-ray release for the family sports comedy 'Ping Pong Playa.'
Receiving only a limited theatrical release in the U.S., Image will release 'Ping Pong Playa' on Blu-ray January 6, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Tech specs will see 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround audio.
There are no announced extras, but as always we'll keep you updated of any spec updates.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $35.98.
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MGM Prepping 'Raging Bull' for Blu-ray Ring
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In an early retail alert, MGM says it is planning to bring the Martin Scorsese modern classic 'Raging Bull' to Blu-ray this February.
Featuring an Oscar-winning performance by Robert DeNiro, the 1979 boxing drama will make its much-anticipated Blu-ray debut on February 10. (MGM previously released a special edition DVD in 2003).
Bonus features include three audio commentaries with cast & crew, four featurettes ("Before the Fight," "Inside the Ring," "Outside the Ring," "After the Fight"), "The Bronx Bull" documentary and additional vignettes ("DeNiro vs. LaMotta," "LaMotta Defends Title").
Tech specs will feature a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video, English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround, and optional French and Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround dubs and subtitles.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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Fox Sets 'French Connection' Two-Punch for Early 2009
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Fox is bringing a double dose of Popeye Doyle to Blu-ray in early 2009, with first-ever next-gen releases of 'The French Connection' and 'The French Connection II.'
Due first is the 1971 Best Picture Oscar winner 'The French Connection' on January 13, to be followed five weeks later by its 1975 sequel 'The French Connection II' on February 27.
The studio has not yet announced tech or supplement specs for either release. 1080p video and DTS-MA audio are expected, as well as extras comparable to the previous DVD releases. Watch this space for more info as soon as it is confirmed.
Suggested retail price for each Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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'Passion of the Christ' to Get 'Definitive' Blu-ray this February
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In what is sure to be one of the most controversial releases ever to hit Blu-ray, Fox has announced a February street date 'The Passion of the Christ.'
Mel Gibson's violent depiction of the crucifixion of Christ, 'Passion' generated reams of controversy upon its original theatrical release and grossed over $600 million worldwide.
Fox will issue 'The Passion of the Christ: The Definitive Edition' on Blu-ray February 17, day-and-date with a new standard DVD re-issue.
Newly-produced extras boast four audio commentaries (with Gibson, technical crew, a theological track with noted religious scholars, and a scene-specific composer commentary), the "Passion Recut" featurette, a "Footnotes" feature, and all of the materials found on the previous DVD release.
Tech specs will feature a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video, English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround, and optional French and Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround dubs and subtitles.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.98.
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'Office Space' Headed to Blu-ray
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Fox is bringing the cult comedy 'Office Space' to Blu-ray this February with a host of extras and exclusive content.
Not a box office hit upon its initial theatrical release, the Mike Judge corporate satire has since amassed a rabid fanbase on home video. Fox has alerted retailers to a February 3 Blu-ray street date. (The studio previously issued a special edition DVD in 2006.)
Extras include the "Out of the Office: An Office Space Retrospective with Mike Judge" featurette, six deleted scenes and the theatrical trailer
Exclusive to the Blu-ray release is a "Jump to Conclusions 2.0" function and "The Apathy of Man" history fact track.
Tech specs will feature a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video, English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround, and optional French and Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround dubs and subtitles.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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Universal Unveils 'Mamma Mia!' Specs, Exclusives
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Universal has confirmed final specs for 'Mamma Mia! The Movie', which will come to Blu-ray this December with hours of exclusives and a first-ever custom commentary feature.
As previously reported, the runaway box office smash -- which is now the highest-grossing film in UK history and one of Universal's biggest-ever hits -- was given a December 16 street date on Blu-ray, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Now final specs are in, with Universal presenting the film on a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p/AVC MEPG-4 video and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround.
Extras shared between the Blu-ray and DVD include an audio commentary with director Phyllida Lloyd, multiple featurettes ("Anatomy of a Musical Number: 'Lay All Your Love on Me,'" "The Making of Mamma Mia!", "Becoming a Singer," "A Look Inside Mamma Mia!"), deleted scenes, outtakes and musical number ("The Name of the Game"), a musical jukebox with instant access and lyrics to all of the film's ABBA songs, a music video for "Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!" (sung by actress Amanda Seyfried), and a Bjorn Ulvaeus cameo vignette.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray are a pair of U-Control features (a picture-in-picture video commentary and "Behind the Hits" clips), and via BD-Live, My Scenes Sharing, My Chat and other downloadable content. And in a high-def first, BD-Live users can also access the "My Mamma Mia! Commentary" function, allowing fans to record and share their own audio commentaries online.
Also included on a second disc is a Digital Copy of the film (in standard-def only).
Finally, Universal has issued the final box art for 'Mamma Mia!':
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As previously announced, the studio has set the suggested retail price for the Blu-ray at $39.98.
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'Napoleon Dynamite' to Explode on Blu-ray this February
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Get ready to vote for Pedro in high-def, with Fox announcing an early-February Blu-ray release for the comedy cult classic 'Napoleon Dynamite.'
The sleeper hit of 2004 and the film that made Jon Heder a star, 'Napoleon Dynamite' is set to make its Blu-ray debut on February 3. (Fox previously-released a special edition DVD version in late 2004.)
Tech specs include 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and an English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track, plus French and Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround and subtitle options.
Supplement details have yet to be confirmed, but expect a package comparable to the previous DVD release. We'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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'Friday the 13th' to Slash it's Way to Blu-ray
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Paramount is preparing to bring a special edition of the 1980 slasher classic 'Friday the 13th' to Blu-ray this February.
The low-budget sleeper that would go on to spawn a seemingly-unending series of sequels, 'Friday the 13th' will receive its high-def premiere in a never-before-seen (in the U.S.) unrated version.
Timed to coincide with the upcoming theatrical release of the 'Friday the 13th' remake, Paramount has set a lucky day of February 3 for the Blu-ray (day-and-date with a new standard DVD re-issue).
Tech specs will see remastered the unrated "International" cut of the film in 1080p video and English Dolby Digital 1.0 Mono audio.
Confirmed extras include audio commentary with director Sean Cunningham, a quartet of featurettes ("Fresh Cuts: New Tales from Friday the 13th," "Man Behind the Legacy: Sean S. Cunningham," "Friday the 13th - Special Reunion," "Lost Tales from Camp Blood - Part 1") and the domestic theatrical trailer.
(Paramount is also planning to re-issue 'Friday the 13th Part 2' and 'Friday the 13th Part 3' on standard DVD concurrently with the original 'Friday the 13th,' but at press time has not announced corresponding Blu-ray versions. We'll keep you posted if any further news comes in.)
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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'Sideways' Headed to Blu-ray this February
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Fox has announced an early-February Blu-ray release for the Oscar-winning comedy 'Sideways.'
Starring Paul Giamatti, Thomas Hayden Church and Virginia Madsen, the Alexander Payne-directed dramedy of wine-tasting and romance will debut on Blu-ray February 3. (Fox previously issued a DVD version in early 2005.)
Tech specs will present the film in 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround.
There are no announced extras at press time, but watch this space for further details in the coming days.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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Sony Announces 'Lakeview Terrace' for Blu-ray
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The hit thriller 'Lakeview Terrace' is headed to Blu-ray, with Sony Pictures announcing a January special edition release with extensive bonus features.
Starring Samuel L. Jackson and Patrick Wilson, the crime drama grossed over $30 million during its theatrical run earlier this year. Sony will debut the Blu-ray January 13, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras include a filmmaker audio commentary, a trio of making-of featurettes and deleted scenes.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $38.95.
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Fox Brings 'Donnie Darko' to Blu-ray
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Fox has announced an early-February Blu-ray release for the cult classic 'Donnie Darko,' which will come to high-def with both the theatrical and unrated versions.
Starring Jake Gyllenhaal and directed by Richard Kelly, 'Donnie Darko' failed to generate big grosses during its original theatrical run, but has since go one to amass a devoted following on video.
Fox will give 'Donnie Darko' its high-def premiere on February 10 (the studio previously released a special edition DVD in 2005.)
There are no tech specs or supplement details as of yet, but Fox is billing the Blu-ray as a Collector's Edition, so we expect plenty of extras. We'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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'Bird with the Crystal Plumage' to Haunt Blu-ray this February
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Blue Underground has confirmed a late-February bow for the latest addition to its Blu-ray catalog, the Dario Argento classic 'The Bird with the Crystal Plumage.'
The trend-setting Italian giallo will make its anticipated Blu-ray debut on February 24.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with newly-remastered 1080p video and English audio tracks in DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 7.1 Surround and Dolby TrueHD 7.1 Surround. (An Italian track is also set for inclusion, but exact audio specs remain TBA.)
Extras include an audio commentary with journalists Alan Jones and Kim Newman, four interview featurettes ("Out Of The Shadows," "Painting With Darkness," "The Music Of Murder" "Eva's Talking") and theatrical trailers and TV spots.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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Fox Planning February Bow for 'Vanishing Point'
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Making an early announcement to retailers, Fox has set a late-February Blu-ray release date for the 1971 thriller 'Vanishing Point.'
Considered one of the classics of '70s paranoid cinema, the Barry Newman-starrer will make its high-def debut on February 24. (Fox previously issued a DVD version in 2004.)
At press time there are no tech or supplement specs available, but we expect final details to emerge in the coming weeks. We'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.99.
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Lionsgate Brings Animated 'Hulk' Double Header to Blu-ray
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Comic book fans, mark your calendars: Lionsgate will bring a double dose of Hulk to Blu-ray this January with a double feature of animated premiere movies.
Dubbed "Twice the Carnage!", Lionsgate's Blu-ray release of 'Hulk Vs.' will pair up the full-length animated Marvel features 'Hulk Vs. Wolverine' and 'Hulk Vs. Thor.'
The studio will issue the pair as a single Blu-ray release on January 27, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Early tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround.
There's no word on supplements, but watch this space for the latest information as soon as it is confirmed.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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Weinstein Sets January Date for 'Eden Lake'
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Announcing its latest video premiere release, the Weinstein Co. has set an early-January Blu-ray release for the chiller 'Eden Lake.'
Following only the slimmest of theatrical releases this past Halloween, the hardcore horror-thriller 'Eden Lake' will enjoy a wider audience when it hits Blu-ray on January 6 courtesy of Dimension Extreme (day-and-date with the standard DVD).
Tech specs will see 1080p video (2.35:1) and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Confirmed extras include audio commentary with writer-director James Watkins and making-of featurette.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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'Ghost Hunters' to Spook Blu-ray this January
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Image Entertainment is bringing the popular Sci-Fi Channel series 'Ghost Hunters' to Blu-ray in early January.
Featuring a team of paranormal investigators who travel across America in search of spectral happenings, 'The Absolute Best of Ghost Hunters' culls together two previous DVD releases, "The Best of Ghost Hunters Vol. 1" and "The Best of Ghost Hunters Vol. 2" into one high-def package. Image will debut the Blu-ray version on January 6.
Tech specs will see 1080 video (1.78:1) and Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo audio.
Extras thus far include the bonus featurette "Ghost Hunters Revelations." We'll keep you posted of any future supplemental sightings.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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'Babylon A.D.' Coming to Blu-ray
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Fox Home Entertainment is bringing the Vin Diesel action film 'Babylon A.D.' to Blu-ray this January with hours of bonus materials and exclusive content.
A box office underperformer that was mauled by critics, the sci-fi yarn will hit Blu-ray January 6, day-and-date with the DVD.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video (2.35:1) and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround audio.
Among the extras is a quartet of featurettes ("Babylon Babies," "Arctic Escape," "Fit For The Screen," "Flight of the Hummers"), the "Genesis of Aurora" short film and a still gallery.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray is a Bonus View picture-in-picture track "Scene Evolution" which features behind-the-scenes material on nearly two dozen sequences from the film.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.99.
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Eagle Rock Bringing Trio of Music Titles to Blu
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Indie Eagle Rock has announced a trio of new music titles, bringing live concert favorites from Tori Amos, Ray Charles and a host of top artists to Blu-ray for the first time.
Due for simultaneous release on December 9, Eagle Rock will premiere 'Tori Amos, Live At Montreux 1991/1992,' 'Ray Charles, Live At Montreux 1997' and the all-star jam 'The Strat Pack Live In Concert' (featuring performances by Queen, Roxy Music, the Eagles, Pink Floyd and the Rolling Stones') on Blu-ray. (Eagle Rock previously released all three titles on standard DVD.)
No tech or supplement specs have been confirmed as of yet, but based on Eagle Rock's previous Blu-ray releases, expect at least some form of high-res audio and bonus features comparable to the previous DVD versions.
Suggested list price has been set at $24.95 apiece.
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Universal Announces 'Serenity' for Blu-ray
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Attention, Browncoats: Universal has set a late-December Blu-ray bow for the sci-fi adventure 'Serenity.'
A big-screen continuation of the cult TV series 'Firefly,' the Joss Whedon-directed fan favorite will finally make its Blu-ray debut on December 30. (Universal previously released the film in special edition HD DVD and standard DVD versions).
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p video and English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras carried over from previous versions include two cast & crew audio commentaries, deleted scenes with optional commentary by Whedon, and a host of featurettes ("Future History: The Story of Earth That Was," "What's In a Firefly," "Re-Lighting the Firefly," "A Filmmaker's Journey," "We'll Have a Fruity Oaty Good Time," "Take a Walk on Serenity," "The Green Clan," "Session 416").
Exclusive to the Blu-ray is a host of bonus content, including U-Control features "Mr. Universe Compendium" and "Digital Tour of Serenity," a picture-in-picture visual commentary with Joss Whedon and cast (Bonus View), My Scenes Sharing and additional BD-Live features.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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'My Name Is Bruce' Headed to Blu
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Image Entertainment has announced plans to bring the cult action-comedy 'My Name is Bruce' to Blu-ray this February.
Written, directed, and starring Bruce Campbell, 'My Name is Bruce' features the cult icon as a man mistaken for his famous "Ash" character (from the 'Evil Dead' movies) who is forced to save the world -- or at least the state of Oregon -- from evil.
Image will debut the Blu-ray on February 10, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Tech specs will see 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround audio.
There are no extras announced as of yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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Image Bringing IMAX Double-Header to Blu-ray
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Image Entertainment has announced a pair of titles, 'Super Speedway' and 'Grand Canyon Adventure,' to anchor its February IMAX Blu-ray release slate.
Due for simultaneous release on February 10, Image will bring to Blu-ray the home theater demo-worthy large-format features 'Super Speedway' and ' Grand Canyon Adventure - River at Risk.'
Both titles will receive 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and audio in DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround.
There are no announced extras at this time, but we'll keep you posted as soon as final details are confirmed.
Suggested list price for each Blu-ray has been set at $24.95.
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'Ghost in the Shell 2' Coming to Blu-ray
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Making an early announcement to retailers, Bandai Visual has set an early-January Blu-ray date for 'Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence.'
A follow-up to the seminal anime 'Ghost in the Shell,' the sequel will receive its high-def premiere on January 13. (Bandai previously released a DVD version in 2005.)
Bandai has not yet released tech or supplement specs for the Blu-ray. Preliminary details do indicate a special edition, so we expect plenty of extras. We'll keep you posted.
Suggested list price for each Blu-ray has been set at $39.98.
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Momentum Announces 'Kill Switch' for Blu-ray
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Newcomer Momentum Pictures has announced their debut Blu-ray release, the Steven Seagal action-thriller 'Kill Switch.'
Written by Mr. Seagal himself, 'Kill Switch' will mark the beginning of the indie distributor's high-def support when it hits Blu-ray on February 23.
There are no tech specs or supplemental details available as of yet, but we'll keep you posted on all future Momentum announcements as they come to us.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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Godfather Blu-ray Wins Best of Show at HD-3
posted 11 Nov. 2008 @ homemediamagazine.com
LOS ANGELES — Despite joining the Blu-ray Disc camp just after the end of the format war this year, Paramount Home Entertainment scored huge wins at the second High-Def Disc Awards.
The studio’s new The Godfather: The Coppola Restoration Collection Blu-ray boxed set won for best of show and best catalog title. The Marvel Studios production Iron Man won for best theatrical Blu-ray title, and DreamWorks’ Transformers Blu-ray won for best audio quality. It’s the second straight audio win for Transformers; the title won last year with its HD DVD version.
The High-Def Disc Awards luncheon was part of HD-3, a one-day conference held Nov. 11 at the InterContinental Hotel in Los Angeles. HD-3 was produced by Home Media Magazine in cooperation with The Hollywood Reporter.
A panel of critics determined the winners from submissions of Blu-ray Disc titles released between Oct. 1, 2007, and Sept. 30, 2008.
Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment’s Ratatouille also took home two awards, for best picture quality and best animated title.
Because of Blu-ray’s high storage capacity and potential for extensive extras, three awards were devoted to bonus materials. Best overall extras went to Universal Studios Home Entertainment’s Heroes: Season 2 Blu-ray boxed set. Best single bonus feature went to the “Enter the Maelstrom” visual effects breakdown on Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End. A new category, best use of BD Live, was won by Sony Pictures Home Entertainment’s Men in Black.
To highlight the synergy of Blu-ray Disc players with home entertainment systems, judges bestowed a special award to 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment’s I, Robot, calling it an ideal disc to demonstrate the capabilities of an HDTV.
Another special award, for best consumer electronics company, was given to Panasonic.
2008 High-Def Award Winners:
Best of Show: The Godfather: The Coppola Restoration Collection, Paramount Home Entertainment
Best Theatrical Blu-ray: Iron Man, Paramount Home Entertainment
Best Catalog Blu-ray: The Godfather: The Coppola Restoration Collection, Paramount Home Entertainment
Best Animated Blu-ray: Ratatouille, Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Best Picture Quality: Ratatouille, Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Best Audio Quality: Transformers, DreamWorks and Paramount Home Entertainment
Best Bonus Feature: Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End, “Enter the Maelstrom,” Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Best Overall Extras: Heroes: Season 2, Universal Studios Home Entertainment
Best Use of BD Live: Men in Black, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Best Collection/Multidisc Set: Harry Potter: Years 1-5 Limited Edition Gift Set, Warner Home Video
Best Nontheatrical Blu-ray: Stargate: Continuum, MGM and 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment
Best Nonfiction Blu-ray: Step Into Liquid, Lionsgate
Judges’ Special Citation — Best Demonstration Disc: I, Robot, 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment
Consumer Electronics Company of the Year: Panasonic
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BBC Boxes Up Blu-ray Hits for 'Earth Collection'
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BBC is boxing up the Earth on Blu-ray, packaging together its top sellers 'Planet Earth' and 'Earth: The Biography' in a six-disc bundle due later this month.
In a late-breaking alert to retailers, BBC Video will release 'The BBC Earth Collection' on Blu-ray November 18. The six-disc set contains 'Planet Earth: The Complete Series' and 'Earth: The Biography.'
Tech specs are identical to the previously-release stand-alone versions of both titles. There are no new supplemental features or other bonus materials.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray bundle has been set at $129.95.
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'Dark Knight' Set to Smash Blu-ray Shipping Record
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The blockbuster 'The Dark Knight' can add another notch to its list of achievements: high-def record-breaker.
Not content to smash worldwide attendance records during its theatrical run this summer, the $500 million-plus grossing sequel is now poised to storm the next-gen record books by becoming the first Blu-ray title to ship more than a million units.
Though Warner has declined to confirm exact shipment totals, Video Business is reporting that the studio will ship in excess of 1M copies of 'The Dark Knight' in time for the Blu-ray's December 9 street date, which is believed to be a first for the format.
'The Dark Knight' was always expected to be one of the format's biggest-ever sellers since it was [2112]first announced[/post] for Blu-ray release back in October. Should the one million-shipped total hold true come December, the release will handedly top previous Blu-ray sales pacesetters 'Casino Royale' (which became the first next-gen title to sell over 100,000K units back in March 2007) and 'Transformers' (which is reported to have sold in excess of 500,000 copies on Blu).
Warner will release 'The Dark Knight' on Blu-ray December 9 in standard two-disc (MSRP $35.99) and collectible Limited Edition ($64.99) versions.
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Sony Sets 'Pink Panther' Remake for Blu-ray
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Sony Pictures is bringing the Steve Martin update of 'The Pink Panther' to Blu-ray in late January.
Starring Martin as Inspector Clouseau, the $150 million-grossing worldwide hit will arrive on Blu-ray January 20 (just in time to promote the upcoming theatrical sequel.)
The remake will also hit high-def one week before Fox/MGM releases the original 1963 'The Pink Panther' on Blu-ray January 27.
Tech specs for the 2006 version include 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
The sole announced extra is a Beyonce musical performance of a "A Woman Like Me."
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $28.95.
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'Clerks II' Gets February Blu-ray Date
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Announcing its latest high-def catch-up title, the Weinstein Co. has confirmed an early-February arrival for the Kevin Smith comedy 'Clerks II.'
A follow-up to Smith's trend-setting 1994 indie comedy 'Clerks,' the Blu-ray release of 'Clerks II' will trail the HD DVD by almost two years when it finally hits the format on February 10.
Tech specs will see 1080p video (1.85:1) and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
There are no supplement specs announced as of yet, but a package comparable to the previous HD DVD is expected. We'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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'13 Going on 30' Headed to Blu-ray
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The hit comedy '13 Going on 30' is coming to high-def, with Sony setting a late-January Blu-ray bow for the body-swap romantic comedy.
Starring Jennifer Garner and Mark Ruffalo, the $40 million-grossing hit will receive its Blu-ray debut on January 20. (Sony previously released a special edition DVD in 2004.)
Tech specs will see 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
There are no bonus features announced as of yet, but watch for full details in the days ahead.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $28.95.
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Katrina Doc 'Hurricane on the Bayou' Coming to Blu-ray
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Image Entertainment has announced an early-February Blu-ray date for the acclaimed Hurricane Katrina IMAX documentary 'Hurricane on the Bayou.'
Narrated by Meryl Streep, 'Hurricane on the Bayou' follows four musicians as they explore New Orleans in the wake of one of our nation's largest natural disasters.
Image will debut the powerful and critically-acclaimed IMAX film on February 10.
Tech specs will see 1080p video (1.78:1) and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
At press time, there are no announced bonus features.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $24.95.
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'King Kong' to Roar on Blu-ray this January
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Trailing the HD DVD release by over two years, Universal has announced a late-January bow for Peter Jackson's big-budget remake of 'King Kong.'
One of HD DVD's flagship titles when it was first released on the format in late 2006, 'King Kong will see a belated Blu-ray release on January 20 in a special edition chock full of upgraded specs and bonus features.
Boasting both the theatrical and extended cuts of the film available via seamless branching (the HD DVD only included the theatrical version), tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p video (2.35:1) and a English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track (also an upgrade over the HD DVD's Dolby Digital-Plus).
Extras carried over to the Blu-ray will see only a single audio commentary with Jackson and screenwriter/producer Philip Boyen (on the extended version only).
High-def exclusives include U-Control picture-in-picture on the extended cut, art galleries on both versions, and BD-Live-enabled My Scenes Sharing.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.98.
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Universal Bringing 'Friday Night Lights' to Blu-ray
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Universal has announced its latest "catch up" title for Blu-ray, the sports drama 'Friday Night Lights.'
Released on HD DVD in 2006, the Peter Berg-directed hit (which went on to inspire the low-rated but critically-acclaimed TV series) will touch down on Blu-ray on January 6.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p video (2.35:1) and an English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
Bonus features will mirror the HD DVD, with audio commentary by Berg And writer Buzz Bissinger, six featurettes ( "Peter Berg Discusses A Scene In The Movie," "Player Cam," "Tim McGraw: Off The Stage," "The Story of the 1988 Permian Panthers," "Gridiron Gangs," "Behind the Lights") and deleted scenes.
High-def exclusives include BD-Live-enabled My Scenes Sharing.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.98.
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'Pretty Woman' to Make a Date with Blu-ray
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Just in time for Valentine's Day, Walt Disney is bringing Julia Roberts' mega-watt smile to Blu-ray with an early-February release of 'Pretty Woman.'
The 1990 romantic comedy blockbuster that made Roberts a star, 'Pretty Woman' will receive its next-gen debut on February 10. (Disney previously-released a 15th anniversary edition DVD in 2005.)
Disney has not yet revealed tech specs or supplemental details, but a package comparable to the DVD appears likely. We'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.98.
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'Street Fighter' to Kick It on Blu-ray this February
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Universal Studios has announced a February Blu-ray release for the 1994 video game adaptation 'Street Fighter.'
Starring Jean-Claude Van Damme and featuring the last screen performance of the late Raul Julia, 'Street Fighter' will make its Blu-ray debut on February 10.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p video (2.35:1) and an English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track
Bonus features will include an audio commentary with director Steven de Souza, "The Making of Street Fighter" featurette, deleted scenes, outtakes, storyboard comparisons, and theatrical and game trailers.
The Blu-ray will also include BD-Live-enabled My Scenes Sharing.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.98.
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'Hellboy II' BD-Live Event Announced
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In a high-def first, Universal Studios will host a live BD-Live chat event with director Guillermo del Toro to promote the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'Hellboy II.'
On November 23rd at 6PM PST, owners of the 'Hellboy II: The Golden Army' Blu-ray will be able to place their discs in their players (Profile 2.0 required) and connect to Universal's BD-Live servers to join in the chat.
Beginning now and leading up to the event, users will also be able to submit up to three questions for the acclaimed director to answer. (To submit your questions, log in with the disc, click on the "My Accounts" option and then select "Director's Chat.")
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Paramount Confirms 'Friday the 13th' Blu-ray Specs
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Paramount has unveiled final specs for the Blu-ray release of 'Friday the 13th,' which will come to high-def with even more bonus features and Dolby TrueHD audio.
As previously reported, Paramount has set a February 3 blu-ray release for the slasher classic, timed to coincide with a new standard DVD re-issue (and to prime the pump for the upcoming theatrical remake).
Full specs are now in, with the film receiving a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p video and (thanks to newly-discovered audio elements) an English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround track. (Additional audio options include the original English Dolby 1.0 Mono, French and Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround dubs, and English, French and Spanish subtitles.)
Previously announced extras include audio Commentary by director Sean Cunningham, a suite of featurettes ( "Fresh Cuts: New Tales from Friday the 13th," "Man Behind the Legacy: Sean S. Cunningham," "Friday the 13th - Special Reunion," "Lost Tales from Camp Blood - Part 1") and the theatrical trailer. Newly announced are two additional featurettes, "The Friday the 13th Chronicles - Part 1" and "Secrets Galore Behind the Gore - Tom Savini on Part 1."
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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MGM Bumps 'Spinal Tap' Blu-ray
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Heavy metal fans will have to wait a little longer for a high-def 'This is Spinal Tap,' with MGM bumping the film's planned January Blu-ray release.
As previously reported, MGM had originally set a January 20 Blu-ray debut for the classic mockumentary, in a special edition including extensive bonus features and exclusive content.
We've now received word from the studio that the title has been postponed, with no new date announced.
There was no reason given for the delay, but MGM says an update will be forthcoming with a new date for the Blu-ray. As always, we'll keep you posted.
In light of MGM's announcement, we've moved 'This is Spinal Tap' to the "Release Dates Postponed" section of our Blu-ray Release Schedule. Stay tuned.
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'UFC: Best of 2008' Headed to Blu-ray
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First Look has announced plans to bring the Ultimate Fighting Championship's year-end bash 'UFC: The Best of 2008' to Blu-ray this March.
Originally airing on Spike TV, 'The Best of 2008' is a nearly three-hour extravaganza of the UFC's craziest bouts of the year, featuring bone-crunching highlights of now-famous matches between its biggest stars.
First Look has set a March 24 arrival for the Blu-ray, day-and-date with the DVD version.
There are no tech or supplement specs yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $19.98.
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Warner Home Video Announces 100 Days of Blu-ray Sweepstakes!
To promote WarnerBlu.com, a new web site that showcases Warner Bros. extensive catalog of movies available on Blu-ray Disc, Warner Home Video is launching the 100 Days of Blu-ray sweepstakes, featuring a grand prize Blu-ray home theater system and 100-disc Blu-ray library.
Designed by Warner Bros. Advanced Digital Services, the 100 Days of Blu-ray sweepstakes will run from November 13, 2008 through February 20, 2009 on WB.com. This innovative sweepstakes offers players the chance to win multiple bonus entries in addition to their daily entry in their quest for the grand prize. Bonus entries can be scored by participating in a trivia game related to Warner Bros.' featured Blu-ray title of the day. Also, Warner Bros. will award the featured title of the day to one lucky winner each day.
WarnerBlu.com is a one stop destination for consumers who want to learn more about Blu-ray, browse the expansive number of Warner titles available on Blu-ray Disc, see what titles are coming soon, look for special offers, and make purchases to build their home library.
Check it out HERE (http://www.warnerbros.com/#/page=home&asset=066406/Four_Christmases_-_In_Theaters_November_26&type=video/) ;D ;D ;D
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'Bourne' Trilogy Blu-ray Specs, Box Art Revealed
Fri Nov 21, 2008 at 09:00 AM ET
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It's one of the most highly-anticipated Blu-ray releases of the New Year, and we've got a sneak peek at the box art and final confirmed specs for 'The Bourne Trilogy.'
As announced earlier this week, Universal will bring the blockbuster 'Bourne' films -- 'The Bourne Identity,' 'The Bourne Supremacy' and 'The Bourne Ultimatum' -- to Blu-ray as a three-disc box set on January 27.
Final specs are now in, with the studio confirming that each film will receive a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p video and English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround audio.
The extensive supplements and exclusives include:
The Bourne Identity:
• Audio commentary by director Doug Liman
• Featurettes: "The Ludlum Identity," "The Ludlum Supremacy: Who is Jason Bourne?", "The Ludlum Ultimatum," "The Birth of the Bourne Identity," "The Bourne Mastermind," "Access Granted," "From Identity to Supremacy," "The Bourne Diagnosis," "Cloak and Dagger," "Inside a Fight Sequence"
• Alternate Opening and Ending
• Deleted and Extended Scenes
• Music Video: "Extreme Ways" by Moby
• Picture in Picture (U-Control)
• Bourne Reminders (U-Control)
• Bourne Card Battle Strategy Game (U-Control)
• Supremacy Dossier (U-Control)
• My Scenes Sharing (BD-Live)
• Strategy game: "Bourne Card Battle" (BD-Live)
The Bourne Supremacy
• Audio commentary with Paul Greengrass
• Deleted scenes
• Featurettes: "Matching Identities: Casting," "Keeping It Real," "Blowing Things Up," "On the Move with Jason Bourne," "Bourne to Be Wild: Fight Training," "Crash Cam," "The Go-Mobile Revs Up the Action," "Anatomy of a Scene: The Explosive Bridge Chase Scene," "Scoring with John Powell," "The Bourne Mastermind: Robert Ludlum," "The Bourne Diagnosis Part Two"
• Picture in Picture (U-Control)
• Bourne Reminders (U-Control)
• Bourne Card Battle Strategy Game (U-Control)
• Supremacy Dossier (U-Control)
• My Scenes Sharing (BD-Live)
• Strategy game: "Bourne Card Battle" (BD-Live)
The Bourne Ultimatum:
• Audio commentary with director Paul Greengrass
• Featurettes: "Be Bourne Spy Training," "Man on the Move: Jason Bourne," "Rooftop Pursuit," "Planning the Punches," "Driving School," "New York Chase"
• Deleted scenes
• Picture in Picture (U-Control)
• Bourne Reminders (U-Control)
• Bourne Card Battle Strategy Game (U-Control)
• Blackbriar Files (U-Control)
• My Scenes Sharing (BD-Live)
• Strategy game: "Bourne Card Battle" (BD-Live)
Finally, Universal has revealed the steely and slick new Blu-ray cover art for 'The Bourne Trilogy':
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Suggested list price for the Blu-ray is $119.98.
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Second wave of James Bond movies on Blu-Ray set for March 2009
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Following the release of six James Bond movies on Blu-Ray in October this year, the second wave is being prepared for March 2009.
The next six titles up for release on Blu-Ray on March 18th 2009 in the USA will be:
- Goldfinger
- Diamonds Are Forever
- The Spy Who Loved Me
- Licence To Kill
- GoldenEye
- The World Is Not Enough
It is expected that the DVD and Blu-Ray of the latest 007 outing, "Quantum of Solace", will hit stores around the same time. No street dates for Daniel Craig's second outing have been officially announced yet.
Source (http://www.mi6.co.uk/news/index.php?itemid=7102&t=mi6&s=news)
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Title: Quantum of Solace
Starring: Daniel Craig
Released: 23rd March 2009
Further Details:
Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment has announced the release of Quantum of Solace for the 23rd of March 2009 for an as-yet undisclosed price. Obviously details are still very sketchy, but we'll bring you more information just as soon as it's available.
Read More Here (http://www.mi6.co.uk/news/index.php?itemid=7117&t=mi6&s=news)
Source (http://www.dvdactive.com/news/releases/quantum-of-solace.html)
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Denon Announces Flagship Blu-ray Player
Denon has announced that they will release their new flagship Blu-ray Disc player, the DVD-A1UD, this January in Japan. Designed to match up with their flagship processor, the AVP-A1HD, this universal player can playback Blu-ray, DVD, SACD, DVD-A, and CD discs at the absolute highest quality using the latest in playback technology.
The player uses Denon's fourth generation DenonLink system, which has been combined with HDMI to deliver a clearer signal with less jitters. The specialty building chassis drastically reduces vibration while also shielding sensitive components from electric and magnetic interference. Two HDMI outputs allow for connection to more than one display.
Audio receives the highest priority, with dedicated circuits making use of a 32bit/192kHz processor. Besides have 8-channel audio outs, it also includes two channel fully-balanced XLR output. Video also gets a boost via a Realta video processor to upconvert DVD content to 1080p as well as pixel correction provided by a proprietary Denon system.
When it ships in January for roughly $5,800 :o :o :o , it will only be BonusView capable, though a future firmware release will activate the BD-Live capability. The player will then be released in Europe sometime in March, with no US date currently announced.
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The Rumor Mill!
http://www.thedigitalbits.com/rumormill.html#120308
Our sources have reported to us that Universal and DreamWorks are working on a Blu-ray version of Ridley Scott's Gladiator for release sometime in the first half of 2009. We've actually been hearing this from our sources here for a while, but Bits reader Christian O. e-mailed us this morning from Germany to report that copies of Universal's The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor there include a promotional flyer that reveals the title as "coming soon" to the format, so we felt this would be a good time to mention it.
We've also been hearing recently that the folks at Disney and Pixar are already hard at work on the eventual Blu-ray releases of Toy Story and Toy Story 2 (possibly due in late 2009, but more likely 2010), which are designed be part of the build-up to the theatrical release of Toy Story 3 in 2010.
And our studio sources have confirmed that Warner Home Video is getting ready to bow a Gremlins: 25th Anniversary Edition Special Edition Blu-ray in sometime in early 2009 as well. We're also told that a similar edition of The Goonies is not far behind. (The Goonies is already available in Japan - it streeted there in October).
For those of you who have recently made the leap to Blu-ray Disc, we thought we'd give you a little round-up/update/summary today of some of the great titles you can look forward to on the format in the next year or so. Many of these titles we've reported here at The Bits previously, while a select few of them we're revealing for the first time. All are known to us to be in the planning or production stages for release on Blu-ray, and much of this information has come to us directly from studio sources... though please keep in mind that none these titles are as yet set in stone. That said, titles to watch out for in the next 12 months or so include Escape from New York, The Silence of the Lambs, a Star Trek "Kirk and Spock" box set (including films 1-6), six more catalog Bond titles (see Monday's Rumor Mill post), the theatrical versions of The Lord of the Rings films, possibly some or all of the Alien films, Sin City, Chinatown, Deep Impact, The Ten Commandments, Sunset Boulevard, Apocalypse Now, Breakfast at Tiffany's, Saturday Night Fever, Flashdance, The Elephant Man, Battlestar Galactica (the new series), possibly Titanic, Gigi, An American in Paris, Lawrence of Arabia, Bridge on the River Kwai, Dr. Strangelove, Ghostbusters 1 & 2, Mutiny on the Bounty, The Matix: 10th Anniversary, a more elaborate version of 300, the original King Kong, Rush Hour, Forbidden Planet, Grand Prix, Excalibur, The Wizard of Oz, Gone with the Wind, Woodstock, North by Northwest, Ben-Hur, all the major theatrical releases for the next year and much, much more. The point is, if you love Blu-ray, there's a LOT of great titles in the works.
As always, keep in mind that these titles and dates ARE unofficial and are subject to change until they're actually officially announced by the studios in press releases and retail solicitations.
Stay tuned...
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Second wave of James Bond movies on Blu-Ray set for March 2009
(http://www.mi6.co.uk/sections/dvd/bluray/mini_dn.jpg)
Following the release of six James Bond movies on Blu-Ray in October this year, the second wave is being prepared for March 2009.
The next six titles up for release on Blu-Ray on March 18th 2009 in the USA will be:
- Goldfinger
- Diamonds Are Forever
- The Spy Who Loved Me
- Licence To Kill
- GoldenEye
- The World Is Not Enough
It is expected that the DVD and Blu-Ray of the latest 007 outing, "Quantum of Solace", will hit stores around the same time. No street dates for Daniel Craig's second outing have been officially announced yet.
Source (http://www.mi6.co.uk/news/index.php?itemid=7102&t=mi6&s=news)
Wow, my favorites Spy who loved me and goldfinger..Excellent news, I can't believe License to kill and World is not enough is on that list. ;D, kinda weak bonds, but I will still buy them ;D
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Denon Announces Flagship Blu-ray Player
When it ships in January for roughly $5,800 :o :o :o , it will only be BonusView capable, though a future firmware release will activate the BD-Live capability. The player will then be released in Europe sometime in March, with no US date currently announced.
5800 dollars for a friggin' bd player?!? :o :o :o :o
ginto nga!
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5800 dollars for a friggin' bd player?!? :o :o :o :o
ginto nga!
... and it's not even BD-Live compatible yet... ;D ;D
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The Rumor Mill!
http://www.thedigitalbits.com/rumormill.html#120308
Our sources have reported to us that Universal and DreamWorks are working on a Blu-ray version of Ridley Scott's Gladiator for release sometime in the first half of 2009. We've actually been hearing this from our sources here for a while, but Bits reader Christian O. e-mailed us this morning from Germany to report that copies of Universal's The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor there include a promotional flyer that reveals the title as "coming soon" to the format, so we felt this would be a good time to mention it.
We've also been hearing recently that the folks at Disney and Pixar are already hard at work on the eventual Blu-ray releases of Toy Story and Toy Story 2 (possibly due in late 2009, but more likely 2010), which are designed be part of the build-up to the theatrical release of Toy Story 3 in 2010.
Nice...More good news on the way... :)
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The finacial crises is biting the independent video producers.... :'( :'( :'(
BCI Shuts Down; Fate of Blu-ray Releases Unknown
Navarre Corporation announced yesterday that, as a result of the economic recession, they are shutting down BCI Eclipse Company, a wholly-owned subsidiarity and distributor of Blu-ray titles. Their last Blu-ray releases - 'Live From Abbey Road: Best of Season One' and 'Kitaro' - came in November, and no other Blu-ray releases were on their immediate schedule.
Navarre has said that they will absorb BCI's distribution business, but it is unclear if they will continue producing Blu-ray titles.
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Oh that's a big setback....I was looking forward to Kitaro... :-\
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First Hybrid Blu-ray Planned for Release
posted 19 December 2008 : SOURCE (http://www.electronista.com/articles/08/12/19/blu.ray.dvd.combo.disc/)
Japanese disc producer Infinity on Friday rolled out the world's first production video title to include both Blu-ray and DVD on a single layer. A box for the TV series Code Blue will include playable versions of both formats by using a permeable layer that takes advantage of the different wavelengths to store data at different levels; Blu-ray's namesake laser will recognize one layer, while a DVD player's red laser will see another. The technique lets owners of older movie players and PC drives buy a single title and automatically upgrade to playing HD when they pick up a Blu-ray player.
Discs with two Blu-ray layers and a single DVD layer are also possible, Infinity notes, as the disc standard supports shallower layers and can stack more than one per disc. The Code Blue example currently uses single-layer Blu-ray. The new approach doesn't currently allow users to record their own discs from computers but also won't unintentionally display DVD content on computers or consoles that support viewing the raw data.
The first discs, known as BD/DVD Hybrid discs, are expected to ship on Feburary 18th, when the 11-episode Blu-ray box set ships for roughly $408 in Japan :o :o :o. How quickly the format spreads is believed to hinge on the early adoption of the standard, though the technology could lead to games and other software that come in special Blu-ray and DVD versions on the same disc.
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MGM Details Worldwide Quantum of Solace Blu-ray Release
MGM Home Entertainment in conjunction with 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment have announced that they will bring the latest James Bond box office hit 'Quantum of Solace' to Blu-ray on March 24th, day-and-date with the DVD release. This single BD-50 release will feature a 1080p AVC video transfer accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Extras, which are presented in high definition, include:
* "Bond on Location" 24-minute special feature
* Start of Shooting
* On Location
* Olga Kurylenko and the Boat Chase
* Director Marc Forster
* The Music
* Crew Files
* “Another Way to Die” Music Video
* Theatrical Trailers
The worldwide release date for the title is as follows:
* AUSTRALIA – March 18
* UK – March 23
* NORTH AMERICA – March 24
* NETHERLANDS – March 25
* SWEDEN – March 25
* SPAIN – March 25
* ITALY – March 26
* GERMANY – March 27
* MEXICO – March 27
* SWITZERLAND – March/May
* FRANCE – May 13
* JAPAN – June 16
* BRAZIL – June 24 (retail)/ March 23 (rental)
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Next Bond Set March 24th: Moonraker First Title Revealed
MGM In an early announcement to retailers, MGM Home Entertainment in conjunction with Fox Home Entertainment has revealed that they will bring the James Bond film 'Moonraker' to Blu-ray on March 24th, the same day as the recently announced 'Quantum of Solace'. Video will be presented in 2.35:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
It is widely assumed that MGM would release the next six Bond films from the catalog on Blu-ray in conjunction with the Blu-ray release of 'Quantum of Solace', the latest James Bond film, but this is the first time we seen any announcement (even if its just a retailer alert) from the studio.
Look for an official announcement, along with the announcement of other titles, soon.
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X-Men Films Coming to Blu-ray
In an early announcement to retailers, 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has revealed that they will bring 'X-Men', 'X2: X-Men United', and 'X-Men: The Last Stand' to Blu-ray on April 21st. All three titles we be delivered as two-disc sets with 1080p AVC video and 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks.
