HD DVD thread - Toshiba: HD DVD DISCONTINUED, REPAIR/SUPPORT CONTINUES, NO BLU PLANS

[velvet396]

that fucking sucks. glad I bought that $100 HD-A2 from wal-mart that I'll have to ebay asap. Gave one as a gift, too. Now they'll hate me for it.

[Richlough]

that fucking sucks. glad I bought that $100 HD-A2 from wal-mart that I'll have to ebay asap. Gave one as a gift, too. Now they'll hate me for it.

Easy buddy , it'll make a great upconvert player .

[Sporadic]

that fucking sucks. glad I bought that $100 HD-A2 from wal-mart that I'll have to ebay asap. Gave one as a gift, too. Now they'll hate me for it.

This just in, HD-DVD discs no longer work and Paramount/Universal are not actually movie companies but a chain of pet stores in the eastern section of the US.

[KaneRobot]

that fucking sucks. glad I bought that $100 HD-A2 from wal-mart that I'll have to ebay asap. Gave one as a gift, too. Now they'll hate me for it.

The Golden Compass
Sweeney Todd
Atonement
Charlie Wilson's War
American Gangster
Bee Movie
Beowulf
Awake
Things We Lost in the Fire
Cloverfield
Iron Man


...they/you won't want any of those? Not to make a retarded "LOOK AT THESE MOVIES" list post, but it's not like the entire format closed up shop and set fire to the place on the way out.

Not to mention the stuff that Warner will bring out before the end of May. I won't be hard on you though, the concept of people hating you for giving them an HD DVD player is hilariously awesome.

[rsigley]

average consumer doesn't know anything about hd dvd or blu ray

so just tell them you got them a HD DVD player, it makes all their regular DVDs in HD

then they'll never hook it up by HDMI so they'll be maxed at 480p but who cares

on a sadder note, i received my 100th hd dvd in the mail today when i got home from work/macking

and it was a warner title
IRONIC????????????? :(

[TrueBlueLS]

I say hold on to your hats ladies and gentlemen. I'm interested in what Toshiba has to say in regards to this at CES.

[KaneRobot]

I say hold on to your hats ladies and gentlemen. I'm interested in what Toshiba has to say in regards to this at CES.
...um...look at post #3739 in this thread.

Yeah, I'm interested in what they'll have to say once they get their wits about them, but they haven't given a timetable for that yet.

[mykevermin]

I say hold on to your hats ladies and gentlemen. I'm interested in what Toshiba has to say in regards to this at CES.

Well, if you ask President Bush, the economy is in *fantastic* shape.

I think this maneuver took a LOT out of Toshiba's plans, as evidenced by their CES postponement. But, Kane's right, there are some good Paramount/Uni titles to look forward to. I'll have to import Sweeney Todd if I want to watch it (Warner has international distribution on it).

That said, I still think the format war is over, over, over...but as others have pointed out, your movies will still work, you'll still have WB releases through May...so it's not a total loss in the meantime. Just another set-top box to put next to your NES and Genesis.

[Sporadic]

Guess I should finally place that order for Band of Brothers since it is becoming harder to find and won't get any easier with this latest news.

HMV JP still has it in stock.

http://www.hmv.co.jp/search/index.asp?format=22&keyword=band+of+brothers

[rsigley]

http://www.welovetheiraqiinformationminister.com/images/07-minister.jpg


i was trying to think of something witty for him to say about HD DVD and don't worry, but i came up blank

[KaneRobot]

Leave it to a "regular person" to say one of the more level-headed things I've seen so far. I was just talking to my brother, who is only casually interested in this at best:

Me: Yeah, so bad news.
Him: What??
Me: Warner is going Blu-Ray only in June.
Him: What the hell? That's not bad news. I thought you were going to say dad died or something. Who cares? You still have to buy both anyway.

[TrueBlueLS]

...um...look at post #3739 in this thread.

Yeah, I'm interested in what they'll have to say once they get their wits about them, but they haven't given a timetable for that yet.

And I stand corrected. Sorry for my lack of reading in this thread and else where. Well... here's to Toshiba giving us something big before the month is over.

[LinkinPrime]

I just realized...WB will delay HD DVD titles from the DVD/Blu-Ray release dates...

Warner Home Video will continue to release its titles in standard DVD format and Blu-ray. After a short window following their standard DVD and Blu-ray releases, all new titles will continue to be released in HD DVD until the end of May 2008. (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Breaking:_Warner_Goes_Blu-ray_Exclusive/1325)
Why the fuck would they go and delay titles on purpose after they had already revealed their true intentions? How long of a delay? From the quote above it makes it seem that the delay is to purposely release less titles on HD DVD. Assuming 30 titles come out from WB between now and May, it could mean that out of those 30 titles only 15-20 will make it to HD DVD within that time frame.

Am I anylizing too much into this?

[msuna]

probably analyzing too much. Now im aggravated i spent 98 dollars on a damn HD DVD player! BAH

[KaneRobot]

Now im aggravated i spent 98 dollars on a damn HD DVD player! BAH
...you're weird.


And no, I don't think you're analyzing too much, Link. Whenever support is dropped for something, it never lives up to the "don't worry, we'll continue to support it for (x amount of time)" statement made at the beginning. I'll be surprised if we break 20 titles from Warner between now and June.

[tenzor]

looks like New Line is going blu only according to Variety


Warner's move leaves only Paramount and Universal squarely in the HD DVD camp. Sony, Fox, Disney and Lionsgate all back Blu-ray. Warner sister company New Line confirmed it will shift allegiance to Blu-ray only as well.

http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117978461.html?categoryid=1009&cs=1

[DarkNessBear]

Hey guys whats new?

[thrustbucket]

The Golden Compass
Sweeney Todd
Atonement
Charlie Wilson's War
American Gangster
Bee Movie
Beowulf
Awake
Things We Lost in the Fire
Cloverfield
Iron Man


...they/you won't want any of those? Not to make a retarded "LOOK AT THESE MOVIES" list post, but it's not like the entire format closed up shop and set fire to the place on the way out.

Not to mention the stuff that Warner will bring out before the end of May. I won't be hard on you though, the concept of people hating you for giving them an HD DVD player is hilariously awesome.

Don't forget There will be blood and No country for old men. The two highest acclaimed movies of 07, will not be on blu ray. Assuming no other studios go blu.

PS, anyone with buyers remorse about their HD DVD player because of this, please post how much you are willing to part with it for, I am interested in picking up one for each room in my house, as I won't be abandoning them any time soon.

[Sporadic]

Don't forget There will be blood and No country for old men. The two highest acclaimed movies of 07, will not be on blu ray. Assuming no other studios go blu.

PS, anyone with buyers remorse about their HD DVD player because of this, please post how much you are willing to part with it for, I am interested in picking up one for each room in my house, as I won't be abandoning them any time soon.

Actually, No Country For Old Men is Miramax Films and Paramount elsewhere while There Will Be Blood is the opposite.

[mykevermin]

Don't forget There will be blood and No country for old men. The two highest acclaimed movies of 07, will not be on blu ray. Assuming no other studios go blu.

No Country For Old Men is distributed in the US by Miramax (Disney). It will only be on BD. There will be blood is Paramount and Miramax, so your guess is as good as mine.

PS, anyone with buyers remorse about their HD DVD player because of this, please post how much you are willing to part with it for, I am interested in picking up one for each room in my house, as I won't be abandoning them any time soon.

Currently offering $50 for a 360 Add-on. PM me if interested.

EDIT: Thwarted by Sporadic again. Dagnabit.

[thrustbucket]

Currently offering $50 for a 360 Add-on. PM me if interested.

EDIT: Thwarted by Sporadic again. Dagnabit.

I already have one, and only have one 360. But I'd love some standalones for cheap from any frightened consumers that think the war is over.

Dunno if anyone saw this (http://formatwarcentral.com/index.php/2008/01/04/warner-swayed-by-500-million-from-the-bda/), not sure how true it is, but it will be interesting to see how things pan out and what shady deals are made known in the coming days.

According to a trusted source that was close to the negotiations, Warner and FOX were working on a deal to go Exclusive to HD DVD as recent as last week. Our source tells us that Warner was only willing to go to HD DVD if FOX would go with them. Their thinking was if they just went to HD DVD by themselves, it would not end the format war. Early this week FOX was paid an undisclosed amount to remain exclusive to Blu-ray. With the FOX deal falling through, Warner had no choice but to accept the BDA’s $500 Million offer to go Blu-ray exclusive. We do wonder if FOX was just playing the HD DVD side, while having no intentions of ever switching.

I'm not saying I believe this, but it WOULD explain why the CES website had HD DVD down for a 3 hour press conference, while BDA was only 1. Also, Warner Brothers was slated to have a presentation for that press conference for HD DVD.

Something smells very rotten in Denmark. Sounds like some pretty heavy drama occurred in both camps in the past little while.

[mykevermin]

not sure how true it is

Bullshit. I'm sure WB was paid a hefty sum, but half a billion? *any* speculation on what WB's financial take was is just that. Until I see a reliable source put a number out there (the way NY Times and others mentioned 150m to Paramount/Dreamworks), I call complete bullshit.

Half a billion. Heh.

And FOX? Chalk me up for another heh. Those cats ran scared with their tails between their legs when BD was cracked last year before full implementation of BD+ encryption (which, although cracked, yes, I know - is disc specific, so they managed to crack a single title). I don't see them going HD DVD exclusive until the bitter end, just like I would expect Universal to do in the opposite case.

That said, if you'd like to discuss this further, I'll be in the format war thread. I'm not going to bring that nonsense in this 'un.

[Sporadic]

I was thinking about Warner and the only thing I really want them to push out before leaving is The Shawshank Redemption.

It has been delayed for so long and it has been one of my top wants for awhile now.

No Country For Old Men is distributed in the US by Miramax (Disney). It will only be on BD. There will be blood is Paramount and Miramax, so your guess is as good as mine.


There Will Be Blood is Paramount in America so it will be HD-DVD exclusive.

I have my fingers crossed that Paramount will release No Country For Old Men in another country.

[Ice2Dragon]

Bullshit. I'm sure WB was paid a hefty sum, but half a billion? *any* speculation on what WB's financial take was is just that. Until I see a reliable source put a number out there (the way NY Times and others mentioned 150m to Paramount/Dreamworks), I call complete bullshit.

Half a billion. Heh.

And FOX? Chalk me up for another heh. Those cats ran scared with their tails between their legs when BD was cracked last year before full implementation of BD+ encryption (which, although cracked, yes, I know - is disc specific, so they managed to crack a single title). I don't see them going HD DVD exclusive until the bitter end, just like I would expect Universal to do in the opposite case.

That said, if you'd like to discuss this further, I'll be in the format war thread. I'm not going to bring that nonsense in this 'un.

Somehow I doubt Blu Ray had to buy off sony like Hd dvd did to get Paramount/universal.

Look at the disc sales chart every week and tell me who wins.

Then if you were Warner, what would you do? Pile your money into two formats and make little to no profit, or put your money and promotions into one format and make money?

Kind of an easy decision anyway you see it..

[Chris in Cali]

Well, my format of choice has won, and I am glad. On the other hand I invested quite a bit of $$$ in HD DVD as I was a very early adopter of that format, but oh well. Hopefully when Universal starts releasing on Blu-ray the will do a better job with the transfer having 20gb more of disc space to work with. I'd love to see Uni cataloge titles with better transfers on Blu than they had on HD DVD.

It's a good feeling to be able to buy movies knowing that very soon all titles will be available on one format, and I don't have to worry about it dying. Kudos to Warner for not milking it any longer, and knowing when to put a stop to this shitty war. Anyone want to buy Heroes Season 1 HD DVD unopened for $50 shipped? :)

[CocheseUGA]

Try 620 million for the buy-out.

[Ruined]

If any of you want some of my HD DVD's at (relatively) cheap ass prices, I put some up on ebay (ending soon). I'm not sure if this is the right place to put this, but then again I don't know where it would fit on CAG. Still, I think some of you guys might be interested. A lot of it is stuff that is still sealed and most of the stuff that was opened was just to check to make sure it had no scratches during shipping. These are movies I didn't really like but bought for the novelty of HD:

http://cgi6.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewSellersOtherItems&userid=ruinedx&ssPageName=STRK:MEFS:MESOI

Feel free to PM me with offers, too.

No chance of recovery for the HD DVD camp IMO. I'm still keeping the movies I like a lot though - no reason not to.


BTW, excellent efforts on the parts of all HD DVD fans here. It was worth a shot for technophiles everywhere, the opportunity to get a mass-media region-free format without intrusive DRM like BD+ heaped on top of it. Oh well.

[Apossum]

If any of you want some of my HD DVD's at (relatively) cheap ass prices, I put some up on ebay (ending soon). I'm not sure if this is the right place to put this, but then again I don't know where it would fit on CAG. Still, I think some of you guys might be interested. A lot of it is stuff that is still sealed and most of the stuff that was opened was just to check to make sure it had no scratches during shipping. These are movies I didn't really like but bought for the novelty of HD:

http://cgi6.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewSellersOtherItems&userid=ruinedx&ssPageName=STRK:MEFS:MESOI

Feel free to PM me with offers, too.

No chance of recovery for the HD DVD camp IMO. I'm still keeping the movies I like a lot though - no reason not to.


BTW, excellent efforts on the parts of all HD DVD fans here. It was worth a shot for technophiles everywhere, the opportunity to get a mass-media region-free format without intrusive DRM like BD+ heaped on top of it. Oh well.


dur, maybe the auction forum? ;) just busting your balls, nobody would see it there.

but I think you might be right about no chance for recovery. hell, they've canceled their CES event:
http://wesleytech.com/ces-hd-dvd-event-canceled-due-to-warner-announcement/483/

[RedvsBlue]

hmm, I wonder if everyone else is dumping all their HD DVD movies for cheap on ebay?

[pimpinc333]

I think I might just jump ship also.

I have:

Toshiba HD A2 Player
360 Add On
Sopranos Season Six P1 + P2
Heroes S1
Matrix Trilogy
And about 10 HD DVD Movies.

I guess I'll pop it on Ebay or sell it here and then buy a PS3 which I really don't want to do :(

[CocheseUGA]

I'm not dumping anything. The only thing I have that would even be considered is Batman Begins, but I will still enjoy it.

I'm actually going to try and pick up more titles if the prices are right. Maybe I can even trade for some on here, possibly with multiple games. I'd love a Matrix Trilogy, Blade Runner, etc.

[thrustbucket]

Bullshit. I'm sure WB was paid a hefty sum, but half a billion? *any* speculation on what WB's financial take was is just that. Until I see a reliable source put a number out there (the way NY Times and others mentioned 150m to Paramount/Dreamworks), I call complete bullshit.

Half a billion. Heh.

And FOX? Chalk me up for another heh. Those cats ran scared with their tails between their legs when BD was cracked last year before full implementation of BD+ encryption (which, although cracked, yes, I know - is disc specific, so they managed to crack a single title). I don't see them going HD DVD exclusive until the bitter end, just like I would expect Universal to do in the opposite case.

That said, if you'd like to discuss this further, I'll be in the format war thread. I'm not going to bring that nonsense in this 'un.


Actually it is true. The insider thread on AVS is full of people "in the know" admitting it's true. Not the money itself. Let me quote Dave Vaughn, insider for Home theater Spot, known to have many connections in the industry:

And you are right...it wasn't a slam dunk. For people celebrating for Blu-ray, it could just as easily have gone the other way...yes it was that close. There was an agreement in principle between Toshiba, Fox and Warner, but FOX pulled out at the 11th hour and went to Sony with their intentions. To Sony's credit, the did whatever it took to get Fox and Warner (although Warner is denying any type of incentives...if you believe this, I have a bridge for sale if anyone is interested). For the record, I think "incentives" are perfectly acceptable and a part of doing business.

Let's look at this from a business perspective. Is Toshiba harmed by losing HD DVD? Yes, but not to the degree that Sony would be if Blu-ray died. Sony has literally bet the farm on Blu-ray with the PS3. The PS3 isn't considered a successful game machine (yet), and if Sony lost Fox and Warner after the Paramount defection, that would have been the end of Blu-ray and possibly the end of Sony as we know it.

So yes, Fox was in negotiations with HD DVD. And for whatever reason, they went back to Sony and asked them to counter offer. Warner was simply going to go whichever way Fox went (or any other studio).

It's just very interesting that no studio decision here had anything to do with which format they liked better or which one they thought was "winning" it all had to do with incentives.

[Richlough]

Actually it is true. The insider thread on AVS is full of people "in the know" admitting it's true. Not the money itself. Let me quote Dave Vaughn, insider for Home theater Spot, known to have many connections in the industry:
Sony has literally bet the farm on Blu-ray with the PS3. The PS3 isn't considered a successful game machine (yet).


He does know his stuff .

[KaneRobot]

From the insider's forum post:
For the record, I think "incentives" are perfectly acceptable and a part of doing business.

Yes, which is pretty much the only thing that surprises me about this deal. When it comes down to paying out, MS and Toshiba hold the biggest arsenal.

However, I'm still not sure I'm buying into this Warner - Fox connection theory. That sounds like HDM fanfic or something.

[jollydwarf]

To reiterate what I posted elsewhere just a few minutes ago, could The Dark Knight (the movie, not the inevitable game) be the 'killer app' for the PS3 this fall, particularly if FF XIII slips in the U.S. into '09? Am I being ridiculous again?

[TrueBlueLS]

I still find it laughable about Blu-ray. Your average person didn't know what Blu-ray was. So Sony had to start putting in the commercials that a movie would be available on DVD or Blu-ray "Hi Def". I hope Time Warner's sales tank.

[rodeojones903]

To reiterate what I posted elsewhere just a few minutes ago, could The Dark Knight (the movie, not the inevitable game) be the 'killer app' for the PS3 this fall, particularly if FF XIII slips in the U.S. into '09? Am I being ridiculous again?

Yes, MGS4.

[jollydwarf]

Don't overestimate the power of the MGS. I don't think that it's quite 'the draw' with the GTA/Madden crowd that people here think it is. I also specifically said "Fall", and isn't this game a likely Q2 release (worldwide)?

[Richlough]

I , for one , do not have MGS4 'blue balls' .
I could care less about that series .

[terribledeli]

Am I being ridiculous again?

Yes.

Folks still don't realize their PS3s can play Blu-ray movie discs. I actually watched a guy trade in his copy of Spider-man 3 because, and I quote, "I don't own a Blu-ray thing and I don't want one"

It's hard to have a killer app when a healthy portion of your buying community doesn't understand what is actually in their living rooms.

[seanr1221]

I still find it laughable about Blu-ray. Your average person didn't know what Blu-ray was. So Sony had to start putting in the commercials that a movie would be available on DVD or Blu-ray "Hi Def". I hope Time Warner's sales tank.

...the average person probably doesn't even understand high def, or this format war or pretty much anything electronic related.

[guyver2077]

the sad thing is that most of us hd backers "chose" to back the format for whatever reason.

Alot of the blu-ray backers (ps3 owners) are just happy because they won by default.

[jollydwarf]

It's hard to have a killer app when a healthy portion of your buying community doesn't understand what is actually in their living rooms.

Well, it'll be interesting to see how that movie is marketed on Blu-Ray this coming Fall/Holiday season, as the (potential) PS3-owning crowd and the Batman-loving crowd probably share significant overlap.

Or, at least they do now.

[KaneRobot]

Sporadic - on the Band of Brothers set, is disc five only the documentary like it is on the DVD set, or does it have the final episodes on it as well?


Hopefully when Universal starts releasing on Blu-ray the will do a better job with the transfer having 20gb more of disc space to work with.
Not a shot in hell. If Universal opts to release on Blu-Ray in the future, they'll use the same transfers they did on HD DVD. Total waste of resources to redo it for Blu-Ray. It's doubtful that there would be a noticable difference anyway, aside from the occasional DD+ to THD track.




I think a lot of this hysteria would die down if people heard from Toshiba and/or Universal and/or MS. Even if it is just to say "WE GIVE UP" at least people would stop flipping out with speculation. A few noteworthy titles would probably shut up a lot of people as well.

[thrustbucket]

However, I'm still not sure I'm buying into this Warner - Fox connection theory. That sounds like HDM fanfic or something.

Then you would be calling multiple insiders liars. There are multiple people in the AVS insider thread that have spilled the beans.

Warner told HD DVD if they could get another studio to go exclusive they would too. That is fact now.

HD DVD did what they could to pursuade Fox over, so Warner would come to. What happened after that point is very sketchy, but it sounds like they all had verbal commitments with Toshiba to go exclusive, then for whatever reason Fox went to Sony and said "This is what we are thinking about doing, and Warner will to, you wanna tell us why we shouldn't?"

Fast forward a week, and now all blu ray supporters will be paying off Sony's rather massive "incentives" for those studios for some time to come.

[terribledeli]

Well, it'll be interesting to see how that movie is marketed on Blu-Ray this coming Fall/Holiday season, as the (potential) PS3-owning crowd and the Batman-loving crowd probably share significant overlap.


Sony is definitely doing a better job at getting their content providers to advertise it will play Blu-ray movies. On the Pirates 3 $10 coupon, it points out twice that "Did you get a Playstation 3 for Christmas?!? Why not enjoy High Definition Movies via Blu-ray!!"

My other concern is just numbers. Let's assume The Dark Knight does at least 300's numbers. That's maybe 350,000 (Extreme extrapolation on my part - using the 250,000 discs sold as of August 7th as a basis). Can that really be considered a major success when talking about games? Will The Dark Knight then open the flood gates to ensure more folks buy more movie discs? I would have thought Spider-man 3 would have done this, but I'm not seeing any increased sales in my neck of the hill billy woods.

[gsr]

it was fun guys, but the format war is over

I'm gonna dump my a2 and discs while the going is still good.

I don't want to have two players in my rack

I expect paramount and universal to jump ship this summer and start flooding the market with titles.. Bourne Trilogy on bluray anybody?

[jollydwarf]

Well, I know it's not considered a deterrent for the overall moviegoing. movie-buying public, but Spider-Man 3 sucked in a major, major way. I seriously doubt that The Dark Knight will do the same, given that nothing about it so far seems to indicate that it'll play like the scribblings of an AD-HD-riddled, soon-to-be-schizo eight-year-old.

Besides that, the entire Spider-Man series has always been at least slightly overrated, in my opinion, and was probably going to be considered 'played out' by many regardless of the quality of the third entry. Most superhero franchises in recent times seem to have the second entry being the best (probably because of not needing to establish the origin story and yet not running low on fresh ideas or key characters).

Enough hyphens for ya?

EDIT: All I'm saying is that I could see where one movie on Blu-Ray might hold as much, if not more sway over someone on the fence this holiday season than any one game. People will want this movie in high-def, no two ways about it. By the time it releases for home viewing, I think the scenario might be a perfect storm (more HDTVs, another PS3 price drop, more games that people can 'get with', etc.) for it to be the proverbial straw.

[rsigley]

bill hunt is saying universal is already making plans on releasing blu ray

[KaneRobot]

bill hunt is saying universal is already making plans on releasing blu ray
LOL

[rsigley]

he said

"And our sources are now telling us that Universal - knowing Warner was about to go Blu-exclusive - has already begin taking steps to prepare for their own future Blu-ray efforts"

one hilarious thing he said was speilberg wants to go back to universal and he will use that to get universal to go blu

"Steven Spielberg has repeatedly made his desire to move DreamWorks back to Universal clear, and he's also a committed Blu-ray Disc backer - Universal going Blu is almost certainly going to be a sticking point in the negotiations, especially when you consider that Spielberg has TWICE now required the HD-DVD camp to retract statements claiming that his Universal films were coming soon to that format."

[KaneRobot]

So no one has the Potter OotP disc and wants to try out the community screening thing? You don't even need a USB keyboard, if you have your PC in the same room you can type on that and it'll pop up on the screen.

SHEESH. This will probably be the only time we see this feature for quite a while, since Blu-Ray won't adopt it until the format is finalized and HD DVD is tanking.

[TheRock88]

Even more bad news for HD-DVD

http://kotaku.com/341012/ces-hd-dvd-press-conference-canceled

In light of yesterday's announcement that Warner Bros. will be going exclusively Blu-Ray, the HD DVD Promotion Group has canceled it's press conference for this year's CES. The news came in an email sent around to CES attendees yesterday."Based on the timing of the Warner Home Video announcement today, we have decided to postpone our CES 2008 press conference scheduled for Sunday, January 6th at 8:30 p.m. in the Wynn Hotel. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. We are currently discussing the potential impact of this announcement with the other HD DVD partner companies and evaluating next steps. We believe the consumer continues to benefit from HD DVD's commitment to quality and affordability - a bar that is critical for the mainstream success of any format.
We'll continue to keep you updated on new developments around HD DVD."
Yeeeeesh. Not that I think the entire format war relies on the decisions of Warner's, but it is one of the largest movie distributors and their choice will serve to start swinging things in Blu-Ray's direction. If a few more prominent companies choose this same option, we could well see an end to the format wars in the not too distant future. Man, am I glad I bought that PS3 when I had the money.

[guyver2077]

So no one has the Potter OotP disc and wants to try out the community screening thing? You don't even need a USB keyboard, if you have your PC in the same room you can type on that and it'll pop up on the screen.

SHEESH. This will probably be the only time we see this feature for quite a while, since Blu-Ray won't adopt it until the format is finalized and HD DVD is tanking.

i have it.. but have to catch up.. im still by the 3rd movie

[thrustbucket]

Even more bad news for HD-DVD

http://kotaku.com/341012/ces-hd-dvd-press-conference-canceled

That's old news, and has been mentioned twice already.

It makes sense though, because HD DVD was planning on having a 3 hour gloat fest about having Fox and Warner exclusive. Now they are forced to make new plans.

[jollydwarf]

I won't deny that Bill Hunt is 'in the know' about industry developments, but his blatant campaigning for Blu-Ray (not just this weekend, but all of last year)--and now blatant gloating--has completely turned me off to his site. He should go work for CNet with that mentality.

That's half the problem with the Internet entertainment industry media: they may have 'made good' for themselves, but at the end of the day, you've still got immature, easily-bought fanboys delivering you your 'news'.

[KaneRobot]

I won't deny that Bill Hunt is 'in the know' about industry developments, but his blatant campaigning for Blu-Ray (not just this weekend, but all of last year)--and now blatant gloating--has completely turned me off to his site. He should go work for CNet with that mentality.

That's half the problem with the Internet entertainment industry media: they may have 'made good' for themselves, but at the end of the day, you've still got immature, easily-bought fanboys delivering you your 'news'.
Wait and see how "outraged" (for the consumer's good, of course! :roll:) that he is if Paramount and Universal don't IMMEDIATELY go Blu-Ray next week.

[guyver2077]

watching the rkelly hd dvd right now...

not bad at all

[jollydwarf]

When he titled that 'Blu-Ray site hack' story "The Look and Sound of Desperate", you know he had a grin that made the Joker look pursed-lipped.

Again, legitimate news, worth covering, but his angle on the HD-DVD fanboyism just illuminated his own.

[DarkNessBear]

bill hunt is saying universal is already making plans on releasing blu ray

Fo real?

[Ice2Dragon]

watching the rkelly hd dvd right now...

not bad at all

I havent seen that anywhere.. whered you manage to snag a copy? Amazon?

[guyver2077]

I havent seen that anywhere.. whered you manage to snag a copy? Amazon?

rented via netflix..

may actually pick it up (and shakira) if i see it for cheap

[KaneRobot]

When he titled that 'Blu-Ray site hack' story "The Look and Sound of Desperate", you know he had a grin that made the Joker look pursed-lipped.
That was good, but my favorite was when the Paramount story broke, he posted his kneejerk reaction diatribe - on par with a 12 year old's whining - complete with calling Microsoft "Money$oft" throughout the post. Shortly after it went up, he edited it, removing some of the more amusing whining and changed it to "Microsoft" and pretended his original post never happened.

[Chris in Cali]

That's old news, and has been mentioned twice already.

It makes sense though, because HD DVD was planning on having a 3 hour gloat fest about having Fox and Warner exclusive. Now they are forced to make new plans.


Umm, Fox HD DVD exclusive... no.

[Ice2Dragon]

rented via netflix..

may actually pick it up (and shakira) if i see it for cheap

Shakira I picked up for I think 22 at Borders with the 20 percent off coupon, its great :)

[dg7md]

It was an awesome run for me, being able to really watch high-def movies at a cheap price, but I think I need to sell off my collection of HD-DVDs and get a PS3 in the next few months. Luckily I only bought like 4 actual discs, rest were free.

[LinkinPrime]

the sad thing is that most of us hd backers "chose" to back the format for whatever reason.

Alot of the blu-ray backers (ps3 owners) are just happy because they won by default.

That's so true...I believe that HD DVD is the better format, with HDi and all those interactive features...but leave it to Sony once again with their gorilla marketing to pounce on the better product...not to long ago, PS2 vs Dreamcast and now PS3 vs HD DVD...what a shame. I think that if Toshiba had pushed their marketing dollars bit more, we could have gotten WB.

