Wes Anderson's long-awaited The French Dispatch will go to press on Blu-ray December 28th, 2021
Originally set to release in theaters in July 2020, Wes Anderson's latest tribute to inventively whimsical filmmaking and the power of the press - The French Dispatch was pushed back over a year thanks to the ongoing COVID pandemic. Now after a respectable theatrical outing, you'll be able to bring it home to Blu-ray in a single disc Blu-ray + Digital set as a bonus Christmas gift to yourself on December 28th, 2021.
Now for those hoping for the first Wes Anderson film to come to 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray, well, we'll just have to wait and see what the very likely Criterion Collection release will bring us. The press release was pretty barebones, just a synopsis, cast breakdown, and your basic tech specs - this one will hit with DTS-HD MA 5.1 audio. No mention of any bonus features. But again, that's par for the course with Wes Anderson Blu-ray releases. Ever since The Fantastic Mr. Fox, there's been a basic studio-released near-barebones release and then eventually followed by a much more elaborate and interesting Criterion Collection release. So if you're a super Wes Anderson fan you should be used to picking up each release at least twice - more if you've ever upgraded from DVD.
Here's the press release if you're interested:
“A LOVELY VALENTINE TO THE ADVENTUROUS EDITORS OF SOPHISTICATED LITERARY MAGAZINES, BURSTING AT THE SEAMS WITH HAND-CRAFTED VISUAL DELIGHTS. AUDIENCES WILL MARVEL AT ITS RICHLY IMAGINED WORLD.”
– David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter
Wes Anderson’s The French Dispatch Releases on Digital December 14
and Blu-ray™ and DVD on December 28
LOS ANGELES, CA (November 9, 2021) – Academy Award® nominee* and visionary filmmaker Wes Anderson presents his 10th film, The French Dispatch. An homage to literary journalism, French culture and classic cinema the film is praised by critics and audiences alike for its exquisite visuals, captivating performances and unique artistry. Add The French Dispatch to your collection on Digital December 14 and on Blu-ray and DVD December 28.
Film Synopsis
Wes Anderson’s The French Dispatch brings to life a collection of stories from the final issue of an American magazine published in the fictional 20th-century French city of Ennui-sur-Blasé. With an all-star cast that includes Benicio Del Toro, Adrien Brody, Tilda Swinton, Léa Seydoux, Frances McDormand, Timothée Chalamet, Lyna Khoudri, Jeffrey Wright, Mathieu Amalric, Stephen Park, Bill Murray and Owen Wilson, this vibrant film is a funny, moving celebration of journalism.
Cast
Benicio Del Toro as Moses Rosenthaler
Adrien Brody as Julian Cadazio
Tilda Swinton as J.K.L. Berensen
Léa Seydoux as Simone
Frances McDormand as Lucina Krementz
Timothée Chalamet as Zeffirelli
Lyna Khoudri as Juliette
Jeffrey Wright as Roebuck Wright
Mathieu Amalric as The Comissaire
Stephen Park as Nescaffier (as Stephen Park)
Bill Murray as Arthur Howitzer, Jr.
Owen Wilson as Herbsaint Sazerac
Christoph Waltz as Paul Duval
Edward Norton as The Chauffeur
Jason Schwartzman as Hermès Jones
Anjelica Huston as Narrator (voice)
Directed by
Wes Anderson
Produced by
Wes Anderson
Steven Rales
Jeremy Dawson
Executive Producers
Roman Coppola
Henning Molfenter
Christoph Fisser
and Charlie Woebcken
Screenplay by
Wes Anderson
Story by
Wes Anderson
& Roman Coppola
& Hugo Guinness
& Jason Schwartzman
Music by
Alexandre Desplat
Product Specifications
Street Date
Digital: December 14
Physical: December 28
Product SKUs
Digital: 4K SDR, HD, SD
Physical: Blu-ray Combo Pack (Blu-ray + Digital Code) & DVD
Feature Run Time
Approx. 108 minutes
Rating
U.S. Rated R
*Rated R for graphic nudity, some sexual references and language.