No special features have been revealed at this time, but you can expect to see at very least all the extras from the previous special edition DVD releases.
Astute Blu-ray fans will remember that 'X-Men: The Last Stand' has not only been previously released, but was also the first Blu-ray title to be released by Fox back in 2006. It is unknown if this new two-disc set will be an extension of original release, or a completely new encode.
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X-Men Films Coming to Blu-ray
In an early announcement to retailers, 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has revealed that they will bring 'X-Men', 'X2: X-Men United', and 'X-Men: The Last Stand' to Blu-ray on April 21st. All three titles we be delivered as two-disc sets with 1080p AVC video and 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks.
No special features have been revealed at this time, but you can expect to see at very least all the extras from the previous special edition DVD releases.
Astute Blu-ray fans will remember that 'X-Men: The Last Stand' has not only been previously released, but was also the first Blu-ray title to be released by Fox back in 2006. It is unknown if this new two-disc set will be an extension of original release, or a completely new encode.
I'll definitely get this set. ;D
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The World is Not Enough Coming Too
In an early announcement to retailers, MGM Home Entertainment in conjunction with Fox Home Entertainment have revealed the second film in the second wave of classic James Bond films - 'The World is Not Enough' - will be released on March 24th. Joining 'Moonraker' and 'Quantum of Solace', which are also being released on the same day, there is expected to be four more titles announced shortly.
No technical specs or special features have been announced at this time.
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Let There Be 'Twilight,' But Just For Best Buy and Target
The teen vampires of 'Twilight' will be headed to high-def as Best Buy and Target exclusives, with Summit confirming details of the film's March Blu-ray release.
As previously reported, Summit Entertainment will release the blockbuster day-and-date on Blu-ray and DVD March 21. The title will initially be available on Blu-ray only at Best Buy and Target retail and online outlets, before eventually being made available to other retailers beginning May 5.
Just-confirmed specs include 1080p video and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras feature an audio commentary with director Catherine Hardwicke and stars Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart, the seven-part documentary "The Adventure Begins: The Journey from Page to Screen," a "Comic-Con Phenomenon" featurette, ten deleted/extended scenes, and three music videos by Linkin Park, Muse and Paramore.
As previously announced, suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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Blu-Ray Sales Developing Nicely
The Blu-ray Disc player industry is seeing increased sales over the past two and a half years. Since the technology was unveiled, 10.7 million players (including Playstation 3s) have been shipped to retail stores across the US. The 2008 sales have increased three-fold compared to 2007 estimates.
According to Adams Media Research, the household penetration for Blu-ray Disc players is 8% after slightly less than three years on the market. Compare this to the three-year estimates of about 3% for Color TV, 2% for CDs and 4% for DVDs, and Blu-rays are looking to be a rapidly growing industry.
Software sales for Blu-ray Disc players are increasing as well. This past October was the first month to hit 2 million disc sales, which increased to 8 million by December. At the close of 2008, disc sales stood at 24.09 million for the year, bringing the total since launch to over 30 million sales.
Future Blu-ray Disc players are using the “BD-Live” technology which allows users to interact with the player over a broadband network. And there will be a significant addition to the 53 disc titles which already allow a digital copy to be downloaded and viewed on mobile devices.
Sales of Blu-ray Disc players are projected to increase two to three fold in the next year, according to Adams Media Research.
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New Star Trek Blu-ray Rumors
Our good friend Bill Hunt over at The Digital Bits has some exciting news regarding the rumored upcoming Blu-ray releases of the original Star Trek films, as well as the television series. As previously rumored, Paramount Home Entertainment will release Star Trek I-VI as a "Kirk/Spock" box set in May around the theatrical release of the new Star Trek film.
The set will include the theatrical versions of Star Trek I, II, and IV - something that hasn't been available to fans in quite some time (or in the case of Star Trek VI, the first time). Additionally, the remaining four Next Generation films will be released as a box set at a later date.
Additionally, Paramount will release 'Star Trek: The Original Series - Season One' at the same time as the films. The release will contain both the original and remastered versions of the shows, and presumably feature all the extras found on the previously released HD DVD/DVD box set.
An officially announcement is expected shortly.
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'Mean Girls' Coming to Blu-ray
Paramount Home Entertainment has issued an early alert to retailers for a mid-April Blu-ray debut for the teen hit 'Mean Girls.'
Fans looking for some early-2000 nostalgia (when Lindsay Lohan actually had a career) can mark April 14 on their calendars, when Paramount will release the $80 million-grossing comedy smash.
There are no tech or supplement specs as of yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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Paramount to Spin 'Arctic Tale' on Blu-ray
Get ready for cute and cuddly polar bears in high-def when Paramount brings the acclaimed nature documentary 'Arctic Tale' to Blu-ray in April.
From the makers of the Oscar-winning 'March of the Penguins,' and narrated by Queen Latifah, 'Arctic Tale' tells two parallel stories of maternal survival -- one of a polar bear making a cross-continent trek with her cubs, and the other of a mother walrus caring for her brood.
Though 'Arctic Tale' didn't set the box office alight the way 'Penguins' did, Paramount will debut the family-friendly doc on Blu-ray in time for the Spring thaw, with a April 21 release date. (The studio previously-issued the title on both HD DVD and standard DVD in late 2007.)
Tech specs for the Blu-ray include 1080p video and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras boast the "Making of 'Arctic Tale'" featurette, the "Are We There Yet? World Adventure: Polar Bear Spotting" feature, and the film's original theatrical trailer.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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Bruce Lee's 'Circle of Iron' Coming to Blu-ray
Blue Underground has announced their latest cult classic for Blu-ray, bringing Bruce Lee's 'Circle of Iron' to the format in mid-May.
Based on an original story by the martial arts master and completed five years after his death, 'Circle of Iron' stars David Carradine, Christopher Lee and Roddy McDowall in a tale of mysticism and martial arts.
Blue Underground will release the cult favorite on Blu-ray May 19.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and 7.1 Surround tracks in both DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio and Dolby TrueHD.
Extras include audio commentary with director Richard Moore, three interview featurettes ("Playing the Silent Flute," "The Producer," "Karate Master"), an additional audio interview with co-screenwriter Stirling Silliphant, and theatrical trailers and TV spots.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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The Fast and the Furious Coming to Blu-ray
Universal Studios Universal Studios Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'The Fast and the Furious Trilogy' to Blu-ray on March 24th. The box set will feature all three films in the series - 'The Fast and the Furious', '2 Fast 2 Furious', and 'The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift' - in 1080p video accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Extras for the three titles include:
* The Fast and the Furious U Control
o Picture in Picture
o Tech Specs
o Playstation 3 Controller (static user guide)
* Dom's Charger
* Quarter Mile at a Time
* The Fast and the Furious Video Mash-Up
* BD-Live:
o Custom Download Center
o Custom My Scenes Sharing
o Custom The Fast and the Furious Video Mash-Up
* Deleted Scenes with Optional Director Commentary
* Hot Off the Street
* Paul Walker Public Service Announcement
* The Making of The Fast and the Furious
* More Than Furious
* Tricking Out a Hot Import Car
* Turbo Charged Prelude to 2 Fast 2 Furious
* Multiple Camera Angles - Stunt Sequence
* Movie Magic Interactive -Special Effects
* Featurette on Editing for MPAA
* Visual Effects Montage
* Storyboards-to-Final Feature Comparison
* Sneak Peek at 2 Fast 2 Furious
* Ja Rule "Furious" Music Video
* Cadillac Tah "PV City Anthem" Music Video
* Saliva "Click Click Boom" Music Video
* Fast and Furious Soundtrack Spot
* Theatrical Trailer
* Speed News Wrap
* Crash Montage
* Feature Commentary with Director Rob Cohen
* D-BOX
2 Fast 2 Furious
* U Control:
o Picture in Picture
o Tech Specs
o Animated Anecdotes
* Fast Females
* Hollywood Impact
* BD-Live:
o Generic Download Center
o Generic My Scenes Sharing
* Prelude to 2 Fast 2 Furious
* Deleted Scenes
* Outtakes
* Inside 2 Fast 2 Furious
* Actor Driving School
* Tricking Out a Hot Import Car
* Supercharge Stunts
* Making Music with Ludacris
* Actor Spotlights
* Car Spotlights
* Furious Afterburners
* Feature Commentary with Director John Singleton
* D-BOX
The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift
* U Control:
o Picture in Picture
o Storyboards
o Tech Specs
o Playstation 3 Contoller (Static User Guide)
* Making of the Fast Franchise
* Drift: A Sideway Craze
* Custom Made Drifter
o BD-Live: Generic Download Center
o My Scenes Sharing
* Deleted Scenes with Optional Commentary with Director Justin Lin
* Drifting School
* Cast Cam
* The Big Breakdown: Han's Last Ride
* Tricked Out to Drift
* Welcome to Drifting
* The Real Drift King
* The Japanese Way
* Don Omar "Conteo" Music Video
* Far East Movement "Round Round" Music Video
* Fast 3 Soundtrack Spot
* Feature Commentary with Director Justin Lin
* D-BOX
And if that isn't enough, Universal is also including movie cash with the set so you can check out the upcoming 'Fast & Furious', which is currently scheduled for theatrical release on April 3rd.
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No Country for Old Men Sees Re-Release
Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment has announced that they will re-release the Oscar-award winning film 'No Country for Old Men' for Blu-ray on April 7th as a two-disc collector's edition, day-and-date with the DVD re-release. This release will presumably feature the same 2.35:1 1080p AVC video encode, but with a new 24-bit 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack (the original release included a 24-bit PCM soundtrack).
New extras for this release include:
* ABC "Popcorn" Video
* Channel 4 News -- Joel And Ethan Coen Appearance
* Lunch With David Poland -- IKLIPZ -- Javier Bardem And Josh Brolin Interview
* WNBC Reel Talk With Lyons & Bailes -- Josh Brolin
* LA WGAW Q & A Panel
* Six Additional Audio Interviews
* Digital Copy
* Josh Brolin's Unauthorized Behind-The-Scenes
* Q & A With Joel And Ethan Coen, Roger Deakins And The Sound And Production Design Crews
* Charlie Rose Featuring Joel And Ethan Coen, Josh Brolin And Javier Bardem
* EW.com "Just A Minute...With Javier Bardem"
* VARIETY Screening Series Q & A
* Instore Appearance With Javier Bardem And Josh Brolin
Extras from the original release will also be included:
* The Making of No Country For Old Men
* Working With The Coens
* The Diary Of A Country Sheriff
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'Sin City' Confirmed for April Blu-ray Release
After months of delays, Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment has at last announced a late-April Blu-ray release for 'Sin City.'
One of the most hotly-anticipated Blu-ray titles in Disney's library, 'Sin City' has seen numerous potential next-gen release dates over the past two years, only to routinely disappear from the studio's release slate.
Now, Dimension, via Disney, has confirmed to the trades that the smash Frank Miller-Robert Rodriguez-Quentin Tarantino collaboration will finally arrive on Blu-ray as a two-disc set April 21.
Making full use of Blu-ray's capabilities, Dimension will release both the theatrical and "recut" versions of the film, each receiving their own BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround audio.
Full extras have not been detailed, but among the bonus features confirmed are two audio commentaries on the theatrical cut, an interactive "Kill 'Em All" comic book, four featurettes, filmmaker interviews, and all of the additional extras from the previous DVD release.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray will be a "Cine-Explore" mode (Bonus View) on the theatrical version.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $35.98.
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Hellraiser Blu-ray Gets April Date
In an early announcement to retailers, Anchor Bay Home Entertainment has revealed that they will bring 'Hellraiser' to Blu-ray on April 21st. According to the listing, the horror classic will be presented in its rated form, so those looking for the unrated version will have to hold onto their DVD. No technical specs or special features have been announced at this time.
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Indiana Jones Trilogy Blu Ray!
Cool Toy Review have shots of a Lucasfilm powerpoint presentation. It shows that by the end of the year there will be another Lego Indiana Jones game and that the original trilogy films will be coming to Blu Ray but it appears the story was quickly pulled..
(http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i152/ob120485/MEHOBBYDVD/indianajonesbluraybox2.jpg)
SOURCE (http://www.theprivateuniverse.co.uk/cgi-bin/showarticle.pl?section=news&articleid=3910)
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Indiana Jones Trilogy Blu Ray!
Cool Toy Review have shots of a Lucasfilm powerpoint presentation. It shows that by the end of the year there will be another Lego Indiana Jones game and that the original trilogy films will be coming to Blu Ray but it appears the story was quickly pulled..
lets hope they push through with this...this will be a definite buy.. (maybe star wars by next year?) ???
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Five Promising Blu-ray Players from CES 2009
With CES wrapped up and 2009 stretching out ahead of us, we wanted to take a look at five of the most interesting Blu-ray players coming out in the coming year.
ezGear bluCobra EZ3000 – It seems like everyone’s getting into the Blu-ray game this year, including a little known company shooting to become a household name. ezGear is primarily a seller of add on products, such as the UFO wall plug, iPod skins, and Wii accessories, and the bluCobra marks their first venture into the world of home theater.
With the bluCobra , ezGear is trying to fill a very interesting niche, that of a budget high end player. The EZ3000 supports DVD, SACD, and Blu-ray with full 1080p/24Hz output, BD profile 1.1, and has outputs that should satisfy no matter how high or low tech the home theater. The player also supports multiple audio formats including Digital Dolby, Dolby True HD, and DTS-HD Master Audio.
ezGear has stated a price of “$399 or less”, but we will see exactly what that means when the player is released in March. With a less than impressive price tag, the bluCobra EZ3000 looks to be an economic alternative to higher end players.
It will come down to the consumer of course to determine the success or failure of the new entry to the already crowded Blu-ray market, but this just might be a niche that needs to be filled.
Samsung BD-P4600 – Samsung is a name synonymous with cutting edge technology. A constant innovator and always ready to show off their latest and greatest, Samsung changed the pace a bit at this year’s CES by unveiling, not the most technologically advanced player, nor the most full featured, but without question the best looking Blu-ray player at the show.
The BD-P4600 is absolutely beautiful. Jet black with a hint of dark red and an amazingly sleek design, were it not for the Blu-ray Disk logo in the center, Samsung’s new player could easily be mistaken as a piece of home décor. The touch sensitive controls on top of the player even fade to black when not in use. The BD-P4600 isn’t just looks though, this 1.5” thick wall mountable player abides by the old rule “it’s what’s on the inside that counts.”
Supporting BD Live (Profile 2.0) and Bonus View (Profile 1.1) straight out of the box and boasting a gigabyte of internal storage, this is definitely a capable player. Full HD 1080p playback is of course supported as is total HD soundtrack support. Last but not least, the BD-P4600 comes packaged with a Wi-Fi dongle allowing wireless streaming of both the ever popular streaming movies of Netflix and music of Pandora.
Vizio VBR100 – Economy and quality so rarely come together as well as they consistently do with Vizio products. Certainly not the top of the line, Vizio is clearly happy to offer an affordable alternative at a quality above what consumers have come to expect out of budget televisions.
Taking that philosophy into the realm of Blu-ray, Vizio’s foray into Blu-ray looks to be headed right for the mainstream. Fairly plain feature wise, the VBR100 is profile 2.0 compatible and features onboard Dolby TrueHD and DTS Master Audio decoding. Perhaps the most interesting feature is the 7.1 analog outputs, ensuring that those without the newest receivers will have guaranteed compatibility.
This is all pretty standard, so what’s got us so excited about the Vizio VBR100? The price. Launching in April at an MSRP of only $199, this is a price point clearly set for those new to Blu-ray. Cheaper prices mean that more people will be bringing Blu-ray into their homes, edging that adoption rate even higher and ensuring more quality Blu-ray content for years to come.
LG BD390 – LG, never one to be overlooked, has several Blu-ray players coming to market in 2009. Surely we can expect the same quality from them as with all LG products, but quality alone doesn’t set a product apart. Profile 2.0 compatible, a gig of built in memory, Dolby TrueHD, Digital Plus and DTS-HD Master Audio processing, you get the picture. There are only so many ways to say the same thing so let’s cut to the chase.
The BD390, along with the full feature set to be expected in a Blu-ray player, features built in Wi-fi connectivity. No wires, no dongles, and good to go right out of the box. Coming out in June, the sub $400 BD390 should help to set the standard of what’s expected from a Blu-ray player.
Panasonic DMP-B15 – At first, many people see it as having a limited interest, others see it as pointless, but Panasonic is bringing out the first portable Blu-ray player. Clearly, the 8.9” screen isn’t big enough that the 1080p resolution will even matter, and it’s a WSVGA display, meaning the screen can’t even handle 720p. The battery life won’t be as good as portable DVD players, and clearly it’s not going to be cheap.
That’s the obvious, now here’s the interesting bit. The DMP-B15 has, according to Panasonic “all the technology found in its stand alone brethren, the DMP-BD60 and 80.” This includes Bonus View, BD Live, and Viera Cast functionality, allowing access to Amazon on Demand, YouTube, and other web based entertainment sources.
Making the DMP-B15 a bit more practical are HDMI and HD Audio outputs, allowing the player to be hooked up to not only televisions but home theater systems as well. Imagine starting Return of the King on a plane or a bus on the DMP-B15 only to come home and finish it in full surround sound.
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Blu-ray Increases Market Penetration
In the most recent issue of Home Media Magazine, new Nielsen First Alert data is now reporting that Blu-ray sales represented 17% of the home video market for the week ending January 25th, a new record for the high definition format. The previous record of 16% was reached only a few weeks ago, and makes for some very impressive results for the month of January.
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More Catalog Titles on the Horizon
Blu-ray Movies Our good friend Bill Hunt of The Digital Bits has the inside scoop on a few upcoming catalog titles that are currently in the works for Blu-ray release. As always, these titles are not confirmed, but if sources are correct, we should be seeing these titles either later this Spring or early Summer.
* The Princess Bride
* Big
* There's Something About Mary
* Grease
* Saturday Night Fever
* Ferris Bueller's Day Off
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More Catalog Titles on the Horizon
Blu-ray Movies Our good friend Bill Hunt of The Digital Bits has the inside scoop on a few upcoming catalog titles that are currently in the works for Blu-ray release. As always, these titles are not confirmed, but if sources are correct, we should be seeing these titles either later this Spring or early Summer.
* The Princess Bride
* Big
* There's Something About Mary
* Grease
* Saturday Night Fever
* Ferris Bueller's Day Off
Wow..Ferris Bueller's Day Off - must have for me. :)
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Big; Something About Mary Get Confirmed
In an early announcement to retailers, 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has confirmed that they will bring 'Big: Extended Edition' and 'There's Something About Mary' to Blu-ray on May 5th. Video for both of these titles will be presented in 1080p AVC accompanied by 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks.
Special features have not been announced at this time.
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Da Vinci Code Scheduled for April Blu-ray Release
On the official website for the upcoming film 'Angels & Demons', Sony has revealed that they will bring 'The Da Vinci Code: Extended Cut' to Blu-ray on April 28th to coincide with the theatrical release. No technical specs have been announced at this time, though you can expect to see 1080p AVC video accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack. No special features have been announced at this time.
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DVD International Looks to Increase Blu-ray Line-up
DVD International, distributors of such Blu-ray titles as 'Digital Video Essentials' and 'Exotic Saltwater Aquarium', will once again begin releasing content on Blu-ray after taking a short hiatus last year. The company, who is always at the forefront of new technology, is actively looking for content to be released on the high definition format.
David Goodman, Founder, DVD International, commented, "Coming out of CES 2009 we feel the industry is at a turning point and we are beginning production of new programs once again. We're excited to be moving forward with our award winning HDScape programming partners on new projects and seeking new artists who can help us expand the line."
Those interested can contact Jeffrey Goodman at Jeffrey [at] dvdinternational [dot] com.
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Hellraiser Puzzle Box Coming As Well
Anchor Bay Entertainment In an early announcement to retailers, Anchor Bay Home Entertainment has revealed that they will bring the 'Hellraiser Puzzle Box' to Blu-ray on April 21st, day-and-date with the Blu-ray release of 'Hellraiser'. The three-disc box will feature the Blu-ray release of 'Hellraiser', along with the 20th Anniversary Edition DVDs of 'Hellraiser' and 'Hellbound: Hellraiser II'.
Technical specs and special features have not been announced at this time.
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Universal Soldier Sequel and Thirteenth Floor Announced
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'Universal Soldier: The Return' and 'The Thirteenth Floor' to Blu-ray on April 14th. Both titles will be presented in 1080p AVC video accompanied by 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtracks. As will all recent Sony titles, both will be BD-Live enhanced.
Extras for 'Universal Soldier: The Return' include:
* Making of Featurette
* Michael Jai White: "A Universal Soldier's Workout" Featurette
* Jean-Claude Van Damme: Looking Back-Moving Forward
For 'The Thirteenth Floor', the only announced extras include an audio commentary track and a music video by The Cardigans.
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Wow..Ferris Bueller's Day Off - must have for me. :)
I agree..this is a definite buy..lets just hope that 'Bill Hunt' was right, and that they will indeed release it..
A sign of hope since BIG and SOMETHING ABOUT MARY were confirmed..so lets keep our fingers crossed..hehehehe
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Let There Be 'Twilight,' But Just For Best Buy and Target
The teen vampires of 'Twilight' will be headed to high-def as Best Buy and Target exclusives, with Summit confirming details of the film's March Blu-ray release.
As previously reported, Summit Entertainment will release the blockbuster day-and-date on Blu-ray and DVD March 21. The title will initially be available on Blu-ray only at Best Buy and Target retail and online outlets, before eventually being made available to other retailers beginning May 5.
Just-confirmed specs include 1080p video and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras feature an audio commentary with director Catherine Hardwicke and stars Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart, the seven-part documentary "The Adventure Begins: The Journey from Page to Screen," a "Comic-Con Phenomenon" featurette, ten deleted/extended scenes, and three music videos by Linkin Park, Muse and Paramore.
As previously announced, suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
Twilight Blu-ray Releases Clarified
Twilight was something of a sleeper hit at the cinema, taking a massive $70 million on its opening weekend and recording a total of $340 million worldwide after 10 weeks on release, not bad for an estimated $37 million budget! It's very likely then, that Twilight will be equally as profitable when it hits Blu-ray - however the way it's doing so is rather unusual.
Here is the confirmation that Twilight will be released in the USA on Blu-ray on the 21st March as an exclusive to high street and online Best Buy and Target stores. All other companies will have to wait until the 5th May before getting their copies on the shelves. According to Amazon, the UK edition of Twilight will be out on Blu-ray on the 6th April.
Not everyone has lost out to Best Buy and Target though, as Amazon have secured a sure-to-be-popular limited collector's edition which will have fans drooling in anticipation! Stored within a numbered jewelry box you get the Blu-ray movie, the soundtrack on CD, an exclusive watch, limited edition charm bracelet, 8 photo cards and a certificate of authenticity. The price for this bounty? $80!
We have the feeling there are enough Twilight fans out there who will grab the exclusive on day of release and then the Ultimate Collector's Edition in May!
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Blu-ray Players to Reach $150 This Year
According to Chinese newspaper Economic Daily News, white-box vendors - the term used for little-known consumer electronic manufacturers - will offer Blu-ray Disc players at the $150 price point this year. Additionally, Lite-On is planning to offer a half-height Blu-ray Disc drive for laptop applications for roughly the same price.
Both moves are in response to increased demand for low-cost, Blu-ray products as the high definition format saturates the market.
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'Seven Pounds' to Get March Blu-ray Release
Sony Pictures has announced a mid-March Blu-ray release for the Will Smith sci-fi thriller 'Seven Pounds.'
Though failing to reach the same box office heights as most of Smith's previous films, and suffering mediocre reviews, 'Seven Pounds' nevertheless managed to gross over $100 million worldwide.
Sony will release the Blu-ray on March 17, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround video.
Extras enjoy an audio commentary with the filmmakers, four featurettes, and deleted scenes.
Exclusive content includes a Digital Copy of the film (in standard-def) compatible with PCs, PSP and iTunes, and BD-Live connectivity.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $38.95.
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'Not Easily Broken' Coming to Blu-ray
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has alerted retailers that they plan to bring the drama 'Not Easily Broken' to Blu-ray in early-April.
Starring Morris Chestnut and Taraji Henson in a story that chronicles the dissolution of a marriage following a tragic car accident, 'Not Easily Broken' will arrive on Blu-ray April 7 (day-and-date with the standard DVD).
Sony has yet to reveal tech or supplement specs for the title, but we expect a full media release in the days ahead. Watch this space.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $38.95.
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Sony to Reveal 'Thirteenth Floor' on Blu-ray
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced a mid-April Blu-ray arrival for the sci-fi thriller 'The Thirteenth Floor.'
Starring Craig Bierko and Gretchen Mol in a tale that twists and turns into alternate realities, Sony will release the box office disappointment on Blu-ray April 14.
Tech specs will see 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video (2.35:1) and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras include an audio commentary with director Josef Rusnak and a music video by the Cardigans.
Like all Sony titles, the disc will also come with BD-Live connectivity.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $28.95.
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'Princess Bride' to Get March Blu-ray Engagement
After numerous delays, 'The Princess Bride' is finally ready to make its Blu-ray debut, with MGM confirming a March release for the modern classic.
Suffering numerous shuffled street dates and setbacks over the past couple of years, Rob Reiner's romantic fable has finally been given a greenlight for a March 17 Blu-ray release via Fox/MGM, coming as a fully-loaded special edition.
Tech specs feature a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
Extras enjoy two audio commentaries (one with Reiner, the second with screenwriter William Goldman), four production featurettes ("As You Wish: The Story of The Princess Bride," "Miraculous Makeup," "The Dread Pirate Roberts: Greatest Pirate of the Seven Seas," "Love is Like a Storybook"), a Cary Elwes Video Diary, three additional featurettes ("The Princess Bride The Untold Tales," "The Art of Fencing," "Fairytales and Folklore"), the original theatrical trailer, and hidden easter eggs.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.99
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'Princess Bride' to Get March Blu-ray Engagement
Bill Hunt was right with 3 of the 6 movies he said would be coming out...hoping Grease and Ferris also comes out..
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Amazon to Release Exclusive Super Bowl Blu-ray in March
Super Bowl XLIII champions the Pittsburgh Steelers will shine again in high-def, with Amazon and Warner announcing an exclusive Blu-ray release of the team's victory in early-March.
Dubbed 'NFL Super Bowl XLIII: Pittsburgh Steelers Champions,' Amazon has recently begun to take pre-orders for the compilation highlight disc, which will see a Blu-ray release on March 3 via Warner Home Video.
There are no tech or supplement details as of yet for the release -- or even any details on the exact program content of the Blu-ray -- but we expect more data in the days ahead. Watch this space.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $35.98.
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The Dark Knight Blu-ray Nears 3 Million Units Sold
According to Warner Home Video, the Blu-ray release of 'The Dark Knight' has sold an astounding 2.8 Million copies, with 2 Million being sold in the US alone. As many will recall, the most recent Batman film sold a record-breaking 1.7 Million copies in its first week of sale. Since then, sales have been steady, and worldwide sales are quickly approaching the 3 Million mark.
Not surprisingly, the popular comic book-inspired film has also driven Blu-ray Disc player sales. According to research done by Warner, of those who purchased a Sony PlayStation 3 between October and December of last year, one third cited the Blu-ray release of 'The Dark Knight' as affecting their decision.
While no Batman film will be released this year from the studio, Warner is hoping that Blu-ray releases of 'Watchmen' and 'Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince' will see similar success.
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Watchmen Complete Motion Comic Detailed
Warner Home Video has announced the technical specs and special features for the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'Watchmen: The Complete Motion Comic', which is due to hit store shelves on March 3rd, day-and-date with the DVD release. Video will be presented in 1.85:1 1080p VC-1 accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* Special sneak peek at DC Universe's animated Wonder Woman DVD
* Watchmen Production Diaries #4: Dave Gibbons (HD)
* BD-Live additional features
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X-Men Blu-ray Trilogy Gets Detailed
posted February 5, 2009 06:16 PM by Josh Dreuth
20th Century Fox 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has announced the technical specs and special features for the upcoming Blu-ray releases of 'X-Men', 'X2: X-Men United', and 'X3: The Last Stand', which are due to hit store shelves on April 21st, both individually and as a 'X-Men Trilogy' box set. Video for these releases will be presented in 1080p AVC accompanied by 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks.
Each film will come as a three-disc set, featuring the film and extras spread across the first two Blu-ray disc, and a third DVD containing a digital copy of the film for portable video devices.
Extras include:
X-Men
o Disc One Commentary by Bryan Singer and Brian Peck
o Behind-the-Scenes Footage
+ Poland Prison Camp
+ Senate Chamber
+ Cage Fight
+ Battle in the Snow
+ Xavier's Office
+ Logan, Jean & Scott/ Classroom (Extended Scene) with Optional Commentary
+ Mystique/Senator Kelly
+ Magneto's Lair
+ Bedroom
+ Senator Kelly Dangles
+ Cerebro
+ Train Attack
+ Magneto vs. Cops
+ Map of New York
+ X-Jet
+ Storm Vs. Toad / Wolverine Battles Mystique
+ Statue of Liberty
+ Sabretooth vs. Wolverine
+ Plastic Prison
o Deleted/Extended Scenes with Optional Commentary by Bryan Singer and Brian Peck
+ Storm Teaching Class
+ Logan Notices Jean and Scott/Rogue, Scott and Storm in Classroom
+ Extended Bedroom Scene with Logan, Jean and Scott
+ Bobby Walks Rogue to Dorm/Xavier and Jean in Cerebro
+ Xavier and Jean in Office
+ Ready Room
o Easter Egg: Blooper
o Fox Special: “The Mutant Watch”
o Bryan Singer Interview
+ Why He Made X-Men
+ Bringing X-Men From Comic Book to the Big Screen
+ Directing Actors
+ Learning From Actors
+ The Challenges of Making a Studio Film
o Animatics
+ “Liberty Head”
+ “Train Station”
o Art Gallery
+ Character Design
+ Production Design
o Three TV Spots
o Music Promo
o Enhanced for D-Box Motion Code Systems
o BD-Live: Wolverine Exclusive
o HD Marvel Universe Trailers
Disc Two
o Disc Intro by Bryan Singer
o The Uncanny Suspects
+ Hugh Jackman's First Reading
+ Hugh Jackman's Screen Test
+ Character Still Gallery
o X-Factor: The Look of the X-Men
+ Cyclops Costume Test and Visor
+ Storm Costume Test
+ Toad Makeup Test
o Image Gallery
+ Hardware
+ Locations
+ Magneto
+ Xavier's School
o Production Documentary Scrapbook
+ Multi-Angle Train Splitting
+ Multi-Angle Fight Rehearsal
+ The Prime Minister of Canada
o The Special Effects of the X-Men
+ Senator Kelly Effects Breakdown
+ Liberty Head (animatic/film)
+ Toad vs. Jean Grey (animatic/film)
+ Wolverine vs. Mystique (animatic/film)
+ Wolverine vs. Sabretooth (animatic/film)
o Reflection of the X-Men
+ Ellis Island Premiere
+ Premieres Around the World
o Marketing the X-Men
+ Three trailers in HD
o TV Spots
+ “Those We Fear”
+ “Those Among Us”
+ “Changing”
+ “Powerful”
+ “Human Evolution”
+ “Event”
+ “Skills Nick”
+ “Event Review”
+ “Future Rock”
o Internet Interstitials
+ “Generic”
+ “Director”
+ “Professor X”
+ “Magneto”
+ “Wolverine”
+ “Storm”
+ “Rogue”
+ “Cyclops”
+ “Jean Grey”
+ “Sabretooth”
+ “Mystique”
+ “Toad”
Disc Three
o Digital copy
X2: X-Men United
o Disc One Commentary by Bryan Singer and Tom Sigel
o Commentary by Lauren Shuler Donner, Ralph Winter, Michael Dougherty, Dan Harris and David Hayter
o Generation X: Comic Book History
o Enhanced for D-Box Motion Code Systems
o BD-Live: Wolverine Exclusive
o HD Marvel Universe Trailers
Disc Two
o History of the X-Men
+ The Secret Origin of X-Men
+ Nightcrawler Reborn
o Pre-Production
+ Nightcrawler Attack – Multi-Angle Study
+ Evolution in the Details – Designing X2
+ United Colors of X
o Production
+ Wolverine/Deathstrike Fight Rehearsal
+ The Second Uncanny Issue of X-Men – Making X2
+ Introducing the Incredible Nightcrawler!
+ Nightcrawler Stunt Rehearsal
+ Nightcrawler Time-lapse
+ FX2 – Visual Effects
o Post-Production
+ Requiem For Mutants – The Score of X2
+ X2 Global Webcast Highlights
o Deleted Scenes
+ Extended Wolverine/Deathstrike Fight
+ Wolverine Kills the Intruder
+ Mystique in Stryker's Files
+ Nightcrawler BAMF to Save the Students
+ Jean and Storm in the X-Jet
+ Jubilee at the Museum
+ Pyro Starts the Campfire
+ One of the Children is Sick After BAMFing
+ Rogue Helps the Children Escape
+ Professor X and Cyclops Escape
+ Arriving to an Empty School
o Galleries
+ Characters
o Locations and Sets
+ Alkali Lake Dam
+ Cerebro
+ Dark Cerebro
+ Deathstrike's Office
+ Drake Residence
+ Museum
+ Mystique & Laurio
+ Plastic Prison
+ Stryker's Base
+ White House
+ X-Jet
+ X-Mansion
+ Mutant X-Rays
+ Nightcrawler Circus Posters
o On-Camera Graphics
+ Museum
+ Plastic Prison
+ Ronny's Room Posters
+ Stryker's Base
+ X-Jet
+ X-Mansion
o The Unseen X2
+ Angel (Archangel)
+ Danger Room Set Construction
+ Danger Room Set Design
+ Danger Room Storyboards
+ Sentinels
o Three HD Trailers
Disc Three
o Digital copy
X3: The Last Stand
o Disc One Director and Writer Commentary by Brett Ratner, Zack Penn and Simon Kinberg
o Producer Commentary by Avi Arad, Lauren Shuler Donner and Ralph Winter
o HD Deleted Scenes (Optional Director and Writer Commentary by Brett Ratner, Zack Penn and Simon Kinberg)
+ Xavier Voice-Over for Main Titles
+ Jimmy in Laboratory
+ Alternate Version: Beast Meets Logan
+ Pyro Tells Magneto About the Cure Announcement – Clean Shaven Version
+ Pyro Tells Magneto About the Cure Announcement – Bearded Version
+ Alternate Version: Guard Yells at the President
+ Extended Fight Sequence at Jean Grey's House
+ “Psychic Battle” Voices
+ Alternate Version: Bobby & Kitty Skate
+ Original Version: Jean Displays Her Power at the Encampment
+ Plastic Weapons Manufacturing
+ Hank Warns Trask of Magneto's Plan
+ Original Version: X-Men Board the Jet
+ Jean Senses a Scared Little Girl
+ Magneto Asks Jean To Help in the Battle
+ Storm Creates a Wave
+ Beast Breaks A Neck
+ Bobby Freezes Phat
+ Alternate Version: Here's Juggy
+ Magneto Tortures Logan
+ Extended Dark Phoenix Destruction
+ Alternate Ending: New School Year Begins
+ Alternate Ending: Rogue Returns
+ Alternate Ending: Logan Returns to Alberta, Canada
o Enhanced for D-Box Motion Code Systems
o HD Easter Eggs:
+ Beast Recites Shakespeare
+ X-Jet Lands in D.C.
o BD-Live: Wolverine Exclusive
o HD Marvel Universe Trailers
Disc Two
o Brett Ratner's Production Diary
o X-Men: Evolution of a Trilogy
o X-Men Up Close – Interactive gallery with stills and video
o Generation X: Comic Book History
o Fox Movie Channel Presents: Life After Film School
o Fox Movie Channel Presents: Casting Session
o X3: The Excitement Continues in HD
o Anatomy of a Scene: Golden Gate Bridge in HD
o HD Vignettes
+ Prophecies
+ X-Men Politics
+ Clothing vs. Costume
+ Make-up Chair Confessions
+ Weapons of Choice
+ On Set Effects
+ Learning to Fly
o HD Blogs
+ Production Teaser
+ Live From the Danger Room
+ MARVELous Cameos
+ Editing Magic
o Previz Animatics
+ Young Jean Grey
+ The Danger Room
+ Mystique's Interrogation
+ Jean Rises From the Lake
+ Logan and Storm Look for Scott
+ Jimmy Meets Mutant Playmate
+ Angel Escapes
+ Mystique's Prison Break
+ Jean Kills Xavier
+ Angel Lands at School
+ Magneto Talks to Jean in the Woods
+ Logan Fights with Spike
+ Multiple Man Decoy
+ Magneto Moves Golden Gate Bridge
+ Angel Joins the Battle
+ Angel Saves His Dad
+ Ash Burns Soldiers
+ Omega Muties Break into Lab
+ Juggernaut Chases Kitty
+ Dark Phoenix Finale
o Galleries
+ Character Stills
+ Concept Art, Storyboards & Models
o Easter Egg
+ Colossus Throws Logan Into the Camera
o Three HD Trailers
Disc Three
o Digital Copy
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X-Men Blu-ray Trilogy Gets Detailed
posted February 5, 2009 06:16 PM by Josh Dreuth
20th Century Fox 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has announced the technical specs and special features for the upcoming Blu-ray releases of 'X-Men', 'X2: X-Men United', and 'X3: The Last Stand', which are due to hit store shelves on April 21st, both individually and as a 'X-Men Trilogy' box set. Video for these releases will be presented in 1080p AVC accompanied by 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks.
Each film will come as a three-disc set, featuring the film and extras spread across the first two Blu-ray disc, and a third DVD containing a digital copy of the film for portable video devices.
Pre-order time, another must buy ;). I just wish they had a release without the digital copies. :( It just adds to the cost.
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Pre-order time, another must buy ;). I just wish they had a release without the digital copies. :( It just adds to the cost.
now available for pre-order at Amazon, bro. joji .....
you can check it out .... HERE (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001PPGAKS?tag=bluray-000-20) :D :D :D
SRP is $55.99 ..... :D
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now available for pre-order at Amazon, bro. joji .....
you can check it out .... HERE (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001PPGAKS?tag=bluray-000-20) :D :D :D
SRP is $55.99 ..... :D
Atty. ya great price imo..Surely will get this and sell my x3 sa marketplace nalang hehe..Its too expensive to buy 1 and 2 separately, 48+ dollars ata for both :(
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Atty. ya great price imo..Surely will get this and sell my x3 sa marketplace nalang hehe..Its too expensive to buy 1 and 2 separately, 48+ dollars ata for both :(
Hello bro. Raymund. ;)
Yup, it'll be cheaper to get the trilogy ..... instead of getting it on piecemeal basis ..... :D :D :D
The SRP of the trilogy is really tempting ..... :D :D :D
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This will be a definite buy..but for those who already have X3, do you buy the boxed set? or the individual movies...for me ill wait depending on the cover of the box set ;D ;D ;D
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'Dog Soldiers' to Bite into Blu-ray this May
The 'Dog Soldiers' are headed to high-def, with First Look confirming an early-May Blu-ray release for the Scottish werewolf tale.
Directed by Neil Marshall, 'Dog Soldiers' was one of the breakout horror hits of 2002 and has since become a cult favorite on video in the US.
First Look Home Entertainment will give the film its Blu-ray debut on May 5.
There are no tech or supplement details as of yet, but given the Blu-ray's "nice price" of only $19.98, we'll keep you posted on what, if any, extras make their way to the high-def version.
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Universal Bundling 'Pitch Black,' 'Riddick' for Blu-ray
The trials of Riddick are coming to high-def, with Universal announcing a late-March release for the hits 'Pitch Black' and its sequel, 'The Chronicles of Riddick.'
Both directed by David Twohy and starring Vin Diesel, 1999's sci-fi sleeper 'Pitch Black' and its less well-received sequel 'The Chronicles of Riddick' will hit Blu-ray concurrently, with Universal slotting a March 31 street date.
Each will be available as a stand-alone release, as well as a two-pack bundle (there is no additional content or exclusives included in the two-pack).
Tech specs for each title will see a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p video and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround tracks.
Extras on 'Pitch Black' boast two audio commentaries, multiple making-of featurettes ("The Game Is On," "The Johns Chase Log," "The Making of Pitch Black," "Dark Fury: Advancing the Arc," "The Chronicles of Riddick Visual Encyclopedia," "A View into the Dark"), and U-Control exclusives including a picture-in-picture track and "Pitch Black Raw." The disc will also come BD-Live enabled, with a My Scenes Sharing function.
Less robust than its predecessor, 'The Chronicles of Riddick' does not come with any exclusive content, but does include an audio commentary, six featurettes ( "Virtual Guide to The Chronicles of Riddick," "Toombs Chase Log," "Virtual Effects Revealed," "Creation on New Mecca," "Riddick Rises," "Keep What You Kill") and deleted scenes.
Suggested retail price for each stand-alone Blu-ray has been set at $29.99, and $59.98 for the two-pack.
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'Donnie Darko' Sequel Headed Straight to Blu-ray
The mysteries of Donnie Darko are returning to Blu-ray, with Fox Home Entertainment announcing first details on an April high-def release for the video premiere sequel 'S. Darko.'
Not much is known about the long-in-development sequel to the cult classic 'Donnie Darko,' other than its events take place seven years after those in the original film.
The answers will be revealed on April 28, when Fox releases 'S.Darko: A Donnie Dark Tale' direct-to-video, day-and-date on Blu-ray and DVD.
Text specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround audio.
We don't have confirmation on extras as of yet, but watch this space for further details in the days ahead.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.99.
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'True Blood' to Take Bite Out of Blu-ray
The vampires of 'True Blood' are coming to high-def, with Warner announcing a May Blu-ray debut for the complete first season of the hit HBO series.
A critical and ratings winner for the cable network, the Alan Ball-created vampire series will make its Blu-ray debut on May 19 (day-and-date with the standard DVD) via the Warner/HBO Home Video label.
'True Blood: The Complete First Season' will present all 12 first season episodes spread across five BD-50 dual-layer discs. Specs will see 1080p/VC-1 video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
We don't have confirmation on extras as of yet, but watch this space for further details in the days ahead.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $79.98.
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Blu-ray Details for 'The Spirit' Revealed
Final specs for 'The Spirit' have emerged, with Lionsgate adding DTS-MA 7.1 audio and exclusive content to the April Blu-ray release.
As reported to the trades earlier this week, Lionsgate was planning to debut the Frank Miller graphic novel adaptation on Blu-ray April 14, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
The official press details have now emerged, with Lionsgate presenting the effects-heavy film on a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 7.1 Surround.
Extras will include audio commentary by Miller and Deborah Del Prete, three featurettes ("Green World," "Miller on Miller," "History Repeats"), an alternate storyboard ending, and the theatrical trailer.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray are BD-Live features (here dubbed "Lionsgate Live"), including a MoLog interactive movie watching function and additional content.
Finally, included on a bonus disc is a Digital Copy of the film (in standard-def) compatible with PCs, PSP and iTunes.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.95.
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Rumor Mill: Paramount Readying 'Star Trek' Movies, Original Series for Blu-ray?
The overseas release of classic 'Star Trek' on Blu-ray this April has hopes high that the same titles may find their way to US store shelves by this Spring.
Numerous internet reports have surfaced that Paramount has alerted several international distributors in both France and Germany that it is planning to release the first six 'Star Trek' theatrical feature films, including such favorites as 'The Wrath of Khan' and 'The Voyage Home,' on Blu-ray on April 10.
The studio is also reportedly planning, in conjunction with CBS Home Video, to debut 'Star Trek - the Original Series, Season 1' in its entirety as a Blu-ray box set, also on April 10.
The titles are thought to be timed to help prime the promotional pump for the upcoming theatrical debut of J.J. Abrams' highly-anticipated big-screen reboot, 'Star Trek.'
Though the international release of these titles doesn't necessarily mean they'll also hit shelves stateside, generally Paramount's release of such tentpole titles in major worldwide markets happens concurrently with (or is preceded by) a US release, heightening expectations that a US announcement could be on its way.
We should stress that with no official word from Paramount or CBS stateside, all discussion of a US release of the 'Trek' catalogue is purely speculative at this point.
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30th Anniversary Screening of Kramer vs Kramer
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced that they will hold a "Hollywood's Finest – LIVE" Screening and Q&A for 'Kramer vs Kramer' on Tuesday February 17th at the Fine Arts Theater in Beverly Hills, CA. The event is timed to celebrate the 30th Anniversary and Blu-ray release of the film, which is due to hit store shelves that same day.
Writer/director Robert Benson and actor Justin Henry will be present for the Q&A session that is set to follow the screening. For those who can't attend in person, Sony will post highlights of the Q&A session via BD-Live.
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Tell No One Extras Detailed
Blu-ray Movies MPI Media Group has announced the extras for the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'Tell No One', which is due to hit store shelves on March 31st, day-and-date with the DVD release. Technical specs have not been revealed at this time. Extras include deleted scenes, outtakes, the featurette "Tell No One: The B Side". Exclusive to the Blu-ray release will be a making of featurette.
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Season Two of Dexter Coming This May
Paramount Home Entertainment has revealed that they will bring 'Dexter: The Complete Second Season' to Blu-ray on May 5th. The set will feature all 12 episodes in 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack. The release will be BD-Live enhanced, giving viewers to additional content like featurettes, podcasts, and the first two episodes of the Showtime series 'The United States of Tara' and 'Nurse Jackie'.
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Rumor: New Terminator 2 Release Coming Soon?
Retailers have been alerted to a new Blu-ray release of 'Terminator 2: Judgment Day' with no release date. An "Endo Skull Edition" release was also revealed, indicating a possible limited edition version in the works as well. Now, we normally do not report on placeholders, but being that a new Terminator film is due for theatrical release this May, and industry insiders have mentioned a possible new release, we can say its a safe bet that a new Blu-ray release is on its way.
As mentioned, no firm date (or specs, for that matter) have been released, but you can bet that the studios love for timing home video releases with theatrical releases won't be lost here - a May date is looking very probable.
Originally released by Lionsgate in 2006, the current Blu-ray release of 'Terminator 2: Judgment Day' features an MPEG-2 video encode accompanied by a 6.1 DTS-ES soundtrack. Most likely, this new release will feature an AVC video encode along with a DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack, which should yield a tangible upgrade on both fronts.
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X-Men Blu-ray Trilogy Gets Detailed
posted February 5, 2009 06:16 PM by Josh Dreuth
A look at the boxset ....... ;D ;D ;D
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/xmentrilogy_US_bd.jpg)
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/xmen_US_bd.jpg)
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/x2_US_bd.jpg)
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/x3_US_bd.jpg)
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A look at the boxset ....... ;D ;D ;D
(http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii48/JAQY888/xmentrilogy_US_bd.jpg)
definitely getting the box set!!!!!
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'CSI' Coming to Blu-ray
The TV mega-hit 'CSI' is coming to high-def, with Paramount Home Entertainment announcing a May Blu-ray debut for the show's first season.
Making the network world safe for the police procedural, the highly-influential drama will arrive on Blu-ray May 12, with 'CSI: Crime Scene Investigation - The First Season.'
Paramount has not issued tech or supplement specs as of yet, but the show's complete first season is expected in 1080 video with some form of high-res audio. We'll keep you posted.
The studio has also not yet confirmed a suggested list price, but watch this space.
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definitely getting the box set!!!!!
ya Im salivating already, I wanna get this and Batman Anthology for sure ;D..classics :)
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'Dragon Ball Z' Triple-Header Set for Late-March Blu Debut
FUNimation has announced its next burst of Dragon Ball Z, planning a late-March Blu-ray arrival for a triple-feature of its top 'Broly' titles.
Like the company's previous Dragon Ball Z double-feature releases, 'Dragon Ball Z: Broly: The Legendary Super Saiyan/Broly: Second Coming/Bio Broly' will present three complete and full-length animes on a single BD-50 dual-layer disc.
FUNimation has set a March 31 street date for the triple-punch.
There were no tech specs or supplemental details available at press time, but we'll keep you posted.
As with past 'Dragon Ball Z' releases, suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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'Dexter' Second Season to Cut Up Blu-ray this May
Paramount Home Entertainment has announced plans to bring the second season of the hit series 'Dexter' to Blu-ray in early-May.
The latest TV-on-high-def release from the studio, 'Dexter: The Complete Second Season' will arrive on Blu-ray May 5, day-and-date with the standard DVD. It follows 'Dexter: The Complete First Season,' which Paramount released on Blu earlier this year.
Tech specs will see all 12 second-season episodes in 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras include multiple making-of featurettes, a spate of podcasts, and two bonus episodes each of the Showtime series 'The United States of Tara' and 'Nurse Jackie.'
The set will also come BD-Live-enabled, with additional downloadable content to be announced.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $54.99.
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Genius Products and Discovery Channel Team Up For Blu-ray Documentaries
Genius Products and the Discovery Channel are teaming up to bring four new documentary specials to Blu-ray in early-April.
Culled from a quartet of top doc titles from the Discovery Channel and its sister network Animal Planet, Genius will release the following on Blu-ray April 7 -- 'The Beauty of Snakes,' 'Gettysburg: The Battle and the Address,' 'Mars: The Quest for Life' and 'The World's Biggest and Baddest Bugs.'
Aside from 1080 presentations and as-yet-unspecified audio options, tech specs are not yet available,
At press time, there are no announced supplements. We'll keep you posted of all future updates from Genius and the Discovery Channel.
Suggested list price for each Blu-ray has been set at $24.95.
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New Chris Botti Blu-ray Due for March
Sony Music has announced that they will bring 'Chris Botti: Live in Boston' to Blu-ray on March 31st, day-and-date with the DVD and CD releases. The world famous trumpeter was filmed over two nights playing with friends (including Sting, Josh Groban, Steven Tyler, Yo-Yo Ma, John Mayer, Katharine McPhee, Lucia Micarelli, and Sy Smith) for this release. Video specs have not been released at this time, but we do know that audio will be presented in 7.1 Dolby TrueHD.
The sole special features is a behind-the-scenes documentary chronicling the making-of-the-concert.
Audio tracks included on this release include:
* Ave Maria
* When I Fall In Love
* Seven Days
* Emmanuel
* I've Got You Under My Skin
* Cinema Paradiso
* Broken Vow
* Flamenco Sketches
* Glad To Be Unhappy
* Hallelujah
* Smile
* If I Ever Lose My Faith In You
* Time To Say Goodbye
* Caruso
* The Look of Love
* Cryin'
* Indian Summer
* Shape of My Heart
* Fragile
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Panasonic Moves Forward with 3D Blu-ray Plans
Panasonic has recently opened new 3D labs at the Panasonic Hollywood Laboratory in California in order to establish and develop their version of 3D Blu-ray, which they are calling "3D Full HD" (3D FHD). There, they will work directly with Hollywood studios to develop 3D Blu-ray titles, as well as develop consumer products to support those titles.
The company plans to develop a 3D Plasma display, a 3D-ready digital cinema projector, and a 3D-ready MPEG-4 decoder for consumer applications. For evaluation purposes, they will install a 380-inch screen at their facility, which is assumed to replace the existing screen in their evaluation room (which is a really nice set-up).
Eisuke Tsuyuzaki, Managing Director of Panasonic Hollywood Laborator, commented, "Panasonic recognizes that for 3D FHD to succeed, just like Blu-ray, collaboration on research, development and production with studios and content providers is absolutely essential. The creation of the new PHL Authoring Center will enable Hollywood to start trial production and ultimately create commercially available 3D FHD titles to realize a new window into reality, and elevate the level of High Definition entertainment that consumers can enjoy in their own homes."
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New Chris Botti Blu-ray Due for March
Sony Music has announced that they will bring 'Chris Botti: Live in Boston' to Blu-ray on March 31st, day-and-date with the DVD and CD releases. The world famous trumpeter was filmed over two nights playing with friends (including Sting, Josh Groban, Steven Tyler, Yo-Yo Ma, John Mayer, Katharine McPhee, Lucia Micarelli, and Sy Smith) for this release. Video specs have not been released at this time, but we do know that audio will be presented in 7.1 Dolby TrueHD.
The sole special features is a behind-the-scenes documentary chronicling the making-of-the-concert.
Audio tracks included on this release include:
* Ave Maria
* When I Fall In Love
* Seven Days
* Emmanuel
* I've Got You Under My Skin
* Cinema Paradiso
* Broken Vow
* Flamenco Sketches
* Glad To Be Unhappy
* Hallelujah
* Smile
* If I Ever Lose My Faith In You
* Time To Say Goodbye
* Caruso
* The Look of Love
* Cryin'
* Indian Summer
* Shape of My Heart
* Fragile
Hey Chuck 427,
A friend gave me a cd of his a while back and when I heard his rendition of Ave Maria...it was a hair standing experience ;D
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Hey Chuck 427,
A friend gave me a cd of his a while back and when I heard his rendition of Ave Maria...it was a hair standing experience ;D
ill try getting a copy of Ave Maria..if its as good as u say, then this will be a definite buy.. :D :D :D
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Fox, Seth MacFarlane to Bring 'Uncensored' Cartoon Comedy to Blu
Seth MacFarlane is bringing his brand of uncensored laughs to high-def with the April Blu-ray release of 'Cavalcade Of Cartoon Comedy.'
Featuring "never before seen, exclusive new episodes" dubbed "too outrageous for TV or the internet!," Fox will release the 54-minute 'Seth MacFarlane's Cavalcade Of Cartoon Comedy: Uncensored!' on Blu-ray April 21 (day-and-date with the standard DVD).
There are no tech or supplement specs, or even detailed information on the disc's program contents, but we expect full press details from Fox in the coming days. We'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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'From a Place of Darkness' Coming to Blu-ray
Celebrity Video Distribution has announced an early-May Blu-ray release for the indie erotic drama 'From a Place of Darkness.'
Starring John Savage and Bronson Pinchot in a tale about a documentary filmmaker who delves into the dark world of snuff films, Celebrity will debut the limited-release thriller on Blu-ray May 5 (day-and-date with the DVD).
There are no tech or supplement specs available at this time, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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Fox Goes 3-Disc with 'Marley & Me' Blu-ray
Fox Home Entertainment has announced the first details for 'Marley & Me,' which will be the studio's first Blu-ray/DVD/Digital Copy three-disc combo when it hits Blu-ray in late March.
The biggest hit of the Christmas season, the Jennifer Aniston-Owen Wilson starrer grossed nearly $150 million domestically. Fox has confirmed a March 31 retail date for the Blu-ray, which will arrive day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Details see 'Marley & Me' receiving a three-treatment, becoming the first Fox title to include both Blu-ray and standard DVD versions, plus a Digital Copy.
Tech specs for the Blu-ray will see the feature film and extras on a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround.
Extras include multiple featurettes ("Finding Marley," "Breaking the Golden Rule," "On Set with Marley: Dog of All Trades," "Animal Adoption," "When Not to Pee"), selections from " Purina Dog Chow Marley & Me Video Contest Finalists," a gag reel, and 19 deleted scenes.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray is Dog Training 101 picture-in-picture (Bonus View), and a Dog Training trivia track.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray edition has been set at $39.99.
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TMNT Blu-ray Boxset Revealed for August
Warner Home Video has revealed that they will bring the 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Collector's Edition Box Set' to Blu-ray this August, day-and-date with the DVD release. The set, which is celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the characters, will include all four TMNT films - 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles', 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze', 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles III: Turtles in Time', and 'TMNT' - in stunning high definition.
No technical specs or special features have been revealed at this time, but you can click here to view the Warner Brother's website showing the proposed box and disc art.
The set includes all three live-action films (ah... remember the good 'ole days before endless CG sequences?) as well as the most recent animated film, which was released on Blu-ray in 2007.
We expect to hear more as the release date approaches.
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Transporter 3 Gets Detailed
Lionsgate Home Entertainment has announced the technical specs and special features for the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'Transporter 3', which is due to hit store shelves on March 10th, day-and-date with the DVD release. This two-disc set, which features a digital copy of the film, will be presented in 2.35:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* “Special Delivery: An Inside Look at Modern-Day Transporters” featurette
* Behind-the-Scenes Bonus Footage featuring:
o StoryBoards
o Sets/Production Design
o Special FX
* “Making of Transporter 3” featurette
* Audio commentary with director Olivier Megaton
* MOLO – network connected community and interactive movie blog tool set
* Theatrical trailer
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Paramount Announces Catalog Titles for May
In an early alert to retailers, Paramount Home Entertainment revealed an impressive list of catalog titles they will be bringing to Blu-ray this May. As these are just retailer alerts, no technical specs or special features have been revealed for any of these titles, but you can expect the typical 1080p AVC video and Dolby TrueHD audio.
May 5th
* 'How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days: Deluxe Edition'
* 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off'
* 'Grease'
* 'Saturday Night Fever'
May 12th
* 'Black Sheep'
* 'Major League'
* 'Wayne's World'
* 'Wayne's World 2'
* 'Without a Paddle'
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The Day The Earth Stood Still Remake Coming to Blu-ray
20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring the 2008 remake of 'The Day the Earth Stood Still' to Blu-ray on April 7th, day-and-date with the DVD release. This three-disc set will feature a digital copy of the film as well as a copy of the 1951 remake (presumably on Blu-ray). Video will be presented in 2.45:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* Klaatu's Unseen Artifacts: The Day The Earth Stood Still Picture-In-Picture Track (BD Exclusive)
* “Build Your Own GORT,” BD-Java Game (BD Exclusive)
* Deleted Scenes
* Re-Imagining “The Day” Featurette
* Unleashing Gort Featurette
* Watching The Skies: In Search Of Extraterrestrial Life Featurette
* The Day The Earth Was “Green” Featurette
* Commentary By Writer David Scarpa
* Still Galleries
o Concept Art
o Storyboards
o Production Photos
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Pitch Black; Chronicles of Riddick Further Detailed
Universal Studios Home Entertainment have further detailed the upcoming Blu-ray releases of 'Pitch Black' and 'The Chronicles of Riddick', which are due to hit store shelves on March 31st, both individually and as a two-pack. Video will be presented in 1080p VC-1 accompanied by DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks.
Extras include:
Pitch Black
* U-CONTROL: Universal's exclusive signature feature, U-Control puts viewers one click away from going deeper into the making of the film without ever leaving the movie.
o PICTURE IN PICTURE: Access interactive cast and crew interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, all while you watch the movie.
o PITCH BLACK RAW: Explore the making of a special-effects fueled action epic through side-by-side comparisons of raw CGI to finished sequences, and raw dailies to final scenes.
* BD-LIVE(TM): Access the BD-Live(TM) Center through your Internet-connected player to get even more content, watch the latest trailers, and more!
o MY SCENES: Pick your favorite scenes from the film to create your own video montage.
* AN INTRODUCTION BY DAVID TWOHY
* THE GAME IS ON: Utilizing animatics and concept art created during the development of the game, this feature summarizes the events preceding Pitch Black.
* JOHNS' CHASE LOG: A visual, animated and interactive day-by-day diary of the merc Johns' pursuit of Riddick. Viewers will gain a broader understanding of how Johns' was almost killed by Riddick, but also how he eventually tracked and captured Riddick. Voice-over by Cole Hauser.
* THE MAKING OF PITCH BLACK
* DARK FURY: ADVANCING THE ARC: A tantalizing first look THE CHRONICLES OF RIDDICK: DARK FURY, the animated prequel to RIDDICK.
* THE CHRONICLES OF RIDDICK VISUAL ENCYCLOPEDIA: Using an interactive interface coupled with production art and drawings, the consumer can familiarize themselves with the complex worlds, language and terminology from THE CHRONICLES OF RIDDICK. Voice-over by Cole Hauser.
* A VIEW INTO THE DARK: An early look into the THE CHRONICLES OF RIDDICK, featuring new interviews with Vin Diesel and director David Twohy.
* FEATURE COMMENTARY WITH VIN DIESEL, COLE HAUSER AND DIRECTOR DAVID TWOHY
* FEATURE COMMENTARY WITH DIRECTOR DAVID TWOHY, PRODUCER TOM ENGELMAN AND VISUAL EFFECTS SUPERVISOR PETER CHIANG
The Chronicles of Riddick
* U-CONTROL: Universal's exclusive signature feature, U-Control puts viewers one click away from going deeper into the making of the film without ever leaving the movie.
o PICTURE IN PICTURE: Access interactive cast and crew interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, all while you watch the movie.
o COMPLETE CHRONICLES: Explore the history and mythology of Riddick.
o CHRONICLES COMPENDIUM: Multi-tiered, dossier on characters, races, planets, religions, weapons and spacecrafts.
o ANATOMY OF A FIGHT: Investigate select fight scenes to demonstrate the real-life science of Riddick's hand-to-hand combat skills.
* BD-LIVE(TM): Access the BD-Live(TM) Center through your Internet-connected player to get even more content, watch the latest trailers, and more!
o MY SCENES: Pick your favorite scenes from the film and share with your BD-Live(TM) buddies.
* INTRODUCTION BY DAVID TWOHY
* DELETED SCENES WITH COMMENTARY BY DAVID TWOHY
* VIRTUAL GUIDE TO THE CHRONICLES OF RIDDICK: Immerse yourself into the world of The Chronicles of Riddick from the perspectives of the characters.
* TOOMBS' CHASE LOG: Track the hunt for Riddick from bounty hunter Toombs' perspective.
* VISUAL EFFECTS REVEALED: A play-by-play breakdown of the most complex and compelling visual FX in The Chronicles of Riddick.
* CREATION OF NEW MECCA: Visit New Mecca on Helion Prime and explore this futuristic world from concept to completion.
* RIDDICK RISES: Learn about Riddick's past, present and future including and in-depth view of his training, weapons and more.
* KEEP WHAT YOU KILL: Discover how the Necromonger Empire has mastered the art of war, learn their dark secrets, their strategies and witness their powers and fighting prowess.
* FEATURE COMMENTARY WITH WRITER-DIRECTOR DAVID TWOHY AND ACTORS KARL URBAN AND ALEXA DAVALO
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Paramount Announces Catalog Titles for May
In an early alert to retailers, Paramount Home Entertainment revealed an impressive list of catalog titles they will be bringing to Blu-ray this May. As these are just retailer alerts, no technical specs or special features have been revealed for any of these titles, but you can expect the typical 1080p AVC video and Dolby TrueHD audio.
May 5th
* 'How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days: Deluxe Edition'
* 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off'
* 'Grease'
* 'Saturday Night Fever'
May 12th
* 'Black Sheep'
* 'Major League'
* 'Wayne's World'
* 'Wayne's World 2'
* 'Without a Paddle'
Wow greatest news for me haha..Two of my favorites, Ferris Bueller and Major League ;D..Man will be costly May and June for me. Will for surely get Ferris Bueller, Grease, How to lose a guy in 10 days, Major League, Waynes world 1 and 2 and Ghostbusters in June :)
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so many movies...but very few pesos.. :'( :'( :'(
haaay...price we pay for having an expensive hobby....but kahit na..go parin!!
ill probably be getting most of those eventually..heheheheheh
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Warner Announces 'True Romance' Blu-ray for May
Warner has issued an early retail announcement for 'True Romance,' which will make its first-ever high-def appearance in late-May.
Starring Christian Slater and Patricia Arquette, and written by Quentin Tarantino, Warner will debut 'True Romance' on Blu-ray May 26. (The studio previously released a special edition DVD in 2004.)
There are no tech or supplement specs at this early date, but we expect full press details in the days ahead. We'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $28.95.
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Warner Says 'Yes Man' on Blu-ray
Warner has announced details for 'Yes Man,' which will come to Blu-ray in early-April with extensive bonus features and BD-Live.
The latest hit from Jim Carrey, 'Yes Man' didn't ignite the box office quite as strongly as past Carrey comedies, but it still managed to earn over $100 million domestically.
Warner will release the Blu-ray on April 7, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Tech specs feature a BD-25 single-layer disc with 1080p/VC-1 video (2.35:1) and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Among the extras are multiple featurettes ("Behind the Story," "Performed by Jim Carrey and Others," "Say Yes to Red Bull! As Only Carrey Can," "Yes Man: Party Central with Norman Stokes"), a "Yes Loans! Infomercial," additional footage, a gag reel, and "Munchausen by Proxy" reel of five music videos.
The Blu-ray will also come BD-live-enabled, with exclusive content still to be announced.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $35.95.
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Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves Announced for Blu-ray
Warner Home Video has announced that they will bring 'Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves' to Blu-ray on May 26th in its extended cut form. This Kevin Costner film will come on a BD-50, and feature 1.85:1 1080p VC-1 video. The audio specs have not been fully detailed at this time, though we are expecting to see a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack available for this release.
Extras for this release include:
* Behind the Scenes
o Commentary with Kevin Costner and Director Kevin Reynolds
o Commentary with Morgan Freeman, Christian Slater and producers Pen Densham and John Watson
o Robin Hood: The Man, The Myth, The Legend
o One on One with the Cast (with Play all option)
+ Kevin Costner
+ Morgan Freeman
+ Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio
+ Christian Slater
+ Alan Rickman
* Music Videos
o Bryan Adams “(Everything I do I do it) For You” -Live At Slane Castle
* Trailers
o Theatrical Trailer
o A Legend
o A Legend
o A Love Story
o A love Story
o Fight for Justice
o Fight For Justice
* Extras
o Music Soundtrack Cues in 5.1 (Play all option)
+ Overture and a Prisoner of the Crusades
+ Sir Guy of Gisborne and the Escape to Sherwood
+ Little John and the Band in the forest
+ The Sheriff and His Witch
+ Maid Marian
+ Training-Robin Hood Prince of Thieves
+ Marian at the Waterfall
+ The Abduction and the final Battle at the Gallows
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Sony to Join Games and Movies on Blu-ray
Exercising the huge disc capacity advantage PS3 has over the competition, Sony will, later this year, release video game and movie hybrid discs that will contain both a film and a video game based on the film. As gamers are well aware, film property is often licensed for video game adaptations, and Sony's idea would marry the two entertainment mediums together.
John Koller, Director of Hardware Marketing for the PS3, commented, "We are actively pushing, and the way that we see the future is that the movie and the game are placed on the same disc. There are a lot of developers who say, we have this game based on a movie, wouldn't it be great to marry these concepts? We will definitely see this stuff this year."
While this would be the first instance of a game and movie coming on the same disc, it would not be the first time a game and movie have been sold together. Notable for the Blu-ray crowd was the Collector's Edition release of 'Stranglehold' which included a Blu-ray release of 'Hard Boiled'. As of today, buying the game is the only way to watch 'Hard Boiled' on Blu-ray.
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Here is an article i read regarding Bluray..not sure if this would be the best place to post it..but here it is..
2009: The Year of Blu-ray Movies
The current global economic crisis has hurt the bottom lines of many studios, forcing them to rethink ways to increase profits during times when fewer people are venturing out to the theaters. DVD used to be the go-to solution, but over the past few years profits from DVD sales have plateaued and even begun to drop as the market has become saturated. In fact, one of the few bright points on studios' balance sheets has been Blu-ray, an area where profits are good, and sales continue to increase, but apparently not fast enough.
Since late last year, studios have been reevaluating their Blu-ray strategy in order to speed up consumer adoption of the format. Sure, Blu-ray sales have continued to rise since the beginning of the year, but studios want the high definition format to replace DVD, not commingle with it. DVDs no longer provide studios with the buckets of money they used to, and rampant piracy in Asia and South America are robbing them of bottom line cushion.
The arguments as to why Blu-ray hasn't killed DVD yet are well known. First, it was because there were two high definition formats. Check. Next, it was because players cost too much, and while Blu-ray players still come at a premium to DVD players, its getting much, much closer. Then, it was not enough movies available, but today's Blu-ray catalog is huge, with ample selection no matter what your preferences. Check. Now, its that Blu-ray titles are either too expensive, or don't provide enough value. That is where the studios have stepped up to the plate.
For those of you who have been using our new deals tracker, you may have noticed something interesting. The major Hollywood studios are dropping their older catalog prices, resulting in Amazon pricing them for as low as $15! Now, while the DVD editions of these films are typically under $10, the price reduction should help draw in those who couldn't justify the Blu-ray purchase due to the price. For Fox, a studio who has been widely criticized for regularly pricing catalog titles higher then other studios price their new Blu-ray releases, this was a drastic, but necessary reduction that is sure to increase sales.
Another price reduction technique employed by both Paramount and Universal has been to group titles together for sale at a reduced price. Both studios have decided to group related titles, such as Paramount's 'Sweeney Todd & Sleepy Hollow set which costs less than buying 'Sweeney Todd' alone, and Universal's 'Ultimate Unrated Comedy Collection' which saves you a few bucks over buying the titles individually.
The other side of the issue is value. As a format, Blu-ray was built to provide more value for viewers by adding special features like BonusView picture-in-picture and BD-Live content. In light of Managed Copy becoming vaporware, studios have also begun providing digital copies of films with their releases, allowing users to legally copy the film to their portable video devices or computers.
An idea that Disney first implemented, and now Fox will follow, is the idea of providing a DVD of the film with the purchase of the Blu-ray. Sure, die hard Blu-ray fans question the need for a DVD version of the film, but those families who have DVD players in their children's rooms or in their vehicles know the benefit to having both. Play the Blu-ray on the big screen, and throw the DVD in the car for those long trips. In other words, studios are making Blu-ray more mainstream.
One drawback to this new found enthusiasm is that studios have begun to withhold title announcements. While they are increasing the number of releases hitting store shelves, the announcements are coming much closer to the actual release date instead of months before. Only last year it was normal to see title announcements 3-5 months before release. Now, we are seeing some titles announced with only a month's notice. While this may seem as somewhat disappointing, it does help alleviate upcoming releases mysteriously disappearing.
At the time, many spoke about how 2008 would be the year that Blu-ray would either come into its own or painfully fade away. Looking back, it may be more accurate to say that 2008 was the year for Blu-ray hardware - seeing the drastic price reductions of the pre-holiday season - and that 2009 is the year for Blu-ray movies. While no one has specially come out and said it, there is a very visible change in the studios' Blu-ray policy. Having followed this format from the very beginning, I can honestly say that there were times were I would doubt a studio's commitment to Blu-ray. I don't think anyone could say that today.
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'Without a Paddle' Headed to Blu-ray this May
Paramount Home Entertainment is bringing the comedy 'Without a Paddle' to Blu-ray in mid-May.
The 2002 comedy, which starred Seth Green and Matthew Liliard, proved to be a fairly sizable hit upon first release, eventually snagging over $70 million in domestic box office receipts.
Eventually spawning a direct-to-video sequel of its own ('Without a Paddle: Nature's Calling,' which Paramount released on high-def earlier this year), the original film will make its belated Blu-ray debut on May 12.
There are no tech or supplement specs available as of yet, but a package comparable to the previous special edition DVD is expected. Stay tuned.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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'Akira' Coming to Blu-ray
In a late-breaking announcement, Honneamise will bring the anime classic 'Akira' to Blu-ray later this month.
Originally expected to receive a Blu-ray release last year, we've received last-minute confirmation from the indie distributor that they will at last release 'Akira' in a first-ever high-def edition on February 24.
Specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with a new 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer (1.85:1) and Japanese audio in Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround, PCM 2.0 Stereo, and Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround. An English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround dub is also provided.
Unlike the previous special edition DVD release, extras are comparatively sparse, with only a storyboard collection and five theatrical trailers.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $49.95
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Disney to Unfurl 'Bedtime Stories' as Blu-ray/DVD Combo
Disney has announced early details for 'Bedtime Stories,' which is coming to high-def this April as a Blu-ray/DVD combo edition with Digital Copy.
Showing a softer, more family-friendly side of Adam Sandler (who produces as well as stars), the live action-animation hybrid will arrive on Blu-ray April 5 (day-and-date with the standard DVD).
Full specs have yet to be revealed, but Disney has confirmed so far that the Blu-ray will be a three-disc set that includes a BD-50 dual-layer disc with the main feature, plus two additional platters with standard DVD and Digital Copy versions.
We'll keep you posted as final specs and bonus features are confirmed.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.99.
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'Black Sheep' Coming to Blu-ray
In an early alert to retailers, the comedy 'Black Sheep' has received a mid-May Blu-ray release date.
Starring Chris Farley and David Spade, 'Black Sheep' will make its first-ever appearance in high-def on May 12. (The studio previously issued a standard DVD back in 2003.)
There are no tech or supplement specs available as of yet, but a package comparable to the standard DVD is expected. Watch this space for final details in the days ahead.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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Tai Seng Announces Lady Cop Film for Blu-ray Release
Tai Seng has announced that they will bring 'Lady Cop & Papa Crook' to Blu-ray on March 31st, day-and-date with the DVD release. The film, which was made by the same team that produced 'Initial D' and 'Infernal Affairs', will be presented in 1.85:1 1080p accompanied by a 7.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack.
Special features for this release include a making-of featurette and trailers.
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Army of Darkness Announced for Blu-ray
Universal Studios Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring Sam Raimi's 'Army of Darkness: Screwhead Edition' to Blu-ray on May 19th, day-and-date with the DVD release. Coming on a BD-25, video will be presented in 1.85:1 1080p VC-1 accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* U-CONTROL: Universal's exclusive signature feature, U-Control puts viewers one click away from going deeper into the making of the film without ever leaving the movie
o PRODUCTION PHOTOS: Access interactive production photos from the set without interruption to the movie experience.
* BD-LIVE(TM): Access the BD-Live(TM) Center through your Internet-connected player to get even more content, watch the latest trailers, and more!
* MY SCENES: Pick your favorite scenes from the film to create your own video montage.
* ALTERNATE ENDING: See the original ending planned for the film.
* DELETED SCENES: Additional scenes that never played in theaters.
* THE MEN BEHIND THE ARMY: Go behind-the-scenes with star Bruce Campbell.
* ADDITIONAL FOOTAGE: See extra footage shot for the film.
* FEATURE COMMENTARY with director Sam Raimi, star Bruce Campbell, and co-writer Ivan Raimi
* THEATRICAL TRAILER: The original promotional trailer for the theatrical release
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Paramount to Bring First Six 'Star Trek' Films to Blu-ray
Boldly going where the studio has never gone before, Paramount Home Entertainment has announced two Blu-ray box sets that will bring the original 'Star Trek' motion pictures to high-def for the first time.
Landing on Earth May 12, Paramount will bundle the first six 'Star Trek' big-screen adventures on Blu-ray for the first time as the seven-disc collection 'Star Trek: Original Motion Picture Collection.'
The set includes the theatrical cut versions only of all six titles, which include 'Star Trek: The Motion Picture,' 'Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan,' 'Star Trek III: The Search for Spock,' 'Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home,' 'Start Trek V: The Final Frontier' and 'Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country.'
Hoping to entice fans of the "Genesis Arc" installments of the franchise, Paramount will also box up 'Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan,' 'Star Trek III: The Search for Spock' and 'Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home' as the lower-priced 'Star Trek: Original Motion Picture Trilogy' Blu-ray set. It will also be available May 12.
Specs and supplements of the individual titles will be identical in each collection, with the feature films each receiving a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p video and newly-remixed English Dolby TrueHD 7.1 Surround audio tracks.
Supplements will mix features both new and old, with each title enjoying audio commentary, featurettes, still galleries, deleted scenes, storyboards and theatrical trailers. (For full specs on each title, see the links below.)
All titles will also come BD-Live-enabled, with the downloadable features "Library Computer" and "Star Trek IQ." Exact details on contents are TBA.
Finally, the 'Star Trek: Original Motion Picture Collection' will also house the bonus disc "Star Trek: The Captains' Summit," which will include a 70-minute exclusive roundtable discussion hosted by Whoopi Goldberg and featuring stars William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, Patrick Stewart, and Jonathan Frakes discussing the series and its legacy.
Suggested retail price for the 'Original Motion Picture Collection' Blu-ray has been set at $104.99, and for the 'Original Motion Picture Trilogy,' MSRP is $48.99.
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Paramount to Pitch 'Major League' on Blu this May
The sluggers of 'Major League' are coming to high-def, with Paramount Home Entertainment alerting retailers to a mid-May Blu-ray release for the hit comedy.
Starring Charlie Sheen and Tom Berenger, 'Major League' turned out to be one of the sleeper hits of 1989, and eventually went on to spawn not one but two subsequent sequels.
The studio has announced that the original film will make its Blu-ray debut on May 12. (At press time, Paramount has not announced a high-def release for either sequel.)
There are no tech or supplement specs available as of yet, but as always, we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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Da Vinci Code Blu-ray Gets Detailed
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced the special features and technical specs for the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'The Da Vinci Code: Extended Cut', which is due to hit store shelves on April 28th. The release, which is being released two weeks before the theatrical release of Tom Hanks new film 'Angels & Demons', will be presented on a two-disc set utilizing 2.40:1 1080p AVC video accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* Disc 1 Cinechat
* NEW Select Scenes Commentary with Director Ron Howard
* Unlocking the Code Interactive Picture-in-Picture (I-PIP)
Disc 2
* Featurettes Include First Day on the Set with Ron Howard
* A Discussion With Dan Brown
* A Portrait of Langdon
* Who is Sophie Neveu?
* Unusual Suspects
* Magical Places
* Close-up on Mona Lisa
* The Filmmakers' Journey
* The Codes of The Da Vinci Code
* The Music of The Da Vinci Code
* Book to Screen
* The Da Vinci Props
* The Da Vinci Sets
* Re-creating Works of Art
* The Visual Effects World of The Da Vinci Code
* Scoring The Da Vinci Code
* La Partie Francaise Du Da Vinci Code
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Akira Kurosawa's Ran Announced for Blu-ray
The Criterion Collection has announced that they will bring Akira Kurosawa's 'Ran' to Blu-ray on May 12th. Previously released as a two-disc DVD set, this Blu-ray disc is expected to include all the special features on a single disc. Technical specs have yet to be confirmed, but you can expect a 1.85:1 1080p AVC video presentation with some sort of lossless/uncompressed audio track.
Expected extras for this release include:
* New, restored high-definition digital transfer
* Audio commentary by Kurosawa scholar Stephen Prince
* An appreciation of the film by director Sidney Lumet
* A.K., a 74-minute film by director Chris Marker
* A 30-minute documentary on the making of Ran, part of the Toho Masterworks series Akira Kurosawa: It Is Wonderful to Create
* A 35-minute video piece reconstructing Ran through Kurosawa's paintings and sketches, created as part of the series Image: Kurosawa's Continuity
* New video interview with actor Tatsuya Nakadai
* Theatrical trailers
* New and improved English subtitle translation
* Plus: a 28-page booklet featuring film critic Michael Wilmington and interviews with Kurosawa and composer Toru Takemitsu
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Mitsubishi Announces In-car Blu-ray Player
Mitsubishi Mitsubishi Electronics has announced that they hope to have a single-DIN Blu-ray player commercially available by the end of the year. The device - which measures 50x178x180mm - will be able to play BD-ROM, BD-R, and BD-RE discs. The player operates on Linux, and is expected to be paired with the companies existing in-dash navigation system.
At CES 2008, Panasonic also debuted a single-DIN in-car Blu-ray player, though, at that time it was much deeper than a typical car radio. Mitsubishi has not indicated whether the unit will be made available to consumers, or if they will be used solely as OEM equipment from auto manufacturers.
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What Doesn't Kill You Announced for Blu-ray
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'What Doesn't Kill You' to Blu-ray on April 28th, day-and-date with the DVD release. Video will be presented in 1.85:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack. As will all new Sony releases, it will also be BD-Live enhanced.
Extras for this release include:
* Commentary with Writer/Director Brian Goodman and Writer Donnie Wahlberg
* Deleted and Alternate Scenes
* Makes You Stronger: The Making of What Doesn't Kill You
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Fracture Announced for Blu-ray Release
New Line Home Entertainment in conjunction with Warner Home Video have announced that they will bring 'Fracture' to Blu-ray on June 16th. Technical specs have yet to be announced at this time, though you can expect a 1080p VC-1 video presentation accompanied by a Dolby TrueHD soundtrack. Special features have not been revealed at this time.
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Paramount to Tell 'How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days' on Blu-ray
In an early alert to retailers, Paramount Home Entertainment has reveled plans to bring the romanic comedy 'How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days' to Blu-ray in early-May.
Starring Matthew McConaughey and Kate Hudson, 'How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days' was the sleeper chick flick of 2005, pulling in over $100 million domestically.
Paramount has alerted retailers to a May 5 Blu-ray release for the film. (The studio previously issued a standard DVD back in 2005.)
There are no tech or supplement specs available as of yet, but the Blu-ray is dubbed a "Deluxe Edition," so we expect extensive extras. Stay tuned.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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Bond Films Scheduled for UK Blu-ray Release
MGM Home Entertainment in conjunction with 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment have announced that they will bring the James Bond films 'Moonraker', 'The World is Not Enough', and 'Goldfinger' to Blu-ray on March 23rd in the UK to accompany the Blu-ray release of the newest Bond film 'Quantum of Solace'.
Technical specs and special features are expected to mimic the US Blu-ray releases of these titles.
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Passengers Delayed Until May
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced that they have delayed the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'Passengers' until May 12th. No explanation was given for the delay, though it appears that when the title does hit store shelves (day-and-date with the DVD release) all previously announced special features will be included.
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Jean-Claude Van Damme's 'JCVD' Coming to Blu-ray
The mussels from Brussels is back on high-def, with Peace Arts announcing a late-April Blu-ray date for the Jean-Claude Van Damme actioner 'JCVD.'
Originally tagged a comeback vehicle for Van Damme on the order of Mickey Rourke in 'The Wrestler,' 'JCVD' sees the actor deliver a more mature, weathered performance in the crime thriller.
Unfortunately, and no doubt hampered by a title that sounds like a venereal disease, 'JCVD' failed to attract domestic moviegoers, and after a brief theatrical run, the film will essentially head straight-to-video on April 28 when Peace Arts releases the Blu-ray (day-and-date with the standard DVD).
No tech or supplement specs yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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Disney Outlines Specs, Adds Exclusives to 'Pinocchio' Blu-ray
Walt Disney Studios has unwrapped final specs for 'Pinocchio,' which will see a Platinum Blu-ray release this March with hours of exclusive content.
As previously reported, Disney has set a March 10 street date for 'Pinocchio,' which arrives on Blu-ray as the studio's second Platinum Series title (following last year's successful release of 'Sleeping Beauty').
Disney has outlined final specs for this 70th anniversary remaster, which will receive painstakingly-restored 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 7.1 Surround track.
Extras on this two-disc set include audio commentary with Leonard Maltin, Eric Goldberg and J. B.
Kaufman, the documentary "No Strings Attached: The Making of Pinocchio," additional "The Sweat Box" featurette, deleted scenes and songs, an alternate ending, extensive still galleries, rare rehearsal footage and the interactive game "Pinocchio's Puzzles."
Exclusive to the Blu-ray is a Cine-Explore mode (Bonus View required) with picture-in-picture making-of content, plus extensive BD-Live connectivity including a "Movie Chat" live viewing function, "Movie Mail," "Movie Challenge" interactive online trivia game, and a "Disney Rewards" program.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $35.99.
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New Line Details 'Fracture' Blu-ray Specs
Final specs are in for 'Fracture,' though fans may be disappointed with the bare-bones Blu-ray New Line has planned for a mid-June release.
As reported earlier this week, New Line/Warner announced a June 16 Blu-ray release for the critically acclaimed Anthony Hopkins-Ryan Gosling courtroom thriller, but kept details scarce.
Final tech specs will see a BD-25 single-layer presentation, with 1080p/VC-1 video (2.35:1) and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Bonus features are quite sparse, with only deleted scenes, an alternate ending, and theatrical trailer.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $28.95.
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Highlander Season One Delayed
Some of you might have noticed that the Blu-ray release date for 'Highlander: Season 1' has come and gone without a release. Well, according to the Legendary Heroes website, the release has been delayed until 2010. According to inside sources, the actual material is in very poor condition, and extras, that were supposed to come from Paramount, have fallen through.
Legendary Heroes will still honor pre-orders - the first 1000 orders receive a Duncan Katana Mini-Sword - and there is hope that by amassing a large preorder list, they will be able to be able to get the bonus material for their release.
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8 Mile Back on Blu-ray Release Schedule
Universal Studios Home Entertainment has announced that the Eminem film '8 Mile' is now back on their Blu-ray release schedule, set to hit store shelves on April 7th. Originally scheduled for release last November, the title was delayed in order to coincide with the release of the new Eminem album 'Relapse'.
Technical specs appear to have not changed with the delay: 2.35:1 1080p VC-1 accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack. All previously announced extras are also intact, with a making of featurette, exclusive rap battles, and the uncensored version of Eminem's "Superman" music video.
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Rumor: Alien Films Coming to Blu-ray
The folks over at Bloody Disgusting have an interesting bit of information that we thought our viewers might be interested in hearing. According to their sources, Fox is reportedly working on bringing the first three 'Alien' films to Blu-ray. When they are released - reportedly sometime this year - they will include all new special features developed exclusively for Blu-ray.
We'll stay on top of this story and let you know if any further information is revealed.
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The Grudge Blu-ray Delayed Until May
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment have announced that they have delayed the Blu-ray release of 'The Grudge' until May 12th in order to coincide with the direct-to-video sequel 'The Grudge 3' (which presumably will come out on the same day). No technical specs or special features have been affected with the delay.
For 'The Grudge 3', the title has yet to be announced officially for Blu-ray, so no technical specs or special features have been announced at this time.
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Doubt Coming to Blu-ray
Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring the Academy Award-nominated film 'Doubt' to Blu-ray on April 7th, day-and-date with the DVD release. Starring Philip Seymour Hoffman and Meryl Streep, the film will be presented in 1.78:1 1080p AVC video accompanied by a lossless/uncompressed soundtrack.
Special features for this release include:
* From Stage to Screen - John Patrick Shanley, Meryl Streep and Sister Margaret McEntee discusses the history of the film, inspirations for the story, and adapting the acclaimed play to film
* Musical score featurette
* Interviews with John Patrick Shanley and Meryl Streep on talking to real nuns in order to portray their lives accurately in the film
* Cast interviews
* Audio commentary with John Patrick Shanley
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Philips Adds Blu-ray Players to Line-up
Philips has announced three new Blu-ray Disc players which are being added to their high definition electronics line-up in Europe. The first one out of the gate will be the Philips BDP7300, which is due to hit store shelves in March, is a BD-Live player capable of playing video at 1080p24 and decoding all Blu-ray audio codecs, including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. It is expected to retail for 300 euros.
The Philips BD3000 and Philips BD5000, which are due later this year, will also be BD-Live compatible, but will not feature all the bells and whistles of the more expensive model. These two players are expected to retail at 200 and 250 euros respectively.
There is actually a forth Blu-ray player in the pipeline, the Philips BDP9100, that will be compatible with Philips upcoming 21:9 displays. No additional information regarding that player was available at time of report.
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Rumor: Alien Films Coming to Blu-ray
The folks over at Bloody Disgusting have an interesting bit of information that we thought our viewers might be interested in hearing. According to their sources, Fox is reportedly working on bringing the first three 'Alien' films to Blu-ray. When they are released - reportedly sometime this year - they will include all new special features developed exclusively for Blu-ray.
We'll stay on top of this story and let you know if any further information is revealed.
This will be awesome. However I just like 1 and 2
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Naku...Patay tayo dito... :P :P :P
MY TWO CENTS - 2/20/09 - by Digital Bits editor Bill Hunt
And Lionsgate has also confirmed the 5/19 release of a Terminator 2: Judgment Day - Skynet Edition on Blu-ray Disc. That same day, you'll also get a 6-disc T2: Complete Collector's Set - Limited Edition containing the new Blu-ray along with the previous Ultimate and Extreme Edition DVD releases. Both the Blu-ray and the set will also include a Digital Copy version. You can read more on that here at Video Business today. We also have word that European versions of the Blu-ray will come packed in badass "Endoskeleton Skull" packaging. There's no word yet on whether the U.S. version will have this. (We sure hope so!) You can learn more at the German Area DVD website. Thanks to Bits reader Wilfried V. for the heads-up on the packaging. Here's what it looks like. Take a look at this bad boy...
(http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/1918/t2skynetbd68bf8d.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
IGN confirmed that the Skull packaging will be available here in the States with the 6-disc Limited Edition T2 Complete Collector's Set (SRP $174.99) :o :o :o. The set will also include the the Terminator 2: Skynet Edition Blu-ray (SRP $29.99 separately). The Blu-ray will feature DTS-HD MA audio, audio commentary with director James Cameron and co-writer William Wisher, a second commentary with 26 members of the cast and crew, an enhanced viewing mode with PiP video, text commentary and art galleries, an additional storyboard-to-script viewing mode, interactive games and trivia, a THX Optimizer and D-Box motion control enhancement.
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Whoa...looks good but the price is the real killer! :-\
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In addition, the Terminator 2 Skynet Edition Blu-ray will be available for a limited time in the Limited Edition T2 Complete Collector's Set, a 6-disc set that allows the ultimate T2 fan to play the film anytime, anywhere! Packaged with a 14" T-800 Endoskull bust that plays sound effects from the film while its eyes light up, this collectible set features the Terminator 2 Skynet Edition Blu-ray plus both the Extreme Edition DVD and Ultimate Edition DVD – which, combined, include every T2 special feature ever released on DVD. As a bonus, the Limited Edition T2 Complete Collector's Set comes with a digital copy of the film for iTunes or Windows Media.
(http://img22.imageshack.us/img22/4558/terminator2skyneteditio.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
(http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/4558/terminator2skyneteditio.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
Check out the Trailer (http://bluray.ign.com/dor/objects/892253/terminator-2-judgment-day/videos/t2_skynet_blu_022009.html)
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very very nice!!!!! kaso lang mahal..i wonder how much cheaper it will be sa Amazon...hopefully below $100?? ;D ;D ;D
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Updated Specs, Street Date for 'Grudge' Blu-ray
Fans can look forward to a fully-loaded Blu-ray of 'The Grudge,' but will have to wait a few extra weeks to get it, with Sony announcing a street date bump of over two months to mid-May.
As first announced last month, Sony had planned to bring the $125 million-grossing horror smash to Blu-ray on March 10, complete was a special edition.
The studio has now finalized specs and a new date, with the Blu-ray pushed back to May 12 (timed to coincide with the release of the direct-to-DVD sequel 'The Grudge 3.')
Final tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation, with 1080p/VC-1 video (2.35:1) and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio in both English and French.
Among the extensive bonus features are two audio commentaries (with Sam Raimi, Ted Raimi and Sarah Michelle Gellar, plus a second track with director Takashi Shimizu, producer Taka Ichise and actress Takako Fuji), a pair of featurettes ("Myth of the Ju-On," "Under the Skin"), plus the features "Sights and Sounds: The Storyboard Art of Takashi Shimizu" and "Production Designer's Notebook: The Sketches of Iwao Saito," and two Ju-On short films ("4444444444," "In a Corner").
The disc will also come BD-Live-enabled, with links to Sony's online Blu-ray destination and downloadable trailers.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $28.95.
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Bedtime Stories Comes to Blu-ray
Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring the Adam Sandler family film 'Bedtime Stories' to Blu-ray on April 5th, day-and-date with the DVD release. The set will feature the film and its extras on the first disc, a digital copy on the second disc, and a DVD copy of the film on the third disc. Video will be presented in 2.35:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* Cutting Room Floor
* Laughter is Contagious
* Until Gravity Do Us Part
* It's Bugsy
* To All Little People
* Audio commentary
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Two More Pixar Films Coming the May
Walt Disney Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring the two Pixar films 'A Bug's Life' and 'Monster's Inc' to Blu-ray on May 19th. Both titles will be two-discs set, featuring a digital copy of the film on a separate DVD. Technical specs have yet to be announced at this time, though it is expected that both releases will receive 1080p AVC video and DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack encodes.
Extras for these two films will include all the features on the previous DVD releases, including the following Blu-ray exclusive extras:
A Bugs Life
* A Bug's Life Introduction by John Lasseter
* Roundtable with John Lasseter, Andrew Stanton, Kevin Rehr and Darla Anderson
* Storyboard animations
* BD-Live
o Movie Chat
o Movie Mail
Monster's Inc
* Roundtable with Pete Docter, Lee Unkrich, Darla Anderson, and Darla Anderson
* Interactive Game
* BD-Live
o Movie Chat
o Movie Mail
o Disneyland Tokyo attraction
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Sin City Specs Revealed
Walt Disney Home Entertainment has revealed the technical specs and special features for the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'Sin City: Unrated, Recut & Extended', which is due to hit store shelves on April 21st. For this two-disc set, video will be presented in 1.85:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* Disc One: Theatrical Cut All new Cine-Explore – Innovative Blu-ray technology allows viewers to experience a uniquely interactive visual commentary that pushes the envelope. When selected, see picture-in-picture green screen footage and original art synced with the filmmakers' commentary.
* Commentary with Robert Rodriguez and Frank Miller
* Commentary with Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino
* Audio Track Featuring a Recording of the Austin Audience Reaction
Disc Two: Unrated, Recut Extended Version
* All new “Kill ‘em Good” Interactive Comic Book - Dive into a visually stunning interactive game that puts you in the driver's seat. Exploiting the Blu-ray format in ways never before seen, you finish the story – with guns blazing!
* Four Chapters:
o Chapter One- That Yellow Bastard
o Chapter Two- The Customer Is Always Right
o Chapter Three- The Hard Goodbye
o Chapter Four- The Big Fat Kill
* Rodriguez Special Features:
o 15-Minute Film School
o All Green Screen Version
o The Long Take
o Sin City: Live in Concert
o 10-Minute Cooking School
* How It Went Down: Convincing Frank Miller To Make The Film
* Special Guest Director: Quentin Tarantino
* A Hard Top With A Decent Engine: The Cars of Sin City
* Booze, Broads, and Guns: The Props of Sin City
* Making the Monsters: Special Effects Make-up
* Trench Coats & Fishnets: The Costumes of Sin City
* Teaser & Theatrical Trailer
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Frost/Nixon Coming to Blu-ray in April
In an early announcement to retailers, Universal Studios Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring the Academy Award-nominated movie 'Frost/Nixon' to Blu-ray on April 21st, day-and-date with the DVD release. Coming on a BD-50, video will be presented in 2.35:1 1080p VC-1 accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* Feature Commentary with Director Ron Howard
* U Control - Picture-In-Picture (BD Exclusive)
* U Control - The Nixon Chronicles (BD Exclusive)
* Discovering Secrets: The People and Places Behind the Story (BD Exclusive)
* Deleted Scenes
* The Making of Frost/Nixon
* The Real Interview
* The Nixon Library
* BD Live - Download Center (BD Exclusive)
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Naku...Patay tayo dito... :P :P :P
MY TWO CENTS - 2/20/09 - by Digital Bits editor Bill Hunt
And Lionsgate has also confirmed the 5/19 release of a Terminator 2: Judgment Day - Skynet Edition on Blu-ray Disc. That same day, you'll also get a 6-disc T2: Complete Collector's Set - Limited Edition containing the new Blu-ray along with the previous Ultimate and Extreme Edition DVD releases. Both the Blu-ray and the set will also include a Digital Copy version. You can read more on that here at Video Business today. We also have word that European versions of the Blu-ray will come packed in badass "Endoskeleton Skull" packaging. There's no word yet on whether the U.S. version will have this. (We sure hope so!) You can learn more at the German Area DVD website. Thanks to Bits reader Wilfried V. for the heads-up on the packaging. Here's what it looks like. Take a look at this bad boy...
(http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/1918/t2skynetbd68bf8d.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
IGN confirmed that the Skull packaging will be available here in the States with the 6-disc Limited Edition T2 Complete Collector's Set (SRP $174.99) :o :o :o. The set will also include the the Terminator 2: Skynet Edition Blu-ray (SRP $29.99 separately). The Blu-ray will feature DTS-HD MA audio, audio commentary with director James Cameron and co-writer William Wisher, a second commentary with 26 members of the cast and crew, an enhanced viewing mode with PiP video, text commentary and art galleries, an additional storyboard-to-script viewing mode, interactive games and trivia, a THX Optimizer and D-Box motion control enhancement.
This would look great beside the Alien head and Sonny head boxset. :o
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Two More Pixar Films Coming the May
Walt Disney Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring the two Pixar films 'A Bug's Life' and 'Monster's Inc' to Blu-ray on May 19th. Both titles will be two-discs set, featuring a digital copy of the film on a separate DVD. Technical specs have yet to be announced at this time, though it is expected that both releases will receive 1080p AVC video and DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack encodes.
Extras for these two films will include all the features on the previous DVD releases, including the following Blu-ray exclusive extras:
A Bugs Life
* A Bug's Life Introduction by John Lasseter
* Roundtable with John Lasseter, Andrew Stanton, Kevin Rehr and Darla Anderson
* Storyboard animations
* BD-Live
o Movie Chat
o Movie Mail
Monster's Inc
* Roundtable with Pete Docter, Lee Unkrich, Darla Anderson, and Darla Anderson
* Interactive Game
* BD-Live
o Movie Chat
o Movie Mail
o Disneyland Tokyo attraction
Yup, it's already available for pre-order at Amazon. Eventhough a little bit expensive, it's still a must buy for me. ;D
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Yup, it's already available for pre-order at Amazon. Eventhough a little bit expensive, it's still a must buy for me. ;D
was never a big fan of 'a bugs life'..moster inc though will be a definite buy..but not now kasi mahal pa..will wait and hopefully it will go down.. ;D ;D ;D
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New Terminator 2 Releases Confirmed (UPDATED)
Lionsgate Home Entertainment has announced that they will release 'Terminator 2: Judgment Day - Skynet Edition' to Blu-ray on May 19th. Additionally, Lionsgate will release the 'Limted Edition T2 Complete Collector's Set', a six disc set which will feature the Blu-ray release of the film along with Extreme Edition DVD and Ultimate Edition DVD versions of the film and a digital copy of the film, all packaged in a 14-inch T-800 endoskull replica that plays sound effects from the film as its eyes light up.
The Blu-ray disc will feature multiple versions of the film in 1080p AVC accompanied by a 6.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack. Extras for this release include:
* Picture-in-picture behind-the-scenes video
* Text commentaries
* Multimedia galleries
* A mode that lets viewers view storyboards and read the script while watching the film
* Interactive quizzes and games
* Two audio commentaries
* D-Box motion control enhancements
* BD Live access to games and bonus content
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Not Easily Broken Announced for Blu-ray
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'Not Easily Broken' to Blu-ray on April 7th, day-and-date with the DVD release. Coming off a somewhat successful theatrical release earlier this year, this film will be presented in 1.85:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* Deleted & Extended Scenes
* Driving with Julie
* Dropping off the Sawyers
* Making Not Easily Broken
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Two Classic Romantic Comedies Coming to Blu-ray
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring the Steve Martin romantic comedy 'Roxanne' and the Nicolas Cage romantic comedy 'It Could Happen to You' to Blu-ray on May 5th. Both films will be presented in 1080p AVC video accompanied by 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtracks.
Special features have not been announced for either title at this time.
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Worldwide Blu-ray Sales On Pace for 100M Units in 2009
In a new report from Futuresource Consulting, the research firm is now saying that the Blu-ray format is currently on pace to sell 100 million units this year worldwide. The majority of those sales would still occur in the US, which is predicted to represent 80% of total disc sales. The second largest buyer is said to be the UK, which represent 40% of Western Europe in Blu-ray units sold.
Normally, I would not comment on analysis of this nature, but being that the analysis covers current year projections (rather than 3-5 years from now), I feel it holds more merit. As always, only time will tell.
In 2008, approximately 36 million units were sold of Blu-ray titles, an increase of over 300% from the previous year. Additionally, because of the success of Blu-ray in the US, the format has moved from the "early adopter" phase to "early majority", with sales expected to dramatically increase throughout the year.
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DEG (Japan) Announces Top Blu-ray Titles of 2008
The Digital Entertainment Group (DEG) Japan has announced their list of the top Blu-ray titles of 2008. Awards are given for excellence in picture quality, sound quality, and interactivity. Additionally, a "Best in Show" award is given to the title which incorporates all of these qualities. Judges include pominent audio video critics, film and DVD magazine editors, and representatives from hardware manufacturers.
This year, the best in show winner was Warner Brother's 'The Dark Knight', for "unsurpassed clarity and sound on Blu-ray Disc and its ability to excite consumers and drive them to retail". The American arm of DEG also selected 'The Dark Knight' for their "Best in Show" award as well.
Best in Picture Quality (Live Action) - The Dark Knight
Best in Picture Quality (Anime/CG) - The Nightmare Before Christmas (Collector's Edition)
Best in Sound (Music) - NHK Classical – Seiji Ozawa Berliner Philharmoniker - Tchaikovsky Symphony no.6 in B minor, op.74 "Pathetique"
Best in Sound (Movie) - Ghost In The Shell
Best in Interactivity - Resident Evil: Degeneration
Special Recognition - NHK Special – "Satoyama" & Ken Hirai Live Tour 2008 "Fakin' Pop"
The Magic Hour - Fuji Television Network, "Apan" & Sleeping Beauty Platinum Edition
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Batman Anthology Blu-ray Detailed
Warner Home Video has released the technical specs and full list of special features for the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'Batman: The Motion Picture Anthology 1989-1997', which is due to hit store shelves on March 10th. This five disc set - which features 'Batman', 'Batman Returns', 'Batman Forever', and 'Batman & Robin' - features 1080p VC-1 video accompanied by 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtracks.
Special features for this release include:
Batman
* Behind the Story
o Commentary by director Tim Burton
o On the set with Bob Kane
o Legends of the DARK KNIGHT: The History of BATMAN – The BATMAN Comic Book Saga as reinvented and reinterpreted over nearly seven decades
o Shadows of the Bat: The Cinematic Saga of the DARK KNIGHT Parts 1-3:
+ The Road to GOTHAM
+ The Gathering Storm
+ The Legend Reborn
o Beyond BATMAN (Documentary Gallery):
+ Visualizing GOTHAM: The production design of BATMAN
+ Building the BATMOBILE
+ Those Wonderful Toys: The Props and Gadgets of BATMAN
+ Designing the BAT-SUIT
+ From Jack to THE JOKER
+ Nocturnal Overtures: The Music of BATMAN
* Music Videos – Three Music Videos by Prince
o Batdance
o Partyman
o Scandalous
* Extras
o BATMAN: The Heroes (Profile Galleries)
+ BATMAN
+ VICKI VALE
+ ALEXANDER KNOX
+ COMMISSIONER GORDON
+ HARVEY DENT
o Batman: The Villains (Profile Galleries)
+ THE JOKER
+ BOB THE GOON
* BATMAN: The Complete ROBIN Storyboard Sequence
* Trailer
o Theatrical trailer
Batman Returns
* Behind the Story
o Commentary by Tim Burton - Sit with director Tim Burton and explore this dark sequel
o THE BAT, THE CAT and THE PENGUIN - Cast and crew recall the making of this equally spectacular sequel
o Shadows of the Bat Pt. 4: Dark Side of the Knight - Hear from the cast and crew to learn how this sequel came to be
o BATMAN: The Heroes
+ BATMAN
+ ALFRED
o BATMAN: The Villains
+ THE PENGUIN
+ CATWOMAN
+ MAX SHRECK
o Beyond BATMAN
+ GOTHAM CITY Revisited: The Production Design of BATMAN Returns
+ Sleek, Sexy and Sinister: The Costumes of BATMAN Returns
+ Making-up THE PENGUIN
+ Assembling the Arctic Army
+ Bats, Mattes and Dark Nights: The Visual Effects of BATMAN
+ Inside the Elfman Studio: The Music of BATMAN Returns
* Music Videos
o Face to Face Music Video by Souixsie and the Banshees
* Trailers
o Theatrical trailer
Batman Forever
* Behind the Story
o Commentary by director Joel Schumacher
o RIDDLER ME THIS: Why is BATMAN Forever? – How a new director and cast created a new vision of Gotham's classic good and bad guys
o Shadows of the Bat: The Cinematic Saga of the DARK KNIGHT Part 5: Reinventing a Hero - The BATMAN Franchise is reenergized with a new look and new characters , bringing fun to the set and success at the box office
o Beyond BATMAN (Documentary Gallery)
+ Out of the Shadows: The production design of Batman Forever - Barbara Ling explains how each location in famed Gotham City was modernized and customized to each character
o The Many faces of GOTHAM CITY - See how the costumes and make-up of Batman Forever contributes to the new and edgy look.
o Knight Moves: The Stunts of Batman Forever - Go behind the scenes with stuntman Keith Campbell, as he demonstrates how some of the most difficult stunts are set-up and executed
o Imaging Forever: The Visual Effects of Batman Forever - A look back at the special effects of the movie, at the beginning of the Digital Age of movie-making
o Scoring Forever: The Music of Batman Forever - Sit in on a scoring session of Batman Forever and listen to composer Elliot Goldenthal as he discusses the sound chosen for the movie.
* Additional Footage
o Escape from ARKHAM ASYLUM
o TWO-FACE's hate
o Beauty and the BATMAN
o Dick's pain
o Bruce's dilemma
o The secret of the BATCAVE
o Does it ever end?
* Music Video
o Kiss from a Rose Music Video by Seal
* Extras
o Batman: The Heroes - Brief character analyses of the characters of BATMAN heroes by the filmmakers, cast and fans
+ BATMAN
+ ROBIN
+ DR. CHASE MERIDIAN
o BATMAN: The Villains – Brief character analyses of the characters of BATMAN villains by the filmmakers, cast and fans
+ THE RIDDLER
+ TWO-FACE
* Trailer
o Theatrical trailer
Batman & Robin
* Behind the Story
o Commentary by director Joel Schumacher
o Shadows of the Bat: The Cinematic Saga of the Dark Knight Part 6: BATMAN Unbound - Cast and crew discuss the casting, controversies, and fan anticipation and reaction to the fourth installment of the BATMAN Franchise.
o Beyond BATMAN Documentary Gallery
+ Bigger, Bolder, Brighter: The production design of BATMAN and ROBIN - Take a look behind the scenes of the biggest character environments and the unique new inventions
+ Maximum Overdrive: The Vehicles of BATMAN and ROBIN - Highlights on the redesign of the Batmobile, ROBIN's motorcycle, and the Mr. Freeze machine
+ Dressed to Thrill: The Costumes of BATMAN and ROBIN - The design and manufacturing of the hot and heavy, and certain anatomically correct costumes is discussed by the costume crew
+ Frozen Freaks and Femme Fatales: The Makeup of BATMAN and ROBIN - Check out all of the details that go into the special effects make-up and hair as the crew transforms the actors into their characters
+ Freeze Frame: The Visual Effects of BATMAN and ROBIN - With more technology available than previously seen in BATMAN movies, filmmakers pushed the envelope in using visual effects
* Additional footage
o Deleted Scene: ALFRED's Lost Love
* Music Videos
o The End is the Beginning is the End by the Smashing Pumpkins
o Look into My Eyes by Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
o Gotham City by R. Kelly
o Foolish Games by Jewel
Digital Copy
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'Roxanne' Coming to Blu-ray
Sony Pictures has announced its latest catalog release for Blu-ray, marking an early-April date for the romantic comedy 'Roxanne.'
A loose retelling of the classic tale Cyrano de Bergerac, the Steve Martin-Daryl Hannah charmer will make its Blu-ray debut on April 7.
Tech Specs will see a BD-25 single-layer disc with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Despite 'Roxanne' being one of the sleeper hits of 1987, Sony isn't planning any supplements for the Blu-ray release.
As with all Sony titles, the disc will also come with BD-Live connectivity, though no exclusive content has been announced.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $28.95.
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Sony Sets April Blu Date, Specs for 'Not Easily Broken'
Sony Pictures has confirmed an early-April Blu-ray release for the romantic drama 'Not Easily Broken.'
Starring Morris Chestnut and recent Academy Award nominee Taraji P. Henson, 'Not Easily Broken' will hit Blu-ray on April 7 (day-and-date with the standard DVD), following a fairly brief theatrical run earlier this year.
Final tech specs are now in, with the film enjoying a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras include a trio of featurettes ("Driving with Julie," "Dropping off the Sawyers," "Making Not Easily Broken) and deleted scenes.
As with all Sony titles, the disc will also come with BD-Live connectivity, though no exclusive content has been announced.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $38.95.
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Sony Unveils 'Da Vinci Code' Blu-ray Specs, Exclusives
Sony Pictures has revealed final specs for 'The Da Vinci Code,' which comes to Blu-ray this April as a two-disc set with exclusive content.
As previously reported, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment finally confirmed a April 28 Blu-ray debut for the blockbuster adaptation of Dan Brown's runaway best-seller (timed to coincide with the upcoming big-screen release of its sequel, 'Angels & Demons').
Full specs are now in, with the film being presented in its extended cut form across a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080/AVC MPEG-4 video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Throwing in an extra disc just for supplements, bonus features include a select scenes audio commentary with director Ron Howard, plus over a dozen making-of featurettes ("A Discussion With Dan Brown," "A Portrait of Langdon," "Who is Sophie Neveu?," "Unusual Suspects," "Magical Places," "Close-up on Mona Lisa," "The Filmmakers' Journey," "The Codes of The Da Vinci Code," "The Music of The Da Vinci Code," "Book to Screen," "The Da Vinci Props," "The Da Vinci Sets," "Re-creating Works of Art," "The Visual Effects World of The Da Vinci Code," "Scoring The Da Vinci Code," "La Partie Francaise Du Da Vinci Code").
Exclusive to the Blu-ray release is the "Unlocking the Code" interactive picture-in-picture track. Like all Sony titles, 'The Da Vinci Code' comes BD-Live-enabled, though at press time there is no exclusive content announced.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $38.95.
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'3 Days of the Condor' to Take Aim on Blu-ray
Paramount has announced its latest catalog release for Blu-ray, bringing the classic thriller '3 Days of the Condor' to the format in mid-May.
Starring Robert Redford and directed by the late Sydney Pollack, '3 Days of the Condor' is considered one of the finest of the "paranoid thrillers" of the '70s, and will receive its domestic Blu-ray debut on May 19.
There are no tech or supplement specs confirmed as of yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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'Hounddog' Hopping to Blu-ray
Newcomer Hannover House has announced their first Blu-ray release, bringing the controversial 'Hounddog' to high-def this March.
Following bad buzz and poor previews, the southern gothic 'Hounddog' unfortunately became labeled as the "Dakota Fanning rape movie," and suffered a brief theatrical run late last year.
Now Blu-ray fans can make up their own minds, with Hannover House setting a March 17 release for the drama (day-and-date with the standard DVD).
There are no tech specs available as of yet, and Hannover House has not announced any extras. We'll update this space as further details come to us.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $24.99.
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Paramount to Issue 'Paycheck' on Blu-ray this May
Paramount is bringing 'Paycheck' to Blu-ray, with Paramount telling retailers to expect a mid-May release of the sci-fi thriller.
Based on a short story by Philip K. Dick, the Ben Affleck starrer is set to make its first high-def appearance on Blu-ray May 19.
There are no tech or supplement specs confirmed as of yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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'My Bloody Valentine' to Cut Up Blu-ray this May
The horror remake 'My Bloody Valentine' is chopping its way to Blu-ray, with Lionsgate alerting retailers to a late-May Blu-ray arrival for the slasher remake.
An update of the 1981 cult fave, 'My Bloody Valentine' earned nearly $50 million during its theatrical release earlier this year, thanks in large part to a hit run in 3-D theaters. Lionsgate has told retailers to expect a May 26 Blu-ray arrival for the film, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
There's no word yet on tech specs or supplements, or whether the studio will be presenting the film in a 3-D version. We expect more details in the days ahead, so stay tuned.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.99.
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Blu-ray Founders Working on One-Stop Blu-ray Licensing
Panasonic, Philips, and Sony are currently working with Blu-ray Disc patent holders in order to create a "one-stop shop" for Blu-ray player and disc licensing. The new company, which would be led by former head of IP at IBM Mr. Gerald Rosenthal, would be based in the United States with satellite offices in Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
Mr. Rosenthal commented, "By establishing a new licensing entity that offers a single license for Blu-ray Disc products at attractive rates, I am confident that it will foster the growth of the Blu-ray Disc market and serve the interest of all companies participating in this market, be it as licensee or licensor."
If all patent holders agree, those looking to produce Blu-ray Disc products would be charged a flat fee which would then fund a patent pool. Hardware manufacturers would be charged $9.50 for a Blu-ray Disc player and $14.00 for a recorder. Disc manufacturers would be charged $0.11 for a read-only disc, $0.12 for a recordable disc, and $0.15 for a rewritable Blu-ray disc.
When the program launches (currently scheduled for mid-2009, pending approval), the companies sees this a creating a level playing field for independent and corporate manufacturers alike.
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The Promise Coming to the UK
Blu-ray Movies Momentum Pictures has announced that they will bring the Golden Globe-nominated Chinese film 'The Promise' to Blu-ray on April 27th, day-and-date with the DVD release. No technical specs have been announced at this time. Extras include a making-of featurette, interviews with Director Chen Kaige and the cast & crew, still gallery, and trailers.
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Eagle Rock Brings More Concerts to Blu-ray
Eagle Rock Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'Asia: Fantasia Live In Tokyo', 'Paul Rodgers - Live in Glasgow', and 'Jeff Beck Performing This Week... Live at Ronnie Scott's' to Blu-ray on March 31st. Technical specs have yet to be announced for any of these titles at this time.
Track listings are as follows:
Asia
1. Time Again
2. Wildest Dreams
3. One Step Closer
4. Roundabout
5. Without You
6. Cutting It Fine
7. Intersection Blues (Steve Howe solo)
8. Fanfare For The Common Man
9. The Smile Has Left Your Eyes
10. Don't Cry
11. In The Court Of The Crimson King
12. Here Comes The Feeling
13. Video Killed The Radio Star
14. The Heat Goes On / Drum Solo
15. Only Time Will Tell
16. Sole Survivor
17. Ride Easy
18. Heat Of The Moment
Paul Rodgers
1. I'll Be Creepin'
2. The Stealer
3. Ride On A Pony
4. Radioactive
5. Be My Friend
6. Warboys (A Prayer For Peace)
7. Feel Like Makin' Love
8. Bad Company
9. I Just Want To See You Smile
10. Louisiana Blues
11. Fire And Water
12. Wishing Well
13. All Right Now
14. I'm A Mover
15. The Hunter
16. Can't Get Enough
17. Seagull
Jeff Beck
1. Beck's Bolero
2. Eternity's Breath
3. Stratus
4. Cause We've Ended As Lovers
5. Behind The Veil
6. You Never Know
7. Nadia
8. Blast From The East
9. Led Boots
10. Angel (Footsteps)
11. People Get Ready – with Joss Stone
12. Scatterbrain
13. Goodbye Pork Pie Hat / Brush With The Blues
14. Space Boogie
15. Blanket – with Imogen Heap
16. Big Block
17. A Day In The Life
18. Little Brown Bird – with Eric Clapton
19. You Need Love – with Eric Clapton
20. Rollin' And Tumblin' – with Imogen Heap
21. Where Were You
22. Race With The Devil
23. Crazy Legs
24. Train Kept A Rollin'
25. My Baby Left Me
26. Matchbox
27. Baby Blue
28. Honky Tonk / Beck Interview on Rockabilly set
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The Promise Coming to the UK
Blu-ray Movies Momentum Pictures has announced that they will bring the Golden Globe-nominated Chinese film 'The Promise' to Blu-ray on April 27th, day-and-date with the DVD release. No technical specs have been announced at this time. Extras include a making-of featurette, interviews with Director Chen Kaige and the cast & crew, still gallery, and trailers.
Looking forward to this :)
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Paramount Announces 'Changing Lanes' for Blu-ray
Paramount is bringing 'Changing Lanes' to Blu-ray, alerting retailers to a mid-May release for the topical thriller.
Starring Samuel L. Jackson and Ben Affleck in a incendiary drama of crashed cars and racial tension, 'Changing Lanes' will make its Blu-ray debut on May 19.
There are no tech or supplement specs confirmed as of yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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Kutcher's 'Personal Effects' Coming to Blu-ray
Revealing more of Ashton Kutcher in high-def than anyone likely wants to see, Universal has announced a mid-May Blu-ray release for the straight-to-video erotic drama 'Personal Effects.'
Suffering some of the worst pre-release buzz in memory, Universal has decided to send the adult study of love and loss, which co-stars Michelle Pfeiffer as Kutcher's love interest, direct-to-video on May 12 (with the Blu-ray and standard DVD arriving day-and-date).
Tech specs will see a BD-25 single-layer presentation with 1080p/VC-1 video and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
Extras include a lone "Behind the Scenes" featurette.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.99.
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'Enemy at the Gates' Headed to Blu-ray
The action cult fave 'Enemy at the Gates' is coming to high-def, with Paramount confirming a mid-May domestic release on Blu-ray.
Though not a major hit internationally in 2001, the Jude Law-Rachel Weisz war drama has amassed a cult audience in the United States, and is due to make its domestic Blu-ray debut on May 19.
There are no tech or supplement specs confirmed as of yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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MGM Adds 'Golden Gun,' 'License to Kill' to Blu-ray Bond Library
MGM has announced two new additions to its growing James Bond Blu-ray collection, setting a mid-May arrival for 'License to Kill' and 'The Man with the Golden Gun.'
Though largely considered two of the weaker entries in the 007 canon, MGM (via Fox Home Entertainment) will give both the high-def makeover on May 12.
Final specs are not yet in, but if past Bond Blu-ray titles are any indication, look for remastered 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video, DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround tracks, and all of the extras found on previous DVD editions.
There's still no word yet if MGM/Fox will also be bundling 'License to Kill' and 'The Man with the Golden Gun' in a James Bond box set (as with previous Blu-ray releases), but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for each Bond title has been set at $34.95.
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Fargo Release Gets Detailed
MGM Home Entertainment in conjunction with 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has announced the technical specs and special features for the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'Fargo', which is due to hit store shelves on May 12th. Video will be presented in 1.85:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* Feature Audio Commentary with director of photography Roger A. Deakins
* Minnesota Nice
* Trivia Nice
* American Cinematographer Article
* Photo Gallery
* Theatrical Trailer
* TV Spot
* BD-Live Boot strap
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Paramount Details Paycheck Blu-ray
Paramount Home Entertainment has announced the technical specs and special features for the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'Paycheck', which is due to hit store shelves on May 19th. For this John Woo directed film, video will be presented in 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* Commentary by Director John Woo
* Commentary by Screenwriter Dean Georgaris
* Paycheck featurette
* Tempting Fate featurette
* 7 Extended/Deleted Scenes
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Paramount Sets 'Machinist' Blu-ray for May
Paramount is bringing 'The Machinist' to Blu-ray in mid-May.
The controversial dramatic thriller, which features an acclaimed performance by a painfully-malnourished Christian Bale, will see its Blu-ray debut May 19.
There are no tech or supplement specs confirmed as of yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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MGM/Fox to Serve 'Lions for Lambs' on Blu-ray
MGM has issued an early retail announcement for a mid-May Blu-ray release of the political drama 'Lions for Lambs.'
Despite the star wattage of Tom Cruise, Meryl Streep, and actor/director Robert Redford, 'Lions for Lambs' failed to make a dent at the box office, and quickly disappeared from theaters.
MGM (via Fox Home Entertainment) will issue the Blu-ray on May 19, about a year following the standard DVD.
Tech specs will include a 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround.
No word on extras yet, but a package similar to the DVD appears likely. We'll keep you posted.
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Dolph Lundgren's 'Direct Contact' Headed to Blu-ray
'80s action superstar Dolph Lundgren is returning to high-def, with his comeback action vehicle 'Direct Contact' set for an early-May Blu-ray debut.
Starring Lundgren as a prisoner in a Russian jail who is given a chance at freedom if he can rescue a kidnapped American woman, 'Direct Contact' will largely go direct-to-video when First Look Home Entertainment premieres the Blu-ray on June 2 (day-and-date with the standard DVD).
First Look has yet to issue any tech or supplement specs for the Blu-ray, but we expect full details in the weeks ahead. We'll keep you posted.
Suggested list price has been set at $29.98.
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Powder Blue Announced for Blu-ray
Image Entertainment has announced that they will bring the drama 'Powder Blue' to Blu-ray on June 9th, day-and-date with the DVD release. Featuring an all-star cast of Jessica Biel, Ray Liotta, Eddie Redmayne, Forest Whitaker, Kris Kristofferson, Lisa Kudrow, and Patrick Swayze, the film will be presented in 2.40:1 1080p video accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
The lone special feature will be a director's commentary.
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The Reader Coming to Blu-ray
The Weinstein Company has announced that they will bring 'The Reader' to Blu-ray on April 28th, two weeks after the DVD release. This is the film that recently netted Kate Winslet the Academy Award for Best Actress. Technical specs have not been announced at this time, but you can expect a 1080p VC-1 video presentation along with a lossless/uncompressed soundtrack.
Extras include 12 deleted scenes and five making-of featurettes.
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My Bloody Valentine is 3D on BD
Lionsgate Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring the horror remake 'My Bloody Valentine 3D' to Blu-ray on May 19th, day-and-date with the DVD release. The title will include both the 2D and 3D versions of the film and 3D glasses. Technical specs have not been announced at this time, but you can expect 1080p AVC video accompanied by a DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Special features have not been announced at this time.
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Blu-ray to Get 'Good, Bad and Ugly' this May
MGM has made an early retail announcement for 'The Good, the Bad and the Ugly,' with the Sergio Leone classic headed to Blu-ray in mid-May.
Starring Clint Eastwood as one of his most famous characters, this first, epic installment of the "Man with No Name" trilogy will receive it's eagerly-awaited next-gen debut on May 12.
MGM (via Fox Home Entertainment) has yet to issue any tech or supplement specs, but we expect remastered 1080 video and DTS-MA audio, and a likely package of extras comparable to the previous, two-disc special edition DVD version.
Suggested list price has been set at $29.99.
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'Spy Game' To Play Out On Blu-ray This May
Announcing its latest "catch up" title for Blu-ray, Universal Studios has set a mid-May high-def arrival for 'Spy Game.'
The hit action thriller, which features the first on-screen pairing between stars Robert Redford and Brad Pitt, grossed nearly $100 million during its original domestic theatrical run.
Previously released on HD DVD in 2007, Universal will give the Tony Scott-directed hit its Blu-ray debut on May 19.
There are no tech or supplement specs confirmed as of yet, but as the HD DVD came fully loaded with extras, we expect a comparable package on Blu-ray. Stay tuned.
Suggested list price has been set at $29.99.
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MGM to Bring 'Force 10 From Navarone' to Blu-ray
MGM has announced its latest catalog title for Blu-ray, alerting retailers to a mid-May release for 'Force 10 From Navarone.'
Starring Robert Shaw, Edward Fox, and Harrison Ford (in one of his earliest major roles), the action cult favorite will see its Blu-ray premiere on May 12.
MGM (via Fox Home Entertainment) has yet to issue any tech or supplement specs, but we expect remastered 1080 video and DTS-MA audio, and extras that will likely match the previous DVD release.
Suggested list price has been set at $29.99.
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Green Lantern Blu-ray Revealed
Warner Home Video has announced that they will bring the next direct-to-video DC Comic feature 'Green Lantern: First Flight' to Blu-ray on July 28th, day-and-date with the DVD release. This two disc set will feature 1.78:1 1080p VC-1 video. No audio spec has been been announced at this time.
Special features for this release include over three hours of content, including two featurettes and two episodes of Justice League hand-picked by animation legend Bruce Timm.
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The Uninvited Announced for Blu-ray
Paramount Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'The Uninvited' to Blu-ray on April 28th, day-and-date with the DVD release. For this thriller, from the same people who brought you 'The Ring', video will be presented in 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack.
Extras for this release, which are in high definition, include:
* Unlocking THE UNINVITED
* Deleted Scenes
* Alternate Ending
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Extras for My Bloody Valentine Revealed
Lionsgate Home Entertainment has announced the special features for the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'My Bloody Valentine 3D', which is due to hit store shelves on May 19th, day-and-date with the DVD release. The disc, which will contain both 3D and 2D versions of the film (along with four pairs of 3D glasses) will be presented in 1080p AVC accompanied by a DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* Audio commentary
* Deep Inside My Bloody Valentine - a behind the scenes look at the making of the film
* Sex, Blood and Screams - the make-up FX from the film
* Deleted scenes
* Gag reel
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'Slumdog Millionaire' Announced for Blu-ray
This year's Best Picture has gotten a Blu-ray release date, with Fox announcing a late-March high-def arrival for 'Slumdog Millionaire.'
The worldwide sensation, which went from almost-unreleased indie darling to a $250 million-grossing, eight Academy Award-winning underdog, has been confirmed for a March 31 Blu-ray release (day-and-date with the standard DVD).
Coming fully loaded with hours of extras, bonus features include a pair of audio commentaries (with director Danny Boyle and actor Dev Patel, and a second with producer Christian Colson and screenwriter Simon Beaufoy), three featurettes ("Slumdog Dreams: Danny Boyle & The Making of Slumdog Millionaire," "From Script To Screen: Toilet Scene," "Slumdog Cutdown"), deleted scenes, a music video, and the Indian short film "Manjha."
Included on a second DVD disc is a Digital Copy of the film (in standard-def only) compatible with PCs, PSP and iTunes.
Tech specs will enjoy a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video (2.35:1) and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround tracks (48kHz/24-bit) in both English and Hindi.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.99.
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New Sony WiFi Blu-ray Player on the Way
Sony Electronics has announced that they will bring two new Blu-ray Disc players - the BDP-S360 and BDP-S560 - to consumers this May. Both players will support 1080p24 video output, be BD-Live capable, and support decoding and streaming of both Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio sound formats.
Both decks will also support Sony's Precision Drive Technology, which helps stabilize warped or scratched discs during playback, as well as Sony's Precision Cinema HD Upscale technology to upconvert standard definition media to near-HD quality.
The Sony BDP-S560 will benefit by gaining WiFi capabilities, a first for a Sony standalone player. It will be able to connect wirelessly to most (A/B/G/N) wireless networks, as well as feature WiFi Protected Set-up and DLNA connection software for easy connection and interface with home routers and other DLNA devices.
Both players will be available in May, the BDP-S360 for $300 and the BDP-S560 for $350.
Additionally, Sony will bring to Blu-ray home theater systems, the BDV-E300 and BDV-E500W which will feature similar specs to the BDP-S360. Both will feature Sony's S-AIR wireless surround sound speakers and be fully BD-Live capable. They will be available in June, the BDV-E300 for $600 and the BDV-E500W for $800.
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Last Chance Harvey Coming to Blu-ray
Last Chance Harvey Coming to Blu-ray
Posted March 3, 2009 08:26 AM by Josh Dreuth
Anchor Bay Entertainment Anchor Bay Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring the Dustin Hoffman and Emma Thompson romantic comedy 'Last Chance Harvey' to Blu-ray on May 5th, day-and-date with the DVD release. Video will be presented in 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* Audio commentary with writer/director Joel Hopkins and Hoffman and Thompson
* An Unconventional Love Story - The Making of Last Chance Harvey
* BD-Live
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Fox Double Dips 'Dodgeball' with Rated Blu-ray
In a rare double dip for the studio, Fox has announced it will re-issue 'Dodgeball' on Blu-ray this May in a "Rated" version.
The $100 million-grossing Ben Stiller hit, which Fox previously released on Blu-ray in 2007 in its unrated form, will debut a separate stand-alone version on May 12, featuring the film's PG-13 theatrical cut.
Only basic tech specs have been confirmed, including 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and an English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround soundtrack.
There's no word yet on bonus features (if any), but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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'Wrestler' Coming to Blu-ray
Fox Home Entertainment has announced a late-April Blu-ray release for 'The Wrestler.'
Featuring the career resurrection of Mickey Rourke (who snagged a Best Actor nom and numerous critics awards for his performance), Fox will debut the Darren Aronofsky-directed drama on Blu-ray April 21, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and an English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround soundtrack.
There's no word yet on bonus features, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.99.
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Road to the Superbowl Coming to Blu-ray
Warner Home Video has announced that they will bring 'NFL: Road to Super Bowl XLIII: Pittsburgh Steelers' to Blu-ray on June 2nd, day-and-date with the DVD release. This four-disc set will feature the Super Bowl and the three games leading up to it. Technical specs have not been announced at this time.
Special features have also not been detailed at this time, but the disc-by-disc breakdown is as follows:
Disc 1: Week 15 – Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Baltimore Ravens
Disc 2: AFC Divisional Playoffs – San Diego Chargers vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Disc 3: AFC Championship Game – Baltimore Ravens vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Disc 4: Super Bowl XLIII – Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Arizona Cardinals
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B.I.G. Coming to Blu-ray this April in 'Notorious'
The Biggie biopic 'Notorious' is headed to Blu-ray, with Fox setting a late-April date for the musical drama.
Profiling the life and times of the late rap mogul Notorious B.I.G., 'Notorious' will receive its Blu-ray debut on April 21, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Tech specs will enjoy a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and an English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround soundtrack.
The studio has yet to reveal any bonus features, though it is listed as a two-disc set. Whether the second disc will be a Digital Copy of the film or contain supplements is unknown, but as always, watch this space.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.99.
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Fox Bringing "Bride Wars' to Blu-ray
The 'Bride Wars' are coming to Blu-ray, with Fox setting a late-April date for the romantic comedy.
Starring Kate Hudson and recent Oscar nominee Anne Hathaway as brides battling over the same wedding day, 'Bride Wars' grossed a respectable $55 million during its domestic theatrical run earlier this year.
Fox will debut the comedy on Blu-ray April 28 as one of its new 3-disc combo sets, featuring a Blu-ray, standard DVD and Digital Copy of the film.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and an English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround soundtrack.
The studio has yet to reveal any bonus features, but we expect final details in the days ahead.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.99.
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Toke Up with 'Weeds: Season Four' on Blu-ray this June
Lionsgate has announced an early-June arrival for the fourth season of the Emmy-winning Showtime series, 'Weeds.'.
Following on the heels of previous next-gen releases of all three seasons of the hit show, Lionsgate will bring 'Weeds: Season Four' to Blu-ray on June 2, day-and-date with the standard DVD. (The Mary-Louise Parker "pot" comedy is currently the only TV series to enjoy all of its seasons available on high-def.)
Tech specs for 'Season Four' include 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and uncompressed PCM 7.1 Surround audio.
Among the bonus features are commentaries with cast and crew, a new making-of featurette, and gag reel.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray are picture-in-picture track versions of the cast & crew commentaries.
As with previous Blu-ray season sets of 'Weeds,' Lionsgate has set a suggested retail price of $39.99 for the 'Season Four' Blu-ray.
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HBO to Release 'John Adams' on Blu-ray this June
HBO has is bringing the Emmy-winning mini-series 'John Adams' to Blu-ray as a three-disc set this June.
Starring Paul Giamatti and Laura Linney in one of the most acclaimed mini-series of all time, HBO (via Warner Home Video) will debut the complete presentation on Blu-ray June 16 (trailing a previous DVD release).
Tech specs will see three BD-50 dual-layer discs, with 1080p video (1.78:1) and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
There are only two extras announced thus far, "Facts are Stubborn Things" and "Who's Who in History," though no info on what they actually contain. We'll keep you posted of any further updates.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray set has been pegged at $79.95
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'Possession' Coming to Blu-ray
Fox Home Entertainment has announced it is bringing 'Possession' to Blu-ray in mid-May.
Following a blink-or-you'll-miss-it theatrical release, the dark romantic thriller starring Sarah Michelle Gellar (who just can't seem to land a box office hit these days) will make a Blu-ray debut on May 12 day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Tech specs will see a BD-25 single-layer disc with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track (48kHz/24-bit).
There are no announced extras as of yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.99.
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MGM to Roll Out 'Spaceballs' on Blu-ray this June
'Spaceballs' is coming to Blu-ray, with MGM setting a mid-June arrival for the Mel Brooks comedy classic.
One of the first (and best) of the 'Star Wars' parodies, 'Spaceballs' has earned a huge cult following over the past twenty years, and remains one of MGM's biggest catalog hits.
The studio, via Fox Home Entertainment, will debut the film on Blu-ray June 16 (MGM previously released a special edition DVD in 2002).
Tech specs will see 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 (1.85:1) and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
There is no word yet on confirmed supplements, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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'Mad Men: Season Two' Coming to Blu-ray
In an early alert from retailers. Lionsgate is planning an early-July Blu-ray bow for 'Mad Men: Season Two.'
Following the high-def success of the show's first season, Lionsgate will release the second Blu-ray go-round for the insanely-acclaimed, Emmy-gobbling AMC series on July 7.
Tech specs will see 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 (1.85:1) and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround tracks on each episode.
We haven't received word yet on the set's extras, but watch for further details in the days ahead.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $49.99.
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HBO Sets New Date, Specs for 'Generation Kill' Blu-ray
After a delay of over six months, HBO Home Video has set a new June Blu-ray date for 'Generation Kill' and added multiple exclusive bonus features.
Based on the memoirs of a Rolling Stone reporter who documented the first days of the invasion of Iraq, 'Generation Kill' was originally set for a December 16, day-and-date Blu-ray release, but was then unceremoniously yanked from HBO's schedule.
Now, the studio (via Warner Home Video) has confirmed a June 16th release date.
Tech specs will see the complete mini-series presented in 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video with DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround tracks.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray are three interactive text-and-graphics functions, "Military Glossary," "Chain of Command Chart" and "Mission Maps."
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $79.98.
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The Wrestler Blu-ray Gets Detailed
20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has announced the technical specs and special features for the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'The Wrestler', which is due to hit store shelves on April 21st. Video will be presented in 2.35:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* Within the Ring featurette
* Wrestler Round Table
* The Wrestler Music Video – Written and Performed by Bruce Springsteen
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Blu-ray Sales on the Rise in Japan
According to a recent report from GfK Marketing Services Japan Ltd (GfK Japan), sales of Blu-ray Disc recorders increased by over 800% last year in Japan. In 2007, only 160,000 Blu-ray Disc recorders were sold in the country, but that number jumped to 1.34 Million units in 2008, representing a huge uptake in adoption of the high definition format.
The overall optical disc market decreased by 1%, but DVD recorders dipped by 26% as the format gives up ground to Blu-ray. Last year, Blu-ray recorders represented 37% of all optical recorder sales (53% of revenue), and that number is expected to grow substantially this year.
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Cinema Guild Prepares for Blu-ray Releases
The Cinema Guild has announced that they recently started a Home Video division and will soon begin to release Blu-ray movies, some from the New Yorker Home Video line. A leading distributor of documentary, foreign and independent film, The Cinema Guild was founded by over 40 years ago by award-winning producers Philip and Mary-Ann Hobel.
Some upcoming DVD releases (which will hopefully see Blu-ray release as well) include:
* Christian Petzold's “Yella”
* Alexander Sokurov's “Alexandra”
* Ellen Kuras's “The Betrayal” – 2009 Academy Award nominee for Best Documentary Feature
* Jia Zhang'ke's “24 City”
* Christian Petzold's “Jerichow”
* Agnes Varda's “The Beaches of Agnes”
* “The Order of Myths” – Independent Spirit Award winner
* “The Unforeseen” – Independent Spirit Award winner
* “Primo Levi's Journey”
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Season One and Two of Lost Dated for June
Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'Lost: The Complete First Season' and 'Lost: The Complete 2nd Season: The Extended Experience' to Blu-ray on June 16th. Video will be presented in 1080p AVC accompanied by PCM 5.1 soundtracks. While there have been no Blu-ray exclusive features announced at this time, all extras from the previous DVD releases will be included.
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Sling Blade for June 17th
Walt Disney Studios Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'Sling Blade' to Blu-ray on June 16th. Technical specs have not been revealed at this time, but you can expect to see 1080p AVC video accompanied by an uncompressed or lossless audio track.
Extras for this release include:
* Sling BladeAudio commentary with Billy Bob Thornton
* Profile of Billy Bob Thornton
* Roundtable discussion with Billy Bob Thornton, Dwight Yoakam, Mickey Jones, and David Bushell
* Mr. Thornton Goes to Hollywood featurette
* A Conversation with Billy Bob Thornton and Rober Duvall
* More
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Miracle for June 17th
Walt Disney Studios Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'Miracle' to Blu-ray on June 16th. Technical specs have not been revealed at this time, but you can expect to see 1080p AVC video accompanied by an uncompressed or lossless audio track.
Extras for this release include:
# Audio commentary with director Gavin O'Connor, director of photography Dan Stoloff and editor John Gilroy
# Miracle ESPN Roundtable with Linda Cohn
# Outtakes
# Making of Miracle featurette
# From Hockey to Hollywood: The Actors' Journeys
# The Sound of Miracle
# First Impressions: Herb Brooks with Kurt Russell and the Filmmakers
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The Greatest Game Ever Played for June 17th
Walt Disney Studios Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'The Greatest Game Ever Played' to Blu-ray on June 16th. Technical specs have not been revealed at this time, but you can expect to see 1080p AVC video accompanied by an uncompressed or lossless audio track.
Extras for this release include:
# Audio commentary with Bill Paxton and Mark Frost
# A View from the Gallery: On the Set of The Greatest Game Ever Played
# Two Legends and the Greatest Game
# From Caddy to Champion: Francis Ouimet
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Fox Goes Direct-to-Blu with 'Dr. Doolittle' Sequel
Fox Home Entertainment has announced its latest direct-to-Blu premiere release, the canine comedy 'Dr. Doolittle: Million Dollar Mutts.'
In the grand tradition of such video premiere franchises as the 'Air Bud' and 'Beethoven' series, this second sequel to the theatrical hit 'Dr. Doolittle' will feature none of the original cast and a story that bears little resemblance to the original hit.
Fox has announced a May 19 release for the film, which will arrive as a Blu-ray/DVD two-disc combo.
The Blu-ray disc will present the feature film in 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video with a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
There are no supplements announced as yet, but we're sure they'll be epic in nature. We'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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'Fatal Attraction' to Slice Up Blu-ray this June
It's the Blu-ray that will not be ignored: Paramount Home Entertainment has announced an early-June high-def release of 'Fatal Attraction.'
The pop culture sensation that made Glenn Close, butcher knives, and bunny boiling trendy, Paramount will debut the box office smash on Blu-ray June 9.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p video (1.85:1) and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras will match the previous DVD release, including audio commentary with director Adrian Lyne, a trio of featurettes ("Forever Fatal," "Social Attraction," "Visual Attraction"), an alternate ending and rehearsal footage.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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Indecent Proposal Announced
Paramount Paramount Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring Woody Harrelson and Demi Moore's 'Indecent Proposal' to Blu-ray on June 9th. For the film, video will be presented in 1.85:1 1080p AVC accompanied by 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtracks.
No special features have been announced for 'Indecent Proposal' at this time.
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Grumpy Old Men Coming to Blu-ray
Warner Home Video has announced that they will bring the Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau comedy 'Grumpy Old Men' to Blu-ray on July 7th. Technical specs have not announced at this time, though you can expect the typical 1080p VC-1 and Dolby TrueHD treatment from the studio. Additionally, technical specs have yet to be announced, though we do know there will be a digital copy included.
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Ridley Scott Talks Blu-ray
In anticipation of the upcoming UK Blu-ray release of 'Body of Lies', which is due to hit store shelves on March 30th, director Ridley Scott sat down to talk about what he expects viewers to gain from buying the Blu-ray version of his film over the DVD. What he promises viewers is "vision", a clarity in the picture not available on the DVD.
To watch a clip of the interview, click on the link below:
http://domain1297528.sites.fasthosts.com/BodyOfLies/Ridley_BluRay_Window.wmv (http://domain1297528.sites.fasthosts.com/BodyOfLies/Ridley_BluRay_Window.wmv)
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'Splinter' to Scare Up April Blu-ray Release
Magnolia Home Entertainment has announced a mid-April Blu-ray release for the indie horror film 'Splinter.'
The tale of a couple who must fight for survival when confronted by a parasitic creature who uses humans for hosts, 'Splinter' only received a limited release in the United States. Magnolia will debut the Blu-ray on April 14, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
There's no word on tech or supplement specs as of yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $26.98.
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The Myth Coming to Blu-ray in the UK
Cine Asia has announced that they will bring Jackie Chan's multi-period, action-comedy 'The Myth' to Blu-ray on May 4th, day-and-date with the DVD release. Technical specs have not been announced at this time, though you can expect a 1080p video transfer along with a DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* Making of
featurette
* Trailer
* Music videos gallery
* Interviews
with Jackie Chan,
Tony Leung Ka Fai,
Kim Hee Seon,
Mallika Sherawat,
Stanley Tong
, Sun Zhou and
Choi Min Soo
* Deleted scenes
* Lost scenes
* Behind the scenes (11 featurettes)
* Just For Laughs
* HK Premiere
* Easter Egg - Cannes Festival
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Eagle Rock Announced 'Styx' for April
Eagle Rock Home Entertainment have announced that they will bring 'Styx - One With Everything' to Blu-ray on April 21st. The release will see the benefit of a high definition video transfer along with a high fidelity soundtrack.
The track listing are:
1. Blue Collar Man (Long Nights)
2. Lorelei
3. One With Everything
4. It Don't Make Sense (You Can't Make Peace)
5. I Am The Walrus
6. Just Be
7. Everything All The Time
8. Crystal Ball
9. Miss America
10. Criminal Mind
11. Too Much Time On My Hands
12. Boat On The River
13. I Don't Need No Doctor
14. The Styx/CYO Medley
15. Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man)
16. Renegade
Christmas songs:
17. All I Want
18. Ring The Bells
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Eagle Rock Announced 'Gary Moore And Friends: One Night In Dublin - A Tribute To Phil Lynott' for April
Eagle Rock Home Entertainment have announced that they will bring 'Gary Moore And Friends: One Night In Dublin - A Tribute To Phil Lynott' to Blu-ray on April 21st. The release will see the benefit of a high definition video transfer along with a high fidelity soundtrack.
The track listing are:
1. Walking By Myself
2. Jailbreak
3. Don't Believe A Word
4. Emerald (with Brian Robertson)
5. Still In Love With You (with Brian Robertson)
6. Black Rose (with Scott Gorham)
7. Cowboy Song (with Scott Gorham)
8. The Boys Are Back In Town (with Scott Gorham)
9. Whiskey In The Jar (with Eric Bell)
10. Old Town/Parisienne Walkways
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MGM Sets 'Valkyrie' for Blu-ray Flight this May
MGM is bringing the controversial WWII thriller 'Valkyrie' to Blu-ray in mid-May.
Defying months of bad buzz and mixed critical reaction, the Tom Cruise-as-a-Nazi-with-an-American-accent thriller turned in a more-than-respectable worldwide gross of nearly $200 million.
MGM (via Fox Home Entertainment) will debut the Blu-ray on May 19, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video (2.35:1) and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
Extras include two audio commentaries (with Tom Cruise, director Bryan Singer and co-screenwriter Christopher McQuarrie, and McQuarrie and co-screenwriter Nathan Alexander), and a patch of six featurettes ("The Journey to Valkyrie," "The Road to Resistance: A Visual Guide," "The African Front Sequence," "Taking to the Air," "Recreating Berlin," "92nd Street Y: Reel Pieces with Tom Cruise and Bryan Singer," "The Valkyrie Legacy").
Included on a second, standard DVD is a Digital Copy of the film, compatible with PCs, PSP and iTunes.
Suggested retail price for each Blu-ray has been set at $39.99.
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Defiance Coming to Blu-ray in UK
Momentum Pictures has announced that they will bring the Daniel Craig film 'Defiance' to Blu-ray on May 18th, day-and-date with the DVD release. Technical specs have not been released at this time, but previous releases from the studio have received 1080p VC-1 and DTS-HD Master Audio treatment.
Extras for this release include:
* Return to the Forest: The Making of Defiance
* Scoring Defiance (BD Exclusive)
* Children of the Otriad (BD Exclusive)
* Bielski Partisan Photo Gallery (as photographed by Director Ed Zwick) (BD Exclusive)
* Directors commentary
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X-Men Trilogy Coming to the UK on Blu-ray
20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'The X-Men Trilogy Blu-Ray Collection' to Blu-ray in the UK on April 20th. Both technical specs (1080p AVC video accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack) and special features appear to be identical to the previously announced US version of this release.
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Bride Wars Detailed for Blu-ray
20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has announced the technical specs and special features for the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'Bride Wars', which is due to hit store shelves on April 28th, day-and-date with the DVD release. This three-disc set, which will be presented in 1.85:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack, will come with a digital and DVD copy of the film.
Extras for this release include:
* Something Old, Something New and What That's Gonna Cost You – Pop-Up Wedding Cost Calculator
* Seven Deleted Scenes Including Alternate Opening
* Cast Improvisations
* Fox Movie Channel Presents: In Character with Kate Hudson
* Fox Movie Channel Presents: In Character with Anne Hathaway
* Featurettes
o Meet Me at the Plaza
o The Perfect White Dress – Vera Wang
o Caught on Tape
+ Man Den
+ Maid of Honor
+ Amanda-Cam
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Woodstock Blu-ray Pushed Up to June Release
Warner Home Video has announced that they have bumped up the release date of 'Woodstock: 3 Days of Peace & Music Directors Cut 40th Anniversary Ultimate Collectors Edition' to June 9th, day-and-date with the DVD release. This box set will feature two hours extra hours of performances from 13 groups who played at the legendary festival, but never made it onto the film, along with a reprint of Life magazine commemorative issue, a lucite lenticular display of festival photos, assorted memorabilia and an iron-on patch with the classic bird-and-guitar Woodstock emblem.
Technical specs have not been announced at this time, but you can expect a 1080p VC-1 video presentation along with a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack.
The disc-by-disc breakdown includes:
* Disc One Film (Director's Cut), Part 1 128:38 min
* The Museum at BethelWoods: The Story of the Sixties & Woodstock
Disc Two
* Film (Director's Cut), Part 2 95:34 min
Disc Three
* Woodstock: Untold Stories 18 Performances as never before seen
* Woodstock: From Festival to Feature Interviews of the sights and sounds of the 3 day event, from concert goers, promoters, crew and musicians
Exclusive to the Blu-ray release will be:
* Customize Your Own WoodstockPlaylist (from the 18 bonus performances)
o This feature allows you to customize your own personal jukebox playlist from more than a dozen live Woodstock performances as never been seen.
* BD-Live features include MediaCenter, My WB Commentary, & Live Community Screening
o MediaCenteris a hub for trailers, features and content
+ You can get sneak peeks of upcoming Warner Bros. films, and rate trailers
+ You can access to Exclusive Content such as interviews, featurettes, and more only seen through WB BD-Live
+ You can access Photo Galleries and other special features
o Live Community Screenings allow you to send invitations to fans and friends across the country for virtual screenings at a specified time and chat online with each other as the movie plays on each person's Blu-ray player. You can host your own Live Community Screening with your buddy list or participate in a WB hosted Warner Bros. BD-Live community event
o My WB Commentary lets you record and post a Picture-in-Picture commentary right over the film, then share it and rate it. Using a web-camera, you can record your own comments and play them back as a Picture-in-Picture feature over the film scene you have chosen and share it with your friends or the entire Warner Bros. BD-Live Community
Additional info:
* Band Roster (22 Bands) Arlo Guthrie
* Canned Heat
* Country Joe & the Fish
* Country Joe McDonald
* Creedence Clearwater Revival
* Crosby, Stills, NashGrateful Dead Janis Joplin Jefferson Airplane
* Jimi Hendrix
* Joan Baez
* Joe Cocker
* John Sebastian
* Johnny Winter
* Mountain
* Paul Butterfield Blues Band
* Richie Havens
* Santana
* Sha-Na-Na
* Sly & The Family Stone
* Ten Years After
* The Who
18 Bonus Performances
* Joan Baez “One Day at a Time”
* Country Joe McDonald “Flying High”
* Santana “Evil Ways”
* Canned Heat “I'm Her Man” and “On the Road Again”
* Mountain “Beside the Sea” and “Southbound Train”
* Grateful Dead “Turn On Your Love Light”
* Creedence Clearwater Revival “Born on the Bayou”, “I've Put a Spell on You” and “Keep on Chooglin'”
* The Who “We're Not Going To Take It” and “My Generation”
* Jefferson Airplane “3/5 of a Mile in 10 Seconds”
* Joe Cocker “Something's Coming On”
* Johnny Winter “Mean Town Blues”
* Paul Butterfield “Morning Sunrise”
* Sha Na Na “Teen Angel”
Woodstock: From Festival to Film
* The Camera: The Éclair NPR was the best camera around in 1969; Michael Wadleigh talks about why the Éclair was the right camera for this film.
* 365,000 Feet of Film: The stories of how Dale Bell and his crew begged, borrowed and stole just enough film to document the festival.
* Shooting Stage: Those up-close shots of performers didn't just happen by magic; see how Wadleigh and his cameramen got those up close and personal shots of the performers.
* The Line Up: The Who, Sha Na Na, Santana, Ten Years After, Jefferson Airplane and many more; how did all these bands get on the roster for the festival of a life time?
* Holding the Negative Hostage: What does a filmmaker do when Technicolor is sending a copy of your negative to the studio without your permission? Well, you lock up the film and hire a lawyer.
* Announcements: “Don't take the brown acid” or maybe it was green. We'll hear about all the strange and informative announcements heard during those three days of peace, love and enlightenment.
* Suits VS. Longhairs: The clash between the hippie filmmakers and the Warner executives who didn't understand what this film meant.
* Documenting History: Find out from Michael Wadleigh and Dale Bell, along with filmmakers, where the idea of capturing this event on film came from.
* Woodstock: The Journey: Some came by car, others by truck, a few came by helicopter but most walked to the most famous festival in history.
* Pre-Production: We'll find out how this production got off the ground and meet the members of the crew that made it happen.
* Production: How many cameras were used? How much film did they go through? Did anyone sleep? All these questions and more will be answered here as we explore how Woodstock was captured on film.
* Synchronization: How do you sync all this material with out any slates? No slate, no problem. With the help of an upright Moviola, Dale Bell, Michael Wadleigh, Eddie Kramer and the editors were able to make magic from miles of tape and film.
* The Crowd: Half a million people of all colors, shapes, sizes, ages and sexes attended this historical event. We'll hear stories about the number of people and how they all coexisted for three days with only minor incidents.
* No Rain! No Rain!: Everyone talks about the rain at this event as if it were a character. It was. It set the tone, provided moments of danger, fun and disgust.
* 3 Days in a Truck: Eddie Kramer heard some of the most amazing performances as he recorded this historic event. But during those three days of peace, love and music, he didn't get to see any performances because he was stuck in a truck.
* WoodstockEffect: The film, the event and the album catapulted many musicians into the limelight, changing their lives forever.
* Living up to Idealism
* World's Longest Optical
* Critical Acclaim
* Courtesy of The Museum at BethelWoods: The Hog Farm Commune
* Hugh Hefner and Michael Wadleigh: The WoodstockConnection
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MGM Adds 'Golden Gun,' 'License to Kill' to Blu-ray Bond Library
MGM has announced two new additions to its growing James Bond Blu-ray collection, setting a mid-May arrival for 'License to Kill' and 'The Man with the Golden Gun.'
Though largely considered two of the weaker entries in the 007 canon, MGM (via Fox Home Entertainment) will give both the high-def makeover on May 12.
Final specs are not yet in, but if past Bond Blu-ray titles are any indication, look for remastered 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video, DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround tracks, and all of the extras found on previous DVD editions.
There's still no word yet if MGM/Fox will also be bundling 'License to Kill' and 'The Man with the Golden Gun' in a James Bond box set (as with previous Blu-ray releases), but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for each Bond title has been set at $34.95.
Blu-Ray Wave 3 cover art is up and out!
(http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i152/ob120485/MEHOBBYDVD/51kc9PFJsjL_SS500_.jpg) (http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i152/ob120485/MEHOBBYDVD/517WTwfjDSL_SS500_.jpg)
`Quantum` may join LTK and TMWTGG for fourth Blu-Ray box set
(http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i152/ob120485/MEHOBBYDVD/quantum_blu.jpg)
"Quantum of Solace" may be joining the forthcoming Blu-Ray releases of "The Man With The Golden Gun" (1973) and "Licence To Kill" (1989) in the fourth Triple Pack box-set.
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ThinkFilm to Bring 'Incendiary' to Blu-ray
Blu-ray Newcomer ThinkFilm has announced an early-May Blu-ray release for the political thriller 'Incendiary.'
Marking the indie label's first foray into Blu-ray, 'Incendiary' stars Ewan McGregor and Michelle Williams in a dramatic thriller about a terrorist bombing in London.
Receiving only a limited release in the United States, ThinkFilm will debut the pic on Blu-ray May 5, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
There are no confirmed tech or supplement specs as of yet, but we'll keep you posted on this and all future ThinkFilm releases.
Suggested retail price for each Blu-ray has been set at $35.98.
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'24' Headed to Blu-ray
Tick tock, tick tock: the smash Fox series '24' is at last hitting high-def, with a mid-May Blu-ray release for the show's seventh and latest season.
As first reported by TV Shows on DVD, Fox had been planning a Blu-ray release for '24: Season 7' on May 19 (day-and-date with the standard DVD). The studio has now confirmed the date with retailers, marking the first appearance of the hit Kiefer Sutherland series on high-def.
Fox has yet to issue any tech or supplement specs at this early date, but we expect the full 1080p and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround treatment, plus extensive extras. We'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $69.95.
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Panasonic Adds Three Blu-Ray Players To Product Lineup
Panasonic is introducing three new Blu-Ray players to their lineup.
The new offering sinclude: The DMP-BD60 (SRP: $299.95), DMP-BD80 (SRP: $399.95), and DMP-BD70V (SRP: $399.95). These three players have been engineered to reduce power consumption. They also include VIERA Cast’s internet connection for access to Amazon’s video selection, Google’s Picasa and other popular online Blu-Ray applications, and the VIERA Link function that allows users to control all AV components with a single remote.
The video quality is augmented by the PHL Reference Chroma Processor Plus to produce picture quality that is faithful to the original film. They all include decoders for Dolby(R) Digital Plus, Dolby(R) TrueHD, and DTS-HD Master Audio Essential. The BD70V is the first player on the market to include a deck for VHS support. It can also play CDs, DVDs and Blu-Ray discs, and can up-convert all video to 1080p.
The BD80 is a 7.1 channel player, allowing for true 7.1 surround sound. It also allows for a playback window with video information to be displayed along with the currently playing disc. All three players use 96kHz surround remastering, to enhance the audio quality of CDs and other sources. These three Blu-Ray players from Panasonic will be available this April.
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Fox to Unleash 'Predator 2' on Blu this May
Attention, 'Predator' fans: he's back in town with a few days to kill, with Fox annoucing an early-June Blu-ray release for the franchise's first sequel.
Starring Danny Glover (subbing for an absent Arnold Schwarzenegger) and a whole new batch of predators who are even more pissed off and in the big city, 'Predator 2' will hit Blu-ray on June 9.
This follows Fox's previous Blu-ray releases of the original 'Predator,' as well as the two 'Alien vs. Predator' spin-off films.
Tech specs for 'Predator 2' will see a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video (1.85:1) and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround audio.
There's no word yet on supplements, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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'The Siege' to Take Blu-ray this June
Fox Home Entertainment has announced its latest catalog title for Blu-ray, setting an early-June date for the heist drama 'The Siege.'
Starring Denzel Washington, Bruce Willis, and Annette Bening, the Ed Zwick-directed actioner will make its Blu-ray debut on June 9.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video (1.85:1) and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround.
There's no word yet on supplements, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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Warner Prepping 'Gone with the Wind,' 'Wizard of Oz' Blu-rays for 2009
There's no date yet, but Warner has confirmed plans to bring the classics 'Gone with the Wind' and 'The Wizard of Oz' to Blu-ray in 2009.
Released previously in deluxe, multi-disc DVD special editions, Warner had first revealed that plans were underway for deluxe Blu-ray editions early last year.
The studio has now confirmed to retailers that 'Gone With the Wind: 70th Anniversary Ultimate Collector's Edition' and 'The Wizard of Oz: 70th Anniversary Ultimate Collector's Edition' will receive extensive high-def releases by the end of the year.
There are no tech or supplement specs as of yet, but expectations are high for restored video and audio, and extensive supplements.
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P Coming to Blu-ray
Commercial Films has announced that they will bring Paul Spurrier's horror film 'P' to Blu-ray on April 1st as a Limited Edition release. Recently remasted under the director's supervision, the film will be presented in 1080p video accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby Digital soundtrack.
A note from the director about this release:
I was always surprised and delighted by the positive reception that the film received internationally both at festivals and in commercial release. The film was originally intended as a film for Thai audiences, and it is ironic that Thailand is one of the few countries where the film has been unavailable. I am a big fan of the Blu Ray format. It must always be disappointing for directors to shoot a film on 35mm, to enjoy the detail and visual quality on the cinema screen, and then to see it as many will see it on a small TV screen playing from a compressed DVD. Blu Ray is the closest thing to having cinema quality presentation in your home. Another big advantage is that you don't have difficulties of PAL vs. NTSC format. By producing in 24p, (exactly the format all films are originally shot) you not only get back to the original film speed and quality, but also follow a standard that all players around the world support. And of course, the other big advantage is the increased capacity of a Blu Ray disc. You can pack so much more onto it. So I was delighted to have the opportunity to put ‘P' on Blu Ray, and to learn about the authoring process. It wasn't easy, and took me over two months. Anyone who frequents Blu Ray authoring webforums will have become bored with my frantic cries for technical help. Okay, the menus may not be as whizzy as the latest Hollywood titles, but I think the quality of the image and sound is impressive. I spent a lot of time on the extra features. The production of the commentary/scrapbook involved digging out the storyboards, behind-the-scenes footage, sifting through tapes of outtakes, and pulling them together in a way that I hope gives a real inside view of the crazy process that was involved in this film.
Extras for this release include:
* Director's Scrapbook
* Storyboards
* Outtakes
* Deleted scenes
* Behind-the-scenes
* Facts
* Director's commentary
* Stills
Currently, the only place to purchase the film (which is being released in Thailand as a region-free release) is directly from company.
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Warner Permanently Discounts Blu-ray Titles
For the first time, Warner Home Video will permanently discount 16 of their Blu-ray titles by 43% to a new SRP of $16.99. With retailers typically discounting off SRP by as much as 40%, you can expect to be able to grab these titles for $10-12). The entire list of titles, which will be repriced on April 7th, has not been fully detailed, but what we do know we have listed below:
* Scooby-Doo: The Movie
* Battle of the Bulge
* Body Heat
* Eyes Wide Shut: Special Edition
* Lethal Weapon
* The Omega Man
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Million Dollar Mutts Coming to Blu-ray, Extra's announced
20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring the direct-to-video film 'Dr. Dolittle: Million Dollar Mutts' to Blu-ray on May 19th, day-and-date with the DVD release. The title, which will come with both the Blu-ray and DVD of the film, will be presented in 1.85:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* Tiffany's Tricked Out Cell Phone featurette
* No Business Like Show Business featurette
* Star Tours: Dolittle Style featurette
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Waltz with Bashir Announced for UK Blu-ray Release
Artificial Eye has announced that they will bring the Academy Awards-nominated film 'Waltz with Bashir' to Blu-ray in the UK on March 30th, day-and-date with the DVD release. This foreign language film will be presented in 1080p video accompanied by a DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* Interview with director Ari Folman
* ‘Making of' documentary (70 minutes)
* Deleted scenes
* Theatrical trailers
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More Grey's Anatomy Heading to Blu-ray
Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'Grey Anatomy: The Complete Fifth Season' to Blu-ray on September 15th, day-and-date with the DVD release. No technical specs have been announced at this time, but the previous season's release utilized 1080p AVC video accompanied by a 5.1 PCM soundtrack.
No special features have been announced at this time.
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Underworld: Rise of the Lycans Announced for Blu-ray
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'Underworld: Rise of the Lycans' to Blu-ray on May 12th, day-and-date with the DVD release. Video will be presented in 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack. The release will also include a digital copy of the film for PC, Mac, and PSP.
Extras for this release include:
* Cinechat: Send on-screen instant messages to your friends around the world while you watch the movie together
* Behind the Castle Walls: Picture-in-Picture
* “Lycanthropes Around the World” Interactive Map: Learn about werewolf sightings that span throughout the past five centuries
* BD-Live: Access Exclusive Content and Downloads
* "Underworld: Rise of the Lycans - From Script to Screen" Featurette
* "The Origin of the Feud" Featurette
* "Re-Creating the Dark Ages - The Look of Underworld: Rise of the Lycans" Featurette
* Music Video: "Deathclub" By William Control
* Filmmakers' Commentary
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Hotel for Dogs Coming to Blu-ray
DreamWorks in conjunction with Paramount Home Entertainment have announced that they will bring 'Hotel for Dogs' to Blu-ray on April 28th, day-and-date with the DVD release. Technical specs have yet to be announced at this time, though you can expect a 1080p AVC video presentation accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack.
Special features have not been announced at this time.
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Monster's Inc and Rounders Delayed (Updated)
Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment has revealed that they are delaying the upcoming Blu-ray releases of both 'Monster's Inc' and 'Rounders: 10th Anniversary Edition'. When asked for comment, studio representatives confirmed the delay of 'Rounders', but could provide no new release date. 'Monster's Inc.' has been delayed until November, likely to coincide with the Blu-ray release of 'Up'.
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'Sky Crawlers' to Invade Blu-ray this May
The Japanese sci-fi hit 'The Sky Crawlers' is coming to high-def, with Sony setting a late-May Blu-ray arrival for the cult favorite.
Telling the tale of an alternate future where forever-young teens must rise against their adult oppressors, the Mamoru Oshii-directed animated fantasy will arrive Stateside on May 26, day-and-date on Blu-ray and DVD.
Extras include only a pair of featurettes ("Animation Research for The Sky Crawlers," "The Sound Design and Animation of The Sky Crawlers").
Exclusive to the Blu-ray will be another featurette, "Sky's the Limit: An Interview with Director Mamoru Oshii," as well as BD-Live connectivity.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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BFI Brings More Blu-ray to the UK
The British Film Institute (BFI) has announced that they will bring Pier Paolo Pasolini's 'The Decameron', 'The Canterbury Tales', and 'Arabian Nights' to Blu-ray on April 27th in the UK, day-and-date with the DVD release. Additionally, they will bring the 'Nighthawks / Strip Jack - Nighthawks 2' double feature to Blu-ray on March 30th, day-and-date with the DVD release.
Technical specs have not been announced at this time, though you can expect a 1080p video and PCM audio presentation. No special features have been announced at this time.
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An Empress and the Warriors Coming to the UK
Blu-ray Movies Cine Asia has announced that they will bring the Tony Siu-Tung Ching epic film 'An Empress and the Warriors' to Blu-ray in the UK on March 23rd, day-an-date with the DVD release. Technical specs for this release has yet to be revealed, but previous releases from the studio utilized 1080p AVC video and DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack presentations.
Extras for this release include a making-of featurette.
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Nature's Most Amazing Events Coming to Blu-ray
BBC Home Entertainment in conjunction with Warner Home Video have announced that they will bring 'Nature's Most Amazing Events' to Blu-ray on June 16th, day-and-date with the DVD release. This two disc set will feature all six episodes of the series, which will premiere on the BBC and The Discovery Channel on May 29th.
The only special feature will be 10-min making-of intros for each episode.
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Underworld Box Announced
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment have announced that they will bring the 'Underworld BD 3-pack' to Blu-ray on May 12th, which will package all three films from the trilogy, including the recently announced 'Underworld: Rise of the Lycans'.
For all releases, video will be presented in 1080p AVC accompanied by 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtracks (or their original PCM where available). Special features for the box will be the same as the individual releases.
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Batman 20th Anniversary Blu-ray Announced
Warner Home Video has announced that they will bring 'Batman: The Movie 20th Anniversary' to Blu-ray on May 19th. This digibook release appears to be identical to the first disc of the 'Batman: The Motion Picture Anthology' which was released last week, meaning a 1080p VC-1 video presentation accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack.
Special features for this release include:
* Behind the Story
o Commentary by director Tim Burton
o On the set with Bob Kane
o Legends of the DARK KNIGHT: The History of BATMAN – The BATMAN Comic Book Saga as reinvented and reinterpreted over nearly seven decades
o Shadows of the Bat: The Cinematic Saga of the DARK KNIGHT Parts 1-3:
+ The Road to GOTHAM
+ The Gathering Storm
+ The Legend Reborn
o Beyond BATMAN (Documentary Gallery):
+ Visualizing GOTHAM: The production design of BATMAN
+ Building the BATMOBILE
+ Those Wonderful Toys: The Props and Gadgets of BATMAN
+ Designing the BAT-SUIT
+ From Jack to THE JOKER
+ Nocturnal Overtures: The Music of BATMAN
* Music Videos – Three Music Videos by Prince
o Batdance
o Partyman
o Scandalous
* Extras
o BATMAN: The Heroes (Profile Galleries)
+ BATMAN
+ VICKI VALE
+ ALEXANDER KNOX
+ COMMISSIONER GORDON
+ HARVEY DENT
o Batman: The Villains (Profile Galleries)
+ THE JOKER
+ BOB THE GOON
* BATMAN: The Complete ROBIN Storyboard Sequence
* Trailer
o Theatrical trailer
* Digital Copy
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'Paul Blart' Coming to Blu-ray
Making an early announcement to retailers, Sony Pictures has announced plans to bring the sleeper 'Paul Blart: Mall Cop' to Blu-ray mid-May.
A movie the critics thought couldn't get arrested, the Kevin James-starrer defied all industry expectations to click with audiences, eventually earning over $100 million at the domestic box office.
Sony will debut the comedy on Blu-ray May 19, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
There are no tech specs or supplement details at this early date, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.95.
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Magnolia Plans The Great Buck Howard Blu-ray
In an early announcement to retailers, Magnolia Home Entertainment has revealed that they will bring the John Malkovich and Colin Hanks film 'The Great Howard Buck' to Blu-ray on July 21st, just over a month after the DVD release. As this is an early announcement, no technical specs or special features have been announced at this time.
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Criterion Announces The Seventh Seal
Criterion has announced that they will bring the 1957 classic film 'The Seventh Seal' to Blu-ray on June 16th, day-and-date with the DVD re-release. The title will be presented in 1080p video accompanied by PCM mono soundtracks.
Special features include:
* Introduction by Ingmar Bergman, recorded in 2003
* Audio commentary by Bergman expert Peter Cowie
* A new afterword to the commentary by Cowie
* Bergman Island (2006), an 83-minute documentary on Bergman by Marie Nyreröd, featuring in-depth and revealing interviews with the director
* Archival audio interview with Max von Sydow
* A 1998 tribute to Bergman by filmmaker Woody Allen
* Theatrical trailer
* Bergman 101, a selected video filmography tracing Bergman's career, narrated by Cowie
* Optional English-dubbed soundtrack
* New and improved English subtitle translation
* A booklet featuring an essay by critic Gary Giddins
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Criterion Announces Last Year at Marienbad
Criterion Criterion has announced that they will bring Alain Resnais' 'Last Year at Marienbad' to Blu-ray on June 23rd, day-and-date with the DVD release. The movie will be presented in 1080p video accompanied by PCM mono soundtracks.
Special features include:
# Director Approved Transfer
# New, restored high-definition digital transfer, supervised and approved by director Alain Resnais (with an uncompressed monaural soundtrack on the Blu-ray edition)
# New audio interview with Resnais
# New documentary on the making of Last Year at Marienbad, featuring interviews with many of Resnais' collaborators
# New video interview with film scholar Ginette Vincendeau on the history of the film and its many mysteries
# Two short documentaries by Resnais: Toute la mémoire du monde (1956) and Le chant du styrène (1958)
# Theatrical trailer
# Optional original, unrestored French soundtrack
# New and improved subtitle translation
# A booklet featuring essays by critic Mark Polizzotti and film scholar François Thomas, and Alain Robbe-Grillet's introduction to the published screenplay and comments on the film
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Extra for Hotel for Dogs Revealed
Paramount Home Entertainment has announced the technical specs and special features for the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'Hotel for Dogs', which is due to hit store shelves on April 28th, day-and-date with the DVD release. Video will be presented in 1.85:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* Commentary by Thor Freudenthal, Ewan "Jack" Leslie, Emma Roberts and Jake T. Austin
* A Home For Everyone: The Making Of Hotel For Dogs
* That's The Coolest Thing I've Ever Seen!
* K-9 Casting
* Bark On Cue!
* Deleted Scenes
* Photo Galleries
* The Pedigree Adoption Drive
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Paramount Readying 'Revolutionary Road' for Blu-ray
Paramount has announced it is bringing 'Revolutionary Road' to Blu-ray in early June.
Reuniting stars Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio on-screen for the first time since 'Titanic,' 'Revolutionary Road' was initially pegged as one of the sure bets of the 2008 Oscar season. Subsequent reviews were mixed, however, and the Sam Mendes-directed marital drama only managed a disappointing $22 million domestic gross.
Paramount will debut the Blu-ray of 'Revolutionary Road' on June 2, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video (2.35:1) and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Supplements include audio commentary with Mendes and screenwriter Justin Haythe, the featurette "Lives of Quite Desperation: The Making of Revolutionary Road," and deleted scenes.
Exclusive to the blu-ray is an additional featurette, "Richard Yates: The Wages of Truth."
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.95.
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Fox to Debut 'Garfield's Pet Force' Direct-to-Blu
That rascally animated cat is back, with Fox setting a mid-June premiere for Garfield's latest direct-to-Blu-ray adventure.
Following on the heels of its successful 'Dr. Doolittle' video premiere franchise, Fox will now bring the famous feline direct-to-Blu, setting a June 16 date for 'Garfield's Pet Force' (day-and-date with the standard DVD).
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer disc with /AVC MPEG-4 video (1.78:1) with a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
There are no supplements announced as yet, but we're sure there'll be a litter box full of goodies.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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Connected Announced for US Release
Tai Seng has announced that they will bring 'Connected' to Blu-ray on April 28th, day-and-date with the DVD release. Based on the Kim Basinger film 'Cellular', this film will be presented in 1080p video accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby Digital soundtrack. No special features have been announced at this time.
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Yes Man Announced for UK Release
Warner Home Video has announced that they will bring the Jim Carrey film 'Yes Man' to Blu-ray on April 20th in the UK, day-and-date with the DVD release. This three-disc set, featuring the Blu-ray version, a DVD version, and a digital copy, will be presented in 1080p VC-1 accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* Down Time on the Set of Yes Man: Jim Carrey improvs with the cast, crew, and Director Peyton Reed.
* Extreme Yes Man: This piece delves into all of the outrageous stunts
* Gag Reel
* Exclusive "Munchausen by Proxy" Music Videos: Five full-length music videos showcasing the musical talents of Zooey Deschanel and the Von Iva band.
o Uh-Huh
o Yes Man
o Star Spangled Banner
o Sweet Ballad
o Keystar
* Future Sounds: Munchausen by Proxy: Explore the unlikely story behind the formation of Allison's band, Munchausen By Proxy, from the real San Francisco-based band Von Iva.
* On Set with Danny Wallace: The Original Yes Man: Behind the scenes tour with author Danny Wallace as he interacts with the cast and crew (BD Exclusive)
* Yes Man Party Central with Norman Stokes: Comedian Rhys Darby gives us a tour of his apartment in full Harry Potter regalia(BD Exclusive)
* Say Yes! To Red Bull: Jim Carrey brings Method Acting to a whole new level as he chugs Red Bull. (BD Exclusive)
* Digital copy (BD Exclusive)
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Fox Reveals Anne Frank
In an early announcement to retailers, 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has revealed that they will bring 'The Diary of Anne Frank: 50th Anniversary Edition' to Blu-ray on June 16th, day-and-date with the DVD release. As this is an early announcement, no technical specs have been announced at this time. Though, you can expect Fox to utilize 1080p AVC video accompanied by a DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack for this release.
No special features have been announced at this time.
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Fox Reveals Burn Notice:Season Two
In an early announcement to retailers, 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has revealed that they will bring 'Burn Notice: Season Two' to Blu-ray on June 16th, day-and-date with the DVD release. As this is an early announcement, no technical specs have been announced at this time. Though, you can expect Fox to utilize 1080p AVC video accompanied by a DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack for this release.
No special features have been announced at this time.
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'Benjamin Button' Gets May Blu-ray Date
Paramount Pictures and the Criterion Collection have announced an early-May Blu-ray release date for 'The Curious Case or Benjamin Button.'
Starring Brad Pitt in the strange tale of a man who ages in reverse, 'The Curious Case of Benjamin Button' enjoyed strong critical notices, earned over a dozen Oscar nominations, and scored a $150 million domestic box office gross.
The worldwide hit will receive its Blu-ray debut on May 5 as a two-disc Criterion release, day-and-date with the standard DVD
Extras on the first disc include a full-length audio commentary with director David Fincher, and on disc two, a four-part documentary chronicling the entire production (presented in HD video).
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.99.
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Great White Odyssey Coming to Blu-ray
National Geographic in conjunction with Warner Home Video have announced that they will bring the shark documentary 'Great White Odyssey' to Blu-ray on July 14th, day-and-date with the DVD release. Technical specs and special features have not been announced at this time.
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BBC Announces Torchwood Season Two
BBC Home Entertainment in conjunction with Warner Home Video has announced that they will bring 'Torchwood: The Complete Second Season' to Blu-ray on July 7th, day-and-date with the DVD release. All 13 episodes will be presented in high definition and be spread across four BD-50s.
No technical specs have been announced at this time.
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Paramount's Oscar Winners/Nominees Get Blu-ray Dates
Paramount Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring the Academy Award-winning film 'The Curious Case of Benjamin Button' on May 5th, day-and-date with the DVD release. Additionally, they will bring the Academy Award-nominated films 'Revolutionary Road' and 'Defiance' to Blu-ray on June 2nd, day-and-date with the DVD release.
Technical specs have not been announced at this time, but you can expect 1080p AVC video and 5.1 Dolby TrueHD audio for these releases. Special features have not been announced at this time.
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Defiance Get Specs
Paramount Home Entertainment has announced the technical specs and special features for the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'Defiance', which is due to hit store shelves on June 2nd, day-and-date with the DVD release. For the release, video will be presented in 1080p AVC accompanied by 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtracks.
Extras for these releases include:
# Commentary by director Edward Zwick
# Defiance: Return to the Forest (HD)—Explores all aspects of production from the early stages of pre-production to shooting on location in Lithuania. Edward Zwick and his creative team discuss some of the challenges and also the rewards of adapting this well-documented historical event into a feature film.
# Bielski Partisan Survivors (HD)—Photo gallery of images taken by Edward Zwick including behind-the-scenes images and surviving members from the Bielski Otriad.
# Children of the Otriad: The Families Speak (HD)—Descendents of the Bielski family tour the film's set and relate the story of the real-life partisans along with efforts to preserve the brothers' legacy.
# Scoring Defiance (HD) —Academy Award® nominated composer James Newton Howard and violinist Joshua Bell discuss the incredible film score for Defiance. (BD Exclusive)
# Theatrical trailers (HD)
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Universal Catch-Up Title
Universal Studios Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'Cinderella Man' to Blu-ray on May 26th. The title which was previously released on the now defunct HD DVD format, is finally making it's way to Blu-ray. For the release, video will be presented in 1080p VC-1 accompanied by 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks.
Extras for the release include:
# Feature Commentary with Director Ron Howard
# Feature Commentary with Writer Akiva Goldsman
# Feature Commentary with Writer Cliff Hollingsworth
# Deleted Scenes with Optional Commentary
# The Fight Card: Casting Cinderella Man
# For the Record: A History in Boxing
# Ringside Seats
# Jim Braddock: The Friends & Family Behind The Legend
# Pre-Fight Preparations
# Lights, Camera, Action: The Fight From Every Angle
# Braddock Vs. Baer Fight Footage
# Photo Montage
# The Sound Of The Bell
# Cinderella Man Music Featurette
# The Human Face of the Depression
# Russell Crowe's Personal Journey: Becoming Jim Braddock
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Another Universal Catch-Up Title
Universal Studios Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'Field of Dreams' to Blu-ray on May 26th. The title which was previously released on the now defunct HD DVD format, is finally making it's way to Blu-ray. For the release, video will be presented in 1080p VC-1 accompanied by 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks.
Extras for the release include:
# Feature Commentary with Director Phil Alden Robinson and Director of Photography John Lindley
# Deleted Scenes with Introductions by Phil Alden Robinson
# From Father to Son: Passing Along the Pastime
# Roundtable with Kevin Costner, Bret Saberhagen, George Brett and Johnny Bench
# The Diamond in the Husks
# Galena, IL Pinch Hits for Chisholm, MN
# Field of Dreams: A Scrapbook
# Bravo Special: From Page to Screen
# Theatrical Trailer
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Universal Announces Another Catch-Up Title
Universal Studios Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'Children of Men' to Blu-ray on May 26th. The title which was previously released on the now defunct HD DVD format, is finally making it's way to Blu-ray. For the release, video will be presented in 1080p VC-1 accompanied by 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks.
Extras for the release include:
* U Control
* Deleted Scenes
* Visual Effects: Creating the Baby
* Futuristic Design
* Theo & Julian
* Under Attack
* The Possibility of Hope
* Children of Men Comments by Slavoj Zizek
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ond Wave 3 Gets Detailed
MGM Home Entertainment in conjunction with 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment have announced the technical specs and special features for the upcoming Blu-ray releases on 'License to Kill' and 'The Man With the Golden Gun', which are due to hit store shelves on May 12th. For both films, video will be presented in 1080p AVC accompanied by 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks.
Extras for these releases include:
Licence To Kill
* Audio commentary featuring director John Glen and members of the cast
* Audio commentary featuring Michael G. Wilson and members of the crew
* Declassified: MI6 Vault - deleted scenes with introductions by director John Glen
o Sharkey Arrives
o Bond and Sharkey Follow Yacht
o Bond in Hotel Room
o Cash Transaction
o Bond in Isthmus
o Bienvenidos Mis Amigos
o Bond Returns to Casino
o Bond Captured by Hong Kong Narcotics Agents
o Boat Ride
* Vignettes, Documentaries and Featurettes
o Bond ‘89
o On Set with John Glen
o On Location with Peter Lamont
o Ground Check with Corky Fornoff
o 007 Mission Control – Interactive Guide into the World of Licence to Kill
o Exotic Locations Montage
o Inside Licence to Kill – A Documentary
o Production Featurette – Behind the Scenes
o Kenworth Truck Stunt Film
o “Licence to Kill” music video performed by Gladys Knight
o “If You Asked Me To” music video performed by Patti LaBelle
o Ministry of Propaganda
+ Theatrical Archive
# How Many Times Can One Man Leave You Breathless?
# Purely…Business
* Image Database Gallery
o The Filmmakers
o Portraits
o Key West
o Mexico City
o Shots in the Night
o Sanchez's Office
o Arabesque
o Otomi
o Mexicali
o The “Lost” Promotional Campaign
o Licence to Kill Around the Globe
The Man With The Golden Gun
# Audio commentary featuring Sir Roger Moore
# Audio commentary featuring director Guy Hamilton and members of the cast and crew
# Vignettes, Documentaries and Featurettes
* The Russell Harty Show
* On Location with The Man with the Golden Gun
* Girls Fighting
* American Thrill Show Stunt Film with optional commentary
* The Road to Bond: Stunt Coordinator W. J. Milligan (audio only)
* Guy Hamilton: The Director Speaks
* 007 Mission Control – Interactive Guide into the World of The Man with the Golden Gun
* Exotic Locations Montage
* Inside The Man with the Golden Gun – An Original Documentary
* Double-O Stuntmen
* Ministry of Propaganda
o Theatrical Archive
+ Coming For Christmas
+ A Man Called Scaramanga
o TV Broadcasts
+ James Bond, On the Job
+ The Most Exciting Adventures
o Radio Communication
+ Get Ready
+ Collision Course
+ The Greatest 007 Adventure of All
# Image Database Gallery
* Portraits
* Press Conference
* Phuket
* Bangkok
* Bonding With AMC
* Dojo 007
* Aboard Scaramanga's Junk
* Hong Kong
* Pinewood
* The Golden Gun
* Around The World With 007
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S. Darko Detailed for Blu-ray
20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has announced the technical specs and special features for the upcoming direct-to-video release of 'S. Darko: A Donnie Darko Tale', which is due to hit store shelves on May 12th, day-and-date with the DVD release. Video will be presented in 1.78:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Extras for this release, which are all presented in HD, include:
* Filmmaker Commentary
* Deleted Scenes
* The Making of S. Darko
* Utah Too Much
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Seabiscuit Plays Catch-up Too
Following yesterday's announcement, Universal Studios Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'Seabiscuit' to Blu-ray. The title, which will be presented in 1080p VC-1 accompanied by 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks, will join 'Children of Men', 'Field of Dreams', and 'Cinderella Man' for release on May 26th.
This title has previously been released on the now defunct HD DVD format. Extras for this release include:
*Feature Commentary with Director Gary Ross and Filmmaker Steven Soderbergh
* Bringing the Legend to Life: The Making of Seabiscuit
* Anatomy of a Movie Moment
* Seabiscuit: Racing Through History
* Photo Finish: Jeff Bridges' On the Set Photographs
* Seabiscuit vs. War Admiral, The 1938 Match Race
* Winners' Circle: The Heroes Behind the Legend
* The True Story of Seabiscuit
* HBO First Look
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Inside Man Announced Also
Following today's announcement, Universal Studios Home Entertainment has also announced that they will bring 'Inside Man' to Blu-ray. The title, which will be presented in 1080p VC-1 accompanied by 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks, will join 'Seabiscuit', 'Children of Men', 'Field of Dreams', and 'Cinderella Man' for release on May 26th.
This title has previously been released on the now defunct HD DVD format. Extras for this release include:
# Inside Man
# Feature Commentary with Director Spike Lee
# Deleted Scenes
# The Making of Inside Man
# Number 4
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Bolt Becomes First Blu-ray to Come Out Before DVD
Today, Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment is releasing 'Bolt' on Blu-ray, two days before the DVD release. This three-disc set, which includes not only the film on Blu-ray, but also a DVD and digital copy, features a beautiful high definition transfer that will show off the true potential of your HDTV accompanied by a DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack that will rock your surround sound system.
Be sure to head out today and pick up a copy of this great Blu-ray. Disney will be using the sales data from this title to gauge if future Disney titles should be released on Blu-ray before the DVD.
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'Air Force One' to Make Blu-ray Landing this June
'Air Force One' is coming to Blu-ray, with Sony announcing an early-June release for the smash Harrison Ford thriller.
Currently atop IMDB's poll of top movie presidents, Ford will battle terrorists ("Get off my plane!") in high-def on June 2, when Sony gives the Wolfgang Petersen-directed blockbuster it's first-ever Blu-ray release.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video (2.35:1) and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio in both English and French.
There's no word on bonus features as of yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $28.99.
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Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children Announced for June
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children Complete' to Blu-ray on June 7th. Video will be presented in 1.78:1 1080p AVC accompanied by both English and Japanese Dolby TrueHD 5.1 soundtracks. Additionally, English subtitles will be available for those who which to watch the film using the original Japanese soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* "Legacy of FINAL FANTASY VII" Featurette
* "Reminiscence of FINAL FANTASY VII" Original Story Digest
* On the Way to a Smile - Episode: Denzel Animated Film
* "Reminiscence of FINAL FANTASY VII Compilation" Story Digest
* Exclusive Sneak Peek at FINAL FANTASY XIII
* Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children Complete Trailers
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More Sony Catalog Titles on the Way
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'Anaconda' and 'Glory' to Blu-ray on June 2nd. For both releases, video will be presented in 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack. As with all recent Sony releases, these titles will be BD-Live enabled. No special features have been announced at this time.
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Bruce Almighty Heading to Blu-ray
In an early announcement to retailers, Universal Studios Home Entertainment has revealed that they will bring the comedy, 'Bruce Almighty' to Blu-ray on June 2nd. Technical specs have not been announced at this time, but you can expect to see 1080p VC-1 video accompanied by DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks.
Special features have not been announced at this time.
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Universal to bring Fletch to Blu-ray
In an early announcement to retailers, Universal Studios Home Entertainment has revealed that they will bring the comedy, 'Fletch' to Blu-ray on June 2nd. Technical specs have not been announced at this time, but you can expect to see 1080p VC-1 video accompanied by DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks.
Special features have not been announced at this time.
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Neil Young Archives Gets June Date
According to the man himself, 'Neil Young: Archives Volume One' will hit store shelves on June 2nd, day-and-date with both the DVD and CD releases. Pegged as more of a biography than a box set, this 10-disc set covers 10 years of the artists life, including previously unreleased songs and personal notes from the legendary singer/song writer.
The specifics have yet to be detailed, but we do know there will be roughly 30 hours of material, some of which available for the very first time to fans. Stay tuned as we expect to hear more soon.
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Blu-ray Added to UK Inflation Basket
Every year, the UK Office for National Statistics revises the "inflation basket" in order to determine the country's inflation rate based on popular goods. This year, they have added Blu-ray Discs as one of the monitored goods in response to the increasing popularity of the format. Every month, they will monitor prices of Blu-ray Disc along with small, individual yogurt, hardwood flooring, and watch battery replacement.
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Paul Blart: Mall Cop Gets Detailed
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced the technical specs and special features for the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'Paul Blart: Mall Cop', which is due to hit store shelves on May 19th, day-and-date with the DVD release. For this two-disc set, video will be presented in 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* Deleted Scenes
* “Fun on Set” – Fun, wacky moments on-set including hilarious outtakes
* Commentary with Kevin James and Producer Todd Garner
* “Kevin James: Not Your Average Mall Cop” – A look at Kevin James and his many roles as actor, producer and co-writer
* “Stunts” – Stunts in the film
* “The Mall” – Experience of shooting in a shopping mall
* “On Set with Mike ‘Rooftop' Escamilla” – Behind-the-scenes footage from a pro BMX biker
* “Action Sports Junkies” – A look at the film's extreme sports actors
* “Mall Cop Response” – A mall security guard takes on a pro skater
* “Mike V. vs. Mall Cop” – A pro skater takes on mall security while spray painting the mall
* “Free Running vs. Parkour” – A look at the extreme sports of parkour and free running
* “Thoughts with Kevin James” – Kevin James gives his random thoughts on malls, moustaches and how to become a mall cop
* “Sugar” – Follow a free runner through the mall as he races to get Kevin James sugar for his coffee
* Digital Copy of the film for the PC, PSP, Mac or iPod (BD Exclusive)
* cinechat – Send onscreen messages to friends around the world while watching the movie together (BD Exclusive)
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'Anaconda' to Devour Blu-ray this June
Fans of big rubber snakes, mark your calendars: Sony has announced an early-June Blu-ray release for the camp-fest 'Anaconda.'
Despite laughably bad CGI and a snake who could out-act stars Ice Cube and Jennifer Lopez, 'Anaconda' went on to be a surprise box office hit, eventually grossing over $50 million and spawning a pair of even more forgettable sequels.
Sony will give the film it's first-ever Blu-ray release on June 2 (the studio previously released a DVD version in 1998.)
Tech specs will see 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video (2.35:1) and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
There's no word on bonus features as of yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $28.99.
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Steven Seagal 'Driven to Kill' on Blu this May
Steven Seagal's latest actioner is coming to Blu-ray, with Fox setting a mid-May premiere for 'Driven to Kill .'
Largely bypassing a theatrical release in the US, Seagal's latest comeback vehicle will arrive on Blu-ray May 19, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Tech specs will see 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video (1.85:1) and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
There are no announced extras.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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Children of the Corn Announced for Blu-ray
Anchor Bay Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring the 1984 horror classic 'Children of the Corn' to Blu-ray on July 28th to mark the 25th anniversary of the film, and just in time for the upcoming remake. Video will be presented in 1.85:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack.
Special features include:
* Audio commentary with director Fritz Kiersch, producer Terrence Kirby and actors John Franklin & Courtney Gains
* “It Was The Eighties!” (HD) -- Linda Hamilton talks about working on the film, offering great behind-the-scenes stories about the cast and crew
* “Stephen King on a Shoestring” (HD) – All-New interview with Producer Donald Borchers.
* “Welcome to Gatlin: The Sights and Sounds of Children of the Corn” (HD) – Interview with Production Designer Craig Stearns and Composer Jonathan Elias
* “Harvesting Horror: The Making of Children of the Corn” (SD)
* Fast Film Facts
* Original theatrical trailer
* Poster & still gallery
* Original storyboard and original title sequence art
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Eastwood's 'Gran Torino' Revs Up on Blu this June
Warner Home Video has announced an early-June Blu-ray release for the Clint Eastwood hit 'Gran Torino.'
Though pundits had predicted Eastwood's other directorial effort of 2008, 'Changeling,' would prove to be the big hit, it was 'Gran Torino' that clicked with audiences and critics, eventually grossing over $130 million domestically.
Eastwood's tale of racism and redemption will hit Blu-ray on June 9, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Warner has only issued an early trade alert as of now for the release, so there are no confirmed tech or supplement specs aside from a BD-Live exclusive music video for the film's title song. We'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $35.99.
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'New in Town' Gets May Blu-ray Release
Lionsgate has announced a late-May Blu-ray release for the Renee Zellweger romance 'New in Town.'
Co-starring Harry Connick Jr., the fish-out-of-water comedy grossed a fair $40 million at the domestic box office during its short theatrical run earlier this year.
Lionsgate has set a May 26 Blu-ray release, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Tech specs will see 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
Among the bonus features are a trio of featurettes ("Making New In Town in Winnipeg Canada," "The Folk Art of Scrapbooking,""Pudding's Delicious Role in New In Town") and deleted scenes.
Exclusive tot he Blu-ray is a picture-in-picture commentary with cast & crew (Bonus View).
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.99.
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Allegro to Debut 'Living Landscapes' Trio as Low-Priced Nature Blu-rays
Newcomer Allegro Entertainment has announced its first trio of Blu-ray releases, a budget line of titles in its 'Living Landscapes' nature series.
Dubbed 'Earthscapes,' the three titles to receive their high-def premiere on April 14 are 'Bali,' 'Olympic Rainforest' and 'Wild Africa.'
Tech specs will see 1080i video (1.78:1) and Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround audio.
There are no announced extras.
Suggested list price for each Blu-ray has been set at a wallet-friendly $12.98 a pop.
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Weinstein Details 'Reader' Blu-ray Specs
The Weinstein Co. has revealed final specs and box art for 'The Reader,' which arrives on Blu-ray in late-April with TrueHD audio and multiple bonus features.
As previously reported, the Weinstein Co. has set an April 28 Blu-ray date for the acclaimed Holocaust-themed drama (which earned a Best Actress statuette for Kate Winslet), day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/VC-1 video (1.85:1) and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras will include a quintet of making-of featurettes, and a dozen deleted scenes.
As previously announced, Lionsgate has set the suggested retail price at $39.99.
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BBC Announces "Nature's Most Amazing Events' for Blu-ray
BBC Video has announced a mid-June next-gen arrival for the six-part Discovery Channel series 'Nature's Most Amazing Events,' which will hit Blu-ray as a two-disc set.
Following the success of the BBC's best-selling 'Planet Earth,' the company will release 'Nature's Most Amazing Events' on Blu-ray June 16, day-and-date with a DVD version.
Including all six episodes from the series, the complete 300-minute runtime is spread across two Blu-ray discs, in 1080i video and Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround audio.
There are no announced supplemental features at press time, but we'll keep you posted.
BBC Video has set a suggested list price of $34.98 for the Blu-ray.
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Fox Previews 'Taken' Blu-ray, Promises 2-Disc Extended Cut
In a rare pre-announcement tease, Fox Home Entertainment says it is planning a Spring next-gen release for the surprise blockbuster 'Taken,' and has previewed the Blu-ray's box art.
Though the studio stopped short of issuing an exact street date for the $100 million-plus grossing thriller (which is still in theaters), it's promising a Blu-ray edition rumored for sometime in the month of May , day-and-date with a standard-def DVD.
There are no tech or supplement specs to report, but the studio has revealed a sneak peek at the Blu-ray box art, which promises a 2-disc set and an extended version of the film.
We also don't yet have a suggested list price for the Blu-ray, but the full official announcement is expected in the coming days. Needless to say, watch this space.
(http://i238.photobucket.com/albums/ff146/chuck427/original.jpg)
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Extras Revealed for Pride and Prejudice
A&E Home Video has announced the extras for the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'Pride and Prejudice', which is due to hit store shelves on April 14th. Extras for this release include the featurettes "Lasting Impressions", "An Impromptu Walkabout with Adrian Lukis and Lucy Briers", "Turning Point", and "Uncovering the Technical Restoration Process".
For this release, A&E went back to the 16mm film source and performed a frame-by-frame restoration. The results are supurb.
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More Dragon Ball Z Coming to Blu-ray!
FUNimation has announced its next round of Dragon Ball Z, with a double-header of 'Fusion Reborn' and 'Wrath of the Dragon' planned for Blu-ray mid-May.
Like the company's previous Dragon Ball Z double-feature releases, 'Dragon Ball Z: Fusion Reborn/Wrath of the Dragon' will present both full-length animes on a single BD-50 dual-layer disc.
FUNimation has set a May 19 street date for 'Fusion Reborn/Wrath of the Dragon.'
There were no tech specs or supplemental details available for the release at press time, but we'll keep you posted.
As with past 'Dragon Ball Z' releases, suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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'Kickboxer' to Kick It on Blu-ray this June
Lionsgate has announced an early-June Blu-ray release for the 1987 Jean-Claude Van Damme actioner 'Kickboxer.'
One of the "muscles from Brussels" biggest domestic box office hits. Lionsgate will release the film as a low-priced Blu-ray on June 16.
There are no tech specs as of yet, but given Lionsgate's bargain MSRP, there likely will not be an extensive amount of bonus features. We'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at only $19.99.
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Clubbed Announced for UK Blu-ray Release
Route One Releasing has announced that they will bring the film 'Clubbed' to Blu-ray on May 4th, day-and-date with the DVD release. The film is based on the international bestselling autobiography "Watch My Back" by Geoff Thompson. Technical specs have not been announced at this time.
Extras for this release include:
* Behind The Doors - The Making of CLUBBED
* Deleted Scenes
* Commentary - by director Neil Thompson and writer Geoff Thompson
* Trailer
* TV Spots
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LGMB: Silence of the Lambs for $15!
Amazon has lowered the price on the recent Blu-ray release of 'Silence of the Lambs' to $14.99. As the disc was released only a few weeks ago, its a great price for one of the best thrillers ever created. As of this posting, there still appears to be some in stock, so act now before they're gone!
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'Kickboxer' to Kick It on Blu-ray this June
Lionsgate has announced an early-June Blu-ray release for the 1987 Jean-Claude Van Damme actioner 'Kickboxer.'
One of the "muscles from Brussels" biggest domestic box office hits. Lionsgate will release the film as a low-priced Blu-ray on June 16.
I like this one...remind me of the old days of Van Damme ;D
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I like this one...remind me of the old days of Van Damme ;D
me too..hopefully they will also release Bloodsport..... kumate!!!!!
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me too..hopefully they will also release Bloodsport..... kumate!!!!!
(http://www.google.com.ph/images?q=tbn:kJhfoWU7-b5SvM::www.billdetucci.com/images/bloodsport_soundtrack_cd.jpg) ..... yeah, hope that this will also be in the offing for a BD release soon ;D
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Ooh..among them I like Bloodsport the best! :D
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Discovery Channel to Take Blu-ray 'Time Warp'
The Discovery Channel has announced an early-June Blu-ray landing for its acclaimed documentary series 'Time Warp.'
Promising to allow you to "explore the world in astonishing, radical new ways," join the 'Time Warp' team, Jeff Lieberman and Matt Kearney, as they reveal events that happen much too quickly or too slowly to be perceived in depth by our senses.
The Discovery Channel has set a June 9 release for the Blu-ray, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Presented on two BD-50 dual-layer discs, the complete 462-minute series will be presented in 1080i video and Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround audio.
There are no announced supplemental features at press time, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested list price has been set at $34.99 for the Blu-ray.
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'Terry Fator: Live at the Mirage' on Blu-ray this September
Image Entertainment has announced 'Terry Fator: Live at the Mirage' for a Blu-ray release this September.
Terry Fator, the ventriloquist million-dollar winner from the second season of ‘America’s Got Talent’ and the man Simon Cowell (‘American Idol’) has called “one of the two most talented people on the planet,” will bring his live show from the Mirage in Las Vegas to Blu-ray on September 8.
There's no word on tech specs or extras as of yet, but we’ll make sure to keep you posted.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $24.98.
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Blu-ray becomes ‘Flawless’ this June
Diamonds are Demi Moore’s best friend when Magnolia Home Entertainment’s 'Flawless' hits Blu-ray at the end of June.
Set for a June 30 high-definition release, the 2007 caper-thriller stars Moore as an executive at the London Diamond Corporation who forms an unlikely alliance with the company’s janitor (Michael Caine) to pull off the ultimate heist.
There's no word on tech specs or extras as of yet, but we’ll make sure to keep you posted.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.98.
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Girls Go Wild in 'Spring Breakdown' this June
Warner Brothers will bring the direct-to-video comedy 'Spring Breakdown' to Blu-ray this June.
'Spring Breakdown' stars Amy Poehler, Parker Posey, and Rachel Dratch as three thirty-something friends who decide to take a vacation on an island popular with the college crowd on spring break.
The disc (releasing June 2) will feature 1080p video, Dolby Digital 5.1 audio, and special features include: deleted scenes, gag reel, and a digital copy of the film.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $35.99.
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'Grumpy Old Men' Blu-ray Detailed
As previously reported, Warner Home Video has announced an early-July Blu-ray bow for the comedy favorite 'Grumpy Old Men.'
Warner Brothers will give the smash hit comedy starring Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau the high-definition treatment on July 7.
Details and technical specs are in and the Blu-ray will feature a 1080p/VC-1 transfer, a lossless Dolby TrueHD 2.0 stereo track, however the only bonus features that will be included is a theatrical trailer and a digital copy.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $28.95.
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Bad Boy Bubby Announced for Blu-ray
Blue Underground has announced that they will bring the Venice Film Festival Grand Special Jury Prize winning film 'Bad Boy Bubby' to Blu-ray on July 28th. Video will be presented in 2.35:1 1080p accompanied a both a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio and 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtracks (a signature feature of all Blue Underground Blu-ray releases).
Extras for this release include:
* Christ Kid, You're a Weirdo – Interview with Director Rolf de Heer
* Being Bubby – Interview with Star Nicholas Hope
* Confessor Caressor – Short Film Starring Nicholas Hope
* Theatrical Trailer
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April 20th is the Day the Earth Stood Still in the UK
20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring the 2008 remake of 'The Day the Earth Stood Still' to Blu-ray in the UK on April 20th, day-and-date with the DVD release. Coming on a BD-50, video will be presented in 2.40:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* Build Your Own Gort – interactive feature for viewers to create their own unique Gort using elements from early Gort designs
* Picture-in-Picture Bonus View – allows a special insider's look into the alien invasion!
* In-Movie Features – access commentaries, picture-in-picture track, and storyboards at any time during the film
* Deleted Scenes – your chance to view three scenes that did not make the final cut of the film:
o Equipment is issued to the scientists
o Helen and Granier discuss the shot
o Extended version of Klaatu being wheeled down hallway
* Re-Imagining “The Day” – a look at the making of this re-imagined version of the film
* Unleashing Gort – take a peek at the process involved in creating Gort's new look
* Watching the Skies: In Search of Extraterrestrial Life – scientists talk about possible real world scenarios for first contact with aliens
* The Day the Earth Was “Green” – Fox's first green production; details from this environmentally conscious set
* Audio Commentary with Screenwriter David Scarpa
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He's Just Not That Into You Coming to Blu-ray
Warner Home Video has announced that they will bring 'He's Just Not That Into You' to Blu-ray on June 2nd, day-and-date with the DVD release. This star-studded film will be presented in 2.40:1 1080p VC-1 accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack. A digital copy of the film will also be included in this release.
Extras for this release, which are all in high definition, include:
* Baltimore Blade: The Relationship Issue featurette
* Six Words that Make Up a Film
* The Director Stages a Scene: Duet for Telephones
* Deleted Scenes with Optional Commentary by Director Ken Kwapis
o Birthday Party / Walk Home
o Anna Visits Her Mom
o Annas Song
o Gigis Date with Bill
o Gay Pride Parade
* BD Live
* Digital Copy on Disc
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Terminator Gets New Slip-Cover; No New Extras
In an early announcement to retailers, MGM Home Entertainment in conjunction with 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has revealed that they will bring 'The Terminator (Lenticular Cover)' to Blu-ray on May 12th, day-and-date with the DVD re-issue and one week before Lionsgate's new 'Terminator 2: Judgment Day (Skynet Edition)' Blu-ray.
According to our good friend Bill Hunt at The Digital Bits, MGM is simply re-issuing the existing disc with a new lenticular cover, so nothing new. The next obvious question becomes, when will be see a proper release for 'Terminator 3'? Japan may have already provided a hint, with Warner Home Video releasing a Dolby TrueHD version of the release there on June 5th. Hopefully we'll hear of a US release soon.
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Netflix Shakes Down Blu-ray Renters... Again!
Netflix subscribers got a nastygram in their inboxes today when they received notice that, beginning April 27th, they would be charged anywhere from $1 to $9 extra a month for access to Blu-ray titles. Those who opt for the $4.99/mo plan (1 movie at a time/2 per month max) will pay an extra $1, while those who enjoy the $47.99/mo plan (8 movies at a time/unlimited per month) pay a hefty $9 over their normal monthly fee.
Many readers will recall that this isn't the first time Netflix has charged premiums to their subscribers who prefer Blu-ray. Back in October, the popular web-based movie renter announced that they would charge subscribers an extra $1 per month for access to Blu-ray titles, regardless of plan. Their reasoning then was the same as it is today - Blu-ray titles cost them more to buy, so they are passing that charge to you.
What they fail to mention, however, is Blu-ray discs (with their scratch resistant coating) have a longer shelf life than their DVD counterparts, so any long term additional costs are yet to be determined. That they can announce such changes in the shadow of a down economy and while benefiting from ever increasing profits and membership numbers is, well, astounding to say the least.
Netflix's main rival, Blockbuster, does not charge their members for renting Blu-ray titles while maintaining a similar rental scheme. There was a time when the color blue was seen as superior to red. Is history now repeating itself?
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'Tribute to Pavarotti' Concert to Sing Blu-ray Tune Today!
In an extremely last-minute announcement, Universal Music has announced a Blu-ray release for the all-star concert film 'The Tribute to Pavarotti.'
Featuring unique performances from some of the world's most respected and revered musicians, the film features Placido Domingo, Jose Carreras, Sting and Andrea Bocelli, as well as featuring backstage interviews and footage of Pavarotti.
We still haven't received exact tech specs on the release, aside from 1080i video (1.78:1) and some form of high-res audio.
There are no announced extras.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $24.95.
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Universal Sets June Blu-ray Date for 'Bruce Almighty'
'Bruce Almighty' is getting a Blu-ray release, with Universal announcing an early-June arrival for the Jim Carrey comedy.
Co-starring Jennifer Aniston and Morgan Freeman as God, Universal has set a June 2 date for the Blu-ray, over a year past the HD DVD version.
Tech specs will see 1080p video (1.85:1) and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
There's no word on extras as of yet, but a package comparable to the HD DVD is expected.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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Valkyrie Announced of UK Release
MGM Home Entertainment in conjunction with 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment have announced that they will bring the Bryan Singer film 'Valkyrie' to Blu-ray on June 8th, day-and-date with the DVD release. Video will be presented in 1.85:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* Commentary by Tom Cruise, Bryan Singer, and Christopher McQuarrie
* Commentary by Christopher McQuarrie and Nathan Alexander
* Featurettes:
o The Journey to Valkyrie
o The Road to Resistance: A Visual Guide
o The African Front Sequence
o Taking to the Air
o Recreating Berlin
o 92nd Street Y: Reel Pieces with Tom Cruise and Bryan Singer
o The Valkyrie Legacy
* Digital Copy
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Pride and Prejudice Restoration Video
A&E Home Video has released a video detailing the process and results of their frame-by-frame restoration of the 16mm source for 'Pride and Prejudice', which is due to be released for Blu-ray on April 14th. As the video shows (after the jump), the results are impressive and one can only applaud A&E for the accomplishment.
They have also posted some images from the restoration which give you yet another direct comparison of where the image started, and what it looks like now.
http://vimeo.com/3869589 (http://vimeo.com/3869589)
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Spike Lee's 'Do The Right Thing: 20th Anniversary' Hits Blu-ray this June
Universal will be releasing a 20th Anniversary Edition of the Spike Lee Joint ' Do The Right Thing: 20th Anniversary' on Blu-ray this June.
On June 30, Universal will release Spike Lee’s ‘Do The Right Thing’ on Blu-ray (day and date with a DVD release). The Blu-ray disc will feature 1080p video, a lossless DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 soundtrack, and a boatload of special features, including: newly recorded feature commentary with Spike Lee; commentary with Spike Lee, Ernest Dickerson, Wynn Thomas, and Joie Lee ; Do The Right Thing: 20 Years Later; Deleted & Extended Scenes; Making "Do The Right Thing;" Cannes, 1989; Trailers; BD-Live Access, and a few other surprises.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.98.
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Blu-ray Announced for NBA Champions
Warner Home Video has announced that they will bring 'NBA Champions 2008-2009' to Blu-ray on July 14th, day-and-date with the DVD release. While the NBA season is still in full swing, Warner is preparing for another NBA Blu-ray release (last year they released 'NBA Champions 2007-2008: Boston Celtics' to celebrate the Celtics championship run).
Video will be presented in VC-1 accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby Digital soundtrack. No special features have been announced at this time.
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NatGeo's Rhino Rescue Announced
National Geographic in conjunction with Warner Home Video have announced that they will bring 'Rhino Rescue' to Blu-ray on July 28th, day-and-date with the DVD release. Video will be presented in VC-1 accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby Digital soundtrack. No special features have been announced at this time.
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Season Two of Pushing Daisies Announced
Warner Home Video has announced that they will bring 'Pushing Daisies: The Complete Second Season' to Blu-ray on July 21st, day-and-date with the DVD release. Spanning over two BD-50s, each episode will be presented in to 1.85:1 1080p VC-1 video accompanied by a 5.1 Dolby Digital soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* The Master Pie Maker: Inside the Mind of Creator Bryan Fuller
* From Oven to Table: Crafting a Script Idea Into Reality
* Super Sweet Ingredients: Spotlight on Composer Jim Dooley's Work
* Add a Little Magic: Executing Some Giant-Sized Visual Effects
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Pink Panther 2 Coming to the UK
20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'The Pink Panther 2' to Blu-ray in the UK on June 22nd, day-and-date with the DVD release. The sequel to the 2006 remake, this film starring Steve Martin will be presented in 1.85:1 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Special features for this release include:
* Gag Reel
* Featurette – Drama is easy... comedy is dangerous
* Featurette – A Dream Team Like No Other
* Interactive Treasure Hunt Game (BD Exclusive)
* Digital Copy (BD Exclusive)
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Fox Details Seth McFarlane's Cavalcade Blu-ray
20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has announced the technical specs and special features for the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'Seth MacFarlane's Cavalcade of Cartoon Comedy', which is due to hit store shelves on May 12th, day-and-date with the DVD release. Video will be presented in 1080p widescreen AVC accompanied by a 5.1 DTS Master Audio soundtrack.
Extras for this release, which will all be presented in high definition, will include:
* Red Carpet Premiere
* Still galleries
o Rough character models
o Cleaned-up character models
o Colored characters models
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First Look to Re-Set 'Code' Blu-ray for June
After an eight-month delay, First Look has announced a new street date for the little-seen actioner 'The Code.'
Starring Morgan Freeman and Antonio Banderas, and directed by Mimi Leder ('Deep Impact'), 'The Code' barely made a blip on the box office radar during its brief theatrical run last year.
Originally announced for an October video release then subsequently delayed, First Look has now confirmed a new June 23 Blu-ray release, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
There's still no word on tech or supplement specs, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.99.
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Samsung Announces Three Blu-ray Home Theater In A Box Systems
Samsung has announced three new home theaters in a box (HTiB) equipped with Blu-Ray, and has lowered the price from their previous models to start at $549.
The HT-BD1250 is the entry-level, $549 HTiB. It features a 5.1 channel system, and has begun shipping this month.
The HT-BD8100 retails at $799, and is the first sound bar device in the industry to embed a Blu-Ray player. It offers virtual surround sound and the ability to mount into a wall, and will ship in July.
The third system is the HT-BD7200, retailing at $799. It features virtual surround sound and 2.1 speakers, and will ship in June.
These three HTiBs are all capable of decoding Blu-Ray surround sound, displaying BD-Live content, and can access services like NetFlix and Pandora. They can also access content from a synced PC, such as music and video streaming, and two of them (the HT-BD1250 and HT-BD7200) are designated as “Works with iPhone”
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'Rollerball' Explodes onto Blu-ray this June
Another remake gets the high-definition treatment when MGM/UA’s 'Rollerball' skates onto Blu-ray in early June.
On June 2, the 2002 reimagining of the 1975 cult classic 'Rollerball’ hit Blu-ray. The film stars Chris Klein, Jean Reno, Rebecca Romijn, Pink, and a show-stealing LL Cool J, as participants in the most extreme sport of all time.
There's no word on tech specs or extras as of yet, but we’ll make sure to keep you posted.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $24.99.
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MGM/UA Starts a Blu-ray Bar Fight with 'Road House' this June
Patrick Swayze walks into a bar and tosses everybody out when MGM/UA releases 'Road House' on Blu-ray in early June.
Set for a June 2 high-definition release, the 1989 action flick stars Swayze as Dalton – the best bouncer in the business - who sets out to clean up the small town of Jasper after a crooked businessman pushes the townsfolk too far.
There's no word on tech specs or extras as of yet, but we’ll make sure to keep you posted.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $24.99.
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E1 Announces First Wave of Blu-Ray Titles
Newcomer E1 Entertainment has announced its first Blu-ray releases, setting an early-June arrival for the indie films 'Baby on Board' and 'Elsewhere.'
Starring Heather Graham, Jerry O'Connell, and Lara Flynn Boyle, the lighthearted comedy 'Baby on Board' is set to receive a limited theatrical release this April, followed by a day-and-date Blu-ray and DVD release on June 9.
The teen mystery 'Elsewhere,' starring 'Lost's Tania Raymonde and 'Twilight's Anna Kendrick, will arrive a week earlier, on June 2 (also day-and-date).
E1 has yet to outline tech or supplement specs for its first wave of Blu-rays, but we'll keep you posted of all future announcements from the indie.
Suggested retail price for each Blu-ray has been set at $24.98.
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‘Navy Seals’ Storming Blu-ray This June
harlie Sheen and Michael Biehn star in 'Navy Seals,' which hits Blu-ray in early June from MGM/UA.
Co-starring Joanne Whally-Kilmer and Bill Paxton, the popular 1990 action flick based around the Navy’s SEAL (land, sea, and air) division will receive the high-definition treatment on June 2.
There's no word on tech specs or extras as of yet, but we’ll make sure to keep you posted.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $24.99.
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The 1970s Classics ‘The Towering Inferno’ & ‘M*A*S*H’ Headed for Blu-ray
20th Century Fox will release the 1970s classics 'The Towering Inferno' and 'M*A*S*H' on Blu-ray this July 14.
There's no word on tech specs or extras as of yet, but we’ll make sure to keep you posted.
Suggested list price for each Blu-ray has been set at $34.99.
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Disney Hi-Hos ‘Snow White’ Blu-ray Seven Weeks before DVD
Disney/Buena Vista has announced that they will release the animated classic 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' on Blu-ray seven weeks before the standard DVD this Fall.
On October 6, the Blu-ray edition of ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ will be released, while the standard DVD will follow seven weeks later on November 24. Those who don’t own a Blu-ray player can still purchase the high-definition version, though, which will also include a DVD of the film.
There's no word on list price, tech specs or extras as of yet, but expect all-new features exclusive to this release.
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BIG gets detailed
MGM Home Entertainment and 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment have announced the technical specs and special features for the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'Big: Extended Edition'. the movie will be presented in 1080p video accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Special features for the release include:
* Feature
o Theatrical Version
o Extended Cut
* Commentary:
o “Big Brainstorming” – An Audio Documentary by Gary Ross & Anne Spielberg
* Deleted Scenes:
o Billy's Home Life
o Susan Interrupts Wedding Shower
o Josh Calls His Mom
o Susan and Paul Having Breakfast
o Josh and Billy Pick Up the Tuxedo
o Quacky Duck
o Josh and Susan Work Late
o Sequence of Events After Susan and Josh Fight
* Featurettes:
o Zoltar Easter Egg
o “Big” Beginnings
o Chemistry of a Classic
o The Work of Play
o Hollywood Backstory: Big
o Carnival Party Newswrap
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Details in for 'There's Something About Mary'
20th Century Fox Home Entertainment have announced the technical specs and special features for the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'There's Something About Mary'. The movie will be presented in 1080p video accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Special features for this release include:
# Feature
* Theatrical Version
* Extended Cut
# 13 Deleted, Extended and Alternate Scenes
# Clay Animation Titles
# Director's Commentary with Peter and Bobby Farrelly
# Extended Director's Commentary with Peter and Bobby Farrelly
# Director's Bonus Commentary
# Writer's Commentary with Ed Decter and John J Strauss
# Clay Animation Titles – Director's Commentary
# Getting Behind Mary
# Backstory: There's Something About Mary
# Comedy Central: Reel Comedy
# Up a Tree with Jonathon Richman and Tommy Larkins
# Franks & Beans: A Conversation with W. Earl Brown
# Exposing Themselves: Cameron Diaz, Matt Dillon, Ben Stiller, Chris Elliot
# Touchdown: A Conversation with Brett Favre
# Interview Roulette with Harland Williams
# Puffy, Boobs and Balls
# Around the World with Mary
# Marketing Mary
# International Posters
# Theatrical Trailer
# TV Spots
# “Every Day Should Be a Holiday” – The Dandy Warhols Music Video
# Outtakes
# “Build Me Up Buttercup” Karaoke
# Behind the Zipper
# Trailers (Fox on Blu-ray)
# BD-Live Bootstrap
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Fox Details Predator 2 Blu-ray
20th Century Fox Home Entertainment have announced the technical specs and special features for the upcoming Blu-ray release of 'Predator 2'. The movie will be presented in 1080p video accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Special features for this bluray release include:
* Commentary by Writers Jim Thomas & John Thomas and Director Stephen Hopkins
* Featurettes
o The Hunters and the Hunted
o Something on the Roof
o Enemy in the Alley
o Subway Showdown
o Gauntlet Knives
o Self Destruct
o Plasma Cannon
o Net Launcher
o Smart Weapon
o Telescoping Spear
o Trailers A, B & C
o Weapons
o Jungle Revised
o Much Worse
o Thrill of the Hunt
o The Predator Goes to Town (1990)
o International Featurette (1990)
o Creating the Ultimate Hunter
o #1 Hard Core Special Report: City at War
o #2 Hard Core Special Report: From Penthouse to Slaughterhouse
o In Town
* Still Galleries
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Some Fox/MGM Titles Get Detailed
20th Century Fox MGM Home Entertainment and 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment have announced the technical specs and special features for the upcoming Blu-ray releases of 'Force 10 from Navarone', 'Lions for Lambs', 'To Live and Die in L.A.', and 'The Siege'. All titles will be presented in 1080p video accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Special features for these releases include:
Force 10 from Navarone
# Trailers:
* Theatrical Trailer
* Hoosiers
* Rocky
* Harts War
Lions for Lambs
# Commentary by Director Robert Redford
# The Making of Lions for Lambs
# Script to Screen
# UA Legacy
# Trailer Farm:
* Lions for Lambs Teaser Trailer
* Lions for Lambs Trailer
'To Live and Die in L.A.' and 'The Siege' will have no extra features.
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Fox/MGM Titles Announced for the UK
MGM Home Entertainment in conjunction with 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has announced that they will bring 'Silence of the Lambs', 'Fargo', and 'There's Something About Mary' to Blu-ray in the UK on May 4th. Video will be presented in 1080p accompanied by 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks.
Special features for these releases include:
Silence of the Lambs
* Inside the Labyrinth featurette
* The Silence of the Lambs: From Page to Screen featurette
* Scoring the Silence featurette
* Original 1991 ‘Making Of' featurette
* Deleted Scenes
* Anthony Hopkins phone message
* Outtakes Reel
* TV spots
* Teaser trailer
* Breaking the Silence feature (HD)
* Original theatrical trailer (HD)
Fargo
* Minnesota Nice' documentary
* Photo gallery
* TV spot
* American Cinematography article
* Original theatrical trailer (HD)
There's Something About Mary
* Getting Behind Mary featurette
* Backstory: There's Something About Mary featurette
* Comedy Central: Reel Comedy featurette
* Up A Tree With Jonathan Richman and Tommy Larkins featurette
* Franks & Beans: A Conversation with W. Earl Brown
* Exposing Themselves: Cameron Diaz, Matt Dillon, Ben Stiller, Chris Elliot featurette
* Touchdown: A Conversation with Brett Favre
* Interview Roulette with Harland Williams
* Puffy, Boobs and Balls featurette
* Easter Eggs
* International posters
* Original theatrical trailer
* TV spots
* Dandy Warhols music video
* Outtakes
* Build Me Up Buttercup karaoke
* Behind the Zipper featurette
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BFI Announces Flipside Blu-ray Titles
British Film Institute (BFI) The British Film Institute (BFI) has announced that they will launch a new label called "Flipside" which will feature "weird and wonderful British films in new high-quality editions". The first three films in this series are 'The Bed Sitting Room', 'London in the Raw', and 'Primitive London', which are all due to hit UK store shelves on May 25th.
Extras for these releases include:
The Bed Sitting Room
* Archival interviews with Richard Lester (1967, 17 mins), Spike Milligan (1967, 40 mins) and Peter Cook (1967, 30 mins)
* Original trailer
* Illustrated booklet with essay by Michael Brooke (BFI Sight and Sound contributor) and original review and promotional material.
London in the Raw
* Remastered to HD from the original negative
* Three 60s 'London Sketches': Pub (Peter Davis, 1962, 26 mins); Strip (Peter Davis, Staffan Lamm, Don DeFina, 1965, 26 mins); Chelsea Bridge Boys (Peter Davis, Staffan Lamm, 1966, 28 mins)
* Original trailer
* Original UK and continental versions of the feature
* Illustrated booklet with essay by novelist and critic Stewart Home (author of Down and Out in Shoreditch and Hoxton); original review and promotional material
Primitive London
* Remastered to HD from the original negative
* Carousella (John Irvin, 1966, 23 mins): a dramatised documentary on the lives of a group of striptease artistes
* Stuart McCabe (strip club owner) interview (1968, 15 mins)
* Shirley (stripper) interview (1968, 6 mins)
* Al Burnett (nightclub owner) interview (1967, 17 mins)
* Original trailer (English and French language options)
* English and French language versions
* Illustrated booklet with essays by Iain Sinclair, Vic Pratt (BFI Curator) and William Fowler (BFI Curator); original review and promotional material
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The Edge of Love Coming to Blu-ray
Image Entertainment has announced that they will bring the Kierra Knightley and Sienna Miller film 'The Edge of Love' to Blu-ray on July 14th, day-and-date with the DVD release. The film will be presented in 1080p video accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack. No special features have been announced at this time.
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Disney Hi-Hos Snow White Blu-ray Seven Weeks before DVD
Disney/Buena Vista has announced that they will release the animated classic 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' on Blu-ray seven weeks before the standard DVD this Fall.
On October 6, the Blu-ray edition of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs will be released, while the standard DVD will follow seven weeks later on November 24. Those who dont own a Blu-ray player can still purchase the high-definition version, though, which will also include a DVD of the film.
There's no word on list price, tech specs or extras as of yet, but expect all-new features exclusive to this release.
This is good news. I just hope they include the DVD version instead of a digital copy.
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This is good news. I just hope they include the DVD version instead of a digital copy.
yup, just like Snow White and Pinocchio, it will include a DVD copy, aside from the Digital copy...
I like how Disney is setting up their marketing strategy...especially since this time, the bluray will be 7 weeks ahead...hope other studio's follow...
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I like how Disney is setting up their marketing strategy...especially since this time, the bluray will be 7 weeks ahead...hope other studio's follow...
Disney should also release BD gift sets of those films... ;D
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WELCOME BACK PINOYDVD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Fox Preps ‘Dollhouse: Season One’ for Blu-ray Release
20th Century Fox is prepping the first season of Joss Whedon’s ‘Dollhouse’ for a Blu-ray release.
The Sci-Fi TV series stars Eliza Dushku as Echo—an “Active” in a secretive group of individuals for hire—who have their personalities wiped clean and can imprint whichever personality the employer desires.
There's no word on a release date, tech specs, or extras as of yet, but we’ll make sure to keep you posted.
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'Graduate' to Get June Blu-ray Release
MGM and Fox are bringing the 1967 classic 'The Graduate' to Blu-ray in early June.
Long-promised for high-def release since MGM first announced format support in 2006, 'The Graduate,' which turned Dustin Hoffman, Anne Bancroft and Katherine Ross into stars and remains one of the seminal movies of the '60s, has at last been confirmed for a June 2 street date.
There's no word yet on specs or extras at this early date, but given the multitude of previous DVD and home video versions of the film release, we hope for a extensive selection of supplements.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $24.99.
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'The International' to Take Aim on Blu-ray this June
Sony Pictures is prepping a Blu-ray release of 'The International,' telling retailers to expect an early-June arrival for the action-thriller.
Making only a minor blip at the box office earlier this year with a $35 million domestic take, the Clive Owen-Naomi Watts starrer will receive a Blu-ray release on June 9, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080/AVC MPEG-4 video and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
No word on extras, but watch for final details in the days ahead.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.95.
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'Striking Distance,' 'No Way Back' Coming to Blu-ray
Sony Pictures has announced two new action titles just in time for Father's Day, with 'Striking Distance' and 'No Way Back' set for a mid-June Blu-ray release.
Arriving concurrently on Blu-ray June 16 will be the Bruce Willis thriller 'Striking Distance,' and the little-seen Russell Crowe war vehicle 'No Way Back.'
Tech specs will see 1080/AVC MPEG-4 video and first-ever English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Sony has not announced any bonus features for either title, though both will come BD-Live enabled.
Suggested retail price for each has been set at $28.95 each.
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MGM Slots 'Dark Blue' for June Blu Release
MGM is releasing the Kurt Russell thriller 'Dark Blue' as a Blu-ray/DVD combo set in early June.
Falling quite short at the box office, the 2002 Kurt Russell action film will receive a Blu-ray release on June 2.
A two-disc set, the Blu-ray platter will feature 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track. A second disc will also include a standard DVD copy of the film.
There are no announced extras as of yet, but we'll keep you posted of any future spec updates.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $24.99.
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Sony Unwraps 'Ghostbusters' Blu-ray Art
With only two months to go before it's eagerly-awaited Blu-ray debut, Sony Pictures has delivered a sneak peek at the final box art and spec details for 'Ghostbusters.'
As previously reported, the 1984 blockbuster that slimed the world will receive it's long-promised Blu-ray release on June 16.
Newly-remastered, 'Ghostbusters' will be presented on a BD-50 dual-layer disc in 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video with a Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio track.
Features exclusive to the 25th Anniversary Blu-ray include the "Slimer Mode" picture-in-picture "Graphical Viewing Experience" which includes an examination of the spook-hunters' firehouse headquarters, an in-depth exploration of the creatures in the Ghostbusters mythology, behind-the-scenes discussions of making the movie, and new cast, crew and special effects artists interviews. Also new is the featurette "Ecto-1: Resurrecting the Classic Car," the "Ghostbusters Garage" still gallery and a collectible 32-page booklet.
Extras carried over from the previous DVD edition include audio commentary with Ivan Reitman, Harold Ramis, and Joe Medjuck, a trio of featurettes ("1984 – The Making of Ghostbusters," "Interviews with Cast and Crew," "SFX Team"), deleted scenes and storyboard comparisons.
Finally, Sony has issued the final box art for 'Ghostbusters,' which sees a new Blu-skewed color scheme and the film's iconic logo:
(http://i238.photobucket.com/albums/ff146/chuck427/original-1.jpg)
Though previously announced with a $38.95 MSRP, Sony has now alerted retailers to a $28.99 price tag for the Blu-ray.
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'Walking Tall' to Hit Blu-ray in Early June
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's remake of 'Walking Tall' is coming to Blu-ray in early June from MGM/Fox.
Co-starring Johnny Knoxville and 'Desperate Housewives' Neal McDonough, the mid-sized 2004 hit, based on the '70s cult classic of the same name, will receive the high-def treatment on June 2.
Tech specs will see a 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
There's no word on extras as of yet, but we'll make sure to keep you posted.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $24.99.
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Animated 'Dragon Hunters' Coming to Blu-ray
Peace Arch Entertainment has announced it will bring the French animated fantasy 'Dragon Hunters' to Blu-ray in late-June.
Featuring the voices of Forest Whitaker and Marie Drion, this all-CGI tale of the adventures of a pair of dragon hunters will make its Stateside Blu-ray debut on June 23, day-and-date with the DVD.
Peace Arch has not confirmed final tech or supplement specs as of yet, but watch for full details in the days ahead. We'll keep you posted.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $22.99.
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'Paul Simon and Friends' to Sing Blu-ray Song this June
Music legend Paul Simon is making his Blu-ray debut, bringing his star-studded concert spectacle 'Paul Simon and Friends' to high-def in early June.
Earning the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for popular performance, the full-length concert film features Simon singing some of his biggest hits and favorite covers, and includes performances but such fellow legends as Stevie Wonder, James Taylor, George Harrison, Lyle Lovett and Art Garfunkel.
Summit Entertainment will release the complete 110-minute concert as a single-disc Blu-ray set on June 2, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
We have no tech or supplement specs as of yet, but we'll keep you posted. Watch this space.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.98.
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UPDATE: 'Pulp Fiction,' "Jackie Brown' Coming to Blu-ray
UPDATE: (04/15/09, 9:45pm ET) We've just received word from Disney that the Blu-rays of 'Pulp Fiction' and 'Jackie Brown' will not be debuting on August 4 as originally reported. A new date and full press announcement will be issued on May 15, 2009. In the meantime, we've moved both titles to the "Release Dates Pending" section of our Blu-ray Release List.
A Quentin Tarantino two-punch is heading to Blu-ray, with Disney/Miramax planning an early-August date for 'Pulp Fiction' and 'Jackie Brown.'
Originally announced for high-def release last year but with no set date, word from Miramax is for an August 4 date for both of the Tarantino classics.
There is no word on tech or supplement specs as of yet. However, both are billed as special editions, so we look forward to a wealth of bonus features.
We also haven't received any confirmed MSRP for either title, but as always, we'll keep you posted.
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French Fright Flick 'Eden Log' to Hit Blu-ray this May
Magnolia Home Entertainment has announced a late-May Blu-ray release for the French sci-fi thriller 'Eden Log.'
Receiving mixed critical notices, 'Eden Log' tells the tale of a man who wakes up in a cave with amnesia, and must battle an otherworldly creature to escape alive.
Magnolia will give the film its Stateside debut May 19, day-and-date on Blu-ray and DVD.
We have yet to receive final tech and supplement specs for the Blu-ray, but will keep you posted.
Suggested list price has been set at $34.98.
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Warner Scares Up 'Cell' Sequel on Blu-ray
Warner/New Line has announced its latest direct-to-video premiere release, bringing the horror sequel 'The Cell 2' to Blu-ray this June.
A follow-up to the 2002 cult favorite 'The Cell,' the sequel will hit Blu-ray (sans original stars Vince Vaughn and Jennifer Lopez) on June 16, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Tech specs will see a BD-25 single-layer presentation with 1080p/VC-1 video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras will include a single making-of featurette, plus a second standard DVD disc with a Digital Copy of the film (compatible with PCs and iTunes).
The disc will also come BD-Live-enabled, though at press time Warner has not announced any exclusive content.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $35.99.
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'Morning Light' to Set Sail on Blu-ray this June
The 'Morning Light' is coming to high-def, with Disney alerting retailers to a mid-June Blu-ray release for the acclaimed documentary.
Though receiving only a brief theatrical release, 'Morning Light' earned critical kudos for its breathtaking cinematography, as it portrayed the struggles of an inexperienced young crew that competes in an ocean sailing race across over two thousand miles of open water.
Disney will debut the Blu-ray on June 16, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
We have no tech or supplement specs as of yet, but watch for the full announce in the days ahead.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.99.
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Asylum Jumps into Blu with 'Transmorphers' Prequel
Newcomer Asylum Home Entertainment has announced its debut high-def release, bringing the direct-to-video prequel 'Transmorphers: Fall of Man' to Blu-ray this June.
Originally released direct-to-video in 2007, the original, 'Transformers'-derivative 'Transmorphers' was a modest hit on DVD but has since earned a cult reputation amongst bad movie lovers.
Marking Asylum's entrance into the Blu-ray market, the indie will release the 2009 prequel 'Transmorphers: Fall of Man' on June 30, day-and-date with the DVD version.
Asylum has not yet provided us with tech or supplement details for its debut release, but we'll keep you posted on all their future announcements.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $24.98.
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Fox Sets July Date for 'Prison Break: The Final Break' for Blu-ray
More 'Prison Break' is coming to high-def, with Fox announcing a late-July Blu-ray release for the two-hour movie 'The Final Break.'
Though Fox has already confirmed the current and final season of the cult TV drama, 'Prison Break: The Complete Fourth Season,' for DVD release on June 2 (a Blu-ray announcement is pending), that won't be the last fans will see of the series on high-def.
Thanks to a scoop from our friends at TV Shows on DVD, the 88-minute, concluding TV movie 'Prison Break: The Final Break' will follow right behind, with Fox alerting retailers to a July 21 day-and-date Blu-ray and DVD release.
Tech specs will see 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video (1.78:1) and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
Extras confirmed thus far include a featurette, "The Old Ball and Chain & Free."
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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'Lost' Fifth Season to Hit Blu-ray by Year's End
More 'Lost' is coming to high-def, with Disney revealing plans to bring the show's fifth season to Blu-ray in early December.
As previously announced, Disney is set to debut both 'Lost: The Complete First Season' and 'Lost: The Complete Second Season' on Blu-ray on June 16. There they will join 'Lost: The Complete Third Season' and 'Lost: The Complete Fourth Season,' which the studio previously-released on high-def in 2007.
Now, the studio has confirmed that the show's current season will also get a Blu-ray release this year, with 'Lost: The Complete Fifth Season' headed to high-def on December 8 (day-and-date with the standard DVD). With all five seasons of 'Lost' now confirmed for Blu release, the show becomes the first to see its complete series history available on high-def.
Tech specs will see all season five episodes spread across five BD-50 dual-layer discs, in 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video (1.78:1) and English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround soundtracks.
Detailed supplements have not yet been made available, but preliminary extras confirmed thus far include exclusive cast & crew interviews, deleted scenes, and Blu-ray-exclusive content.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $79.99.
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Mel Brooks Short Films to Add to 'Spaceballs' Blu-ray
GM Home Entertainment has officially announced 'Spaceballs,' packing the June Blu-ray release with hours of bonus features and Mel Brooks short films.
As previously announced, the Schwarz will be with 'Spaceballs' fans on June 16, when Fox debuts the first-ever high-def release of the film as a two-disc Blu-ray/DVD combo.
Full specs have now been detailed, with the Mel Brooks favorite receiving a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
Extras on the Blu-ray boast an audio commentary by Mel Brooks, additional "Mawgese" and "Dinkese" commentaries, four featurettes ("Spaceballs: The Documentary," "In Conversation: Mel Brooks & Thomas Meehan," "Watch the Movie in Ludicrous Speed," "John Candy: Comic Spirit"), extensive "Film Flubs" gag reels, three still galleries, storyboards and theatrical trailers.
In addition, on the standard DVD version of the film also included will be the "Spaceballs: The Totally-Warped Adventures." This animated version of the film "hilariously spoofs popular movies and television shows as only the warped mind of Mel Brooks can."
As previously announced, MGM/Fox has set the suggested retail price at $29.99.
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Cinevolve Sets May Blu-ray Date for 'Sisterhood'
Indie Cinevolve has announced it is bringing the hit English comedy 'Sisterhood' to Blu-ray in mid-May.
The British farce, which stars Isabelle Defaut and Emily Corcoran as sisters who get caught up in a mad-cap plot involving mistaken DNA, the mob, and a pair of dog costumes, will receive its Stateside Blu-ray release on May 19 (day-and-date with the standard DVD).
At press time, Cinevolve has not yet released tech specs for the release, but we'll keep you posted.
There are also no announced supplements.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set $24.95.
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New Line/Warner Announce 'Inkheart' Blu-ray/DVD Combo
New Line/Warner will bring the family fantasy 'Inkheart' to Blu-ray this June as a three-disc combo with DVD and Digital Copy.
Despite New Line hoping for 'Journey of the Center of the Earth 3-D'-level grosses for the Brendan Frasier adventure, 'Inkheart' limped to a meager $17 million domestic box office gross.
New Line, via Warner Home Video, will release the Blu-ray June 23, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/VC-1 video (2.40:1) and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras include a trio of featurettes ("Eliza Reads to Us," "A Story from the Cast and Crew," "From Imagination to the page: How writers Write") and deleted scenes.
Two additional discs in the set will include a DVD and Digital Copy of the film, the latter compatible with PCs and iTunes.
Suggested list price has been set at $38.95.
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'Confessions of a Shopaholic' Coming in June
In an early announcement to retailers, Disney has set a late-June Blu-ray arrival for the romantic comedy 'Confessions of a Shopaholic.'
Starring Isla Fisher and Hugh Dancy, 'Shopaholic' received mixed critical notices and decent box office, scoring $50 million domestically during its theatrical run earlier this year.
Disney will debut the Blu-ray as a two-disc set on June 23, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video (2.40:1) and a English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
A second disc will come with a Digital Copy of the film, compatible with PCs and iTunes.
No word on bonus features as of yet, but we'll keep you posted.
Suggested list price has been set at $39.99.
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UPDATED: 'Friday the 13th' Sequels Get June Blu-ray Date
UPDATE: (04/15/09, 9:45pm ET) We've just received word from Paramount that the Blu-ray of 'Friday the 13th Part 3' will include both 2-D and 3-D versions of the film. All other specs and features remain unchanged. We've updated our database accordingly.
Jason is coming back to high-def, with Paramount announcing a June blu-ray release for the stalker sequels 'Friday the 13th Part 2' and 'Friday the 13th Part 3.'
Though both films have been available overseas on Blu-ray for several months, they were conspicuously absent when Paramount announced domestic DVD re-issues of the original trilogy earlier this year (with only the first 'Friday the 13th' receiving a Stateside Blu-ray release).
Fans can now mark June 16 on their calendars, when the studio will belatedly issue 'Part 2' and 'Part 3' as special edition DVD releases.
Tech specs for both titles will see BD-50 dual-layer presentations with 1080p video and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround tracks. ('Part 3' has been confirmed as being presented in 2-D only, with no 3-D version offered.)
Extras on 'Part 2' will mirror the previous DVD, including two featurettes, newly-produced "missing murder scenes" and the original trailer.
Unlike the domestic DVD re-issue of 'Part 3' (which included a 3-D version but came sans extras), the Blu-ray will include the bonus materials found on the overseas version, including three featurettes ("Fresh Cuts: 3D Terror ," "Legacy of the Mask," "Slasher Films: Going for the Jugular"), "Lost Tales from Camp Blood, Part 3" short films, and the trailer.
Suggested retail price for each Blu-ray has been set at $29.99.
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Disney Sets July Blu-ray Release for 'The Waterboy'
Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment is bringing the Adam Sandler blockbuster comedy 'The Waterboy' to Blu-ray in late-July.
The 1998 sleeper smash, which grossed over $150 million and proved without a doubt that Sandler was a huge box office draw, will receive its Blu-ray debut on July 28 (Disney previously released a DVD version).
The studio has yet to reveal any tech or supplement details, but watch for complete specs to arrive in the days ahead.
Suggested retail price for each Blu-ray has been set at $39.99.
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Sony to Bring 'Fired Up!' Unrated to Blu-ray
Sony Pictures has set an early-June release for an unrated Blu-ray version of the cheerleading comedy 'Fired Up!'
Though it barely made a blip at the domestic box office (drumming up a meager $17 million gross), Sony hopes that the unrated hijinks will boost its video appeal when it releases the film on Blu-ray June 9 (day-and-date with the standard DVD).
Tech specs will see 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video (2.40:1) and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras include audio commentary (with director Will Gluck, Nicholas D'Agosto and Eric Christian Olsen), multiple featurettes ("This is Not a Cheerleading Movie: The Making of Fired Up!", "Double Duty," "Fired Up! Press Junket - Hour 12") and an uncensored gag reel.
At press time, Sony has announced an R-rated version for DVD, but we have yet to receive a confirmation on a Blu-ray counterpart. We'll keep you posted.
Suggested retail price for the unrated Blu-ray has been set at $38.95.
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'Santa Buddies' to Arrive on Blu-ray this November
Announcing its latest direct-to-high-def premiere release, Walt Disney Studios will bring the canine comedy 'Santa Buddies' to Blu-ray in late-November.
The latest DTV sequel to the studio's 'Buddies' series, 'Santa Buddies' has been given an early announcement, well ahead of its planned November 24 Blu-ray release (day-and-date with the standard DVD).
The second 'Buddies' title to hit Blu-ray, 'Santa Buddies' follows 'Space Buddies,' which Disney released on high-def earlier this year.
Due to the long lead time, there are no tech or supplement specs known at this time, other than that the set will also include a DVD copy of the film. We expect final details from Disney in the coming months, so we'll keep you posted.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.99.
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First Look: Disney Unveils 'Snow White' Blu-ray Box Art
It's debut is still months away, but we've got an early peek at the box art for the highly-anticipated Blu-ray release of Disney's 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.'
As previously reported, the studio will be launching 'Snow White' as the next title in it's Platinum Edition series as a Blu-ray/DVD combo pack, with a street date of October 6 (a precedent-setting seven weeks before the stand-alone DVD re-issue).
Though the studio has yet to reveal full specs and bonus features, they have unpeeled the apple a bit further by revealing the high-res box art for the highly-anticipated release:
(http://i238.photobucket.com/albums/ff146/chuck427/original-2.jpg)
Final details are expected in the weeks ahead, so watch this space.
As announced, Disney has set the suggested retail price for the Blu-ray at $39.99.
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'Glory' Blu-ray Gets Specs, Exclusives
Sony Pictures has confirmed final specs for the long-delayed Blu-ray release of 'Glory,' which will arrive this June with extensive bonus features and exclusives.
As previously reported, Sony finally re-announced the Oscar-winning drama for a June 2 Blu-ray debut, after a delay of over a year.
Just-announced tech specs include a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video (1.85:1) and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround tracks in English, French, and Portuguese.
Supplements carried over from the previous special edition DVD release include audio commentary with director Edward Zwick, three featurettes ("The Voices of Glory," "The True Story Continues," "The Making of Glory") and deleted scenes.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray is the "Virtual Civil War Battlefield" interactive map and BD-Live connectivity.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $28.95.
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Fox Details '24' Seventh Season Blu-ray Specs
Final specs and box art are in for '24: Season 7,' which Fox will bring to Blu-ray this June as six-disc set with multiple bonus features.
As previously reported, Fox announced plans to bring the show's latest 24-episode arc to Blu-ray on May 19, day-and-date with the standard DVD and only one day after the show's season finale.
Final specs will see six BD-50 dual-layer discs, which present all 24 episodes in 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video (1.78:1) with English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround tracks.
Confirmed extras include audio commentaries on select episodes, a making-of featurette, and deleted scenes.
As previously announced, suggested retail price has been set at $69.99.
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Universal Preview Offers First News on 'Battlestar Galactica' Blu-ray
Universal has attached a new video trailer to this month's DVD release of 'Battlestar Galactica: Caprica,' previewing a first look at a still-unscheduled box set of the show's complete series for Blu-ray release.
Now arriving in stores, the direct-to-video 'Battlestar'-inspired movie 'Caprica' contains a video promo before its main menu. The spot heralds an upcoming complete series release of the cult sensation, complete with featurettes, deleted scenes, additional features, and an uncut version of the movie 'Razor.'
The spot ends by advertising the still-unnamed set as "Coming Soon to DVD and Blu-ray High-Def," though no exact release date is given.
The promo follows weeks of Internet rumor and speculation, including reports of a July 28 street date for both the Blu-ray and DVD versions.
At press time, there is no further official information available from Universal about what is sure to be one of the year's most eagerly-anticipated Blu-ray TV-on-high-def releases. We'll definitely keep you posted as soon as further word comes from the studio.
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Sharp and Pioneer Plan to Merge Optical Disc Businesses
Sharp and Pioneer have announced that they plan to merge their individual optical discs businesses into a single joint venture this October. Originally announced as part of Pioneer's restructuring plan, the joint venture will allow the two companies to consolidate their technology in order to improve their products.
The move will benefit both companies as they fight to gain a leading position in the growing Blu-ray market. To date, the two companies have failed to maintain Blu-ray Disc player sales equivalent to leading rivals Sony, Samsung, and Panasonic, and they are hopeful that a joint venture will allow them to be more competitive.
Sharp is the largest shareholder of Pioneer stock at 14%.
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Sony Adds BD-Live Features to Click to Disc Software
Sony has added BD-Live features to their Click to Disc authoring software in Japan, and for the first time, consumers are now able to author their own BD-Live Blu-ray discs. Among the features added during the v2.0 update are the ability to provide a link to a Picasa web album, and use Google Maps to to map GPS tagged photos.
In order to demonstrate the features, Sony has provided two Flash demos that give a glimpse of what the end product will look like. They are in Japanese, but luckily Sony has provided text to show you exactly where to click.
http://www.vaio.sony.co.jp/Products/Solution/ClicktoDisc/pop_specialflash_05.html (http://www.vaio.sony.co.jp/Products/Solution/ClicktoDisc/pop_specialflash_05.html)
http://www.vaio.sony.co.jp/Products/Solution/ClicktoDisc/pop_specialflash_04.html (http://www.vaio.sony.co.jp/Products/Solution/ClicktoDisc/pop_specialflash_04.html)
There is currently on announced date for the software update outside of Japan, but it is expected within the next few months.
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Shamo Coming to Blu-ray in May
Tai Seng Entertainment has announced that they will bring the action film 'Shamo' to Blu-ray on May 26th. Video will be presented in 1080p accompanied by a Cantonese 7.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtrack. The special features for this release include a making of featurette and trailer.
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Iron Maiden Documentary Coming in May
A new documentary called 'Iron Maiden: Flight 666' will be released on Blu-ray May 25th, day-and-date with the DVD release. The film will document the legendary heavy metal band's "Somewhere Back In Time" 2008 world tour. The second disc will feature 16 different songs from the tour. No other details have been announced at this time.
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Details Revealed for The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
MGM Home Entertainment in conjunction with 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment have announced the technical specs and special features for the upcoming Blu-ray release Sergio Leone's 'The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly', which is due to hit store shelves on May 12th. Video will be presented in 1080p AVC accompanied by a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Extras for this release include:
* Audio Commentary from Film Historian Richard Schickel
* Audio Commentary from Christopher Frayling
* Leones West
* The Leone Style
* The Man Who Lost the Civil War
* Reconstructing “The Good, The Bad and the Ugly”
* IL Maestro: Ennio Morricone and “The Good, The Bad and the Ugly” Part One
* IL Maestro: Part Two
* Deleted Scenes
* Easter Eggs
o #1 Uno, Due, Tre
o #2 Italian Lunch
o #3 New York Actor
o #4 Gun in Holster
* Trailers
o Original Trailer
o French Trailer
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Lord of the Rings Pre-order Now Available!
In an early announcement to retailers, New Line Home Entertainment in conjunction with Warner Home Video have revealed the cover art for 'The Lord of the Rings Trilogy' Blu-ray and Amazon has begun taking pre-orders. The release currently does not have a release date, but it is expected to be released later this year - most likely during the holiday season.
No technical specs or special features have been revealed at this time, but you can expect to see 1080p VC-1 video accompanied by a Dolby TrueHD soundtrack.
The only potentially negative news here is that the films will be presented in their theatrical versions instead of the more popular (and more faithful) extended versions. This is not entirely surprising as Warner made it well known early on that the theatrical versions would be released first, with the extended versions coming sometime later (likely around the theatrical release of 'The Hobbit'). However, any hope of the 2009 release using seamless branching to show both versions has now been washed away.
But, that doesn't take away from the fact that this is indeed 'The Lord of the Rings' - three films which together grossed more than $1B domestically - in high definition. This is one of the releases Blu-ray fans have been begging for, and you can bet this is going to be one of the best selling Blu-ray titles this year.
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^^ just adding.... this is the cover art for The Lord of the Rings Trilogy (Theatrical Version)
(http://images.blu-ray.com/movies/covers/5174_front.jpg)
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. . . deleting post . . . just noticed its only the Theatrical Version.
sayang why not release the extended ver. instead
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. . . deleting post . . . just noticed its only the Theatrical Version.
sayang why not release the extended ver. instead
maybe because of the economic situation :)
and it's also a sales strategy... those "kating-kati" will buy the theatrical version upon release... then they will buy again once the extended is released (especially those HD enthusiast/LOTR fans) :D :D :D
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After waiting so long, only a Theatrical Version? No wonder all the LOTR blu fans are gnashing their teeths & bashing New Line...check out the Amazon pre-order feedbacks. ;D
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After waiting so long, only a Theatrical Version? No wonder all the LOTR blu fans are gnashing their teeths & bashing New Line...check out the Amazon pre-order feedbacks. ;D
im thinking NewLine is waiting for The Hobbit to be released...that would be a good marketing plan...
maybe because of the economic situation :)
and it's also a sales strategy... those "kating-kati" will buy the theatrical version upon release... then they will buy again once the extended is released (especially those HD enthusiast/LOTR fans) :D :D :D
sad to say, ill be one of those people buying this..then buying the extended version when it comes out...
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Allegro to Bring Five Documentary Titles to Blu-ray
Allegro Entertainment is bringing a wave of five special interest titles to Blu-ray in mid-May.
Running the gamut from nature to agriculture, Allegro will release the following on May 12: 'Amazing Journeys,' 'The Amazon: River of the Sun,' 'Flowers & Gardens,' 'Lost Worlds: Life in the Balance' and 'North America's National Parks.'
The company has yet to issue any tech specs, but we'll keep you posted.
At press time, there are no announced extras.
Suggested list price for each title has been set at $24.98, except for 'Flowers & Garden,' which will retail for $14.98.
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Fox Reveals 'Burn Notice: Season Two' Blu-ray Specs
Fox has outlined final specs for 'Burn Notice: Season Two,' which comes to Blu-ray this June as a three-disc set with multiple bonus features.
As previously announced, Fox will bring the show's second season (but the first to hit high-def) to Blu-ray on June 16.
Final specs will see all sixteen episodes spread across three BD-50 dual-layer discs, presented in 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video (1.78:1) and English DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround.
Extras include audio commentaries on three episodes ("Bad Blood," "Double Booked," "Lesser Evil"), the "Nixin' It Up" featurette, and deleted scenes.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $69.99.
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Blu-ray to Take You 'Home' this June
Fox has announced they are bringing the acclaimed Yann Arthus-Bertrand documentary 'Home' to Blu-ray in early-June.
Narrated by Glenn Close, 'Home' takes us on a journey exploring Planet Earth from above, with famed aerial photographer Arthus-Bertrand capturing some of the most spectacular views even seen on film.
Fox will debut the documentary on Blu-ray June 5, day-and-date with the standard DVD, and the same day it debuts theatrically in its native France.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround.
There are no announced extras.
Suggested list price has been set at $39.99.
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Iron Maiden to Launch 'Flight 666' on Blu-ray
Metal legends Iron Maiden are launching their first-ever high-def release, bringing the concert film 'Flight 666' to Blu-ray this May.
Chronicling the band's "Somewhere Back In Time" 2008 world tour, the two-disc set will include a full-length tour documentary on disc one, with the second disc featuring 16 songs from the tour.
There are no tech or supplement specs as of yet, but the package is promised to be an extensive one, so watch for plenty of goodies.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.99.
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Disney Brings Multiple Blu-ray Collector's Versions of 'Snow White'
Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment has unveiled plans to release no less than five different permutations of 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' when it brings the classic to Blu-ray this October.
In addition to the standard Blu-ray/DVD combo version previously announced, which comes housed in Blu-ray keepcase packaging, the studio will also make a 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (DVD Packaging)' version available, which comes housed in a standard DVD case for households not yet ready to make the switch to the high-def format.
In addition, Disney is making three separate special editions available for collectors. Each comes house with deluxe packaging and other collectible items.
The 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (Collectors Book Set)' comes with the Blu-ray/DVD combo plus a hardcover book. Suggested list price is $59.99.
For an MSRP of $79.99, 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (Dwarf Plush Gift Set)' will get you the Blu-ray release, along with a plush toy of one of the film's seven dwarfs.
FInally, specs for the mammoth 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (Limited Edition Collectors Set)' has yet to be outlined, but with an MSRP of $249.99, is sure to be packed with assorted goodies and treasures.
As announced, all five releases are set to debut simultaneously on October 6.
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'For All Mankind' Coming to Blu-ray
'For All Mankind' is touching down on high-def, with Criterion announcing a feature-laden Blu-ray edition of the documentary classic for release this July.
Chronicling NASA's unforgettable Apollo moon landings of the late '60s, 'For All Mankind' contains some of the most breathtaking footage seen of human space travel.
Criterion will debut this classic on Blu-ray July 14, day-and-date with a new DVD re-issue.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video (1.33:1) and a remixed DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
Extras include audio commentary (featuring Reinert and Apollo 17 commander Eugene A. Cernan), the documentary "An Accidental Gift: The Making of 'For All Mankind,'" an "On Camera" collection of NASA interviews, a video program of gallery artwork, NASA footage, the trailer, and a booklet.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $28.95
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Criterion to Bring 'Repulsion' to Blu-ray
Criterion has announced its latest classic for Blu-ray release, setting a late-July date for Roman Polanski's 'Repulsion.'
The highly-influential 1965 horror-art film, which helped usher in a new wave of psychological fear cinema and introduced Stateside audiences to star Catherine Deneuve, will receive its Blu-ray debut on July 28.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video (1.85:1) and an uncompressed PCM 1.0 Mono track.
Extras include audio commentary (with Polanski and Deneuve), the "A British Horror Film" documentary, a 1964 television documentary, the trailer and a booklet.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.99.
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'Friday the 13th' Remake Hacks Blu-ray with 'Killer Cut,' Exclusives
Jason is slashing his way back to Blu-ray with Warner Home Video announcing an extended cut of the horror remake 'Friday the 13th' due this June.
The latest '80s slasher classic to receive the remake treatment, the retooled 'Friday the 13th' scared up a record-setting $40 million in its opening weekend.
The Michael Bay-produced update will make its way to Blu-ray on June 16, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Featuring a new "Killer Cut" of the film with footage not seen in theaters plus the R-rated theatrical cut (accessible via seamless branching), tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p video and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras include the "Explore the Rebirth of Jason Voorhees" featurette and additional "slashed" scenes.
Exclusive to the Bu-ray is the "Terror Trivia" factoid track, the "Hacking Back/Slashing Forward" and "The 7 Best Kills" featurettes, and BD-Live connectivity.
Also included on a second disc is a Digital Copy of both the extended and rated versions of the film, compatible with PCs and iTunes.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $35.98.
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Fox Details 'Taken' Blu-ray
Fox has officially announced 'Taken,' which will come to Blu-ray this May in an extended cut version with multiple bonus features and Digital Copy.
As previously reported, Fox dropped only a May window for the Blu-ray release of the surprise Liam Neeson kidnap thriller, but held off on any confirmed street date or specs.
The official announcement is now here, with the $140 million-grossing smash headed to Blu-ray and DVD day-and-date on May 12.
Featuring a new extended cut of the film plus the PG-13-rated theatrical version (accessible via seamless branching), tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
Extras include the audio commentary (with director Pierre Morel, screenwriter Robert Mark Kamen and cinematographers Michel Abramowicz and Michel Julienne), a pair of featurettes ("Making Of," "Avant Premiere"), a "Black OPS Field Manual" function and "Inside Action" comparisons of six scenes.
Also include on a second disc is a Digital Copy compatible with PCs and iTunes.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.99.
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Facebook Sneaks 'Mad Men: Season Two' Blu-ray Details
Lionsgate is prepping 'Mad Men: Season Two' for a Blu-ray release in July, complete with hours of bonus material, according to a new post that has appeared on the cult show's Facebook group page.
In a unique marketing move, the Mad Men Facebook Group (instead of the usual official studio announcement) unveiled box art and complete specs for 'Mad Men: Season Two,' which according to the posting will arrive on Blu-ray July 14 (day-and-date with the standard DVD).
Among the many extras are audio commentaries with cast & crew on all 13 episodes, and three featurettes ("Birth of an Independent Woman, Part 1 and Part 2," "An Era of Style" and "Time Capsule."
No tech specs were revealed, but something comparable to the previous 'Mad Men: Season One' set is expected, including 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround tracks.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $49.99.
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'Echelon Conspiracy' Eyes July Blu-ray Release
Paramount Home Entertainment has announced a late-June Blu-ray bow for the actioner 'Echelon Conspiracy.'
Starring Ving Rhames and Edward Burns, and barely rating a blip on the box office radar, Paramount will debut the little-seen thriller on Blu-ray July 21, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Tech specs will present the film in 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 video with an English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround track.
There are no announced extras.
Suggested list price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.99.
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'Last Starfighter' Bound for Blu-ray
One of the '80s most beloved cult classics is headed to Blu-ray, with Universal setting an early-August touchdown for 'The Last Starfighter.'
Released on HD DVD in early 2007, the sci-fi/videogame adventure will make its belated Blu-ray debut on August 4.
Tech specs will see a BD-50 dual-layer disc with 1080p video (1.85:1) and a DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround track.
Extras match the previous HD DVD and DVD special edition versions, including audio commentary (with director Nick Castle and production designer Ron Cobb), a retrospective featurette, still gallery and the theatrical trailer).
The disc will also come BD-Live-enabled, though at presstime no exclusive content has been announced.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.98.
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Criterion Announces For All Mankind
Criterion has announced that they will bring the NASA Apollo Missions documentary 'For All Mankind' to Blu-ray on July 14th, day-and-date with the DVD release. This will be presented in it's original aspect ratio via a 1080p AVC transfer, with 'For All Mankind' receiving a newly created 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack.
Extras for the release include:
* New, restored high-definition digital transfer, supervised and approved by producer-director Al Reinert
* Audio commentary featuring Reinert and Apollo 17 commander Eugene A. Cernan, the last man to set foot on the moon
* An Accidental Gift: The Making of “For All Mankind,” a new documentary featuring interviews with Reinert, Apollo 12 and Skylab astronaut Alan Bean, and NASA archive specialists Don Pickard, Mike Gentry, Morris Williams, and Chuck Welch
* On Camera, a collection of excerpted on-screen interviews with fifteen of the Apollo astronauts
* New video program about Bean's artwork, accompanied by a gallery of his paintings
* NASA audio highlights and liftoff footage
* Optional on-screen identification of astronauts and mission control specialists
* PLUS: A booklet featuring essays by film critic Terrence Rafferty and Reinert
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Blu-ray Players to Hit $99 This Holiday Season
As previously reported, the Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA) has recently brought the high definition format to China. In order to accomplish this, they had to not only provide the technology to create Blu-ray Discs and players to Chinese manufacturers, but also create a licensing format which would lower costs and streamline the production process. One of the advantages to the rest of the Blu-ray buying world, commented Mark Leathan, Marketing Director at Samsung, was that we will soon see the "entry of the Chinese manufacturers into the Blu ray market that we will have a $99 Blu ray player."
During last year's holiday season, Blu-ray players could be found for as low as $128, though quantities were limited due to the availability of product and the high demand for the high definition players. With sales this year predicted to be at least twice of what they were last year, it is expected that the $99 price point will become the norm for entry-level players, rather than as part of a special sales promotion.
These lower priced entries, however, will likely have little effect on major consumer electronic manufacturers. It is highly unlikely that Sony, Panasonic, and Samung will participate in entry-level game of slim-margins, and will likely leave that to the new Chinese manufactures and new products from Magnavox or Sylvania.
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Blu-ray Q1 Sales Double from Last Year
According to new research conducted by Adams Media Research, Blu-ray sales during the first quarter of the year were approximately 9 Million units, double what they were during the same period last year. The huge increase in sales can most likely be attributed to an explosion in Blu-ray enable homes, which are now estimated to be 10.5 Million.
More importantly, of the 10.5 Million US homes that have a Blu-ray player, nearly 75% (7-8 Million) own stand-alone Blu-ray players, around twice as many as the same time last year. The correlation is obvious - twice as many Blu-ray players equals twice as many Blu-ray sales.
Andy Parsons, U.S. Chairman of the Blu-ray Disc Association Promotions Committee and Senior VP of Product Planning at Pioneer Home Entertainment, commented, "We are delighted to see continuing, significant growth of the Blu-ray Disc format in the midst of one of the worst economic downturns in recent memory. I think the numbers are a clear indicator that consumers really do understand the value of packaged media, and that even when times are very tough, [consumers] continue to seek out and enjoy the best possible high-definition content."
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A few pictures (and details) of the Battlestar Galactica boxset.
http://www.thedigitalbits.com/#mytwocents
Can't frakking wait! I just love the show ;D
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Warner Announces Red2Blu Program
Posted April 22, 2009 by Josh Dreuth
Warner Home Video through their WBShop.com website has announced that they will now allow HD DVD owners to exchange their old Warner HD DVDs for the Blu-ray version. This may be the last chance for owners of the now defunct high definition format to salvage some worth from their film libraries before sacrificing the discs to the dumpster gods.
The process is simple:
1. Select the HD DVD titles you want to exchange for Blu-rays.
* Limit one exchange per title
* Upgrade fee of $4.95 per title
* Shipping fee of $6.95 per order ($8.95 per order for Hawaii, Alaska, and Puerto Rico)
2. Mail the original cover-art to Warner's processing center
3. Receive new discs in 4-5 weeks
Details of the Red2Blu program can be found ---> HERE (http://www.red2blu.com/products.html)
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'Shark Week' to Take Bite out of Blu-ray
The sharks of Discovery Channel's 'Shark Week' are serving up a Blu-ray buffet, with the July release of the compilation set 'Great Bites Collection.'
Compiling the best moments from the popular Discovery Channel series, 'Shark Week: Great Bites Collection' swims to high-def July 14, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
Tech specs will see the complete 356-minute program spread over two discs, presented in 1080 video and Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround audio.
At press time, there are no announced extras, but we'll keep you posted on any future updates.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.98.
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Diana Krall to Release first Blu-ray with 'Live in Rio'
Songstress Diana Krall is stepping up to the Blu-ray stage for the first time, with the late-May release of her 2008 concert film 'Live in Rio.'
Featuring nearly two dozen of her biggest hits and classic jazz standards, 'Diana Krall: Live in Rio' arrives on Blu-ray May 26 via Eagle Vision (day-and-date with the standard DVD).
There are no tech specs as of yet, but expect 1080 video and some sort of high-res audio.
There are no announced extras.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $24.98.
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Warner Reveals Final 'Friday the 13th' Blu-ray Specs
The full bloody details are in for 'Friday the 13th,' which will slice up Blu-ray this June with an extended cut of the film and Digital Copy.
As previously reported, Warner Home Video had set a June 16 date for the Michael Bay-produced horror redux, and revealed early specs and supplement details.
The full splatter has now been confirmed, with Jason's latest exploits receiving the BD-50 dual-layer treatment with 1080p/VC-1 video (2.39:1) and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround track. The disc will contain both the R-rated and never-before-seen "Killer Cut" versions of the film available via seamless branching.
Extras include the "Explore the Rebirth of Jason Voorhees" featurette and additional "slashed" scenes.
Exclusive to the Blu-ray is the "Terror Trivia" factoid track, the "Hacking Back/Slashing Forward" and "The 7 Best Kills" featurettes, and BD-Live connectivity.
Also included on a second disc is a Digital Copy of both the extended and rated versions of the film, compatible with PCs and iTunes.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $35.98.
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B.B. King 'Montreux' Concert Coming to Blu-ray
Eagle Rock has announced the latest Blu-ray in its Montreux music series, setting an early-June date for a live concert from B.B. King.
Featuring two hours of the legendary bluesman's best-known classics and covers, 'B.B. King: Live At Montreux 1993' will hit Blu-ray on June 2.
Tech specs will see 1080 video (1.78:1) and audio tracks in DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 Surround and PCM 2.0 Stereo.
There are no announced extras.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $24.98.
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A&E to Launch 'Crusades' on Blu-ray this September
In an early announcement, A&E has set an early-September Blu-ray release for the acclaimed History Channel documentary 'The Crusades: Crescent & the Cross.'
Narrated by Keith David and mixing CGI with live-action recreations, this 2005 broadcast special will receive a September 2 Blu-ray debut via A&E Home Video.
There are few tech specs announced beyond 1080 video (1.78:1), and no announced supplement features. Watch this space for further updates as they come to us.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $29.98.
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Liberation Brings 'Tokyo!' Anthology to Blu-ray
Newcomer Liberation Entertainment has announced its debut Blu-ray release, setting a late-June date for the Japanese anthology 'Tokyo!'
Billed as a "surreal triptych" that addresses the "timeless question of whether we shape cities, or cities shape us." Directing the three segments are acclaimed filmmakers Michel Gondry, Leos Carax, and Bong Joon-Ho.
Liberation has yet to provide us with tech or supplement specs, but we'll keep you posted as further word comes to us.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.95.
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'Knowing' Gets July Blu-ray Date
The end of the world is nigh on Blu-ray, with Summit Entertainment announcing an early-July release for the hit sci-fi yarn 'Knowing.'
The Nicolas Cage-starrer defied critical slings and arrows to emerge as one of Spring's bigger sleepers, eventually grossing over $60 million domestically. Summit will release the Blu-ray July 7, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
We have yet to receive any tech specs or supplement details, but as always, watch this space.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $34.98.
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Kenneth Anger Shorts Announced for Blu-ray
The British Film Institute (BFI) has announced that they will bring 'The Magick Lantern' to Blu-ray on May 25th, day-and-date with the DVD release. This collection of ten classic Kenneth Anger experimental short films will be presented in 1080p AVC high definition video. No audio spec has been announced at this time.
Extras for this release include:
* Newly recorded commentaries by Kenneth Anger
* The Man We Want to Hang (2002) – Anger's film on the art of Aleister Crowley
* Restoration work demo
* Anger Me (2006) – Elio Gelmini's portrait of Kenneth Anger
* Illustrated booklet containing Modesty and the Art of Film (1951), an original article by Kenneth Anger; The Crowned and Conquering Child (2008), a newly commissioned essay by author Gary Lachman; and film credits
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3D: The New Format War
At the NABShow this year, which starts tomorrow in Las Vegas, one thing is going to be very clear - 3D Blu-ray is no closer to being a reality than it was last year. Unfortunately, the problem - once again - comes down to too many companies wanting to use their own standard for 3D home presentation. For DVD, it took so long to decide on a single 3D format - until January of this year - that no one seems to care. Unfortunately, 3D on Blu-ray may be positioning itself for a similar failure.
The Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE) is expected to being talks on a standardized 3D format this summer, but that will likely have to wait to be published until mid-2010. The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is also working on their own, separate standard which would make the choice of 3D technology irrelevant. Brian Markwalter, VP of Technology and Standards at CEA explains, "You want to mix and match with the least amount of pain and make them independent of how the studios mastered the content and whether it got there through a Blu-ray disc or (another delivery system)."
Meanwhile, consumer electronics manufacturers are moving forward with their own technology. Panasonic made the biggest splash at this year's CES by showing off their working 3D Blu-ray technology, but it is unlikely that other manufacturers would willingly adapt the specs (and pay Panasonic royalty fees). JVC and Mitsubishi have 3D HDTVs on the market, but neither have plans for providing a player (of any format) to generate the content. Sony is not commenting at all.
The one group that could help drive a standard is the Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA), but they too are stepping quietly in the 3D arena. Andy Parson, spokesperson for the BDA, stated, "We are interested in studying the possibilities of joining together the best high-definition technology with 3-D applications to create a superior consumer home theater experience." He was, however, unable to provide a date when such a study may start.
With a year lead-time required to put 3D products in the market place, it is now unlikely we will see a 3D Blu-ray standard approved before next year, and therefore, no products before 2011. And by then, it may already be too late.
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Sony Serves Up 'International' Blu-ray Exclusives
Sony Pictures has just revealed final specs for 'The International,' which comes to Blu-ray this June with hours of bonus features, exclusive content and Digital Copy.
As previously reported, Sony set a June 9 Blu-ray release for the Clive Owen-Naomi Watts actioner (day-and-date with the standard DVD), but issued no specs or other information.
Full details have now been issued, with the box office underachiever receiving a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080/AVC MPEG-4 video and English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 Surround audio.
Extras include audio commentary (with director Tom Tykwer and screenwriter Eric Singer), a quartet of featurettes ("The Making of The International," "Shooting at the Guggenheim," "The Autostadt," "The Architecture of The International") and deleted scenes.
Just-confirmed exclusive content boasts a picture-in-picture track with behind-the-scenes footage and interviews, and BD-Live connectivity.
A second, standard DVD disc is also included with Digital Copy, compatible with PCs, PSP, and iTunes.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $39.95.
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'Return to Forever' Goes to Montreux for First Blu-ray Release
Return to Forever is prepping their first Blu-ray concert release, announcing a mid-May release of their 2008 reunion tour film 'Live in Montreux.'
Featuring jazz legends Chick Corea, Stanley Clarke, Al Di Meola, and Lenny White, 'Return to Forever: Return - Live at Montreux' features over a dozen songs culled from a stop on the bands 25th anniversary reunion tour.
Eagle Rock will release the Blu-ray May 12, day-and-date with the standard DVD.
There are no tech specs as of yet, but expect 1080 video and some sort of high-res audio.
There are no announced extras.
Suggested retail price for the Blu-ray has been set at $24.98.
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Fire and Ice Announced for Blu-ray
Blue Underground has announced that they with bring the 1983 animated film 'Fire and Ice' to Blu-ray on August 25th. Directed by Ralph Bakshi ('Fritz the Cat', 'Wizards', and the animated 'The Lord of the Rings') and featuring animator Frank Frazetta ('Conan the Barbarian' and 'Vampirella'), the film will be presented in 1080p video accompanied by both 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio and 7.1 Dolby TrueHD soundtracks.
Extras for this release include:
* Audio Commentary with Producer/Director Ralph Bakshi
* The Making of FIRE AND ICE
* Bakshi on Frazetta
* Sean Hannon's Diary Notes
* Behind-the-Scenes Photo Gallery
* Theatrical Trailer
* D-Box
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Children of the Corn and M*A*S*H See Delays
Anchor Bay Home Entertainment has just send not that their upcoming Blu-ray release of 'Children of the Corn' has been delayed until August 25th. Originally scheduled for July 28th, it doesn't appear that any of the technical specs or special features have changed with the date shift. No reason was provided for the delay, but it may have to do with a delay in the release of the upcoming TV remake.
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http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=2837
Rumored: Gladiator, Braveheart, 48hours, etc. Man give me titanic ;D. More and more titles coming to blu-ray. Great news imo :)..More and more reasons to go blu/hidef ;D
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Good news indeed & hope it will come true.
Looks like Sept is a great month! :D
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additional good news for us...
Blu-ray Disc player production cost to fall to US$50 in 2010, say Taiwan makers
Yen-Shyang Hwang, Taipei; Adam Hwang, DIGITIMES [Friday 19 June 2009]
Taiwan-based optical disc drive (ODD) makers, in response to the offer of a Blu-ray Disc (BD) player model by US department store Sears for US$99.99, expect production costs of BD players to gradually drop to US$50 in 2010, according to industry sources in Taiwan.
The BD player model being offered by Sears for online purchase is a refurbished Magnavox RNB500MG9.
Current production costs of a BD player are about US$100, with pick-up heads and chipsets accounting for 50% and 25% respectively, the sources noted. With more and more makers of the two key components and increasing yield rates, production costs are expected to keep decreasing to a level of US$50 in 2010, the sources said.
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Terminator 2 Skynet Blu-ray Wins Award
Posted July 7, 2009 @ bluray.com
(http://images.blu-ray.com/movies/covers/4024_medium.jpg)
Lionsgate Films --- The International Digital Media Alliance (IDMA) has awarded the recently Lionsgate Home Entertainment Blu-ray release of 'Terminator 2: Skynet Edition' for "Excellence in Advanced Interactivity". The advanced programming of the disc - which utilizes softronic's Kaleidoscope platform - immerses viewers into the world of the Terminator using advanced menu systems and a level of interactivity not previously seen.
Nils Hammerich of softronic commented, "The Skynet edition of ‘Terminator 2: Judgement Day' is the most comprehensive worldwide Blu-ray production so far. It sets a new milestone in the development of this format. Fans will be able to watch the outstanding feature with the numerous Blu-ray features in a new way that immerses them to an extent never experienced before. Furthermore this BD is an imposing showcase for what is possible with Kaleidoscope which was used for the entire disc."
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Cameron Talks Avatar Redux, 3D, Titanic, Abyss/True Lies Blu-ray
In an interview with USA Today, James Cameron revealed that Fox is considering a theatrical rerelease of Avatar in the fall, possibly in an extended cut. This might affect the 3D Blu-ray release of the movie, although Cameron is still hoping for a fall street date. The Canadian filmmaker is highly enthusiastic about 3D, but he also warned the industry against the temptation to "put bad 3D in the marketplace." He is okay with converting 2D content to 3D but only "if it's done well" and preferably "driven by the artist." Indeed, he intends to convert Titanic to 3D for a theatrical rerelease in 2012. He also expects to start working soon on the Blu-ray release of The Abyss and True Lies.
Regarding 3D in general, Cameron said: "We've demonstrated that the 3D market is an extremely lucrative market and this is not a fad." Admittedly, the arrival of 3D TVs will change the situation once again, but he expected them to take a while to catch on because "there isn't enough content."
Cameron expects people will buy 3D TVs because of future-proofing. "If they're going to buy a 55- or 65-inch monitor they want to make a decision that they're going to feel good about three or four years from now. But right now we've got a content gap."
That lack of 3D content for the home can't be filled by movies, because "we can't make them fast enough. So it's going to have be filled by live production or near-live production." He revealed that live 3D television is relatively cheap; however, any visual effects work done in 3D gets "a significant uptick in the cost of production."
With theaters, the problem is the opposite: the industry is generating the content "but the screens weren't there." In his opinion, more 3D theater screens are needed because "now you're going to have film coming upon film coming upon film."
Cameron made a thinly-veiled jab at Warner Brothers for their 3D conversion of Clash of the Titans, thinking they could do in eight weeks what took several years for the Avatar team. "If people put bad 3D in the marketplace," Cameron quipped, "they're going to hold back or even threaten the emerging of 3D. People will be confused by differences in quality." The audience doesn't know if there is something wrong with the glasses, the TV or the production.
When asked if existing films should be converted to 3D, Cameron was in favor, but if it's done well. "I think it should be driven by the artist," he opined. If the director is no longer alive, the people that own the library have the right to do it, "particularly if they own the rights to all media." However, not all content can be converted to 3D economically. And "if you use some automated process or some cost-effective process for that type of programming its going to look like crap. It's like colorization looked like crap." At any rate, converted films can't look as good as if you shot it in 3D. "Think of it as sort of 2.8D," he illustrated. Regarding the time needed for a 3D conversion, Cameron guessed that six months to a year were needed "to do it right."
A 3D version of Titanic is in the cards for a release in spring of 2012, 100 years after the sailing of the ship.
As to the burning question of when Avatar is coming out on 3D Blu-ray, he said: "We're not officially announcing it right now but I'm hoping for fall." A new development is that the movie might be rereleased this fall, as there might be untapped demand for the movie in theaters because it lost many 3D screens when Alice in Wonderland opened. He and the studio are talking about putting in additional footage. According to The Hollywood Reporter, there are about 10-12 minutes of extra scenes which were cut relatively late and should be ready to add to a possible extended cut: one scene has to do with Jake Sully's avatar proving himself to the Na'vi people; the other involves a native festival during which tribe member Tsu'tey gets drunk.
In other news, during the Samsung launch event, James Cameron was asked about his future plans. Cameron confirmed that, apart from the 3D Titanic project, his other projects this year involved bringing The Abyss and True Lies to Blu-ray. That doesn't mean that both or any of those movies will be released during 2010, but at least work is going to begin on them this year.
Blu-ray.com
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Gladiator Anniversary Blu-ray Delayed
Just a week after announcing Gladiator: 10th Anniversary Edition , the Germany branch of Universal Studios Home Entertainment has announced that this Blu-ray release has been postponed. The studio has not given a new date, or any reasons for the delay, although it's been speculated that it might have been moved to the fall, to tie in with the home video release of Robin Hood.
Blu-ray.com
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Makers of Avatar Unveil Blu-ray Launch
Release details
As previously reported, Avatar will be available on Blu-ray on April 22. The release will not include any supplemental features - only the film and corresponding menu, utilizing the disc's entire storage space in order to provide the highest quality optimal picture and sound. "We wanted the best presentation of any film in the history of the Blu-ray and DVD formats," said Landau. "Our launch into the home in April will allow fans to return to Pandora again and again."
During the press conference, it was revealed that 20th Century Fox is foregoing any trailers or advertising. "The Blu-ray is going to be pure movie", summed up Landau. Half-jokingly, James Cameron said that he has an unwritten deal with Fox, according to which "any time one of my movies makes more than a billion dollars we leave all the crap trailers off". He admitted, "I can't stand them any more than you can."
Cameron confirmed that the Blu-ray release would have an aspect ratio of 1.78:1 (or 16:9), which he considers the "highest and best for this movie." The movie was finished in 16:9, so for the Blu-ray they went to that master, without any pan-and-scan or blow-up. Cameron explained that that "little bit of extra frame" enhances the sense of height, especially in the flight sequences. He clarified that he loves the scope ratio compositionally, but he fell in love with the movie in 16:9 and prefers to watch it in this aspect ratio.
Although the press conference was focused on the upcoming April release, Jon Landau also commented on the November special edition, which will have added-value content, including a "full filmmaker's journey" and branching video.
Avatar Program
To bridge the gap between the April and November releases, Fox is launching the interactive "Avatar Program." Through a unique code found inside the Avatar Blu-ray/DVD, consumers can register at avatarmovie.com and gain exclusive access to first-look bonus materials, special content and money saving offers (reportedly, registered users will receive an e-coupon good towards the purchase of the future special-edition Blu-ray of Avatar.
Additionally, only registered fans will be able to adopt one of the one million trees being planted on behalf of Earth Day and receive a virtual hometree they can locate on a map to see where it's actually planted (see below).
Other Avatar digital initiatives include:
-Pandorama: Via a computer's webcam users can immerse themselves into the world of Pandora, inserting themselves into different locations from the movie and interacting with the elements in each; users can snap postcards and share amongst friends only at Pandorama.
-Pandorapedia: The official guide to the world of Pandora and James Cameron's Avatar, fans enter a world beyond imagination with hundreds of facts on Pandora that can be accessed online.
-Immersive Trailer: The first-ever interactive trailer allows fans to click on any part of the video to explore detail frame-by-frame and in-context "hot spots" that will offer meticulous information on characters, locations and more.
-Interactive Desktop Wallpaper: Instant access to all things Avatar including newsfeeds, videos, social network updates and exclusive content that is updated automatically right on your desktop.
Blue goes green
Taking the Avatar message of conservation and ecological harmony, the studio and Earth Day Network, together with various organizations worldwide, will pledge to plant one million trees in 15 different countries by the end of 2010.
"I am pleased to have the opportunity to share the environmental messages from Avatar through the efforts during the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day and with Earth Day Network," said James Cameron." Earth Day Network's commitment and actions to promote a healthy, sustainable planet go hand-in-hand with the themes of Avatar."
"Avatar sends a universal message about the danger of exploiting our natural resources and brings to the forefront of the global consciousness the need to protect our planet and humanity, said Kathleen Rogers, President, Earth Day Network. "We hope this commitment from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment to plant one million trees, will inspire others to stand up against climate change for Earth Day."
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More Details of Alien Anthology Blu-ray Surface
German site Bluray-disc.de has received an advance review copy of Minority Report (which is distributed in Europe by 20th Century Fox) to find that it opens with a short teaser for the upcoming Blu-ray edition of the Alien Anthology. After the extended tagline "In space no one can hear you scream – but on Blu-ray they can," it is revealed that the Anthology will consist of the movies Alien, Aliens, Alien 3 and Alien Resurrection.
Additionally, according to the print edition of the UK movie magazine Empire, this release is being produced by Charles De Lauzirika, who is behind the BD releases of most of the movies directed by Sir Ridley Scott, including the monumental five-disc Blade Runner. De Lauzirika said that, while the Quadrilogy DVD was already very comprehensive, this Anthology Blu-ray set will blow it out of the water, with new extras and commentaries. Also, a new sound mix has been done for the extended edition of Alien 3, which involved bringing back some of the cast to reloop their dialogue.
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Blu-ray Sales Still Booming
Sales of Blu-ray Discs are up again; almost double those of last year.
Another week, another sales record. While DVD sales are down 10 percent from last year, Blu-ray sales are up to $45 million. That’s 89.17 percent over last year’s numbers; nearly twice the amount as last year.
Blu-rays still don’t make up the bulk of sales, but they account for an impressive 16 percent. DVD revenue still sits at an impressive $236.73 million. One area of note is that the increase in Blu-ray sales didn’t make up for the decrease in DVD sales. Packaged media in general was down 2.27 percent.
We’re past the format wars and past the “Will Blu-ray survive?” phase, so it’s hard to get really excited about sales numbers. There’s no one around nay-saying, so all we can really do is sit back and rest comfortably in the fact that more and more people are enjoying real high definition content.
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OMG, I really don't know what to do on its release date (jump for joy, cry out of joy, you name it ;D). Totally awesome, hopefully next year na :D ;D
Star Wars Blu-ray Set in the Works
Posted April 17, 2010 08:10 PM by Juan Calonge
20th Century FoxDuring a panel at the C2E2 comic convention in Chicago, Steve Sansweet, Lucasfilm's Director of Content Management and Head of Fan Relations, stated that the company has been working on a Star Wars Blu-ray set. "We have been at work for a couple of years working on—I won't call it the Ultimate Set because we keep finding stuff—but, a very full set of all six movies on Blu-ray with lots of extra material", said Sansweet.
Sansweet didn't give a date, but he said " it won't be in the too distant future."
The Digital Bits, quoting industry sources, says that Lucasfilm "tentatively plans the official Blu-ray release to happen in October 2011." Obviously, with the Alien Anthology coming later this year, a 2010 release of Star Wars can be safely ruled out, and considering that A New Hope opened theatrically in May 1977, late 2011 would be a natural choice for a 35th Anniversary Edition Anthology.
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Oh my...that's really an excellent news for the year! Looking forward to next year! :D
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Another wonderful news! :)
Avatar Producer Talks Ultimate Edition Blu-ray
During a recent sneak preview of the Blu-ray of Avatar, producer Jon Landau revealed some more details of the ultimate edition that will come out in November. This four-disc edition will include a brand-new two-hour documentary on making Avatar, as well as unused additional scenes from the movie, which Weta Digital is now working on.
The additional scenes involve the Na'vi school run by Dr. Augustine (Sigourney Weaver), and Jake's training as a Na'vi.
Many of the bonus features in the ultimate edition will appear in the intervening months through the Avatar Program at avatarmovie.com using a unique code found inside the Avatar Blu-ray/DVD.
Avatar is also reopening in IMAX 3D in select cities this weekend.
Blu-ray.com
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Eagerly waiting for the Star Wars Blu ray. Will be buying the same movie for the Nth time though (from VHS, VCD...) Hopefully they stuff it with a lot of extra materials... ;D Hopefully, the price is not too heavy on the pocket.
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Eagerly waiting for the Star Wars Blu ray. Will be buying the same movie for the Nth time though (from VHS, VCD...) Hopefully they stuff it with a lot of extra materials... ;D Hopefully, the price is not too heavy on the pocket.
Whoa bro, you're a SW purist pala getting all the films since the time of VHS....two tumbs up! ;)They might release this SW series with a 6-disc set & add in another 2 or 3 discs loaded with all the bonus, extras, etc... expect to pay at least $130? :o
Hopefully they may come up with two separate boxset collections: Episode 1-3 & Episode 4-6 and pricing is cheaper than the LOTR Trilogy boxset $64 each. ;D
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Avatar Blu-ray Sells 1.5m, Breaks First-Day Sales Record
According to Deadline Hollywood's Nikki Finke, quoting sources from 20th Century Fox, the Blu-ray edition of Avatar has sold 1.5 million units in the US and Canada during its first-day and has thus "blown away" the record for first-day Blu-ray sales, until now held by The Dark Knight, which had sold 600,000 units in December 9, 2008.
Note that neither Netflix nor Redbox are stocking Avatar yet, as both rental companies recently signed agreements with Fox to delay availability of titles from the studio for 28 days. Blockbuster, on the other hand, is.
Blu-ray.com
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Avatar Already Top-selling Blu-ray Ever
20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has announced that the Blu-ray edition of James Cameron's Avatar had sold 2.7 million units by Sunday afternoon, thus surpassing in four days the lifetime sales of the previous top-selling Blu-ray, The Dark Knight, which took over a year to sell 2.5 million units. Overall, Avatar has sold 6.7 million copies on packaged media.
The title has similarly smashed sales records in France, Germany and Japan, where around 60% of sales were for the Blu-ray.
Keith Feldman, general manager and exec VP of international for Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, said: "The overwhelming day one sales in key international markets — such as France and Germany — confirm the strength and vibrancy of the market, as well as the overseas appetite for high-definition product in the home."
According to the studio, Avatar has sold more copies in a single day in grocery and drug stores than The Dark Knight did in those outlets over its entire lifetime. The title is driving the sale of Blu-ray players at Best Buy.
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=4502
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The Quarterly Report: The Best Blu-rays of the Year So Far (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/High-Def_Digest/Drew_Taylor/Industry_Trends/Best_of/The_Quarterly_Report_The_Best_Blu-rays_of_the_Year_So_Far/4617)...
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Some Avatar buyers still cannot play their Blu-rays
Written by Andre "DVDBack23" Yoskowitz @ 30 Apr 2010 17:07
Thanks to a glitch, some Avatar Blu-ray owners can still not play their purchased discs, leading to understandable irritation.
http://www.afterdawn.com/news/article.cfm/2010/04/30/some_avatar_buyers_still_cannot_play_their_blu_rays
http://www.thewrap.com/article/firmware-updates-have-some-avatar-customers-seeing-red-16828
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'Quantum of Solace' Definitive Edition DVD coming this July
As director Marc Forster previously pointed out, the release of "Quantum of Solace" on DVD and Blu-Ray last year was just the first round and fans should expect a double-dip release later.
That time has now come with news that a 'Definitive Edition' two-disc DVD of Daniel Craig's second outing as James Bond is being scheduled for release on 28th July 2010.
The new souped-up edition will also feature lenticular packaging.
As with the first release, Fox will distribute the updated title.
There is no word yet on what the special features will be, but fans should expect cast & crew commentaries (missing from the first release) as well as additional behind-the-scenes content.
Perhaps the most interesting possibility though, is the inclusion of the original ending of the film that Forster cut for theatrical release. In it, Bond is seen to confront Mr White and the shadowy Guy Haines at a Quantum-owned mansion near London.
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at first the avatar bluray would not work on my ps3... good thing on the same day there was an update for it and after the upgrade; it worked flawlessly... i was really blown away by the picture and audio quality of this title... best bluray i have in my collection... i cant wait for the 2nd release this nov.... i'll get that as well... is there any news if ever they would release it in 3D in time for the release of the 3D compatible LCD and LED HDTVs?
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Avatar Sells 6.2 Million Copies on Blu-ray Worldwide
According to Deadline Hollywood's Nikki Finke, Avatar has sold 6.2 million copies on Blu-ray in its first three weeks on shelves, "more than double the industry standard for the high-definition format." James Cameron's epic is now the top-selling Blu-ray release of all time worldwide, and it has "no sign of slowing down."
Posted May 12, by Juan Calonge
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Wow...considering many still holding back (I'm one of them) for the Nov release & many more will double dip...Avatar is making the biggest killing of the year! :o
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Se7en will be released on BD by Warner on Sept. 14:
(http://images.blu-ray.com/movies/covers/7743_medium.jpg)
http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=4624
Make sure you don't get the one from Alliance Canada. They say this version is terrible:
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/511hGb7AcVL._SL160_AA115_.jpg)
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Retailer Leaks October Date for Back to the Future Blu-ray
One of the most eagerly-awaited catalog titles is definitely getting closer to an actual Blu-ray release. A Swedish home video retailer already has the Back to the Future Trilogy up for preorder, with a release date of October 27. There is no release information available, other than it will be a three-disc set.
Blu-ray.com
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Hopefully it's real this time!
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Robin Hood Blu-ray with Extended Director’s Cut
According to German specialised site bluray-disc.de, Ridley Scott's Robin Hood will be released on Blu-ray in that country on September 23. Full edition details are still pending, but it has been revealed that the feature will be presented in an extended director's cut, with approximately 26 additional minutes of footage. At the moment there is no information as to whether the 140-minute theatrical cut will also be included.
Blu-ray.com
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'Supernatural: The Complete Fifth Season' Announced for Blu-ray
Sam and Dean try to prevent the apocalypse in high-definition this September.
Warner Brothers says 'Supernatural: The Complete Fifth Season' starring Jared Padalecki and Jensen Ackles will have a Blu-ray release on September 7.
The 4-disc Blu-ray set will feature 1080p video, a Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtrack, and supplements include: Producer/writer Commentary on episode 4, "The End"; Supernatural: Apocalypse Survival Guides – Bobby's Exclusive Video Collection; Ghostfacers: The Web Series; Unaired scene from episode 9, "The Real Ghostbusters"; and a gag reel.
highdefdigest
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Finally we get to see this series in HD. :)
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Is Cloudy Meatballs... confirmed the first Blu-Ray in full 3D?
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Yup! ;)
Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (Blu-ray 3D)
(http://images3.blu-ray.com/movies/covers/9163_front.jpg)
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced the release of the first Blu-ray 3D title to be sold individually in the US: the CG animated adventure Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs. It will be available "at select retailers" from June 22 (yes, less than two weeks from now), timed with the upcoming launch of Sony Electronics' 3D capable HDTVs and Blu-ray players.
The BD will also feature 3D sneak peeks of Open Season and Monster House, also coming soon to Blu-ray 3D.
A 2D high definition version of the film will be included for viewing on existing Blu-ray players.
The 3D BD of Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs will also be offered free with the purchase of Sony 3D HDTVs.
"We are thrilled to announce the first Blu-ray 3D titles from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment," said SPHE worldwide president David Bishop. "We drove the industry in Blu-ray adoption and are now leading the way with compelling 3D content for the home. The addition of 3D showcases the versatility of Blu-ray and further demonstrates why it is being adopted by the mainstream as the home entertainment format of choice."
This Blu-ray 3D was mastered at Colorworks and authored at Sony Digital Authoring Center (DAC).
Special features include:
* 3D sneak previews:
o Open Season
o Monster House
* Early development scenes
* Extended scenes
* Progression reels with introductions by visual FX supervisor Rob Bredow
* Music Video: Miranda Cosgrove, "Raining Sunshine"
* Behind the scenes of "Raining Sunshine"
* A Recipe for Success: The Making of Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs
* Key Ingredients: The Voices of Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs
Available at Amazon: $27.99
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'Alien Anthology' Officially Announced and Detailed for Blu-ray
(http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/15/15072/original.pjpeg)
All four films in the classic sci-fi franchise are headed to Blu-ray this October!
20th Century Fox is working on the 'Alien Anthology' box set for a Blu-ray bow on October 26.
This six-disc set contains about 60 hours of special features and over 12,000 images, including material from the legendary early 1990s LaserDisc release, the "Legacy" release and the Quadrilogy DVDs and have been "reinvigorated for an intense Blu-ray high-definition viewing experience."
New content includes original screen tests of Sigourney Weaver prior to filming the original Alien, unseen deleted scenes, and the previously unseen original cut of "Wreckage and Rage: The Making of Alien3," and the "MU-TH-UR Mode," an interactive feature enabling easy access to all content on the discs.
The 6-disc set will contain the four films with 1080p video, DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 soundtracks, and full contents are as follows:
Link (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/20th_Century_Fox/Disc_Announcements/Alien_Anthology_Officially_Announced_and_Detailed_for_Blu-ray/5070)
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Wow Oct 26 will be a big day that will put a big dent in my wallet. ;D. Back to the future trilogy and Alien quadrilogy. Oh my ;) :D ;D
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yum yum
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Hope there would be a separate release for Alien & Aliens.
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Wow Oct 26 will be a big day that will put a big dent in my wallet. ;D. Back to the future trilogy and Alien quadrilogy. Oh my ;) :D ;D
Whoa lots of goodies coming this way yeah? :D
Catalog Blu-ray Wave from Fox Coming Up
The Blu-ray release of Alien Anthology, just announced, is only one aspect of Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment's yearlong campaign to honor the studio's 75th birthday. Select Fox fan-favorites are coming out on Blu-ray this year, and have just gone up for preorder (albeit without a date): The Last of the Mohicans, Moulin Rouge!, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Romeo + Juliet, and The Sound of Music.
The Sound of Music will initially be available in a Limited Edition Collector's Set, probably in the vein of recent ultimate collector's editions such as The Wizard of Oz.
Blu-ray.com
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(http://images3.blu-ray.com/movies/covers/13767_front.jpg)
The Target edition of the action blockbuster will receive exclusive metal packaging.
The first announced retailer exclusive for Jon Favreau's 'Iron Man 2' Blu-ray will include metal case packaging exclusively at Target on September 28.
The Blu-ray will feature 1080p video, a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 soundtrack, and standard supplements include: Commentary by Jon Favreau; Creating Stark Expo—A look at how the sets and computer-generated elements combine to create the massive set piece; Practical Meets Digital—How the "practical" props inform the "digital" work that ultimately brings our hero to life on screen; and four deleted and extended scenes with optional commentary by Jon Favreau.
The Blu-ray also comes loaded with a ton of exclusives including: S.H.I.E.L.D. Data Vault — Extend your knowledge of the Marvel Cinematic Universe with high-level clearance into S.H.I.E.L.D.'s digital data vault. Interact with select scenes from the movie that include new layers of graphics and insider information. View case files, dossiers, S.H.I.E.L.D. training films, tech details and more; Previsualization and Animatics; Ultimate Iron Man: The Making of Iron Man 2; Illustrated Origin: Nick Fury—A comprehensive journey into creating one of the most mysterious and influential heroes in the Marvel Universe; Illustrated Origin: Black Widow—An exciting look at the new femme fatale introduced in Iron Man 2; Illustrated Origin: War Machine—A look at the introduction of the character and how his friendship with Tony Stark resonates with fans; Working with DJ AM—Jon Favreau remembers working with Adam Goldstein; Four Blu-ray exclusive deleted and extended scenes with optional commentary by Jon Favreau; Concept art gallery; Theatrical trailers; and Music Video: AC/DC "Shoot To Thrill."
The release will also include a DVD/Digital Copy.
*Each case will be individually numbered and limited to 30,000 units. The Blu-ray release will duplicate the already announced Iron Man 2 Blu-ray release. Iron Man 2 Blu-ray Metal Case is available for pre-order from Target.com for $34.99. It has been confirmed via the forums that it will not be a SteelBook™.
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guys, anyone managed to get SHUTTER ISLAND bluray steelbook from France?
i have one collector selling me at Php1,980 sealed. is it a good price already? or too expensive?
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Wow its coming na. I can't wait
2011
George Lucas Announces Star Wars Blu-ray for 2011
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Posted August 14, 2010 02:54 PM by Juan Calonge
20th Century FoxConfirming earlier reports (see blu-ray.com, April 17), George Lucas himself announced today that the Star Wars films will be released on Blu-ray in 2011, in a six-movie box set. Speaking at the Celebration V convention in Orlando, Lucas said: "I wish I could say it was coming out this year, but it will come out next year." New, extensive special features will be featured, including documentaries, vintage behind-the-scenes moments, interviews, retrospectives and never-before-seen footage from the Lucasfilm archives.
One of those special features, a deleted scene from Return of the Jedi, premiered at the convention. In it, Luke Skywalker is seen asembling his new lightsaber before going to the palace of Jabba the Hutt.
"Blu-ray is the absolute best way to experience Star Wars at home – in pristine high definition," said George Lucas. "The films have never looked or sounded better."
In an interview with the New York Times, Lucas said that the saga hadn't been announced before because he was waiting for mass adoption of the Blu-ray format. "We've been wanting to do it as soon as we possibly could, but we just wanted to do it when enough people would be able to buy it and see it," said the filmmaker.
Lucas also clarified that the original trilogy movies will be included as they were shown theatrically in 1997 and released on DVD in 2004 - i.e., the original versions will not be included. "You have to go through and do a whole restoration on it, and you have to do that digitally," he said. "It's a very, very expensive process to do it. So when we did the transfer to digital, we only transferred really the upgraded version."
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Thanks for the fantastic news Raymond! Finally Lucas makes the official words!! :o
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Wow! Great news! saw the deleted scene from Return of The Jedi in youtube just now. Goosebumps pa din! Can't wait.
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Oh that's very good news!! It gives me ample time to save up for a possible LE as well. ;D
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Would have been nice if there was an alternative Return of the Jedi without the Ewoks... :D :D :D
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Can't wait for StarWars. ;D Excited for its release.
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Would have been nice if there was an alternative Return of the Jedi without the Ewoks... :D :D :D
Ewoks are cool with me. What I want is Phantom Menace without Jarjar or an Alternative Episode 1 for that matter hehehe.
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YES! Finally star wars on bluray! ;D ;D ;D
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Finally! now im only hoping the 2011 release date would be January 1 :D :D :D
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finally, the waiting mode is over! sure buy for me!!!
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Read that the release date will be Fall 2011. Still a long wait for us hehe
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'Toy Story 3' Announced and Detailed for Blu-ray
(http://images.blu-ray.com/movies/covers/14836_front.jpg)
Disney/Buena Vista is planning to release 'Toy Story 3' starring the voices of Tom Hanks and Tim Allen on Blu-ray on November 2.
The Blu-ray will feature 1080p video, a DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 soundtrack, and loads of supplements including: Day & Night theatrical short; Epilogue - The toys' hilarious send-off; "Toys!" - A close look at how the classic characters were updated and new toys were developed; Buzz Lightyear Mission Logs - The science of adventure; Paths to Pixar - Editorial: Pixar editors share stories of their illustrious careers; Studio Stories - Cereal Bar and Clean Start; and A Toy's Eye View - A sneak peek at Playland in Hong Kong Disney.
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/DisneyBuena_Vista/Disc_Announcements/Toy_Story_3_Announced_and_Detailed_for_Blu-ray_/5260
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Another great BD coming our way! :)