A few words about...™ Blade Runner -- in HD & BD - Page 3

bosque · 12-20-2007, 06:14 AM

As great as the hi-definition release looks, it says something about the very high quality DVD has achieved that the new DVD release of Blade Runner is very close to the HD version. I compared the 2006 DVD to the HD-DVD and was blown away by the superior contrast, blacks and colours in hi-definition, though comparing it with the new DVD of the Final Cut that superiority is nothing like as marked. So those who have not yet taken the plunge into hi-definition and bought the new DVD shouldn't feel too upset about the video quality of one of the best films of the 20th Century.

Carlo Medina · 12-20-2007, 01:29 PM

I made it through about an hour and a half of Dangerous Days [it was a work night] and let me just say this:

Charlie D. you have outdone just about every other "bonus feature" I've seen on DVD/BD.

I remember back in 1998 when special features started to come out on DVD and I was as enthralled as everyone else. Over the years though it became clear that not all extras were created equal, and some...okay most...were hardly worth watching and/or listening to (check out Arnold's "commentary" on Conan).

Well Dangerous Days had me every bit as enthralled as the movie itself. This alone has made the purchase of this set worth it. And I got a pretty sweet Final Cut of one of my favorite movies in the process.

Dangerous Days is a prime example of what can happen when talent meets passion, and is a must-watch bonus feature for anyone who cares about the history and making of Blade Runner. It is equal parts history lesson, exposé, film school in a can, and just plain fun viewing. Very highly recommended!

Robert Harris · 12-20-2007, 02:12 PM

The DNA of Special Features is found back with The Criterion Collection and the wonderful days of the laserdisc.

Charles de Lauzirika · 12-20-2007, 03:47 PM

Very true. For me, Criterion will always be the gold standard. They are the true pioneers in this field and their uniformly stellar work continues to educate and inspire.

Having said that, I'm thrilled Carlo and others are enjoying the various "Blade Runner" sets. It was a long and winding road to be sure, but has ended up as the most satisfying experience of my career.

There are actually several other interesting behind-the-behind-the-scenes stories about "Blade Runner's" path over the last several years, and the various discoveries and attempts at restoration that have yet to be told. It's not quite an epic tale of heroes and villains...but there are plenty of twists and some nice helpings of piping hot intrigue.

Someday, perhaps...

Rachael B · 12-20-2007, 04:04 PM

My set came in the Post today, The packaging sure is wank-y. 3 of the 5 discs were loose.....the fates were kind to me though, no scratches of the highly visable nature after a good wipe.

Jrf2 · 12-20-2007, 04:09 PM

After being told my Hastings had only received one Blu copy and no HD DVD, I actually stopped by later and they had two HD DVD copies and no Blu copies. I've gotten through the Final Cut and Dangerous Days. This is the release of the year!!!

Charlie, if Blade Runner is Ridley's masterpiece, then this Final Cut DVD is yours.

Robert, now if only Vertigo on HD would get here!

ErichH · 12-20-2007, 05:56 PM

Bravo Charles! - Bravi to the project!

Douglas Monce · 12-21-2007, 01:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Charles de Lauzirika

Very true. For me, Criterion will always be the gold standard. They are the true pioneers in this field and their uniformly stellar work continues to educate and inspire.

Having said that, I'm thrilled Carlo and others are enjoying the various "Blade Runner" sets. It was a long and winding road to be sure, but has ended up as the most satisfying experience of my career.

There are actually several other interesting behind-the-behind-the-scenes stories about "Blade Runner's" path over the last several years, and the various discoveries and attempts at restoration that have yet to be told. It's not quite an epic tale of heroes and villains...but there are plenty of twists and some nice helpings of piping hot intrigue.

Someday, perhaps...

Charles,

Thanks for dropping in. I must say the Blade Runner set has truly set a high water mark for all future releases. And Dangerous Days is fantastic. I had no idea it was over 3 hours until I glanced at the time on the player.

Great work!

Doug

Jeff Gatie · 12-21-2007, 01:38 PM

OH MY GOD!!!

Just about the best thing I've ever seen. Watched the original US release and some of the extras last night and this is what all HDM (HD DVD for me) should be. Amazing job by all, and I can't wait to see the other versions. It's stunning that a 25 year old film can look this freaking good.

As an aside, I just know they substitiuted the original voiceovers for some almost dead, monotone Harrison Ford sound alike. I was one who loved the voiceovers in the original and used to pine for something other than the Director's Cut on DVD. Since years of listening to the fact that they were studio add-ons and hearing Ford and others bash the voiceovers could never ever make me rethink my 25 year old razor sharp memories, I smell a conspiracy!!!

BTW, I also saw "To Be Continued . . ." at the end of the first run of Back to the Future.

Keith Paynter · 12-21-2007, 01:40 PM

I second that, Charles! While I have purchased the SD briefcase, I thnk the less expensive BD 5-disc set will be the item that will finally put me in the High Definition camp and make me buy a player.

Congratulations Charles (et al) on a definitive Blade Runner!

Dave Moritz · 12-21-2007, 08:03 PM

Quote:

OH MY GOD!!!

Just about the best thing I've ever seen. Watched the original US release and some of the extras last night and this is what all HDM (HD DVD for me) should be. Amazing job by all, and I can't wait to see the other versions. It's stunning that a 25 year old film can look this freaking good.

I picked up Blade Runner today on Blu-ray and all I can say after watching disc one (Final Edition), is WOW!!

Not only is the picture prestine but so is the Dolby True HD track. I have never seen this movie look so good on home video. The VHS release was horible and if I remember correctly the DVD release was not that great ether. But the HD release surpased all exspectations as it looks stunning, what HD is all about! I would highly recomend this title in HD as it is now a very welcome title in my HD library.