Aspect Ratio
Digital: 1.85:1
Physical: 1.85:1
U.S. Audio
Blu-ray: English 5.1 DTS-HDMA, French 5.1 Dolby Digital, English AD 2.0 Dolby Digital
DVD: English 5.1 Dolby, French 5.1 Dolby, English AD 2.0 Dolby
Digital: English 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
Blu-ray: English SDH, Spanish, French
DVD: English SDH, Spanish, French
Digital: English SDH, French, Spanish (some platforms)
Ridley Scott's latest medieval epic The Last Duel starring Matt Damon, Jodie Comer, Adam Driver, and Ben Affleck comes home to Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray on December 14th.
Much like every other Ridley Scott-directed medieval sword and armor film, The Last Duel failed to gain much of a following at the box office. While a hit with critics, few people braved the theater to see this film about a woman whose husband challenges her attacker to a duel to the death to restore her honor. I tried to see it myself, but it lasted at my local theater for all of a week. Even without a huge box office offering, it's nice to see Disney/Fox Studios giving this film a full 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray release with Dolby Atmos audio.
The Last Duel - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray
Obviously, The Last Duel is also coming out on Blu-ray, but Disney didn't send along the cover art for that set. I imagine it'll look pretty much the same. Also, there's no word as of yet about any kind of retailer exclusive packaging or SteelBook option. We're pretty sure Disney will keep to their usual pattern and offer the disc in HDR10 with the 4K streaming picking up Dolby Vision. The 4K disc will offer Atmos audio while the 1080p disc will only be equipped with a DTS-HD MA 7.1 mix. Bonus features are pretty light, amounting to all of a single featurette. Who wants to bet since this is a Ridley Scott film there will be a Director's Cut edition with more elaborate bonus features? That said, I do hope Disney/Fox has Kingdom of Heaven lined up for a 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray release.
As of now neither the Blu-ray or 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray are up for pre-order, but as soon as they are we'll update our listings ASAP.
Here's the full press release:
“INTELLIGENT AND GENUINELY DARING”
– Ben Croll, IndieWire
20th Century Studios’ The Last Duel Arrives on Digital November 30
and on 4K Ultra HD™, Blu-ray™ and DVD December 14
LOS ANGELES, CA (November 8, 2021) – 20th Century Studios’ historical epic, The Last Duel, unravels the true story about France’s last sanctioned duel. Directed by the critically acclaimed Ridley Scott, the film stars Jodie Comer and Adam Driver as well as Academy Award® winners Matt Damon and Ben Affleck. Certified-Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes™, The Last Duel will be available on Digital November 30 and on 4K UHD, Blu-ray and DVD December 14.
Film Synopsis
Jodie Comer is spellbinding in this tale of betrayal and vengeance set in 14th century France from visionary filmmaker Ridley Scott. Based on actual events, the film stars Matt Damon and Adam Driver as friends Jean de Carrouges and Jacques Le Gris, two knights who must fight to the death after de Carrouges’s wife (Comer) accuses Le Gris of assault.
20th Century Studios’ The Last Duel Bonus Features*
*bonus features vary by product and retailer
Cast
Matt Damon as Sir Jean de Carrouges
Adam Driver as Jacques Le Gris
Jodie Comer as Marguerite de Carrouges
Ben Affleck as Pierre d'Alençon
Directed by
Ridley Scott
Produced by
Ridley Scott, p.g.a
Kevin J. Walsh, p.g.a
Jennifer Fox, p.g.a
Nicole Holofcener, p.g.a
Matt Damon, p.g.a
Ben Affleck, p.g.a
Executive Producers
Madison Ainley
Kevin Halloran
Drew Vinton
Screenplay by
Nicole Holofcener
& Ben Affleck
& Matt Damon
Music by
Harry Gregson-Williams
Based upon the book by
Eric Jager
20th Century Studios’ The Last Duel Product Specifications
Street Date
Digital: November 30
Physical: December 14
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. 153 mins
Rating
U.S. Rated R
Bonus material not rated
Screen Format
Digital: 2.39
Physical: 2.39:1
U.S. Audio
4K Ultra HD: English 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos, Spanish 7.1 Dolby Digital Plus, French 5.1 Dolby Digital, English AD 2.0 Dolby Digital
Blu-ray: English 7.1 DTS-HDMA, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital, French 5.1 Dolby Digital, English AD 2.0 Dolby Digital
DVD: English 5.1 Dolby, Spanish 5.1 Dolby, French 5.1 Dolby, English AD 2.0 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)
For starters, did you remember to 'fall back' with your clocks if you are subject to this torture?
As we inch closer towards 'the holidays' I can't help but notice the retailers are already starting early to get us hooked in on their deals. Walmart's second event which is November 9th will offer some 4K titles in addition to blu-rays. Target again has a Buy 2 Get 1 free event this week after doing it a couple of weeks ago. Amazon and Best Buy are offering Black Friday prices on many releases from the past year or two. A lot of choices indeed.
I did receive a handsome StudioCanal region B import from Amazon of Hayao Miyazaki's Spirited Away. This set weighs just over 6 pounds and the pictures online do not do it justice.
Welcome to Volume 2 Episode 25 of our weekly release guide. A look at the highlights of what's coming to disc this week, as well as a look at announcements from last week.
4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Releases-
Another slow(ish) week for 4K discs.
From Warner Bros there are three titles, Batman: Year One, The Outsiders: The Complete Novel and Reminiscence.
Everything else that was supposed to release this week in 4K has been delayed two weeks, no doubt supply chain related.
The Ten Commandments SteelBook, The Addams Family and The Hills Have Eyes.
Blu-ray releases-
An average volume week for blu-rays, let's get right to it.
Paramount delivers Evolution to go with my Shout! Factory release of Eight-Legged Freaks I got a few weeks ago. When I had the DVDs they were a matched set then.
Universal Pictures just added Beethoven's Christmas Adventure to the schedule, likely an 'MOD' disc (similar to Warner Archive titles.) The 2021 Aretha Franklin biography Respect debuts on disc this week.
LionsGate releases A Gift from Bob. Also from LionsGate, L.A. Story starring Steve Martin.
Warner Bros brings us DC's Legends of Tomorrow: The Complete Sixth Season, Reminiscence and Snowpiercer: The Complete Second Season. Their answer to Respect this week is Tina, a biography about Tina Turner.
Under the Warner Archive label it's another above average week with Fury (1936), Ladies They Talk About and The Last of Sheila.
Slow week for Anime highlights, look for One Piece: Season Eleven - Voyage Five and Redo of Healer: Complete Collection. The Neon Genesis Evangelion - Standard Edition comes out via Shout! Factory/GKIDS this week while the deluxe edition comes on December 7th.
Honorable Mention: PBS, after several delays appears to be on target this week for Ken Burns: Muhammad Ali to hit Blu-ray.
Lots of various music and arts releases Friday:
Notable announcements from last week:
88 Films is doing single releases to some of the films in Arrow Video's (currently on target for December 14th) Shawscope: Volume One. February 8th releases include The Flag of Iron and Legendary Weapons of China. Releasing this week from 88 Films is the single movie release of The Chinese Boxer.
Shout Factory has revealed January titles. Currently the list includes The Awakener, Liar Liar (Shout Select), Moffie, The Temp, Weathering With You - 4K and Whispers in the Dark.
Which titles are you buying this week? Which ones are on your wishlist, be it to buy as an impulse buy or to wait for the right price?
What better way to celebrate Christmas than with a little festive horror film dedicated to the most famous seasonal anti-hero? Krampus was a surprise hit way back in 2015 and now we get to finally see the film as it was meant to be seen with all of the little bits of gore and language that were cut to secure a family-friendly PG-13 rating.
Krampus: The Naughty Cut - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray
In addition to the new cut which looks to run at about 102-minutes, this two-disc 4K UHD Blu-ray and 1080p Blu-ray set will also snatch up a new Dolby Atmos audio mix along with a host of excellent new features that even the most misbehaved little boys and girls will want to take a look at.
Disc 1 (UHD):
Disc 2 (1080p Blu-ray):
If you're keen to upgrade your old Blu-ray - Krampus: The Naughty Cut - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray is now up for pre-order here - but if you order direct from Shout! Factory, you can pick up an 18" x 24" poster while supplies last - and as of this writing, is cheaper than what Amazon is currently listing this at.
At long last the first and best of the franchise, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl is finally making landfall on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray on January 2nd, 2022
Well - at least for now it's coming on January 2nd, 2022. If you look at your calendars that'd be a Sunday release day and I've never seen or heard of that ever happening. So expect that date to shift a couple of days to the 4th, or later into the month. However - the important thing to note is that Disney is still moving back catalog favorites that are already available in 4K on Disney+ and other streaming services to physical media. Could they be a little more aggressive and release the others not already on the format or do a big box set? Sure. That'd be pretty awesome. But for now, we're at least getting the first and best of the entire franchise and that's at least one small step in the right direction.
Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray
Note that at the moment we don't know if there will be any new bonus features or if Disney will break with their physical media tradition and offer Dolby Vision HDR in addition to HDR10. But, we do know this will come packed at the very least with Dolby Atmos audio. We also haven't had any word of any retailer exclusive packaging or Best Buy SteelBooks, but we'll stay on the lookout. As 2021 comes to a close, 2022 is already shaping up to be a solid year for new 4K releases.
As we learn more and when that release date eventually moves and when this is actually up for pre-order - we'll update our listings ASAP.
Here's the full press release:
EXPERIENCE A SWASHBUCKLING CLASSIC FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 4K ULTRA HD™
Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl Sails to 4K Ultra HD January 2
LOS ANGELES, CA (November 4, 2021) – Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl arrives on 4K Ultra HD Disc for the first time on January 2, 2022 in spectacular HDR picture quality and Dolby Atmos audio.
Film Synopsis
The roguish yet charming Captain Jack Sparrow's (Johnny Depp) idyllic pirate life capsizes after his nemesis, the wily Captain Barbossa (Geoffrey Rush), steals his ship, the Black Pearl, and later attacks the town of Port Royal, kidnapping the governor's beautiful daughter Elizabeth (Kiera Knightly). In a gallant attempt to rescue her and recapture the Black Pearl, Elizabeth's childhood friend Will Turner (Orlando Bloom) joins forces with Jack. What Will doesn't know is that a cursed treasure has doomed Barbossa and his crew to live forever as the undead!
Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl Product Specifications
Street Date
January 2, 2022
Feature Run Time
143 minutes
Rating
U.S. Rated PG-13
**for action/adventure violence**
Aspect Ratio
Physical: 2.35:1
U.S. Audio
4K Ultra HD: English Dolby Atmos, English AD 2.0 Dolby Digital, Spanish 7.1 Dolby Digital Plus, French 5.1 Dolby Digital
U.S. Subtitles
4K Ultra HD: English SDH, Spanish, French
While it split critics and fans of The Sopranos, David Chase returns to the world of organized crime he created with the ambitious prequel film The Many Saints of Newark. After its short run in theaters and on HBO Max, you'll be able to add this film to your shelf and complete your Tony Soprano collection this December 21st on either Blu-ray or 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray.
The Many Saints of Newark - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray 
The Many Saints of Newark - Blu-ray 
We don't have 100% all of the tech specs for the 4K disc yet - the press release didn't list HDR format so we've asked for clarification. However, we do know that both the 4K Disc and 1080p Blu-ray will have Dolby Atmos audio tracks along with the same set of bonus features. As we get more details we'll update our listings.
Here's the full press release from Warner Bros. for The Many Saints of Newark on Blu-ray & 4K Utra HD Blu-ray:
“A great mob epic”
Peter Travers, ABC News
The Many Saints of Newark
COMES HOME FROM
WARNER BROS. HOME ENTERTAINMENT
Premium Digital Ownership
debuts early on November 19
4K, Blu-ray and DVD arrive on December 21
Burbank, CA, November 2 – Discover who made Tony Soprano when “The Many Saints of Newark” arrives for Premium Digital Ownership at home on November 19. The film is directed by Alan Taylor (TV’s “Game of Thrones,” TV’s “Madmen”) from a screenplay by series creator David Chase and Lawrence Konner, based on characters created by Chase, and stars Alessandro Nivola (“Disobedience,” “American Hustle”), Tony winner Leslie Odom Jr. (Broadway’s “Hamilton,” “Murder on the Orient Express”), Jon Bernthal (“Baby Driver,” “The Wolf of Wall Street”), Corey Stoll (“First Man,” “Ant-Man”), Michael Gandolfini (TV’s “The Deuce”), Billy Magnussen (“Game Night,” “The Big Short”), Michela De Rossi (“Boys Cry,” TV’s “The Rats”) and John Magaro (“The Finest Hours,” “Not Fade Away”). The film will also be available on 4K, Blu-ray and DVD beginning on December 21.
The film was produced by Chase, Konner and Nicole Lambert, with Michael Disco, Marcus Viscidi, Toby Emmerich and Richard Brener executive producing. The film also stars Emmy winner Ray Liotta (TV’s “Shades of Blue,” “Goodfellas”) and Oscar nominee Vera Farmiga (“Up in the Air,” “The Conjuring” films).
“The Many Saints of Newark” 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
Young Anthony Soprano (Michael Gandolfini) is growing up in one of the most tumultuous eras in Newark’s history, becoming a man just as rival gangsters begin to rise up and challenge the all-powerful DiMeo crime family’s hold over the increasingly race-torn city. Caught up in the changing times is the uncle he idolizes, Dickie Moltisanti (Alessandro Nivola), who struggles to manage both his professional and personal responsibilities—and whose influence over his nephew will help make the impressionable teenager into the all-powerful mob boss we’ll later come to know: Tony Soprano.
4K, BLU-RAY & DVD ELEMENTS
“The Many Saints of Newark” 4K UHD combo pack and Blu-ray contain the following special features:
“The Many Saints of Newark” DVD contains the following special feature:
ABOUT MOVIES ANYWHERE
Movies Anywhere is a digital movie platform that enables movie fans to discover, access, and watch their favorite digital movies in one place. Movies Anywhere brings together a library of nearly 7,500 digital movies from Sony Pictures, Twentieth Century Fox Film, The Walt Disney Studios (including Disney, Pixar, Marvel Studios and Lucasfilm), Universal Pictures (including DreamWorks and Illumination Entertainment) and Warner Bros., and will continue to expand the consumer experience as more content providers, digital retailers and platforms are added. By connecting participating digital retailers that include Amazon Prime Video, FandangoNOW, Google Play, iTunes and Vudu, movie fans can now bring together their digital movie collections (whether purchased or redeemed) in one place and enjoy them from the comfort of their living rooms, and across multiple devices and platforms, including Amazon Fire devices; Android devices and Android TV; Apple TV; Chromecast; iPhone, iPad and iPod touch; Roku® devices and popular browsers. Movie fans can also redeem digital codes found in eligible Blu-ray and DVD disc packages from participating studios and enjoy them through Movies Anywhere. Movies Anywhere – your movies, together at last.
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
Blu-ray
DVD
Digital Ownership: November 19, 2021
PVOD: November 19, 2021
4K, Blu-ray and DVD Street Date: December 21, 2021
DVD Languages: English, English-ADS, Latin Spanish, Canadian French
BD Languages: English, English-ADS, English ATMOS, Latin Spanish, Canadian French
4K Languages: English, English-ADS, English ATMOS, Latin Spanish, Canadian French
DVD Subtitles: English SDH, Latin Spanish, Canadian French, Parisian French, Cantonese, Korean, Chinese
BD Subtitles: English SDH, Latin Spanish, Canadian French, Parisian French, Cantonese, Korean
4K Subtitles: English SDH, Latin Spanish, Canadian French, Parisian French
Running Time: 120 minutes
Rating: Rated R for strong violence, pervasive language, sexual content and some nudity
DVD: DLBY/DGTL
Blu-ray: ATMOS TrueHD
4K: ATMOS TrueHD
THE CREDITS
About “The Many Saints of Newark”
The film is directed by Alan Taylor (TV’s “Game of Thrones,” TV’s “Madmen”) from a screenplay by series creator David Chase & Lawrence Konner, based on characters created by Chase, produced by Chase, Konner and Nicole Lambert, with Michael Disco, Marcus Viscidi, Toby Emmerich and Richard Brener executive producing.
The ensemble stars Alessandro Nivola (“Disobedience,” “American Hustle”), Tony winner Leslie Odom Jr. (Broadway’s “Hamilton,” “Murder on the Orient Express”), Jon Bernthal (“Baby Driver,” “The Wolf of Wall Street”), Corey Stoll (“First Man,” “Ant-Man”), Michael Gandolfini (TV’s “The Deuce”), Billy Magnussen (“Game Night,” “The Big Short”), Michela De Rossi (“Boys Cry,” TV’s “The Rats”) and John Magaro (“The Finest Hours,” “Not Fade Away”), alongside Emmy winner Ray Liotta (TV’s “Shades of Blue,” “Goodfellas”) and Oscar nominee Vera Farmiga (“Up in the Air,” “The Conjuring” films).
New Line Cinema Presents, In Association with Home Box Office, a Chase Films Production, “The Many Saints of Newark.”
About Warner Bros. Home Entertainment, Inc.
Warner Bros. Home Entertainment (WBHE) brings together Warner Bros. Entertainment's home video and digital distribution businesses in order to maximize current and next-generation distribution scenarios. An industry leader since its inception, WBHE oversees the global distribution of content through packaged goods (Blu-ray Disc™ and DVD) and digital media in the form of electronic sell-through and video-on-demand via cable, satellite, online and mobile channels. WBHE distributes its product through third party retail partners and licensees.
While you probably should be thinking about shopping for other people, November is a pretty stacked and expensive month for exciting new 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray releases!
From new releases to exciting back catalog favorites to the first Criterion Collection 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray releases - November is another stacked month of great titles.
As has been the story for the last couple of months now, the release frame has been pretty volatile. The ongoing supply chain issues keep forcing studios and boutique labels to play a near-constant game of release date shuffle. Titles that were supposed to come out in October got pushed back into November. Titles that were supposed to come out at the beginning of November have already been pushed back to the end of the month with the studios hoping against all hope that they'll have enough product to meet retailer pre-orders and fan demand. And given the trend, we expect a number of releases in this guide to get pushed back into December and/or experience stock shortages. When/If that happens we'll update this guide ASAP. But for now, the titles and release dates for this list appear firm - so let's get to it!
That's everything there is that's fit to print for the month of November - so far. Now as we said before, the supply chain issues are pretty volatile so these release dates could switch around for some of these. If release dates don't change, we do expect a few of these to be in short supply - so if you're aiming to pick any of these up don't wait to get those pre-orders in. That's your best bet to make sure you actually get a copy of what you're after, you'll just have to be patient.
If any release dates change - or for some of these change again - we'll update this list as soon as possible.
Speaking of pre-orders - thanks for clicking those links and pre-ordering. They really do help go a long way towards keeping our little operation up and running.
Happy Halloween, Happy November, Election Day, All Saints Day, All Souls Day and everything in between. Hey, here's something. Barnes and Noble has got the Criterion sale going on now through November 29th. Often times the sale spills over to Arrow Video, Cohen Media and a couple of other houses too. Amazon frequently matches these prices so it might be easier if you only get one or two titles to go there instead.
Welcome to Volume 2 Episode 24 of our weekly release guide. A look at the highlights of what's coming to disc this week, as well as a look at announcements from last week.
4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Releases-
If you've been an avid 4K collector, this week offers you a huge reprieve. Every title listed is a reissue of sort from previous months. Be warned though, November 16th is going to cost ya.
The Guns of Navarone 60th Anniversary is on schedule for Tuesday after a delay.
Hacksaw Ridge gets a Best Buy Exclusive SteelBook release. Lately they have been experimenting with slip covers that enhance the cover art when slid up or down. This one is not quite as nice as American Psycho though in that regard.
The Indiana Jones collection gets a reprint, both standard edition and Best Buy Exclusive SteelBook.
Harry Potter Anniversary 8-Film Collector’s Edition gets a special release in a collectible package with a bit of swag in tow.
Blu-ray releases-
Blu-ray selection is above normal volume this week. There are no counterparts ta carry down so let's move on to our regular content.
Chernobyl 1986, a Russian language version of the heroic events from that day comes via MPI Video.
Wait no longer for The Crown: The Complete Fourth Season, Sony releases it this week. From their Classics label, Nine Days gets a disc release.
From Warner Bros., the reboot TV series, Kung Fu: The Complete First Season is available this week. Also from Warner Bros, Sex and the City: The Complete Series gets a blu-ray release, time to replace those DVDs.
MacGyver: The Complete Collection gets a release by Paramount after leaving us hanging after Season 1 came out a couple of years ago. Also from Paramount, PAW Patrol: The Movie gets a firm date after a bit of bouncing around. The Paramount Presents release of The Sheik appears to be on target this week after a previous delay. And the 2021 Sci-Fi/Thriller Zone 414 also beckons your consideration.
Anime highlights include Fire Force: Season 1 Complete, Fire Force: Season 2 Part 2, Fire Force: Season 2 Part 2 (Limited Edition), Our Last Crusade or the Rise of a New World - The Complete Season, as a standard release and as a Limited Edition release and The Rising of the Shield Hero: Season One.
If you have no plans on doing 4K, then How to Train Your Dragon: The Ultimate Collection might be your thing. All it's missing is the TV series in HD (hello, Universal?) In the same sort of release, Trolls Dance! Dance! Dance! Collection comes out, it too minus the (not as popular) TV series.
Criterion Collection releases Italian Drama La Strada after how many years put on hold? Our listing shows about eleven years from time it was announced to actual release.
Honorable Mention: Scorpion Releasing has two Charlton Heston titles this week, Counterpoint and Number One.
Notable announcements from last week:
Just like last week, announcements are at a slow pace.
Arrow Video's January slate for U.S. and Canada for new titles thus far includes Red Angel, Shock and Sleep. For UK releases, add Dillinger and The Mangler. Remember we are talking about January, so it's unlikely there will be any additional titles added, including anything 4K. They are reissuing a bunch of previous releases in the single disc format, which usually means a lower price.
Juice (1992) starring Tupac Shakur gets a 4K release on January 11th. Read the story here.
Dear Evan Hansen has a street date of December 7th and will be available as a blu-ray and as a 4K disc release.
Which titles are you buying this week? Which ones are on your wishlist, be it to buy as an impulse buy or to wait for the right price?
Ernest R. Dickerson's 1992 directorial debut Juice starring Tupac Shakur, Omar Epps, and Samuel L. Jackson celebrates its 30th Anniversary on 4K Ultra HD Blku-ray
The press release didn't indicate HDR grade or audio - we've reached out for clarification, but the disc will include the following bonus features:
And for packaging collectors out there - Juice - 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray SteelBook
Pre-orders are live for both editions. Thank you for your pre-orders they really do go a long way towards keeping our little operation up and running.
Here is the full press release from Paramount:
Director Ernest R. Dickerson’s Powerful Film Starring
Tupac Shakur and Omar Epps Marks Its 30th Anniversary with
First-Ever 4K Ultra HD Release
Searing Drama Debuts on 4K Ultra HD January 11, 2022
A powerful morality tale steeped in 90s urban culture, JUICE marked the feature directorial debut of acclaimed cinematographer Ernest R. Dickerson and the first starring roles for Omar Epps and an electrifying Tupac Shakur. 30 years later, the gritty and influential film continues to be celebrated for its realistic portrayal of Harlem life, the early New York hip hop scene, and the fate of four friends in pursuit of the power and respect they call the Juice.
To mark the film’s 30th anniversary, Paramount Home Entertainment will release the film on 4K Ultra HD for the first time ever on January 11, 2022. The disc features access to a Digital copy of the film and legacy bonus content, including interviews with Dickerson, producer David Heyman (Harry Potter franchise), Epps, and fellow actors Khalil Kain and Jermaine Hopkins. The cast and crew look back on making the film, share heartfelt stories of working with Shakur, and reveal the influence that JUICE had on them both personally and professionally.
The in-depth featurettes are also loaded with footage of the cast on set and vintage interviews with Shakur, Queen Latifah, Cindy Herron of En Vogue, the Shocklee brothers, Eric B, EPMD, Cypress Hill and more. Along with commentary by the director, fans can enjoy the original ending and hear Dickerson detail the reasons that it was changed prior to the film’s theatrical debut.
JUICE was originally released on January 17, 1992. The previously released bonus content is detailed below:
Synopsis
Q, Raheem, Bishop, and Steel spend their days hanging out and looking for a way to get the power and respect they call Juice. Q hopes to earn respect by becoming a scratch 'n' mix DJ. Bishop has a deadlier plan—take it through an armed robbery with his crew. Ernest R. Dickerson, the acclaimed cinematographer whose collaborations with Spike Lee include Do the Right Thing and Malcom X, made his directorial debut with this powerful drama steeped in ‘90s urban lifestyle. JUICE features the acting debut of Tupac Shakur and a hit soundtrack that includes Eric B. & Rakim, Naughty by Nature, Big Daddy Kane and Salt N’ Pepa.
JUICE is directed by Ernest R. Dickerson with a story by Ernest R. Dickerson and screenplay by Gerard Brown and Ernest R. Dickerson.
# # #
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 ViacomCBS (NASDAQ: VIAC; VIACA), a leading content company with prominent and respected film, television and digital entertainment brands. 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.
JUICE
Street Date: January 11, 2022
U.S. Rating: R for strong language and for some violence
Another week gone, and actually if you count this coming Halloween weekend, another MONTH gone! The shipping delays continue with multiple titles including last week's release of Scream 4K. I just got my copy of Halloween II last Friday. Wasn't about to watch 3 - 5 without 2 in there. At least it will be in time for Halloween itself. Then it's on to Thanksgiving and Christmas movies. Will we get our Krampus 4K in time?
Welcome to Volume 2 Episode 23 of our weekly release guide. A look at the highlights of what's coming to disc this week, as well as a look at announcements from last week.
4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Releases-
Compared to last week, there's little difference in volume of titles, which means open up yer wallet.
Import Monday might be exciting for many of you, StudioCanal releases The Howling 40th Anniversary Edition, available as a 'fat-pack' release and as a SteelBook release. I got my fat-pack ordered from Diabolik the day it went live. Will Arrow or Shout! Factory eventually do a domestic release? A barebones release by Universal is more likely.
On to Tuesday releases, the next Dario Argento movie from Arrow Video, Deep Red. This one is also a 'fat-pack' release like the two previous Argento films from Arrow. Alternately, a 'Arte Original Version' was available for preorder as well.
Six-String Samurai gets a general release via Vinegar Syndrome.
The Underworld 5-Movie Collection gets a release this week from Sony Pictures, some people have already received theirs. Are there enough to fill demand?
A Ronin Flix shop exclusive, I Spit On Your Grave gets a 4K release. We reviewed the latest blu-ray release from them, it got a 'Highly Recommended' grade.
Moving on to NEW releases, Sony Pictures also brings us Don't Breathe 2. Maybe worthy of an upgrade, it would have made sense to have a 4K double feature or offer the original film in 4K the same day.
2021's The Suicide Squad get a standard release and a SteelBook release from Warner Bros. This one is helmed by James Gunn.
Blu-ray releases-
What a BUSY week for blu-ray. All I can say is good hunting.
Releases from above getting blu-ray releases, Don't Breathe 2 and The Suicide Squad. The latter also gets a Target Exclusive.
From Warner Archive Collection, a rather busy week for this label. The 1964 film Children of the Damned, 1933 drama Dinner at Eight, 1966 horror/mystery Eye of the Devil and Mary Stevens, M.D.. From the regular Warner label, Superman: The Complete Animated Series debuts on blu-ray disc this week.
Shout Select has Nothing But Trouble, featuring those funny guys Chevy Chase, Dan Aykroyd, John Candy.
Has the BBC turned down the dial on 4K releases? Serengeti II gets a blu-ray release this week.
Criterion Collection releases 1960 foreign drama Devi.
Universal Studios TV releases The Incredible Hulk: The Complete Series.
LionsGate's appearance this week offers Megan is Missing and On the Rocks. Neither title appear to have a digital code, hope that's not going to be the new norm for them. The next Vestron Video release Steel Dawn this week *does* come with a digital code, as does the 2021 Sci-Fi/Thriller Warning.
Anime highlights include Goblin Slayer: Season One (SteelBook)-which remains a Best Buy Exclusive for 2 months, Higurashi: When They Cry GOU Season 1 Part 1, Lupin the 3rd Part V: Misadventures in France, Sgt. Frog: The Complete First Season, Shaman King, She, the Ultimate Weapon - Complete Collection, Venus Wars and Wandering Witch: The Journey of Elaina.
Except for the Pink Floyd release, all of Friday's titles are Imprint Films Limited Editions. Remember that Imprint Releases are region free.
>The Harry Palmer Collection - Imprint Film
Notable announcements from last week:
Very slow week for news/announcements. Keep in mind that these said announcements are targeting January, which typically is a very slow month for new releases.
Warner Bros. has announced Clint Eastwood's latest film Cry Macho will be available on 4K disc and blu-ray on December 7th.
FUNimation revealed their January 2022 titles. Although not a terrible selection, nothing absolutely jumps out. If they read these articles I would ask why they stopped releasing SteelBooks for the DBZ series. Why have you?
There is word surfacing that Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean will get a 4K release. A French retailer has all five listed (remember we got number 5 in 4K in North America already.) Under the 20th Century Studios label, Heat is still on hold. Due to the length of that movie it would highly benefit from a BD100 disc, something that Disney has yet to do.
Which titles are you buying this week? Which ones are on your wishlist, be it to buy as an impulse buy or to wait for the right price?
