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'Pitch Perfect 3' Announced and Detailed for Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray[teaser]The musical comedy starring Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson, and Elizabeth Banks heads to both formats in March. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Universal Studios says 'Pitch Perfect 3' will be available on Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray on March 20. Now graduated from college, realizing it takes more than a cappella to get by, all the Bellas return in the final chapter in the beloved series. After the highs of winning the World Championships, the Bellas find themselves split apart and discovering there are no job prospects for making music with only your mouth. But when they get the chance to reunite for a European USO tour, this group of awesome nerds will come together to make some music, and some questionable decisions, one last time. Each release will feature a DTS:X soundtrack and supplements include: -Competition Crescendo – In this featurette we break down the riff-off scene, starting in pre-production in the recording studio and moving into production. We'll also discuss the Bellas' competition: EverMoist, Saddle Up, DJ Young Sparrow and DJ Dragon Nutz.-Don't Mess with Rebel – Rebel Wilson trained with stunts coordinator, Jennifer Badger, to prefect her many stunts that we see throughout the film. In this featurette, we'll catch a glimpse of Rebel's training and discuss the most bad-ass stunt of all – Rebel taking down four grown men in order to save the Bellas.-The Headliner: DJ Khaled – We check in with cast and filmmakers to hear their reactions on the music producer/personality being brought on, how he fits into the story and the love he has for the Bellas.-The Final Note: John and Gail – Everyone's favorite Talk-a-pella podcasters are back, combining their resources to produce an exclusive d'aca'mentary following the beloved classic Bellas. We discuss their far-fetched endeavor with the cast and filmmakers to better understand our favorite aca-duo.-Just Because He's a Bad Guy – The cast and filmmakers were overjoyed to learn that legendary actor, John Lithgow was joining the Pitch Perfect family, and he did not disappoint! In this piece, we'll witness how Rebel and John are two peas in a pod, making their on-screen chemistry as father and daughter truly sincere.-"Freedom! '90 x Cups" Official Music Video Blu-ray exclusives include: -Deleted Scene-Gag Reel-New Musical Performances-A Cappella Action – In this piece, we break down the scene starting with Fergus betraying Fat Amy and kidnapping the Bellas, through the performance and wrapping up with Rebel Wilson as she performs the stunt of falling through the ceiling.-The Women of Pitch Perfect 3 – With Elizabeth Banks, Trish Sie, and an all-female cast, the Pitch Perfect franchise is breaking down stereotypes and industry norms left and right. In this piece, we learn why that's so important throughout the development and production of Pitch Perfect 3.-The Final Performance – In this heart-warming piece, fans will witness the genuine love and sisterhood between the Bellas both on and off camera as they get a behind-the-scenes look at the emotional wrap of the film and production.-Hollywood of the South – Hollywood may be the "Entertainment Capital of the World" but Atlanta is a close second - morphing into a metropolis for film productions and the cast and crews couldn't be happier. We hear from them about the hospitality, versatility and southern welcome they experienced during their stay.-Extended Musical Performances You can find the latest specs for Pitch Perfect 3 linked from our Blu-ray and 4K Release Schedules, where it is indexed under March 20. Order the Blu-ray Order the 4K Blu-rayPosted Fri Jan 26, 2018 at 10:38 AM PST by: -
'Suicide Squad: Hell to Pay' Announced for Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray[teaser]The Suicide Squad returns in the next upcoming DC animated movie arriving to both formats in April. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Warner Brothers says 'Suicide Squad: Hell to Pay' will be available on Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray on April 10. Suicide Squad: Hell to Pay finds Amanda Waller's top secret "Task Force X" – Deadshot, Bronze Tiger, Killer Frost, Captain Boomerang, Harley Quinn and Copperhead – on a mission to retrieve a mystical object so powerful that they're willing to risk their own lives to steal it. But the Suicide Squad isn't the only group of villains seeking to possess the object. The race is on for the golden prize … and, to stay alive, second place isn't an option. The all-star cast is led by Christian Slater (Mr. Robot, Archer, True Romance) in