Universal Pictures' 'The Kingdom' On HD DVD, December 23

Universal Studios Home Entertainment has finally announced that The Kingdom will be available to own in high-definition exclusively on the HD DVD/DVD Combo disc, from December 23, for $39.98 SRP each. Specific details follow...

Main feature on the HD DVD side will be presented in

• 1080p High Definition Widescreen 2.35:1
• Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 (English & Canadian French)
• English [SDH] & French subtitle options

Similar to the early information we've posted weeks ago, bonus material present on both HD DVD & DVD sides include:

• Feature Commentary with Director Peter Berg
• Deleted Scenes
• Character by Character: The Apartment Shootout
• Constructing the Freeway Sequence
• Creating The Kingdom
• History of The Kingdom: An Interactive Timeline

HD DVD-exclusive bonus material include:

• U-Control
  - The Mission Dossier: Surveillance
  - Picture-in-Picture Commentary
  - Character by Character: The Apartment Shootout
• Web-enabled Features (My Scenes Sharing, etc.)

Firmware Update Allowing High Bit Rate Audio Over HDMI (for HD-XE1) Released

Toshiba has released the latest firmware updates for HD-E1, HD-EP10 and HD-XE1. The resulting firmware version after this update will be v2.7.

This firmware update covers the following items.

• High Bit Rate Audio functionality ( for HD-XE1)
• Improves support for 1080p/24Hz OUTPUT (for HD-XE1 and HD-EP10)
• Additional OSD languages, improved network connectivity supporting the download of web-enabled network content associated with certain HD DVD discs
• Addresses certain disc playback and HDMI/DVI related issues identified by Toshiba.

If you're new to this entire firmware update routine, you may want to check this out. This PDF document explains to you how you can obtain the latest firmware update (in this case, version 2.7) for your HD-E1, HD-EP10 and HD-XE1 HD DVD players. Installation instructions are also provided in the same document.

If you're already familiar with entire firmware update routine, Toshiba has provided the update information sheets that indicate to you what exactly has been changed after you have installed the update on your HD DVD player. For HD-XE1

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

v1.3 Firmware Update for HD-EP30/EP35 Released

Toshiba has released the latest firmware updates for HD-EP30 & HD-EP35. The resulting firmware version after this update will be v1.3.

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

If you're new to this entire firmware update routine, you may want to check this out. This PDF document explains to you how you can obtain the latest firmware update (in this case, version 1.3) for your HD-EP30 and HD-EP35 HD DVD players. Installation instructions are also provided in the same document.

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

German HD DVD Release of 'The Assassination of Jesse James' Announced

[Germany]

German HD DVD Release of The Assassination of Jesse James (2007) will be available to own come February 29, 2008.

Main feature on the disc is presented in 1080p High-Def 2.4:1 with Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 audio tracks. Refer to this article from AreaDVD.de for further details of this HD DVD release.

Along with Clubland and L.A. Confidential, we expect that Warner will be announcing this title on HD DVD to be released in other countries soon.

HD DVDs Released This Week...

[North America]

Click on each of the cover artwork attached below for further details.

Newly-Announced Anime & Concert HD DVDs

[North America]

In June this year, Warner Home Video has mentioned that there are plans to release the sequel to Appleseed - Appleseed: Ex Machina - on HD DVD.

Warner has now finally confirmed that anime film Appleseed: Ex Machina will be available to own in high-definition on HD DVD/DVD Combo disc, from March 11, 2008, for $35.99 SRP each. Stay tuned for further details...

Based on various sources, it seems Warner is expected to announce the North American HD DVD release of Clubland and L.A. Confidential pretty soon.

*****

WEA of Warner Music Group has announced that DISPATCH: ZIMBABWE - Live at Madison Square Garden will be available to own in high-definition on the HD DVD/DVD Combo disc, January 29, for $29.99 SRP each. Extras on the disc are likely to mirror that of the standard DVD release that will be available for sale, starting this December, via this official website.

