Quantum of Solace Is Top-selling BD of the Year
The latest installment of the James Bond series, 'Quantum of Solace', is the top-selling title on Blu-ray for this year through June 7, followed by 'The Dark Knight', according to research published today by Home Media Magazine. In turn, the caped crusader is handily the winner in the all-time sales category.
Here is the list of the top 10 sellers of the year so far:
1. Quantum of Solace
2. The Dark Knight
3. Twilight
4. Eagle Eye
5. Taken
6. Iron Man
7. Pineapple Express
8. Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa
9. Pinocchio: Platinum Edition
10. Bolt
As you can see, despite being a 2008 release, 'The Dark Knight' has been selling very strongly through 2009, even more than 'Twilight'.
It is also encouraging to see a comedy and three animation films in the year's top 10.
Lord of the Rings BD Trilogy for November
New Line Home Home Entertainment, in conjunction with Warner Home Video, has finally revealed the release date and first details for the Blu-ray edition of 'The Lord of the Rings: The Motion Picture Trilogy'. This title will come out on November 3. It will contain the original theatrical versions, and also digital copies for all three films.
Other bonus features are still pending confirmation so stay tuned.
Gladiator, Braveheart, Gump Get Blu-ray Dates and Details
After weeks of intense speculation, Paramount Home Entertainment has finally disclosed the Blu-ray release dates and edition details for three of its most-awaited catalog releases, all Best Picture Oscar winners: 'Gladiator' and 'Braveheart' will both street on September 1, whereas 'Forrest Gump' will hit store shelves on November 3.
These will be the first three titles in Paramount's new "Sapphire Series". The Sapphire Series will capitalize on the pristine picture and sound of the Blu-ray format to present each cinematic gem in the highest quality for the first time in two-disc, high definition sets.
Gladiator Blu-ray Details
The Blu-ray presentation will include both the original theatrical version of the film as well as the extended version in 1080p High Definition with English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio, French 5.1 Dolby Digital and Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital, as well as English, English SDH, French, Spanish and Korean subtitles.
The two-disc set also will feature over four hours of bonus material including, but not limited to, the following:
* Audio Commentary: Two separate commentaries accompany the original theatrical version and extended version of the film.
* The Scrolls of Knowledge: The original trivia track has been newly enhanced with focus points allowing viewers to access a series of new behind-the-scenes featurettes exploring key scenes and how they relate to the historical accuracy depicted in the film. The extended version of the film also includes a deleted scene marker.
* Visions From Elysium: Topic Marker: Viewers can tag moments of interest throughout either version of the film, allowing them to create "shopping lists" of topics to learn more about. Thanks to the Blu-ray player's memory, the topics will automatically be loaded when Disc 2 is inserted, giving viewers immediate access to featurettes and galleries of interest.
* Strength and Honor: Creating The World of Gladiator: The definitive documentary on the origin, production and impact of the Oscar(R)-winning classic. The documentary includes an all-new Enhanced Viewing Mode allowing viewers access to additional interviews and behind-the-scenes material.
* The Making of Gladiator: HBO First Look special.
* Gladiator Games: The Roman Bloodsport: Learning Channel special.
* Hans Zimmer: Scoring Gladiator: An exploration of the rousing soundtrack.
* My Gladiator Journal: Personal diary of the young actor who played Lucius.
* Image & Design: Featurettes and galleries covering the production design, storyboards, costumes and more.
* Abandoned Sequences & Deleted Scenes
* VFX Explorations: Germania & Rome: Shot deconstruction with the visual effects artists.
Braveheart Blu-ray Details
The film will be presented in 1080p High Definition with English 5.1 Dolby TrueHD, French 5.1 Dolby Digital and Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital and English, English SDH, French and Spanish subtitles.
Among the more than two hours of new special features to be included on Braveheart are:
* Interactive Timelines: Three distinct timelines featuring a combination of video, images, text and audio that can be accessed linearly or randomly.
o Production: A comprehensive chronology of the motion picture from conception through theatrical release, from a behind-the-scenes point of view.
o Historical: Chronological modules feature Scotland's greatest patriot, along with historical places, figures and events surrounding his life and struggle.
o Fiction: A comprehensive timeline identifying the chronological events of the film.
* Braveheart: A Look Back: Features new interviews with members of the cast and crew reminiscing about their experiences making the film and its enduring impact on cinema.
* Smithfield: Medieval Killing Fields: Relates the remarkable history of Smithfield, which for centuries was regularly filled with the roars of crowds, regal fanfares and rowdy games. Smithfield is also known as the site of William Wallace's execution, along with other terrifying spectacles when heretics, rebels and criminals were put to death.
* Battlefields of the Scottish Rebellion: Two major Scottish battlefields, Falkirk and Bannockburn, will be presented as 3D models that can be explored for further investigation into the military strategies and timetables employed in each. Topography, weapons, troop movements, and leadership data can also be accessed. An alternate playing mode will allow the story of each battle to unfold in an "automated" fashion, much like the interactive dioramas displayed at historical site museums around the world.
Forrest Gump
Celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2009, 'Forrest Gump' will feature new material including a brand new roundtable discussion. More details will follow later in the year.
Ok, ok, I'm pushing it I know. lol. But yes, it's a great deal.