his DC Universe Movies debut as the voice of Deadshot, who heads "Task Force X" alongside Billy Brown (How To Get Away With Murder) as Bronze Tiger, Liam McIntyre (Spartacus: War of the Damned, The Flash) as Captain Boomerang, Kristin Bauer van Straten (True Blood, Once Upon a Time) as Killer Frost, Gideon Emery (Teen Wolf) as Copperhead, Tara Strong (Batman: The Killing Joke) as Harley Quinn and their "boss," Vanessa Williams (Ugly Betty, Desperate Housewives) as Amanda Waller. Villainous forces in the film include C. Thomas Howell (Outcast, The Outsiders, Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox) as Zoom, Dania Ramirez (Devious Maids, Heroes, Once Upon a Time) as Scandal Savage, James Urbaniak (Difficult People, The Venture Bros.) as Professor Pyg, Julie Nathanson (The Zeta Project, Beverly Hills 90210) as Silver Banshee and Jewelee, and Jim Pirri (Injustice 2) as Vandal Savage & Vertigo. Specs have yet to be revealed, but supplements include: A Sneak Peek at the next DC Universe Movie, The Death of Superman: "The Death of Superman" – The Death of Superman is widely considered one of the most popular stories in the Superman canon and the DCU. This sneak peek at the exciting new film discusses the story and its place in pop culture. Outback Rogue: Captain Boomerang (Featurette) – Audiences get a deeper look at this unconventional, yet entertaining villain from Down Under and how he's evolved from The Flash universe to the Suicide Squad. Nice Shot, Floyd! The Greatest Marksman in the DCU (Featurette) – Floyd Lawton, AKA Deadshot, is one of the most popular antiheroes in the DC pantheon. An excellent marksman and assassin, he often brags that he never misses his shot. Take a closer look at this fascinating character. The Power of Plot Devices, MacGuffins and Red Herrings (Featurette) – An insightful examination of the power of a good plot device and the important influence it has over story. Suicide Squad: Hell To Pay Commentary – The creative filmmaking team of screenwriter/co-producer Alan Burnett and executive producer James Tucker share their thoughts and stories on the characters, themes and development of Suicide Squad: Hell To Pay. You can find the latest specs for Suicide Squad: Hell to Pay linked from our Blu-ray and 4K Release Schedules, where it is indexed under April 10. Order the Blu-ray Order the 4K Blu-rayPosted Fri Jan 19, 2018 at 10:34 AM PST by: -
'Justice League' Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Detailed (UPDATED)[teaser]Zack Snyder's action-packed 2017 superhero slugfest is up for pre-orders at Amazon. [/teaser] As previously reported, Warner Brothers is preparing 'Justice League' for Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray, and now the date has been set for March 13. A Blu-ray 3D will also be available on the same date. In the wake of Superman's death, Batman (Ben Affleck) and Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot) recruit superpowered individuals to defend humanity from an otherworldly threat called Steppenwolf (Ciarán Hinds). Together with their new allies -- Cyborg (Ray Fisher), Aquaman (Jason Momoa), and the Flash (Ezra Miller) -- they form the superhero team known as the Justice League. The 4K Blu-ray disc of Justice League will feature Dolby Vision HDR that dramatically expands the color palette and contrast range, and uses dynamic metadata to automatically optimize the picture for every screen, frame by frame. The 4K Blu-ray and Blu-ray 3D discs of Justice League will feature a Dolby Atmos soundtrack remixed specifically for the home theater environment to place and move audio anywhere in the room, including overhead. To experience Dolby Atmos at home, a Dolby Atmos enabled AV receiver and additional speakers are required, or a Dolby Atmos enabled sound bar. Dolby Atmos soundtracks are also fully backward compatible with traditional audio configurations and legacy home entertainment equipment. Supplements include: Road to Justice - Journey alongside DC comic creators as they explore over fifty years of the Justice League, from comic books to animated adventures to their cinematic debut. Heart of Justice - Discover the heart, soul and mind of the Justice League, as the cast and filmmakers share their admiration for DC's iconic Trinity: Superman, Wonder Woman and Batman. Technology of the Justice League - From Batman's arsenal to Cyborg's alien tech, interface with the Justice League database to learn their most advanced secrets. Justice League: The New Heroes - Join Ray Fisher on a personal tour to meet the newest members of the Justice League: Aquaman, the Flash and Cyborg. The Return of Superman - Bonus scenes not seen in theaters Steppenwolf the Conqueror - Join actor Ciarán Hinds and the filmmakers as they reveal the story behind mankind's ancient enemy and the Justice League's greatest challenge. Scene Studies: Revisiting the Amazons - Take a closer look at the filmmaking process behind Justice League's most visually exciting and action-packed sequences Scene Studies: Wonder Woman's Rescue -Take a closer look at the filmmaking process behind Justice League's most visually exciting and action-packed sequences Scene Studies: Heroes Park - Take a closer look at the filmmaking process behind Justice League's most visually exciting and action-packed sequences Scene Studies: The Tunnel Battle - Take a closer look at the filmmaking process behind Justice League's most visually exciting and action-packed sequences Suit Up: The Look of the League - Costume Designer Michael Wilkinson explores the innovation and artistry that goes into creating the costumes of DC's iconic heroes. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray is $35.95, the Blu-ray 3D is $44.95, and the 4K UHD is $44.99. You can find the latest specs for Justice League linked from our Blu-ray and 4K Release Schedules, where it is indexed under March 13. Order the Blu-ray Order the 3D Blu-ray Order the 4K Blu-rayPosted Fri Jan 19, 2018 at 08:29 AM PST by: -
UPDATED: 'Blade Runner 2049' 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Will Not Feature Dolby Vision on UK Release[teaser]All versions of the disc will include HDR10 only.[/teaser] UPDATE 1/11/2018: Sony has confirmed with us that the UK disc of Blade Runner 2049 WILL NOT feature Dolby Vision support. The DV logo on the currently posted box art is just an error. Both the US Warner Bros. disc and the UK Sony disc will only include HDR10. Previous Report: Warner Bros. is set to release Blade Runner 2049 on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray in the US on January 16. With that said, Sony is handling the distribution for the film in the UK, and it now looks like the two discs might differ when it comes to HDR support. According to [incorrect box art] logos featured on the box art posted on the Amazon UK listing of the film, Sony's release will include Dolby Vision HDR (along with HDR10 for those without DV gear). Meanwhile, the currently posted box art for the Warner Bros. US release does not include the Dolby Vision logo. Likewise, the US press release for the 4K Blu-ray from Warner Bros. makes no mention of Dolby Vision either, implying that it will offer HDR10 only. Check out close-up shots of the logos on the back cover art below for reference: Now, box art posted on retailers isn't always 100% accurate, so this isn't a totally surefire confirmation. [For example, in this case, there is a Dolby Vision logo on the Sony UK box art when what isn't a feature.] And it should also be noted that Warner Bros. did end up including Dolby Vision on its US release of Westworld despite the logo not appearing on the box art. But, from what we have to go on now, it's looking like Dolby Vision will be included on the UK Ultra HD disc from Sony and not the US Ultra HD disc from Warner Bros. Thankfully, the Ultra HD Blu-ray format is region-free, so fans who want Dolby Vision can import the Sony disc from Europe. With that said, they are going to have to wait just a bit longer as Amazon UK currently lists a February 5 release date. Both releases will feature 2160p video and a Dolby Atmos soundtrack. Supplements will include Blade Runner 101 plus Blu-ray exclusive Designing The World of Blade Runner 2049; To Be Human: Casting Blade Runner 2049; and Prologues. Order the UK 4K Blu-ray Order the US 4K Blu-ray You can find the latest specs for the US release of Blade Runner 2049 linked from our Blu-ray and 4K Release Schedules, where it is indexed under January 16.Posted Thu Jan 11, 2018 at 02:35 PM PST by: -
'Thor: Ragnarok' Announced and Detailed for Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray[teaser]The action-packed Marvel film starring Chris Hemsworth, Cate Blanchett, and Mark Ruffalo comes to home video in March. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Disney and Marvel Studios says 'Thor: Ragnarok' will be available on Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray on March 6. In Marvel Studios' Thor: Ragnarok, Thor (Chris Hemsworth) is imprisoned on the other side of the universe without his mighty hammer and finds himself in a race against time to get back to Asgard to stop Ragnarok – the destruction of his home world and the end of Asgardian civilization – at the hands of an all-powerful new threat, the ruthless Hela (Cate Blanchett). But first he must survive a deadly gladiatorial contest that pits him against his former ally and fellow Avenger – the Incredible Hulk (Mark Ruffalo) – and grapple with his silver-tongued adopted brother Loki (Tom Hiddleston), the fierce warrior Valkyrie (Tessa Thompson) and the eccentric Grandmaster (Jeff Goldblum). The Ultimate Cinematic Universe Edition includes the film in 4K with stunning High Dynamic Range (HDR) and a Dolby Atmos soundtrack. The extensive special features include: Director's Introduction Deleted/Extended Scenes – Deleted Scenes: The Sorcerer Supreme, Skurge Finds Heimdall & Hulk Chases Thor Through Sakaar and Extended Scenes: Thor Meets the Grandmaster, Stupid Avenger vs. Tiny Avenger & Grandmaster and Topaz Gag Reel – Watch a collection of goofs, gaffes and pratfalls starring the cast Exclusive Short/Team Darryl – Fresh off being unseated as the ruler of Sakaar, the Grandmaster makes his way to Earth to start a new life. It's been over a year since Thor left Australia and Darryl has been struggling to pay his rent. Now Darryl needs a new roommate to help make the monthly payments. Unfortunately for Darryl, the Grandmaster was the only one who answered Darryl's "Roommate Needed" ad and with no viable options, the Grandmaster moves in. Marvel Studios: The First Ten Years – The Evolution of Heroes – Marvel's universe is vast and transcends both time and space. We'll examine the Cinematic Universe as a whole and revisit each of our heroes' current location and their place in the current MCU timeline, as it all leads up to the one culminating event: "Avengers: Infinity War." Getting in Touch with Your Inner Thor – "Thor: Ragnarok" director Taika Waititi has brought his unique sensibility and sense of humor to the film in a great many ways but it is the evolution of Thor's own sense of humor, which stands out the most in the new film. This piece explores the impact Chris Hemsworth has made on the development of his widely-loved character and celebrates the mighty cast and crew who reveal the fun and hard work that went into assembling Thor's eccentric counterparts. Unstoppable Women: Hela & Valkyrie – This piece explores the strong female characters in "Thor: Ragnarok," their importance in the MCU, their incredible casting and their epic comic origins. Finding Korg – A tongue-in-cheek interview with Taika on casting Korg. He describes the difficult search for just the right evolution of the character design, and the nuances of this instantly classic character in the MCU. This conversation will also delve into all the extraordinary visual effects that brought Korg, Sakaar and the worlds of "Thor: Ragnarok" to life. Sakaar: On the Edge of the Known and Unknown – Sakaar is the collection point for all lost and unloved things. This documentary will answer all known and unknown questions while also exploring the hard work and creativity that went into creating the look and feel of Sakaar. From design inspired by Jack Kirby's classic artwork to the dedication of the visual development team to the awe-inspiring physical and digital production, you will see this distant world come alive. Journey into Mystery – A deep dive story piece with the writers, director and producer Kevin Feige about the inspirations for "Thor: Ragnarok" within the comics. Most notably, the contest of champions limited series where the Grandmaster pitted our favorite heroes against one another as he does in the film. This piece also further explores Thor's comic book origins and classic arcs through interviews with some of the most important comic creators, such as Walt Simonson and Jack Kirby. 8bit Scenes – Final Bridge Battle + Sakaar Spaceship Battle. Dive into these climactic sequences presented in retro video-game format. Directors Commentary You can find the latest specs for Thor: Ragnarok linked from our Blu-ray and 4K Release Schedules, where it is indexed under March 6. Order the 4K Blu-ray Order the Blu-rayPosted Thu Jan 11, 2018 at 09:36 AM PST by: -
'Murder on the Orient Express' Headed for Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray[teaser]Kenneth Branagh's Agatha Christie mystery rolls onto both formats in February. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, 20th Century Fox says 'Murder on the Orient Express' will be available on Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray on February 27. Kenneth Branagh directs and leads an all-star cast, including Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer, Penélope Cruz, Judi Dench and Leslie Odom, Jr., in this stylish, suspenseful and thrilling mystery based on the best selling novel by Agatha Christie. Everyone's a suspect when a murder is committed on a lavish train ride, and a brilliant detective must race against time to solve the puzzle before the killer strikes again. Murder on the Orient Express is a timeless classic that "will keep audiences guessing" (Peter Debruge, Variety). Each release will feature a lossless 7.1 soundtrack (Dolby Atmos on the 4K UHD) and supplements include: Agatha Christie: An Intimate Portrait; Let's Talk About Hercule Poirot; Unusual Suspects (Part One, Two and Three); The Art of Murder; All Aboard: Filming Murder on the Orient Express; Music of Murder; Deleted Scenes (with and without Commentary by Kenneth Branagh and Michael Green); Director commentary by Kenneth Branagh and Michael Green; Theatrical Trailers; and a Gallery. You can find the latest specs for Murder on the Orient Express linked from our Blu-ray and 4K Release Schedules, where it is indexed under February 27. Order the Blu-ray Order the 4K Blu-rayPosted Wed Jan 10, 2018 at 09:41 AM PST by: -
'Wonder' Headed for Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray[teaser]The drama based on the #1 New York Times bestseller by R.J. Palacio arrives on both formats in February. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Lionsgate says 'Wonder' will be available on Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray on February 13. Wonder follows the inspiring story of the Pullman family, whose youngest child, Auggie, is a boy born with facial differences. When Auggie enters mainstream elementary school for the first time, his extraordinary journey unites his family, his school, and his community, and proves that you can’t blend in when you were born to stand out. Each release will feature a Dolby TrueHD 7.1 soundtrack and supplements include: Audio Commentary with Stephen Chbosky and R.J. Palacio; “Brand New Eyes” Music Video; Wonder Soundtrack: Behind-the-Scenes Featurette; and two Blu-ray exclusives - “Summer of Fun” 5-Part Documentary and “A Child’s Sense of Wonder” Featurette. You can find the latest specs for Wonder linked from our Blu-ray and 4K Release Schedules, where it is indexed under February 13. Order the Blu-ray Order the 4K Blu-rayPosted Mon Jan 8, 2018 at 11:34 AM PST by: -
Top 10 4K Ultra HD Blu-rays of 2017'Tis the season for taking part in that long, time-honored tradition of sharing an unsolicited "Best of List." And while these lists were relatively easy to create back in the HD Blu-ray days, 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray is an entirely new beast. For starters, 4K resolution is important and all, but when we start adding source material and sitting distance into that equation, the resolution conversation is pretty moot and trivial. Ultimately, the real benefit of the Ultra HD format is the improved high dynamic range (HDR), which is the difference between how bright and dark an image can display, and the expanded array of colors (WCG – wider color gamut) available in that same image. In other words, while not always "sharper", 4K Ultra HD Blu-rays offer the promise of improved contrast and more vivid colors. As such, [Teaser]here are our picks for the best 2017 4K Blu-rays that make the most of the HDR/WCG format and should be among your go-to demo discs.[/Teaser] Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them Expanding on the mythology of the wizarding universe, Fantastic Beasts introduces a new brand of hero in the reluctantly timid and neurotically insecure Newt Scamander. And on Ultra HD, J.K. Rowling's whimsically fantastical world truly comes alive, oozing with rich, velvety midnight blacks and a magical array of sumptuous colors. Inside Newt's suitcase, we are treated to a starry-eyed picturesque vision straight from a dream, but the film's last third when Porpentina and our hero stand on a rooftop is the best demo-worthy moment. The brightly-lit sign standing behind them is the perfect example for demonstrating what HDR is actually all about, as the incandescent bulbs radiate with crisp, tight specular highlights without sacrificing the minute details within the most intensely brilliant areas. Planet Earth II Ten years after their award-winning nature documentary series, BBC returned with another awe-inspiring six-episode sequel, Planet Earth II. Produced intentionally for 4K Ultra HD using the latest camera technology, the doc delivers the most jaw-droppingly razor-sharp details ever seen on home video, taking audiences to some of the harshest environs on Earth. Pick any random scene in its 360-minute runtime and gasp at the distinct minuscule veins of leaves, the microscopic edges of insects' exoskeletons, the ultra-fine filaments in individual feathers, the rugged, jagged bumps in every reptile's scaly body and the rough textured fur coat of each animal with remarkable lifelike realism. From beginning to end, the 2160p video is an endlessly dazzling, hypnotizing feast for the eyes, washing the screen in a smorgasbord of vibrant colors. Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk Honestly, Ang Lee's war drama is arguably the weakest film on the list, thanks to a clichéd, derivative plot about a young soldier returning home to a hero's welcome. However, as Shannon Nutt pointed out, it will not likely be remembered outside its experimental filming style. Shot exclusively on the Sony CineAlta F65 digital camera system, Lee and cinematographer John Toll decided on taking advantage of the camera's full potential and filmed the whole thing in 4K resolution at 120 frames-per-second (fps). On Ultra HD disc, producers, once again, took full advantage of the format by releasing it at 60fps in 12-bit color depth and 4:2:2 chroma sampling. If one can overlook the strange digital video effect, the result is one of the most fascinating hyper-realistic 4K presentation available and the best disc for testing a display's true capabilities. Hacksaw Ridge After his career hit an embarrassing snag in the early part of the century, controversial filmmaker Mel Gibson makes a surprising comeback with this impressively stirring war drama. Based on the life of Army medic Desmond T. Doss, the plot follows a young pacifist struggling to remain true to his religious convictions while at the height of WWII. The poignantly powerful film is brought to life on Ultra HD thanks to a stunningly beautiful 4K presentation that reveals the tiniest piece of debris, fragment, and rubble with remarkable detail. But what earns this disc a spot on the list is the superbly brilliant contrast and dazzling specular highlights, which maintain exceptional clarity and visibility within the brightest, hottest areas of explosions. Needless to say, the chaotic scenes of battle are pure demo material. Sing Gathering inspiration from the current trend of reality TV talent shows, Illumination Entertainment takes to the stage with this anthropomorphic tale of discovering talent in the most unusually normal of places, the unconventionally ordinary and the most uncommonly mundane. Filling the screen with familiar stock characters living clichéd, formulaic lives, the animated musical offers little surprises but nonetheless makes for easy entertainment. The contest's glitz and glamor steal the 4K spotlight with a squeaky-clean, highly-detailed encode, exposing the minute and meticulous features of every scene. The screen is awash in a wide array of colors, from richly saturated primaries to sumptuous pastels that light up the lives of the characters. With crisp, radiant whites and silky, inky-rich blacks, the video makes this title worth the purchase. Despicable Me 2 (Dolby Vision) Although it doesn't quite capture the same level of heart-warming enthusiasm as its predecessor, directors Pierre Coffin and Chris Renaud still manage to deliver plenty of unexpected goody laughs and silly charm in this sequel. While introducing a new character into the mix, Gru's new adventure is about balancing parenthood and a career as a spy working for the good guys, but a major source of merriment comes from those yellow, pill-shaped Minions. Gru and the girls battle villains, boys and mutant minions in gorgeous, eye-catching Dolby Vision, showcasing a lavish display of pastels and resplendent primaries. Pick any random scene and the screen lights up with significantly brighter contrast, outstanding highlights that provide a realistic sparkle and luxurious blacks, making this a superb, reference-quality 4K presentation. Power Rangers (Dolby Vision) Arguably, the most surprising film on the list. A reboot of the martial arts superheroes based on the widely popular 90s television series, the plot brings together five unruly, misunderstood outcasts to discover their disruptive, defiant feelings of angst are actually a deep-rooted energy source for fighting a scene-chewing Elizabeth Banks. On Ultra HD Blu-ray, the mighty morphing power rangers battle to save Earth equipped with a striking, reference-quality Dolby Vision encode, and like the title above, this gorgeously vibrant 4K presentation radiates with a lush array of colors, especially when the kids don their costumes. Contrast is crisper and tighter with better detailing within the brightest areas while silky blacks provide a three-dimensional, cinematic appeal, delivering several looking-out-the-window sequences that make this a must-own. Christopher Nolan Collection Christopher Nolan rapidly grew to prominence after a pair of impressive psychological thrillers, making one box-office hit after another. Now, fans can own a collection of his greatest hits on Ultra HD in this convenient 21-disc box set. Granted, Inception and Batman Begins are the weakest in the bunch, but they are still a nice improvement over their Blu-ray counterparts. The other five discs, on the other hand, offer beautiful 4K presentations with The Dark Knight and The Dark Knight Rises being the stand out discs to own, delivering exceptional black levels and specular highlights that make certain sequences as if watching the action erupt on actual film. Dunkirk and