Kenneth Branagh's Adaptation of 'The Magic Flute' On HD DVD in Japan, January 25

[Japan]

Kenneth Branagh's big-screen adaptation of Mozart's The Magic Flute will be available to own in high-definition exclusively on HD DVD, come January 25, 2008, as part of the 2-disc HD DVD/DVD set. The set will contain both the standard definition version of the film on a DVD and a high-definition version on the HD DVD. The set is expected to be priced at 4,700 Yen (excluding relevant taxes).

Main feature on the HD DVD disc will be presented in:

• 1080p High Definition 16x9 2.35:1 (MPEG-4/AVC Encode)
• Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 (English)
• Japanese subtitle option

Supplemental materials will only be found on the DVD disc and it includes:

• Making of/Cast & Crew Interviews (50 minutes)
• Interview with the Director (5 minutes)
• TV spots & Trailers for the film's Japanese theatrical debut
• Cast & Crew Filmographies

Additional memorabilia includes a limited edition 16 page booklet. According to the publisher, this HD DVD/DVD set is available for a limited time, after which only the standard DVD release will be sold in stores.