'Biohazard' & 'Les Aventuriers' On HD DVD In Japan, this December 21

[October 2, 2007] Originally posted.
[November 22, 2007] Audio spec of Les Aventuriers HD DVD updated - Dolby Digital-Plus Mono, instead of dts-HD Mono.

Biohazard/Resident Evil was one of the two HD DVDs that Toshiba bundled with its first-generation HD DVD players, when they were first launched in Japan last year. And it has never been released as a standalone HD DVD title (with bonus materials) in Japan until this announcement...

From December 21, both Biohazard (Resident Evil) and the 1967 French film Les Aventuriers will be available to own in high-definition exclusively on HD DVD in Japan. The specific details are as follows...

Biohazard/Resident Evil (2002) / 101 minutes
RRP: 5,040 Yen

• 1080p High Definition 16x9 1.85:1
• DTS-HD 5.1 (English), DTS-ES 5.1 (Japanese) & DTS-HD 2.0 (Audio commentary track)
• Japanese subtitles
• Bonus materials include
  - Audio Commentary with cast and crew including Paul Anderson and Milla Jovovich
  - Production featurettes
  - Trailers and TV spots of the film's Japanese theatrical premiere

Les Aventuriers 40th Anniversary Premium Edition / 113 minutes
RRP: 5,040 Yen

• 1080p High Definition 16x9 2.35:1
• Dolby Digital-Plus Mono (French & Japanese)
• Japanese subtitles
• Bonus materials include
  - Interview with director Robert Enrico, recorded at the time of the original theatrical release (10 mins)
  - Interview with Joanna Shimkus at Cannes Film Festival (11 mins)
  - Featurette on composer Francois de Roubaix (26 mins)
  - Various trailers/teasers
  - Cast & crew bios
  - Alternate opening and ending (2 mins each and both are presented in high-definition)

'Flyboys', 'Lord of War', 'Reservoir Dogs' and more on HD DVD

[Netherlands]

Dutch FilmWorks has announced that Amazing Planet, Flyboys, Lord of War, Reservoir Dogs, Running Scared, Saw III & Underworld (Theatrical version) will be available to own in high-definition on HD DVD, come November 27, in the Netherlands. Specific details follow with cover artwork attached... please note that these details may still be subject to further changes.

National Geographic - Amazing Planet (€29.99 RRP)

• 1080p High Definition OAR (16x9)
• dts-HD 2.0 (English)
• Dutch subtitle option

Flyboys (€29.99 RRP)

• 1080p High Definition 2.35:1 (16x9)
• dts-HD 5.1 (English)
• Dutch subtitle option
• Supplemental material include:
  - Interviews with cast & crew
  - Behind the scenes
  - Liner Notes
  - Photo Gallery
  - TV-spots
  - Film Clips
  - Original Trailers

Lord of War (€20.99 RRP)

• 1080p High Definition 1.85:1 (16x9)
• dts-HD 5.1 (English)
• Dutch subtitle option
• Supplemental material include:
  - Behind the scenes
  - Trailers & TV commercials
  - Deleted Scenes
  - Interviews with Nicolas Cage
  - Photo gallery
  - Liner Notes

Reservoir Dogs (€20.99 RRP)

• 1080p High Definition 2.35:1 (16x9)
• dts-HD 5.1 (English)
• Dutch subtitle option
• Supplemental material includes
  - Radio Show
  - Trailer
  - Interviews with Cast and Crew
  - Tributes & Dedications
  - Critics Commentary
  - Interview with George Baker
  - Videoclip Little Green Bag
  - TV commercial George Baker Selection

Running Scared (€20.99 RRP)

• 1080p High Definition 2.35:1 (16x9)
• dts-HD 5.1 (English)
• Dutch subtitle option
• Supplemental material includes
  - Director’s audio commentary track
  - Trailer
  - Film clips
  - Interviews cast & crew
  - Behind the scenes
  - Through the looking glass
  - Photo gallery
  - Liner Notes

SAW III (€29.99 RRP)

• 1080p High Definition 1.78:1 (16x9)
• dts-HD 5.1 (English)
• Dutch subtitle option
• Supplemental material includes
  - The Traps of SAW 3
  - The Details of Death: The Props of Saw 3
  - Daren’s Diary: Anatomy of a Director
  - Deleted Scenes
  - Trailer
  - Photo Gallery
  - Liner Notes

Underworld - Theatrical Cut (€20.99 RRP)

• 1080p High Definition 1.78:1 (16x9)
• dts-HD 5.1 (English)
• Dutch subtitle option
• Supplemental material includes
  - Behind the Scenes
  - Interviews with Cast & Crew
  - Documentary: Fang vs. Fiction
  - Trailer
  - Outtakes
  - Featurettes
  - Music Video
  - TV Spots

A Pair of Firmware Updates...

Firmware Update for Toshiba HD-A1/D1 & HD-XA1 (North America) to Version 2.4

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

Full details of this firmware update can be found here.

*****

Firmware Update for Toshiba HD-A3/D3, HD-A30 & HD-A35 to Version 1.3

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

Full details of this firmware update can be found here.

'1408' On HD DVD In Germany, this February 25 (Updated Dec 27)

[Nov 15, 2007] Originally posted
[Nov 19, 2007] Disc details updated and cover artwork attached.
[Dec 27, 2007] A new release date for this German HD DVD release is currently pending confirmation.

Zimmer 1408/1408 - Director's Cut will be available to own in high-definition on HD DVD in Germany soon. Specific details follow...

• 1080p High-Definition 2.35:1 (Director's Cut)
• DTS-HD 5.1 (English & German)
• Dolby Digital 5.1 (English & German)
• German subtitle option
• Bonus materials include but may not be limited to:
  - John Cusack on 1408
  - Inside Room 1408
  - Feature Commentary by Mikael Hafstrom and Writers Scott Alexander and Larry Karaszewski
  - The Secrets of 1408
  - Deleted Scenes with Optional Commentary
  - Theatrical trailer
  
  

Click here for a list of other territorial-exclusive HD DVD releases.

HD DVDs Released This Week

[North America]

Click on each of the cover artwork attached below for further details.

Promotional Events Celebrating the HD DVD Premiere of 'Star Trek: TOS Remastered'

[North America]

Virgin/Toshiba to Give Away Free HD DVD Players (Valued at $299)

• This will happen on November 20 at Virgin Megastore - Times Square and Virgin Megastore - Union Square, when you are among the first 120 customers (at Virgin Megastore - Times Square) or first 30 customers (at Virgin Megastore - Union Square) who purchased the Star Trek: The Original Series Season 1 Remastered HD DVD/DVD Combo disc set. Besides this HD DVD player giveaway, there are also goodie bags being given away at the event too... to the first few hundreds. Complete details of this event can be found here.

Phaser Promotion for HD DVD Release

• Toshiba has teamed up with CBS Home Entertainment, with plans to offer purchasers of both the Star Trek: The Original Series Season One HD DVD/DVD boxed set and any Toshiba HD DVD player an exclusive, limited edition "Star Trek" Phaser remote control that will operate Toshiba's HD DVD players. This promotion is planned to coincide with the launch of the "Star Trek" HD DVD boxed set on November 20.
  
  
• This promotion runs from the November 20, 2007 to February 29, 2008, and it requires participants to purchase both the HD DVD set and the Toshiba HD DVD player within that time frame. The form to fill out will be available with the Star Trek HD-DVD Combo boxed set. Save those receipts! You will be required to provide proof of purchase to participate in the promotion. Complete details of the promotion can be found here.

Full details of 'No Reservations' & 'The Brave One' HD DVD

[North America]

The Brave One (2007) will be available to own on a HD DVD/DVD Combo disc, come February 5, 2008, for $35.99 SRP each. Full disc specifications for this HD DVD can be found here.

A week later, on February 12, No Reservations will also be available to own on a HD DVD/DVD Combo disc for $35.99 SRP each. Full disc specifications for this HD DVD can be found here.

Firmware Updates for First & Second Gen HD DVD Players Sold In Japan

Firmware Update for Toshiba HD-XA1 (Sold in Japan) to Version 2.4

This firmware update is reportedly suppose to improve disc playback and network functionality supporting the download of web-enabled network content associated with certain HD DVD discs.

Full details of this firmware update can be found here.

*****

Firmware Update for Toshiba HD-XF2 & HD-XA2 (Sold in Japan) to Version 2.7

Similar to the v2.7 firmware update released for the HD-A20 and HD-XA2 earlier, this firmware update improves support for 1080p/24Hz OUTPUT (HD-XA2 only), improves network connectivity 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. In addition, this firmware update provides High Bit Rate Audio functionality for the HD-XA2 player. When integrated through the HDMI connection to a 7.1 capable multi-channel A/V receiver, High Bit Rate Audio has the potential to offer the latest in high definition surround sound.

Full details of this firmware update can be found here.

'Hairspray' & 'In the Land of Women' On HD DVD in Italy...

[Nov 5, 2007] Originally posted.
[Nov 14, 2007] Updated with further details.
[Nov 15, 2007] Confirmation plus updated details.

Mondo Home Entertainment has now confirmed that both Hairspray (2007) and In the Land of Women (2007) are now scheduled for an Italian HD DVD release, before the year ends. Click on the weblinks above for each HD DVD title's retail listing on Mondo's retail website.

Hairspray (2007) will be available to own in high-definition on single-disc HD DVD, come December 12, for € 29,90 RRP. Main feature is expected to be presented in 1080p High-Definition 16x9 2.35:1 with DTS-HD Master Audio (7.1 English & 5.1 Italian). Italian (HoH) subtitles are provided. Bonus material (*) includes but may not be limited to:

• Feature-length audio commentary from director and choreographer Adam Shankman, star Nikki Blonsky and producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron
• Deleted scenes with audio commentary from director and choreographer Adam Shankman and star Nikki Blonsky
• “Step By Step: The Dances of Hairspray” featurette offering how-to dance instruction
• “Hairspray Extensions” featurette

Another film, Il bacio che aspettavo/In the Land of Women (2007), starring Adam Brody, Kristen Stewart, Meg Ryan and Olympia Dukakis, will also be available to own in high-definition on HD DVD, come December 5, for € 29,90 RRP. Main feature will be presented in 1080p High-Definition 2.35:1 with DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 (English & Italian). Italian (HoH) subtitles are provided. Bonus material (*) includes but may not be limited to:

• Behind-the-scenes footage/featurette
  
• Interviews with the cast
  
• Trailers

(*) Subject to change.

Details of 'Death Proof' On HD DVD in Germany

As posted earlier, Death Proof will be available to own in high-definition on HD DVD in Germany, come March 23, 2008 (instead of January 7). Specific details follow...

• 1080p High-Definition 2.35:1
• DTS-HD 5.1 (English & German)
• Dolby Digital 5.1 (English & German)
• German subtitle option
• Bonus materials include but may not be limited to:
  - Stunts on Wheels: The Legendary Drivers of Death Proof
  - Introducing Zoe Bell
  - Kurt Russell As Stuntman Mike
  - Finding Quentin's Gals
  - The Uncut Version of "Baby, It's You" Performed by Mary Elizabeth Winstead
  - The Guys of Death Proof
  - Quentin's Greatest Collaborator: Editor Sally Menke
  - Original trailer

HD DVDs Released This Week... (Updated)

[North America] Do note that the suggested retail price for Ocean's Thirteen HD DVD/DVD Combo disc has been and still is $35.99, not $39.99. This new pricing is expected to be applicable to all new HD DVD/DVD Combo titles (from Warner Home Video only) released in the future.

Firmware Update v2.7 For HD-A2/D2, HD-A20, HD-XA2 Is Available Now

This firmware update improves support for 1080p/24Hz OUTPUT (HD-A20 & HD-XA2 only), improves network connectivity 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. In addition, this firmware update provides High Bit Rate Audio functionality for the HD-XA2 player. When integrated through the HDMI connection to a 7.1 capable multi-channel A/V receiver, High Bit Rate Audio has the potential to offer the latest in high definition surround sound.

Click here for full instructions on how to obtain and install the firmware update.

On a side note, a firmware update of similar nature (Streaming of High Bit Rate Audio over HDMI) could be expected in the next couple of weeks for the HD-XA2 sold in Japan and HD-XE1 sold in various parts of Europe.

'Rain in the Mountains' & 'Channels' - Vanguard Cinema's High-Def Debut On HD DVD

Vanguard Cinema has announced that both Channels and Rain in the Mountains will be among its first wave of HD DVD releases.

Channels (2007) will be available to own in high-definition exclusively on HD DVD, starting January 22 (Day-and-date with the DVD release), for $29.95 SRP each. Full disc details follow...

• 1080p High-Definition 16x9
• Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 (English)
• Bonus content includes:
  - Edward Asner Interview
  - Directors Commentary
  - Deleted Scenes & Outtakes
  - Interview With Composer Rossano Galante

Rain in the Mountains will be available to own in high-definition exclusively on HD DVD, come February 26 (Day-and-date with the DVD release), for $29.95 SRP each.

New Announcements from Warner Home Video (Updated)

[North America]

• Warner Home Video has announced The Invasion (2007) to be available on HD DVD/DVD Combo disc, starting January 8. Each copy is expected to be priced at $35.99 SRP. Click here for full disc specs.
• No Reservations (2007) will also be available to own in high-definition on the HD DVD/DVD Combo disc, come February 12, for $35.99 SRP each.
• Our HD DVD Release List is now updated with the latest HD DVD announcements.
  

[United Kingdom] Warner Home Video (UK) has announced that The Brave One (2007), starring Jodie Foster, will be available to own on HD DVD, come January 21. Special features include:

• Featurette I Walk The City (22 mins)
• Additional Scenes (8 mins)

Nov 2007 Xbox 360 HD DVD Player Update...

The Nov 2007 HD DVD Update for Xbox 360 HD DVD Player is now available for download via Xbox Live. After the update has been installed, the HD DVD player application should now be version 2.0.4641.

This update involves improvements in title compatibility (such as Hot Fuzz HD DVD/DVD combo) and network functionality.

Instructions on how to download the update via Xbox Live can be found on this website.

Source: Andy Pennell's Blog

Firmware Update (to v1.1) for HD-EP30 & HD-EP35 Is Now Available

This firmware update, for the HD-EP30/EP35 HD DVD players, improves network connectivity for supporting the download of web-enabled network content associated with certain HD DVD discs, improves certain video and audio processing capabilities, and also addresses certain disc playback and HDMI/DVI related issues identified by Toshiba. Refer to the FAQ section in this PDF document for further details.

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.

If you're new to this entire firmware update routine, you may want to refer to this downloadable PDF document provided by Toshiba. It explains to you how you can obtain the latest firmware update (in this case, version 1.1) for your HD-EP30/EP35 HD DVD players. Installation instructions are also provided in the same document.

Do note that starting from the v2.5 firmware update for HD-E1/EP10/XE1 which was released back in October, the ISO image file of every new firmware update will be available for download via this website. This ISO image file allows you to create your own firmware update CD - another alternative to update your HD DVD player. Instructions on how to go about updating your HD DVD player this way is in the same PDF document.

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

'Herbert Grönemeyer - 12 Live' On HD DVD In Germany, November 16

EMI Music Germany has announced that highlights of Herbert Grönemeyer's concert tours held in June this year will be available to own in high-definition exclusively on the Herbert Grönemeyer - 12 Live 3 disc HD DVD/DVD set (2 DVDs + 1 HD DVD), starting November 16. The HD DVD will be accompanied by 2 DVDs which contains the standard definition version of the main feature plus other bonus material such as an audio commentary.

On the single HD DVD disc in the set, expect the main feature to be presented in full HD with DTS-HD 7.1 (German) audio. Bonus materials will also be presented in high-definition on that HD DVD disc.

HD DVD-exclusive features include:

• Picture-in-Picture Video Commentary
• Includes dynamicHD web connectivity - Access various title-specific bonus contents/feature via the Internet. Contents available will be continuously updated.

Official press release here, and Amazon.de has further details.

La Môme On HD DVD In France, This November 22

TF1 Video has announced La Môme (La Vie En Rose) will be available to own in high-definition on HD DVD, this November 22. There will be 2 HD DVD release configurations and specific details follow... Audio specs and list bonus materials updated...

La Môme HD DVD (29.99 Euros)

• 1080p High Definition 16x9 2.35:1
• Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (French)
  dts-HD 5.1 (French)
• English & French (HoH) subtitle options.
• Audio commentary by the film's cast
• Theatrical Trailer in HD
• Interactive Viewing/Playback with more information on the characters, story and music.
• HDi Web-enabled features - Access regularly updated information about the movie
• Adjustable English subtitle option - The appearance (size and position) of the English subtitle option can be adjusted.

Bonus material on the accompanying DVD:

• Making of
• Deleted scenes with director's commentary
• New York theatrical premiere
• Featurettes that look at the life of the late Edith Piaf
  

La Môme Limited Collector's Edition (HD DVD Version) (49.99 Euros)

• 1 HD DVD (Main Feature)
• 1 DVD (Bonus Materials)
• 1 OST CD
• 1 Collectible Booklet
• Exclusive 2008 Calender
• A song sheet - "Hymne à l'amour"

'The Last Legion' Arrives On HD DVD, January 30

In Spain, La Última Legión/The Last Legion (2007), starring Colin Firth, Ben Kingsley and Aishwarya Rai, will be available to own in high-definition exclusively on HD DVD, come January 30, 2008 (instead of Dec 5 or Jan 9, as reported previously). Specific details follow...

La Última Legión/The Last Legion HD DVD

• 1080p High-Definition 16x9 2.35:1
• dts-HD 5.1 (Castilian/Spanish)
  Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 (English, Castilian/Spanish, Catalan)
• Castilian/Spanish & Catalan subtitle options
• Bonus material includes but may not be limited to:
  - Deleted scenes
  - Interviews
  - Filmographies
  - Making of
  - Trailer

Early Details of 'The Kingdom' HD DVD/DVD Combo disc

The Kingdom is expected to arrive exclusively on a HD DVD/DVD Combo disc soon, most probably before the year is out. The disc is expected to be priced at $39.98 SRP each.

Bonus material on the disc includes, but may not be limited to:

• U-Control Picture-in-Picture (HD DVD-exclusive)
• Web-enabled Features (HD DVD-exclusive)
• Feature Commentary with Director Peter Berg
• Creating the Kingdom
• History of the Kingdom (1930 - Present)
• Deleted scenes
• Constructing the Freeway Sequence
• Surveillance

Some Release Date Adjustments...

• Method Man: Live from the Sunset Strip HD DVD - From December 11 to January 22
• Twister Special Edition HD DVD - From January 8 to May 6
• 4 IMAX films HD DVDs - Coral Reef Adventure, Mystery of the Nile, Fighter Pilot: Operation Red Flag and The Alps - from January 8 to April 8

HD DVDs Released Today

'White Noise 2' Arrives On HD DVD, Jan 8

Universal Studios Home Entertainment has announced that White Noise 2 will be available to own in high-definition exclusively on the HD DVD/DVD Combo disc, come January 8, for $39.98 SRP each. Specific details for the HD DVD side of the disc are as follows...

White Noise 2

• 1080p High Definition Widescreen 2.35:1
• Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (English)
  Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 (English & Spanish)
• English [SDH] & French subtitle options
• Bonus material present on both HD DVD & DVD sides, includes:
  - Deleted Scenes: More than 30 minutes worth of deleted scenes
  - Exploring Near-Death Experience: A look at the truth behind NDE, the well-documented phenomenon that inspired the film.
  - The Making of White Noise 2: From concept to completion, this featurette is filled with interviews, b-roll and behind-the-scenes footage that showcase the cast, the crew and the craziness it took to bring this frightening tale to life.
  - Journey Into Madness: Star Nathan Fillion and the film's location and witchcraft expert Barbara Copp take viewers on a full tour of the Crease Clinic, Vancouver's infamous psychiatric hospital where much of the film was shot.

'Bridge to Terabithia' - Another HD DVD-Exclusive In Spain

In Spain, Bridge to Terabithia will be available to own in high-definition exclusively on HD DVD, come November 7.

Specific details and cover artwork of the Spanish HD DVD release follow...

Bridge to Terabithia HD DVD

• 1080p High Definition 16x9 1.85:1
• Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 (English, Castilian/Spanish, Catalan)
• Castilian/Spanish & Catalan subtitle options
• Bonus material includes:
  - Audio Commentary with Director Gabor Csupo, Writer Jeff Stockwell and Producer Hal Lieberman
  - Audio Commentary with Actors Josh Hutcherson and Anna Sophia Robb and Producer Lauren Levine
  - Digital Imagination: Bringing Terabithia to Life
  - Behind the Book: The Themes of Bridge To Terabithia
  - Music Video "Keep Your Mind Wide Open" Performed by Anna Sophia Robb
  - Filmographies
  - Trailer

The French HD DVD release of the same film will also be available, come November 7. The disc specification of the French HD DVD release is expected to be similar to the Spanish HD DVD release with the exception of the inclusion of DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 (English) audio tracks - instead of Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 - for the main feature.

'Hannibal Rising' On HD DVD In Germany, Dec 10

Hannibal Rising - Unrated (2007)
HD DVD / 130 mins Unrated Version / Available to own starting December 10

• 1080p High Definition 16x9 2.35:1
• DTS-HD 5.1 (English & German)
• English & German subtitle options
• Bonus material includes:
  - Audio commentary by director Peter Webber and producer Martha De Laurentiis
  - HD DVD-exclusive DynamicHD (Web-enhanced) Features
  - Making Of Young Hannibal - Behind the Mask
  - Deleted Scenes with Optional Commentary from the Director
  - B-roll
  - Cast & Crew Interviews
  - Designing Horror & Elegance
  - International Teaser & Trailer

HD DVD Around The Web

• Interesting HD DVD Commercials...
  - Toshiba - DreamWorks Joint Promotion of Shrek 3 On HD DVD - 'Gingy'
  - Toshiba - DreamWorks Joint Promotion of Shrek 3 On HD DVD - 'Donkey'
  - HD DVD promotional clip on NBC
  
  
• If the HD-A2 is now your first HD DVD player, then you may want/need to find out more information on the redemption of the 5 free HD DVD discs that comes with your purchase, details of the continual HD DVD player firmware updates that are required to be able to access/use the latest web-enabled content/features without major hiccups and information on which audio output to use.
  
  Forum posters over at AV Science forum has created a thread dedicated to assist new owners of HD DVD players with information on these issues and more.
  
  Another thread over at AV Science forum covers every aspect of firmware updates for HD DVD players.

That's all for this week...

Full Details of 'Eastern Promises' HD DVD

Universal Studios Home Entertainment has announced that Eastern Promises will be available to own in high-definition exclusively on HD DVD/DVD Combo disc, come December 26, at $39.98 SRP each.

Eastern Promises (2007)
HD DVD/DVD Combo Disc / $39.98 SRP / December 26

Main Feature Presentation on the HD DVD side...

• 1080p High-Definition Widescreen 1.85:1
• Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (English)
  Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 (English & French)
• English [SDH] & French subtitle options

Bonus material present on both HD DVD & DVD sides:

• Secrets and Stories - Go behind the scenes as director David Cronenberg brings screenwriter Steven Knight's brilliant script to life in the rainy dark streets of contemporary London.
• Marked for Life - Director David Cronenberg notes that in Russia, Georgia and other provinces, men are tattooed with their stories, there is no need for words. This feature will examine how the tattoos are used and what they mean for honor and code.
• HD DVD-Exclusive Web-Enabled Features - Get connected to download exclusive content, trailers and updates directly to your HD DVD player.

Virgin/Toshiba to Give Away Free HD DVD Players!

One-hundred and fifty lucky Star Trek fans will be walking away with a free Toshiba HD DVD player on Tuesday, November 20. There's only one catch ... this special giveaway is happening in New York City at the two different Virgin Megastores.

The Times Square store opens at 9:00 a.m. and the first 400 customers who purchase the Star Trek: The Original Series Season 1 Remastered on HD DVD/DVD will receive a goodie bag containing a tribble, a vintage poster of the cast and a free issue of the current Star Trek magazine. Of those, the first 120 customers who purchase the set will also receive a free Toshiba HD DVD player valued at $299.

Alternatively, you could head down to the Union Square store, which opens at 11:00 a.m., and get in line for your purchase of Star Trek: The Original Series Season 1 Remastered HD DVD/DVD set. The first 150 customers who purchase the Star Trek: The Original Series Season 1 remastered on HD/DVD will also receive the goodie bag described above. At this location, the first 30 of those customers who purchase the set will also receive a free Toshiba HD DVD player.

(Please note that the Star Trek Remastered set plays on both DVD and HD DVD players. It is literally the best of both worlds!)

Locations:

• Virgin Megastore – Times Square 1540 Broadway, Level 2 Phone: (212) 921-1020
• Virgin Megastore – Union Square 14th and Broadway Phone: (212) 598 - 4666

Source: StarTrek.com (Click here for the news article)

Full Details of 'The Bourne Ultimatum' HD DVD

Universal Studios Home Entertainment has finally provided the disc specifications to The Bourne Ultimatum HD DVD. This film will be available to own in high-definition exclusively on the HD DVD/DVD combo disc, come December 11, at $39.98 SRP each.

The Bourne Ultimatum (2007)
HD DVD/DVD Combo Disc / $39.98 SRP / December 11

Main Feature Presentation on the HD DVD side...

• 1080p High-Definition Widescreen 2.40:1
• Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (English)
  Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 (English & French)
• English [SDH] & French subtitle options

Bonus material present on both HD DVD & DVD sides:

• Deleted Scenes
• Man on the Move: Jason Bourne
• Rooftop Pursuit
• Planning the Punches
• Driving School
• New York Chase
• Feature Commentary with Director Paul Greengrass

HD DVD-Exclusive Bonus Features:

• U-Control Picture in Picture
• Blackbriar Files
• Volkswagen Get More Info
• Be Bourne Spy Training - In this abilities test, viewers complete tasks to test their spy skills

On a side note, The Bourne Ultimatum HD DVD will also be available to own in Australia from December 31 and the United Kingdom from December 10.

Wal-Mart's Secret In-Store Specials - Toshiba HD-A2 HD DVD Player At $99

Wal-Mart's Secret In-Store Specials, which begins this Friday, will include the Toshiba HD-A2 HD DVD player (Click here for full tech specs.) being offered at $98.87 (That's $200 being knocked off the manufacturer's suggested retail price).

Concerned about HD-A2's 1080i video output? Check out this article on 1080i vs 1080p video output and why there is exactly no difference between the two on your LCD, Plasma, LCOS and DLP.

Do take note of The Perfect HD DVD offer of 5 free HD DVD movies...

The Perfect HD DVD Offer - With the purchase of any Toshiba HD DVD player, consumers will be able to select five HD DVD titles for free, from a selection of 15, via a mail-in offer. The offer begins on October 1st 2007 and continues until February 28th 2008. Full details of this offer can be found on the new rebate form. Readers who have recently bought their first HD DVD player, models HD-XA2/A20/A2/A35/A30/A3 or the Xbox 360 HD DVD Add-on Player or any applicable Toshiba laptops, could also use this new form to redeem the 5 HD DVD titles.

Besides the HD-A2 HD DVD player, the in-store special is also being extended to HD DVD movies. Warner's The Blood Diamond, and Universal Studios' 12 Monkeys and The Big Lebowski will be available to own at $14.96 each (50% off the suggested retail price). Click here (Thanks to 'D-X' who have posted this on the AV Science forum) for a full list of HD DVD titles that will be priced at $14.96 each at this in-store special this Friday.

Click here for the official press release of this in-store special event.

Please notify us of any inaccuracies found with the details posted above...