Interstellar are close behind with razor-sharp images, and The Prestige benefits nicely from the HDR and wider color gamut, making any or the whole set highly recommended. Blade Runner: The Final Cut What else could possibly be said about Ridley Scott's flawed but massively influential sci-fi work of art? With themes exploring what it means to be human and our innate fear of death, Scott plunges his audience into a dystopic vision of Los Angeles cluttered with haunting, somber visuals that are as lovely to gaze upon as they are melancholic. With all the other titles being recent releases that translate well to the 4k Ultra HD Blu-ray, it's nice to see a 35-year-old film benefit from high-dynamic range and a wider color gamut. Amazingly, Blade Runner is a stunner to behold, serving as the perfect demo disc of what can be accomplished when the still relatively new format is utilized with care. With improved colors, brightly crisp highlights and more dynamic contrast, no 4K library is complete without this cult neo-noir sci-fi classic. E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial This timeless tale of friendship almost immediately grew to become the hallmark film of the 1980s, a pop-culture phenomenon that defined the decade. Celebrating its 35th Anniversary this past year, Steven Spielberg's masterpiece remains the heartwarming tearjerker families watch together, ranking as one of the greatest films ever made. Now available on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray, the classic sci-fi family drama has gained a new lease on life, sure to expand its shelf life for another thirty-five years. And like the other sci-fi classic above, the beauty of seeing E.T. in 4K is not only the marked improvement in definition and resolution but also enjoying the brighter true-to-life whites, the exceptional specular highlights, and the richer black levels. Proving once again what can be done when HDR is applied with care to older films, this UHD BLu-ray is another must-own. Honorable Mentions Allied Atomic Blonde The Dark Tower Despicable Me 3 (Dolby Vision) The Fate of the Furious Ghost in the Shell Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 La La Land Trolls Spider-Man: HomecomingPosted Fri Jan 5, 2018 at 12:04 PM PST by: -
'Daddy's Home 2' Announced and Detailed for Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray[teaser]The comedy sequel starring Mark Walberg and Will Ferrell heads to both formats in February. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Paramount says 'Daddy's Home 2' will be available on Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray on February 20. When it comes to raising their kids, Dusty (Mark Wahlberg) and Brad (Will Ferrell) finally have this co-parenting thing down. That is, until Dusty's macho dad (Mel Gibson) and Brad's sweet-natured father (John Lithgow) come to town, throwing the whole family into complete chaos. As old rivalries create new problems, Dusty and Brad's partnership is put to the ultimate test in this hilarious and heartwarming comedy that gives new meaning to the term 'blended family'. Each release will feature a Dolby Atmos soundtrack and supplements include: Making a SequelLook Who's BackCo-Dads: Will & MarkThe New Dads in Town: Mel & JohnCaptain SullyDeleted/Extended/Alternate ScenesGag Reel You can find the latest specs for Daddy's Home 2 linked from our Blu-ray and 4K Release Schedules, where it is indexed under February 20. Order the Blu-ray Order the 4K Blu-rayPosted Fri Jan 5, 2018 at 07:02 AM PST by: -
Amazon Extends 3 for $50 Deal on Select 4K Ultra HD Blu-rays[teaser]The promotion currently includes a selection of 50 titles.[/teaser] Amazon has extended its limited time promotion on select 4K Ultra HD Blu-rays. Though the initial deal was set to last until November 30, 2017, the new deal will be live until April 30, 2018. As part of the promotion, customers can purchase any three featured 4K titles for a total of $50, which equates to a price of about $16.66 each. The selection currently includes about 50 eligible titles with current individual price tags as high as $32. With that said, some of the featured discs are already listed for individual prices below $16.66, so customers might have to mix and match some items with higher priced titles to make the most out of the deal. Some popular Ultra HD Blu-ray discs eligible for the promotion include titles like: Order the 4K Blu-ray Order the 4K Blu-ray Order the 4K Blu-ray Order the 4K Blu-ray Order the 4K Blu-ray And be sure to click here for a full list of featured movies. The 3 for $50 Ultra HD Blu-ray disc deal will only be active until April 30 while supplies last. Make sure to stay tuned to High-Def Digest for more sales and special promotions!Posted Wed Jan 3, 2018 at 02:25 PM PST by:
