Posted Wed Nov 15, 2017 at 06:07 AM PST by Matthew Hartman
It seems we can't go more than a day or two without some tantalizing - and somewhat frustrating - news about a possible 4K UHD Blu-ray double dip on the horizon.
The latest in this neverending saga of physical media has to do with Kino Lorber Studio Classics and their proposed plans about possibly, maybe, doing a 4K UHD Blu-ray release of The Good, the bad, and the Ugly. Yeah, this news drops just a month or two after their already impressive 50th Anniversary Blu-ray release. But here's the kicker, on the Studio Classics' Facebook page, they're giving us the fans the deciding vote! All you have to do is select Happy for "Yes" or Hate for "No." They're not letting folks add to the comments thread so don't try - just let your emotional symbol flag fly.
Before you get too excited - or too angry - this 4K UHD release would only be available for the 179-minute extended cut from the MGM 4K master - not the recent cooler color grading that Kino did. Why this is, I have no idea. But thems the rules.
If this is a sticking thorn for you, bare in mind, participation in this may dictate future releases in 4K. Kino is on deck to release A Fistful of Dollars and For a Few Dollars More on Blu-ray from fresh new 4K restorations. How cool would it be to get those on a good and proper 4K UHD Blu-ray? Kino Lorber Studio Classics is pumping out some top tier titles these days and I for one am favorable to this release - especially if it means there's a chance at future 4K UHD titles. We know studios aren't too keen on their back catalog titles these days so if Studio Classics can step in to fill the 4K UHD void on that front, I think they should get all the encouragement they can get. But that's just my piece of the pie. If you want your voice heard - head over to Kino Lorber Studio Classics Facebook page and leave your Like or Angry.
We'll keep you posted as this develops.
The latest news on all things 4K Ultra HD, blu-ray and Gear.