Welcome to Fright...Night...FOR REAL!!! 

Writer/Director Tom (Not Spider-man) Holland's classic teenage horror-comedy spin on Hitchcock's Rear Window comes home to 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray for the first time from Sony in a terrifying new 3-Disc 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray + Blu-ray + Digital SteelBook set. Pre-orders aren't yet open for this release, but Tuesday, October 4th is the day and date to keep in mind! But this isn't just a simple new scan in 4K and a dump of old bonus features, Sony has pulled out the stops giving fans a genuinely exciting new release of this hilarious 80s horror gem. Let's take a look - 

Fright Night - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray SteelBook 

While this isn't the first SteelBook release out there to use the classic poster art, I do have to tip my hat to Sony and also Paramount of late for their recent SteelBook releases using the classic vintage poster art instead of some Pop Art monstrosity or custom art that kinda looks nice but really isn't all that amazing. I've looked at that cover art image ever since I was a little kid at our Mom & Pop rental shop in Dexter, MI and it always terrified me and excited me. By the time I was old enough to slip it past my Mom, I was all up for it and it's remained a favorite ever since. 

But - a slick SteelBook case isn't all this set has going for it - lets check out the exciting specs and new and archival bonus features we're picking up!

4K ULTRA HD DISC

• Feature scanned from the original camera negative and presented in 4K resolution with Dolby Vision
• All-new Dolby Atmos audio + 5.1 + original Dolby Stereo
   

BLU-RAY™ FEATURE DISC

• Feature presented in High Definition, sourced from the 4K master
• 5.1 + original Dolby Stereo
• Special Features:
  • NEW: Deleted Scene Storyboards – Tom Holland guides us through the film’s only deleted scene, using his personal pre-production storyboards
  • NEW: Holland/Beyda Spec Trailer with an Introduction by Tom Holland – the never-before-seen alternate trailer cut by Fright Night editor Kent Beyda with the guidance—and narration—of Tom Holland
  • Audio Commentary with Writer/Director Tom Holland, Actors Chris Sarandon & Jonathan Stark, Moderated by Filmmaker Tim Sullivan
  • Audio Commentary with Writer/Director Tom Holland, Actors William Ragsdale & Stephen Geoffreys, FX Artist Randall Cook, Moderated by Journalist Jeremy Smith and Filmmaker Tim Sullivan
  • You're So Cool, Brewster! The Story of Fright Night
  • What is Fright Night
  • Tom Holland: Writing Horror
  • Theatrical Trailers

BLU-RAY™ SPECIAL FEATURES DISC

• Special Features:
• NEW: Fright Night 35th Anniversary Script Read – an anniversary cast reunion and script reading featuring writer/director Tom Holland and special guests including Rosario Dawson, Jason Patric, and many more!
• NEW: The Queer Lens: Bryan Fuller in Conversation with Amanda Bearse – a candid discussion between Fright Night aficionado Bryan Fuller (Hannibal, Queer for Fear: The History of Queer Horror) and Fright Night star Amanda Bearse about the Gothic’s queer roots, the film’s queer subtext, and its metaphorical power
• NEW: A Novel Approach: The Splatterpunk Story of the Fright Night Novelization – Tom Holland, Fright Night novelization authors John Skipp and Craig Spector, and publisher Mark Alan Miller discuss how the progenitors of the splatterpunk genre came to work on the book, their writing process, and the novel’s enduring legacy
• NEW: SFX Storyboard Comparisons – a selection of original storyboards from key effects sequences, compared with their final filmed versions
• Roddy McDowall: From Apes to Bats
• Tom Holland and Amanda Bearse Talk Fright Night
• Round Table with Tom, Stephen and William
• Shock Till You Drop Presents Choice Cuts with Tom Holland and Ryan Turek
• First Ever Fright Night Reunion Panel - Fear Fest 2 (2008)
• Weekend of Hell Panel with Amanda and Stephen
• Vintage EPK with Behind-the-Scenes Raw Footage

So yeah - that's a lot! As we said at the top of the post, this isn't yet up for pre-order but as soon as it is we'll update our listings. If you pre-order through our links to Amazon, Best Buy or Zavvi, it goes a long way towards keeping our little show up and running - thank you!

Here's the full Press Release from Sony:

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THE FAN-FAVORITE 1980s HORROR CLASSIC DEBUTS ON 4K ULTRA HD™ WITH OVER 14 HOURS OF SPECIAL FEATURES

AVAILABLE AS A LIMITED EDITION STEELBOOK OCTOBER 4TH

SYNOPSIS Meet Jerry Dandrige. He's sweet, sexy, and he likes to sleep in late. You might think he's the perfect neighbor. But before inviting Jerry in for a nightcap, there's just one thing you should know. Jerry prefers his drinks warm, red, and straight from the jugular! It's FRIGHT NIGHT, a horrific howl starring Chris Sarandon as the seductive vampire and William Ragsdale as the frantic teenager struggling to keep Jerry's deadly fangs out of his neck. Only 17-year-old Charley Brewster (Ragsdale) knows Jerry's bloodcurdling secret. When Charley can't get anybody to believe him, he turns to TV horror host Peter Vincent (Roddy McDowall), who used to be the "Great Vampire Killer" of the movies. Can these mortals save Charley and his sweetheart Amy (Amanda Bearse) from the wrathful bloodsucker's toothy embrace? If you love being scared, FRIGHT NIGHT...will give you the nightmare of your life.   DISC DETAILS & BONUS MATERIALS   4K ULTRA HD DISC Feature scanned from the original camera negative and presented in 4K resolution with Dolby Vision All-new Dolby Atmos audio + 5.1 + original Dolby Stereo   BLU-RAY™ FEATURE DISC Feature presented in High Definition, sourced from the 4K master 5.1 + original Dolby Stereo Special Features: NEW: Deleted Scene Storyboards – Tom Holland guides us through the film’s only deleted scene, using his personal pre-production storyboards NEW: Holland/Beyda Spec Trailer with an Introduction by Tom Holland – the never-before-seen alternate trailer cut by Fright Night editor Kent Beyda with the guidance—and narration—of Tom Holland Audio Commentary with Writer/Director Tom Holland, Actors Chris Sarandon & Jonathan Stark, Moderated by Filmmaker Tim Sullivan Audio Commentary with Writer/Director Tom Holland, Actors William Ragsdale & Stephen Geoffreys, FX Artist Randall Cook, Moderated by Journalist Jeremy Smith and Filmmaker Tim Sullivan You're So Cool, Brewster! The Story of Fright Night What is Fright Night Tom Holland: Writing Horror Theatrical Trailers BLU-RAY™ SPECIAL FEATURES DISC Special Features: NEW: Fright Night 35th Anniversary Script Read – an anniversary cast reunion and script reading featuring writer/director Tom Holland and special guests including Rosario Dawson, Jason Patric, and many more! NEW: The Queer Lens: Bryan Fuller in Conversation with Amanda Bearse – a candid discussion between Fright Night aficionado Bryan Fuller (Hannibal, Queer for Fear: The History of Queer Horror) and Fright Night star Amanda Bearse about the Gothic’s queer roots, the film’s queer subtext, and its metaphorical power NEW: A Novel Approach: The Splatterpunk Story of the Fright Night Novelization – Tom Holland, Fright Night novelization authors John Skipp and Craig Spector, and publisher Mark Alan Miller discuss how the progenitors of the splatterpunk genre came to work on the book, their writing process, and the novel’s enduring legacy NEW: SFX Storyboard Comparisons – a selection of original storyboards from key effects sequences, compared with their final filmed versions Roddy McDowall: From Apes to Bats Tom Holland and Amanda Bearse Talk Fright Night Round Table with Tom, Stephen and William Shock Till You Drop Presents Choice Cuts with Tom Holland and Ryan Turek First Ever Fright Night Reunion Panel - Fear Fest 2 (2008) Weekend of Hell Panel with Amanda and Stephen Vintage EPK with Behind-the-Scenes Raw Footage CAST AND CREW Written and Directed By: Tom Holland Produced by: Herb Jaffe Cast: Chris Sarandon, William Ragsdale, Amanda Bearse, Stephen Geoffreys and Roddy McDowall     SPECS Run Time: Approx. 106 minutes Rating: R 4K UHD Feature Picture: 2160p Ultra High Definition, 2.39:1 4K UHD Feature Audio: English Dolby Atmos (Dolby TrueHD 7.1 Compatible) | English 5.1 DTS-HD MA | 2-Channel Surround DTS-HD MA

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Boldly finishing what they've already started - Paramount Pictures brings Star Trek: The Motion Picture The Directors Edition, Star Trek V and Star Trek VI, and a 15-disc 6-Film Collection to 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray

There's a lot of material to dig through so let's not waste any time! 

Star Trek The Motion Picture: The Director's Edition

 

After the success of their 4-Film collection, Paramount Home Entertainment completes the cinematic journey of the Original Crew on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray. Kicking things off is the fully restored Star Trek: The Motion Picture The Director's Edition - currently on Paramount+ and it's gorgeous! Then to finish off the series, Star Trek V: The Final Frontier and Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country make their 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray debuts. But wait there's more! Paramount is also pushing out an extra special Star Trek: The Motion Picture The Director's Edition The Complete Adventure offering both versions of the film with tons of extras and swag and then there's going to be a 15-disc 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray & Blu-ray collection of all six films as well as single-title editions of all six films for those not interested in box sets and swag. 

Star Trek The Motion Picture The Director's Edition The Complete Adventure
4K Ultra HD Blu-ray 

 

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Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray

Star Trek III: The Search for Spock - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray

Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray 

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Star Trek V: The Final Frontier - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray

 

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Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray 

 

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Star Trek: The Original Motion Picture 6-Movie Collection - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray

Here's the full press release with all the details and a breakdown of new bonus features:

Fully Restored Director’s Edition of Star Trek: The Motion Picture Arrives on 4K Ultra HD^™ and in Six-Movie Collection 

 

 Own the Definitive Vision of Director Robert Wise September 6, 2022
with Extensive New Bonus Content

 

 

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. – Set a course for the final frontier as the newly restored Star Trek: The Motion Picture—The Director’s Edition arrives September 6, 2022 on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray^™ with a bonus Blu-ray Disc^™ filled with new and legacy special features from Paramount Home Entertainment.  The film will also be released in a Limited-Edition Collector’s Set entitled “The Complete Adventure,” which includes the new Director’s Edition, the theatrical cut, and a special longer cut all on 4K Ultra HD along with special features on Blu-ray.  In addition, Star Trek: The Original Motion Picture Collection will arrive on September 6 with all six big-screen adventures featuring the original series crew on 4K Ultra HD.

 

Originally released in 1979, Star Trek: The Motion Picture became the fourth highest grossing movie of the year and earned three Academy Award® nominations for Best Visual Effects, Best Art Direction, and Best Music, Original Score.  The film successfully launched the Star Trek franchise beyond the original television series, despite having been rushed to theaters with incomplete special effects and forced editing choices. 

 

In 2001, director Robert Wise revisited the film to refine the edit and enhance the visual effects.  His updated vision was released on DVD in standard definition and embraced by fans but has never been available in higher definition until now.  Meticulously assembled and restored by producer David C. Fein with post-production supervisor Mike Matessino, both of whom originally collaborated with Wise, the film has been prepared for presentation in 4K Ultra HD with Dolby Vision™ high dynamic range (HDR) and a new powerful and immersive Dolby Atmos® soundtrack.^*  Fein and Matessino assembled a team of visual effects experts, led by returning visual effects supervisor Daren R. Dochterman, and utilized the extensive resources in the Paramount Archives to recreate the effects not just in HD, but in Ultra HD.  After more than six months of painstaking work, the updated movie looks and sounds better than ever while staying true to Wise’s original intention.

 

“The Director’s Edition on 4k Ultra HD delivers an experience that is far more intimate, engaging, and powerful thanks to the hard work of everyone involved,” said Fein.  “In building The Complete Adventure, we appreciated that many people who were first introduced to the film through the full frame release of the ‘Special Longer Version’ have missed it.  I’m excited that it will now be available for the first time in widescreen 4k Ultra HD. After so many years, it’s deeply rewarding to finally deliver Robert Wise’s definitive Director’s Edition for fans to enjoy at home.”

 

Following is an overview of the new product offerings:

 

Star Trek: The Motion Picture—The Director’s Edition 4K Ultra HD

The newly restored, definitive version of the first big-screen adventure is presented in 4K Ultra HD with Dolby Vision™ and HDR-10, as well as Dolby Atmos®.  Also includes access to a Digital copy of the film and the following new and legacy bonus content:

 

Ultra HD Disc bonus features

• Audio Commentary with David C. Fein, Mike Matessino, and Daren R. Dochterman—NEW!
• Audio Commentary by Robert Wise, Douglas Trumbull, John Dykstra, Jerry Goldsmith, and Stephen Collins​
• Text Commentary by Michael and Denise Okuda​

 

Blu-ray Disc^™ bonus features

• The Human Adventure—An all-new 8-part documentary detailing how the Director’s Edition came to life—NEW!
• Preparing the Future – How the remastering began
• A Wise Choice – The storied history of Robert Wise
• Refitting the Enterprise – How the Enterprise design shaped future federation starships
• Sounding Off – Exploring new dimensions of sound in Dolby Atmos
• V’ger - The conception and restoration of an iconic alien antagonist
• Return to Tomorrow – Reaching an already high bar with new CGI effects
• A Grand Theme – Behind the iconic, influential music score that shaped the franchise’s future
• The Grand Vision – The legacy and evolving reputation of this classic movie
• Deleted Scenes—NEW!
• Effects Tests—NEW!
• Costume Tests—NEW!
• Computer Display Graphics—NEW!
• Additional legacy bonus content

 

Star Trek: The Motion Picture—The Director’s Edition—The Complete Adventure 4K Ultra HD

This Limited-Edition Collector’s Set includes all of the above, plus an additional 4K Ultra HD disc containing:

• The Theatrical Cut
• The first-ever widescreen presentation of the Special Longer Version of Star Trek: The Motion Picture, originally created for broadcast television in 1983 

The set is presented in deluxe packaging along with exclusive collectibles, including reproductions of original promotional material, a booklet with behind-the-scenes images, stickers, and more.

 

Star Trek: The Original Motion Picture Collection

This comprehensive 15-disc collection includes the first six big-screen adventures featuring the original series crew in 4K Ultra HD with Dolby Vision and HDR-10. (Star Trek: The Motion Picture—The Director’s Edition also includes Dolby Atmos).  Both Star Trek V: The Final Frontier and Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country are making their 4K Ultra HD debuts.  The set also includes access to Digital copies of each of the six films, as well as hours of new and legacy bonus content.  Below is a breakdown of disc contents:

 

• Star Trek: The Motion Picture – The Director’s Edition – Ultra HD & Blu-ray
• Additional Blu-ray with bonus content
• Star Trek: The Motion Picture (Theatrical Cut) – Ultra HD & Blu-ray
• Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan – Ultra HD & Blu-ray
• Includes Director’s Cut
• Star Trek III: The Search for Spock – Ultra HD & Blu-ray
• Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home – Ultra HD & Blu-ray
• Star Trek V: The Final Frontier – Ultra HD & Blu-ray
• Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country – Ultra HD & Blu-ray
• Includes Director’s Cut 

 

All six of the feature films listed above will also be available individually on 4K Ultra HD or Blu-ray.

 

In addition, in celebration of its 40^th anniversary, Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan will return to select theaters on September 4^th, 5^th and 8^th.  Tickets for this special engagement presented by Fathom Events, Turner Classic Movies, and Paramount Pictures can be purchased at www.fathomevents.com or at participating theater box offices.

 

Star Trek: The Motion Picture—The Director’s Edition Synopsis

The U.S.S. Enterprise boldly debuted on the big screen with the cast of the original Star Trek series, including William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, DeForest Kelley, George Takei, Nichelle Nichols, Walter Koenig, and James Doohan.  Meticulously restored and remastered, with enhanced visual effects and state-of-the-art sound, this definitive vision of director Robert Wise has been optimized for a new generation of fans. When an unidentified alien intruder destroys three powerful Klingon cruisers, Admiral James T. Kirk (Shatner) returns to the helm of a newly transformed U.S.S. Enterprise to take command and confront an alien spacecraft of enormous power heading toward Earth.

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Celebrating its 30th Anniversary, Sony brings a new 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray SteelBook of Francis Ford Coppola's infamous adaptation of Stoker's iconic vampire on October 4th, 2022.

Bram Stoker's Dracula - 30th Anniversary 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray SteelBook

 

As has been the case with so many other recent Sony reissues, they are reauthoring the disc to now include Dolby Vision HDR. Previously you had to have the digital streaming copy on iTunes or Vudu to watch the film with Dolby Vision. To round out the A/V presentation, the film also comes with English Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD MA 5.1, and DTS-HD MA 2.0 audio tracks. If that wasn't enough Sony is also including a pair of new bonus features - the Annie Lenox "Love Song for a Vampire" music video and a new featurette "Blood Lines - Dracula, the Man, the Myth, the Movies"

This one isn't yet up for pre-order but as soon as it is, we'll update our listings. Here's the full PR for all the gory details:

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4K ULTRA HD DISC

• Feature presented in 4K resolution with Dolby Vision, including the original theatrical English subtitle font for texted instances
• Dolby Atmos audio + 5.1 + Dolby Stereo
• Special Features:
  • NEWLY ADDED: “Love Song For A Vampire” Music Video by Annie Lennox
  • NEWLY ADDED: Blood Lines – Dracula: The Man, The Myth, The Movies Featurette 

BLU-RAY DISC™

• Feature presented in High Definition, sourced from the 4K master
• Dolby Atmos audio
• Special Features:
  • Audio Commentary featuring Director Francis Ford Coppola
  • Audio Commentary featuring Director Francis Ford Coppola, Visual Effects Director Roman Coppola and Makeup Supervisor Greg Cannom
  • Introduction by Francis Ford Coppola
  • Reflections in Blood: Francis Ford Coppola and Bram Stoker's Dracula
  • Practical Magicians: A Collaboration Between Father and Son
  • The Blood Is the Life: The Making of Bram Stoker's Dracula
  • The Costumes Are the Sets: The Design of Eiko Ishioka
  • In-Camera: Naïve Visual Effects
  • Method and Madness: Visualizing Dracula
  • Deleted & Extended Scenes
  • Theatrical Teaser & Trailer

Directed By: Francis Ford Coppola
Screenplay By: James V. Hart
Produced by: Francis Ford Coppola, Fred Fuchs and Charles Mulvehill
Executive Producers: Michael Apted and Robert O’Connor
Cast: Gary Oldman, Winona Ryder, Anthony Hopkins, Keanu Reeves
 

Run Time: Approx. 127 minutes
Rating: R for sexuality and horror violence
4K UHD Feature Picture: 2160p Ultra High Definition, 1.85:1

4K UHD Feature Audio: English Dolby Atmos (Dolby TrueHD 7.1 Compatible) | English 5.1 DTS-HD MA | English Stereo Surround DTS-HD MA 

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 "Aren't you guys a little young to be technicians?" "Lasers are a young science. OK, there, fine, you made me say it, now we're both in trouble"

 Sony Pictures helps us relive the 80s comedy Real Genius, starring Val Kilmer (Heat, Top Gun), Gabe Jarrett, William Atherton, Patti D’Arbanville. Previously available on MOD blu-ray under the Choice Collection label, Sony takes it up a couple notches with a 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray + Blu-ray + Digital combo pack.

 This release also includes an all new Dolby Atmos track and a 5.1 track approved by director Martha Coolidge, aw well as the original 2.0 Stereo mix. HDR grading will be Dolby Vision HDR, HDR10 compatible.

 

 

 The order link is not available at press time, checking our release calendar for updates.

 Official Press Release:

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THE CULT 1980s FAN FAVORITE GETS AN UPGRADE,

WITH RARE SPECIAL FEATURES

AVAILABLE FOR THE FIRST TIME ON 4K ULTRA HD™

SEPTEMBER 13^TH

SYNOPSIS

When a group of crazy college geniuses put their heads together, almost anything can happen. Hold on for a freewheeling, uproarious look at just how much mischief a bunch of high-IQers can concoct. Chris (Val Kilmer) is the top brain who just wants to party, Mitch (Gabe Jarret) is the 16-year-old whiz kid, and Lazlo (Jonathan Gries), America's number one brain, literally lives in a world of his own ... Chris' closet. Supposedly hard at work on a lab project, they still find time to turn the dorm into an ice-skating rink, and throw a beach party in the auditorium complete with a lagoon and bikini-clad beauties. When the geniuses discover that their unscrupulous mentor Professor Hathaway (William Atherton) has had them working on a secret weapon for the military, they plot an elaborate revenge. Their plan culminates in an incredible scheme that outsmarts the military and convinces the professor that it doesn't pay to fool with a REAL GENIUS!

DISC DETAILS & BONUS MATERIALS

4K ULTRA HD DISC

• Feature scanned from the original camera negative and presented in 4K resolution with Dolby Vision, reviewed and approved by director Martha Coolidge

• All-new Dolby Atmos and 5.1 audio, reviewed and approved by director Martha Coolidge + Original Dolby Stereo

BLU-RAY DISC™

• Feature presented in High Definition, sourced from the 4K master

• 5.1 + Dolby Stereo audio

• Special Features:

  • NEW: “Balloon Chair” Deleted Scene + Raw Takes Montage

  • NEW: TV Version of the film

  • Feature Commentary with Director Martha Coolidge

CAST AND CREW

Directed By: Martha Coolidge

Story By: Neal Israel & Pat Proft

Screenplay By: Neal Israel & Pat Proft and Peter Torokvei

Produced by: Brian Grazer

Executive Producer: Robert Daley

Cast: Val Kilmer, Gabe Jarrett, William Atherton, Patti D’Arbanville

SPECS

Run Time: Approx. 105 minutes

Rating: PG

4K UHD Feature Picture: 2160p Ultra High Definition, 2.39:1

4K UHD Feature Audio: English Dolby Atmos (Dolby TrueHD 7.1 Compatible) | English 5.1 DTS-HD MA | English Stereo Surround DTS-HD MA

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Twitter: @SonyPicsHomeEnt

Instagram: @SonyPicturesHomeEntertainment

Facebook: facebook.com/sonypictureshomeentertainment

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/sonypictureshomeent

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The critically acclaimed mind-bending Marvel movie hits all major digital platforms on June 22 and on 4K UHD Blu-ray and Blu-ray on July 26.

READ OUR THEATRICAL REVIEW HERE.

Journey into the unknown in Marvel Studios’ Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. When the MCU unlocks the Multiverse, Doctor Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) must enlist help from old and new allies as he traverses mind-bending and dangerous alternate realities in order to confront a surprising adversary.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray edition includes Dolby Atmos and both the Blu-ray and the 4K Blu-ray's supplements include an audio commentary, bloopers, deleted scenes, and featurettes.

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray
 

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness
 

So far we haven't encountered any specific retailer exclusives, but we expect a Best Buy SteelBook and Target is likely to offer up another one of their book packages. Also no news of a 3-D Blu-ray release yet in the international markets but we'll keep an eye out for one. Pre-orders should be available soon and we will update as soon as possible. Here is the full press release:

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Unlock Alternate Realities When Marvel Studios’ DOCTOR STRANGE IN THE MULTIVERSE OF MADNESS Arrives on Digital June 22 
and 4K Ultra HD™, Blu-ray™ and DVD July 26

 

BURBANK,CA (June 9, 2022) – Described as a “psychedelic mind-flip masterpiece” (Larry Carroll, Looper) Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness has enthralled audiences and critics around the world. Sam Raimi’s exuberant film is a global phenomenon and “undoubtedly mesmerizing” (Jenna Anderson, ComicBook.com).

 

Witness the mind-bending alternate realities of the multiverse when Marvel Studios’ Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness debuts on all major digital platforms June 22 and on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and DVD on July 26. Embrace the madness by adding the latest MCU film to your Marvel movie collection. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness will also stream on Disney+.

 

Film Synopsis

Journey into the unknown in Marvel Studios’ Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. When the MCU unlocks the Multiverse, Doctor Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) must enlist help from old and new allies as he traverses mind-bending and dangerous alternate realities in order to confront a surprising adversary.

 

Bonus Features*

Featurettes

• Method to the Madness - Join various crew members and Marvel employees in interviews as they discuss their love of Sam Raimi and all the details of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness that make it quintessentially Raimi.
• Introducing America Chavez - In this short and fun profile piece, we’ll learn about America’s humble beginnings in the comics. We’ll meet Xochitl Gomez and discuss the complications her character's unique power presents for the future of the MCU.
• Constructing the Multiverse - Writing a feature film for Marvel is no easy task. In this playful yet informative featurette, we’ll dive into the challenges that writer Michael Waldron faced in creating the twisting and turning story of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.

Bloopers

• Gag Reel - Take a look at some of the fun outtakes on set with the cast and crew of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.

Deleted Scenes

• A Great Team - A journalist questions Doctor Strange's integrity.
• Pizza Poppa - Bruce is relieved when Doctor Strange's spell ends.
• It's Not Permanent - Bruce tries to accuse Doctor Strange of being an imposter.

Audio Commentary

 

• View the film with audio commentary by Sam Raimi, Richie Palmer, and Michael Waldron.

 

*bonus features vary by product and retailer

 

Cast

Benedict Cumberbatch as Doctor Stephen Strange

Elizabeth Olsen as Wanda Maximoff / The Scarlet Witch

Chiwetel Ejiofor as Baron Mordo

Benedict Wong as Wong

Xochitl Gomez as America Chavez

Rachel McAdams as Dr. Christine Palmer

 

Directed by

Sam Raimi     

  

Produced by

Kevin Feige p.g.a           

                            

Co-Producers

Mitchell Bell

Richie Palmer

 

Executive Producers

Victoria Alonso

Eric Hauserman Carroll

Jamie Christopher

Louis D’Esposito

Scott Derrickson

                                             

Written by

Michael Waldron

                    

Music by

Danny Elfman

 

Product Specifications

Street Date

Digital: June 22

Physical: July 26

 

Product SKUs

Digital: 4K UHD, HD, SD

Physical: 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack (4K UHD + Blu-ray + Digital Code), Blu-ray Combo Pack (Blu-ray + Digital Code) & DVD

 

Feature Run Time

 

Approx. 126 minutes

 

Rating

U.S. Rated PG-13

      

Aspect Ratio

Digital: 2:39

Physical: 2:39:1

 

U.S. Audio

4K Ultra HD: English 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos, English AD 2.0 Dolby Digital, French 5.1 Dolby Digital, Spanish 7.1 Dolby Digital Plus

Blu-ray: English 7.1 DTS-HDMA, English AD 2.0 Dolby Digital, French 5.1 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital

DVD: English 5.1 Dolby, English AD 2.0 Dolby, French 5.1 Dolby, Spanish 5.1 Dolby

Digital: English Dolby Atmos (UHD only, some platforms), English 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, French 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, English Descriptive Audio 2.0 Dolby Digital (some platforms)

 

U.S. Subtitles

4K Ultra HD: English SDH, Spanish, French

Blu-ray: English SDH, Spanish, French

DVD: English SDH, Spanish, French

Digital: English SDH, French, Spanish (some platforms)

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At long last, Michael Mann's iconic crime saga comes to 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray with a new sequel novel on August 9th, 2022

Al Pacino and Robert De Niro dually power the momentum and large scale of this groundbreaking film written and directed by Michael Mann. In the wake of a precision heist of an armored truck, an obsessive detective (Pacino) begins to hunt ruthless, professional thief Neil McCauley (De Niro) through the streets of Los Angeles. As the stakes escalate, their lives begin to mirror and unravel, and McCauley’s crew initiates its most dangerous and complex heist. Co-starring Val Kilmer, Tom Sizemore, Ashley Judd, Amy Brenneman, Diane Venora, Natalie Portman, and Jon Voight, Heat delivers hard-hitting action, gripping suspense, and stunning performances.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray edition does not appear to include Dolby Atmos and all of the supplements seem to be previously released features from the Blu-ray.

However, on August 9, Heat 2 -- Michael Mann's first novel -- will be published telling "an original story woven from the lives of the characters in Heat, both before and after the events depicted in the movie." 

Heat - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray

  

[UPDATED] 

Best Buy was a little slow to the announcement but they're also offering up their own SteelBook for this release:

Heat - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray SteelBook

Order your copy now and here is the full press release:

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LOS ANGELES, CA (June 8, 2022) – Robert DeNiro, Al Pacino and Michael Mann will reunite at this year’s Tribeca Festival for the first public premiere of the new 4K Ultra HD version of Mann’s 1995 classic, Heat.

The film’s stars, along with writer-director Michael Mann and producer Art Linson, will attend the screening on June 17 which will be followed by an on-stage conversation, moderated by journalist and filmmaker Bilge Ebiri. For more information please visit www.tribecafilm.com.

This special screening celebrates the release on August 9 of the 20th Century Studios film on 4K Ultra HD Disc for the first time. The remastered film includes previously released audio commentary with Director Michael Mann, Q&As, deleted scenes and more extras.

 

Also on August 9, Mann’s first novel, Heat 2, which tells an original story woven from the lives of the characters in Heat, both before and after the events depicted in the movie, will be published.

 

Film Synopsis

Al Pacino and Robert De Niro dually power the momentum and large scale of this groundbreaking film written and directed by Michael Mann. In the wake of a precision heist of an armored truck, an obsessive detective (Pacino) begins to hunt ruthless, professional thief Neil McCauley (De Niro) through the streets of Los Angeles. As the stakes escalate, their lives begin to mirror and unravel, and McCauley’s crew initiates its most dangerous and complex heist. Co-starring Val Kilmer, Tom Sizemore, Ashley Judd, Amy Brenneman, Diane Venora, Natalie Portman and Jon Voight, Heat delivers hard-hitting action, gripping suspense and stunning performances.

Bonus Features

4K Ultra HD

• Director’s Audio Commentary 

Blu-ray Disc One 

• Heat In High Definition 
• Director’s Audio Commentary 

Bonus Blu-ray Disc Two 

• Q&A With Michael Mann 
• Q&A With Christopher Nolan 
• 3-Part Making-Of Documentary 
• Deleted Scenes 
• Pacino and De Niro: The Conversation 
• Return To The Scene Of The Crime

 

 

Cast

Robert De Niro as Neil McCauley

Al Pacino as Lt. Vincent Hanna

Val Kilmer as Chris Shiherlis

Jon Voight as Nate

Tom Sizemore as Michael Cheritto

Diane Venora as Justine

Amy Brenneman as Eady

Ashley Judd as Charlene Shiherlis

 

Directed by

Michael Mann

 

Executive Producers

Pieter Jan Brugge

Arnon Milchan

 

Produced by

Michael Mann

Art Linson

 

Screenplay by

Michael Mann

 

Music by

Elliot Goldenthal

Product Specifications

Street Date

Physical: August 9

Product SKU

Physical: 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack 3 Discs (4K UHD + Blu-ray + Blu-ray Bonus Disc + Digital Code)

Feature Run Time

Approx. 170 minutes

Rating

U.S. Rated R

* For violence and language 

   

Aspect Ratio

Physical: 2.40:1

U.S. Audio

4K Ultra HD: English 5.1 DTS-HDMA, French 5.1 DTS Digital Surround, Spanish 2.0 Dolby Digital

U.S. Subtitles

4K Ultra HD: English SDH, Spanish, French

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From revenge-riddled Vikings to memable superheroes to undead patriots to Nicolas Cage - June is a stacked month for great 4K Ultra HD Blu-rays 

May was a stacked month for exciting new and catalog releases on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray. When you have so many coming out all at once - with several on the same day - we're still trying to catch up with reviews! Just because May was stacked doesn't mean June is going to take it easy on our review staff or our wallets! The only relief we're getting is some titles that would have come out this month got pushed into July, but that just means July is going to be even crazier than it was. So let's jump into this exciting mess of titles and see what's coming our way. Once again, I'd like to take everyone who pre-orders their pickups through our links. They really do go a long way towards keeping our little operation up and running. Without further ado...

High-Def Digest's June 2022 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Shopping Guide 

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June 7th, 2022 - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Releases

Most months start out a bit slow and ramp-up to a crushing final week,  but not this time. June comes firing strong right out of the gate with a variety of exciting new and catalog releases. 

The Northman - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray 

 

The Contractor- 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray 

 

The Bridge on the River Kwai - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray SteelBook 

 

Lawrence of Arabia - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray SteelBook  

 

The Bourne Complete Collection - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray 

 

The Bourne Complete Collection - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray SteelBook 

 

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June 14th, 2022 - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Releases

Things slow down considerably this week giving collectors a little bit of a breather. This week sees only two major theatrical releases that were dramatic under-performers, one of which has become an internet meme sensation to the point the studio is now actually trying a second theatrical release ahead of its arrival on digital and physical media. As for re-releases, one fan-favorite title gets a good and proper SteelBook featuring the original poster art.

Ambulance - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray 

 

Raiders of the Lost Ark - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray SteelBook 

 

Morbius - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

Morbius - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Walmart Exclusive  

 

Morbius - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray SteelBook  

 

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June 21st, 2022 - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Releases 

After a slower week, things pick back up again for a full range of popular new, classic, and cult classic favorites. 

The Bad Guys - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

Uncle Sam - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

Giant - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

Shaft - Criterion Collection 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

Universal Soldier - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray SteelBook 

 

Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Walmart Exclusive  

 

Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray SteelBook  

 

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June 28th, 2022 - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Releases 

For the final week of June we have a ton of great titles hitting the shelves ranging from two new excellent catalog titles from Kino Lorber Studio Classics to the latest from the Wizarding World to a fan-favorite romantic thriller finally getting a U.S. release

Out of Sight - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray 

 

True Romance Limited Edition - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray 

 

True Romance Deluxe Limited Edition SteelBook - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray 

 

True Romance Limited Edition SteelBook - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray 

 

Killer’s Kiss - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray 

 

Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray 

 

Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Walmart Exclusive 

 

Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray SteelBook 

 

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And that covers it for U.S. domestic 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray domestic releases for the month of June, 2022. Perhaps not as exhausting as May, but it's going to be nice as we head into July and all the titles that are dropping in the middle of summer. Now there are a few import titles hitting this month we hope to cover, but with shipping time and customs delays those reviews may not come in right on street date. If any of titles in this list get bumped to a later date or if there are any last-second additions, we'll update this article ASAP. 

Thanks again for those pre-orders! 

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A chase across the face of Mount Rushmore. A massive flock of vicious birds perched upon a playground jungle gym poised for attack. A frantic pursuit to the top of the Statue of Liberty. A crazed, knife-wielding maniac ripping open a shower curtain. A wheelchair-bound man with a broken leg peering into the rear windows of his tenement neighbors through a camera’s telephoto lens. A woman clutching the key to a notorious wine cellar where Nazi secrets may be hidden. An assassin escaping a rain-soaked murder scene amid a sea of jostling umbrellas. A merry-go-round kicked into high gear that spins off its axis while terrified fair-goers flee. A desperate man chasing the object of his desire up the narrow staircase of a church bell tower while battling the debilitating symptoms of vertigo. These are just a handful of iconic images crafted by the Master of Suspense, Alfred Hitchcock.

Elegant and sophisticated, clever and witty, yet always accessible and relatable, Hitchcock fashioned countless thrillers over the course of a career that spanned six decades. He chronicled espionage, murder, blackmail, psychosis, obsession, political intrigue, and bizarre phenomena all while pushing the cinematic envelope with innovative sight and sound techniques that enhance his arresting style. Sensual romances, risqué innuendoes, and dark yearnings also pepper his films. Along with his trademark MacGuffins, such titillations are essential distractions that add to the fun and make his stories more human. Sexual tension complements the other myriad tensions coursing through Hitchcock’s pictures and it’s often just as delectable as the nail-biting moments that make us squirm.

Since I joined the High-Def Digest staff in 2009, I’ve reviewed 27 Hitchcock movies for the site. That’s about half of the legendary director’s feature film output. While a few Hitchcock pictures have yet to make their Blu-ray debut (Sabotage, Secret Agent, Young and Innocent, and Mr. and Mrs. Smith chief among them), we’re blessed to have the bulk of Hitchcock's cinematic canon in high definition, as well as nine movies in 4K UHD, and one title in its native 3D. Not all of them are classics, but even Hitchcock’s misfires have merits and are just as fascinating to watch, assess, and analyze as his more renowned works.

The following list, though, isn’t about Hitchcock's failures, also-rans, guilty pleasures, and undiscovered gems. It’s about the crème-de-la-crème of Hitchcock in the home video realm. Below you’ll find a few quick takes on the best looking and the best sounding Hitchcock thrillers in 1080p and 2160p. First and foremost, this is an HD and 4K UHD list. If one of your favorite Hitchcock masterworks didn't make the cut, it's not because it isn't worthy artistically; it's because another Hitchcock masterwork boasts better picture and audio quality...at least to my eyes and ears. I've only singled out five movies, but all of them define this brilliant craftsman who not only produced some of the most exciting and entertaining motion pictures of all time, but also advanced the medium’s artistry through his creatIve vision and fluency in the nuanced language of film.

Hitchcock once said, “For me, cinema is not a slice of life, but a piece of cake.”

Let’s sample five of this master baker’s most delicious creations that look good enough to eat…and sound great, too.

Best All-Around 4K UHD Hitchcock Release: VERTIGO (1958) 

"Beauty, at least in this film, is only skin deep, and Hitchcock takes that adage and runs with it..."

When I reviewed the first 4K UHD Alfred Hitchcock Classics Collection in 2020, I called Vertigo “the crown jewel” of the set, and it remains the most breathtaking home video presentation of a Hitchcock film to date. The movie itself isn’t bad either. Vertigo may not rank as my favorite Hitchcock film (although it’s definitely up there), but I believe it to be the director’s finest. A masterpiece of mood, mystery, and slow-burn suspense, Vertigo casts a mesmerizing spell, and its equally hypnotic HDR10 transfer faithfully renders Robert Burks’ lush, colorful VistaVision cinematography that - believe it or not - is even more gorgeous than Kim Novak herself.

As I wrote in my review, “Provocative themes, shocking twists and turns, impeccable craftsmanship, inventive imagery, finely etched performances, overarching lyricism, and tension that grows ever tauter as the narrative progresses...all those key components of Hitchcock's best works are here. Vertigo, though, ramps them up to the same dizzying heights that force retired police detective John "Scottie" Ferguson (James Stewart) to succumb to the title affliction. Like Scottie, viewers often feel a bit disoriented and imbalanced while watching Vertigo, and that's part of the film's allure, along with the obligatory icy Hitchcock Blonde (portrayed by an aloof, enigmatic, and magnetic Kim Novak), who achieves mythic status in this defining production.” 

The particulars of the plot, as intriguing as they may be, really don’t matter. The disturbing underlying themes are what fuel the Vertigo narrative and Hitchcock’s stylish, often brash presentation. Beauty, at least in this film, is only skin deep, and Hitchcock takes that adage and runs with it, crafting serene, seductive, picture-perfect images that hide the deceptions and nefarious motives lurking underneath. Obsession, transformation, guilt, and burning desire swirl around this noir-ish tale of a damaged detective who falls down a rabbit hole after agreeing to tail a rich man’s mentally unbalanced wife. Hitchcock pulls out all the stops in this operatic opus that features stunning San Francisco locations, striking photographic effects, and a memorable chase up the steep steps of a claustrophobic church bell tower.

The video transfer has to be seen to be believed. Eye-popping color, seamless special effects, razor-sharp close-ups, and a glorious film-like feel are just a few of its joys, and though the DTS:X audio track won’t blow the roof off your house, it deftly honors this quiet film and Bernard Herrmann’s marvelous score. A bunch of great extras also enhance the disc, which is now available as a stand-alone release in both standard and steelbook packaging. I said it in 2020 and I’ll say it again: “Vertigo is one heady movie, and as Hitchcock spins his tangled yarn, he makes us dizzy...with delight.”

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Best All-Around Blu-ray Hitchcock Release: NORTH BY NORTHWEST (1959)

"The quintessential chase film, a blueprint for the modern action epic..."

If I had to pick one Hitchcock flick that completely defines the director and reflects everything he has brought to the cinematic table over the course of his illustrious career, it would have to be North by Northwest. No contest, no discussion, a no-brainer. Other Hitchcock films may have more cachet, more notoriety, more gravitas, but this breathlessly paced, consistently thrilling concoction is hands-down the most fun. 

So many memorable elements… Of course, tanned, debonair Cary Grant rushing into a desolate Indiana cornfield to evade a deadly crop-dusting plane intent on gunning him down tops the list, but the climactic chase across the treacherous face of Mount Rushmore - as preposterous as it is - ranks a close second. Then there’s the crackling sexual chemistry and titillating banter between Grant and the Hitchcock blonde du jour Eva Marie Saint, whose duplicitous portrayal drips with icy-hot allure; the suave villainy of the mellifluous James Mason; Martin Landau as a silent, hulking henchman; Bernard Herrmann’s dramatic and playful score... The list goes on and on.

As I wrote in my original review 13 years ago, “When screenwriter Ernest Lehman first began collaborating with the Master of Suspense, he aspired to create ‘the Hitchcock picture to end all Hitchcock pictures,’ and many would agree North by Northwest is just that. The quintessential chase film, a blueprint for the modern action epic, and Hitchcock's personal homage to himself, this captivating transcontinental pursuit smoothly combines suspense, thrills, comedy, romance, and intrigue, and presents them with all the elegant artistry and brash innovation that has made Hitchcock one of cinema's most esteemed and admired directors.” Though I love many Hitchcock films for many different reasons, I would definitely choose North by Northwest as my desert island Hitchcock flick.

The fine grain structure, bold colors, and enhanced clarity of VistaVision make North by Northwest a Blu-ray natural, and Warner Home Video’s splashy restoration maximizes the impact of the process’ myriad attributes. The Dolby TrueHD 5.1 audio track immerses us in all the action (the bass boom when the crop-dusting plane hits the tanker truck is thunderous), and a sizable supplemental package sweetens the deal. The beautiful 50th Anniversary digibook edition is still available (albeit with a hefty price tag), but there’s also a disc-only release that fits everyone’s budget.

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Best Black-and-White 4K UHD Hitchcock Release: PSYCHO (1960) 

"Often imitated but never equaled, Psycho remains a crazy-good chiller that never loses its edge..."

The shower. The stairs. The fruit cellar. Mother. Psycho is without a doubt Hitchcock’s most famous - and frightening - film, a low-budget tour de force that flipped the thriller genre on its ear and spawned the modern slasher flick. What starts as a brooding, atmospheric portrait of a woman on the run takes a hairpin turn the moment Janet Leigh steps into the shower, turns on the water, and confronts her wigged (and wigged-out) knife-wielding assailant. Psycho shocked audiences when it premiered in 1960, and though it’s tame when compared to the gory horror fare of today, it can still scare the bejesus out of you.

Especially in 4K UHD. Though John L. Russell’s gritty, naturalistic black-and-white cinematography doesn’t scream 2160p splendor, the terrific clarity and contrast of the HDR10 transfer makes Psycho more immersive and creepy than ever before, while remaining true to the film’s modest roots. Add a dynamite DTS:X track that makes full use of all the speakers during the torrential rain scenes and heightens the impact of Bernard Herrmann’s deliciously screechy score, and you’ve got the definitive home video presentation of this Hitchcock masterwork. A few snippets of cut footage add extra appeal to this release that includes all the supplements from the 50th anniversary Blu-ray edition. Like Vertigo, Psycho is also available in both stand-alone and steelbook editions.

As I wrote in my 2020 review, “Psycho is remembered as a physically violent film, marked by brutal slayings in the shower and on the stairs, and for its climactic chamber of horrors twist. Yet those three scenes comprise less than three minutes of the picture's 109-minute running time and feature surprisingly little gore. (Hitchcock's genius lies in his ability to make us think we see more than we actually do.) Sure, they leave an indelible impression, but they can't quite overshadow the more intriguing and complex psychological studies of both Norman Bates (Anthony Perkins) and Marion Crane (Leigh), whose paths coincidentally and fatefully cross one dark and stormy night. That's where the true allure of Psycho lies, and Hitchcock expertly develops those characters so we identify and empathize with them. He also sprinkles in some welcome bits of ghoulish humor to take the edge off, and frames it all with his patented visual artistry. A close-up of an eye peering through a hole in the wall, reflections representing duality and duplicity, high and low angle shots altering perspective and enhancing a sense of unease…Hitchcock delicately and seamlessly weaves them into his fabric so we're only marginally aware of his technique.” 

Perkins had as much trouble shedding the skin of Norman Bates as Norman had freeing himself from his domineering mother, but that’s only because his finely etched, nuanced portrayal is so riveting. Though he would allow Norman to consume him later in his career in a series of entertaining - if misguided - sequels, Perkins could never top his original performance, which was criminally denied a Best Actor Oscar nomination. Leigh, who reportedly never took a shower again after she completed her scenes, got a well-deserved Best Supporting Actress nod for her terrific work, which stands the test of time and becomes more fascinating and dimensional each time I see the film.

Often imitated but never equaled, Psycho remains a crazy-good chiller that never loses its edge, no matter how often we revisit it. As I wrote in 2020, it’s “unique among Hitchcock films in its tone, execution, and look…[and] it's a movie to watch, enjoy, study, and scrutinize over and over again.”

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Best Black-and-White Blu-ray Hitchcock Release: NOTORIOUS (1946) (Criterion) 

"...a climax that ranks among the most memorable - and quietest - in Hitchcock history."

I love the Hitchcock blondes, but there’s a reason the Master of Suspense cast the brunette Ingrid Bergman in three of his films over a four-year period in the late 1940s. Aside from her breathtaking beauty (always an important attribute to Hitchcock), Bergman is a great actress. I’d even go so far as to say she’s the best actress Hitchcock worked with during his long career. Grace Kelly and Tippi Hedren may be the Hitchcock poster girls, but Bergman brings heart and soul, flesh and blood, and sweat and tears to her Hitchcock heroines. In Hitch’s artificial world of action, intrigue, and murder, she’s often the one real element.

Bergman could play anything - good girl, bad girl, saint, seductress, victim, patriot - and she plays them all in Notorious, one of Hitchcock’s most fully realized, suspenseful, and elegantly crafted motion pictures. Vertigo may be Hitchcock’s most hypnotic film, Psycho may be the scariest, North by Northwest the most action-packed, but Notorious just might be the most perfect of all Hitchcock productions. Edgy, romantic, taut, sexy, substantive, and brimming with artistry and lyricism, Notorious grabs you from the first frame and holds you until that brilliant humdinger of an ending.

Cary Grant, who never looked more dashing or filed a more surly performance, portrays Devlin, a cynical government agent who enlists the services of Alicia Huberman (Bergman), the “notorious” daughter of a convicted Nazi spy, to go undercover and expose a ring of exiled Nazi conspirators in Rio de Janeiro. The plot sounds straightforward, but Ben Hecht’s literate, Oscar-nominated script focuses on the tangled relationships and myriad psychological conflicts that add complexity and spice to the story. Love vs. duty is a central theme, and issues of trust, jealousy, guilt, manipulation, and self-loathing - as well as a fascinating Oedipal relationship - fuel the film, but there’s plenty of agonizing tension, crackling sexual chemistry, and illicit deeds, too. 

Hitchcock delivers one dynamite scene after another. In addition to the justifiably famous, lengthy zoom shot that begins on the second floor of a mansion and ends on an extreme close-up of Bergman’s hand fidgeting with a key, there’s the breathlessly tense wine cellar sequence, a telephone conversation that’s gotta be one of the sexiest things I’ve ever seen on screen, several disorienting camera angles, and a climax that ranks among the most memorable - and quietest - in Hitchcock history. All that plus Grant, Bergman, the Oscar-nominated supporting work of the marvelous Claude Rains (it’s such a shame Hitchcock didn’t use him in any of his other pictures), and a virtuoso turn by Madame Konstantin, the film’s Machiavellian Madame Defarge.

Criterion’s 2019 Blu-ray outclasses the previous 2012 MGM release with a beautiful 4K restoration that’s largely drawn from the original camera negative, strong audio, and a bunch of fascinating supplements. Until we get a 4K UHD edition, this is the definitive presentation of Notorious, which in 2019 I called “a stirring, absorbing, emotionally involving, and artistically satisfying film that hits all the right notes - a symphony of suspense, if you will, conducted with nuance and gusto by the genre's most accomplished maestro.” Bravo, Hitch!

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Best Blu-ray Release of a British Hitchcock Film: THE LADY VANISHES (1938)

"The Lady Vanishes is a prime example of lean, focused moviemaking."

There’s no denying Hitchcock made his best pictures in Hollywood, but the formative and largely admirable films he produced across the pond in his native Great Britain merit attention, too. Such exciting, engrossing, and innovative thrillers as the original The Man Who Knew Too Much (which I prefer to the bloated 1956 remake), The 39 Steps (a fantastic forerunner to such action-packed, on-the-run classics as Foreign Correspondent, Saboteur, and North by Northwest), and Sabotage all contain the patented hallmarks Hitchcock would continue to cultivate, expand upon, and refine over the ensuing four decades of his career. I’m a big fan of Hitchcock’s British period, and though I greatly appreciate and thoroughly enjoy all of the aforementioned movies, my vote for the best British Hitchcock flick goes to The Lady Vanishes. 

What starts as a screwball comedy and for the first half-hour seems like the antithesis of all things Hitchcock quickly evolves into another quintessential Master of Suspense movie. The disappearance of a kindly old lady (Dame May Whitty) on a European train forms the crux of the plot, but the narrative really gets interesting when no one except the woman’s fleeting travel companion (Margaret Lockwood) believes she exists at all. Though the story has been recycled and reinvented several times, this is the original version, and it has no peer. Humorous antics, vivid characters, a love/hate relationship, claustrophobic tension, and an edge-of-your-seat shootout finale pepper and propel the tale, and though at times it feels as if Hitchcock is just throwing everything at the wall to see what sticks, nothing could be further from the truth. A master planner, the Master of Suspense meticulously mapped out almost every frame of every film he directed, and The Lady Vanishes proves once again how adept he is at molding myriad, often competing elements into a cohesive whole.

As I wrote in my 2011 review of the film, “There's no fluff or extraneous palaver gumming up the works; The Lady Vanishes is a prime example of lean, focused moviemaking. Though the film takes its time laying its groundwork and might seem initially aimless, don't doubt Hitchcock. Like the train on which most of the action takes place, it quickly picks up steam and barrels full throttle toward a thrilling climax. And along the way, there's plenty of snappy dialogue and witty repartee to sweeten the journey, much of it pointedly aimed at British society, apathy, and egotism.” There’s no love lost between Hitchcock and England here. In fact, Hitchcock seems almost eager to bite the hand that feeds him, which of course makes the movie more fun. Not surprisingly, Hitch would become a British expatriate just two years later when he bolted to Hollywood to make Rebecca for producer David O. Selznick and cement his status as one of cinema’s first bona fide auteurs.

Criterion’s video transfer may not be a stunner, but it’s by far the best home video rendering of this timeless classic. Clean and vibrant, with great clarity, excellent contrast, and a pleasing grayscale, this film-like presentation immerses us in the action, while solid audio and plenty of extras enhance the experience. So hop aboard and hang on for a turbulent and terrific rollercoaster ride. If you haven’t yet seen any of Hitchcock’s British films, The Lady Vanishes is a great introduction to a highly interesting period, and will surely whet your appetite for more.  

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HIGH-DEF DIGEST’S HITCHCOCK INDEX
If you’re interested in reading full reviews of dozens of Hitchcock movies, many of which come highly recommended, check out the links below, listed in chronological order by date of theatrical release with the name of the reviewer in parentheses.

The Lodger: A Story of the London Fog (1927) (David Krauss)

Blackmail (1929) (David Krauss)

Murder! (1930) (David Krauss)

Rich and Strange (1931) (David Krauss)

Number Seventeen (1932) (David Krauss)

The Man Who Knew Too Much (1934) (David Krauss)

The 39 Steps (1935) (David Krauss)

The Lady Vanishes (1938) (David Krauss)

Rebecca (1940) (David Krauss)

Foreign Correspondent (1940) (David Krauss)

Suspicion (1941) (David Krauss)

Saboteur (1942) (M. Enois Duarte)

Shadow of a Doubt (1943) (M. Enois Duarte)

Lifeboat (1944) (David Krauss)

Spellbound (1945) (David Krauss)

Notorious (1946) (David Krauss)

The Paradine Case (1947) (David Krauss)

Rope (1948) (Aaron Peck)

Under Capricorn (1949) (David Krauss)

Stage Fright (1950) (David Krauss)

Strangers on a Train (1951) (David Krauss)

I Confess (1953) (David Krauss)

Dial M for Murder (1954) (David Krauss)

Rear Window (1954) (David Krauss)

To Catch a Thief (1955) (David Krauss)

The Trouble with Harry (1956) (Matthew Hartman)

The Man Who Knew Too Much (1956) (Aaron Peck)

The Wrong Man (1957) (David Krauss)

Vertigo (1958) (David Krauss)

North by Northwest (1959) (David Krauss)

Psycho (1960) (David Krauss)

The Birds (1963) (David Krauss)

Marnie (1964) (M. Enois Duarte)

Torn Curtain (1966) (Aaron Peck)

Topaz (1969) (Aaron Peck)

Frenzy (1972) (Aaron Peck)

Family Plot (1976) (M. Enois Duarte)

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.   Universal Studios' critically-acclaimed The Northman starring Alexander Skarsgård, Nicole Kidman, and Ethan Hawke will be available on Digital on June 6, with the 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray and the Blu-ray arriving in stores on June 7.

From visionary director Robert Eggers comes The Northman, an action-filled epic that follows a young Viking prince on his quest to avenge his father's murder and reclaim his kingdom. Read our theatrical review here.

Both the 4K UHD and Blu-ray will feature Dolby Atmos and bonus supplements include a commentary with Robert Eggers, deleted and extended scenes, and assorted featurettes.

The Northman - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray
 

The Northman
 

The full press release is included below:

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Universal City, California, May 31, 2022 – After witnessing firsthand the murder of his father, a Viking prince (Alexander Skarsgård) devotes his life to avenge his father’s death, save his mother and reclaim his kingdom in THE NORTHMAN, available to own for the first time with exclusive bonus content on Digital June 6, 2022 and on 4K Ultra HD Collector’s Edition, Blu-rayTM Collector’s Edition and DVD June 7, 2022 from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. Visionary director Robert Eggers (The Witch, The Lighthouse) creates “an absolute beast of a movie” (Phil de Semlyen, Time Out) with his latest film, boasting an 89% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Featuring epic action sequences and “packed with phenomenal performances” (Ross Bonaime, Collider) by Alexander Skarsgård, Nicole Kidman, and Ethan Hawke now with exclusive never-before-seen bonus features including nine deleted and extended scenes and exclusive behind-the-scenes featurettes.   The film is written and directed by Robert Eggers, and stars Alexander Skarsgård (Godzilla vs. Kong, The Legend of Tarzan), Nicole Kidman (Big Little Lies, Moulin Rouge), Anya Taylor-Joy (Queen’s Gambit, Emma), Willem Dafoe (Justice League, Spider-Man), Ethan Hawke (Training Day, Before Midnight), Claes Bang and Björk (Dancer In The Dark).

 

EXCLUSIVE BONUS FEATURES on DIGITAL*, 4K UHD, BLU-RAYTM AND DVD: DELETED AND EXTENDED SCENES AN AGELESS EPIC - An in-depth look at how filmmakers, cast, and crew immersed themselves in Norse history and mythology in an effort to make THE NORTHMAN the most accurate Viking epic ever filmed. THE FACES OF VIKINGS - The cast of THE NORTHMAN, alongside director Robert Eggers, discuss the depth of the characters and their experiences working together. FEATURE COMMENTARY WITH CO-WRITER/DIRECTOR ROBERT EGGERS   EXCLUSIVE COLLECTOR’S EDITION BONUS FEATURES ON DIGITAL*, 4K UHD, and BLU-RAY™: AMLETH’S JOURNEY TO MANHOOD -Aurvandil's initiation of Amleth into manhood is one of the most pivotal points on his journey. Take a deeper look at how filmmakers and cast crafted this mysterious ritual. SHOOTING THE RAID - Go behind-the-scenes of the raid and learn how different departments worked together to pull off this intricate sequence. KNATTLEIKR GAME - Learn all about this little-known game, how the scene was filmed, and why it's an essential moment for Amleth. A NORSE LANDSCAPE -We explore the spectacular shooting locations of THE NORTHMAN and discuss how filmmakers were able to overcome the unique challenges of shooting the film in Northern Ireland. *Digital bonus features available from select retailers     THE NORTHMAN will be available on Digital, 4K UHD, Blu-ray™ and DVD Digital lets fans watch movies anywhere on their favorite devices. Users can instantly buy or rent. The Movies Anywhere Digital App simplifies and enhances the digital movie collection and viewing experience by allowing consumers to access their favorite digital movies in one place when purchased or redeemed through participating digital retailers. Consumers can also redeem digital copy codes found in eligible Blu-rayTM and DVD disc packages from participating studios and stream or download them through Movies Anywhere.  Movies Anywhere is available only in the United States. Blu-ray™ unleashes the power of your HDTV and is the best way to watch movies at home, featuring 6X the picture resolution of DVD, exclusive extras and theater-quality surround sound. 4K Ultra HD delivers the ultimate movie watching experience, featuring the combination of 4K resolution and the color brilliance of High Dynamic Range (HDR).

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The newly restored 1997 tongue-in-cheek horror directed by Blue Underground's founder William Lustig and written by legend Larry Cohen will make its 4K debut shortly before Independence Day. The film stars Robert Forster, Timothy Bottoms, Bo Hopkins, P.J. Soles, and Isaac Hayes.

Master Sergeant Sam Harper (David Fralick) is tragically killed in a horrible accident in Kuwait after his helicopter is shot down by friendly fire. Sam's charred remains are shipped back to his hometown of Twin Rivers, just as the town is preparing for its annual Fourth of July celebration. While being stored at his sister's house, Sam's dead body becomes reanimated and goes on a patriotic killing spree over the course of the holiday weekend. Uncle Sam is an over-the-top, tongue-in-cheek satire about American's obsession with military dominance and the great lengths the nation will go in order to appeal to the country's youth.

This 4K edition features a recently restored presentation scanned in 4K 16-bit from the original 35mm negative in honor of the film's 25th anniversary.  It will also include Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos.

Disc Information and Bonus Materials: 

• Ultra HD Blu-ray (2160p) Widescreen 2.40:1 feature presentation
• Audio: Dolby Atmos (English); 5.1 DTS-HD (English)
• Subtitles: English SDH, Francais, Espanol
• Audio Commentary #1 with Director William Lustig, Writer Larry Cohen and Producer George G. Braunstein
• Audio Commentary #2 with Director William Lustig and Star Isaac Hayes
• Fire Stunts with Audio Commentary by Stunt Coordinator Spiro Razatos
• Deleted Scene
• Gag Reel
• Theatrical Trailer
• Poster & Still Gallery

Uncle Sam - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray
 

The SRP for this release is $49.95. Pre-order your copy now.

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.   Lionsgate's action-comedy The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent also starring The Mandalorian's Pedro Pascal will be available on Digital on June 7, while the 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray and the Blu-ray will be available June 21st.

In this wildly entertaining, action-packed comedy, Oscar® winner Nicolas Cage plays…Nick Cage! Creatively unfulfilled and facing financial ruin, the fictionalized version of Cage accepts a million-dollar offer to attend the birthday of a dangerous superfan (Pedro Pascal). Things take an unexpected turn when Cage is recruited by a CIA operative (Tiffany Haddish) and he must use his legendary acting skills, channeling his most iconic and beloved characters to become a real-life action hero.

Both the 4K UHD and Blu-ray will have Dolby Atmos and several bonus features including commentary, deleted scenes, and featurettes.

The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray

The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
 

The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray (Best Buy Exclusive SteelBook)
 

The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray (Wal-Mart Exclusive)
 

The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent - Blu-ray (Target Exclusive)
 

The full press release is included below:

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Own it on Digital June 7  4K Ultra HD™ Combo Pack, Blu-ray™ Combo Pack, DVD,   & On Demand on June 21 from Lionsgate®   SANTA MONICA, CA (May 17, 2022) – Celebrate the world’s hero and prodigal movie star Nicolas Cage when The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent arrives on Digital June 7 and on 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack (plus Blu-ray and Digital), Blu-ray Combo Pack (plus DVD and Digital), DVD, and On Demand June 21 from Lionsgate. The adrenaline-fueled comedy stars Academy Award® winner Nicolas Cage (Best Actor, Leaving Las Vegas, 1995; National Treasure Franchise, Gone in 60 Seconds, The Rock), Pedro Pascal (“The Mandalorian,” “Narcos,” “Game of Thrones”), Sharon Horgan, Ike Barinholtz, Alessandra Mastronardi, Jacob Scipio, with Primetime Emmy® Award winner Neil Patrick Harris (Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series, “Glee,” 2010; “How I Met Your Mother,” Gone Girl, Harold & Kumar franchise), and Primetime Emmy® Award and GRAMMY Award® winner Tiffany Haddish (Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series, “Saturday Night Live,” 2018; Best Comedy Album, “Black Mitzvah”; Like a Boss, Night School, Girls Trip). In this wildly entertaining, action-packed comedy, Oscar® winner Nicolas Cage plays…Nick Cage! Creatively unfulfilled and facing financial ruin, the fictionalized version of Cage accepts a million-dollar offer to attend the birthday of a dangerous superfan (Pedro Pascal). Things take an unexpected turn when Cage is recruited by a CIA operative (Tiffany Haddish) and he must use his legendary acting skills, channeling his most iconic and beloved characters to become a real-life action hero.   The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack, and DVD will be available for the suggested retail price of $42.99, $39.99, and $29.96, respectively.    4K ULTRA HD / BLU-RAY / DIGITAL SPECIAL FEATURES   Deleted Scenes (with Optional Audio Commentary by Writer-Director Tom Gormican and Writer-Executive producer Kevin Etten) The Mind Meet the filmmakers and learn about the creative decisions behind the film. A film made with love, passion, and massive talent. Glimmers of a Bygone Cage He’s back. Not that he went anywhere. Go back in time in this behind-the-scenes featurette and relive Nicolas Cage’s journey as an actor and see how a legendary career inspired both filmmakers and cast to create a new era of Cage. Everybody Needs a Javi Nick Cage meets his ultimate fan. Discover why Pedro Pascal was the perfect choice to play the charismatic, lovable, and eccentric fan with a dark, dangerous secret. Nick, Nicky, and Sergio The man, the actor, the legend. Take a look inside Nicolas Cage’s mind and find out how this film is the culmination of a legendary career, but also a new beginning for one of the most versatile actors of our time. Second Act Action   And . . . action, and more action! Immerse yourself in the exciting world of stunts and special effects that helped to create incredible, well-choreographed action sequences with the help of the latest in high technology for filmmaking. Cages 5 and Up Don’t kids say the darndest things? What if what they said were lines from some of your favorite Nick Cage movies? We thought you’d never ask. SXSW Film Festival Q&A Featuring the Cast and Filmmakers. Audio Commentary by Writer-Director Tom Gormican and Writer-Executive Producer Kevin Etten DVD SPECIAL FEATURES  Deleted Scenes (with Optional Audio Commentary by Writer-Director Tom Gormican and Writer-Executive Producer Kevin Etten) SXSW Film Festival Q&A Featuring the Cast and Filmmakers Audio Commentary by Writer-Director Tom Gormican and Writer-Executive Producer Kevin Etten   Official Site: https://www.nickcage.movie/ Publicity Materials: https://www.lionsgatepublicity.com/theatrical/ Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2YHPZMj8r4&t=1s Instagram: @NickCageMovie Facebook: @NickCageMovie Twitter: @NickCageMovie Hashtag: #MassiveTalent   PROGRAM INFORMATION Year of Production: 2020-2021 Title Copyright: The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent © 2022, Artwork & Supplementary Materials ®, ™ & © 2022 Lions Gate Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved. Type: Theatrical Release Rating: R for language throughout, some sexual references, drug use and violence Genre: Comedy Action Feature Run Time: 107 Minutes Closed-Captioned: N/A Subtitles: English, Spanish, French, English SDH 4K Ultra HD™ Format: 2160p Ultra High Definition, 16x9 (2.39:1) Presentation, Dolby Vision  Blu-ray™ Format: 1080p High Definition, 16x9 (2.39:1) Presentation  DVD Format: 16x9 (2.39:1) Presentation  4K Audio: English Dolby Atmos, English Descriptive Audio, French 5.1 Dolby Audio, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Audio Blu-ray Audio:  English Dolby Atmos, English Descriptive Audio, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Audio, French 5.1 Dolby Audio DVD Audio:  English 5.1 Dolby Audio, English Descriptive Audio, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Audio, French 5.1 Dolby Audio

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   The 1956 epic western from George Stevens Sr. based on the novel by Edna Ferber and starring Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson, and James Dean in his final film role arrives on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray and Digital on June 21, 2022.

Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson, and James Dean star in a sweeping saga of jealousy, racism, and the clash of cultures set in the vast Texas oilfields comes to 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray for the first time!

Giant - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray
 

Widely considered by critics as "ahead of its time" and nominated for 10 Academy Awards, the film was chosen in 2005 to be preserved by the Library of Congress as being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant" for its heavy themes of racial injustice towards Mexican Americans and aiming to steer those views towards social acceptance for the first time in cinema.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray edition will a newly restored 4K HDR presentation that "was completed sourcing both the original camera negatives and protection RGB separation master positives for the best possible image, and color corrected in high dynamic range for the latest picture display technology. The audio was sourced primarily from a 1995 protection copy of the Original Magnetic Mono soundtrack. The picture and audio restoration was completed by Warner Bros. Post Production Creative Services: Motion Picture Imaging and Post Production Sound". The SRP for this release is $24.99.

Order your copy now and here is the full press release:

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GIANT COMES TO 4K ULTRA HD BLU-RAYTM AND DIGITAL FROM WARNER BROS. HOME ENTERTAINMENT   THE EPIC WESTERN DRAMA STARRING ELIZABETH TAYLOR, ROCK HUDSON AND JAMES DEAN WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 4K RESOLUTION WITH HIGH DYNAMIC RANGE (HDR)   Own it June 21 on 4K Ultra HD and Digital

 

Burbank, Calif., May 9, 2022 – Giant, the 1956 classic film starring Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson, and James Dean in his final role, will be released on Ultra HD Blu-ray and Digital on June 21, it was announced today by Warner Bros. Home Entertainment.  George Stevens, Sr. won his second Oscar® for directing the sweeping family saga set in Texas during the days of the oil boom. Based on Edna Ferber’s controversial novel, the movie's release in 1956 was a massive box office hit and garnered 10 Academy Award® nominations.  Considered by critics as ahead of its time, Giant is admired today for the breadth of its humanity more than its epic scale with its grand themes of generational conflict, racial tolerance, and social change. It exposed the marginalization and segregation of Mexican Americans for the first time on the big screen. At the center of the film, Elizabeth Taylor, as Leslie Benedict, portrays a strong and progressive woman who acts to stem the patterns of injustice. In 2005, the film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant."  The new 4K restoration was completed sourcing both the original camera negatives and protection RGB separation master positives for the best possible image, and color corrected in high dynamic range for the latest picture display technology. The audio was sourced primarily from a 1995 protection copy of the Original Magnetic Mono soundtrack. The picture and audio restoration was completed by Warner Bros. Post Production Creative Services: Motion Picture Imaging and Post Production Sound. Ultra HD* showcases 4K resolution with High Dynamic Range (HDR) and a wider color spectrum, offering consumers brighter, deeper, more lifelike colors for a home entertainment viewing experience like never before.    Giant will be available on Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc for $24.99 ERP and includes an Ultra HD Blu-ray disc with the feature film in 4K with HDR and a Digital download of the film.  Fans can also own Giant in 4K Ultra HD via purchase from select digital retailers beginning on June 21.     About the Film: Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson and James Dean star in a sweeping saga of jealousy, racism and the clash of cultures set in the vast Texas oilfields. Wealthy rancher Bick Benedict (Hudson) and dirt-poor cowboy Jett Rink (Dean) both woo Leslie Lynnton (Taylor) a beautiful young woman from Maryland who is new to Texas. She marries Benedict, but she is shocked by the racial bigotry of the White Texans against the local people of Mexican descent. Rink discovers oil on a small plot of land, and while he uses his vast, new wealth to buy all the land surrounding the Benedict ranch, the Benedict's disagreement over prejudice fuels conflict that runs across generations.   Ultra HD Blu-ray™ Elements Giant Ultra HD Blu-ray contains the following previously released special features: •    Commentary by George Stevens Jr., Screen Writer Ivan Moffat and Critic Stephen Farber DIGITAL DISTRIBUTION ELEMENTS   On June 21, Giant 4K UHD will be available to own for streaming and download to watch anywhere in high definition and standard definition on favorite devices from select digital retailers, and will be made available digitally on Video On Demand services from cable and satellite providers, and on select gaming consoles.     BASICS PRODUCT                                                                      ERP Ultra HD Blu-ray                                                             $24.99*        Standard Street Date: 6/21/22 EST Street Date: 6/21/22 Ultra HD Blu-ray Languages: English, Latin Spanish and Castilian Spanish, French Parisian Ultra HD Blu-ray Subtitles: English, Latin Spanish and Castilian Spanish, French Parisian Run Time: 201 min (3hr 21min) Rated: G   THE CREDITS   About Warner Bros. Discovery  Warner Bros. Discovery (NASDAQ: WBD) is a leading global media and entertainment company that creates and distributes the world’s most differentiated and complete portfolio of content and brands across television, film and streaming. Available in more than  220 countries and territories and 50 languages, Warner Bros. Discovery inspires, informs and entertains audiences worldwide through its iconic brands and products including: Discovery Channel, discovery+, CNN, DC, Eurosport, HBO, HBO Max, HGTV, Food Network, OWN, Investigation Discovery, TLC, Magnolia Network, TNT, TBS, truTV, Travel Channel, MotorTrend, Animal Planet, Science Channel, Warner Bros. Pictures, Warner Bros. Television, WB Games, New Line Cinema, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Turner Classic Movies, Discovery en Español, Hogar de HGTV and others. For more information, please visit www.wbd.com.

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Did you miss out on Turbine's excellent SteelBook release of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre? A standard release is on its way May 20th, 2022.

Even with four packaging options, Turbine Media Group's new 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre sold out in record time. If those SteelBooks weren't your thing, don't gas up the chainsaw in a cannibalistic rage to get one - a new standard softbox release is on its way for May 20th, 2022 and is now up for pre-order at Turbine's shop!

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre 
4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Standard Edition 

 

You're getting all of the same discs and bonus features content of the SteelBook set - just without the slick fancy packaging. You're still getting the excellent Dolby Vision HDR (and HDR10) transfer with the terrific Atmos and Auro3D audio options along with all of the audio commentaries and extra interviews and documentaries. So in that regard you're not going to miss a thing. Now if you're feeling a little left out with this standard packaging, you do pick up what I think is a cool extra that the SteelBook release didn't have - reversible insert artwork depicting the original German poster art! 

Reversible Insert Artwork

 

This is actually my holy grail of original movie posters and I haven't been able to get my hands on one out in the wild. I've seen them listed on eBay, but that ain't exactly the best place to shoot for authentic original movie posters. So on that note, I consider this a pretty cool little extra. 

Bonus Material

+ four audio commentaries by cast, director, cameraman, editor and sound engineer
+ documentaries and interviews The Chainsaw Business: From Grandfather's Stitching Box, The Chainsaw Cut, The Hallowed Ground of Horror
+ Documentaries: TCM – A Family Portrait; The Shocking; Truth, Flesh Wounds and Off the Hook
+ A Tour of the TCM House with Gunnar Hansen
+ Removed Scenes and Outtakes
+ The Shocking Truth Outtakes
+ 40th Anniversary Trailer, Cinema Trailer (USA, D), US TV & radio spot

As I mentioned, this set is now up for pre-order - just follow the "Go To Store" button in our listing and it'll take you right over to Turbine's shop. If you're running Firefox or Chrome, your browser should automatically translate to German and you're all set. 

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The biggest film of 2022 (so far) and one of the best comic book movies ever made, The Batman comes home to Digital April 18th and 4K UHD and Blu-ray Disc May 24th, 2022

Just this morning we posted on social about how The Batman was now available for pre-order from Best Buy due to hit store shelves May 24th. Now Warner Bros. makes it official. Premier digital retailers like iTunes and Vudu should see The Batman arrive for purchase on April 18th - the same day it arrives on HBO Max. As usual, Disc Collectors will have to sit tight a few more weeks until May 24th to get their hands on Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray copies. The cool thing is you'll have some options with some exciting store exclusives for picking this one up! Personally, after three visits to IMAX, I'm just glad to see this coming home sooner rather than later! 

The Batman - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Standard Release

 

The Batman - Blu-ray

The Batman - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Best Buy Exclusive SteelBook

Now here's where things get interesting. Walmart is showing a listing for a pretty snazzy deluxe Gift Set option with three discs. All artwork we've seen for other editions and the official press release indicate a 2-Disc release and nothing in Walmart's listing tells us what is on that third disc yet. We've made inquiries so hopefully, we'll find out soon what is on that third disc that's clearly labeled "bonus features"

The Batman - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Walmart Exclusive Gift Set

There is also a listing for a Target Exclusive Blu-ray - but it looks like the standard artwork and there's nothing to indicate what the exclusive is. When we find out we'll create a listing and add that to this roster of releases. 

Right now we don't quite have full specs for the 4K Ultra HD - we know that it will have Atmos Audio (as will the Blu-ray) but we have not heard back yet about HDR grade so count on base HDR10 for now. As soon as we know more we'll update our listings and this article. Until then, you can check out Warner Bros. full press release below. 

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"A mesmerizing mind-bender that grabs you hard and never lets go.”

Peter Travers, ABC News

 

The Batman

COMES HOME FROM

WARNER BROS. HOME ENTERTAINMENT

 

Premium Digital Ownership

debuts early on April 18

 

Stream on HBO Max on April 18

 

 4K, Blu-ray and DVD arrive on May 24

 

 

Burbank, CA, April 11 – Unmask the truth behind Gotham City’s vigilante detective and his alter ego, reclusive billionaire Bruce Wayne, when “The Batman” arrives for Premium Digital Ownership at home on April 18. The film is directed by Matt Reeves from a screenplay by Reeves and Peter Craig, based on characters created by DC, and stars Robert Pattinson (“Tenet,” “The Lighthouse”). The film will also be available to stream on HBO Max on April 18 and will be available on 4K UHD, Blu-ray and DVD beginning on May 24.

 

The film also stars Zoë Kravitz (TV’s “Big Little Lies,” “Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of

Grindelwald”), Paul Dano (“Love & Mercy,” “12 Years a Slave”), Jeffrey Wright (“No Time to Die,” TV’s “Westworld”), John Turturro (the “Transformers” films, “The Plot Against America”); Peter Sarsgaard (“The Magnificent Seven,” “Interrogation”), Jayme Lawson (“Farewell Amor”), Andy Serkis (the “Planet of the Apes” films, “Black Panther”) and Colin Farrell (“The Gentlemen,” “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them”). The film was produced by Dylan Clark and Reeves, with Michael E. Uslan, Walter Hamada, Chantal Nong Vo and Simon Emanuel executive producing.

 

• On April 18, “The Batman” will be available for early Premium Digital Ownership at home for $29.99 and for 48-hour rental via PVOD for $24.99 SRP on participating digital platforms where you purchase movies.

 

• On April 18, “The Batman” will be available to stream on HBO Max

 

• On May 24, “The Batman” will be available on 4K, Blu-ray and DVD. “The Batman” will also continue to be available to own in high definition and standard definition from participating digital retailers.

 

“The Batman” can be enjoyed at home with Filmmaker Mode ^TM. Developed by studios, TV manufacturers and some of Hollywood’s leading directors, Filmmaker Mode disables all post processing (e.g. motion smoothing), preserves the correct aspect ratios, colors and frame rates, and enables your TV to display the film precisely as it was intended by the filmmaker.  Filmmaker Mode is available on televisions from select manufacturers.

“The Batman” will also be available on Movies Anywhere. Using the free Movies Anywhere app and website, consumers can access all their eligible movies by connecting their Movies Anywhere account with their participating digital retailer accounts.

 

SYNOPSIS

 

More than a year of stalking the streets as the Batman (Robert Pattinson), striking fear

into the hearts of criminals, has led Bruce Wayne deep into the shadows of Gotham City. With

only a few trusted allies—Alfred (Andy Serkis), Lt. James Gordon (Jeffrey Wright)—amongst the city’s corrupt network of officials and high-profile figures, the lone vigilante has established himself as the sole embodiment of vengeance amongst his fellow citizens.

 

When a killer targets Gotham’s elite with a series of sadistic machinations, a trail of cryptic

clues sends the World’s Greatest Detective on an investigation into the underworld, where he

encounters such characters as Selina Kyle (Zoë Kravitz), Oz, aka The Penguin (Colin Farrell),

Carmine Falcone (John Turturro), and Edward Nashton/aka The Riddler (Paul Dano). As the

evidence begins to lead closer to home and the scale of the perpetrator’s plans becomes clear,

Batman must forge new relationships, unmask the culprit, and bring justice to the abuse of power

and corruption that has long plagued Gotham City.

 

DIGITAL, 4K, BLU-RAY & DVD ELEMENTS

“The Batman” Premium Digital Ownership contains the following special features:  

• Vengeance In The Making
• Vengeance Meets Justice
• The Batman: Genesis
• Becoming Catwoman
• Looking for Vengeance
• Anatomy of The Car Chase
• Anatomy of The Wingsuit
• A Transformation: The Penguin
• The Batmobile
• Deleted Scenes with Director’s Commentary

 

“The Batman” 4K UHD combo pack and Blu-ray contain the following special features: 

• Vengeance In The Making
• Vengeance Meets Justice
• The Batman: Genesis
• Becoming Catwoman
• Looking for Vengeance
• Anatomy of The Car Chase
• Anatomy of The Wingsuit
• A Transformation: The Penguin
• The Batmobile
• Unpacking The Icons
• Deleted Scenes with Director’s Commentary

 

“The Batman” DVD contains the following special feature: 

• Unpacking The Icons

 

 

ABOUT MOVIES ANYWHERE

 

Your Movies, Together at Last.TM MOVIES ANYWHERE lets you enjoy your favorite purchased or redeemed digital movies combined in one simplified, personal collection. MOVIES ANYWHERE brings together movies from Sony Pictures Entertainment, Universal Pictures (including DreamWorks and Illumination Entertainment), The Walt Disney Studios (including Disney, Pixar, Twentieth Century Studios, Marvel Studios and Lucasfilm), and Warner Bros. Entertainment. MOVIES ANYWHERE offers a library of over 7,900 digital movies, including new releases, and old favorites, and the user experience will continue to grow as more content providers, digital retailers and platforms are added. Using the MOVIES ANYWHERE app and website, consumers can connect their MOVIES ANYWHERE account with participating digital retailers and enjoy their favorite digital movies across multiple devices and platforms. Participating digital retailers include Apple TV, Prime Video, Vudu, Xfinity, Google Play/YouTube, Microsoft Movies & TV, FandangoNOW, Verizon Fios TV and DIRECTV. Consumers may also redeem digital codes found in eligible Blu-ray Discs™ and DVDs from participating studios: just look for the MOVIES ANYWHERE logo, redeem the code, then instantly enjoy your movie.

 

 

ABOUT DIGITAL

 

*Digital movies or TV episodes allow fans to watch a digital version of their movie or TV show anywhere, on their favorite devices. Digital movies or TV episodes are included with the purchase of specially marked Blu-ray discs. With digital, consumers are able to instantly stream and download movies and TV shows to TVs, computers, tablets and smartphones through retail services. For more information on compatible devices and services go to wb.com/digitalmoviefaq. Consult a digital retailer for details and requirements and for a list of digital-compatible devices.

 

BASICS

 

PRODUCT                                                                            SRP

            4K UHD Combo Pack                                                                        $29.99

Blu-ray                                                                                                $24.99

DVD                                                                                                   $19.99

 

Digital Ownership: April 18, 2022

PVOD: April 18, 2022

4K, Blu-ray and DVD Street Date: May 24, 2022

 

DVD Languages: Canadian French, English, Latin Spanish

BD Languages: Brazilian Portuguese, Canadian French, English, Latin Spanish

4K Languages: Canadian French, English, German, Italian, Latin Spanish

DVD Subtitles: Canadian French, English SDH, Latin Spanish, Parisian French

BD Subtitles: Brazilian Portugese, Canadian French, English SDH, Latin Spanish, Parisian French

4K Subtitles: Swedish, Latin Spanish, Norwegian, Italian, German, Parisian French, Canadian French, Finnish, Danish, English SDH ,

Running Time: 175 minutes

Rating: Rated PG-13 by the MPA for strong violent and disturbing content, drug

content, strong language, and some suggestive material

 

DVD: DLBY/DGTL

Blu-ray: ATMOS TrueHD

4K: ATMOS TrueHD

 

THE CREDITS

 

About “The Batman”

The film is directed by Matt Reeves from a screenplay by Reeves and Peter Craig, based on characters created by DC, produced by Dylan Clark and Reeves, with Michael E. Uslan, Walter Hamada, Chantal Nong Vo and Simon Emanuel executive producing.

 

The ensemble stars Robert Pattinson (“Tenet,” “The Lighthouse”), alongside Zoë Kravitz (TV’s “Big Little Lies,” “Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald”), Paul Dano (“Love & Mercy,” “12 Years a Slave”), Jeffrey Wright (“No Time to Die,” TV’s “Westworld”), John Turturro (the “Transformers” films, “The Plot Against America”); Peter Sarsgaard (“The Magnificent Seven,” “Interrogation”), Jayme Lawson (“Farewell Amor”), Andy Serkis (the “Planet of the Apes” films, “Black Panther”) and Colin Farrell (“The Gentlemen,” “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them”).

 

Warner Bros. Pictures Presents a 6th & Idaho/Dylan Clark Productions Production, a Matt

Reeves Film, “The Batman.”

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Ever feel like with each new month your 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray collection just gets bigger and bigger and yet your bank account just never seems to catch up?  

Maybe it was because the format has matured and is now rolling on all wheels with support from major studios and boutique labels? Maybe it's because of the pandemic, studios and labels decided to reinvest in physical media digging deep to bring fans some exciting hits and old favorites? Whatever it was - each month of 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray releases seems to be getting more and more aggressive. This month we see everything from the biggest theatrical hit of the pandemic era to one of the best 1980s science fiction flicks to a Best Picture-winning thriller making landfall on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray.

We have a lot to cover so let's not waste too much time and jump right in...

High-Def Digest's April 2022 - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Shopping Guide 

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April 5th, 2022 - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Releases

Death on the Nile (2022) - 4K UHD Blu-ray 

 

Scream (2022) - 4K UHD Blu-ray 

 

Scream (2022) - 4K UHD Blu-ray SteelBook 

 

Scream (2022) - 4K UHD Blu-ray Walmart Exclusive 

 

Scream 2-Movie Collection - 4K UHD Blu-ray 

 

Jack Reacher - 4K UHD Blu-ray SteelBook 

 

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April 12th, 2022 - 4K Ultra HD Blu-Ray Releases

RoboCop - 4K UHD Blu-ray Limited Edition 

 

RoboCop - 4K UHD Blu-ray Limited Edition SteelBook 

 

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein - 4K UHD Blu-ray 

 

Spider-Man: No Way Home - 4K UHD Blu-ray 

 

Spider-Man: No Way Home - 4K UHD Blu-ray Target Exclusive 

 

Spider-Man: No Way Home - 4K UHD Blu-ray Walmart Exclusive 

 

Spider-Man: No Way Home - 4K UHD Blu-ray SteelBook 

 

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April 19th, 2022 - 4K Ultra HD Blur-ay Releases 

Heavy Metal - 4K UHD Blu-ray SteelBook 

 

In the Heat of the Night - 4K UHD Blu-ray 

 

Cabin in the Woods - 4K UHD Blu-ray SteelBook 

 

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April 26th, 2022 - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray 

12 Monkeys - 4K UHD Blu-ray 

 

For All Mankind - 4K UHD Blu-ray 

 

Singin’ in the Rain - 4K UHD Blu-ray 

 

Moonfall - 4K UHD Blu-ray 

 

Moonfall - 4K UHD Blu-ray SteelBook 

 

Scanner Cop (Single Release) - 4K UHD Blu-ray 

 

Scanner Cop II (Single Release) - 4K UHD Blu-ray 

 

Madman - 4K UHD Blu-ray 

 

Schizoid / X-Ray - 4K UHD Blu-ray Double Feature 

 

Flesheater - 4K UHD Blu-ray Double Feature 

 

Death Wish II - 4K UHD Blu-ray Double Feature 

 

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And that does it for the 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray releases for April 2022. We hope this list is helpful and lets you plan all those new additions to your ever-growing collection.

Thank you for your pre-orders! Following our purchase links and placing those orders goes a long way towards keeping our little operation up and running. 

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.   The #1 film of 1987 Beverly Hills Cop II produced by Don Simpson and Jerry Bruckheimer and directed by Tony Scott will celebrate its 35th anniversary with a 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray on May 17.

From the director of TOP GUN, this sizzling, smash-hit sequel to the original blockbuster looks better than ever before in stunning 4K UHD. Axel Foley (Eddie Murphy) is back where he doesn't belong, this time going "deep, deep, deep undercover" to stop a gang of international munitions smugglers. Also returning are Judge Reinhold and John Ashton as Murphy's crime-busting sidekicks, ready to unleash blazing gunfire alongside rapid-fire gags.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray edition does not appear to include Dolby Atmos but will have HDR-10 & Dolby Vision. The SRP is $25.99.

Beverly Hills Cop II - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray
 

Order your copy now and here is the full press release:

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THE SMASH-HIT SEQUEL TO THE ORIGINAL BLOCKBUSTER

CELEBRATES ITS 35^TH ANNIVERSARY ON 4K ULTRA HD BLU-RAY^™

Eddie Murphy returns in the wildly entertaining action-comedy BEVERLY HILLS COP II, arriving on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray May 17, 2022 from Paramount Home Entertainment.

Directed by Tony Scott, who followed up Top Gun with this highly anticipated sequel, BEVERLY HILLS COP II celebrates its 35^th anniversary this year, having been originally released on May 20, 1987.  Produced by Don Simpson and Jerry Bruckheimer, BEVERLY HILLS COP II was a massive box office success, earning over $153 million domestically and becoming the #1 film of 1987.  The movie also earned Academy Award® and Golden Globe nominations for Best Original Song for “Shakedown.”

Axel Foley (Eddie Murphy) is back where he doesn't belong, this time going "deep, deep, deep undercover" to stop a gang of international munitions smugglers. Also returning are Judge Reinhold and John Ashton as Murphy's crime-busting sidekicks, ready to unleash blazing gunfire alongside rapid-fire gags.

BEVERLY HILLS COP II is presented with exceptional picture and sound quality on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray with Dolby Vision® and HDR-10 and Dolby 5.1 DTS Master Audio.^*

BEVERLY HILLS COP II

Street Date:         May 17, 2022

U.S. Rating:          R

HDR:                     HDR-10 & Dolby Vision®

Aspect Ratio:       2.35:1

Sound:                  Dolby 5.1 DTS Master Audio

 

 

* To experience Dolby Vision at home, compatible devices are required; 4K Ultra HD and Dolby Vision are available at select digital retailers.

 

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Tom Holland and Mark Wahlberg try their hands at video games with Uncharted with Antonio Banderas hot on their heels in Sony's Digital release on April 26 and on Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray on May 10.

Read our theatrical review.   

SYNOPSIS: Street-smart thief Nathan Drake (Tom Holland) is recruited by seasoned treasure hunter Victor “Sully” Sullivan (Mark Wahlberg) to recover a fortune lost by Ferdinand Magellan 500 years ago. What starts as a heist job for the duo becomes a globe-trotting, white-knuckle race to reach the prize before the ruthless Moncada (Antonio Banderas), who believes he and his family are the rightful heirs. If Nate and Sully can decipher the clues and solve one of the world’s oldest mysteries, they stand to find $5 billion in treasure and perhaps even Nate’s long-lost brother...but only if they can learn to work together.

Uncharted - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray

Uncharted - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray (SteelBook)
 

 Uncharted will also be available on Blu-ray and both editions will present the film in 2.39:1 aspect ratio and will have an hour of bonus features including a commentary, deleted and extended scenes, and behind-the-scenes featurettes.

Uncharted - Blu-ray
 

As usual, only the 4K UHD includes a Dolby Atmos soundtrack. Here's the full press release:

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AVAILABLE ON DIGITAL APRIL 26
ON 4K ULTRA HD™, BLU-RAY™ and DVD MAY 10
 
DISCOVER AN HOUR OF BONUS FEATURES INCLUDING DELETED AND EXTENDED SCENES, MAKING OF THE AMAZING ACTION, DIRECTOR AUDIO COMMENTARY, PLUS MORE WITH THE CAST!

SYNOPSIS Street-smart thief Nathan Drake (Tom Holland) is recruited by seasoned treasure hunter Victor “Sully” Sullivan (Mark Wahlberg) to recover a fortune lost by Ferdinand Magellan 500 years ago. What starts as a heist job for the duo becomes a globe-trotting, white-knuckle race to reach the prize before the ruthless Moncada (Antonio Banderas), who believes he and his family are the rightful heirs. If Nate and Sully can decipher the clues and solve one of the world’s oldest mysteries, they stand to find $5 billion in treasure and perhaps even Nate’s long-lost brother...but only if they can learn to work together.

 

BONUS MATERIALS 4K ULTRA HD, BLU-RAY and DIGITAL Deleted and Extended Scenes Behind the Scenes Featurettes Becoming Nathan Drake Big Action Breakdown: C-17 Globemaster Charting the Course: On Set with Ruben Fleischer Never a Dull Moment: Stunts & Action The Buddy System Villains, Backstabbers & Accomplices Commentary with Director Ruben Fleischer DVD The Buddy System   CAST AND CREW Directed By: Ruben Fleischer Produced By: Charles Roven, Avi Arad, Alex Gartner, Ari Arad Screenplay By:  Rafe Lee Judkins and Art Marcum & Matt Holloway Executive Producers: Ruben Fleischer, Robert J. Dohrmann, David Bernad, Tom Holland, Asad Qizilbash, Carter Swan, Neil Druckmann, Evan Wells, Art Marcum, Matt Holloway Cast: Tom Holland, Mark Wahlberg, Sophia Ali, Tati Gabrielle, Antonio Banderas   SPECS Run Time: Approx. 116 mins. Rating:  PG-13 for violence/action and language 4K Ultra HD™: 2160p Ultra High Definition 2.39:1 | Audio: English Dolby Atmos (Dolby TrueHD 7.1 compatible) / French 5.1 DTS-HD MA, Spanish, English Audio Description 5.1 Dolby Digital Blu-ray™: 1080p High Definition 2.39:1 | Audio: English, French 5.1 DTS-HD MA, Spanish, English – Audio Description Track 5.1 Dolby Digital DVD: 2.39:1 Anamorphic Widescreen | Audio: English, French, Spanish, English Audio Description 5.1 Dolby Digital   FOR MORE INFORMATION Twitter: @unchartedmovie Instagram: @unchartedmovie Facebook: facebook.com/unchartedmovie YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/sonypictures

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• The fully restored Star Trek: The Motion Picture -- The Director's Edition arrives on streaming in 4K exclusively on Paramount+ to celebrate First Contact Day
• A 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Release is Expected this September 2022
• Sign up for Paramount+ - Plans Start at $4.99 per month.

Fans who picked up the Star Trek 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray set last year have a new reason to celebrate. Robert Wise's Director's Edition is coming to 4K after an exhaustive restoration effort. It was because of this restoration effort that this version of the film wasn't included with that 4K set. This 4K UHD with Dolby Vision HDR presentation will premier on Paramount+ April 5th - First Contact Day.

Not only that, fans will be able to experience the restored extended edition on the big screen for the first time when it arrives in theaters for an exclusive two-day event on May 22 and May 25 courtesy of Fathom Events and Paramount Pictures. Tickets will go on sale Friday, April 8 at FathomEvents.com.

Star Trek: The Motion Picture was originally released in 1979 and received three Oscar nominations: for Best Visual Effects, Best Art Direction, and Best Music, Original Score -- even though the movie was rushed to cineplexes with incomplete visual effects and poor editing.

Director Robert Wise refined both the editing and special effects in 2001 and the updated The Director's Edition was only released in standard definition on DVD. And now, after being painstakingly restored and remastered for over six months by Wise's original collaborators -- producer David C. Fein with preservationist Mike Matessino and a team of SFX experts including visual effects supervisor Daren Dochterman -- the film hops over HD into full-fledged Ultra HD.

"I couldn’t be prouder and more thrilled to have completed the film in 4K,” said Fein. “Paramount offered unprecedented access to the original elements and exceptional support and the results are stunning. Utilizing the latest discoveries and innovations of modern film production, The Director’s Edition delivers so much more today than was previously possible. It’s an adventure you’ll never forget!”

Star Trek: The Motion Picture -- The Director's Edition Synopsis: The U.S.S. Enterprise boldly debuted on the big screen with the cast of the original Star Trek series, including William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, DeForest Kelley, George Takei, Nichelle Nichols, Walter Koenig, and James Doohan. Meticulously restored and remastered, with enhanced visual effects and state-of-the-art sound, this definitive vision of director Robert Wise has been optimized for a new generation of fans. When an unidentified alien intruder destroys three powerful Klingon cruisers, Admiral James T. Kirk (Shatner) returns to the helm of a newly transformed U.S.S. Enterprise to take command and confront an alien spacecraft of enormous power heading toward Earth.

Star Trek: The Motion Picture -- The Director's Edition - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray
 

Star Trek The Motion Picture Director's Edition will first appear on Paramount+ before coming to disc. Plans for Paramount+ Start at $4.99 per month with ads, or 9.99 per month without ads (except for live television) and additional perks including downloading content to a smartphone or portable device. Pick Your Plan Here. The 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray will be available for sale in September and the physical and digital releases will include HDR10 and Dolby Vision with a Dolby Atmos soundtrack. Bonus materials will be detailed at a later date.  Here is the full press release:

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LOS ANGELES, Calif. – March 24, 2022 – Eagerly anticipated by Star Trek fans for over two decades, Star Trek: The Motion Picture—The Director’s Edition will make its long-awaited debut exclusively on Paramount+ on April 5, 2022, in celebration of First Contact Day.  The film will be available to stream on Paramount+ in 4K Ultra HD on supported devices and platforms.  The newly restored film will subsequently arrive on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray in September from Paramount Home Entertainment.  In addition, fans will have the opportunity to see the restored version of Star Trek: The Motion Picture—The Director’s Edition on the big screen for the first time when Fathom Events and Paramount Pictures bring it to theaters for an exclusive two-day event on May 22 and May 25.  Tickets will go on sale Friday, April 8 at FathomEvents.com.

Originally released in 1979, Star Trek: The Motion Picture became the fourth highest-grossing movie of the year and earned three Academy Award® nominations for Best Visual Effects, Best Art Direction, and Best Music, Original Score.  The film successfully launched the Star Trek franchise beyond the original television series, despite having been rushed to theaters with incomplete special effects and forced editing choices. 

In 2001, director Robert Wise revisited the film to refine the edit and enhance the visual effects.  His updated vision was released on DVD in standard definition and embraced by fans but has never been available in higher definition until now.  Meticulously assembled and restored by producer David C. Fein with preservationist Mike Matessino, both of whom originally collaborated with Wise, the film has been prepared for presentation in 4K Ultra HD with Dolby Vision™ high dynamic range (HDR) and a new powerful and immersive Dolby Atmos® soundtrack.^*  Fein and Matessino assembled a team of special effects experts, led by returning visual effects supervisor Daren Dochterman, and utilized the extensive resources in the Paramount Archives to recreate the effects not just in HD, but in Ultra HD.  After more than six months of painstaking work, the updated movie looks and sounds better than ever while staying true to Wise’s original intention.

 

“I couldn’t be prouder and more thrilled to have completed the film in 4K,” said Fein.  “Paramount offered unprecedented access to the original elements and exceptional support and the results are stunning.  Utilizing the latest discoveries and innovations of modern film production, The Director’s Edition delivers so much more today than was previously possible.  It’s an adventure you’ll never forget!”

 

Star Trek: The Motion Picture—The Director’s Edition Synopsis

The U.S.S. Enterprise boldly debuted on the big screen with the cast of the original Star Trek series, including William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, DeForest Kelley, George Takei, Nichelle Nichols, Walter Koenig, and James Doohan.  Meticulously restored and remastered, with enhanced visual effects and state-of-the-art sound, this definitive vision of director Robert Wise has been optimized for a new generation of fans. When an unidentified alien intruder destroys three powerful Klingon cruisers, Admiral James T. Kirk (Shatner) returns to the helm of a newly transformed U.S.S. Enterprise to take command and confront an alien spacecraft of enormous power heading toward Earth.

The Star Trek: The Motion Picture—The Director’s Edition 4K Ultra HD Disc and Digital releases will include HDR-10 and Dolby Vision,™ as well as Dolby Atmos®, accompanied by extensive new and legacy bonus content, which will be detailed at a later date. 

#  #  #

About Paramount+

Paramount+, a direct-to-consumer digital subscription video on-demand and live streaming service, combines live sports, breaking news and a mountain of entertainment. The premium streaming service features an expansive library of original series, hit shows and popular movies across every genre from world-renowned brands and production studios, including BET, CBS, Comedy Central, MTV, Nickelodeon, Paramount Pictures and the Smithsonian Channel. The service is also the streaming home to unmatched sports programming, including every CBS Sports event, from golf to football to basketball and more, plus exclusive streaming rights for major sports properties, including some of the world’s biggest and most popular soccer leagues. Paramount+ also enables subscribers to stream local CBS stations live across the U.S. in addition to the ability to stream CBSN for 24/7 news, CBS Sports HQ for sports news and analysis, and ET Live for entertainment coverage.

For more information about Paramount+, please visit www.paramountplus.com and follow @ParamountPlus on social platforms.

About Paramount Home Entertainment

Paramount Home Entertainment (PHE) is part of Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment.  PPC is a unit of Paramount (NASDAQ: PARA, PARAA), a leading global media and entertainment company that creates premium content and experiences for audiences worldwide.  The PHE division oversees PPC’s home entertainment and transactional digital distribution activities worldwide. The division is responsible for the sales, marketing and distribution of home entertainment content on behalf of Paramount Pictures, Paramount Animation, Paramount Television Studios, Paramount Players, MTV, Nickelodeon, Comedy Central and CBS and applicable licensing and servicing of certain DreamWorks Animation titles.  PHE additionally manages global licensing of studio content and transactional distribution across worldwide digital distribution platforms including online, mobile and portable devices and emerging technologies.

 

About Fathom Events

Fathom is a recognized leader in the entertainment industry as one of the top distributors of content to movie theaters in North America. Owned by AMC Entertainment Inc. (NYSE: AMC); Cinemark Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CNK); and Regal, a subsidiary of the Cineworld Group (LSE: CINE.L), Fathom operates the largest cinema distribution network, delivering a wide variety of programming and experiences to cinema audiences in all the top U.S. markets and to more than 45 countries.

 

STAR TREK: THE MOTION PICTURE—The Director’s Edition U.S. Rating:  PG for sci-fi action and mild language

Star Trek: The Motion Picture—The Director’s Edition 4K Ultra HD Disc and Digital releases will include HDR-10 and Dolby Vision,™ as well as Dolby Atmos®, accompanied by extensive new and legacy bonus content, which will be detailed at a later date. 

#  #  #

About Paramount+

Paramount+, a direct-to-consumer digital subscription video on-demand and live streaming service, combines live sports, breaking news and a mountain of entertainment. The premium streaming service features an expansive library of original series, hit shows and popular movies across every genre from world-renowned brands and production studios, including BET, CBS, Comedy Central, MTV, Nickelodeon, Paramount Pictures and the Smithsonian Channel. The service is also the streaming home to unmatched sports programming, including every CBS Sports event, from golf to football to basketball and more, plus exclusive streaming rights for major sports properties, including some of the world’s biggest and most popular soccer leagues. Paramount+ also enables subscribers to stream local CBS stations live across the U.S. in addition to the ability to stream CBSN for 24/7 news, CBS Sports HQ for sports news and analysis, and ET Live for entertainment coverage.

For more information about Paramount+, please visit www.paramountplus.com and follow @ParamountPlus on social platforms.

About Paramount Home Entertainment

Paramount Home Entertainment (PHE) is part of Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment.  PPC is a unit of Paramount (NASDAQ: PARA, PARAA), a leading global media and entertainment company that creates premium content and experiences for audiences worldwide.  The PHE division oversees PPC’s home entertainment and transactional digital distribution activities worldwide. The division is responsible for the sales, marketing and distribution of home entertainment content on behalf of Paramount Pictures, Paramount Animation, Paramount Television Studios, Paramount Players, MTV, Nickelodeon, Comedy Central and CBS and applicable licensing and servicing of certain DreamWorks Animation titles.  PHE additionally manages global licensing of studio content and transactional distribution across worldwide digital distribution platforms including online, mobile and portable devices and emerging technologies.

 

About Fathom Events

Fathom is a recognized leader in the entertainment industry as one of the top distributors of content to movie theaters in North America. Owned by AMC Entertainment Inc. (NYSE: AMC); Cinemark Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CNK); and Regal, a subsidiary of the Cineworld Group (LSE: CINE.L), Fathom operates the largest cinema distribution network, delivering a wide variety of programming and experiences to cinema audiences in all the top U.S. markets and to more than 45 countries.

 

STAR TREK: THE MOTION PICTURE—The Director’s Edition U.S. Rating:  PG for sci-fi action and mild language

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What, did you think the studios and boutique labels would take the month off just because we had a stacked February with an intensely busy April and May release frame coming?  

Considering everything that's coming our way in the next few months, the one good thing we can say is that March is relatively light. There are some great catalog titles coming along with a few new releases with quite a few long-awaited favorites. We get a mix of new and old. Werewolves and Keanu Reeves. Italian Mobsters and Russian Mobsters. And while this month might be on the light side, doesn't mean it'll be cheap! With that - let's get into it:

High-Def Digest's March 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Shopping Guide 

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March 1st, 2022 - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Releases 

Just because it's Fat Tuesday doesn't mean the month has a lot to indulge in. In fact, there's only one release and it's a repackage of discs that are already available. 

James Bond: The Daniel Craig 5-Film Collection - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

 

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March 8th, 2022 - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Releases 

Things pick up a little bit this month with a return to The Matrix leading the pack with Downton Abbey getting an upgrade just before the second film hits theaters, and another Argento film slips onto 2160p. 

The Matrix Resurrections - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

The Matrix Resurrections - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray SteelBook  

 

The Matrix 4-Film Deja Vu Collection - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

Phenomena - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Limited Edition  

 

Downton Abbey: The Motion Picture - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

Downton Abbey: The Motion Picture - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray SteelBook 

 

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March 15th, 2022 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Releases

Well, of all the days for the knives to come out for your wallet - this is historically fitting! Between multiple classics reaching 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray thanks to KLSC, Criterion, Arrow, and Scream Factory all have new releases on top of Paramount dropping a couple with Disney/20th Century Studios doing a full-court press for Spielberg's latest Oscar contender. 

West Side Story (2021) - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

West Side Story (2021) - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray SteelBook  

 

West Side Story (2021) - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Target Exclusive  

 

West Side Story (2021) - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Walmart Exclusive  

 

Touch of Evil - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

The Apartment - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

An American Werewolf In London - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Limited Edition  

 

The Amazing Spider-Man Collection - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

Le Cercle Rouge - Criterion Collection 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

The Sword and the Sorcerer - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

Shooter - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray SteelBook  

 

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March, 22 2022 - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Releases

There is just nothing good coming out this month. Nope. Not a thing. 

The Godfather Trilogy - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

The Godfather Trilogy - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Collector’s Edition 

 

Nightmare Alley - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

Nightmare Alley - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray SteelBook 

 

Fatale - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

Eastern Promises - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

The Hunger Games: Ultimate SteelBook Collection - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

 

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March 29th, 2022 - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray 

And as quietly as March started, it goes out on a pretty soft note. But between a legendary concert film and a popular kid's flick, there's still some good stuff worth checking out. 

Sing 2 - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

The Last Waltz - Criterion Collection 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray  

 

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And that just about does it. As always, release dates can change and if that happens we'll update our listings and this article as soon as we can. Scouring around the international releases, the only notable title we'll be covering is The Texas Chain Saw Massacre 4K SteelBook from Turbine Media Group - but that doesn't street until the end of the month and customs can be a little dodgy delaying delivery, so we'll get to it when we can as soon as we can. 

Once again - thank you for your pre-orders. They really do go a long way towards keeping our little corner of the interwebs alive and going. 

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Thanks to Amazon, horror and sci-fi fans got to take an early gander at Scream Factory's thus far unofficially announced May 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray lineup!

While Scream Factory has yet to comment - and we expect them to formally announce soon enough - Amazon has listings for new 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Collector's Editions ofJohn Carpenter's Escape From New York, Bernard Rose's Candyman, Andrew Fleming's The Craft, and Tobe Hooper's Lifeforce.

I'm not at all surprised with the Candyman news - after Friday's spur of Arrow and Turbine Media Group announcements for the title, it's a no-brainer that Scream Factory is dropping theirs nearly the same time. Escape From New York was already released in the E.U. markets by Studio Canal so that's more of a question of a "when" and not an "if" Scream would update their release. But the welcome surprises on this list is Tobe Hooper's nutso sci-fi horror flick Lifeforce and The Craft. 

Lifeforce was a title I'd heard grumblings about a 4K release for a couple of years now so it's nice to see a rumor become a reality. Of the four listings, Lifeforce and The Craft are the only ones actually up for pre-order albeit at the egregiously high not-yet-on-sale price point. Now we don't have final specs for any of these as of yet, but with everything breaking so quickly, expect final details in the next day or two and when they come in we'll update this article and our listings accordingly.  

[UPDATE] 

Scream Factory is now posting up the official announcements for each of these. As they come in, we'll be updating each title with the full list of specs and bonus features if listed. 

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John Carpenter's Escape From New York - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Collector's Edition 

 

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Candyman - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Collector's Edition 

 

DISC ONE (4K UHD — THEATRICAL & UNRATED CUTS)

• NEW 4K Master Of The Original Negative, Supervised And Approved By Writer/Director Bernard Rose And Director Of Photography Anthony B. Richmond (Theatrical Cut) By Arrow Video
• NEW 4K UHD Presentation In Dolby Vision (HDR10 Compatible) Of Both Cuts Of The Film, The Theatrical R-rated Version And The Unrated Version Featuring Alternate, More Graphic Footage, Presented Via Seamless Branching
• NEW Dolby Atmos Track
• NEW Interview With Actress Vanessa Williams

DISC TWO (BLU-RAY — THEATRICAL CUT)

• NEW 4K Master Of The Original Negative, Supervised And Approved By Writer/Director Bernard Rose And Director Of Photography Anthony B. Richmond By Arrow Video
• NEW Dolby Atmos Track
• NEW Interview With Actress Vanessa Williams

DISC THREE (BLU-RAY — UNRATED CUT)

• NEW 4K Master Of The Original Negative With HD Inserts For The Uncut Footage From An Archival Film Print By Arrow Video
• NEW Dolby Atmos Track

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Lifeforce - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Collector's Edition 

 

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The Craft - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Collector's Edition 

 

DISC ONE (4K UHD):

• NEW 4K Restoration By Sony
• Audio Commentary With Director Andrew Fleming

DISC TWO (BLU-RAY):

• NEW 4K Restoration By Sony
• Audio Commentary With Andrew Fleming
• Directing The Craft – An Interview With Andrew Fleming
• Producing The Craft – An Interview With Producer Douglas Wick
• Writing The Craft – An Interview With Co-Writer Peter Filardi
• Effecting The Craft – An Interview With Makeup Effects Supervisor Tony Gardner
• Vintage Featurette – Conjuring The Craft
• Vintage Featurette – The Making Of The Craft
• Deleted Scenes With Optional Audio Commentary By Andrew Fleming
• Theatrical Trailer

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And with that, that is all the news that's fit to print, for the moment. Obviously, this is a developing story so as details come in we'll be updating listings and informing you cool kids about all the happenings and goings-on round these here parts. 

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