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'Serenity' and 'Apollo 13' Announced and Detailed for 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray[teaser]Both titles will be available on the 4K format this October. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Universal is preparing 'Serenity' for 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray on October 17. A passenger with a deadly secret. Six rebels on the run. An assassin in pursuit. When the renegade crew of Serenity agrees to hide a fugitive on their ship, they find themselves in an action-packed battle between the relentless military might of a totalitarian regime that will destroy anything — or anyone — to get the girl back and the bloodthirsty creatures who roam the uncharted areas of space. But, the greatest danger of all may be on their ship. From the mind of Joss Whedon (The Avengers, Firefly) comes an edge-of-your-seat adventure loaded with explosive battles, gripping special effects and fantastic new worlds! The release will feature a DTS:X soundtrack and special features include: Feature Commentery with Writer / Director Joss Whedon; Feature Commentary with Writer / Director Joss Whedon & Cast Members Nathan Fillion, Adam Baldwin, Summer Glau and Ron Glass; Alliance Database; Deleted Scenes with Optional Commentary by Director Joss Whedon; Outtakes;; Future History - The Story of Earth That Was; What's In A Firefly; Re-Lighting The Firefly; Joss Whedon Introduction; Extended Scenes; Take A Walk On Serenity; A Filmmaker's Journey; The Green Clan; Session 416; and U-Control Access. 'Apollo 13 4K' will also be available on the same date. Nominated for nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Apollo 13 is the inspiring and riveting story of the real-life space flight that gripped the nation and changed the world. It had been less than a year since man first walked on the moon, but as far as the American public was concerned, Apollo 13 was just another "routine" space flight - until these infamous words pierced the immense void of space: "Houston, we have a problem." Produced by Brian Grazer and directed by Ron Howard, Apollo 13 stars Tom Hanks, Kevin Bacon, Bill Paxton, Gary Sinise and Ed Harris in NASA's epic operation to save the lives of 3 astronauts battling to survive an ill-fated mission to the moon. The release will feature a DTS:X soundtrack and special features include: Feature Commentary with Jim and Marilyn Lovell; Feature Audio Commentary with Director Ron Howard; Apollo 13: Twenty Years Later; Lost Moon: The Triumph of Apollo 13; Conquering Space: The Moon and Beyond; Lucky 13: The Astronaut's Story; Theatrical Trailer; and U-Control Access. Suggested retail price for each release is $29.98. You can find the latest specs for 'Serenity 4K' and 'Apollo 13 4K' linked from our 4K UHD Blu-ray Release Schedule, where they are indexed under October 17. Order Serenity 4K Order Apollo 13 4KPosted Mon Aug 14, 2017 at 10:25 AM PDT by: -
'Blade Runner: The Final Cut' 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Trailer (UPDATED)[teaser]Ridley Scott's 1982 science fiction classic is coming to the 4K format in September. UPDATE: Trailer added. [/teaser] As previously reported, Warner Brothers is working on 'Blade Runner: The Final Cut' for 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray on September 5. Visually spectacular, intensely action-packed and powerfully prophetic since its debut, Blade Runner returns in Ridley Scott's definitive Final Cut, including extended scenes and never-before-seen special effects. In a signature role as 21st-century detective Rick Deckard, Harrison Ford brings his masculine-yet-vulnerable presence to this stylish noir thriller. In a future of high-tech possibility soured by urban and social decay, Deckard hunts for fugitive, murderous replicates - and is drawn to a mystery woman whose secrets may undermine his soul. The release will feature 2160p video, a Dolby Atmos soundtrack and supplements include: Final Cut introduction by Ridley Scott Audio Commentary by Ridley ScottDangerous Days: The Making of Blade RunnerThe Electric Dreamer: Remembering Phillip K. DickSacrificial Sheep: The Novels vs. The FilmPhillip K. Dick: The Blade Runner InterviewsSign of the Times: Graphic DesignFashion Forward: Wardrobe & StylingScreen Tests: Rachael and PrisThe Light that Burns: Remembering Jordan CronenwethDeleted & Alternate Scenes1982 Promotional FeaturettesTrailers and TV SpotsPromoting Dystopia: Rendering the Poster ArtDeck-a-Rep: The True Nature of Rick DeckardNexus Generations: Fans and Filmmakers You can find the latest specs for 'Blade Runner: The Final Cut' linked from our UHD Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under September 5.Posted Mon Aug 14, 2017 at 08:16 AM PDT by: -
Coming Soon to Streaming: 'The Crown,' a New Show from the Coen Brothers, and More[teaser]A teaser trailer for the second season of The Crown and details on the Coen Brothers' new Netflix series are among the latest streaming updates.[/teaser] Netflix has released new trailers and other info for several of its upcoming shows and movies, including Disjointed, Our Souls at Night, The Crown, The Ballad of Buster Scruggs, and GLOW. Likewise, the streaming platform has announced new production deals with Shonda Rhimes, David Letterman, and Millarworld for exclusive content. In addition, Amazon has revealed a development agreement with The Walking Dead creator Robert Kirkman. Check out a full rundown of the latest streaming news and trailers below: Disjointed (Netflix, August 25) - A workplace comedy from Emmy winning creators Chuck Lorre and David Javerbaum. Academy Award winner Kathy Bates plays Ruth, a lifelong advocate for legalization who is finally living her dream as the owner of a Los Angeles cannabis dispensary, Ruth's Alternative Caring. Joining her are three charismatic "budtenders", her entrepreneurial twenty-something year old son and a very troubled security guard. In addition to Bates, the series stars Tone Bell, Aaron Moten, Elizabeth Alderfer, Dougie Baldwin and Elizabeth Ho. Our Souls at Night (Netflix, September 29) - Based on the novel written by Kent Haruf and adapted for the screen by Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber (The Fault in Our Stars), Our Souls at Night is set in Colorado and begins when Addie Moore (Jane Fonda) pays an unexpected visit to a neighbor, Louis Waters (Robert Redford). Her husband died years ago, as did his wife, and in such a small town they’d been neighbors for decades, but had little contact. Their children live far away and they are all alone in their big houses. She seeks to establish a connection, and make the most of the rest of the time they have. The Crown: Season Two (Netflix, December 8) - Tells the inside story of two of the most famous addresses in the world -- Buckingham Palace and 10 Downing Street - and the intrigues, love lives and machinations behind the great events that shaped the second half of the 20th century. Two houses, two courts, one Crown. In season two, as Queen Elizabeth's marriage and empire crumbles around her, she must do what is required to ensure the British monarchy survives. Netflix has also given the greenlight to a 10-episode second season of GLOW. The show comes from creators/showrunners Liz Flahive (Homeland, Nurse Jackie) and Carly Mensch, along with executive producers Jenji Kohan and Tara Herrmann. The series' first season is now available to stream. Set in 1985 Los Angeles, GLOW follows Ruth Wilder (Alison Brie), a struggling out-of-work actress as she auditions for, trains and eventually makes the first-ever women's wrestling TV show. Inspired by the short-lived but beloved show from the 80s, GLOW is a Cinderella story with bodyslams. Meanwhile, Netflix has announced a 2018 debut for The Ballad of Buster Scruggs. The upcoming series will be written and directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, and produced by Annapurna Television. A western anthology, the show will feature six tales about the American frontier told through the unique and incomparable voice of Joel and Ethan Coen. Each chapter will feature a distinct story about the American West. The project will star Tim Blake Nelson as Buster, and many others. "The Coens are visionary directors, masterful storytellers, and colorful linguists. We are thrilled for Netflix to become home to the full range of their talents," said Cindy Holland, Vice President, Original Content for Netflix. In addition, the company is also set to premiere a new series starring former Late Show host David Letterman in 2018. The yet-to-be-named, six-episode series has Letterman combining two interests for which he is renowned: in-depth conversations with extraordinary people, and in-the-field segments expressing his curiosity and humor. In each hour-long episode, Letterman will conduct a long-form conversation with a singular guest - and will also explore topics on his own, away from the studio. "Just meeting David Letterman was a thrill; imagine how exciting it is for me to announce that we will be working together," said Ted Sarandos, Chief Content Officer, Netflix. "David Letterman is a true television icon, and I can’t wait to see him out in the wild, out from behind the desk and interviewing the people he finds most interesting. We'll have to see if he keeps the beard." Likewise, Netflix has announced a multi-year deal with Shonda Rhimes (Grey's Anatomy, Scandal) and her production company Shondaland to produce new shows and other projects for the streaming service. "Shonda Rhimes is one of the greatest storytellers in the history of television," said Ted Sarandos, Chief Content Officer, Netflix. "Her work is gripping, inventive, pulse-pounding, heart-stopping, taboo-breaking television at its best. I’ve gotten the chance to know Shonda and she’s a true Netflixer at heart -- she loves TV and films, she cares passionately about her work, and she delivers for her audience. We’re so excited to welcome her to Netflix." And rounding out the Netflix updates, the service has also acquired Millarworld, a comic book publishing company started by writer Mark Millar (Kick-Ass, Kingsman). As part of the acquisition, Netflix and Millar will develop films, series, and kids' shows based on Millarworld's library of characters and franchises. Likewise, the company will also continue to create and publish new stories under the Netflix label. "As creator and re-inventor of some of the most memorable stories and characters in recent history, ranging from Marvel’s The Avengers to Millarworld’s Kick-Ass, Kingsman, Wanted and Reborn franchises, Mark is as close as you can get to a modern day Stan Lee," said Netflix chief content officer Ted Sarandos. "We can't wait to harness the creative power of Millarworld to Netflix and start a new era in global storytelling." Finally, Amazon has announced its own development deal with Robert Kirkman, creator of The Walking Dead comic book series. As part of the agreement, Kirkman and his production company, Skybound Entertainment, will develop streaming projects exclusively for Prime Video. "Robert is a gifted storyteller who shares our passion for elevated genre storytelling that pushes boundaries," said Sharon Tal Yguado, Head of Event Series, Amazon Studios. "Robert and the team at Skybound are some of the most innovative and fearless creatives in the business. Together, we plan to explore immersive worlds and bold ideas for Prime Video." - A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. - A current Amazon Prime subscription costs $99 per year or $11 per month. Likewise, Prime Instant Video is available as a standalone service for $9 per month. Sources: Netflix (YouTube), Netflix, AmazonPosted Sun Aug 13, 2017 at 10:30 PM PDT by: -
Coming Soon to Blu-ray: 'House of Cards,' 'Night of the Living Dead,' and More[teaser]Frank Underwood, zombies, and more are heading to Blu-ray.[/teaser] New info has been revealed for several upcoming Blu-ray releases from Sony, Mill Creek Entertainment, Paramount, Lionsgate, Broad Green Pictures, FUNimation, VCI, Shout Factory, Vinegar Syndrome, and Scorpion Releasing. Here's a full rundown of recently revealed details and title announcements: First up, FUNimation Entertainment is preparing Heroic Legend of Arsian Season 2: Dust Storm Dance for Blu-ray on September 5. Supplements will include: - Chapter VII commentary- Corporate Warrior Arslan- Textless Opening and closing songs- Trailers Order the Blu-ray Sony is bringing Netflix's House of Cards: The Complete Fifth Season starring Kevin Spacey, Michel Gill, and Robin Wright to Blu-ray on October 3. Supplements have not been announced yet. Order the Blu-ray Mill Creek Entertainment is preparing a 50th Anniversary Edition of George Romero's Night of the Living Dead starring Judith O'Deam and Duane Jones for Blu-ray on October 3. No other details have been revealed at this time. In addition, the label is set to release Brian Gilbert's Vice Versa starring Judge Reinhold, Fred Savage, and Corinne Bohrer on October 17. No other information has been announced at this time. Likewise, Mill Creek is bringing Stephen Frears' Mary Reilly starring Julia Roberts, John Malkovich, and George Cole to Blu-ray on October 17 as well. Supplements have not been detailed. Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Lionsgate is prepping the Divergent Series 3-Film Collection starring Shailene Woodley, Theo James, Ray Stevenson, Zoë Kravitz, and Miles Teller for Blu-ray on October 10. No other details have been announced so far but supplements will likely mirror those found on the previous releases. In addition, the studio is set to release John Stockwell's Armed Response starring Wesley Snipes, Anne Heche, Seth Rollins, and Gene Simmons on October 10. Supplements will include: - Inside the Minds of Armed Response Likewise, the label is bringing Starz's American Gods: The Complete Season One starring Ricky Whittle, Ian McShane, Emily Browning, and Pablo Schreiber to Blu-ray on October 17. The disc will include: - Over 2 hours of supplements Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Paramount is prepping a Director's Extended Digibook Edition of Bill Condon's Dreamgirls starring Jamie Foxx, Beyoncé Knowles, Eddie Murphy, Jennifer Hudson, Danny Glover, and Anika Noni Rose for Blu-ray on October 10. The Extended Edition will include 10 minutes of additional footage and the Blu-ray will feature a new DTS:X soundtrack. Supplements will include: - Jennifer Hudson Audition: Can He Even Sing- Jennifer Hudson Audition: What About Me- Jennifer Hudson Audition: And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going- Jennifer Hudson Screen Test: And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going Order the Blu-ray Broad Green Pictures has announced plans to release Paul Shoulberg's The Good Catholic starring Danny Glover, Zachary Spicer, John McGinley, and Wrenn Schmidt on October 24. No other details have been revealed at this time. Order the Blu-ray VCI is releasing Greydon Clark's Satan's Cheerleaders starring John Ireland, Yvonne De Carlo, Jack Kruschen, John Carradine, and Sydney Chaplin on November 7. Supplements will include: - Audio Commentary by Director Greydon Clark- Photo Gallery Likewise, the label will also bring Steve Barkett's The Aftermath starring Steve Barkett, Lynne Margulies, Sid Haig, Christopher Barkett, and Alfie Martin to Blu-ray on November 7. No other details have been announced at this time. Meanwhile, Hal Roach's One Million B.C. is due to arrive on Blu-ray later this year. Supplements have not been detailed yet, but the disc is set to feature a new master prepared after a 2K restoration of the film from the original 35mm negative. In addition, VCI is prepping Curtis Harrington's Ruby starring Piper Laurie, Stuart Whitman, Janit Baldwin, and Roger Davis for later this year as well. The disc will feature a new 2K restoration from the original camera negative, and supplements will include: - Original theatrical trailer- Audio Commentary with Director Curtis Harrington & Actress Piper Laurie- New Audio Commentary with David Del Valle and Curtis Harrington historian Nate Bell- Two Interviews with Curtis Harrington by Film Critic David Del Valle- Photo Gallery And rounding out VCI's upcoming 2017 slate will be Eddie Romero's The Twilight People starring John Ashley, Pat Woodell, Jan Merlin, Charles Macaulay, Pam Grier, and Ken Metcalfe. No other details have been announced at this time. Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Shout Factory is prepping Sarik Andreasyan's Guardians starring Anton Pampushny, Sanjar Madi, Sebastien Sisak, Alina Lanina, Stanislav Shirin, and Valeriya Shkirando for Blu-ray on December 5. Supplements will include: - New interviews with cast and crew- Character Profiles- Image Gallery- Trailers Order the Blu-ray Vinegar Syndrome has announced a trio of titles due for release in September. The lineup will include... Earl Barton's Trip with the Teacher starring Zalman King, Brenda Fogarty, Cathy Worthington, Dina Ousley, Robert Gribbin, and Jill Voight. Supplements have not been detailed yet. Gorman Bechard's Psychos in Love starring Carmine Capobianco, Patti Chambers, and Carla Bragoli. Special features have not been revealed. Stephen C. Apostolof's Orgy of the Dead starring Criswell, Pat Barrington, Lorali Hart, and William Bonner. No other details have been announced at this time. Finally, Scorpion Releasing is set to bring Tom Gries' Lady Ice starring Donald Sutherland, Jennifer O'Neill, Robert Duvall, Patrick Magee, and Jon Cypher to Blu-ray later this year. Full specs and supplements have not been detailed yet, but the disc will feature a new remaster presented in the movie's original 2.39:1 aspect ratio for the first time. You can find the latest specs for all of the titles listed above linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule.Posted Fri Aug 11, 2017 at 09:45 PM PDT by: -
Is CGI Ruining Movies?[teaser]Is the industry's use of CGI really that bad, and has the arrival of HDR/WCG only exasperated the problem?[/teaser] CGI is an essential component of modern filmmaking, but is Hollywood's increasing reliance on computer imagery actually hurting the impact of its films? It's an interesting question, and one that RocketJump Film School examined to great detail in their 2015 video essay, Why CG Sucks (Except it Doesn't). In the piece, Freddie Wong takes a look at the move industry's use of CGI, admitting the tech's occasional faults while mounting a defense for why it remains an essential and often seamless tool. Check out the video below! The central thesis of Wong's argument proposes that the reality isn't that most CGI in movies is bad, it's just that we only ever notice the effects when they're done poorly. To this end, for every terrible lifeless render of The Rock as The Scorpion King, there are countless instances of nearly flawless computer imagery that go completely unnoticed because of just how convincing they really are. Wong goes on to point out specific types of effects that computers handle particularly well, highlighting CGI elements like vehicles, buildings, water, animals, objects, and explosions used in films without most audiences even realizing it. Of course, there are still blatantly bad computer effects in some films, but when taking into account just how much CGI work is used in the industry, the terrible examples are really the exception rather than the norm. With that said, this debate is now starting to take on new relevance in the 4K Ultra HD era as HDR (high dynamic range) and WCG (wide color gamut) formats are starting to reveal even more details and, as a result, flaws in every frame. This makes some even previously effective CG work tend to standout or appear unnatural and exaggerated, including some of the fire and explosions in recent films like Mad Max: Fury Road. Hopefully filmmakers will work out these early kinks with HDR/WCG and CGI, improving the rendering and grading process to blend elements a little more smoothly. At the end of the day, however, I still tend to agree with Wong's final assessment: CGI remains a helpful tool like any other VFX technique, whether in 4K, HDR, 1080p, or standard definition on an old VHS, and while it can be overused or poorly implemented at times, even bad effects can be forgivable if they serve a well told story. Source: RocketJump Film School (YouTube)Posted Fri Aug 11, 2017 at 04:10 PM PDT by: -
'Wonder Woman' Blu-ray, 3D, & 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Dated & Detailed (UPDATED)[teaser]Gal Gadot returns as the Batman v Superman show-stealer later this year on home video.[/teaser]As previously reported, Warner Brothers is preparing 'Wonder Woman' for Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D, and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray later this year, and now the date has been set for September 19. Before she was Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot), she was Diana, princess of the Amazons, trained to be an unconquerable warrior. Raised on a sheltered island paradise, Diana meets an American pilot (Chris Pine) who tells her about the massive conflict that's raging in the outside world. Convinced that she can stop the threat, Diana leaves her home for the first time. Fighting alongside men in a war to end all wars, she finally discovers her full powers and true destiny. Each release will feature a Dolby Atmos soundtrack and supplements will include:Epilogue: Etta's Mission – Etta Candy gets the boys back together for a secret mission that could impact humanity's future.Crafting the Wonder – Wonder Woman finally comes to life in her first, breathtaking solo film. Explore the journey to create an adventure worthy of DC's greatest warrior.A Director's Vision: Themyscira: The Hidden IslandA Director's Vision: Beach BattleA Director's Vision: A Photograph Through TimeA Director's Vision: Diana in the Modern WorldA Director's Vision: Wonder Woman at WarWarriors of Wonder Woman – Witness the creation of the Amazon army as the women of "Wonder Woman" transform emotionally and physically into the world's most powerful and heroic warriors.The Trinity – Filmmakers and comic book creators explore the legend of Wonder Woman and how she stands shoulder to shoulder with Superman and Batman to create the pillars of the DC Universe.The Wonder Behind the Camera – Meet the women behind the wonder as they welcome a group of aspiring filmmakers on set for an exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime experience.Finding the Wonder Woman Within – Feel the power of Wonder Woman as award-winning poets and inspiring public figures reveal the impact and importance of DC's greatest heroine.Extended ScenesBlooper Reel You can find the latest specs for 'Wonder Woman' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under September 19. Order the Blu-ray Order the 3D Blu-ray Order the 4K Blu-rayPosted Fri Aug 11, 2017 at 06:46 AM PDT by: -
This Week in Gear: RCA Roku TVs, $40,000 B&O Speakers, and More[teaser]We've compiled the latest gear news, including new Roku TVs, premium speakers, a variable aspect ratio projector screen, and more.[/teaser] From product announcements and streaming app updates to general industry news and recent gear trends, keeping up with the latest tech news can be a daunting task. With that in mind, we're here to offer you a roundup of some of the latest gear and consumer electronics news that you may have missed. For this edition, we're covering the release of new Roku HDTVs from RCA, B&O's latest speakers, a projector screen with a variable aspect ratio feature, the addition of Netflix HDR support to the Sony Xperia XZ Premium smartphone, and the arrival of Amazon streaming on VIZIO SmartCast TV displays in Canada. So, without further ado, here's a rundown of some of the latest gear and tech news: RCA Launches New Roku HDTV Lineup Roku and RCA have announced the release of a new collection of Roku TVs. The lineup includes HDTV models ranging from 32-inches to 50-inches with suggested prices starting at $250. RCA Roku HDTVs feature integrated tuners for over-the-air broadcasts along with smart TV functionality powered by the Roku OS, offering access to more than 5,000 streaming channels and 500,000 movies and TV episodes. In addition, the TVs also include a Favorites Channel list feature, a Live TV Pause option, and a remote with channel shortcut buttons. Likewise, customers can also use the Roku iOS or Android mobile app for remote functionality with voice search, private listening, a keyboard, and the ability to share media. Here's a full rundown of the lineup along with current Amazon sale prices: RCA RTR3260 32-Inch Roku Smart LED TV - $160 RCA RTR4360 43-Inch 1080p Roku Smart LED TV - $379 RCA RTR5060 50-Inch 1080p Roku Smart LED TV - $429 Source: Roku B&O Details BeoLab 50 Loudspeakers B&O announced the latest addition to its audio lineup. The new high-end BeoLab 50 loudspeakers will be available later this month for a suggested price of $19,585 per unit or $39,710 for a pair. "The balance of BeoLab 50 is light and refined. This impressive speaker’s footprint is relatively small, making it easy to fit into people’s homes," says designer André Poulheim. The 2100 watt speakers feature silver-polished aluminium surfaces and warm oak wood lamellas. Likewise, the units include Active Room Compensation technology which uses an external microphone to measure the speaker's physical acoustic surroundings in order to apply the optimal compensation filters. In addition, the BeoLab 50 uses Acoustic Lens Technology on top of the speaker, enabling users to disperse high-frequency sound through Beam Width Control into either a 180-degree sound mode for group listening or a narrow mode for "sweet-spots." Multichannel digital audio streaming based on WiSA tech is integrated as well. Source: B&O via GlobeNewswire Screen Innovations Releases Transformer Projector Screen Screen Innovations has announced the launch of its newest projector screen option. The Transformer screen features support for variable aspect ratios without the use of a masking material. "Masking has been an integral part of projection screens for decades, because they are a simple solution to a problem; not all content has the same aspect ratio," said Skyler Meek, Director of Marketing at SI. "However," Meek continued, "they are unnecessary. Instead of covering the screen with obtrusive draping systems or masking panels, we have created a screen that transforms, seamlessly changing its shape, depending on the type of content the viewer is watching." Thanks to the screen's proprietary telescoping frame system, the Transformer can shift into different aspect ratios. Likewise, the unit uses Somfy Sonesse RS485 Quiet Motors to offer friction free motion wherever possible. Screens are available in sizes up to 235-inches and come with pre-programmed default positions for 16:9, 1.85:1, 2.35:1, and 2.40:1 aspect ratios along with the option for user adjustable customizations. Screen Innovations Transformer is now available for a starting MSRP of $18,000. Source: Screen Innovations Sony Xperia XZ Premium Smartphone Adds Netflix HDR Support Netflix has announced the addition of mobile HDR streaming support for the Sony Xperia XZ Premium smartphone. In order to watch HDR streaming content on the Xperia XZ Premium, users will need version 5.0 of the Netflix Android app along with the latest firmware for their phone. Likewise, subscribers will need the premium Netflix plan. The Sony Xperia XZ Premium is now the second smartphone to offer some form of Netflix HDR playback. Previously, Netflix added mobile Dolby Vision HDR support to the LG G6. And beyond Netflix HDR, the Xperia XZ Premium is also set to support HDR content through Amazon Prime Video. Sources: Netflix via Engadget, Sony VIZIO Brings Amazon Video to Canadian SmartCast TV Displays Following the US launch earlier this week, VIZIO has announced the addition of Amazon Video streaming to its SmartCast TV platform in Canada. "With the recent launch of SmartCast TV, one of the things we're most excited about is providing consumers with added entertainment options," said Matt McRae, Chief Technology Officer, VIZIO. "Amazon Prime Video brings an array of content option to the screen, all accessible via a traditional remote via the Amazon Prime Video button. We're glad to continue to bring in-demand content and solutions to our Canadian customers." The service now joins previously available apps like Netflix and Crackle, allowing SmartCast TV users to access Amazon Prime Video directly from their displays. Amazon Video allows users to buy or rent titles from a growing collection of movies and TV shows. Likewise, Amazon Prime subscribers can also sign into their accounts through the app to access Prime Video content. Amazon Video is now available through the SmartCast TV platform directly on VIZIO 2017 P-Series and M-Series displays. In addition, the SmartCast TV update is also set to arrive on other models, including the E-Series, later this summer. A current Amazon Prime subscription costs $99 per year or $11 per month. Likewise, Prime Instant Video is available as a standalone service for $9 per month. Source: VIZIOPosted Thu Aug 10, 2017 at 07:10 PM PDT by: -
What is LCD?Welcome to HDD's Home Theater 101 articles, where we explain emerging technologies while also recommending the very best possible A/V gadgets n' gear you can buy at your particular budget level. When it comes to new display and TV technologies in 2017, there are two options: LCD and OLED. The most common panel type in the Ultra HD TV market remains LCD. But just what exactly is an LCD TV? And what's the distinction between the tech's varying panel types and LED backlight options? Fret not! [teaser]If you don't know the difference between edge-lit LED panels and full-array local dimming panels, this guide is here to breakdown the ins and outs of LCD.[/teaser] So, without further ado, let's dive right into... HOME THEATER 101WHAT IS LCD? THE BASICS A Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) is a type of panel technology frequently used for televisions, computer monitors, laptops, and mobile devices. Though the first commercial LCD TVs were launched in the late 80s, the tech did not start to enter the mainstream market until 2004 when HDTV LCDs began to catch on as an alternative to plasmas, CRTs, rear projection, and other display types. By the end of 2007, LCDs rose to the top of the TV sales chart for the holiday season, besting the competition and cementing itself as the most popular TV tech. And unlike those other now defunct display formats, LCDs have been able to keep up with evolving picture quality standards and manufacturing costs, enabling them to support next-gen features like 4K Ultra HD resolution, high dynamic range, wide color gamuts, and 10-bit processing at mass market prices. As the name implies, LCDs use liquid crystals in order to display pixels. In simplest terms, a Liquid Crystal is essentially a substance that has some properties of a solid and some properties of a liquid. When integrated into a display panel with a light source, these liquid crystals are capable of rotating polarized light to switch an LCD TV's pixels on or off. Typically, this is accomplished by placing a polarized glass filter in front of and behind the liquid crystal used in each pixel. (Image via Wikimedia Commons) When the pixel is switched off, electricity flows through the crystal causing it to straighten. In this form, most light is prevented from exiting the second polarizer, creating a dark pixel. Meanwhile, to switch the pixel on, the flow of electricity is stopped, causing the liquid crystal to twist. This structure then enables light to flow through the two polarizing filters, resulting in a bright pixel. Subpixels with a red, blue, or green filter then give the pixel the correct color for the content being displayed. LCD PANEL TYPES Though the basics of LCD tech are similar across the board, specific variations on the process are used to achieve slightly different results, leading to a few key LCD panel types with their own strengths and weaknesses. TN (Twisted Nematic) are the most common and cheapest LCD panel types to produce and essentially work through the twisting crystal process described above. Unfortunately, these displays typically offer the weakest performance when it comes to viewing angles and contrast. With that said, they do provide some of the fastest response times, making them well suited for gaming. Meanwhile, VA (Vertical Alignment) panels use crystals arranged vertically and perpendicular to the display. This then