[dg7md]

Well, don't call me a quitter but, do you assume GS will take in the HD-DVDs and the 360 player? I really, really don't want to deal with trying to sell these to an unsuspecting buyer that doesn't know the unfortunate fate that lies ahead.

[JasonTerminator]

Umm, Fox HD DVD exclusive... no.

Not exclusive, the plan was for them to go neutral and Warner to go HD-DVD exclusive.

Warner really fucked the dog on this one.

[KaneRobot]

Well, I just took my B3G2 discs back to Best Buy for a return. Until we hear from Uni/DW/Paramount/Toshiba/MS one way or the other, I'm done buying HD DVD. If the two studios remain firm with HD DVD, then I will resume purchases. If one of the two goes neutral, I'm done with HD media for the forseeable future and will go back to downloads. I will not buy a Blu-Ray player until their hardware is finalized.

I'm not selling anything besides the Potter discs and I'm not cancelling any of the things I have already preordered (I believe all I have right now is the UFC disc anyway), but for now, the Band of Brothers set is the final thing I'm picking up...a hell of a way to go out, considering it's my favorite TV series of all time.

I'll continue to update the OP in the meantime.


That's so true...I believe that HD DVD is the better format, with HDi and all those interactive features...
Yep. To draw another Sonv/PS3 vs. (whoever) analogy, HD DVD sort of struck me like the 360 in that theoretically it was slightly less "powerful," but in execution results were identical, it was easier to work with, and had more neat gimmicks from the get-go.

[Nelo Ice]

Well, don't call me a quitter but, do you assume GS will take in the HD-DVDs and the 360 player? I really, really don't want to deal with trying to sell these to an unsuspecting buyer that doesn't know the unfortunate fate that lies ahead.

same just i want money back since i barely used it and now its about to lose...ps3 is stll too much for me :cold:

[captainfrizo]

I guess I'm in the minority since I'm both keeping my HD-DVD collection and actually looking forward to increasing my collection. I'll be monitoring eBay a lot more often now.

Sure, I'll eventually make the jump to Blu-Ray (via PS3 to play the handful of games that actually interest me) if and when HD-DVD is officially declared dead by Toshiba, but I still plan on enjoying HD-DVD until that time comes.

[rsigley]

ended up picking up 5 more hd dvd's at best buy on my way home

fuck it

i'm in it til the end

but they were all universal titles

[halfbent]

Not that I've got a huge collection anyway, only 15 movies, but I'm in it with red until the end too. No plans on getting a Blu-ray player anytime soon, and the PS3 is no option for me until I can think of more than two games I'd play on it -- and those two aren't even coming out anytime soon!

[thrustbucket]

I have no intention of investing in blu ray. Probably ever.

1- I have realized that Warner may have just saved me a bundle of cash. Because I really only watch movies once or twice after I buy them, and if I just stick to renting them on the Xbox Marketplace if I can't buy them on HD DVD, I save huge. Even if I rent a movie twice, it's still cheaper than buying.

2- I only have 720p (the difference in 1080p isn't noticeable enough to upgrade until my display device breaks.)

3- This way this whole thing panned out this week has soured me even further on Sony and Blu ray, and I don't intend to help Sony recoup the half billion they paid out.

[KaneRobot]

I saw this on AVS and it's a nice moment of clarity in the middle of all this hysteria...this was explaining why someone was thinking about selling all their stuff, but changed their mind:


I have an HD DVD player.

I've gotten a ridiculous amount of entertainment out of it.

It still plays movies that look just as good as the other format, just like it did yesterday.

In the event my player eventually fails sometime down the road, it will not be difficult to find a replacement...probably for less money than I paid the first time around.

[guyver2077]

what does everyone use to keep track of what movies they own?

can anyone suggest something? ign?

[captainfrizo]

what does everyone use to keep track of what movies they own?

can anyone suggest something? ign?

I use DVD Aficionado (www.dvdaf.com) but after their re-design I'm not liking it too much. It does the job, but the layout isn't too pretty and not all movies are in their database (the HD-DVD import of Underworld, for instance).

[KaneRobot]

I use DVD Aficionado (www.dvdaf.com) but after their re-design I'm not liking it too much. It does the job, but the layout isn't too pretty and not all movies are in their database (the HD-DVD import of Underworld, for instance).

I also use that, but I REALLY need to update my collection as I've sold several DVDs and have a ton more HD DVDs now.

[terribledeli]

I'm sure its been alluded to several times already, but I'm too lazy to read back and am anxious to watch Northern Exposure before bed, it'll turn out like the Dreamcast.

Toshiba and their HD DVD pals will still pledge support. Maybe even offer some bombshells (I'm guess ET/Jaws/Jurassic Park from Universal, The Godfather from Paramount). Releases will be strong through June, then we'll start hearing odd cancellations (I'm guess Cloverfield will be one). Then come October, the bombshells will be cast aside. Before Christmas, it'll be announced that these bombshells will appear on Blu-ray starting in January.

But like the Dreamcast, HD DVD owners that hadn't abandoned their players will reap the rewards of fire sales and $5 discount bins at Wal-mart. And even after four or five years, the devoted will still be trading for that Japanese Band of Brothers set.

[KaneRobot]

I'm sure its been alluded to several times already, but I'm too lazy to read back and am anxious to watch Northern Exposure before bed, it'll turn out like the Dreamcast.

I could have sworn I said that earlier, but maybe not. Regardless, I agree 100%. It'll be "fine" for a while, but when Warner dries up (after not delivering a few of the titles they said they would), we'll start to see cancellations here and there.

Then come fall/winter 2008, the remaining customers get the motherlode of all sales.


Obviously this all goes out the window if Toshiba/Uni/Paramount has some unexpected news that boosts the format, but I'm not counting on that. Frankly, if it DOES go the Dreamcast route above, it's fine with me...I wouldn't mind some 5-10 dollar closeout discs to tide me over until Blu-Ray is complete and the prices are reasonable.

[Bezerker]

I'm sure its only going to be a few more years before HVD's catch on

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holographic_Versatile_Disc

I'm reading on Wikipedia that NHK did an 18 minute video in 4320p resolution (7680×4320). Each uncompressed minute required 184gb of data storage, however VC1 compression would knock it down to 3GB per minute. Quite a difference.

I'm guessing a resolution that high would only be beneficial in movie theatre sized screens (people say you cant tell the difference between 720p and 1080p in less then 42", i can only imagine the leap between 1080p and 4320p). They also used 22.2 channel surround sound (now that would be a terrible looking setup in a home if it wasnt wireless, lol.)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/4320p

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/22.2

Seriously, how far does video technology really need to go. Give us our 3d holographic tv's and call it a day. Or maybe, we'll just live with "The Box"

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v245/xpokeofdoomx/thebox.jpg

[kensterdotnet]

I'm sure its only going to be a few more years before HVD's catch on

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holographic_Versatile_Disc

I'm reading on Wikipedia that NHK did an 18 minute video in 4320p resolution (7680×4320). Each uncompressed minute required 184gb of data storage, however VC1 compression would knock it down to 3GB per minute. Quite a difference.

I'm guessing a resolution that high would only be beneficial in movie theatre sized screens (people say you cant tell the difference between 720p and 1080p in less then 42", i can only imagine the leap between 1080p and 4320p). They also used 22.2 channel surround sound (now that would be a terrible looking setup in a home if it wasnt wireless, lol.)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/4320p

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/22.2

Seriously, how far does video technology really need to go. Give us our 3d holographic tv's and call it a day. Or maybe, we'll just live with "The Box"

:drool: I can't wait.

[tenzor]

Well, don't call me a quitter but, do you assume GS will take in the HD-DVDs and the 360 player? I really, really don't want to deal with trying to sell these to an unsuspecting buyer that doesn't know the unfortunate fate that lies ahead.

they are giving $50.00 trade in credit or $55.00 with EDGE Card. The average HD-DVD movie was getting like $5.00-$8.00 usually with the exception of King Kong which was getting like $3.00 i think. I didn't trade anything in, but just checked it out to see what GS was giving for trade in credit.

[halfbent]

I use DVDspot to track my collection. There wasn't much of difference between that and DVDafficianado at the time, I think I went with spot just because I had a couple of friends using it.

[JasonTerminator]

they are giving $50.00 trade in credit or $55.00 with EDGE Card. The average HD-DVD movie was getting like $5.00-$8.00 usually with the exception of King Kong which was getting like $3.00 i think. I didn't trade anything in, but just checked it out to see what GS was giving for trade in credit.

Wow.

It's easy to forget how badly they screw people until you hear the numbers.

Jesus christ.

[jollydwarf]

but leave it to Sony once again with their gorilla marketing to pounce on the better product

Let us not forget how much of an influence Best Buy has been in clearly pushing Blu-Ray over HD-DVD for the last year or so, from the PS3/HDTV/Blu-Ray disc deals (good values, to be fair) to the placement of the Blu-Ray discs in their recently-revised movie section (at least the one I frequent). I would not be surprised if the "blue shirts" are all programmed to try to subtly dissuade the average, seemingly uninformed consumer from buying an HD-DVD player.

Finally, I think Bill Hunt helped create a self-fulfilling prophecy, by effectively saying Blu-Ray was going to win...because he said it was going to win. He also could be summed up with the Henry Ford-like line of "I don't care who wins the Format War...as long as it's Blu-Ray!"

P.S. Given the 'depth' of people these days, I wonder how much of it simply comes down to the names. HD-DVD might sound like a minor upgrade, while "Blu-Ray" sounds so, like, futuristic! "Uhmajun how daggone good Deltuh Ferce* gunna look on one-a dem dang-dong Blooo-Ray plurrs! Ech-Day Day-Vay-Day, hell, souns like a venurull dizayz ta me! Hyuck!"

*--I have no idea what HD format(s) will feature this cinematic masterpiece.

[KingDox]

Well, I'm not going to move over to Blue-ray untill I can get a standalone that is version 1.1 or 2.0 or what ever their final spec is, and costs $150.

I still don't see a reason to own a PS3, since I don't like FF, MGS, or GT.

Maybe down the line I'll build a HTPC, throw in a blu-ray drive and also hook up my HD-dvd add on drive. And I'll use that as my combo player.

[Sarang01]

Ehhh I'm looking forward to bagging "Volcano High" for around $20.

Oh btw, KING DOX!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Ice2Dragon]

Woot.

In for Zodiac/White Noise/Pianist this week :)

[CocheseUGA]

Finally going to see A Scanner Darkly this week. +1 to the collection.

[guyver2077]

so after watching terminator sara connor pilot and just finishing terminator 3...

what are the best versions of 1 and 2?

i know domestic part 1 is out on bd.. is the import for t2 still the best one? someone on hdd got it for $20!

also did t3 on bd ever make it out? the t3 hd dvd disc is pretty solid

[thrustbucket]

so after watching terminator sara connor pilot and just finishing terminator 3...


Oh did that finally air? It's been on the net since April. Saw it months ago. It was ok. River is cute.

[guyver2077]

I use DVD Aficionado (www.dvdaf.com (http://www.dvdaf.com)) but after their re-design I'm not liking it too much. It does the job, but the layout isn't too pretty and not all movies are in their database (the HD-DVD import of Underworld, for instance).

do i really have to search for each title.. i was hoping there would be a master list and i could checkmark what i have

[thrustbucket]

I'm sure its only going to be a few more years before HVD's catch on

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holographic_Versatile_Disc

I'm reading on Wikipedia that NHK did an 18 minute video in 4320p resolution (7680×4320). Each uncompressed minute required 184gb of data storage, however VC1 compression would knock it down to 3GB per minute. Quite a difference.

I'm guessing a resolution that high would only be beneficial in movie theatre sized screens (people say you cant tell the difference between 720p and 1080p in less then 42", i can only imagine the leap between 1080p and 4320p). They also used 22.2 channel surround sound (now that would be a terrible looking setup in a home if it wasnt wireless, lol.)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/4320p

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/22.2

Seriously, how far does video technology really need to go. Give us our 3d holographic tv's and call it a day. Or maybe, we'll just live with "The Box"

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v245/xpokeofdoomx/thebox.jpg

I think 1080p is plenty of resolution for 99% of home situations. We would benefit far more from 2x-3x the frame rate.

[guyver2077]

Oh did that finally air? It's been on the net since April. Saw it months ago. It was ok. River is cute.

yea i didnt know it was on the net.. i guess what i saw was the old pilot.. the one airing this month is supposedly a little different...

[Ice2Dragon]

[quote=guyver2077;3795767]so after watching terminator sara connor pilot and just finishing terminator 3...

what are the best versions of 1 and 2?

i know domestic part 1 is out on bd.. is the import for t2 still the best one? someone on hdd got it for $20!


Yes the blu ray came out and is flawed, 1080I not P, unless you turn on PIP mode, which then makes the movie 1080p. Warner has stated a disc replacement issue will soon take effect, unknown when.

I own both T1/T2 on blu ray, and they look great. From what Ive read though, the imports are slightly better, but pretty hard to come by. Id just stick with the blu rays, much cheaper and less of a hassle, but thats just me @_@

[guyver2077]

right but i heard that t2 domestic is just the theatrical cut..

ive heard great things about the import..

[Sporadic]

right but i heard that t2 domestic is just the theatrical cut..

ive heard great things about the import..

If you can grab the import for $20, jump on it.

It's a two disc set that includes both the Director's Cut and the Theatrical cut. The PQ is top-notch and the forced subs on the theatrical (none on the Director's), you can shrink down to sit solely in the black bar.

Just make sure it's the French edition and not the UK one (UK one is only one disc)

The T2 Blu-Ray is just theatrical cut.

[KaneRobot]

What about the super duper uber extra ultra T2 German import coming soon though...I thought March? It may be worth waiting for that, the special features on it looked amazing and I've heard it's a new transfer. Barring any annoyances like forced subs, that will probably be the one to get. I'll definitely pick it up if feedback is positive....assuming they don't cancel it, anyway.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=7A4UKRwSZZo

[Sporadic]

What about the super duper uber extra ultra T2 German import coming soon though...I thought March? It may be worth waiting for that, the special features on it looked amazing and I've heard it's a new transfer. Barring any annoyances like forced subs, that will probably be the one to get. I'll definitely pick it up if feedback is positive....assuming they don't cancel it, anyway.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=7A4UKRwSZZo

It's only the Director's Cut and I doubt it will look any better than the French one. If you are into extras, you should wait but chances are (since it's from Germany) it will be fairly expensive.

[guyver2077]

sporadic:

i was cracking up when someone went into your hdd thread and said your prices sucked and then you reported him..

lolz

[LinkinPrime]

I missed out on great deals at HDD, some user sold all his collection at $10 per disc and he had the newly released Pan's Labyrinth and Eastern Promises. Sad how so many people say that they favor one format and then dump it just because Warner says they're going Blu...which won't happen until this summer.

[APreciousDragon]

Does anyone know the cheapest spots to get used HD movies now? Especially w/all the dumping people are doing, I really want to pick up a few HD's I've been holding out on! Websites or stores (other than ebay).

Thanks! :)

[JasonTerminator]

I missed out on great deals at HDD, some user sold all his collection at $10 per disc and he had the newly released Pan's Labyrinth and Eastern Promises. Sad how so many people say that they favor one format and then dump it just because Warner says they're going Blu...which won't happen until this summer.

And people troll my offer in the HD-DVD trading thread here.

People are stupid, I swear.

[Sporadic]

I guess the HD-DVD conference wasn't canceled after all.

HD DVD Rallies Consumer Audience in 2007 Driving Nearly One Million Dedicated Player Sales in North America
HD DVD software sales increase during key holiday season, consistent with
higher player ownership

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- At the 2008 Consumer Electronics Show in
Las Vegas, the companies of the HD DVD Promotional Group recapped a
breakthrough year for the high definition format, reaching nearly one million
dedicated HD DVD players sold in North America and delivering on the promise
of affordability, quality and a consistent experience on every machine. With
a leading install base of dedicated players, there are now more than 400
titles available in the US and more than 1,000 titles available worldwide.
During the key five week holiday selling period, HD DVD software sales grew at
nearly twice the rate of Blu-ray, which was consistent with increased player
growth.
"Our focus from day one has been to deliver the highest quality hardware
and the best, most immersive home entertainment experiences for consumers at
affordable prices," said Jodi Sally, vice president of marketing, Toshiba's
Digital A/V Group. "With nearly one million dedicated players in the market
in North America, and a leading position in the PC market worldwide, we're
seeing software growth follow suit."
As the industry looks for a format that can break into the mainstream
consumer market, HD DVD continues to be the affordable, high quality leader,
setting the bar for a positive consumer experience. Through a combination of
quality and price, HD DVD meets the essential requirements for any format to
successfully reach the mass market.

Strong Hardware and Title Growth

In 2007, HD DVD reached a broader group of consumers than ever before,
showing strong movie title sales and high attach rates stemming from the major
influx of dedicated HD DVD players on the market. Based on Nielsen data, when
comparing first week consumer sales, "The Bourne Ultimatum" on HD DVD outsold
"Spiderman 3" on Blu-ray. Among all high definition formats, HD DVD still
maintains the highest attach rates -- more than twice the rate of Blu-ray.
"The HD DVD camp has always stuck to a simple set of principles," said Ken
Graffeo, executive vice president of HD strategic marketing for Universal
Studios Home Entertainment, and co-president of the HD DVD Promotional Group.
"Give consumers who buy into HD DVD what they paid for. In fact, give them
more than they expected. Show them that quality and value go hand in hand
with HD DVD. Show them what advanced interactivity really means and how it
can enrich your favorite movies that you watch over and over."
To this point, Toshiba's HD DVD players received several Editor's Choice
and Product of the Year awards from respected media outlets, including Sound &
Vision, Electronic House, E-Gear, and Ultimate AV.
On the PC front, the HD DVD Promotional Group announced that by the end of
2007, HD DVD-enabled PCs represented more than 80% of all high
definition-capable PCs. The HD DVD companies expect notebook PCs in particular
to be the variable that helps keep quality high, but prices low, by driving
down manufacturing costs for drives across all HD DVD players.

Global Studio Support

A critical milestone for HD DVD in helping to drive strong sales across
the board was the strong support from Hollywood studios and global content
providers. In 2007, HD DVD went from being supported by 41 studios and
distributors worldwide to 65.

Groundbreaking Interactive Features

Using Microsoft's HDi technology, HD DVD led the way in 2007 with
never-before-seen interactive experiences that have changed how consumers
interact with their favorite movies. HD DVD was the first to offer true
picture in picture director's commentary in 2007 with Warner's "300". This
feature was not included in the Blu-ray version, and showcases a key HD DVD
feature that caters directly to the fan community. Universal's "Heroes" and
Paramount's "Transformers" also included picture in picture features than
enhance the experience for fans.
HD DVD was also the first to deliver web-connected content, offering bonus
material on titles such as "The Bourne Ultimatum," "Heroes: Season 1," and
"Transformers" -- all offering downloadable content that's continually updated
so fans of the movie can return for new features. The interactive elements
are all designed to promote an enhanced "second look" environment and to rally
the fan communities around key titles. In addition, Universal launched
U-Shop, an extension of the U-Control feature, letting you buy items related
to a movie directly through the guaranteed internet connection on every HD DVD
player. Universal's "Evan Almighty" was the first title to showcase this,
illustrating what can be done when every player on the market can access these
features.
As the official successor to DVD, HD DVD has added to the heritage of the
most successful consumer electronics format ever, bringing the highest quality
HD experiences to consumers at the most affordable prices. The HD DVD Booth
at CES 2008 is located in South Hall 1 (booth #21266).

About HD DVD

HD DVD is the next generation, post-DVD standard for high capacity, high
definition optical discs, approved by the DVD Forum. The DVD Forum develops
and defines DVD formats. Its more than 200 strong membership brings together
leaders in movies and entertainment, computing, consumer electronics and
software. HD DVD is fast becoming the primary visual medium for the age of
high-definition TV. The North American HD DVD Promotional Group, Inc. is an
organization established to promote the HD DVD format and educate consumers in
North America. For more information and a complete listing of HD DVD launch
titles please visit www.TheLookAndSoundOfPerfect.com.
SOURCE North American HD DVD Promotional Group, Inc.

http://www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS35203+07-Jan-2008+PRN20080107

Not one mention of Warner leaving but I guess that was expected since this was the HD-DVD Promotional Group's conference.

Glad to see the rumors about Universal going anywhere stomped out. Then again it was kind of silly to imagine them switching when Ken Graffeo is still in charge. I don't know why but he seems to hate Blu-Ray.

And people troll my offer in the HD-DVD trading thread here.

People are stupid, I swear.

No, your post was still stupid.

You only wanted to pay $10 shipped per disc (while listing mainly blockbuster movies) and they had to be sealed AND you were listing movies that weren't even released yet.

People maybe stupid and selling off most of their collection for peanuts, but they aren't that stupid.

[velvet396]

Actually I was pretty sure their conference was cancelled - that's just a press release.

[velvet396]

that fucking sucks. glad I bought that $100 HD-A2 from wal-mart that I'll have to ebay asap. Gave one as a gift, too. Now they'll hate me for it.
apologies for a late-night knee-jerk reaction.

I'm keeping the player and that was pretty stupid to say about the gift. Their old regular DVD player was pretty shyte, so at the very least they'll enjoy a measurable jump in PQ. Also, at the rate they get movies there's plenty of content for them to enjoy.

I guess I was just shocked. The "war" hadn't made much progress prior to this point in time. Once I get in my rebate movies and sell those off (a while back I moved to "rent only" since I never watch my owned DVDs), I won't be out much money and it's not like my A2 just self-destructed in my cabinet.

EDIT: also sorry for the double-post just now, was browsing back a few pages and forgot I just posted in here.

[Ruined]

UPDATED sale list HD DVD guys!
http://cgi6.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewSellersOtherItems&userid=ruinedx&ssPageName=STRK:MEFS:MESOI

On one hand I'm pissed as hell the war turned out the way it did. On the other hand, at least its over and I can move on to more important things. The OP of this thread did a fantastic job of keeping it updated, better than news threads on home theater sites! Impressive :)

Feel free to PM me offers on any titles w/o bids.

[DestroVega]

I find it hilarious people are dumping their HD-DVDs... as if the players have self-destructed and are now rendered useless...

[dallow]

I find it hilarious people are dumping their HD-DVDs... as if the players have self-destructed and are now rendered useless...It's called, getting cash for a BD player.

Especially now when you can still get the most $ for them.

[LinkinPrime]

It's called, getting cash for a BD player.

We know why people are doing it but its retarded. You have X amount of movies in your collection that you are getting rid of to cover the cost or some of the cost of a Blu-Ray player or PS3 and you have to start your HighDef collection all over again. I gotta admit its pretty dumb. I'm keeping my HD DVD and my movies, if I ever go Blu-Ray I'll just expand on my collection.

[dallow]

See my stealth edit.

Also, some people don't like have extra equipment.

That being said.
If I were in this predicament.
I'd keep my movies. I just wouldn't buy anymore.

[DestroVega]

See my stealth edit.

Also, some people don't like have extra equipment.

That being said.
If I were in this predicament.
I'd keep my movies. I just wouldn't buy anymore.

Yeah, I'm just not buying anymore HD DVDs unless Scarface comes out soon.

my only regret is that I didn't buy most of my Warner titles in BD... 17 of the 18 i have are HD DVD... cause I got that player 2 months before my BD player.

[KaneRobot]

UPDATED sale list HD DVD guys!
http://cgi6.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewSellersOtherItems&userid=ruinedx&ssPageName=STRK:MEFS:MESOI

On one hand I'm pissed as hell the war turned out the way it did. On the other hand, at least its over and I can move on to more important things. The OP of this thread did a fantastic job of keeping it updated, better than news threads on home theater sites! Impressive :)

Thanks. I'll continue to do so for the forseeable future, or hopefully as long as titles continue to come out. I honestly don't think it's "over" for the format anytime soon, at least until the end of the year.


Also, some people don't like have extra equipment.
I definitely understand that, hell I got rid of my Wii because I wasn't using it and I've got enough crap attached to my TV already, I don't need stuff sitting there collecting dust.

But on that topic, Samsung just announced their upcoming dual format player, which is Blu-Ray profile 1.1 compatible and (supposedly) fixes the issues with their previous dual format player...plus, the price isn't THAT outrageous (MSRP $599). I still won't pick it up because there is no BD-Live functionality, but we are inching closer to "The One" that has every feature of both sides. If Blu-Ray gets up to 2.0 in the next 6-8 months (I'm not holding my breath since it took them forever to get to 1.1) I'd hope to see an complete dual format player by the end of the year.

[TrueBlueLS]

Yeah, I'm just not buying anymore HD DVDs unless Scarface comes out soon.

my only regret is that I didn't buy most of my Warner titles in BD... 17 of the 18 i have are HD DVD... cause I got that player 2 months before my BD player.

If you like the format and what it does, you're doing the wrong thing. If you want to see functionality of HD-DVD, keep spending. Toshiba wants to make Sony bleed some more money and I'm starting to think this is their last time they'll make Sony think they've won.

[Sporadic]

There's a B2G1 going on over at Amazon UK, while there aren't a ton of great deals, you could pick up

The Prestige
The Island
and one other movie

for only £35.66 ($70.38) shipped. That's only $23.46 per movie.

[rsigley]

this might see random, but does anyone know where you can buy HD DVD's in Cambridge, Mass? can't find any on the internet

Out here for work and won't be coming back until really late saturday and want to watch zodiac as soon as I get home :D

[thrustbucket]

I really don't understand dumping HD DVD's either. You will be worse off. If you completely switch to blu ray, you still won't be getting any Universal or Paramount movies. Not for a while anyway.

[mykevermin]

I really don't understand dumping HD DVD's either. You will be worse off. If you completely switch to blu ray, you still won't be getting any Universal or Paramount movies. Not for a while anyway.

Well, there are a handful of Paramount titles you won't get, including, lamentably, Transformers. It's not too hard to find their catalog stuff with two exceptions: Shooter (doesn't matter to me at all) and The Untouchables (which I would like a copy of).

Forward looking, however, you're quite right.

[Bezerker]

If you dont mind having an extra player, you might as well keep your hd-dvds. The HD versions of Warner discs sometimes have more special features, and Warner screws up a lot more on BR discs (Terminator 3, Harry Potter giftset).

[chicagoz]

I'm not selling all my HD DVDs or my 360 add-on. But I won't go running out to buy a PS3, either. I did plan on buying a PS3 in the summer, but I don't think this is going to make me buy one sooner.

[Sporadic]

UPDATED sale list HD DVD guys!
http://cgi6.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewSellersOtherItems&userid=ruinedx&ssPageName=STRK:MEFS:MESOI

On one hand I'm pissed as hell the war turned out the way it did. On the other hand, at least its over and I can move on to more important things. The OP of this thread did a fantastic job of keeping it updated, better than news threads on home theater sites! Impressive :)

Feel free to PM me offers on any titles w/o bids.

The Bridge to Terabithia import for $25 shipped, how could I ever pass that up? :-# If you also have the Tomb Raider 2 import, PM me.

[velvet396]

there was talk of a "community movie night" type thing with Harry Potter. could someone explain that in more detail? Everyone watches the movie then comes back and posts about it? That can't be it.

[LinkinPrime]

there was talk of a "community movie night" type thing with Harry Potter. could someone explain that in more detail? Everyone watches the movie then comes back and posts about it? That can't be it.

One of the features of HP5 is to be able to have a host start the movie with other users watching it at the same time, meaning that the host could pause it and it will be paused on your end as well. The movie also has a chatroom feature, so this is where "community movie night" comes in. Its like hosting/playing a Live game just with a movie and texting on screen.

[KaneRobot]

there was talk of a "community movie night" type thing with Harry Potter. could someone explain that in more detail? Everyone watches the movie then comes back and posts about it? That can't be it.
Link already hit it, but to expand - you can sign up on the Warner site and make an account - similar to signing up for an instant messaging service - and add people to your buddylist. This can be done throught the Warner site or through the menus on the HD DVD itself. The Warner site is here:

http://hddvd.warnerbros.com/hdc/reg/login.do

Once the person who is going to "lead" the screening sets the time and invites everyone who plans on attending, you're all set. When the screening starts, the person leading in the screening controls all of the players. You can chat in real-time, I believe either with a USB keyboard plugged in, OR you can type it in on your PC on the Warner site and it will appear onscreen.

If anyone signs up let me know and I will add them to my list. As I said earlier, this may be the only time we see this feature for a while since Warner is on the way out and Blu-Ray is still catching up.


How are people doing on this? Guyver, are you caught up yet? Anyone interested, let's try to do it this week sometime.

[velvet396]

Link already hit it, but to expand - you can sign up on the Warner site and make an account - similar to signing up for an instant messaging service - and add people to your buddylist. This can be done throught the Warner site or through the menus on the HD DVD itself. The Warner site is here:

http://hddvd.warnerbros.com/hdc/reg/login.do

Once the person who is going to "lead" the screening sets the time and invites everyone who plans on attending, you're all set. When the screening starts, the person leading in the screening controls all of the players. You can chat in real-time, I believe either with a USB keyboard plugged in, OR you can type it in on your PC on the Warner site and it will appear onscreen.

If anyone signs up let me know and I will add them to my list. As I said earlier, this may be the only time we see this feature for a while since Warner is on the way out and Blu-Ray is still catching up.


How are people doing on this? Guyver, are you caught up yet? Anyone interested, let's try to do it this week sometime.
That makes me cringe a bit thinking how long it'll be for BD to offer such a cool feature. I don't have the disc but this certainly is a reason to rent it - and would be awesome if more titles featured it. Come to think of it, LIVE needs this function ASAP for its video marketplace. It's not the best thing since sliced bread, but I'd definitely use it occaisonally with my clan-members and old friends who now live far away.

[jollydwarf]

I'm getting the impression that by the end of this month, it'll be pretty much over, with (virtually) every studio jumping the Good Ship HD-DVD through a chain reaction of contractual 'out clauses'. The way I understand it, even if a studio like Warner will technically be supporting HD-DVD until May, that doesn't necessarily mean they'll keep releasing new titles, will they? Are a bunch of seemingly imminent 2008 HD-DVD releases from defecting studios going to be canceled outright?

Also, it sounds like most retail (and online?) stores are going to quickly reduce then eliminate their HD-DVD sections. I just got an HD-DVD player not to rebuy movies I already have on DVD, but instead to start buying new releases/movies I somehow didn't already have on a better-looking format. Am I pretty much screwed here, or can I safely look forward to enough titles this calendar year to make my purchase worthwhile? When will the mass liquidation of stock begin?

[rsigley]

nice, my first whv disaster

i made an order the day before the WB announcement

i decided to get the movies on blu ray instead of HD DVD bc of the announcement so i emailed them to cancel, no reply

i call and after 40 minutes they say they will contact the warehouse to cancel

monday it says in process on their website so i call again and they confirm they're canceled and the website is just slow to update

check email today and they shipped out the movies to my house and the pre orders are still in process, woman on the phone says they weren't canceled and has no notes about the order to be canceled

argh

[DomLando]

Well I received another Ocean's Trilogy from WHV today which I never got charged for. Up on Ebay it goes.

[LinkinPrime]

Sweet, got x2 free Ocean's Trilogy from WHV...:D One to keep one to eBay

[Ice2Dragon]

Got Zodiac and White noise today.

Zodiac is phenomenal.. WN is a huge ass disappointment.. Honestly the DVD upconverted looks better -_-V

[KaneRobot]

Are a bunch of seemingly imminent 2008 HD-DVD releases from defecting studios going to be canceled outright?
From Warner? I'd guess we'll see some stuff pulled before they are officially gone, sure. I think Universal and Paramount will be around for a while.

No idea how to answer your other questions since it is all up in the air. I'd just enjoy what you have now and continue to purchase whatever titles grab you, but if it's a source of constant distraction and worry just dump it off.



Frankly, I just got a new job yesterday that pays a LOT more than I was making before, so I'm actually thinking about picking up a standalone A-35 since I'm sure plenty of retailers are scared now.





Anyone else pick up Zodiac yet? I'm getting pretty tempted to buy it.

[Richlough]

Universal will go down with the ship .

[DarkNessBear]

Sweeney Todd and I Am Legend HDDVD exclusive?

[LinkinPrime]

Sweeney Todd and I Am Legend HDDVD exclusive?

Sweeny Todd (Paramount) - So Far Yes
I Am Legend (Warner) - Both if before May or Blu Exclusive if after May.

[captainfrizo]

I Am Legend (Warner) - Both if before May or Blu Exclusive if after May.

I wouldn't be shocked if it somehow "slips" until after May.

If it is available for HD-DVD, I'll pick it up on that format over BD. If it's Blu-Ray exclusive, well, I'll have to pick it up on that.

[LinkinPrime]

I wouldn't be shocked if it somehow "slips" until after May.

If it is available for HD-DVD, I'll pick it up on that format over BD. If it's Blu-Ray exclusive, well, I'll have to pick it up on that.

Oh, I'm sure that there will be "slips" after all, we have to deal with the BS of waiting a "short period" for the HD DVD release after a movie is released on DVD and Blu-Ray.

[tenzor]

Oh, I'm sure that there will be "slips" after all, we have to deal with the BS of waiting a "short period" for the HD DVD release after a movie is released on DVD and Blu-Ray.

yeah it sucks, but its better then nothing. I'll probably just get I Am Legend on Blu Ray instead of HD-DVD. I wonder why Warner is still releasing HD-DVDs when they are going Blu Ray only. If there is a reason, then I can almost guess the HD-DVD short period thing is to make people think its Blu-Ray only on release week, then after they already picked up the Blu Ray version the HD-DVD version will come out.

[Lice]

I wonder why Warner is still releasing HD-DVDs when they are going Blu Ray only.

Warner is on a contract until June 1st. Thats the day they stop. Until then They have to keep on trucking.

Side note, New line, warners sister company will not be making any more Pans Labrinth on HD DVD, so once the initial stock is gone that will be it. Since its so few its supposed to become a collectors item.

[Sporadic]

Frankly, I just got a new job yesterday that pays a LOT more than I was making before, so I'm actually thinking about picking up a standalone A-35 since I'm sure plenty of retailers are scared now.

I haven't really seen any player prices drop. You could always pick up a A30 for kind of cheap from Amazon.

Side note, New line, warners sister company will not be making any more Pans Labrinth on HD DVD, so once the initial stock is gone that will be it. Since its so few its supposed to become a collectors item.

That's a shame, Pan's Labyrinth was one of the best overall HD-DVDs I've seen so far.

[Ice2Dragon]

Omg Yes!

The Ten Is Coming To Hd Dvd :)

Hellz Yeah

[DarkNessBear]

Warner is on a contract until June 1st. Thats the day they stop. Until then They have to keep on trucking.

Side note, New line, warners sister company will not be making any more Pans Labrinth on HD DVD, so once the initial stock is gone that will be it. Since its so few its supposed to become a collectors item.

Yea, I'm still waiting for my copy of Pans Labrynth on Bluray....

:bouncy:

[Sporadic]

(Does anyone else think we need a separate HD and Blu-Ray FS/FT thread?)

Not only are you in the wrong forum but we actually already have one that's stickied.

http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=160149

- edit Oh you sneaky fucker ;)

[geko29]

Anyone else pick up Zodiac yet? I'm getting pretty tempted to buy it.
Mine's coming today, but I probably won't be able to watch it for a week or two.

[Sporadic]

Warner announced that their last title will be Twister.

Hooray?

Warner Home Video has announced that the first film in the world to debut on the DVD format, Twister (1996), will at last be available to own in high-definition on the Special Edition HD DVD disc. The HD DVD is expected to be priced at $28.99 SRP a copy.

Main feature will be presented in:
- 1080p High-Definition 16x9 2.4:1
- Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (English)
- Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 (English & French)
- English [SDH] & French subtitle options

Bonus contents include:
- Commentary by director Jan De Bont and Visual Effects Supervisor Stefan Fangmeir
- New Featurette “Chasing the Storm: Twister Revisited”
- The History Channel Documentary “Nature Tech: Tornadoes”
- Anatomy of a Twister
- HBO First Look: The Making of Twister
- Van Halen “Humans Being” Music Video
- Theatrical Trailers

Also Dreamworks announced Bee Movie and the slight delay of two releases.

DreamWorks Home Entertainment has announced that Bee Movie will be available to own in high-definition exclusively on HD DVD, come March 11, for $39.99 SRP a copy. Full details coming soon...

DreamWorks has also confirmed that Things We Lost in the Fire HD DVD will be released on March 4 instead of February 12.

Similarly, Paramount's Into the Wild HD DVD will be released on March 4 too instead of February 12.

http://hddvdformat.blogspot.com/

[LinkinPrime]

Warner announced that their last title will be Twister.

Hooray?



Also Dreamworks announced Bee Movie and the slight delay of two releases.



http://hddvdformat.blogspot.com/

Where in that statement does it say "last title on HD DVD"?

[Sporadic]

Where in that statement does it say "last title on HD DVD"?

Whoops, I missed that "at" part. :-#

Sorry, I'm rolling on very little sleep.

[jollydwarf]

What's the likelihood that one or both versions of the Matrix trilogy on HD-DVD will go out of print ASAP? I really don't want to throw $60-80 down now, if avoidable.

[Sporadic]

What's the likelihood that one or both versions of the Matrix trilogy on HD-DVD will go out of print ASAP? I really don't want to throw $60-80 down now, if avoidable.

ASAP?

Not very likely I imagine. Even if it did go OOP, you would think that they would be readily available in the used market.

[Trakan]

What's the likelihood that one or both versions of the Matrix trilogy on HD-DVD will go out of print ASAP? I really don't want to throw $60-80 down now, if avoidable.

Buy mine.

[KaneRobot]

These delays (especially Bee Movie) seem a little bit fishy to me, although I think that may just be paranoia creeping in with the recent announcements. I suppose it's not as bad as if they said it was delayed and then didn't give a revised date, though.



LOL at this thread losing a "Cheapy Head Ranking" when the Warner announcement hit. I wasn't aware the thread was suddenly worse due to a movie studio making a deal with a megacorp, but I do what I can.

[Sporadic]

These delays (especially Bee Movie) seem a little bit fishy to me, although I think that may just be paranoia creeping in with the recent announcements. I suppose it's not as bad as if they said it was delayed and then didn't give a revised date, though.

Bee Movie isn't a delay, only Things We Lost In The Fire/Into The Wild have been delayed.

[mykevermin]

There were two versions of the Matrix on HD?

[rsigley]

There were two versions of the Matrix on HD?

one is 5 disks with the movies being flippers and tons of special features

the other is 3 disks, no flippers, and some special features

[unlickedcub]

Hey cool - not to get too off topic - but do you carry a major role in that movie? I've been a horror buff for many years and it's good to see a CaG getting a piece of the action ;) - Did you check out Horrorfest this year?

DesertEagle played a SWAT team leader type dude in the movie, but I had to cut a lot of his scenes because I thought he kind of ran like a girl. Then he kept dropping his gun. I'll have to think twice about putting him in another movie. ;)

[KaneRobot]

one is 5 disks with the movies being flippers and tons of special features

To expand - the 5 disc set is basically the old Matrix DVD set, except the 3 main films are in HD.

The fact that they were flippers was enough of a deterrent for me to just go with the smaller set.

[DesertEagleXIX]

DesertEagle played a SWAT team leader type dude in the movie, but I had to cut a lot of his scenes because I thought he kind of ran like a girl. Then he kept dropping his gun. I'll have to think twice about putting him in another movie. ;)

Well, it IS your bio-pic, right? Variety said I was "Spot On", Entertainment Weekly raved, "Fantastic" and TomKat Monthly wrote, "He could be the next Jeff Stryyker" ;)

While reading the script, I just remembered all our Lost Planet matches, the fumbles and charming goofs. Daniel Day-Lewis has some competition this year.

[guyver2077]

that ultimate t2 set coming out looks insane..

also im still stuck on part 3 of the pottters. (been a busy week)..

when is everyone watching part 5 again?

[KaneRobot]

that ultimate t2 set coming out looks insane..

also im still stuck on part 3 of the pottters. (been a busy week)..

when is everyone watching part 5 again?
This weekend if you get your ass in gear!

[guyver2077]

This weekend if you get your ass in gear!

fuck.. is that those damn movies are long as balls...

[Ruined]

Here's my final update guys... Listed just about all there is to list now.
http://cgi6.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewSellersOtherItems&userid=ruinedx&ssPageName=STRK:MEFS:MESOI

Sporadic, did you get your Terabithia HD DVD yet?

[Ikohn4ever]

do you deals on shipping for multiple purchases?

[Sporadic]

Here's my final update guys... Listed just about all there is to list now.
http://cgi6.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewSellersOtherItems&userid=ruinedx&ssPageName=STRK:MEFS:MESOI

Sporadic, did you get your Terabithia HD DVD yet?

Um, no.

It's only been two days though so no worries yet.

I do want more so check your PM :)

[doubledown]

Microsoft to back Blu-Ray?

http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/844/844416p1.html

[Sporadic]

Microsoft to back Blu-Ray?

http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/844/844416p1.html

I doubt it, this isn't they first time they pulled out the "well, maybe" card on a Blu-Ray attachment.

Although if they could push out a Blu-Ray attachment for $179, I'd be all for it.

[KaneRobot]

Yeah, I have zero against MS bringing out another attachment. I'd buy a Blu-Ray attachment next week if one came out.

I'm not going to buy a standalone because I don't want to pay that much for something I'm going to replace when the Blu hardware is updated, but I wouldn't care if it only cost me 150-180 bucks.

FWIW, I also doubt it happening anytime soon. They already responded with their usual shoot-it-down to the rumors anyway.

[Richlough]

I doubt it, this isn't they first time they pulled out the "well, maybe" card on a Blu-Ray attachment.

Although if they could push out a Blu-Ray attachment for $179, I'd be all for it.

It might sound crazy but , I'd like it if I could use the HD DVD add-on with my PS3 also .
[calm down I know I can't]

[Sporadic]

It might sound crazy but , I'd like it if I could use the HD DVD add-on with my PS3 also .
[calm down I know I can't]

To be honest, since the PS3 can run Linux, I'm surprised nobody ever got the HD add-on to work with the PS3.

You think it would be as simple as getting PowerDVD to run in emulation but then again, I've never played with the PS3 and my knowledge of Linux is very basic.

[thrustbucket]

Amir has debunked those rumors profusely already on AVS. There is no blu-ray attachment being planned. He said even if they decided tomorrow to make one (and they aren't), it would take a very long time before it would hit shelves.

On another note, I have realized, after reading a lot of CES news, that HDM's days are way more numbered than I thought. I mean literally. With announcements like XtremeHD stuff (satellite VOD up to 80mb/s, 2x the bitrate of bluray) and other similar services - it's only a matter of months before HD direct download services offer a better product than can be found on shiny discs.

I know a lot of you just hate the idea of DRM'd downloads period, but you better get use to it. Because if you love your discs, they will only offer you an inferior product (bitrate etc) very soon.

Also, check this (http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/09/musicgiants-launches-videogiants-with-hd-movies-from-paramount/)out. Pretty cool idea, I like where it's headed:

The HD digital distribution club just got a little bigger, as lossless audio distributor MusicGiants is launching its VideoGiants service with 250 movies from Paramount, and additional content from HDNet. Available in 1080p or 1080i WMV format, users can purchase the movies in 10-packs for $159 delivered via Seagate hard drives or, in a few months, one at a time via direct download to a home media server. After that, it can be viewed via the media PC or Media Extender (including Xbox 360). MusicGiants has been selling HD audio tracks to high end home theater owners via its network of dealers and installers for about two years, with plans to make this type of service available to the mass market soon. Still think the future of HD content is on shiny discs?

So $160, right now, and you get 10 movies in 1080p on some hard drives shipped to you, that plug right into your Xbox. And in a couple months, download and buy them individually.

[daphatty]

Amir has debunked those rumors profusely already on AVS. There is no blu-ray attachment being planned. He said even if they decided tomorrow to make one (and they aren't), it would take a very long time before it would hit shelves.

On another note, I have realized, after reading a lot of CES news, that HDM's days are way more numbered than I thought. I mean literally. With announcements like XtremeHD stuff (satellite VOD up to 80mb/s, 2x the bitrate of bluray) and other similar services - it's only a matter of months before HD direct download services offer a better product than can be found on shiny discs.

I know a lot of you just hate the idea of DRM'd downloads period, but you better get use to it. Because if you love your discs, they will only offer you an inferior product (bitrate etc) very soon.

Also, check this (http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/09/musicgiants-launches-videogiants-with-hd-movies-from-paramount/)out. Pretty cool idea, I like where it's headed:



So $160, right now, and you get 10 movies in 1080p on some hard drives shipped to you, that plug right into your Xbox. And in a couple months, download and buy them individually.

As long as there's no DRM, I'm all for it. Otherwise, I'll keep my money thank you very much.

[thrustbucket]

As long as there's no DRM, I'm all for it. Otherwise, I'll keep my money thank you very much.

Every disc you buy has DRM too.

Why would any company create WMV's in 1080p of their movies and sell them without DRM just so they can find them on bittorent 5 minutes later?

[velvet396]

Universal's exclusivity contract expired? :(

[LinkinPrime]

Universal's exclusivity contract expired? :(

The contract in place with Toshiba expired but they haven't announced any plans to go neutral yet, they've just said that they're still supporting HD DVD.

[rsigley]

Got Zodiac and White noise today.

Zodiac is phenomenal.. WN is a huge ass disappointment.. Honestly the DVD upconverted looks better -_-V

white noise got 4/5 stars on HDD

"Although Universal's history with catalog titles has been hit or miss as of late, I’m happy to report that this 1080p/VC-1 encode is easily the best I've seen from the studio in quite a while."

[Sporadic]

Good news.

Responding to published reports that its commitment to backing HD DVD exclusively has ended, Universal has issued a new statement of support for HD DVD.

"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.

Graffeo's comments follow a report in yesterday's Variety that Universal's agreement to exclusively support HD DVD had ended and had not been renewed. The report went on to speculate that both Universal and Paramount could switch sides soon, ending the high-def format war instantly.

A Universal spokesperson told us this afternoon that the studio plans to issue new upcoming HD DVD title announcements in the near future.

The HD DVD Promotions Group is also said to be planning its own statement regarding the rumors of a Universal switch to format neutrality.

Stay tuned...

http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Industry_Trends/Universal_Re-Affirms_HD_DVD_Support/1362

Doesn't get much more offical than that.

[Ice2Dragon]

white noise got 4/5 stars on HDD

"Although Universal's history with catalog titles has been hit or miss as of late, I’m happy to report that this 1080p/VC-1 encode is easily the best I've seen from the studio in quite a while."

high def bias gives another 4/5 star review to an hd dvd movie. Shocker of the century.

One site gives it 4/5 stars, another will give it 1/5, then another 2/5, every site is different.

[Sporadic]

high def bias gives another 4/5 star review to an hd dvd movie. Shocker of the century.

One site gives it 4/5 stars, another will give it 1/5, then another 2/5, every site is different.

He is referring to the PQ rating and you suck, that's why HDD got rid of you not because they are bias.

[Ice2Dragon]

He is referring to the PQ rating and you suck, that's why HDD got rid of you not because they are bias.

Mkay. Must suck to have to pay 50 bucks to import movies I get for 20 here on blu ray :)

Yes, I left the site. Makes sense. :(

once again, sporadic jumps all over me without even reading what I said.

Every WEBSITE REVIEWS MOVIES DIFFERENTLY.

lets take for example the 28 days later video quality.

Blu ray.com = 4.5
HDD = 1.5

Theres tons of descripincies for EVERY movie, detail to grain, directors intention, etc.

Its up to the REVIEWER WHO REVIEWS the movie to get an accurate PQ assessment.

Notice how theres rarely ever a review THAT AGREES with another on everything.

Some sites gave Sunshine 5 star video/audio, others gave it 4.

Its all based on WHO reviews it and how THEY perceive it, but once again, your anti Ice2Dragon strikes again.

Thats why there are 1000000 of review sites for movies, why there are millions of reviewers for movies out there.

Everyones opinion is different.

[Sporadic]

words

He is referring to the PQ rating and you suck, that's why HDD got rid of you not because they are bias.

fixed

also eat a dick

[dallow]

Good news.



http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Industry_Trends/Universal_Re-Affirms_HD_DVD_Support/1362

Doesn't get much more offical than that.Reminds me of Warner's PR when they said they wouldn't pick a side, just before they picked a side.

I do like that both Paramount and Universal simply say they will support HD DVD, and not refute the claim that they will also support BD soon.

[rsigley]

so i guess what you're saying is don't trust blu-ray.com for unbiased reviews

how can you give 28 days later 4/5 stars for video when it wasn't even shot on film or in HD and everyone says it looks horrible

i trust HDD reviews the most, tho sometimes the JOshua whoever guy lets his hate or love for a movie influence the rest of the ratings IMO

but peter bracke and the other guy are always very accurate

[guyver2077]

amazon continues to have nice deals on the players

i think the a3 was 149
a30 199
a35 299

Im keeping my eye on the a35..

[guyver2077]

man.. amazon has method man hd dvd at 13.95 preorder..

thats tempting

[rsigley]

did anyone order simpsons from FYE and get a ton of posters in the mail?

got home from a business trip and there was a box from FYE full of like 60 posters for simpsons the movie on dvd

like this one

http://i19.tinypic.com/8foz881.jpg

and a bunch of the family and other crap

[guyver2077]

so i was watching potter 3 and all of a sudden the electricity goes out in my room..

my room is the only one in the whole house without power!!!1 im so pissed!


edit- 360 addon to the rescue.. watching potter now on my laptop.. if this power shit doesnt get fixed soon, it looks like me and my addon are going to spend more time together

[KaneRobot]

Sigh. So my HMV order for Band of Brothers is kind of just hanging there...some people who ordered within the last day or three are getting a "delayed indefinitely" email, but I haven't received that yet. I ordered a week ago, mine still says "On Order" for volumes 2, 3, and 4 with an expected delivery of 1/16 (which obviously won't happen).

Volumes 1 and 5 on that order are ready to go, and I managed to track down volumes 3 and 4 on Amazon Japan. Yes, they cost a bit more, but I didn't really care since they are becoming tricky to find.

So if anyone sees Volume 2 anywhere, be it new or used, let me know. In the meantime I'll leave my HMV order open and cross my fingers.

[guyver2077]

im finally up to the 5th potter!

edit- great- i think my tv is dead now

[rsigley]

vanns already shipped my new tv, coming on wednesday :D

did anyone pick up mobsters? haven't seen a review for it and i'm always hesitant on universal catalog releases since they're so inconsistant

[thrustbucket]

Toshiba has responded (http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/01-14-2008/0004735440&EDATE=#)with a new marketing strategy/press statement.

The most important thing they mentioned was starting now, the MSRP of their players are A3 at $149, A30 at $199 and the A35 at $299. Of course, street prices will be lower.

Some people see this as a fire sale, while others (like me), see this as Toshiba playing their next card. In the next 6 months HD DVD players will cost the same as a new good DVD player. If they can get enough people in the market to buy a new DVD player to buy an HD DVD player instead, then the trojan horse effect kicks in. 18 months from now if there are several times more HD DVD players in people's homes than Blu Ray, it will make it hard for studios to ignore.

[doubledown]

Toshiba has responded (http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/01-14-2008/0004735440&EDATE=#)with a new marketing strategy/press statement.

The most important thing they mentioned was starting now, the MSRP of their players are A3 at $149, A30 at $199 and the A35 at $299. Of course, street prices will be lower.

Some people see this as a fire sale, while others (like me), see this as Toshiba playing their next card. In the next 6 months HD DVD players will cost the same as a new good DVD player. If they can get enough people in the market to buy a new DVD player to buy an HD DVD player instead, then the trojan horse effect kicks in. 18 months from now if there are several times more HD DVD players in people's homes than Blu Ray, it will make it hard for studios to ignore.

Although, why would people buy HD-DVD if not many studios support it? I think most people who are aware with HD/BD know that BD took a major leap forward during CES. I for one would not buy an HD-DVD player at this point. I'm not going to throw $150 away in hopes that it WILL come back.

[guyver2077]

The prices on the players are great.

Now they need to at the very least get Weinstein involved again (or by some miracle get another studio), ADVERTISE, and maybe knock a few bucks off the msrp on movies.

Bottom line they just need some positive press. I am tired of hearing about fire sale, last ditch efforts, etc. All this negative press is just losing them space on store shelves and causing owners to ditch the format.

[LinkinPrime]

Toshiba has responded (http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/01-14-2008/0004735440&EDATE=#)with a new marketing strategy/press statement.

The most important thing they mentioned was starting now, the MSRP of their players are A3 at $149, A30 at $199 and the A35 at $299. Of course, street prices will be lower.

Some people see this as a fire sale, while others (like me), see this as Toshiba playing their next card. In the next 6 months HD DVD players will cost the same as a new good DVD player. If they can get enough people in the market to buy a new DVD player to buy an HD DVD player instead, then the trojan horse effect kicks in. 18 months from now if there are several times more HD DVD players in people's homes than Blu Ray, it will make it hard for studios to ignore.

They also have a new marketing plan...though its most likely too late:
The manufacturer also unveiled plans to roll out a "stepped up" marketing campaign with its studio partners that would put renewed emphasis on the benefits HD DVD brings to a consumer's current DVD library by upconverting standard DVDs.
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Toshiba/Toshiba_Slashes_HD_DVD_Player_Prices_Shifts_Market ing_Focus/1366

Their marketing has always been horrible, I still remember seeing posters for Shrek The Third at the mall and all they said was "Coming to DVD on ____" no mention of HD DVD...marketing from them is a joke, hope they do step it up, though with Warner being gone It just seems like their doggy paddling to stay afloat until they get tired and drown...I hope I'm wrong though.

[gunm]

The A3 on amazon dropped to a bit over $171.

But I agree with those that are saying it's too little too late. You're not going to sell players w/o content and while there's stuff out there now and a little more coming on the horizon, the public perception is that most of the movies and such are going BR.

What's the story outside of the US, though? There's a different set of rules for Europe and Asia...could HD-DVD continue to expand in those markets?

[KaneRobot]

I wish they'd announce the 4th gen players already, if they plan on doing them. I don't even care if they don't come out until summer, I just want to know if they're coming.

If not, I'll get an A35 in the coming months.

[thrustbucket]

Although, why would people buy HD-DVD if not many studios support it? I think most people who are aware with HD/BD know that BD took a major leap forward during CES. I for one would not buy an HD-DVD player at this point. I'm not going to throw $150 away in hopes that it WILL come back.

Eh, I don't know. Blu ray still doesn't have 100% of studio support, which still scares off 90% of possible consumers. So in a very real sense, the war is still here, and has only moved slightly to one side.

Spend $400 on a format with most studio support.

or

Spend just over $100 for a DVD player that can also play a smattering of HD DVD's should you want too.

Toshiba is smart. It's clear they intend to compete directly with DVD players this year. Their goal being HD DVD playback just being a "Feature" of newer DVD players. They can't compete with blu ray head on anymore, so why not plummet prices and compete with DVD?

I call it the Trojan Horse Hail Mary.

I do expect to see A3's just over $100 soon, and I will buy one when they go below $130

[SteveMcQ]

They really needed to push the benefits of HD-DVD over Blu-Ray earlier on. I listen to so many podcasts and hear hosts saying they prefer Blu-Ray, yet they can't support why they feel this way. It just feels so much more like a complete technology, given what's available across all discs.

[velvet396]

Warner actually was planning to go HD DVD exclusive... until Fox stepped in.
PIttsburgh Post-Gazette columnist Don Lindich reports a dirty bit about Warner's defection to Blu-ray that we had uncovered in our own reporting of the format war at CES (http://www.gizmodo.com/tag/ces-2008/hd-dvd), and which we had confirmed through a different source (except for the payouts), though were holding close to our chest while we worked some other angles. Warner actually wanted to go HD DVD. They gave Toshiba the chance to bring another studio into the HD DVD camp before they turned Blu. Fox was lined up, and told the HD DVD camp it was going to switch to HD DVD, which would've also turned Warner exclusively HD DVD. At the last possible minute, Fox nixed the deal. Lindich says it's because Fox received a reported $120 million payout from Sony. Warner then switched and received between $400 and $500 million for its defection to stay Blu-ray— BW says it's closer to $400 million (http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&ct=us/0-0&fp=478b16a5c89493da&ei=NsaLR_GSDoncygSiybmrDA&url=http%3A//www.businessweek.com/technology/content/jan2008/tc2008014_928006.htm%3Fchan%3Dtop%2bnews_top%2bnew s%2bindex_top%2bstory&cid=0). In our phone call with Warner (http://gizmodo.com/340956/interview-why-warner-went-full-throttle-with-blu+ray), Kevin Tsujihara said it wasn't a bidding war that brought them over—that's true, in the words of Ben Kenobi, from a certain point of view.
[Post-Gazette (http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08012/848675-96.stm)]


http://gizmodo.com/344680/the-real-reason-warner-went-blu+ray

[Ice2Dragon]

Has anyone picked up the TEN yet?

My copy from amazon STILL didnt ship.. and I have prime -_-V

The ten looks hilarious.. and its decently priced.

And of course no stores in the area carry it -_-V

[Sporadic]

Hell yeah!

Looks like we are getting I Am Legend.

Warner Bros. will release "I am Legend" on DVD, HD DVD and Blu-ray.

The 2 disc DVD and Blu-ray release will arrive on March 18th. The HD DVD will follow on April 8th.

Extras include a "Alternative Theatrical Version with a Controversial Ending" as the studio puts.

More when we have it!

http://www.dvdtown.com/news/i-am-legend-on-dvd-hd-dvd-and-blu-ray/5129

I hated most of the CGI and the ending but besides that I thought it was pretty good.

[LinkinPrime]

Hell yeah!

Looks like we are getting I Am Legend.



http://www.dvdtown.com/news/i-am-legend-on-dvd-hd-dvd-and-blu-ray/5129

I hated most of the CGI and the ending but besides that I thought it was pretty good.

Sweet!

[captainfrizo]

It's going to be hard to wait until April 8th for the HD-DVD of I Am Legend when I could get the BD edition a lot sooner, but I said I'll get the HD-DVD releases of movies and by God I'm going to stand by my words.

[Sporadic]

Looks like BBC isn't going with Warner into Blu-Ray exclusivity at the moment which is fantastic news for me. Planet Earth/Galapagos are my two favorite demo disc and I enjoy importing some of their titles from the UK (Twenty Thousand Streets Under The Sky is a fantastic mini-series)

The BBC: Their Planet Earth releases on HD DVD and Blu-ray Disc are among the best-selling hi-def packages out there, and their Galapagos release has been praised. We directly contacted BBC Video and asked what their hi-def format plans would be. They've replied that they will continue to support both formats for now, and "will evaluate the marketplace before committing to one format". The reason given for the steady support of both HD DVD and Blu-ray is because they have sold more copies of Planet Earth on HD-DVD, and because they already have 4 different high-definition titles planned for 2008, spec'ed out for both Blu-ray and HD DVD. Specific title names were not available yet.

While the decision of The BBC may be a surprise to some of you, the superior sales of the HD DVD edition for Planet Earth made a real difference to them. They may, of course, revisit their decision. For now, though, they will continue to support both next-gen formats.

http://www.tvshowsondvd.com/news/Site-News-More-Hi-Def-Decisions/8765

[thrustbucket]

Warner actually was planning to go HD DVD exclusive... until Fox stepped in.

[Post-Gazette (http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08012/848675-96.stm)]


http://gizmodo.com/344680/the-real-reason-warner-went-blu+ray


That story is new, but what it's saying was known on the 5th. Old news, it's just sad that so many people are ambivalent and just want HD no matter how dirty of a cartel they have to support to get it. Maybe I'm just a weirdo in trying to having standards about this sort of stuff, I dunno.

[thrustbucket]

Looks like BBC isn't going with Warner into Blu-Ray exclusivity at the moment which is fantastic news for me. Planet Earth/Galapagos are my two favorite demo disc and I enjoy importing some of their titles from the UK (Twenty Thousand Streets Under The Sky is a fantastic mini-series)



http://www.tvshowsondvd.com/news/Site-News-More-Hi-Def-Decisions/8765
An interesting article (http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/7187179.stm) that is somewhat negative on Blu Ray by the BBC.

Kind of interesting and coincides with Sporadic's post.

[LinkinPrime]

An interesting article (http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/7187179.stm) that is somewhat negative on Blu Ray by the BBC.

Kind of interesting and coincides with Sporadic's post.

That's one of the major reasons why HD DVD is better for all consumers and would have been THE format of choice had Warner (and Fox) not backstabed Toshiba.

[rsigley]

looks like warner is delaying assassination of jesse james 6 weeks on HD DVD not 3 :(

the blu ray got pushed up 3 weeks to feb 5th and hd dvd still at march 18th

guess i'll have to grab that on blu ray since i've been waiting for it

3 weeks is okay to wait, but 6 is pushing it

[velvet396]

my wal-mart currently has on :hd: for $14.96:
Pulse
Sleepy Hollow
Italian Job
Four Brothers
Lucky # Slevin

any of them worth it? (excluding Ital. Job, got it pending rebate offer)

[LinkinPrime]

my wal-mart currently has on :hd: for $14.96:
Pulse
Sleepy Hollow
Italian Job
Four Brothers
Lucky # Slevin

any of them worth it? (excluding Ital. Job, got it pending rebate offer)

Pulse - NO
Sleepy Hollow - Yes
Four Brothers - Yes
Luck # Slevin - Yes

All those are great films and I highly recommend them.

[Ice2Dragon]

my wal-mart currently has on :hd: for $14.96:
Pulse
Sleepy Hollow
Italian Job
Four Brothers
Lucky # Slevin

any of them worth it? (excluding Ital. Job, got it pending rebate offer)

I actually loved pulse.. but im bias cuz of Kristen Bell *sighs*

Lucky # Slevin was GREAT!

The others are.. meh -_-

[Sporadic]

my wal-mart currently has on :hd: for $14.96:
Pulse
Sleepy Hollow
Italian Job
Four Brothers
Lucky # Slevin

any of them worth it? (excluding Ital. Job, got it pending rebate offer)

Lucky # Slevin is ok.

Overrated and slightly predictable but besides that it isn't bad.

[velvet396]

Pulse - NO
Sleepy Hollow - Yes
Four Brothers - Yes
Luck # Slevin - Yes

All those are great films and I highly recommend them.

How's resale? I plan on doing blockbuster.com soon... unless one of those have cool extras or any other reason to *own* the film. :)

[rsigley]

thanks ruined, got my movies todya

all are in great shape :D

[doubledown]

How's resale? I plan on doing blockbuster.com soon... unless one of those have cool extras or any other reason to *own* the film. :)

Resale on 4 Brothers is limited as it is a rebate movie. Although, resale on most HD-DVD's have gone done recently.

[thrustbucket]

I actually loved pulse.. but im bias cuz of Kristen Bell *sighs*

Lucky # Slevin was GREAT!

The others are.. meh -_-

The original Japanese version of Pulse was far better, of course it didn't have her in it though.

I am sure the same will be the case for the upcoming Jessica Alba movie The Eye. Great asian movie, can't wait to see how they screw up the american version. Too bad they can't just release the originals instead.

[velvet396]

hate to spread this and make it worse, but hddvdboxsets.com is having an awesome sale. site's crawling or not working currently, but check out the google cache and see what I mean. $8-$15 and free shipping (when you checkout it bounces you back to amazon).

[KaneRobot]

They shipped my remaining three Band of Brothers discs from HMV today. Thank the LAWD.

[Sporadic]

hate to spread this and make it worse, but hddvdboxsets.com is having an awesome sale. site's crawling or not working currently, but check out the google cache and see what I mean. $8-$15 and free shipping (when you checkout it bounces you back to amazon).

That site is setting off my scamdar pretty hard.

It talks about "secure Amazon checkout" but it isn't an Amazon site. The whois has the website registered under VSG Marketing, which I can't make heads or tails of what they are.

They shipped my remaining three Band of Brothers discs from HMV today. Thank the LAWD.

Glad to see they actually got your stuff out.

[Sarang01]

The original Japanese version of Pulse was far better, of course it didn't have her in it though.

I am sure the same will be the case for the upcoming Jessica Alba movie The Eye. Great asian movie, can't wait to see how they screw up the american version. Too bad they can't just release the originals instead.

The ending was so bittersweet. I can't see how they fuck that up unless they're complete morons.

[Deadpool]

The ending was so bittersweet. I can't see how they fuck that up unless they're complete morons.

No they actually just fucked up the entire movie. I don't even think they watched the original...

[Sporadic]

I know this isn't for everybody but I'm very excited about this release. I really enjoy orchestra stuff.

EuroArts has announced Gustav Mahler: Symphony No. 2 in C Minor Resurrection will be available to own in high-definition exclusively on HD DVD, come Feb 26, for $34.99 SRP a copy. Full disc specs follow...
1080i High-Definition 16x9
Dolby TrueHD 5.1 and Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1
English, French, German & Spanish subtitle options

http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/6659/mahlerno2symphonyhdagq5.jpg



Trailer (http://www.euroarts.com/artikel/dvd/?id=005441_boulez_conducts_mahler_no_2)

------------------

- edit I also have a lot of 16 HD-DVDs (11 sealed, 5 used) up for sale in the trading forum.

http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=168923

Not bad at all if you are looking to build up your collection a little.

[thrustbucket]

Any little bit helps.

Think I'm going to jump on the best buy deal for an A3 and two free movies for $150 this week.

I know this isn't for everybody but I'm very excited about this release. I really enjoy orchestra stuff.



Trailer (http://www.euroarts.com/artikel/dvd/?id=005441_boulez_conducts_mahler_no_2)

------------------

- edit I also have a lot of 16 HD-DVDs (11 sealed, 5 used) up for sale in the trading forum.

http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=168923

Not bad at all if you are looking to build up your collection a little.

[LinkinPrime]

Cloverfield hits DVD sometime in April...guess for now its safe to assume the HD DVD will at the same time:
http://forum.dvdtalk.com/showthread.php?t=523103&page=1&pp=25 (post #24)
Thanks to deadite76 for the link.

[rsigley]

damn, i got my new tv from vann's today

except the stand is all messed up

2 of the main pieces were really cracked and the other was slightly

1-2 weeks for the company to send out replacement parts

friggin wanna watch zodiac

got hype for nothing haha

plus carrying a 60 inch tv up 2 flights of stairs with a 90 lb girl = problem

[Sporadic]

Pretty interesting interview with Ken Graffeo.

In an exclusive interview with BetaNews, Ken Graffeo, executive vice president for Universal Studios and also the co-president of HD DVD, provided a behind-the-scenes look at the high-def industry and said that, despite the rumors, HD DVD is here to stay. But he does leave the door open to ending the format war by coming to some sort of an agreement with Blu-ray.

Nate Mook: Let's start with a little background. You work for Universal, but you are also the co-president of the HD DVD Promotional Group. Does this create a conflict of interest?

Ken Graffeo: I am the executive vice president of high-def strategic marketing. So my role at Universal is in the high-def format, and being that we're in HD DVD exclusively, that's where I'm concentrated. We setup the Promotional Group in the early summer of 2006, and board members include Microsoft, Toshiba, HP, Intel, Paramount, Universal and Warner Bros. It's very similar to the Blu-ray Disc Association -- we have committees and our goal is to work together educating the consumer and our retailers on the format.

Nate Mook: How does it change things in the Promotional Group now that Warner Bros. has stated its intention to go Blu-ray exclusive once its contract obligations end?

Ken Graffeo: Well, we heard about the whole move when everyone else did -- when a lot of us were on planes flying to CES in Las Vegas. To be very honest with you, we have not addressed that yet -- Warner is still releasing HD DVD titles up until May. Warner has always been in two formats, and prior to Paramount's switch, they had been in two formats, so now that Warner is exclusive... we just haven't addressed it yet.

NM: There was a lot of surprise when you canceled the CES press conference and meetings after Warner jumped ship. It appeared to many that you were simply giving up. Two weeks after the fact, do you regret canceling everything?

KG: It's very easy to look back and say "I could have" because you always know the result. But at the time... imagine the orchestration of a press event with the presenters, the scripts, the entire presentation, videos that were produced -- everything. The crew was already setting up and we were on a plane on Friday, so not being able to get back to everyone to say "how do we make a change for Sunday" was very difficult. And what are the answers? We had no idea because we were reading and hearing about Warner's move the same time everyone else was.

If we had our press event on Monday, it would have been different, but because it was right there on Sunday and we heard Friday afternoon we couldn't even get to everybody. If I had to go back, it was probably the right thing to do. The entire flow of the presentation would have had to been changed. When we found out at the last minute, we had to regroup and say "Toshiba, what are you doing?" and we didn't have any answers. I hate to stand in front of someone and say I don't have an answer, I don't know what's going on.

At that time, not knowing and being so last minute, we had to make some changes. I will say that Toshiba went forward with their press event, which I applaud them for.

NM: After Warner essentially stabbed you in the back, speculation was rampant that Universal and Paramount would do the same, effectively killing HD DVD. There was also a lot of talk about the phrase "current" being used in the statements. Where does Universal stand on this -- are you willing to say you have an ongoing, future commitment?

KG: First of all, I want to say that none of those rumors were substantiated. Nobody ever talked to us. I know nobody talked to Paramount because Brenda, their PR person, sent out a statement immediately. This is business as usual for us and there are no plans to make any changes. We just made an announcement of our new HD DVD titles yesterday, with American Gangster. We also have a lot of other things planned. It's business as usual.

NM: Sony claims that the PS3 has given Blu-ray the market lead -- is this just posturing so Blu-ray can tout higher sales numbers? Is the PS3 really seen in Hollywood as a device that sells movies?

KG: I'll go back to what we've said over and over: the set-top player is the primary movie device. If you look at the attach rate of how many movies are bought for dedicated HD DVD players versus how many movies were sold for the PS3 and the Blu-ray set-top players combined, it's a 4 to 1 gap. Which says that people who own game machines are not buying at the same rate as someone who owns a set-top. And on the DVD side, your primary player is a set-top.

If you go to a store -- let's say a Best Buy or a Circuit City -- and buy an HDTV and then you want to get your movies to look better, you go to the DVD section -- you don't go to the game section. We have always been believers, not only historically but looking at a lot of recent research that has been done, that for the consumer their preference is a set-top.

The one thing that's different now compared with VHS is that when you bought a DVD player, you could not play your VHS on it. People didn't really have libraries in the days of VHS, because movies were really rented -- 80% of the business was rental. Today it's different because both Blu-ray and HD DVD are backwards compatible, so you have to take that into consideration. In turn, people want a set-top player that lets them play their current movies just as they do now, not on a game console.

NM: Price seems to be the major leverage HD DVD has, even with less studios than Blu-ray. Do you still believe other studios will come around if you sell enough players? This was the belief when we spoke to Microsoft's Kevin Collins 8 months ago.

KG: I can't speak for the other studios, because I don't know how they are thinking. But what was very encouraging is that when we were at CES we met with a lot of retailers. And the retailers openly said, that as much as they hate having two formats they are not making any changes, because they want to wait for what the consumer does. We've always said we want to follow the consumer.

Consumers right now are buying upconverting players -- they are outselling the next-gen players combined by 10 to 1 every month. They are affordable because they are under $200 -- the average price is $85 -- and consumers want to see their movies better. So pricing is very important. We saw that on DVD: as soon as price point went under $200 and as soon as it started getting close to $100 players really started taking off because you're hitting very consumer-friendly prices. If you want to hit the mass market, you have to be consumer-friendly in price. If you want to be a niche electronic, you're going to be high priced.

NM: From a strictly consumer standpoint, HD DVD seems to make the most sense: players are cheaper, combination discs are possible, which enables a smooth transition. Blu-ray players are still in flux and current models except the PS3 won't be upgradable to Profile 2.0. Blu-ray is pitching players that will be obsolete in a year, and discs that lack the interactivity found on HD DVD. Why hasn't there been more of a marketing message on this from HD DVD?

KG: The consumer today is very confused about HD. Only 12% of all households are getting HD programming, but 35% of households have HDTVs. We have spent a lot of time, and will continue to try to educate the consumer because there's a lot of confusion on what this means. When you're watching a TV show and the logo says in high definition and you don't have your source for high definition, it further adds to the confusion. People don't understand this.

People have a library of DVDs, people understand HD and know it looks better. But they're not thinking about it from a format perspective, they are thinking "I want my movies in high-def."

I think education has been very important and is something we have to continue doing. In Toshiba's recent press release, they said they will have an aggressive marketing campaign that will be launched very soon that will complement their new pricing strategy.

Nate Mook: Apple CEO Steve Jobs recently said that "clearly, Blu-ray won the format war," but noted that all next-generation physical media won't serve a purpose, because consumers will receive content digitally. What are your thoughts on this? NBC Universal is investing in online delivery of content and Hulu.com.

Ken Graffeo: First off all, the technology today is not ready to provide that full experience of getting the high-quality video instantaneously to the home. You've got broadband issues and things like that. Will that technology be there? Yes. Can I tell you when? It's not next year. I think you're beginning to see a lot more open systems and more collaboration, because right now you have so many unique systems and nothing is compatible. That's been the biggest problem, but you're beginning to see the walls break down.

I always look at VOD (video on demand) that goes right to the house, and DVD buy rates never change. I think what you have to do is look at the consumer today -- the younger consumer -- and say "where are they going," because that's going to be the future. Today when you look at who is purchasing movies, it's those 35 and older -- and they're not as savvy with technology as the younger audience is. The younger audience is the one that would be more comfortable with digital delivery.

The DVD player was the fastest selling electronics product ever. In 5 years, you had over 50% of the market. The reason why is because it was plug-and-play. You put a disc in and you pressed play. With HD DVD, the DVD Forum was looking at the future -- that's why you have an Ethernet and USB port mandatory, because they are thinking of the transition to the next generation.

But people collect movies like they did records, and share movies, which isn't possible in digital. And today, in order for the digital world to take off, it has to be very consumer friendly -- like plug and plug. As soon as you get complicated, you can't go after the mass market. Once it gets to being plug-and-play, you could see a shift. People once thought rental would always be the king, and now you have sell-through.

Over the course of the upcoming years -- the next 5, 8, 10 years -- physical media is still going to be dominant. That's not to say you're not going to have digital, because it's going to come, but it won't reach the masses very quickly.

Nate Mook: Is this format war going to be decided by the Hollywood studios and the manufacturers, or can the consumers have a voice? Over 1 million HD DVD owners is not a small number, and those consumers clearly don't want the format to go anywhere.

Ken Graffeo: Where the consumer has a say is what they do and what they purchase. That's probably the biggest statement that could be made. Word of mouth is the most powerful way to communicate. If you walk into someone's house and watch a football game on their HDTV, you'll want one. Most people are very happy with their DVD, but when they see a 1080p movie, it blows them away.

1 million units starts word of mouth -- people get exposed, people see it. When you're dealing with 200,000, you're at the early adopters and that's not really going to spread. That's why HDTVs finally started taking off, because consumers walked into their neighbors' houses and said "Look at that flat thing on the wall, that's great." You saw in November and December, everyone was aggressive with pricing. You could see how consumers are willing to buy HD movies when you get to an affordable price.

We released American Gangster and put it on combo disc (with DVD format on one side and HD DVD format on the other), because if there was confusion about the future, you don't lose an investment because you have both an HD DVD and a DVD. Look at how many machines exist with DVD. We don't want to limit our customers; we want to be as consumer-friendly as possible. It's hard to communicate everything, but once you start getting into the mass world, word of mouth is also very important.

NM: Is there any possibility of coming together with Blu-ray to unify the standards at this point, perhaps with hybrid players?

KG: Well, I'm never going to say it never can be done. I think everyone would like to see things work out, and I don't think anyone has any ill intention in this. It was a year and a half ago when we tried to put things together and it was unfortunate when it fell apart before. I think anything is possible, and again it comes back to the consumer who has the final voice.

NM: A recent report showed Blu-ray with 90% of the DVD recorder market in Japan. Does HD DVD plan to invest in this market? It seems there is little demand for DVD recorders in the States.

KG: DVD recorders are very big in Japan. In fact, I think the majority of DVD hardware in Japan is DVD recorders. There has never been a market here in the US, even though DVD recorders have been available. HD DVD does have recorders in Japan, but not in the United States, where most people have digital video recorders instead.

NM: What's the next step for HD DVD?

KG: I think Toshiba has put a very aggressive program in place not only with price, but also with marketing. We have been talking to the consumer, letting them make choices. We also had our big new release yesterday announcing American Gangster. The film has all of the interactivity and Internet features, and we're continuing to release titles. When I say business as usual, it's business as usual in releasing. But Toshiba has really stepped up with their campaign to the consumer.

NM: Where do things stand on CH-DVD, the Chinese format that's based on HD DVD. It seems to me that is a huge market with 2 billion people, and it's compatible with HD DVD. If studios want to sell in CH-DVD in China, wouldn't it make sense to also sell HD DVDs in the Unites States?

KG: Well, I know that CH-DVD players are in production and their date is in time for the Beijing Olympics. They are forecasting sales of somewhere around 8 million HDTVs because the Olympics are broadcast in high-def and the CH-DVD players are going to be launched in conjunction with that.

When you look at the Chinese market form a studio distribution standpoint, because of a lot of the past piracy issues it's not a developed market like most of Europe and US for the studios selling movies. Everybody is working to try to move forward with that, but I think it's further down the road. The more important issue than high-def in China right now is how to distribute without a fear of piracy.

NM: Will all future Universal HD DVD releases be combination discs?

KG: All of our new releases that Universal has made since last September have been combo discs [with standard DVD on one side]. We have no plans to change that, and our retail partners are saying if you want to go to the mass market, you don't want to limit consumers into only being able to play it on one device.

NM: Thank you for taking the time to speak with us today, Ken. We, and our readers, appreciate it.

http://www.betanews.com/article/Interview_Universal_EVP_Ken_Graffeo_says_HD_DVD_is _here_to_stay/1200951636/1

[pimpinc333]

Hello HD DVD Fans. I just wanted to let you all know I have 5 HD DVD Movies left.

The Departed
V for Vendetta
Troy
Hot Fuzz
Smokin Aces

I'm looking to let these go ASAP. If interested please PM me.

I also have a Toshiba HD A2 player left. If interested PM me. Thanks!

[LinkinPrime]

Pretty interesting interview with Ken Graffeo.



http://www.betanews.com/article/Interview_Universal_EVP_Ken_Graffeo_says_HD_DVD_is _here_to_stay/1200951636/1

See that's the kind of support we needed when WB came out with their announcement. It makes me feel warm and fuzzy inside.

[guyver2077]

my method man shipped yesterday so it should arrive tomorrow..

and unless their is any crazy paramount rumors building up in april, cloverfield will be a must buy

[thrustbucket]

Cloverfield was awesome, but while watching it I was wondering exactly what we would gain from an HD version of it, because the PQ of it is (purposely) bad quality.

[staplerwow]

It's not looking good
http://digitalbits.com/articles/miscgfx2/hdmarketsdec07jan08.jpg
http://digitalbits.com/articles/miscgfx2/hdmarketsdjan081st2weeks.jpg
Top is HW LTD, bottom is weekly sales, doesn't include the 360 HD-DVD drive or PS3

[thrustbucket]

There is no doubt the CES stuff hurt HD DVD and caused a lot of hesitation and panic amongst it's supporters (a few on CAG even). But I'm hoping they can bounce back.

I'm trying to do my part, I just bought another A3 at bb last night.

[LinkinPrime]

Good deals at Amazon's Warehouse Deals:
Shrek The Thrid - $15.55 (missing shrinkwrap)
http://www.warehousedeals.com/Shrek-the-Third-HD-DVD/M/B000W4RV1A.htm

Knocked Up - $15.01 (missing shrinkwrap)
http://www.warehousedeals.com/Knocked-Up-Combo-HD-DVD-and/M/B000TZJBP6.htm

Bourne Identity - $12.56 (missing shrinkwrap)
http://www.warehousedeals.com/The-Bourne-Identity-HD-DVD/M/B000QEIOTO.htm

Smallville: Complete Sixth Season - $35.17 (missing shrinkwrap)
http://www.warehousedeals.com/Smallville-The-Complete-Sixth-Season-HD/M/B000R204DY.htm

For those of you unfarmiliar with Warehousedeals.com, its basically Amazon.com selling open or damaged product. They discount product that has inperfections such as dents, scratches, missing shrinkwrap...etc.

[CocheseUGA]

Ooh, I need Identity to round out my trilogy.

But...no money. :(

[mykevermin]

Cloverfield was awesome, but while watching it I was wondering exactly what we would gain from an HD version of it, because the PQ of it is (purposely) bad quality.

I think that's immaterial to whether it will sell well or not. Those who own HD players will most likely buy the HD version over the DVD. Whether it will sell players, though, is another question altogether.

[velvet396]

Hello HD DVD Fans. I just wanted to let you all know I have 5 HD DVD Movies left.

The Departed
V for Vendetta
Troy
Hot Fuzz
Smokin Aces

I'm looking to let these go ASAP. If interested please PM me.

I also have a Toshiba HD A2 player left. If interested PM me. Thanks!

sent a PM for Vendetta...

[KaneRobot]

Cloverfield won't sell any players. You could count on one hand the number of titles that are strong enough by themselves to convince someone to buy a player - on either format.


I'm probably going to pick up an A35 sometime in the next two months. I'd really like to wait for a 4th gen player announcement but I'm not even sure there will ever be one.

[guyver2077]

just received my meth man hd...

lmao @ it being xbox and ps2 compatible .. check out the back


http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b112/guyver2077/img002.jpg

[LinkinPrime]

just received my meth man hd...

lmao @ it being xbox and ps2 compatible .. check out the back


http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b112/guyver2077/img002.jpg
WTF!? Is it a HD DVD/DVD combo or were they too lazy to make a cover for the HD DVD version.

[guyver2077]

its not a combo.. they must of just ported over the dvd cover

[Sporadic]

lol that is just about the exact DVD cover.

[Sporadic]

There was an interesting post made by MovieMinded over at HighDefDigest. He said that Sweeney Todd is expected to be released in April as a 2-disc set.

If it's anything like Zodiac's package, it should be amazing.

Retailer have been told to expect it in April. It will most likely be a 2-disc set packed with special features, that of course can change but that's what we've been told to expect. It will be comparable to DreamWorks' Dreamgirls release from last year but even bigger.

[LinkinPrime]

Warner Bros. extends HD DVD support by 3 more weeks:
Burbank (CA) - Warner Home Video announced this week that it will continue to release titles on HD DVD for three weeks longer than it originally anticipated.

Earlier this month, Warner said that it is going to stop supporting HD DVD in May. However, it has now decided to push that deadline back a few weeks to be able to release more of its upcoming titles on both formats.

Despite Warner's Blu-ray exclusivity announcement, over a dozen Warner titles are still slated for release on HD DVD over the next four months. The extension of HD DVD support confirms that Twister and Bonnie & Clyde will come out on both formats instead of being Blu-ray exclusives.

Some other notable Warner titles that will still be released on both formats include Justice League: The New Frontier, I Am Legend, and August Rush.

http://www.tgdaily.com/content/view/35741/98/

I'm sure it has to do with the 3 week delay window of new titles, but still good nontheless.

[rsigley]

WHV just shipped my HD DVD version of Invasion even though it got delayed 3 weeks

guess the warehouse didn't get the memo

also for some reason their website is only listing HD DVD versions of Michael Clayton/Valley of elah even though the blu rays were up couple days ago


great company :D

[LinkinPrime]

That's funny, still seems like they favor HD DVD...

I gotta place another order soon, I want to order the following:
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51ir%2BEIx2iL._AA240_.jpg
Appleseed: Ex Machina

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51BXzcXtSML._AA240_.jpg
Justice League: The New Frontier

I'm still hoping that they add Superman: Doomsday up there soon...it was announced a while back but there hasn't been any updates. Also, Gotham Knight would be awesome if it shows up on HD DVD.

[thrustbucket]

Appleseed Ex Machina is Warner?

There is a trailer for it on live where it talks all about how it's coming to HD DVD and Video Marketplace. No mention of BluRay.

[LinkinPrime]

Appleseed Ex Machina is Warner?

There is a trailer for it on live where it talks all about how it's coming to HD DVD and Video Marketplace. No mention of BluRay.

Yeah, its WB and the Blu-Ray will be relased at the same time...well I'm sure the HD DVD will be delayed 3 weeks:

Product Details

Actors: Kara Greenberg (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/search-handle-url/index=dvd&field-keywords=Kara%20Greenberg)
Directors: Shinji Aramaki (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/search-handle-url/index=dvd&field-keywords=Shinji%20Aramaki)
Format: Animated, Closed-captioned, Color, Widescreen
Language: English
Region: Region 1 (U.S. and Canada only. Read more about DVD formats. (http://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html?ie=UTF8&nodeId=3193231))
Aspect Ratio: 1.66:1
Number of discs: 1
Rating http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/detail/pg-13._V46921000_.gif
Studio: Warner Home Video
DVD Release Date: March 11, 2008
http://www.amazon.com/Appleseed-Machina-Combo-DVD-Standard/dp/B0010358EE/ref=pd_bbs_sr_5?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1201201790&sr=8-5

[rsigley]

i think my local best buy made their choice about HD

in their hi def section all they have is blu ray and upconverting DVD players

all the HD DVD players are way up on a shelf no one can reach in the aisle with the sound systems

when i asked for a a-35 they asked me why would you want that, get blu ray

:(

[thrustbucket]

i think my local best buy made their choice about HD

in their hi def section all they have is blu ray and upconverting DVD players

all the HD DVD players are way up on a shelf no one can reach in the aisle with the sound systems

when i asked for a a-35 they asked me why would you want that, get blu ray

:(

You need to seriously send an email to Amir about who you could notify of this. There are people who's jobs it is in the HD DVD group to track down and combat stuff like that.

[LinkinPrime]

You need to seriously send an email to Amir about who you could notify of this. There are people who's jobs it is in the HD DVD group to track down and combat stuff like that.

I believe Amir quit...I don't know why but I read it somewhere on HighDefDigest.com...though I agree, someone higher up should now.

[rsigley]

yea it was kind of ridiculous, they used to be right next to the blu ray players and upconverting dvd and they were just gone. last time i was back there about 2 weeks ago they had them there, so its a recent thing

there was about 20 a-30's stacked up on top of the shelf about 5 aisles over with the speakers and twice as many a-3's

also was a little confusing since they are having that HD DVD deal this week with 9 free and they're basically hidden