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Save Forty to Fifty Percent on Blu-rays at Barnes & Noble![teaser]Until tomorrow, you can save big on many of your favorite Blu-ray titles![/teaser] The retailer is selling a wide variety of DVD and Blu-ray discs for 40-50% off the suggested list price both in-store and online. Some highlights include 'The Killing' and 'X-Men: First Class,' and many more! Click here to check out the sale! Plus save an additional 7% off by using the coupon code E7E4K8K. Don't miss the opportunity to pick up a bunch of these great titles for a terrific price!Posted Tue Sep 13, 2011 at 07:01 AM PDT by: -
Optoma Shows Off New Home Theater Projectors[teaser]One of which - the HD33 - gets you into 3D for just $1,499. [/teaser] The folks at Optoma have a lot of projectors to show off, but perhaps the most interesting to those with a limited home theater budget is the HD33, which displays 3D content at 1080p for a price of $1,499. It supports anything HDMI 1.4 and can be set to enable non-HDMI 1.4 3D signals from game systems and set-top boxes. The HD3300 steps things up a bit by adding features like PureMotion3D and PureD to enhance your 3D experience. It also boasts a new color processing system and ISFccc controls so you can get everything just right. You can pick it up now for $1,999. At the top of the line is the HD8300, which includes PureMotion4D - the projector can't actually travel through time, but that doesn't mean you can't pretend it's a TARDIS. You'll also find Pure Shift lens shift, ISFccc controls and separate day and night modes. The HD8300 comes in at $4,499. Source: eCousticsPosted Tue Sep 13, 2011 at 07:00 AM PDT by: -
Yamaha Debuts a New Sound Bar Speaker[teaser]The YAS-101 produces 7.1 channels of sound and volume leveling functionality. [/teaser] The latest sound bar to come out of Yamaha is the YAS-101. It's a unique looking bar in that it features a single pair of drivers instead of the usual full front panel. The two 2-1/2 inch speakers deliver 7.1 channels of sound thanks to Yamaha's Air Surround Xtreme technology which Yamaha says is capable of sorting out dialogue, sound effects and music. Yamaha has also introduced a UniVolume function that gets rid of sound spikes. In addition to the pair of speakers up front, the YAS-101 sports a dual driver subwoofer driven by an amp delivering 120 watts of power. The bar stands just over four inches tall and lets you connect up via digital, optical or coaxial. It also has a subwoofer out if you want to add your own. You can pick it up now for $299. Source: eCousticsPosted Tue Sep 13, 2011 at 06:30 AM PDT by: -
'Terry Pratchett’s Going Postal' Announced for Blu-ray[teaser]Terry Patchett’s beloved Discworld novel comes to life in the dazzling two-part drama hitting Blu-ray this month. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Acorn Media has just revealed 'Terry Pratchett’s Going Postal' for Blu-ray on September 20. Starring top British actors Richard Coyle ('Lorna Doone'), David Suchet ('Agatha Christie’s Poirot'), Charles Dance ('Game of Thrones'), Claire Foy ('Little Dorrit') and Timothy West ('Bleak House,' 'Edward the King'), the spectacular 2010 production boasts first-class performances, elaborate costumes and impressive sets. The Blu-ray features more than an hour of exclusive extras, including video introduction from Terry Pratchett; director commentary; deleted scenes; blooper reel; and cast, crew, and fan interviews. Moist von Lipwig is a con man and a charlatan—and he loves every minute of it. From confidence tricks to far-reaching financial fraud, von Lipwig revels in hoodwinking, fleecing, and otherwise ripping off the citizens of Ankh-Morpork. When the law finally catches up to him, the city’s shrewd leader, Lord Vetinari (Charles Dance), offers von Lipwig a choice: he can take over the derelict post office . . . or suffer a painful death. The reluctant postmaster finds himself in charge of thousands of undelivered letters, commanding a charmingly deranged staff of misfits, and at odds with corrupt businessman Reacher Gilt (David Suchet), who will stop at nothing to crush his competition. Along the way, he falls under the spell of the icy Adora Dearheart (Claire Foy), much to her chagrin. In this delightful adaptation, Moist von Lipwig needs every ounce of his considerable charm and cunning to restore the post office, trounce Gilt, and win Adora’s affections. Worldwide sales of Pratchett’s novels now top 65 million copies in 37 languages with U.S. sales increasing six-fold in recent years. Acorn Media previously released Terry Pratchett’s Discworld Collection, featuring animated adaptations of Wyrd Sisters & Soul Music in August 2008. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray is $39.99. You can find the latest specs for 'Terry Pratchett’s Going Postal' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under September 20.Posted Tue Sep 13, 2011 at 06:00 AM PDT by: -
Win 'Star Wars: The Complete Saga' on Blu-ray From High-Def DigestIt's easily the biggest Blu-ray release of the year, if not the biggest release in the history of the format. It's loaded to the gills with special features, behind the scenes documentaries, and plenty of surprises. It also represents quite a financial investment. We're talking of course about 'Star Wars: The Complete Saga,' and boy have we got some exciting news for you! [teaser]We're awarding one free copy of 'Star Wars: The Complete Saga' to a very lucky High-Def Digest Forum member![/teaser] Here's how you can enter to win: Visit the High-Def Digest Forums from the link provided at the bottom of this announcement. If you're a newcomer, be sure you set up an HDD forum account, we're always excited to see new members in the community! Entering is simple. The forum thread linked below asks you to answer just one simple question: "When did you first see any of the 'Star Wars' movies? Tell us the story and what made that initial visit to the 'Star Wars' universe so memorable for you!" We want to know how the movie made you feel the very first time you sat down and watched Luke, Han, Obi-Wan and the rest of the gang take on Darth Vader and the Emperor. Who did you see it with? Did you sleep on the sidewalk to get tickets on opening day? Were you dressed as Chewbacca? Share your experience in a forum post and you're entered to win! Simple as that. Of course, no High-Def Digest employees or their family members are eligible. This is for our readers and forum members only. This contest will run from September 12 through September 19th. The winner will be picked at random, and his or her name will be announced on Tuesday, September 20, 2011! So, what are you waiting for? Enter to win one of the biggest Blu-ray releases since the format was introduced! We can't wait to read your stories!Posted Mon Sep 12, 2011 at 11:15 AM PDT by: -
'Winnie the Pooh' Dated and Detailed for Blu-ray[teaser]All of the beloved characters from the Hundred Acre Wood are coming to Blu-ray at the end of October. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Disney/Buena Vista is prepping 'Winnie the Pooh' (Blu-ray/DVD/Digital Copy Combo Pack) for Blu-ray on October 25. Inspired by the beloved stories from A.A. Milne’s books and crafted in Disney’s classic style, 'Winnie the Pooh,' is the most critically-acclaimed animated film of 2011 (Rotten Tomatoes). It is narrated by the voice of John Cleese and features the vocal talents of legendary voice actor Jim Cummings (over 350 voices including 'Gnomeo & Juliet') and a host of other distinctive actors including Craig Ferguson (TV’s ‘The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson’), Tom Kenny (TV’s ‘SpongeBob SquarePants’), Bud Luckey ('Toy Story 3') and musical performances by Zooey Deschanel (indie folk band “She & Him”). The all-new 'Winnie the Pooh' brings back to life the timeless charm, wit and whimsy of the original featurettes and characters. Sure to become a family favorite for every household, it is directed by Stephen Anderson ('Meet The Robinsons') and Don Hall ('The Princess and The Frog') and Executive Produced by John Lasseter. The release will be a Blu-ray/DVD combo pack with 1080p video, a 5.1 soundtrack, and supplements include "Mini-Adventures of Winnie the Pooh: The Balloon" bonus short film where Pooh comes up with a daring plan to get a hold of some honey by fooling a group of bees; "The Ballad of Nessie" bonus short film detailing how Nessie found her new home in the Loch Ness; and Deleted scenes with introductions by directors Stephen Anderson ('Meet the Robinsons') and Don Hall ('The Princess and the Frog'). Exclusives on the Blu-ray are Winnie the Pooh and His Story Too behind-the-scenes featurette - hosted by John Cleese - which explores Pooh's history from the A.A. Milne books through the Disney movies; Sing-Along with the Movie feature for seven song lyrics featured in the film; Disney Song Selection feature: "Winnie the Pooh Theme Song," "The Tummy Song, "A Very Important Thing To Do," "The Backson Song," "It's Gonna Be Great," "Everything is Honey," and "The Winner Song Finale; and Two more deleted scenes. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray is $44.99. You can find the latest specs for 'Winnie the Pooh' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under October 25.Posted Mon Sep 12, 2011 at 10:30 AM PDT by: -
Beyond the Blu: September 2011I've got posters on my wall, action figures on my shelves, framed autographs, and memorabilia from the films themselves. A true fan never stops collecting, even when the item in question is only tangentially related to the thing they love. Hell, I have a Katy Sagal CD in my collection - I have 'Futurama' to thank for that one. [teaser]For people out there like me, here's a list of some cool, interesting, or just plain weird stuff that you can pick up to go along with your September Blu-ray purchases.[/teaser] There's plenty of film recommendations this month and a bit of costumery to boot. by Dick Ward Trigun Badlands Rumble Even people that don't care for 'Trigun,' and those that shun anime in particular, have to admit that Vash the Stampede has a unique, classic cool look. There are a few things that make Vash Vash, but the hardest to replicate are those crazy yellow tinted bent up glasses of his. Lucky for cosplayers and fans of awesome eyewear, you can pick a pair up on Amazon for about $40. Airplane! A comedy classic! It's also a movie that dares to ask the question "Do you like movies about gladiators?" Well if you do, there's a great one coming out this month on Blu-ray. That's right, none other than 'Ben-Hur.' I mean, you should own 'Ben-Hur' anyway, but it's even more for the creepy connection with 'Airplane!' Terry Pratchett’s Going Postal If you're a fan of the 'Going Postal' miniseries that was created for British television then you're wrong. You obviously watched it incorrectly somehow. That, or you never actually read the book. If you haven't, buy it and read it now. Unlike the TV movie, it's actually witty and funny and interesting. You know what, just go buy any Pratchett book. Then read it, love it, and go buy more. Thor Chris Hemsworth - better known as "that dude who played Kirk's dad" - made a pretty good Thor, maybe the best ever. There aren't a lot of competitors in the category, but you can't call "Kirk's dad" the best without considering Vincent D'Onofrio, who rocked out the part of Thor in the late 80s flick 'Adventures in Babysitting.' Scarface The obvious pickup for 'Scarface' fans is the poster that plasters the wall of every dorm room in the world, right next to the John Belushi "College" poster and something of the New York skyline. I know a lot of people who love 'Scarface,' but the ones I know with that poster tend to be either wannabe thugs or, worse - bros. If you're a bro who loves 'Scarface' and you're already going to get really annoying about it with posters and shirts, why not just go all the way and get a 'Scarface' style beer pong table. Breakfast at Tiffany's Halloween is coming up and it's time to find a costume. You don't want to be a slutty nurse or a slutty maid or a slutty ladybug or whatever else costume makers can throw a short skirt and low cut top on. A sexy costume is fine as long as it's got some class. Try Audrey Hepburn's outfit from 'Breakfast and Tiffany's'. It's not too hard to put together - hair up, black dress, heels, gloves and a cigarette holder. It may not be perfect, but honestly, how many people at your Halloween party are going to get the reference? The Rocky Horror Picture Show A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, God said "let there be lips," and there were. And they were good. In sixth grade I caught my first glimpse of a movie that would soon turn into an obsession. 'Rocky Horror' is that kind of movie - the kind you watch over and over again. Truly obsessed fans will also dip into the spiritual sequel 'Shock Treatment.' It's actually pretty decent if you're into campy musicals and it features Little Nell as the incredibly sexy Nurse Ansalong. And remember, the sun never sets on those who ride into it.Posted Mon Sep 12, 2011 at 10:15 AM PDT by: -
'Phantom of the Opera' Blu-ray Fully Detailed[teaser]The 1925 silent classic starring Lon Chaney that's coming to Blu-ray this November has now been fully detailed. [/teaser] “If I am the Phantom, it is because man's hatred has made me so... If I shall be saved, it will be because your love redeems me.” He was the “Man of a Thousand Faces.” Generations of filmgoers the world over have been thrilled by his portrayals that showcased – and more often than not, empathized with – the shadows of human nature. And now the makeup artistry of a true cinematic pioneer can be seen in high definition! On November 1st, Image Entertainment releases the Lon Chaney classic 'Phantom of the Opera' for the first time on Blu-ray™! The Blu-ray™ features 3 versions of the film – assembled together for the first time in a single release -- including a brand-new high definition digital transfer from the 35mm negative, plus Gaylord Carter's famous theatre organ score, released for the first time as recorded in stereo! Produced by renowned silent film authority and preservationist David Shepard, the Phantom of the Opera Blu-ray™ includes the following versions: * Brand-new HD digital transfer of the 24fps version of 1929 reissue (Academy Aspect Ratio; 16x9 pillar-boxed) from the 35mm negative, with tinted sequences including the Bal Masque sequence in two-strip Technicolor. Featuring a brand new music score by Alloy Orchestra, plus Gaylord Carter’s famous theatre organ score, released for the first time in stereo; * Brand-new HD transfer of 20fps version of 1929 reissue with tinting, Technicolor and hand-coloring. Symphonic score composed by Gabriel Thibaudeau, performed by I Musici de Montreal, conducted by Yuri Turovsky with Claudine Cote, soprano presented in stereo, along with a new full-length audio essay by Dr. Jon Mirsalis; * Standard definition presentation of the original 1925 release from a 16mm tinted source copy. Accompanied by a new piano score by Dr. Frederick Hodges. Chaney stars as Erik, the “Phantom” who lives deep within the twisting catacombs and dungeons beneath the 19th century Paris Opera House. The singers all speak of a ghost who walks the halls, yet no one has ever seen him. But when Erik falls in love with the beautiful aspiring singer Christine, rumor becomes reality when he kidnaps her and holds her hostage in his lair. Hoping, praying that she might see beyond the mask and the disfigurement hiding under it... As in all his films, Chaney designed the now signature makeup for the Phantom, employing techniques – like pining his nose with wires – that not only expressed the outward physical pain of the characters, but inflicted great personal discomfort on the actor bringing them to life. The Phantom of the Opera is an allegory of desire, featuring Chaney’s tour-de-force performance. Love and hate; violence and obsession; shame and honor: all are combined to create one of the greatest characters in cinematic history...and a must-have Blu-ray™! The Blu-ray will feature 1080p video, an uncompressed mono soundtrack, and supplements will include: Phantom of the Opera Trailer, Gabriel Thibaudeau Interview, Photo Gallery, Phantom Script, and Phantom Souvenir Program Reproduction. Suggested list price for the Blu-ray is $39.98. You can find the latest specs for 'Phantom of the Opera' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under November 1.Posted Mon Sep 12, 2011 at 10:00 AM PDT by: -
Vivitek Announces Two DLP Projectors - One 3D[teaser]The company's new projectors are priced low and made for multipurpose use. [/teaser] Vivitek's latest addition to its 2D projector line is the D963, made for use in both the home and in office and classroom settings. It's a 1080p projector with a 3,000:1 contrast ratio, 4500 lumens brightness and plenty of features and connection options. It can be had for $2,199. The H1086-3D is made just for the home theater and offers an inexpensive way to get into 3D. You'll enjoy the ability to view a variety of 3D content including 3D Blu-rays and 3D television. But that's not where it stops. DVD and Blu-ray video coming in through HDMI - we assume game systems too though the information isn't specified - can be converted from 2D to 3D, giving you plenty of options for entertainment. "It was a natural progression to build the technology into a home theater product," says product manager Christopher Yang, "and now home theater fans are able to enjoy 3D content without needing to purchase or set-up an external box." Source: eCousticsPosted Mon Sep 12, 2011 at 09:00 AM PDT by: -
'The Apartment (1960)' Dated for Blu-ray[teaser]The Best Picture Oscar-winner is available on Blu-ray this week! [/teaser] In a rather late (or silent) announcement to retailers, it appears MGM/UA will be bringing 'The Apartment (1960)' to Blu-ray on September 13. That's tomorrow! Billy Wilder's romantic comedy starring Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine also claimed four more Academy Awards and Best Writing/Screenplay - Written Directly for the Screen and Best Director. Specs and supplements have yet to be revealed, but suggested list price for the Blu-ray is $19.99. You can find the latest specs for 'The Apartment (1960)' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under September 13.Posted Mon Sep 12, 2011 at 08:00 AM PDT by:
