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Saturday, July 28, 2007

One last thing...

Before leaving for my long break, just had to post these bits of news.

The Band of Brothers Volume 1 - 5 HD DVDs (all 5 discs) are now available for sale in Japan... The TV series is released in high-definition only on HD DVD.

HD DVD DeGoGo, a Japanese blogsite, has provided some very high quality screenshots of this HD DVD release. They can be accessed via this link.

Summarily, the main feature on all 5 HD DVD discs will be presented in 1080i/p High Definition 16x9 OAR with DTS-HD 5.1 (English/Japanese) audio tracks. Only Japanese subtitles are provided.



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The Heroes: Season One HD DVD released on August 28 will boast many HD DVD-exclusive special features, both on-disc and via the web. The official site for the DVD and HD DVD release is up online. The official site has visual details to all the extras on the HD DVD and a video trailer introducing the DVD and HD DVD release.


As mentioned earlier, this blog will be updated when I resume my blogging activities late August. See you then.

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Friday, July 27, 2007

Blog Hiatus...

As the title suggests, I will be taking a pretty long break from posting starting next week, probably the entire month of August. I've had plans to travel overseas during this long break, and will definitely be back before August ends.

My pal, on the other hand, is kept busy with his work commitments and can't post as frequently as he would like to.

Hence, we've decided that this blog will not be updated during the period of my overseas trip. However, do check back in late August or early September, when I resume my blogging activities.

Lastly, do keep your news contribution coming in during the period of my absence...

Thank you for your continued support of this blog.

Wild Bear

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Weekly Roundup ~ July 21/28

First up, a summary of the past 2 weeks' HD DVD Hardware news... oldest headlines at the top
  • Toshiba's 'The Perfect Offer' For HD DVD Players Has Been Extended (Link)

  • Toshiba Ships First U.S. Notebook Computer with HD DVD-R Drive for Complete HD Experience (Link)

  • Toshiba Updates Firmware of HD-E1KTE (Hong Kong, India & Southeast Asia) to v2.0 (Link)

  • HD DVD Promotional Offers Around the World (Link)

  • Price Reduction for Xbox 360 HD DVD Player, Plus Free HD DVD titles (Link)

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Next, a summary of this past 2 weeks' HD DVD software news...

  • Early details/Details of upcoming HD DVD titles from Warner Home Video, Image Entertainment and Discovery Communications (Link)

  • HD DVDs Released Next Tuesday, July 24 (Link)

  • Details of Japanese/North American release of The Reaping HD DVD (Link)

  • Gods and Generals, Gothika, Wild Bunch - The Original Director's Cut and Wyatt Earp on HD DVD, September 25 (Link)

  • Some Early Details of Knocked Up HD DVD (Link)

  • Warner's 'Best of HD DVD' Collection, Due Sept 18 (Link)

  • Motörhead's "Stage Fright" - World's First Web-Enabled Music HD DVD (Link)
  • Motörhead's "Stage Fright" - World's First Web-Enabled Music HD DVD Screenshots (Link)

  • Details of Paramount's Next HD DVD (Link)

  • Return to House on Haunted Hill on HD DVD, October 16 (Link)

  • Details of Stanley Kubrick's Films On HD DVD (Link)

  • Full Details of Star Trek: The Original Series Season One Remastered On HD DVD (Link)

  • Twilight Zone: The Movie On HD DVD, Oct 9 (Link)

  • Alexander Revisited - The Final Cut On HD DVD Soon? (Link)

  • HD DVDs Released Next Tuesday, July 31 (Link)

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What's Been Updated?

  • Full Details of Heroes: Season 1 HD DVD (Link)

  • 300 On HD DVD Featuring HD DVD-Exclusive Extras, this July 31 (Link)

  • Latest Updates on Upcoming International HD DVD titles. (Link)

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Latest Firmware Versions and Error Code Status explanation...

Instructions on how to check the version of the firmware installed on Toshiba's HD DVD players available here.

Please note that the new web-enabled HD DVDs such as Blood Diamond, Freedom Vol. 1 and 300 would require latest firmware update for the web-enabled features to function without major hiccups. Should you face still face error messages when accessing the web-enabled features after having updated your firmware to the latest version, do check out HD DVD ASSISTANCE FOR WEB-ENABLED FEATURES (Click on the link titled Web-Enabled Features on this website) for specific explanation of each error status code.

HD DVD Players Released in the U.S./Canada

HD DVD Players/Recorders Released in Japan

HD DVD Players Released in Europe

HD DVD Players Released in Asia (Hong Kong, India & Southeast Asia)

Microsoft Xbox 360 HD DVD Add-on Player

  • Version 2.0.4636.0 (After applying May 2007 Revised Update)

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HD DVDs Released Next Tuesday, July 31

Warner's 300 will debut on HD DVD (day-and-date with the DVD) next Tuesday. This HD DVD release will tout special HD DVD-exclusive features. On the same day, Universal Studios' Hot Fuzz and Paramount's Shooter will also debut on HD DVD.

Besides that, other titles released include Darkman, Sea of Love and Shaun of the Dead.

Among all the above-mentioned titles, 300 and Darkman HD DVDs will include Dolby TrueHD 5.1 lossless audio.

You may click on the cover artwork previews below to find out the retail price, full disc details and release specifications of each title.






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'Alexander Revisited - The Final Cut' On HD DVD Soon?

Warner seems to have plans to release Alexander Revisited - The Final Cut on HD DVD in Australia, this September 26.

The details I have are pretty sketchy. Nonetheless, I believe Warner is expected to announce this North American release of this HD DVD title soon...

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'Twilight Zone: The Movie' On HD DVD, Oct 9

Warner Home Video is expected to release Twilight Zone: The Movie HD DVD on October 9. It will be a non-combo release priced at $28.99 SRP. All the DVD extras are expected to be ported over to the HD DVD version.
  • 1080p High Definition 16x9 1.85:1
  • Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (English) & Dolby Digital-Plus (5.1 English, 2.0 English, 1.0 French & 1.0 Spanish)
  • Brazilian Portuguese, English [SDH], French & Latin Spanish subtitle options

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Thursday, July 26, 2007

Some Details of Stanley Kubrick's Films On HD DVD

Warner Home Video has announced Special/Deluxe editions of Stanley Kubrick's films - 2001: A Space Odyssey, A Clockwork Orange, Eyes Wide Shut, Full Metal Jacket & The Shining - on HD DVD (day-and-date with the DVD releases), this October 23.

Each of these special/deluxe edition HD DVDs is expected to be priced at $28.99 SRP and none of them are released on HD DVD/DVD combo discs. All the bonus materials expected on the upcoming Special/Deluxe edition DVD release of these titles can also be found on these HD DVD versions.

Warner Home Video DVD Shop is currently accepting preorders at $19.95 for each of these HD DVD titles.

2001: A Space Odyssey Special Edition HD DVD (Single-Disc)
  • 1080p High Definition 16x9 2.20:1
  • Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (English) & Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 (English, French & Spanish)
  • Brazilian Portuguese, English [SDH], French, Korean, Latin Spanish subtitle options

A Clockwork Orange Special Edition HD DVD (Two Single-Sided Discs)

  • 1080p High Definition 16x9 1.66:1
  • Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (English) & Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 (English, French & Spanish)
  • Brazilian Portuguese, English [SDH], French, Japanese, Korean, Latin Spanish subtitle options

Eyes Wide Shut Special Edition HD DVD (Single-Disc)

  • 1080p High Definition 16x9 1.78:1
  • Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (English) & Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 (English, French & Spanish)
  • English [SDH], French & Latin Spanish subtitle options

Full Metal Jacket Deluxe Edition HD DVD (Single-Disc)

  • 1080p High Definition 16x9 1.78:1
  • Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (English) & Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 (English, French & Spanish)
  • Brazilian Portuguese, Dutch, English [SDH], French, Korean & Latin Spanish subtitle options

The Shining Special Edition HD DVD (Single-Disc)

  • 1080p High Definition 16x9 1.78:1
  • Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (English) & Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 (English, French & Spanish)
  • English [SDH], French & Latin Spanish subtitle options

The blog's HD DVD Release List has been updated with all the latest announcements.

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Warner Premiere's 'Return to House on Haunted Hill' on HD DVD, October 16

Warner Premiere, the direct-to-consumer production arm for Warner Bros. Pictures and Warner Home Video, has announced Return to House on Haunted Hill Unrated on HD DVD, this October 16 (day-and-date with DVD). It is expected to retail at $34.99 SRP.

Synopsis: Sarah Wolfe was the only living survivor from the massacre at the Vannacutt Mansion, but no one believed her claims that ghosts were responsible for the gruesome murders that took place there. Now her recent and questionable suicide leaves her sister, Ariel, no choice but to devote herself to finding out who - or what - was responsible for her death. Ariel discovers that Sarah sent her the diary of the sadistic Dr. Vannacutt just before she died, offering clues to the diabolical evil that resides within the house. But the diary also makes Ariel a target in a deadly treasure hunt that leads a group of unwitting victims back to the Vannacutt Mansion, reawakening the terror imprisoned within the house on the hill.

This time, the house and the evil spirits inside are out to make sure that no one leaves alive.

The main feature will be presented in 1080p High Definition 16x9 2.4:1 video with Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 (English). English [SDH], French & Latin Spanish subtitle options are provided.

Return to House on Haunted Hill Unrated HD DVD will feature interactive state-of-the-art Navigational Cinema which allows viewers to select alternate film sequences throughout the movie as it plays, enabling them to virtually create their own, personal film experience. In addition, the following extras from the DVD are also expected on the HD DVD.
  • Return to House on Haunted Hill Additional Scenes
  • Character Confessions: Return to House on Haunted Hill Confessionals
  • The Search for an Idol: Dr. Richard Hammer's Quest
  • Mushroomhead Music Video Simple Survival

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Price Reduction for Xbox 360 HD DVD Player, Plus Free HD DVD titles

Today at Comic-Con International 2007, Microsoft Corp. announced it will lower the price of the popular Xbox 360™ HD DVD Player from $199 to $179 ERP (United States only) starting Aug. 1, 2007.

In addition to the price drop, Microsoft is extending Toshiba’s highly successful “Perfect Offer” of five free HD DVD discs to Xbox 360 consumers. Previously exclusive to Toshiba HD DVD Players, with the purchase of an Xbox 360 HD DVD Player at the new low price of $179 ERP, consumers can choose five HD DVD titles for free from a selection of 15 popular titles through a mail-in offer. The offer is good between Aug. 1 and Sept. 30.

Besides that, to drive more attention to the Heroes: Season 1 HD DVD boxed set, Xbox LIVE will offer the show's pilot episode to its members for free for a limited time, courtesy of Xbox and Universal Studios Home Entertainment. Members will also be able to download trailers, teaser scenes and other promotional materials highlighting the Heroes: Season 1 boxed set on HD DVD. Xbox LIVE will also offer 300 on demand in HD starting August 14th, 2007 and is working with Warner Bros. on a "Bringing it Home" cross-promotional campaign.


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Wednesday, July 25, 2007

Toshiba Updates Firmware of HD-E1KTE to v2.0

Toshiba has released the v2.0 firmware update for HD-E1KTE HD DVD players sold in India, Hong Kong and Southeast Asia.

This firmware update improves network connectivity for supporting the download of web-enabled content associated with certain HD DVD discs, and also addresses certain disc playback and HDMI/DVI related issues identified by Toshiba.

HD DVD titles such as Blood Diamond and 300 are examples which would have web-enabled bonus materials.

Important Note: Certain HD DVD discs may contain or have the capability of downloading studio-provided, web-enabled network content. To minimize any potential compatibility and/or connectivity issues, before viewing such content, it is recommended that you perform the firmware update process to ensure that your HD DVD player is using the latest firmware version.

There are currently two known ways to get this official firmware update for the above-mentioned HD DVD players:
  1. If you have broadband internet service, you may obtain the firmware update over the internet using the Ethernet port on the back of your HD DVD Player. Instructions for configuring the Ethernet port and downloading the firmware update can be found in the owner’s manual for your HD DVD Player. BEFORE BEGINNING THE FIRMWARE UPDATE PROCESS, BE SURE TO REMOVE ANY DISCS FROM YOUR HD DVD PLAYER. DO NOT UNPLUG, TURN OFF, OR USE ANY OTHER FEATURE OF YOUR PLAYER DURING THE FIRMWARE UPDATE PROCESS.

  2. If you do not have an Ethernet-based broadband connection for your player or prefer not to use one, you may contact Toshiba Customer Service and request that a firmware update disc be sent by mail. You can update the firmware using this update disc by following the instructions provided with the disc. DO NOT UNPLUG, TURN OFF, OR USE ANY OTHER FEATURE OF YOUR PLAYER DURING THE FIRMWARE UPDATE PROCESS.

Please note that if you sent Toshiba the Firmware Update Request card included with your player, you will receive an update disc by mail from Toshiba as soon as it becomes available.

You may wish to refer to the webpage Firmware Update Information for Owners of Toshiba HD DVD Players for full details of the update and upgrading instructions direct from Toshiba (Asia Pacific), before attempting to upgrade the firmware.

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Full Details of Paramount's 'Next' HD DVD

Next HD DVD (Sept 25 / $39.99 SRP)
  • 1080p High Definition 2.35:1
  • Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (English) & Dolby Digital-Plus (5.1 English, 5.1 Spanish & 2.0 French)
  • English [SDH], Spanish, French & Portuguese subtitle options
  • Bonus materials include:
    - Making the Best Next Thing (HD)
    - Visualizing the Next Move (HD)
    - The Next "Grand Idea" (HD)
    - Two Minutes in the Future with Jessica Biel (HD)
    - Theatrical Trailer (HD)

(HD) indicates the bonus material is presented in High Definition

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Tuesday, July 24, 2007

Motörhead's "Stage Fright" - World's First Web-Enabled Music HD DVD


After scoring a first for the use of HDi interactivity on European release of CG-animated live-action Elephants Dream HD DVD, Imagion AG has authored another HD DVD title that takes the network capability of HD DVD format to another level of application.

Imagion AG and SPV have jointly announced Motörhead's "Stage Fright" on HD DVD. It will be the first music HD DVD worldwide using the HD DVD standard online functionality and featuring dynamic online content.

In addition to first class high definition picture and sound, this HD DVD strongly demonstrates the numerous interactive features like picture-in-picture video commentaries or the possibility to create individualized picture galleries and set lists. By integrating the Motörhead fan community, the HD DVD is continuously updated/refreshed with dynamic online content and exclusive specials for HD DVD users.

For instance, Motörhead’s fans can enjoy the latest news, tour dates, pictures and fan artworks, which are located on the Imagion HD DVD Server and will be integrated in the HD DVD menus via network interface. “Motörhead for Life” is an area where Motörhead fans are invited to present their newest Motörhead tattoos and thus expand the HD DVD tattoo gallery continuously with user-generated content.

Apart from these highlights, the HD DVD offers even more attractive, innovative features: An exclusive picture in picture video commentary with the three musicians contributing lots of interesting comments. With the “Create Setlist” function you can compile your own setlist and adapt the concert to your own style. The snapshot feature allows you to “take pictures” during the concert and thus enhance the disc with your personal picture gallery. In addition, the HD DVD contains the all special features found on the “Stage Fright” Double DVD.

To sum up, this HD DVD release leaves nothing out of the most complete and immersive experience possible, for any Motörhead fan. Screenshots of the various features found on the HD DVD are available for viewing on this page.

This HD DVD is now available in Germany and will be released in North America, this October 23, at $29.97 SRP.

Detailed Main Feature Presentation specs:
  • 1080p High Definition 16x9 1.78:1
  • DTS-HD High Resolution 5.1
  • No subtitles.

Detailed Bonus Material Presentation specs:

  • NTSC 480i 4x3 1.85:1
  • DTS HD Master Audio 2.0 & Dolby Digital Stereo
  • English, German, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Swedish subtitle options.
HD DVD Special Features:
  • Advanced content HD DVD (HDi)
  • Online functionality (download of new content via Internet)
  • "On the fly" menus during playback
  • Picture-in-picture video commentary with the band
  • Snapshot feature
  • "Create setlist" feature
  • Extensive bonus material including those from the 2-disc DVD

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Motörhead's "Stage Fright" - World's First Web-Enabled Music HD DVD Screenshots
















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Warner's 'Best of HD DVD' Collection, Due Sept 18

Warner Home Video has announced 3 'Best of HD DVD' Collection sets each set containing 4 HD DVD titles. All of them are due at retail on September 18 and each set is expected to be priced at $84.99 SRP. Volume 1 of the collection contains Lethal Weapon, The Road Warrior, Swordfish, Training Day HD DVDs. Vol. 2 contains The Fugitive, The Last Samurai, The Phantom of the Opera & Unforgiven HD DVDs. Vol. 3 contains Blazing Saddles, The Departed, Goodfellas & Superman: The Movie HD DVDs.


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'300' On HD DVD Featuring HD DVD-Exclusive Extras, this July 31

[May 16, 2007] Originally posted.
[July 24, 2007] Updated with link to download trailer (around 70MB) introducing 300 on DVD & HD DVD.

On July 31, 300 will be battling its way from retail stores to your homes via a HD DVD/DVD Combo disc. Each disc will be priced at $39.99 SRP.

Main Feature on HD DVD side

  • 1080p High Definition 16x9 2.4:1
  • Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (English) & Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 (English, French & Spanish)
  • English, French & Spanish subtitle options
Main Feature on the DVD side

  • 480p Standard Definition 16x9 2.4:1
  • Dolby Digital 5.1 (English, French & Spanish)
  • English, French & Spanish subtitle options

HD DVD-exclusive (not on any other release/format) extras include:

  • Bluescreen Picture-in-Picture Version: Director Zack Synder Compares the Pre-CGI-Enhanced Version to the Finished Film
  • HD DVD Game Vengeance & Valor: Lead more Spartan Warriors into battle against Xerxes’ forces and test your combat-hardened knowledge of tactics and strategy
  • Pick Your Own Favorite Scenes: Assemble your favourite clips and create your own montage
  • Web-Enabled Features: Cool mobile downloads (Electronic Transaction Required)

Extras found on the 2-disc Special Edition DVD (Day-and-date on July 31) will also be ported over with some of them presented in 1080i High Definition.

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Monday, July 23, 2007

Some Early Details of 'Knocked Up' HD DVD

Universal Studios Home Entertainment is expected to announce Knocked Up on home video release soon. Knocked Up will be released on the HD DVD/DVD Combo (day-and-date with the DVD release) and will be priced at $39.99 SRP. Bonus materials on the HD DVD/DVD Combo is expected include everything found on the upcoming International 2-disc DVD release.

Currently, the specifics of the list of bonus materials stands as follows:
  • Feature-length Audio Commentary with Director & Cast
  • U-Control Picture-in-Picture Video Commentary with Director & Cast
  • Extended Scenes & Alternate Cuts
  • Deleted Scenes
  • Gag Reel
  • Roller Coaster Documentary
  • Kuni Files
  • Kuni Gone Wild
  • Video Diaries
  • Topless Scene:
    - Restaurant
    - Web Design Company
  • Stripper Confidential
  • Raw Footage:
    - Swingers
    - Geisha House
  • Gummy The 6th Roommate
  • Katherine Heigl Audition Footage
  • Kids on the Loose
  • Beard-O-Rama
  • Directing the Director
  • Line-O-Rama
  • First Sex on Camera
  • Easter Egg (Video Feature): You Know Why I Know You're Gay (Highlight to see)

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'Harry Potter' and a few updates about this blog...

Finished reading the last Harry Potter book... Certainly a satisfying read after following the series for nearly 8 years. I'm glad that J.K. Rowling ended the series the way she intended to.

Next, I've set up a mini-forum for HD DVD-only discussions, to complement this blog. The focus of the forum is for HD DVD owners and people who are interested in getting HD DVD to share questions, information, their knowledge and experiences of HD DVD products.

We're currently putting the forum on a trial period of a few weeks. If everything works out well and there are enough interested posters after the trial period, the forum will continue be a permanent feature of this blog and we'll expand the categories of discussion as the time progresses. If not, then we'll review to see if the forum should continue.

And lastly, please read this note before deciding to register as a poster on the forum.

Newly Announced HD DVD Titles from Warner Home Video

Gods and Generals, Gothika, Wild Bunch - The Original Director's Cut and Wyatt Earp will be available on HD DVD from Warner Home Video, starting September 25. All the bonus materials previously found on the DVD release of these titles will also be ported over to their upcoming HD DVD release. All of them will be released on the non-combo HD DVD disc and each is expected to be priced at $28.99 SRP.

Currently, the detailed specs of each HD DVD title are as follows:

Gods and Generals HD DVD
  • 1080p High Definition 16x9 2.4:1
  • Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 (English)
  • English [SDH], French & Spanish subtitle options

Gothika HD DVD

  • 1080p High Definition 16x9 1.78:1
  • Dolby Digital-Plus (5.1 English, 5.1 French & 2.0 Spanish)
  • English [SDH], French & Spanish subtitle options

Wild Bunch - The Original Director's Cut HD DVD

  • 1080p High Definition 16x9 2.4:1
  • Dolby Digital-Plus (5.1 English, 2.0 French & 2.0 Spanish)
  • English [SDH], French & Spanish subtitle options

Wyatt Earp HD DVD

  • 1080p High Definition 16x9 2.4:1
  • Dolby Digital-Plus (5.1 English, 2.0 French & 1.0 Spanish)
  • English [SDH], French & Spanish subtitle options

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Thursday, July 19, 2007

Full Details of HD DVD Release of 'The Reaping'

Warner Entertainment Japan has announced The Reaping on HD DVD in Japan, this October 12 (day-and-date with the Japanese DVD release). This HD DVD title on a non-combo disc is expected to have a recommended retail price of 4,980 Yen. The French HD DVD release (Les Châtiments) of this title is also scheduled for retail on October 24.

Main feature (on the Japanese HD DVD release) will be presented in:
  • 1080p High Definition 16x9 2.35:1
  • Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (English), Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 (English) & Dolby Digital 5.1 (Japanese)
  • English, Japanese & Japanese (Dubbed) subtitle options.

Bonus materials (on the Japanese HD DVD release) include:

  • 5 featurettes covering the story, characters & Annasophia Robb's history, with a total running time of about 30 minutes.

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The North American HD DVD release will be on a HD DVD/DVD Combo disc (Oct 16 / $39.99 SRP). On top of the Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (English) audio track, Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 (English, French & Spanish) are also included with the disc. English, French, Spanish, Chinese, Portuguese and Korean subtitle options are provided. The bonus materials found on this disc will be similar to the Japanese HD DVD release. I believe the same disc would be released in Asian markets/Southeast Asian markets soon...

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Will be back next Tuesday...

This will be the final post from me for the week. I'll back next Tuesday. Taking the entire weekend off to finish reading the last Harry Potter book that will be released this Saturday.

Hence, the 'Weekly Round-up' & 'A Lighter Side...' columns will also not be updated this week... They will be updated the next weekend.

That being said, J.Z. may pop in to update the blog should there be any major HD DVD software/hardware news.

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HD DVDs To Be Released Next Tuesday, July 24

Next week's HD DVD releases includes the catalog titles from Universal Studios Home Entertainment - The Bourne Identity, In Good Company, Nutty Professor II: The Klumps, Scent of a Woman & Streets of Fire - and Out for Justice & Purple Rain from Warner Home Video. Among them, The Bourne Identity HD DVD will feature HD DVD-exclusive U-Control Picture-in-Picture Instant Access and Nutty Professor II: The Klumps & Purple Rain HD DVDs will each contain a Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (English) lossless audio track.

Besides the catalog titles, First Look Home Entertainment will also be releasing The Contract on HD DVD (day-and-date with the DVD) next Tuesday. The main feature will be presented in 1080p High Definition video with Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 & DTS audio (English). English Closed Captions and Spanish subtitle option are provided. Bonus materials include Inside The Contract Documentary, Hi-Def previews, a picture-in-picture First Look Inside Look, photo gallery and bookmarking feature.

Cover artwork of all titles from Universal Studios and Warner Home Video are provided below. You may click on the cover artwork previews below to find out the retail price, full disc details and release specifications of each respective title.







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Toshiba's 'The Perfect Offer' For HD DVD Players Has Been Extended

Toshiba (America) has announced it has extended its highly successful 5 free HD DVD disc promotion, "The Perfect Offer", until September 30, 2007.

As a result, with the purchase of any Toshiba HD DVD player, consumers will continue to be able to select five HD DVD titles for free, from a selection of 15, via a mail-in offer. Full offer details are available at http://www.toshibahddvd.com/.

Toshiba's 1080p HD- A20 is only $399 (MSRP), and for the best value in high definition, Toshiba's 1080i HD-A2 is only $299 (MSRP). The combination of an HD-A2 or HD-A20 HD DVD player and up to $150 worth of free movies is avalue that is unmatched by any other competitor. All the specifications of each HD DVD player model is available here.

Do note that in early September, Toshiba will add an enhanced performance function to its HD-XA2 and HD-A20 HD DVD players by offering the capability for users to update the firmware of their players allowing playback of film content in 1080p/24 frames per second, or 24p. Movie films are traditionally captured at 24 frames per second and Toshiba's HD DVD players will be able to maintain this frame rate allowing consumers to enjoy movies in their native form.

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Wednesday, July 18, 2007

Full Details of 'Heroes: Season 1' HD DVD

[May 19, 2007] Originally posted
[May 25, 2007] Updated with full details...
[July 18, 2007] Updated with image previews of web-enabled extras from contact sheet.

Ordinary people with extraordinary abilities link a group of complete strangers that may determine the future of the world when Heroes: Season 1 comes to DVD and HD DVD August 28, 2007 from Universal Studios Home Entertainment. This TV series will only be available in high-definition exclusively on HD DVD.

The HD DVD set will contain 7 (non-combo) HD DVD discs and will be priced at $99.98 SRP.

The main feature is presented in 1080p High Definition Widescreen 1.78:1 video with Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 (English) audio. English [SDH] & French subtitle options are provided.

Heroes: Season 1 reveals some of the show's hidden secrets with interviews, mini documentaries and extensive profiles, including:

  • Unaired Pilot: The Tim Kring Cut with Audio Commentary -- A full 73 uninterrupted minutes of the original, unaired, extended pilot episode, as Heroes' creator Tim Kring first envisioned it, with a character never seen.

  • The Making of "Heroes" - From concept to pop culture phenomenon, a behind-the-scenes look at the hottest new series on television

  • Special Effects - The secrets behind the eye-popping visuals that give the Heroes their amazing powers.

  • The Stunts - A back stage look at the show's hair-raising stunts.

  • Mind Reader - Matt Parkman's mind reading abilities reveal your inner Hero with a series of simple tests.

  • Profile of Artist Tim Sale - A look at the Eisner Award-winning comic book artist (Spiderman, Batman, Daredevil) behind much of the Manga-influenced artwork used in the show.

  • The Score - Go behind the scenes with Wendy Melvin and Lisa Coleman (of Prince's The Revolution) as they create their ASCAP Award-winning musical score.


  • 50 Deleted and Extended Scenes
In addition to the above-listed bonus materials that will be present on both DVD and HD DVD sets, the HD DVD set will also feature exclusive bonus materials. They are as follows:

  • U-Control Immersive Interactive Entertainment Experience
    - Picture-in-Picture Video Commentary on 12 episodes with show Creator Tim Kring and Executive Producer Dennis Hammer
    - Character Connections
    - Artwork Presentation: View the details of Issac's paintings and comics as you watch the episodes.
    - Helix Revealed: Discover the Hidden Helix Symbol Revealed Throughout the Series
    - Genetics Ability Test: Take the abilities test and your profile will be uploaded to NBC.com/Heroes.


  • Web-Enabled Extras
    - Get connected and sign up now to download exclusive content, trailers and updates directly to your HD DVD player.

In addition, the first preview image indicates link to Curt's My Scenes from "Knocked Up" appearing in the download center page. Does it mean that the upload and/or sharing of favorite scenes among HD DVD owners is ready for primetime?

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More Updates On Upcoming HD DVD Titles - (Updated July 18)

Warner Home Video has again confirmed at the Home Media Expo that Harry Potter is coming to HD DVD this year. The Harry Potter Years 1-5 Limited Edition Gift Set which will arrive on both DVD and HD DVD formats will be priced at $119.97 and $149.99 respectively. This Potter collection will also be bundled with special Harry Potter-themed memorabilia like bookmarks and collectible trading cards.

Warner has also confirmed that Blade Runner will be arriving on DVD and HD DVD (day-and-date) this year. There will be two release configurations on DVD - 4-disc or 5-disc set.

Warner has also announced that Return to House on Haunted Hill will be available on both HD DVD and DVD, this October 16. The HD DVD will be priced at $34.99. There will be a sneak peek of this HD DVD title at Comic-Con 2007.

Stay tuned for all the official details soon...
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In addition to the HD DVD-exclusives (Barry Manilow: Manilow Live!, Chicago/Earth, Wind & Fire: Live at the Greek & Heart: Alive in Seattle) that were released last year, Image Entertainment's COO David Borshell has mentioned in the recent issue of Home Media Magazine that there are plans to release live concerts of R. Kelly, The Moody Blues, Roy Orbison: Black and White Night on HD DVD, by December. Do stay tuned for the official details when they are finally announced...

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There will be another HD DVD release of Planet Earth available for sale by the end of July. This time, Discovery Commmunications has announced the avaiblility of Planet Earth (The version which was narrated by Award-winning actress and conservationist Sigourney Weaver) on HD DVD.

This upcoming HD DVD set released by Discovery features narration by Sigourney Weaver while the one released by Warner/BBC features narration by David Attenborough. Both are 4-discs HD DVD set. Retail listing/details available here.

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Sunday, July 15, 2007

A Lighter Side...


Last week, I briefly mentioned some of the items on my Transformers HD DVD wishlist, and had asked for reader's input with regards to what you think will make the Transformers HD DVD much more than meets the eye.

In this blogpost, I will be talking about my Transformers HD DVD wishlist with greater elaboration...

First, I would expect that Transformers (2007) be released on a 2-disc HD DVD set.

On Disc One:

The main feature has to be presented in 1080p High-Definition 2.35:1 video with Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 EX and Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (lossless) audio tracks.

I would prefer the instant access menus to fade in/out to the familiar animation of transformers transforming. Of course, the menu clicking sound also has to be customisable to feature the sound of Autobots or Decepticons transforming...

A Picture-in-Picture video commentary which contains a variety of scene-specific material not found in the production featurettes and/or making of documentaries. The material can consists of interesting production tidbits, from the cast and crew to the visual FX team, to the CGI team. Enough of the usual introduction to the filmmaking process, over-emphasizing all that pre-viz/storyboards stuff. The emphasis is interesting here not all the 'textbook' stuff that we see on most DVDs.

Scene-specific audio commentaries are also welcomed but they should be considered in addition to the video commentary.

On Disc Two:

All the video material on Disc Two should be presented in high-definition.

I don't mind all the usual filmmaking 'textbook' stuff found in the production featurettes and making of documentaries on disc two.

But preferably, I would like to see more than just how the film is translated and produced for the big screen. I want to see the examination of the phenomena... featurettes related to the Transformers phenomena like transformers toys, cartoons, animated features, avid collectors with Transformers toy/memorabilia collection and how has Transformers changed throughout the years.

In addition to the specific points above, I would also like to see
  • Bloopers
  • Deleted Scenes (if any)
  • Music videos
  • Theatrical teasers and trailers and TV spots
  • Web-enabled features - Allowing us to access various bonus materials such as a sneak peek of the next Transformers film or downloadable production diaries detailing the sequel's filming progress.

Lastly, the packaging. I do understand the need for the use of red HD DVD cases, but I'm hoping for a more exciting design for this HD DVD release. That's pretty much all for me...

Before I forget, this column 'A Lighter Side' will be back the weekend after July 22. Taking a break from blogging next weekend to finish reading the last Harry Potter book.

Saturday, July 14, 2007

Toshiba HD-A2 at $99?

Home Media Retailing has reported that Toshiba will offer its HD-A2 HD DVD player at $99 through the Home Media Expo, taking place July 16-19. Also included will be three HD DVD titles. The offer is open to the attendees of the Home Media Expo.

This offer begins on July 22 and lasts for a week. Specific details via this article.

Before I call it a day, do look out for my weekly column, A Lighter Side... tomorrow where I can discuss informally about almost everything I could think of at that moment. And it will most likely be HD DVD-related... it has to be since its HD DVD Format Blog.

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Weekly Roundup ~ July 14

First up, a summary of the past week's HD DVD Hardware news...
  • Toshiba may be launching HD DVD recorders in China in anticipation of greater interest in high-definition-related products when Beijing 2008 arrives...

  • Toshiba launching more PC notebooks in the U.S./Canada with HD DVD compatible disc drives... If interested, you may want to check out with local/online retail stores for specific models and system specifications.

  • Toshiba has released v2.0 firmware update for HD DVD Player Models HD-E1, HD-XE1 and HD-EP10, that was and currently still available for sale in the European continent. Full details via this blogpost. Instructions on how to check the firmware version currently installed in your HD DVD player is available here. Upcoming HD DVD titles such as Blood Diamond and 300 may require the latest firmware update for the web-enabled extras to work properly.

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Next, a summary of this past week's HD DVD software news...

  • Sneak Peek of Upcoming HD DVD releases (Star Trek: The Original Series Remastered and Return to House on Haunted Hill) At Comic-Con 2007 (Link)

  • Kirikou et les bêtes sauvages, Le Coeur des hommes and Les Triplettes de Belleville are HD DVD-exclusives that will be released in France, on Oct 24/31. (Link)

  • Concorde Home Entertainment has announced 10 HD DVD titles for sale in Germany on September 3. (Link)

  • Full Details of Blades of Glory HD DVD - Blades of Glory may be the first HD DVD from Paramount/DreamWorks featuring a lossless audio track.

  • Troy Unrated Director's Cut Available On HD DVD, September 18 (Link)

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Latest Firmware Versions and Error Code Status explanation...

Instructions on how to check the version of the firmware installed on Toshiba's HD DVD players available here.

Please note that the new web-enabled HD DVDs such as Blood Diamond, Freedom Vol. 1 and 300 would require latest firmware update for the web-enabled features to function without major hiccups. Should you face still face error messages when accessing the web-enabled features after having updated your firmware to the latest version, do check out HD DVD ASSISTANCE FOR WEB-ENABLED FEATURES (Click on the link titled Web-Enabled Features on this website) for specific explanation of each error status code.

HD DVD Players Released in the U.S./Canada

HD DVD Players/Recorders Released in Japan

HD DVD Players Released in Europe

Microsoft Xbox 360 HD DVD Add-on Player

  • Version 2.0.4636.0 (After applying May 2007 Revised Update)

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Toshiba (Japan) Updates RD-A600/A300 Firmware/Software to Ver02

Toshiba (Japan) has made available the first firmware update (Ver02) for the second-gen HD DVD/HDD recorders, VARDIA RD-A600/300.

The Ver02 update will be divided into 3 parts and is expected to be transmitted via NHK's terrestrial broadcast system during the week of July 16 - July 22. Details here (scroll to the bottom for the scheduled date and time of update operation).

Ver02 update improves the playback of HD DVD discs and the relevant i.Link functionality. Compatibility with and playback of DVD-RAM discs is also improved with this update.

Toshiba (Japan) has also mentioned that another update to be expected in September, would improve the network functionality of VARDIA RD-A600/300 and RD-A1.

Full details on what the update entails and instructions direct from Toshiba (Japan) are available via this link (In Japanese)

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Friday, July 13, 2007

Toshiba Launching HD DVD Recorders in China?

As we all should know by now, the global sporting event, the Olympics, will be held in Beijing, China in 2008. If I'm not wrong, the event is also expected to be broadcasted in high-definition to countries where television stations support high-definition broadcasts.

Interestingly, according to this article, Toshiba expects a surge in demand for high-definition-related products in China in 2008, and thus "will launch HD DVD recorders in China in 2008 in a bid to promote the HD DVD standard over the Blu-ray Disc (BD) standard, according to industry sources in Taiwan."

Will this have spillover effects in terms of the cost of HD DVD players/recorders manufactured in China and sold elsewhere? Will this mean 2008 is the year we'll see lower price HD DVD players across the board from more manufacturers? Since the financial risks/costs of building HD DVD players falls...

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Thursday, July 12, 2007

Full Details of Concorde's HD DVD Releases in Germany

As promised earlier, we now have the official disc specifications and cover artwork of Concorde Home Entertainment's upcoming HD DVD releases, all of which will be available at retail in Germany on September 3. What's significant is that some of the HD DVD titles being released are currently still not available on HD DVD in other parts of the world - such as The Jackal, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider - Cradle of Life, Silent Hill, etc. The HD-30 disc is used for these HD DVD titles. Optional German subtitles are provided.

Should there be any changes to the specs later, it will be reflected on this blogpost (Bookmark the link to this blogpost).

And lastly, thanks to our reader Diabolo, who had initially provided the heads-up on some of Concorde's HD DVD releases enabling me to follow-up on it and provide the official details/artwork here on this blog.

12 Monkeys HD DVD / 130 Minutes

  • 1080p High Definition 1.85:1 (16:9 Anamorphic)
  • DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 (German) & DTS-HD High Resolution 5.1 (English)
  • German subtitle

Alone in the Dark HD DVD / 95 minutes

  • 1080p High Definition 2.35:1 (16:9 Anamorphic)
  • DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 (German) & DTS-HD High Resolution 5.1 (English)
  • German subtitle

Brothers Grimm HD DVD / 119 minutes

  • 1080p High Definition 1.85:1 (16:9 Anamorphic)
  • DTS-HD Master Audio 6.1 (German) & DTS-HD High Resolution 5.1 (English)
  • German subtitle

Lara Croft: Tomb Raider / 100 minutes

  • 1080p High Definition 2.35:1 (16:9 Anamorphic)
  • DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 (German) & DTS-HD High Resolution 5.1 (English)
  • German subtitle

Lara Croft: Tomb Raider II - Cradle of Life HD DVD / 115 minutes

  • 1080p High Definition 2.35:1 (16:9 Anamorphic)
  • DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 (German) & DTS-HD High Resolution 5.1 (English)
  • German subtitle

Phantom of the Opera HD DVD / 141 minutes

  • 1080p High Definition 2.35:1 (16:9 Anamorphic)
  • DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 (German) & DTS-HD High Resolution 5.1 (English)
  • German subtitle

The Jackal HD DVD / 122 minutes

  • 1080p High Definition 2.35:1 (16:9 Anamorphic)
  • DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 (German) & DTS-HD High Resolution 5.1 (English)
  • German subtitle

Silent Hill HD DVD / 121 minutes

  • 1080p High Definition 2.35:1 (16:9 Anamorphic)
  • DTS-HD Master Audio 6.1 (German) & DTS-HD High Resolution 5.1 (English)
  • German subtitle

Underworld HD DVD / 133 minutes

  • 1080p High Definition 2.35:1 (16:9 Anamorphic)
  • DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 (German) & DTS-HD High Resolution 5.1 (English)
  • German subtitle

We Were Soldiers HD DVD / 138 minutes

  • 1080p High Definition 2.35:1 (16:9 Anamorphic)
  • DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 (German) & DTS-HD High Resolution 5.1 (English)
  • German subtitle

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Wednesday, July 11, 2007

Toshiba (Europe) Updates Firmware of HD-E1, HD-EP10 & HD-XE1 to v2.0

Toshiba Europe has released the v2.0 firmware update for HD-E1, HD-EP10 & HD-XE1 HD DVD players sold in the European region.

Similar to the v2.0 firmware updates that was released for HD-A2, HD-A20 and HD-XA2 HD DVD players, this firmware update serves the purpose of improving network connectivity for supporting the download of web-enabled network content associated with certain HD DVD discs, and also addresses certain disc playback and HDMI/DVI related issues identified by Toshiba.

HD DVD titles such as Blood Diamond and 300 are examples which would have web-enabled bonus materials.

Important Note: Certain HD DVD discs may contain or have the capability of downloading studio-provided, web-enabled network content. To minimize any potential compatibility and/or connectivity issues, before viewing such content, it is recommended that you perform the firmware update process to ensure that your HD DVD player is using the latest firmware version.

There are currently two known ways to get this official firmware update for the above-mentioned HD DVD players:
  1. If you have broadband internet service, you may obtain the firmware update over the internet using the Ethernet port on the back of your HD DVD Player. Instructions for configuring the Ethernet port and downloading the firmware update can be found in the owner’s manual for your HD DVD Player. BEFORE BEGINNING THE FIRMWARE UPDATE PROCESS, BE SURE TO REMOVE ANY DISCS FROM YOUR HD DVD PLAYER.

  2. If you do not have an Ethernet-based broadband connection for your player or prefer not to use one, you may contact Toshiba Customer Service and request that a firmware update disc be sent by mail. You can update the firmware using this update disc by following the instructions provided with the disc. DO NOT UNPLUG, TURN OFF, OR USE ANY OTHER FEATURE OF YOUR PLAYER DURING THE FIRMWARE UPDATE PROCESS.

Please first refer to the document Firmware Update Information for Owners of Toshiba HD DVD Players: Models HD-E1 and HD-XE1 [PDF File, In English] for full details of the update and upgrading instructions direct from Toshiba (Europe), before attempting to upgrade the firmware.

The above PDF document is also available in French, German, Italian & Spanish.

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Tuesday, July 10, 2007

Full Details of 'Blades of Glory' HD DVD

Blades of Glory HD DVD (Aug 28 / $39.99 SRP)

  • 1080p High Definition 1.85:1
  • Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 (English, French & Spanish)
  • English [SDH], French, Portuguese & Spanish subtitle options
  • Bonus materials include - (HD denotes the special feature is presented in high-definition):
    - Return to Glory: The Making of "Blades" (HD)
    - Celebrities On Thin Ice (HD)
    - Cooler Than Ice: The Super-Sexy Costumes of Skating (HD)
    - Arnett & Poehler - A Family Affair (HD
    - Twenty Questions with Scott Hamilton (HD)
    - Hector: Portrait of a Psychofan (HD)
    - Deleted Scenes (HD)
    - Music Video "Blades of Glory" by Bo Bice
    - Gag Reel (HD)
    - Alternate Takes
    - Moviephone unscripted with Will Ferrell, Jon Heder and Will Arnett
    - MTV Interstitials & Photo Galleries

Check out our HD DVD Release List for information on other upcoming HD DVD titles.

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Previews of Upcoming HD DVDs At Comic-Con 2007


On the first day of Comic-Con - July 26, it is official that one can expect a preview of Star Trek: The Original Series (Remastered) along with the latest details on the upcoming HD DVD from CBS/Paramount and New Wave.

Star Trek, The Original Series: As You’ve Never Seen It—Be here for the worldwide debut of Star Trek, The Original Series, fully remastered and on HD DVD, along with extras including never-before-seen, behind-the-scenes 8mm footage. "Star" panelists include first time-ever Comic-Con attendee Rod Roddenberry, Billy Blackburn (Star Trek, The Original Series extra-extraordinaire), Ryan Adams and David Grant (CBS DVD). and Cory Watson and Jason Hillhouse (New Wave) and more.

The second day - July 27, there would be official news and previews of the HD DVD release of Warner Premiere's direct-to-video feature film, Return To House on Haunted Hill.

Joel Silver: Return To House on Haunted Hill and Moonlight—Acclaimed producer Joel Silver (The Matrix Trilogy, V For Vendetta, and the upcoming The Invasion and Speed Racer) and Spanish director Victor Garcia (El Ciclo, 30 Days of Night Internet prequel series) take you back to the infamous Hill House with Return to House on Haunted Hill, out on DVD October 16. For this highly anticipated thrill ride—the sequel to the 1999 number-one box office hit House on Haunted Hill—Silver and Garcia assembled a team of Academy Award–winning special effects wizards to bring the terrifying frights and sounds of the Hill House back to shocking life. Catch a world premiere sneak peek into the new horrors that await you within the House and preview the never before seen "Navigational Cinema" technology that will be featured on the HD DVD version of the release, allowing you, the viewer, to control the nightmare. The panel also includes the stars of the film: Jeffrey Combs (Re-Animator), Amanda Righetti (CSI: Crime Scene Investigation), and Cerina Vincent (Cabin Fever).

Please note that this blogpost will be continually updated until July 26. Should there be any new HD DVD-related events added or changes being made to existing ones, they will be reflected in this blogpost.

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