causes them to tilt horizontally when electricity is applied allowing light to pass. VA panels feature the best contrast ratio and black level performance of any LCD panel type, making them the ideal fit for home theater use in a dark room. However, while they boast improved viewing angles compared to TN screens, color and contrast suffer at off angles so you'll want to sit directly in front of them. Also, response times tend to be slower than other LCD options. Finally, IPS (In-Plane Switching) panels feature liquid crystals arranged horizontally in a manner which causes them to turn by 90 degrees in parallel with the display when voltage is applied. This process offers superior color reproduction and the best viewing angles of any LCD type while providing response times almost on par with TN panels. With that said, these displays have weaker contrast compared to VA screens, limiting their effectiveness for home theaters. BACKLIGHT METHODS & LOCAL DIMMING Beyond primary panel types, different LCD displays can also use different methods of lighting in order to illuminate their pixels. Initially, most LCD TVs used a CCFL (cold cathode fluorescent lamp) backlight with an array of parallel CCFLs positioned behind the panel. This tech worked well but limited how thin manufacturers could make their displays. Likewise, these backlights were not as energy efficient as modern methods. Today, most LCD TVs use a form of LED (light emitting diode) lighting to illuminate the display's pixels. In fact, this method has now become so prevalent that most manufacturers actually refer to their LCD display models as LED TVs now. Two primary types of LED arrangements are currently used: direct-lit and edge-lit. In a direct-lit configuration, an array of LEDs is placed behind the panel across the entire screen. In an edge-lit system, a row of LEDs is positioned on one or more edges of the panel. Because of their size, LEDs enable manufacturers to produce thinner LCD screens. With that said, some edge-lit displays tend to produce inferior light uniformity compared to direct-lit LED or CCFL backlights. And in addition to improvements in size and power consumption, LEDs also give LCD display manufacturers the option of implementing a useful feature called local dimming. In a traditional LED LCD, some light still passes through to the pixels even when the liquid crystals are switched on to block it. This prevents typical LCD TVs from ever being able to produce true black levels. With local dimming technology, however, manufacturers can actually dim and completely turn off individual LED light sources, allowing the screen to brighten or totally darken in selected spots to coincide with the content being played. This allows the local dimming sets to create deep, inky black levels. Local dimming can be implemented with both direct or edge-lit LED panels, but direct-lit local dimming -- also referred to as full-array -- produces the best results since the LEDs are positioned behind the TV's pixels in multiple zones across the entire screen, not just strips on the sides. Local dimming performance is also affected by the number of LED zones used in a display (in general, the more the better) and the specific dimming algorithm the manufacturer has developed. QUANTUM DOTS Outside of panel types and lighting methods, other new enhancements continue to be used with LCDs, helping to keep the tech relevant and up to next-gen standards in the 4K HDR market. And that's where Quantum Dots come in. Typically used in higher-end LCD displays, quantum dots are nano-crystals that are capable of emitting different colors when exposed to light depending on their size. When quantum dots are placed on a film over an LCD backlight with blue LEDs, they convert the light to produce higher brightness levels with more accurate and realistic colors. This lets TVs with quantum dots support wide color gamuts beyond the traditional Rec. 709 color space along with higher nit output for optimal high dynamic range performance. Sony has been using a form of quantum dots in select displays under the company's Triluminous branding for several years. Likewise, Samsung currently uses new metal quantum dot technology in its flagship Q7, Q8, and Q9 display lineup branded as QLED TVs. With that said, all current LCD quantum dot displays simply use their nano-crystals to convert light from traditional LEDs for enhanced color performance rather than using the quantum dots to completely emit their own light -- but future QLED display technologies could result in emissive quantum dots without the need for an additional backlight. RECOMMENDED GEAR 55" TCL P-Series Ultra HD TV ($680) - In contention to become the top bang-for-your buck LCD Ultra HD display of 2017, this model features an LED VA panel with a direct-lit local dimming backlight and 72 zones. Other key specs include Dolby Vision and HDR10 support, and wide color gamut capabilities with NBP Photon technology. Likewise, the set uses the Roku OS smart TV platform with access to more than 4,000 streaming channels and 450,000+ movies and TV episodes. VIZIO P-Series Ultra HD HDR Home Theater Display ($1,700) - VIZIO's flagship 4K display features a VA LED panel with full-array local dimming and 128 zones. With that said, the 55-inch model uses an IPS panel, resulting in a lower contrast ratio. Other key features include Dolby Vision and HDR10 support and wide color gamut support. It should also be noted, however, that the display does not include a TV tuner. 65" Sony XBR55X900E LED Ultra HD TV ($1,998) - This Sony model features a VA LCD panel with a full-array LED local dimming backlight. Other specs include wide color gamut support with Triluminos tech, HDR10 support, and a firmware update planned for HLG playback (but sadly not Dolby Vision). Finally, the set uses the Android TV platform for smart TV apps and streaming. Samsung QN65Q9 Ultra HD QLED TV ($3,998) - Samsung's flagship 2017 Ultra HD TV uses a VA LCD panel with new metal quantum dot technology to deliver wide color gamut support and 100 percent color volume. Meanwhile, the set uses an edge-lit backlight with local dimming. Other specs include HDR10 support and HDR10+ support (but not Dolby Vision). So, there you have it. Those are the basics of LCD TVs. If you still have any questions about LCDs, please let us know in the forums! MORE HOME THEATER 101 ARTICLES -Best Budget TVs for 2017-Best UHD TVs for 2017-What is Dolby Vision?-What is HDR?-What is Dolby Atmos?-What is DTS:X-Best Sound Bars-Up-mixed: Dolby Surround vs DTS:Neural:X-Best Dolby Atmos Speakers-Best UHD Streaming Services-HDR Sucks: The Challenges & Frustrations of HDR10-4K Ultraviolet Headaches: How & Where To Redeem Digital Copies in 4K UHD Sources: LCD TVs (Wikipedia), Quantum Dots (Wikipedia), Explain That Stuff!, PC MonitorsPosted Wed Aug 9, 2017 at 08:25 PM PDT by: -
Disney Set to Remove Movies from Netflix and Launch its own Streaming Platform[teaser]The studio is planning to end its deal with Netflix.[/teaser] Disney has announced plans to end its distribution agreement with Netflix in favor of staring its own streaming platform. Likewise, the company also plans to launch a separate ESPN streaming service as well. To help make both platforms a reality, Disney is acquiring majority ownership of BAMTech, LLC -- a global leader in direct-to-consumer streaming technology. "The media landscape is increasingly defined by direct relationships between content creators and consumers, and our control of BAMTech's full array of innovative technology will give us the power to forge those connections, along with the flexibility to quickly adapt to shifts in the market," said Robert A. Iger, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company. "This acquisition and the launch of our direct-to-consumer services mark an entirely new growth strategy for the Company, one that takes advantage of the incredible opportunity that changing technology provides us to leverage the strength of our great brands." The news was revealed during a recent earnings report from the company and comes in the wake of rumors that Disney was actually looking to purchase Netflix. Currently, Netflix has an exclusive streaming deal with Disney for its films, but that agreement is now set to close at the end of 2018. Disney then plans to debut its own direct-to-consumer streaming platform in 2019. The new streaming service will become the exclusive US home for subscription-video-on-demand access to Disney and Pixar's new releases, starting with the studio's 2019 lineup which will include films like Toy Story 4 and the sequel to Frozen. In addition, the platform will also include an extensive library of catalog titles from Disney, Pixar, Disney Channel, Disney Junior, and Disney XD. Likewise, the company will be investing in a yearly slate of exclusive content for the service, including original movies, TV shows, and short-form media. Disney films are set to remain on Netflix through the end of 2018, and Marvel Netflix shows will not be affected by the new plans. Sources: Disney via BusinessWire, CNBCPosted Tue Aug 8, 2017 at 04:25 PM PDT by: -
Coming Soon to Blu-ray: Studio Ghibli Titles from GKIDS[teaser]Several titles from the Studio Ghibli library will be reissued on Blu-ray in October.[/teaser] GKIDS has announced a new partnership with Studio Ghibli. As part of the deal, GKIDS will be reissuing an assortment of Studio Ghibli titles on Blu-ray, including numerous films by celebrated director Hayao Miyazaki. The first batch of titles is set to hit stores on October 17 and will include: Spirited Away Howl’s Moving Castle Kiki’s Delivery Service My Neighbor Totoro Ponyo Princess Mononoke Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Two additional titles will then hit stores on October 24: Castle in the Sky Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Likewise, two more titles are currently available for pre-order and are set for a November 21 release: Porco Rosso The Secret World of Arrietty Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Finally, though release dates have not been announced yet, the remainder of GKIDS Studio Ghibli Blu-ray lineup is expected to include: My Neighbors the Yamadas The Cat Returns Pom Poko Tales from Earthsea Whisper of the Heart Full specs have not been detailed yet, but GKIDS has stated that each release will feature three subtitle options: English for Japanese audio (translated), English SDH, and French. Likewise, the discs will use studio approved masters and dubs. Supplements are pending, but the company posted on its Twitter that it will be trying to "earn" double dips from customers who already own previous Blu-ray versions of the titles. You can find the latest specs for all of the titles listed above linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule. Sources: GKIDS (Twitter), Variety, IndieWirePosted Mon Aug 7, 2017 at 09:00 PM PDT by:
