PQ

Needless to say, Warner had its work cut out for it, but HD DVD fans will be pleased to hear that Warner has absolutely delivered the goods. In fact, this release compares favorably to anything I've seen yet on either high-def format. All three 'Matrix' films look fantastic on HD DVD, and I'd be more than happy to whip out any of them when I need a demo disc to show off my system.

AQ

I was just as impressed with the audio as I was the video -- this one absolutely rocks the house.

My favorites are the office break-in from the first film, both the humongous car chase and extended rave scenes about mid-way through 'Reloaded,' and the sheer aural delight of the climax in the otherwise-silly 'Revolutions.' The aggressiveness of the surrounds is phenomenal throughout -- imaging is seamless between channels, and the "wall of sound" the emanates from the rears is incredibly forceful. These are the kind of sequences you go back and rewind over and over again, just to revel in their effectiveness.

IME

... by the time I got around to watching the picture-in-picture video commentaries exclusive to both HD DVD releases, I really thought I'd had it with the Matrix series. But simply put, these three tracks (one per film, for 'The Matrix,' 'Reloaded' and 'Revolutions'), are a godsend for fans like myself who are intrigued by the 'Matrix' mythology, but looking for a more concise, general overview of their making.



Complete Trilogy (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/matrix_ct.html)

Ultimate Matrix Collection (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/matrix_umc.html)

Beat me to it, just came here to post the same. Good news for HD.

Very nice. I've got to commend Peter for the great amount of detail in these reviews.

I can't wait until the 22nd :)

Oh God I hope my Panasonic AE1000 1080p projector arrives before this boxset does :D :D :D

Oh God I hope my Panasonic AE1000 1080p projector arrives before this boxset does :D :D :D
Damn, that's going to look nice. I can't afford 1080p just yet.

It's nice to know the reviewers back up my original thoughts on the boxset.

If nothing else, these picture-in-picture commentaries also make a good case for opting away from 'The Ultimate Matrix Collection' and instead going for the more compact (and cheaper) three-disc 'Complete Matrix Trilogy,' since they appear on that edition, as well.


So are the picture in picture commentaries only in the Complete edition? In the Ultimate edition the same commentaries are on a separate sd dvd disc? :confused:

I want them in pip! :(

Makes me want the individual release of the first one more then ever now, this makes it harder to wait, arrghh! =)

Any version of Matrix 2 I have seen (DVD, Broadcast HD, 35mm and IMAX) had horrible EE in the scene where Neo is trapped in the train station. The white outlines around his coat were very obvious. Is this now gone on the HD-DVD?

Is the "cheaper version" (Complete?) on 3 double-sided discs or 6 single sided ones?

The review makes it sound like the format but I thought I heard recently that it would be on 6 single sided ones?

Is the "cheaper version" (Complete?) on 3 double-sided discs or 6 single sided ones?

The review makes it sound like the format but I thought I heard recently that it would be on 6 single sided ones?


Complete are on 3 single-sided discs. The stuff on them is the exact same material as the HD side of the Ultimate discs (i.e., the movies, the PIP commentaries, the IME, TrueHD, blah blah)

Any version of Matrix 2 I have seen (DVD, Broadcast HD, 35mm and IMAX) had horrible EE in the scene where Neo is trapped in the train station. The white outlines around his coat were very obvious. Is this now gone on the HD-DVD?


You saw it on 35mm?! Can that even have EE (which I thought was done post-transfer)? If it's in the film, it's probably on the HD DVD, though I haven't seen it yet.

So are the picture in picture commentaries only in the Complete edition? In the Ultimate edition the same commentaries are on a separate sd dvd disc? :confused:

I want them in pip! :(

picture in picture is on both, but I think it is one of the only special features on the Complete edition

You saw it on 35mm?! Can that even have EE (which I thought was done post-transfer)? If it's in the film, it's probably on the HD DVD, though I haven't seen it yet.

300 had ton of EE in certain shot in cinema, Digitalized stuff in movie are not always the best..

Oh man, just chomping at the bit for these. Early ship please! :D

VERY dissapointing that all the IME is is rehashed crap available elsewhere on the Ultimate set! What's the damn point then? BD buyers certainly won't miss them then.

I can't wait until the 22nd :)
I cancelled my Amazon order and and ordered through Pacific DVD, and paid more so as to get it faster than the 22nd. :)

Do the POTC guys still think they would outsell Matrix? :D

VERY dissapointing that all the IME is is rehashed crap available elsewhere on the Ultimate set! What's the damn point then? BD buyers certainly won't miss them then.
Nothing to miss. There won't be a Blu-ray release of this set until the Java functionality is up to snuff. When this is released on Blu-ray, it will include the IME and be essentially identical to the HD DVD set, with the possible exception of the 2-sided discs.

The Matrix is what got me into DVD. This is a fantastic addition to HD DVD!!!

I cancelled my Amazon order and and ordered through Pacific DVD, and paid more so as to get it faster than the 22nd. :)

Do the POTC guys still think they would outsell Matrix? :D

I'm thinking it will. It's cheaper and it's more relevant(AWE is gonna open huge).
I just want ot see Disney run a BD promo before AWE.

Glad to see they remastered The 3 films for the HD DVD release. I can't wait till Friday.

To be honest I didn't really care if it looked perfect, I just wanted TrueHD. This movie made me upgrade from the add-on to a stand alone. :)

You saw it on 35mm?! Can that even have EE (which I thought was done post-transfer)? If it's in the film, it's probably on the HD DVD, though I haven't seen it yet.

It's not on the film negative. It was added at the digital intermediate stage. All of Matrix 2 and 3 is coming from 2K DI data. On HD-DVD either directly (I guess that is the case) or via a film element output from DI and rescanned.

Good news indeed. Can't wait to host a Matrix movie marathon night.

Nothing to miss. There won't be a Blu-ray release of this set until the Java functionality is up to snuff. When this is released on Blu-ray, it will include the IME and be essentially identical to the HD DVD set, with the possible exception of the 2-sided discs.

That's not what Warner is doing with 300. They're releasing it sans IME so I suspect that since current BD players are and WILL ALWAYS BE completely incapable of IME no matter what happens with BD-j, I'm assuming they will do the same with The Matrix.

Shipping confirmation of Matrix Trilogy: may 14(dvdpacific)

Setup:
Toshiba XE-1 HD-DVD player
Mitsubishi HC5000 Projector

Ready to start the marathon any day now. :) :) :) :) :)

The Matrix was my first dvd that i bought, love that movie to death. I can't wait to rewatch all these movies on HD DVD its going to be quite the experience givin they have gotten awesome reviews.

That's not what Warner is doing with 300. They're releasing it sans IME so I suspect that since current BD players are and WILL ALWAYS BE completely incapable of IME no matter what happens with BD-j, I'm assuming they will do the same with The Matrix.
300 is a different story. Warner is alright with stripping the IME on some titles, but on a few that they consider franchise jewels (Batman Begins, The Matrix), they are holding off on the Blu-ray until they know all the features will match the HD DVD versions. The Matrix in particular became the definitive full-featured DVD, and they know that it is poised to take that title on the next-gen discs as well. Whether to release a scaled-down Blu-ray version or wait until they can release it full-featured was a hot topic, but they opted to "not put it out there until it is up to scratch." I'm not sure of the exact thread, but Warner execs have been quoted saying this elsewhere on this forum, and the official word is "Coming May 22 to HD DVD, and forthcoming at some later date on Blu-ray."

Oh, and by the way, your assertion that all current Blu-ray players are and WILL ALWAYS BE completely incapapble of IME is incorrect. It is true that some will and some won't at this present moment, but Java functionality is there, even for multiple streams in a lot of players (as evidenced by Dragon's Lair, Chicken Little, The Descent, etc) and Blu-wizard doesn't even require Java to operate (as evidenced by The Holiday). There are new Java-based functions that will be introduced in new players this fall that go beyond what IME is doing, but discs that support those features will still play on current Blu-ray players, contrary to what some people are saying here. There will just be additional features available on newer players.

The Matrix is what got me into DVD. This is a fantastic addition to HD DVD!!!

Me too! My very first DVD.

300 is a different story. Warner is alright with stripping the IME on some titles, but on a few that they consider franchise jewels (Batman Begins, The Matrix), they are holding off on the Blu-ray until they know all the features will match the HD DVD versions...I think you're right about this. As much as I would prefer to have 300 as an HD DVD exclusive like The Matrix (even if only "temporary"...Batman Begins has been exclusive for quire some time), I'm sure the fact that most Blu-ray owners are PS3 owners has something to do with their decision to sell 300 on Blu-ray day-and-date. Clearly the majority of PS3 owners are gamers first, movie watchers second (hence the dismal attach rate). The targeted demographic of 300 makes it a no-brainer to release at least something to sell to the PS3 audience. If nothing else, Warner is looking to sell a few discs.

The Matrix in particular became the definitive full-featured DVD, and they know that it is poised to take that title on the next-gen discs as well.

I agree that was the case with DVD and Matrix will certainly be big on both formats, however, I think it has too much competition these days with other big titles to hold the strength it had in 1999. The sales figures will tell soon enough I suppose.

300 is a different story. Warner is alright with stripping the IME on some titles, but on a few that they consider franchise jewels (Batman Begins, The Matrix), they are holding off on the Blu-ray until they know all the features will match the HD DVD versions. The Matrix in particular became the definitive full-featured DVD, and they know that it is poised to take that title on the next-gen discs as well. Whether to release a scaled-down Blu-ray version or wait until they can release it full-featured was a hot topic, but they opted to "not put it out there until it is up to scratch." I'm not sure of the exact thread, but Warner execs have been quoted saying this elsewhere on this forum, and the official word is "Coming May 22 to HD DVD, and forthcoming at some later date on Blu-ray."

Oh, and by the way, your assertion that all current Blu-ray players are and WILL ALWAYS BE completely incapapble of IME is incorrect.
According to the spokeperson for the Blu-ray Group and an industry insider who asked me not to be named, you are wrong.
It is true that some will and some won't at this present moment, but Java functionality is there, even for multiple streams in a lot of players (as evidenced by Dragon's Lair, Chicken Little, The Descent, etc)
I'm not denying that, just that current BD players will never be able to play multiple video streams. There is a possible exception for the PS3, but that's just rumor at the moment.[/quote]
and Blu-wizard doesn't even require Java to operate (as evidenced by The Holiday).[/quote]I have no evidence one way or the other on this issue, but because it's just seamless branching it makes sense. Again, nothing to do with multiple video streams.
There are new Java-based functions that will be introduced in new players this fall that go beyond what IME is doing,I have not seen any evidence of this, but it's certainly possible.
but discs that support those features will still play on current Blu-ray players, contrary to what some people are saying here.
Not contrary to what I'm saying.There will just be additional features available on newer players.
Namely, IME. :cool:

Man, I can't wait!!! :)

Great to read a 5/5 review for PQ & AQ for this box set. Looking forward to it even more now.

I'm not denying that, just that current BD players will never be able to play multiple video streams. There is a possible exception for the PS3, but that's just rumor at the moment.

One of the examples I listed, Dragon's Lair, uses multiple streams to provide an on-screen commentary with a play-through feature on the movie. The Descent appears to, though it is actually a second encode of the movie with the PIP edited in.

None of the films are 5/5 for video, depending on your definition of what "5/5" should mean. All three look very good, but are filtered and very lightly edge enhanced which means that they shouldn't be given a perfect score.

I also would say that 5/5 for audio is a strange score given that the audio and video are out of sync (at least on the first film).

A great set, but to give it a 5/5 sells the truly perfect discs short, IMO.

I cancelled my Amazon order last night and went with PacificDVD and I just recieved email that

MY MATRIX TRILOGY HAS BEEN SHIPPED!!! :eek:

OH HAPPY DAY!!! :D :D :D

I cancelled my Amazon order last night and went with PacificDVD and I just recieved email that

MY MATRIX TRILOGY HAS BEEN SHIPPED!!! :eek:

OH HAPPY DAY!!! :D :D :D

Happy Days.... has that show been released on HD DVD? Maybe its another exclusive :p

I cancelled my Amazon order last night and went with PacificDVD and I just recieved email that

MY MATRIX TRILOGY HAS BEEN SHIPPED!!! :eek:

OH HAPPY DAY!!! :D :D :D
Just ordered from DVDP just now, hope to get the "item shipped" email in the next day or so, so that I can also cancel my Amazon preorder.

I can NOT wait to get this boxset!!!! :D :D :D

Happy Days.... has that show been released on HD DVD? Maybe its another exclusive :p
Jerk. :D

Really? Who asked not to be named... hmmm

Because the BDA said that no current Blu-Ray player will support IME ever.

BDA... or some magical insider who doesn't want to be named.


By the way, I know a Microsoft Insider who says the 360 HD DVD player will have a price drop to $9.99, but the insider doesn't want to be named :rolleyes:
I thought he was beatboy77 there for a second. ;)

i'd be more than happy to pay $100 for just the first movie but i dont want to pay money, no matter how little, for the sequels ever again. are there any plans on single releases?

Just ordered from DVDP just now, hope to get the "item shipped" email in the next day or so, so that I can also cancel my Amazon preorder.

I can NOT wait to get this boxset!!!! :D :D :D
I chose USPS Priority mail, I use that in my online store, and it usually is delivered in 2-3 days so...Saturday latest!!! :D

I feel giddy. :eek:

i'd be more than happy to pay $100 for just the first movie but i dont want to pay money, no matter how little, for the sequels ever again. are there any plans on single releases?

Are you insane? If that's case, just buy the set for $70 and trash the sequels. Holy crap people!

I chose USPS Priority mail, I use that in my online store, and it usually is delivered in 2-3 days so...Saturday latest!!! :D

I feel giddy. :eek:


Yep, one of the advantages to shipping with USPS as opposed to UPS is they deliver on Saturdays. It's usually $4-5 cheaper as well.

i'd be more than happy to pay $100 for just the first movie but i dont want to pay money, no matter how little, for the sequels ever again. are there any plans on single releases?
I am sure you would if you owned an HD DVD player or even supported the format. :D

i'd be more than happy to pay $100 for just the first movie but i dont want to pay money, no matter how little, for the sequels ever again. are there any plans on single releases?

Send me a PM I get my order in on friday. Paypal only. I'll ship next day air. :)

I cancelled my Amazon order and and ordered through Pacific DVD, and paid more so as to get it faster than the 22nd. :)

Do the POTC guys still think they would outsell Matrix? :D

that is the matter! while amazon are thinking that they are holding the barometer of HD sale, DVD pacific is the only retailer site where million of worldwide or European consumers purchase their copies...and they still keep quite...they don't either communicate their figures... :)

He's a BD fan, read his posts.

:rolleyes:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10137383#post10137383

I have an extra case from the spiderman promo, it's all good. :)

None of the films are 5/5 for video, depending on your definition of what "5/5" should mean. All three look very good, but are filtered and very lightly edge enhanced which means that they shouldn't be given a perfect score. .
How are they filtered? EE? Damn it... :mad:

Most titles are, sadly. If you look at the top and bottom of the active picture area you can see very slight ringing, and yeah, there's some glowing around high contrasts. Don't get me wrong, it still looks great.

Whoa...

I know lossless audio.

As being in the industry, i deal with IPs and DI/DN all the time. From looking at the films, part one was off the IP while 2&3 are off the DI. Part one does look great but 2&3 are just about perfect. Yes, film grain is evident in all films (one has the most) and yes heavy filtration is used yet the detail is all there and it's a major improvement over the SD discs. Best I've ever seen the films since the theatre.

300 is a different story. Warner is alright with stripping the IME on some titles, but on a few that they consider franchise jewels (Batman Begins, The Matrix), they are holding off on the Blu-ray until they know all the features will match the HD DVD versions. The Matrix in particular became the definitive full-featured DVD, and they know that it is poised to take that title on the next-gen discs as well. Whether to release a scaled-down Blu-ray version or wait until they can release it full-featured was a hot topic, but they opted to "not put it out there until it is up to scratch." I'm not sure of the exact thread, but Warner execs have been quoted saying this elsewhere on this forum, and the official word is "Coming May 22 to HD DVD, and forthcoming at some later date on Blu-ray."

Oh, and by the way, your assertion that all current Blu-ray players are and WILL ALWAYS BE completely incapapble of IME is incorrect. It is true that some will and some won't at this present moment, but Java functionality is there, even for multiple streams in a lot of players (as evidenced by Dragon's Lair, Chicken Little, The Descent, etc) and Blu-wizard doesn't even require Java to operate (as evidenced by The Holiday). There are new Java-based functions that will be introduced in new players this fall that go beyond what IME is doing, but discs that support those features will still play on current Blu-ray players, contrary to what some people are saying here. There will just be additional features available on newer players.
Perhaps, but some current Blu-ray players WILL ALWAYS BE completely incapable of full 1.1 IME functionality. This current (and on some players permanent) limitation (which I personally consider a deal killer) has already been confirmed by Andy Parsons from Pioneer.

I thought he was beatboy77 there for a second. ;)
I know the unnamed insider thing is unfair, but what can I do? The guy says not to mention his name probably because he doesn't want to get mobbed. I can't really blame him for that, although it begs the question why he would reveal things to me and not the rest of the board. I'm just some guy on a message board.

He specifically asked me not to quote him, but I can tell you that he says that ONLY the PS3 and the second gen Sammy guarentee a secondary video decoder. So I guess if you have either of those you'll be ok. Do 2 players on the market offer enough of an impact that WB feels comfortable employing IME knowing that when it doesn't work on most of them everyone will get flooded with complaints? Only they can answer that and so far they aren't talking.

Perhaps, but some current Blu-ray players WILL ALWAYS BE completely incapable of full 1.1 IME functionality. This current (and on some players permanent) limitation (which I personally consider a deal killer) has already been confirmed by Andy Parsons from Pioneer.
That's the BDA guy I was citing. I couldn't remember his name.

None of the films are 5/5 for video, depending on your definition of what "5/5" should mean. All three look very good, but are filtered and very lightly edge enhanced which means that they shouldn't be given a perfect score.

I also would say that 5/5 for audio is a strange score given that the audio and video are out of sync (at least on the first film).

A great set, but to give it a 5/5 sells the truly perfect discs short, IMO.


Which would be?

He specifically asked me not to quote him, but I can tell you that he says that ONLY the PS3 and the second gen Sammy guarentee a secondary video decoder. So I guess if you have either of those you'll be ok. Do 2 players on the market offer enough of an impact that WB feels comfortable employing IME knowing that when it doesn't work on most of them everyone will get flooded with complaints? Only they can answer that and so far they aren't talking.
I do believe that the PS3 is fully capable of doing proper Profile 1.1 IME. I'm just not convinced they'll do it in a timely fashion. I'd expect to see it implemented on the PS3 some time in 2008. Who knows though, perhaps Sony will surprise me and get it out before Xmas. It is ironic though that the cheapest players are the safest bets in terms of future functionality.

Anyways, back on topic...

The Matrix reviews are very encouraging. I had held off ordering because 1) The Xbox 360 HD DVD drive software had issues, and 2) I wasn't all that keen in owning Reloaded and Revolutions unless they were near perfect.

Well, Microsoft fixed all the significant 360 drive issues, and judging by the reviews, Warner came through with excellent Matrix video encodes for HD DVD, as well as good audio options too.

I ordered the Matrix just this week, after the 360 HD DVD Update came out, and after seeing the initial impressions here about the disc set.

The recent comment about audio sync does worry me though. How bad, and with which hardware (player, TV, receiver)? OTOH, Microsoft said they specifically tested Matrix extensively with the 360 player, before they released the 360 update.

If the image freezes momentarily while playing an HD DVD on my Toshiba HD-A1, the sound continues, throwing the picture and sound out of sync. I've found that pausing the disc and hitting play again remedies the problem. Could that be the case here?

If the image freezes momentarily while playing an HD DVD on my Toshiba HD-A1, the sound continues, throwing the picture and sound out of sync. I've found that pausing the disc and hitting play again remedies the problem. Could that be the case here?
Is this with the Matrix specifically, or with your HD-A1 in general?

I didn't have this picture-freeze problem with my HD-A1, but I only tested a couple of discs before I got rid of it. OTOH, the HD-A1 with firmware 2.0 does still have some sync issues nonetheless. For example, there was a slight audio delay on Batman Begins on the HD-A1 (with firmware 2.0). I returned my HD-A1 months ago so I don't know if the later firmwares fixed it.

Interestingly, Microsoft claims that after the update, the 360 HD DVD drive is now more accurate with audio sync than all standalone HD DVD players.

Which would be?
"Corpse Bride", "Serenity", "Casino Royale" and "The Descent" are the discs I've watched on both formats that look as flawless as a video transfer compressed to fit on an optical disc can be.

If the image freezes momentarily while playing an HD DVD on my Toshiba HD-A1, the sound continues, throwing the picture and sound out of sync. I've found that pausing the disc and hitting play again remedies the problem. Could that be the case here? Yeah, I've had that as well, but that doesn't seem to be the issue - the sound is simply authored a little out of sync with the video.

I cancelled my Amazon order and and ordered through Pacific DVD, and paid more so as to get it faster than the 22nd. :)

Do the POTC guys still think they would outsell Matrix? :DI dont know who is going to sell more, but I saw POTC3 this week and I didn't think it was very good. So just like the Matrix triligy.... the first Movie was good, and the other two fall way short.

Is this with the Matrix specifically, or with your HD-A1 in general?
Just HD DVDs in general on my HD-A1.

I dont know who is going to sell more, but I saw POTC3 this week and I didn't think it was very good. So just like the Matrix triligy.... the first Movie was good, and the other two fall way short.

Shite. I figured they'd screw the series up. My gf and I were unimpressed by POTC2 but I figured they might pull it back inline. There was just something missing from the second movie. It didn't have that charm.

Trilogies are never easy to do but Hollywood still doesn't seem to understand that going bigger doesn't mean you end up with a better product.

I just watched the Matrix Revolutions, and it too has a smidge of edge enhancement but for the amount of stuff that flies around during the fights in that film, it's an encoding achievement to be sure. I'd LOVE to see MPEG-2 do some of that.

I should hopefully get mine on monday. The place that I ordered the matrix trilogy said they will be shipping it out Friday!! Priority Mail oh man I cant wait!! I cant wait to watch all 3 comming out Tuesday. POTC & Matrix!! Plus Flags of our Fathers & Letters from Iwo Jima come out the same day as well!! That's going to be a sick day for all formats!! I'm glad I'm neutral so I can get all of them!!
Mischa.

my set came today (ordered from warner) and it looks GREAT!! the 3 movies are each in their own hd case inside the box.

"Corpse Bride", "Serenity", "Casino Royale" and "The Descent" are the discs I've watched on both formats that look as flawless as a video transfer compressed to fit on an optical disc can be.

Who released "Casino Royale" on HD DVD?

POTC2 is being called the hidef release.

Glad I went dual, now I can see for myself.

POTC2 is being called the hidef release.

Glad I went dual, now I can see for myself.
Nice, but stll not The Matrix.

POTC2 is being called the hidef release.



POTC are lame children's movies. The first Matrix is a classic that holds the test of time.

POTC are lame children's movies. The first Matrix is a classic that holds the test of time.

POTC is not lame. The Matrix awesome, and I wouldn't be upset if I watched everyday for a month.(I did it with the dvd release)

But POTC is being called a perfect transfer, the best of both formats.

Good job Disney for making such a good POTC transfer. However The Matrix is still at the extreme upper edge in quality.

I don't see any IME features on POTC :p

Good job Disney for making such a good POTC transfer. However The Matrix is still at the extreme upper edge in quality.

I don't see any IME features on POTC :p
They don't have that yet? Pity. :D

Now be nice :)

As being in the industry, i deal with IPs and DI/DN all the time. From looking at the films, part one was off the IP while 2&3 are off the DI. Part one does look great but 2&3 are just about perfect. Yes, film grain is evident in all films (one has the most) and yes heavy filtration is used yet the detail is all there and it's a major improvement over the SD discs.
What filtration? Are you talking about noise reduction? Sharpening? On the DI? The unavoidable compression for the HD-DVD? :confused:

Who released "Casino Royale" on HD DVD?
Nobody, that's why I said "both formats". Even if I hadn't, good video practice isn't bound to any one format.

As being in the industry, i deal with IPs and DI/DN all the time. From looking at the films, part one was off the IP while 2&3 are off the DI. Part one does look great but 2&3 are just about perfect. Yes, film grain is evident in all films (one has the most) and yes heavy filtration is used yet the detail is all there and it's a major improvement over the SD discs. I'd agree with most of that (apart from "heavy filtration is used yet the detail is all there" which, correct me if I'm wrong, is contradictory?). There were scenes in the third film that are so insanely busy that they HAD to be filtered, so it wouldn't be fair to criticise them for that - parts of the 3rd film are a compressionist's nightmare!

They don't have that yet? Pity. :D
We will have Matrix later this year, but you will never have Pirates :p

We will have Matrix later this year, but you will never have Pirates :pSOLD!!!!!

I dont know who is going to sell more, but I saw POTC3 this week and I didn't think it was very good. So just like the Matrix triligy.... the first Movie was good, and the other two fall way short.
I think POTC will outsell Matrix.

We will have Matrix later this year, but you will never have Pirates :p

Yeah, kinda like Batman Begins, didn't that come out on Blu-Ray a few months after in 2006 after the HD DVD version :p

come on guys, this is about the Matrix, not about who's gonna get what exclusive on each format. Back on track.

come on guys, this is about the Matrix, not about who's gonna get what exclusive on each format. Back on track.

Agreed

Does anyone know if the flipper discs on the ultimate matrix collection are dual sided HD DVD? Or one side HD DVD the other side DVD. i.e. like a combo disc?

Good job Disney for making such a good POTC transfer. However The Matrix is still at the extreme upper edge in quality.

I don't see any IME features on POTC :p
It's not called IME... They're calling it "Scoundrels at Sea" or something like that. Instead of picture-in-picture, it's branching to behind-the scenes segments.

Agreed

Does anyone know if the flipper discs on the ultimate matrix collection are dual sided HD DVD? Or one side HD DVD the other side DVD. i.e. like a combo disc?
I'm not sure about the flippers, but the two bonus discs are standard DVD.

on Amazon the sales rank of POTC is now up to 12 with a price of 23.95 while Ultimate Matrix is up to 21! with a price of 73.95! i find that just as impressive as the PQ on the Matrix.( I really found myself saying "omg there is so much detail") :D

on Amazon the sales rank of POTC is now up to 12 with a price of 23.95 while Ultimate Matrix is up to 21! with a price of 73.95! i find that just as impressive as the PQ on the Matrix.( I really found myself saying "omg there is so much detail") :D

On top of that the two boxsets are splitting the HD DVD user base. With 1/2 going for the complete trilogy and 1/2 going for the ultimate collection. Pirates on the other hand does not split the Blu-Ray user base. And there are also some people holding out for The Matrix only on HD DVD.

on Amazon the sales rank of POTC is now up to 12 with a price of 23.95 while Ultimate Matrix is up to 21! with a price of 73.95! i find that just as impressive as the PQ on the Matrix.( I really found myself saying "omg there is so much detail") :D


Amazing......21 and 31 respectively. Three boxsets make up the top three HD-DVD's. You can't tell me that this does not represent potential.
Planet Earth....5
Ultimate Matrix....21
Complete Matrix....31

Sure......there is no money to be made on HD-DVD. :p

We will have Matrix later this year, but you will never have Pirates :p
That's what they said about Batman Begins...I see you don't have that yet either. :p

Maybe Fall 2008 when the BDA finally figures out how to use IME, it might happen. Who knows, there might be no BD by then. ;)

Besides, who wants that kid's movie anyway? :p

on Amazon the sales rank of POTC is now up to 12 with a price of 23.95 while Ultimate Matrix is up to 21! with a price of 73.95! i find that just as impressive as the PQ on the Matrix.( I really found myself saying "omg there is so much detail") :D
Wanna know how well The Matrix is gonna do?

Every HD DVD owner will more than likely buy one, new adopters will sign on to HD DVD just to buy one. Several BD supporters in your BR forum have gone format neutral just to get one (thebland included).

Your honor, the defence rests. :p

Wanna know how well The Matrix is gonna do?

Every HD DVD owner will more than likely buy one, new adopters will sign on to HD DVD just to buy one. Several BD supporters in your BR forum have gone format neutral just to get one (thebland included).

Your honor, the defence rests. :p

Yet both Planet Earth versions and both PotC movies still outsell the two sets on Amazon right now. Remember, sales of HD DVD titles on Amazon are stronger than B&M stores. TheBland went neutral a long time ago and he has more money than sense. No offense TheBland. :D A lot of people just want the first movie ...including me. Thanks for playing though.

Wanna know how well The Matrix is gonna do?

Every HD DVD owner will more than likely buy one, new adopters will sign on to HD DVD just to buy one. Several BD supporters in your BR forum have gone format neutral just to get one (thebland included).

Your honor, the defence rests. :p


Oh I have been Format neutral for a few months now (got my A1 a year ago this week!!PS3 3 months ago ) but when movies come out in both formats I ALWAYS get the HD DVD copy,better player,better menus,IME and sometimes better PQ. I will say i have really liked the uncompressed PCM tracks though.

just to keep this thread on track I will also add that the PQ on the Matrix is Jaw dropping, so much more detail than the SD DVD.

I think POTC will outsell Matrix.

It should, there are 10x the amount of people available to buy it. I'd laugh if it didn't sell more.

just to keep this thread on track I will also add that the PQ on the Matrix is Jaw dropping, so much more detail than the SD DVD.
I agree, but man the audio totally kicks ass!! :eek:

I rarely heard audio come through so clearly and forceful. The TrueHD tracks let us know just how good the sound mixes for these movies are. After watching the discs for only about an hour, I already have demo scenes that almost put King Kong's T-Rex scene to shame.

Is there the usual HD DVD lack of bass problem? Or is this the world of the 'real'?

Is there the usual HD DVD lack of bass problem? Or is this the world of the 'real'?
What HD DVD lack of bass problem? :confused:

It should, there are 10x the amount of people available to buy it. I'd laugh if it didn't sell more.
Yeah, but thay are mostly PS3 gamers. :p
What is the BD attach rate, isn't it like 0.5 movies a BD owner?
That's really funny. :D

Is there the usual HD DVD lack of bass problem? Or is this the world of the 'real'?
The only bass problem related to HD DVD is that some Toshiba players don't properly handle bass management.

I have a Toshiba HD-A2 and am using HDMI to a Denon AVR. Therefore, the Toshiba isn't set to manage bass. I can assure you that I never noticed a shortage of redirected bass or LFE.

Seeing that you have a Denon 4806 and are probably using HDMI with your XA1, my advice is to make sure you set all speakers to "large" in the player's setup. This way the AVR alone manages redirected bass. I'm assuming that you indeed have a lack of bass.

Yet both Planet Earth versions and both PotC movies still outsell the two sets on Amazon right now. Remember, sales of HD DVD titles on Amazon are stronger than B&M stores. TheBland went neutral a long time ago and he has more money than sense. No offense TheBland. :D A lot of people just want the first movie ...including me. Thanks for playing though.
1, The Matrix HD DVD are not officially released yet.
2, HD DVD's planet Earth is outselling BD's.
3, The Bland posted a thread a little while ago were he returned his HD DVD player, he recently bought a XA2.
4, He has more money than you.

Thanks as well for playing along with us in the HD DVD forum.

Ya'll come back now. :D

The only bass problem related to HD DVD is that some Toshiba players don't properly handle bass management.

I have a Toshiba HD-A2 and am using HDMI to a Denon AVR. Therefore, the Toshiba isn't set to manage bass. I can assure you that I never noticed a shortage of redirected bass or LFE.

Seeing that you have a Denon 4806 and are probably using HDMI with your XA1, my advice is to make sure you set all speakers to "large" in the player's setup. This way the AVR alone manages redirected bass. I'm assuming that you indeed have a lack of bass.
Ah, I see. I had the A1 and used DTS, and yeah, bass was quite good.

Bass with the Xbox 360 HD DVD (at least after the update) is also quite nice.

Not to disparage POTC but I would and did, choose The Matrix over POTC in a heartbeat.

Not to disparage POTC but I would and did, choose The Matrix over POTC in a heartbeat.
As would everyone else if they didn't see through their Blu glasses.

POTC is being called the best HD material yet. forget Blu glasses.
And my Matrix delivery just got pushed to monday.

Either way if I had to choose I would take the matrix over pirates.
Luckily due to my foolishness, I get to take both pills.

POTC is being called the best HD material yet. forget Blu glasses.


Depends on who's $.02 is worth more to you I guess.

Some of you guys have known me for a while, and as for the others, take this for what its worth...

My copies of the POTC movies showed up yesterday. My Matrix set showed up the day before that. I have had a chance to look at both fairly closely. The assertions made by the OP and the quoted reviews are, in my opinion, inflated and exaggerated. POTC are indeed excellent transfers and encodes, as one might expect. I don't however, consider them to be any better than any number of other high profile BD and HD DVD releases I have seen over the past few months. In fact, I agree with the above post regarding the Matrix HD DVDs. I was more impressed with what I see in that set than I am with POTC.

I will say this about the POTC discs, though. Taken as a whole package, movies, transfers, supplements, authoring, etc., this is easily the best product I have seen the Blu-ray format produce. I guess, if I was as invested in a single format as some of these people are, I'd be excited that a BD release finally lived up to the format hype as well. I'm not, and I have a full year of HD DVD and almost a year of Blu-ray on a pretty okay system as reference, so I'm not so easily "blown away" when someone finally does something right.




I'm watching the Matrix right now. Looks excellent.

Originally Posted by Robert George
Some of you guys have known me for a while, and as for the others, take this for what its worth...

My copies of the POTC movies showed up yesterday. My Matrix set showed up the day before that. I have had a chance to look at both fairly closely. The assertions made by the OP and the quoted reviews are, in my opinion, inflated and exaggerated. POTC are indeed excellent transfers and encodes, as one might expect. I don't however, consider them to be any better than any number of other high profile BD and HD DVD releases I have seen over the past few months. In fact, I agree with the above post regarding the Matrix HD DVDs. I was more impressed with what I see in that set than I am with POTC.

I will say this about the POTC discs, though. Taken as a whole package, movies, transfers, supplements, authoring, etc., this is easily the best product I have seen the Blu-ray format produce. I guess, if I was as invested in a single format as some of these people are, I'd be excited that a BD release finally lived up to the format hype as well. I'm not, and I have a full year of HD DVD and almost a year of Blu-ray on a pretty okay system as reference, so I'm not so easily "blown away" when someone finally does something right.

Excellent post. :)

Woohoo...I got confirmation that my Ultimate set was shipped 5/17!!! Can't wait.

Woohoo...I got confirmation that my Ultimate set was shipped 5/17!!! Can't wait.
:D

Man do these movies look and sound incredible! To say they're a step up from their DVD counterparts would be doing the upgrade a disservice. The first movie is an INCREDIBLE leap up from the DVD, the other two movies had pretty good DVD transfers, so they're no as MUCH of an improvement, but they're still excellent HD discs regardless. Oh, and the IME kicks ass. Thanks Warner!!!

So has anyone else reported lip sync issues with Matrix? One person here at AVS did, but nobody else has.

I can't remember what player and TV he had though, and I can't seem to find the post. (There have been several different Matrix threads.)

1, The Matrix HD DVD are not officially released yet.
2, HD DVD's planet Earth is outselling BD's.
3, The Bland posted a thread a little while ago were he returned his HD DVD player, he recently bought a XA2.
4, He has more money than you.

Thanks as well for playing along with us in the HD DVD forum.

Ya'll come back now. :D

1. And so are the two PotCs movies. Not being released yet never stopped you from bragging about rankings before ...why now?
2. Did I said otherwise? I thought your post was about The Matrix? :rolleyes:
3.Like I said, he went neutral a long time ago. :rolleyes:
4.Ummm ...ok. I thought I made that clear already ..."more money than sense" is another way of saying he's very rich. :rolleyes:

wow ...4 strikes. You would be better not responding.

1. And so are the two PotCs movies. Not being released yet never stopped you from bragging about rankings before ...why now?
2. Did I said otherwise? I thought your post was about The Matrix? :rolleyes:
3.Like I said, he went neutral a long time ago. :rolleyes:
4.Ummm ...ok. I thought I made that clear already ..."more money than sense" is another way of saying he's very rich. :rolleyes:

wow ...4 strikes. You would be better not responding.
1, Game is not over yet. 0.5 ratio shows that POTC will never beat the Matrix.
2, He went neutral, then went exclusive, and then went neutral again, he kinda flip flopped, but not the same.
3, He may seem very rich to you. Very rich means over 10 million dollars to me. What does that mean to you? :p

We don't worship him as you do in the BD forums, there are a lot of "very rich" HD DVD supporters here, no need to flaunt. ;)

Got a knock on the door this morning, and I ran downstairs opened it without looking first, I knew who it was...

Postman with THE MATRIX!!! YEAH!!! :D :) :D

POTC is being called the best HD material yet.

And? How does that make it true?

I think its funny how the Blu-Boys are downplaying The Matrix and giving POTC a Gold Medal despite both receiving excellent scores. It will be interesting to see what a dual format owner thinks.

and how does it make it true?

super simple! comparing matrix PQ with pirates of the carribean is as comparing apples and oranges.

the Pirate of the caribean movies are shot later then the matrix. so Pirates consist of better technology when the movie was shot.

combine that with pirates having higher bitrates then the matrix and it would be extreme weird if Pirates version wouldnt look better then the Matrix.

and how does it make it true?

super simple! comparing matrix PQ with pirates of the carribean is as comparing apples and oranges.

the Pirate of the caribean movies are shot later then the matrix. so Pirates consist of better technology when the movie was shot.

combine that with pirates having higher bitrates then the matrix and it would be extreme weird if Pirates version wouldnt look better then the Matrix.

HD DVD can't hit those bitrates. And age isn't everything. Look at Robin Hood or Grand Prix.

I received my Matrix Collection yesterday, and I just teased myself with the "I know Kung Fu" scene. Wow! I can't wait to jump Into the Matrix. Awesome! :D

1, Game is not over yet. 0.5 ratio shows that POTC will never beat the Matrix.
2, He went neutral, then went exclusive, and then went neutral again, he kinda flip flopped, but not the same.
3, He may seem very rich to you. Very rich means over 10 million dollars to me. What does that mean to you? :p

We don't worship him as you do in the BD forums, there are a lot of "very rich" HD DVD supporters here, no need to flaunt. ;)

1.When the Nielsen numbers come out, do you honestly think The Matrix will sell more? You honestly think an old box set will actually sell more than two movies that grossed over $1.6 billion world-wide? :rolleyes:
2.Neutral is neutral and yes it is the same.
3.Petty. Thats all that needs to be say there.

Looks like not everyone thinks The Matrix is ALL THAT. IGN gave it a 8/10 in PQ:

7 - The Movie
An uneven but ultimately groundbreaking and exhiliarating trilogy.
8 - The Video
A serious step up from the DVD treatment.
10 - The Audio
One of the most amazing examples of sound design in movies.
8 - The Extras
35 + hours, but none of them in HD? Even The Animatrix? Really?
8 - OVERALL
(out of 10 / not an average)

http://dvd.ign.com/articles/789/789701p1.html

As you can see, The Matrix is far from perfect. :D

As you can see, The Matrix is far from perfect.

I would laugh if Ign gave pirates a 7 out of ten on pq :p

Looks like not everyone thinks The Matrix is ALL THAT. IGN gave it a 8/10 in PQ:



http://dvd.ign.com/articles/789/789701p1.html

As you can see, The Matrix is far from perfect. :D
If you truly cared less about The Matrix, you would spend your time in the BD section singing praises to your kiddie movie. :p

Rather, you are here because YOU KNOW IN YOUR HEART that Matrix is KING and you would like to have it in BD...But wait, YOU CAN'T! :eek:
YOUR FORMAT, AND EVEN OR POTC DOESN'T SUPPORT IME! :p

You may never see it. EVER!!! :D
And that wouldn't bother you, because in your little world POC is a better film. LOL :D

I think POTC will outsell Matrix.

I don't agree. Matrix appeals to a more sci-fi crowd, i.e., ones also likely to buy HD-DVD/BR early. POTC is a more casual appealing film, i.e. kids, mothers, women, etc.
Just my two cents. :D

shadowrage.

precisly! hd-dvd cant hit those bitrates. and robin hood and grandprix although looking good. dont come nowhere near the matrix or pirates that is.

it is not to offend anyone. but it is so tiresome when people compare stuff what should not be compared. pirates has a higher bitrate and is shot on newer technology then the matrix. so ofcourse pirates will look better then the matrix. same reason why mission impossible 3 looks better then mission impossible 1.

so yeah pirates 2 is now the best looking movie on high def. who cares. it is logical. i would be way more surprised if it didnt look better then the matrix.

1.When the Nielsen numbers come out, do you honestly think The Matrix will sell more? You honestly think an old box set will actually sell more than two movies that grossed over $1.6 billion world-wide? :rolleyes:
2.Neutral is neutral and yes it is the same.
3.Petty. Thats all that needs to be say there.
1, It's a kids movie...parents will not say "hey Josh lets go pick up that $700 BD player so we can watch POTC again in HD. :D
2, BD attach rate is 0.5. :D
3, BD players are too expensive.
4, The Matrix is the movie that EVERY HD owner has been waiting for. POTC, I saw the first one once, didn't like it much. I bought it in DVD, and am yet to even see the second or third ones.
It is not the type of movie that draws people to invest HD, The Matrix is. :D
Yes current BD owners would buy it, but new buyers...NO WAY JOSE. :D

I don't agree. Matrix appeals to a more sci-fi crowd, i.e., ones also likely to buy HD-DVD/BR early. POTC is a more casual appealing film, i.e. kids, mothers, women, etc.
Just my two cents. :D
Fact, true dat! :D

shadowrage.

precisly! hd-dvd cant hit those bitrates. and robin hood and grandprix although looking good. dont come nowhere near the matrix or pirates that is.

it is not to offend anyone. but it is so tiresome when people compare stuff what should not be compared. pirates has a higher bitrate and is shot on newer technology then the matrix. so ofcourse pirates will look better then the matrix. same reason why mission impossible 3 looks better then mission impossible 1.

so yeah pirates 2 is now the best looking movie on high def. who cares. it is logical. i would be way more surprised if it didnt look better then the matrix.
Go home and enjoy your kids movies. You are messing up our Matrix high dudes. :D

If you truly cared less about The Matrix, you would spend your time in the BD section singing praises to your kiddie movie. :p

Rather, you are here because YOU KNOW IN YOUR HEART that Matrix is KING and you would like to have it in BD...But wait, YOU CAN'T! :eek:
YOUR FORMAT, AND EVEN OR POTC DOESN'T SUPPORT IME! :p

You may never see it. EVER!!! :D
And that wouldn't bother you, because in your little world POC is a better film. LOL :D

Sorry to break it to you but The Matrix is not a HD DVD exclusive. The box set will be out on Blu-ray soon enough. Even then, I would not buy it. Like most sensible viewers, I am gonna wait for the The Matrix standalone. The last two movies sucked.

1, It's a kids movie...parents will not say "hey Josh lets go pick up that $700 BD player so we can watch POTC again in HD. :D
2, BD attach rate is 0.5. :D
3, BD players are too expensive.
4, The Matrix is the movie that EVERY HD owner has been waiting for. POTC, I saw the first one once, didn't like it much. I bought it in DVD, and am yet to even see the second or third ones.
It is not the type of movie that draws people to invest HD, The Matrix is. :D
Yes current BD owners would buy it, but new buyers...NO WAY JOSE. :D

I disagree that it is a childrens movie. Lots of people love POTC, I'm one of 'em. The second one was a dud, but so was the second Matrix.

Yes, the BD attach rate is rather humiliating isn't it :cool:

1, It's a kids movie...parents will not say "hey Josh lets go pick up that $700 BD player so we can watch POTC again in HD. :D
2, BD attach rate is 0.5. :D
3, BD players are too expensive.
4, The Matrix is the movie that EVERY HD owner has been waiting for. POTC, I saw the first one once, didn't like it much. I bought it in DVD, and am yet to even see the second or third ones.
It is not the type of movie that draws people to invest HD, The Matrix is. :D
Yes current BD owners would buy it, but new buyers...NO WAY JOSE. :D

You are not even responding to my posts anymore...you are making new points because you can't respond to what I have wrote. If EVERY HD owner is waiting for it, then why is Planet Earth and PotC movies still ahead in the Amazon ranking? Remember, Amazon is probably the cheapest place to get the set.

Sorry to break it to you but The Matrix is not a HD DVD exclusive. The box set will be out on Blu-ray soon enough. Even then, I would not buy it. Like most sensible viewers, I am gonna wait for the The Matrix standalone. The last two movies sucked.

Kinda like V for Vendetta, Troy, Smallville: Season 5, The Polar Express and Batman Begins which are a few of the two dozen Warner titles only available on HD DVD

Those all were released on HD DVD then they came to Blu-Ray later, which is why you now have them in your Blu-Ray collection ;)

Warner isn't as neutral as you would like to think :cool:

Kinda like V for Vendetta, Troy, Smallville: Season 5, The Polar Express and Batman Begins which are a few of the two dozen Warner titles only available on HD DVD

Those all were released on HD DVD then they came to Blu-Ray later, which is why you now have them in your Blu-Ray collection ;)

Warner isn't as neutral as you would like to think :cool:

Well, we will see in the fall won't we? A few Warner Brothers titles were released early on HD DVD and then later on Blu-ray. There is precedence.

here are 2 screenshots from the first matrix as seen on a Toshiba 62mx196 1080p DLP, taken with a Fuji 5.1mp camera :D

this is on the HD A1 f2.2

here are 2 screenshots from the first matrix as seen on a Toshiba 62mx196 1080p DLP, taken with a Fuji 5.1mp camera :D

Great pics.

Just a few more days to wait.

here are 2 screenshots from the first matrix as seen on a Toshiba 62mx196 1080p DLP, taken with a Fuji 5.1mp camera :D

this is on the HD A1 f2.2

Wow, great pics, I can't believe IGN gave The Matrix 8/10 for PQ :mad:

Wow, great pics, I can't believe IGN gave The Matrix 8/10 for PQ :mad:

I can since IGN is a FOX company.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ign

"On September 8, 2005, News Corporation announced that it had bought 92.3% of total stock of the company for US$650 million, giving it a controlling stake in IGN.[2] It is now a division of Fox Interactive Media (FIM), which includes MySpace, foxnews.com, and several other properties owned by News Corp."

Well, we will see in the fall won't we? A few Warner Brothers titles were released early on HD DVD and then later on Blu-ray. There is precedence.

Seriously dude, get a life and go away. If the BD attach rate was a high as you HD DVD forum post rate, people might actually take them seriously.

Sorry to break it to you but The Matrix is not a HD DVD exclusive. The box set will be out on Blu-ray soon enough. Even then, I would not buy it. Like most sensible viewers, I am gonna wait for the The Matrix standalone. The last two movies sucked.
Sorry to break it to you, but The Matrix IS an HD DVD exclusive. Is it available on Blu-ray? Is it even announced? No? Exclusive.

Sorry to break it to you, but The Matrix IS an HD DVD exclusive. Is it available on Blu-ray? Is it even announced? No? Exclusive.

Let's take a look at all the Warner titles that have been out for a year or so that still haven't even been announced for Blu-ray, shall we?

1. Constantine
2. Terminator 3
3. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
4. Poseidon
5. The Polar Express
6. Batman Begins

Some of the Warner titles featuring lossless sound that were dumbed down for Blu-ray:

1. Phantom of the Opera
2. Superman Returns
3. Lady in the Water

....and so-on and so-on.

As far as I'm concerned, Warner is exclusive enough for me :o :p :o

Let's take a look at all the Warner titles that have been out for a year or so that still haven't even been announced for Blu-ray, shall we?

1. Constantine
2. Terminator 3
3. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
4. Poseidon
5. The Polar Express
6. Batman Begins

Some of the Warner titles featuring lossless sound that were dumbed down for Blu-ray:

1. Phantom of the Opera
2. Superman Returns
3. Lady in the Water

....and so-on and so-on.

As far as I'm concerned, Warner is exclusive enough for me :o :p :o

7. V for Vendetta

Sorry to break it to you but The Matrix is not a HD DVD exclusive. The box set will be out on Blu-ray soon enough. Even then, I would not buy it. Like most sensible viewers, I am gonna wait for the The Matrix standalone. The last two movies sucked.
I know, and so is Batman Begins. You don't have that yet do you? :D

Sorry to break it to you, but The Matrix IS an HD DVD exclusive. Is it available on Blu-ray? Is it even announced? No? Exclusive.
:D

Looks like not everyone thinks The Matrix is ALL THAT. IGN gave it a 8/10 in PQ:



http://dvd.ign.com/articles/789/789701p1.html

As you can see, The Matrix is far from perfect. :D

I can see why. The BR hydra at work again. ;)

Originally posted by Robert D
I can since IGN is a FOX company.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ign

"On September 8, 2005, News Corporation announced that it had bought 92.3% of total stock of the company for US$650 million, giving it a controlling stake in IGN.[2] It is now a division of Fox Interactive Media (FIM), which includes MySpace, foxnews.com, and several other properties owned by News Corp."

Fox is always fair when it comes to telling both sides of the story.

Fox is always fair when it comes to telling both sides of the story.

you forgot to say and balanced ...... NOT

Let's take a look at all the Warner titles that have been out for a year or so that still haven't even been announced for Blu-ray, shall we?

1. Constantine
2. Terminator 3
3. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
4. Poseidon
5. The Polar Express
6. Batman Begins

Some of the Warner titles featuring lossless sound that were dumbed down for Blu-ray:

1. Phantom of the Opera
2. Superman Returns
3. Lady in the Water

....and so-on and so-on.

As far as I'm concerned, Warner is exclusive enough for me :o :p :o

Yep, WB at least counts as half an exclusive studio :D even in the TV Series Department
Smallville: Season 5 HD DVD Exclusive

So, are these 3 movies considered better than KK now? I'd have to say it's a draw with a slight nod to KK.

Oh yeah.... I forgot about Smallville.

So, are these 3 movies considered better than KK now? I'd have to say it's a draw with a slight nod to KK.

It took me a while to figure out that "KK" was King Kong and not "Killer Klowns"...

Fox is always fair when it comes to telling both sides of the story.
I recollect them saying that they were supporting BD because it had aready won the war, a few months ago. :rolleyes:

is it me or is their a slight edginess to Matrix 1 ? seems like any scene with a dark object in front of a white background has what looks like a halo. has edge enhancement made it into the future ?

is it me or is their a slight edginess to Matrix 1 ? seems like any scene with a dark object in front of a white background has what looks like a halo. has edge enhancement made it into the future ?

yes, there is a bit of edge enhancement in the first one but not the last 2 :D , all 3 are 5 star in PQ and AQ :D

:edit: I did not notice any edge enhancement artifacts

I recollect them saying that they were supporting BD because it had aready won the war, a few months ago. :rolleyes:

That's around the time they stopped printing them. :(

Why are you guy's so exited about smallville?

When's Warner going to announce Gilmore Girls in HD? I'd trash(sell) all my BDs for that title.

We watched the first Matrix movie tonight...

OMG!!! :eek: :)

It was simply phenomenal!
I was able to hear the sound just like I remembered it the 8 times I saw it at the movies. WOW! :eek:

We are savoring the other two for tonight. :D

We watched the first Matrix movie tonight...

OMG!!! :eek: :)

It was simply phenomenal!
I was able to hear the sound just like I remembered it the 8 times I saw it at the movies. WOW! :eek:

We are savoring the other two for tonight. :D
That's it I'm going into cryostasis.

That's it I'm going into cryostasis.
Why? :D

Warner (and CjPlay), thank you for the superb job done with The Matrix on HD DVD.

My little brown box arrived yesterday. at 1030pm i plopped in the 1st disk........ STUNNING ! :D

I am a huge Matrix fan, so it was like a veil was lifted off the SD DVD and an amazing amount of detail added.... scenes that i have seen over and over had new detail I never knew was there. Several times I caught myself rewinding to check out details... like when Neo tries to <Ctrl> <Alt> <Delete> his PC, the keyboard keys have an incredible texture!.... and so on throughout the movie.

The True THD track rocks and I thought there was a better balance to the surround.

I'm still waiting for my discs. :( And considering that Canada customs has been intercepting HD DVDs from Amazon.com lately (to charge us tax), I may just have to wait a bit longer, until after next weekend. :mad:

You guys suck. ;)

Warner (and CjPlay), thank you for the superb job done with The Matrix on HD DVD.

My little brown box arrived yesterday. at 1030pm i plopped in the 1st disk........ STUNNING ! :D

I am a huge Matrix fan, so it was like a veil was lifted off the SD DVD and an amazing amount of detail added.... scenes that i have seen over and over had new detail I never knew was there. Several times I caught myself rewinding to check out details... like when Neo tries to <Ctrl> <Alt> <Delete> his PC, the keyboard keys have an incredible texture!.... and so on throughout the movie.

The True THD track rocks and I thought there was a better balance to the surround.Your killing me. :D

Wow, great pics, I can't believe IGN gave The Matrix 8/10 for PQ :mad:
I can. I was very disappointed at the amount of digital noise and swimming backgrounds after hearing all the praise on this board. I'm about to pop in Matrix Reloaded, which I'm sure will be a better transfer.

I noticed a bit of digital noise myself on the first one.

I watched the 2nd and 3rd last night. The final fight scene with Smith and Neo is jaw dropping! Holy cow, the detail. I can see the stitch pattern on Smith's suit in that scene and it's so dark. Both part 2 and 3 are simply incredible.

I'd have to give it a 5 out of 5 also.

I am about 40 minutes into the second one and the only time I've seen digital noise was in the background of Locke's office, which is not so coincidentally the same kind of background where I saw it in the first movie (the rooms of the Nebuchadnezzar.) So far all the other scenes are looking great.

Just checked out the hd clips of The matrix on the xbox live marketplace and must say I was blown away. I for one cannot wait to see to see the whole film in HD. It looked like a brand new film.

Just checked out the hd clips of The matrix on the xbox live marketplace and must say I was blown away. I for one cannot wait to see to see the whole film in HD. It looked like a brand new film.
Yes, it most certainly did.

shadowrage.

precisly! hd-dvd cant hit those bitrates. and robin hood and grandprix although looking good. dont come nowhere near the matrix or pirates that is.

it is not to offend anyone. but it is so tiresome when people compare stuff what should not be compared. pirates has a higher bitrate and is shot on newer technology then the matrix. so ofcourse pirates will look better then the matrix. same reason why mission impossible 3 looks better then mission impossible 1.

so yeah pirates 2 is now the best looking movie on high def. who cares. it is logical. i would be way more surprised if it didnt look better then the matrix.

But the big question remains...Would POTC DMC look as good if it were encoded on HD-DVD. It simply can't. As to how much worse it would look is speculation at this point however it is possible that it wouldn't be called the best of both formats in that case.

As for The Matrix, I watched it on home theater with a 130 inch screen and I saw a whole lot of digital noise. I would place it in the low tier 1. I will wait a week before watching the other two and scrutinize those since I can't stand stand the sequels.

But the big question remains...Would POTC DMC look as good if it were encoded on HD-DVD. It simply can't. As to how much worse it would look is speculation at this point however it is possible that it wouldn't be called the best of both formats in that case.

So, how many credible reviewers have called it the best of the best?

Please do not bring up BeatBoy or whoever. We need credible source opinions.


In fact, skip all of that and bring your VS. argument back to your appropriate forum. This is a MATRIX HD-DVD movie discussion.

Just checked out the hd clips of The matrix on the xbox live marketplace and must say I was blown away. I for one cannot wait to see to see the whole film in HD. It looked like a brand new film.
What clips are you talking about from XBL? I downloaded "The Matrix" trailer in HD from XBL and it looked like a blown up and cropped to 16x9 DVD. I know the HD DVD s will look 10 times better but I thought it was ashame that MS was calling that trailer on XBL HD, it clearly wasn't.

I won't mention the 'T' word but all the Matrix movies would get 9/10 from me. Yes, there are very slight edge halos and I noticed a little noise here and there, but these HD versions are excellent representations of very tricky source material.

Just finished Reloaded. I'd give the first Matrix an 8 out of 10 and the second a 9 out of 10. I think they squeezed too many special features on each disc. I watched on a 101" screen with a 720p DLP projector. Perhaps the reviewers giving it perfect scores are watching on smaller displays. That shouldn't belittle it at all, though, because it's still one of the best movie watching experiences I've ever had at home.

at last, some sane people !!!!

why did this get 5/5 for PQ ? some of these reviewers are watching on screens that are TOO small. this is the problem with watching on 100"+ front projection displays. you get to see the flaws that others apparently don't.

on 100" @720, i had the same experience as the two posters above with Matrix 1. yes, there were halos (apparently it looks like studios can't produce transfers without these errors on many on their catalog titles ... sourced from old HD masters perhaps ? ). not happy about this. looks like the sharpening might have affected background details as they didn't look as good as i would have expected. although close ups looked fine.

4/5 for me. big kick up warner's backside for using edge enhancement though. hello ... this is high def ? WHY does is need sharpening ???????

But the big question remains...Would POTC DMC look as good if it were encoded on HD-DVD. It simply can't.

How could you possibly know that?

Just because it has a super-high bitrate doesn't mean it required one to look that good. The PQ is likely due to the really good master and may have looked the same with lower-bitrate Mpeg-2 or VC1 . Unless you personally worked on the transfer, I don't see how you could have this information.

...it's still one of the best movie watching experiences I've ever had at home.I second that. Wow. Just Wow!
I hadn't watched The Matrix in over a year now and was waiting to get it on HD DVD in order to watch it afresh; which I did this evening.
Great movie (of course ;) ) and wonderfully clear picture. The close-ups of the actors' faces revealing every pit and pore of their skin, Trinity in her shiny PVC clothes in glorious detail :D A great example is at the beginning of the scene where Neo and Trinity enter the heavily protected building where Morpheus is being held. The scene begins with a close-up of Neo's boots as he steps inside the building. On SD DVD you can make out somewhat fuzzy detail on his boots. In HD the texture of the boots' surfaces is wonderfully clear.
Really looking forward to watching Reloaded and Revolution now!

I'm a little tapped right now but I will get mine to soon. The Matrix was the first or second movie i bought on dvd. Saving private ryan was the movie that gave my surround sound life.

How could you possibly know that?

Just because it has a super-high bitrate doesn't mean it required one to look that good. The PQ is likely due to the really good master and may have looked the same with lower-bitrate Mpeg-2 or VC1 . Unless you personally worked on the transfer, I don't see how you could have this information.
They have a lot of self made and self taught experts in the BR section; didn't you get the memo? :D

The video quality may not be the best, but I think the audio is where it's at. The clarity of gunshots, dialog, and ambient effects is crystal clear, and the sounds move seamlessly around the soundstage. These three TrueHD tracks provide some of the best audio that I have ever experienced, and are perhaps the best the HD DVD format currently has to offer.

But the big question remains...Would POTC DMC look as good if it were encoded on HD-DVD. It simply can't.

Just like an mp3 at 256 kbps "simply can't" sound as good one at 384. Nope. Not possible. No such thing as diminishing returns. Nuh-uh. :rolleyes:


As for The Matrix, I watched it on home theater with a 130 inch screen and I saw a whole lot of digital noise.

Of course you did. All the other reveiwers with professional setups got it all wrong.

All the other reveiwers with professional setups got it all wrong.

you'd be surprised .... reviewers are not the holy grail. they been wrong before MANY times.

OK, for those who ask the question can PoTC look as good on HD DVD, only need to see the two versions of Flags of our Fathers. Same master, one is high bit rate AVc, other is standard VC-1. I believe the bit rate for Flags is in the same range as PoTC. Both look the same.

Why bring up PoTC, when Flags of our Fathers already exist. I know why. It's because dealing in facts is a lot more boring that speculating. The proof is in the tasting, not the recipe.

The Matrix and PoTC are different movies and will look different. You can't compare them. I am surprised people aren't comparing Casino Royale with KK! Unless they are the same titles, comparison makes no sense. JMHO.

And for the guy posting his review on a 720p set up. Just remember you are not seeing the full resolution. I would assume most professional reviewers would at least start with a reference system - that includes 1080p display....

It's because dealing in facts is a lot more boring that speculating. The proof is in the tasting, not the recipe.
Well said. Research takes time and effort and is a different type of skill/behaviour than voicing (often uninformed) opinions.

What clips are you talking about from XBL? I downloaded "The Matrix" trailer in HD from XBL and it looked like a blown up and cropped to 16x9 DVD. I know the HD DVD s will look 10 times better but I thought it was ashame that MS was calling that trailer on XBL HD, it clearly wasn't.
Check out the Movie clips section and you will see about 5 clips you can download in either SD or HD. They look freaking sweet.

Well, just to be fair and balanced :o

I'm watching a Panny 53x54 CRT that has only been calibrated by myself. Greg Loewen is coming within the coming weeks to do a full real calibration.

I sit 9' away and I could see the noise on M1. The shot's that needed to be detailed were and I don't recall which scene's. But there was some definite noise. I didn't happen to notice any on M2 and I noticed one shot of it in M3. Not saying there wasn't more. It's just what I noticed.

That said. On the same setup sitting at the distance I do and the dark scene's in M3. I could still see the stitching on the fabric of Smith's suit and his pore's all in that dark environment in the final battle. I was in awe with that whole sequence. It was just so much more powerful when it is that clear and detailed. For that, I can forgive the flaw of noise I witnessed earlier in the movie.


Personally, KK is still king of my hill. But I am still very impressed. Maybe I will have to watch M3 and KK back to back and then make the call again.

But the big question remains...Would POTC DMC look as good if it were encoded on HD-DVD. It simply can't. As to how much worse it would look is speculation at this point however it is possible that it wouldn't be called the best of both formats in that case.
Supermans, I dare you to post this on the Insiders Thread and ask the people involved in transfering movies to Hi-Def if your post is in fact a correct statement.
I know you won't, because you don't have clue as to what you're talking about.
What is speculation is the above quote.
This gets so tiresome because it is so typical.
People posting their opinion as fact when in reality they don't know their a$$ from a pineapple.

Of course you did. All the other reveiwers with professional setups got it all wrong.
After finishing Revolutions tonight, I'm wondering if they only watched Reloaded. Just like the first movie, a lot of the backgrounds in the "real world", especially on the ships, were dancing with digital noise. And this is on a D65 calibrated projector. I'd give Revo an 8/10 for PQ, like the first movie, and I agree with the IGN review. These movies will still be showpieces for HD. It's not like you show the first time Neo wakes up to your friends as the demo scene.

Will it ever end? Can't we HD DVD fellas just enjoy our Matrix without the inevitable Penis Envy from BDers? Let it REST. I'm sure BOTH POTC & Matrix Sets look stunning and will be showpieces for each format. (until 300 comes along ;))....

For the Love of God lets enjoy these marque films that we fans have been wanting.

Will it ever end? Can't we HD DVD fellas just enjoy our Matrix without the inevitable Penis Envy from BDers? Let it REST. I'm sure BOTH POTC & Matrix Sets look stunning and will be showpieces for each format. (until 300 comes along ;))....

For the Love of God lets enjoy these marque films that we fans have been wanting.

Anytime there is a title that is overhyped, there are people who are itching to knock it down a peg.

BTW, digital noise could be the result of a particular scene that was shot with digital cameras. I also assume that films that are full of CGI are pretty heavily processed when being manipulated in post-production, which could have caused artifacts. It's also possible that the master contained errors that were overlooked during the original transfer.

Any one of these could contribute to a noisy image and do not automatically suggest the discs are overcompressed.

Will it ever end? Can't we HD DVD fellas just enjoy our Matrix without the inevitable Penis Envy from BDers? Let it REST. I'm sure BOTH POTC & Matrix Sets look stunning and will be showpieces for each format. (until 300 comes along ;))....

For the Love of God lets enjoy these marque films that we fans have been wanting.
It's called playa hating. :D

I wish they would retun to Blu-world and enjoy their POTC as much as we are enjoying our "Matrix." :p

After finishing Revolutions tonight, I'm wondering if they only watched Reloaded. Just like the first movie, a lot of the backgrounds in the "real world", especially on the ships, were dancing with digital noise. And this is on a D65 calibrated projector. I'd give Revo an 8/10 for PQ, like the first movie, and I agree with the IGN review. These movies will still be showpieces for HD. It's not like you show the first time Neo wakes up to your friends as the demo scene.


I don't know where u are getting the noise from, i give the PQ 5 stars across all 3 with the first having a hint of edge enhancement but with no artifacts. its my new demo disk. and Hulk :D

After watching the Matrix and Reload lastnight, I must say I am kinda disapointed, dont get me wrong, is not bad, is very good PQ indeed, but a killer title like Matrix I expect the same jaw-dropping eye poping 3D candy like King Kong does but sorry, none.

I don't know where u are getting the noise from, i give the PQ 5 stars across all 3 with the first having a hint of edge enhancement but with no artifacts. its my new demo disk. and Hulk :D
Please look at any background while they are on the ships in 1 and 3. Especially when Neo is sitting in the bunk (they recreate it for 3, as they do a lot of shots from the 1st.) Also reference the background in Locke's office in the second movie (the only time I remember seeing it.) It looks like the very same noise I've been seeing on static DVD backgrounds for years and years. Also, the scenes outside of the ship at the end of 2 and beginning of 3 look bad, but I think that's actually just the fog.

Anytime there is a title that is overhyped, there are people who are itching to knock it down a peg.

BTW, digital noise could be the result of a particular scene that was shot with digital cameras. I also assume that films that are full of CGI are pretty heavily processed when being manipulated in post-production, which could have caused artifacts. It's also possible that the master contained errors that were overlooked during the original transfer.

Any one of these could contribute to a noisy image and do not automatically suggest the discs are overcompressed.

True.

It's hard to say if this is because the source has it or it's the encode.

Wanna know how well The Matrix is gonna do?

Every HD DVD owner will more than likely buy one, new adopters will sign on to HD DVD just to buy one. Several BD supporters in your BR forum have gone format neutral just to get one (thebland included).

Your honor, the defence rests. :p

So ...are you saying there are only 13,900 HD DVD owners + new adapters? Can you clarify your position please. Clearly, everything I've said about The Matrix was spot on. The new Nielsen numbers that just came out have shown this.

So ...are you saying there are only 13,900 HD DVD owners + new adapters? Can you clarify your position please. Clearly, everything I've said about The Matrix was spot on. The new Nielsen numbers that just came out have shown this.

The nielsen numbers also show the pathetic numbers of Pirates of the Caribbean

I have a question for the Matrix HD-DVD owners. I was checking out the Matrix Reloaded HD trailer on XBOX Live. Yes, it looked great, and was a definite improvement over the SD trailer. But I still noticed lots of blocking and artifacts. Particularly around the chalet outside scenes where Neo takes off and flies away. Does it look like this on the HD-DVD as well? I see that the Digest gave this a 5 star rating, and the blocking I saw wouldn't support that so I am curious. It's quite possible the HD-DVD picture is better than the HD trailer on XBLA. Thoughts? Thanks!

I'm pretty sure that's due to compression of the trailer. I'm sure the movie doesn't have that.

After finishing Revolutions tonight, I'm wondering if they only watched Reloaded. Just like the first movie, a lot of the backgrounds in the "real world", especially on the ships, were dancing with digital noise. And this is on a D65 calibrated projector. I'd give Revo an 8/10 for PQ, like the first movie, and I agree with the IGN review. These movies will still be showpieces for HD. It's not like you show the first time Neo wakes up to your friends as the demo scene.
I watched some of the MATRIX last night and noticed quite a bit of some type of digital noise in dark seens, glad Im not the only one noticing this. My projector is not D65 calibrated, only used AVIA and DVE, but it is a SONY RUBY and I assume fairly accurate in black level? I have to admit that when they did a close up on Trinitys face it was flawless showing every last ounce of detail possible. I have not seen any HD DVD titles that matched that seen IMO. To me it was off and on though, with some great seens and some average seens. Hopefully I will take a second look tonight since I was half asleep last night.

I watched some of the MATRIX last night and noticed quite a bit of some type of digital noise in dark seens, glad Im not the only one noticing this.

Are we talking about digital noise, or film grain that is present in the original master?

Definitely digital noise. I doubt there's only film grain in dark blue/dark brown backgrounds and not anywhere else.

Ok now Im a little worried if only NoThru22 and I are seeing this digital noise in dark senes? I don't have a ton of experience with this stuff but know Im seeing some kind of artifact or something that I don't see in every movie with dark scenes? I would like to fix this issue if possible, could some one point me in the right direction please? I have a dedicated HT with complete light control, black ceiling and front screen wall and faux suede colored walls. I am using a SONY RUBY projector with a 110" Silverstar screen and playing movies on a Toshiba XA2 thru hdmi cables from MONOPRICE and a 5 port MONOPRICE switcher. The cables seem to be of good quality and very thick, they run about 30 feet to the projector. I ran 3 separate 120v/15amp lines into the theater for dedicated subwoofer,audio and video for RUBY. The audio is filtered with a Panamax pro series surge protector and the RUBY is protected by one of those flat panel Belkin surge protectors? Could this Belkin surge protector be creating some garbage (digital noise) on the line for the projector? I know the Panamax is much better quality, maybe try plugging into that for a while instead? Any ideas or similar experience this with would be much appreciated, thanks in advance.

Film grain is most evident in dark scenes (just like in regular photography), so it's not improbable at all.
And don't fear grain - it's good for you!
:)

I'm still waiting for my discs. :( And considering that Canada customs has been intercepting HD DVDs from Amazon.com lately (to charge us tax), I may just have to wait a bit longer, until after next weekend. :mad:
OK. I got them and watched all three movies.

Revolutions and Reloaded look and sound good.

The first Matrix looks great and sounds great... but not at the same time. I was very disappointed to find out that Matrix suffers from audio sync issues (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=852298). I simply can't comprehend how such a major release could have gotten out with such an issue. I admit it's mild, but it's obvious to me. And if it's obvious to me I would have figured it would be obvious to whomever was authoring the disc. I guess not.

Warner, what are you going to do about it?

Film grain is most evident in dark scenes (just like in regular photography), so it's not improbable at all.
And don't fear grain - it's good for you!
:)
Thanks I think that is what Im seeing, just didn't realize it before. Its not as bothersome when I know its suppose to be there. I watched it again tonight and have to agree with the 5star rating. I thought KING KONG was the reference standard for a long time but not any more. The detail is unbelievable even in the action scenes. This is going to be a tough one to beat IMO, cant wait to watch the other two now. So I am retracting any negative comments I may have made about this transfer even with the intended film grain.

OK. I got them and watched all three movies.

Revolutions and Reloaded look and sound good.

The first Matrix looks great and sounds great... but not at the same time. I was very disappointed to find out that Matrix suffers from audio sync issues (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=852298). I simply can't comprehend how such a major release could have gotten out with such an issue. I admit it's mild, but it's obvious to me. And if it's obvious to me I would have figured it would be obvious to whomever was authoring the disc. I guess not.

Warner, what are you going to do about it?


well from what i have seen its only people using optical out if your using hdmi then you will not have the sync issues.

I've only watched the first two so far - both are impressive for audio and picture quality. It is a shame that The Matrix suffers from Edge Enhancement, why they are still doing this on HD disks is beyond me...

I first noticed it on the scene where Mr. Anderson is being chewed out by his boss at the start of the movie, It was also very noticeable in any of the white room scenes.

At least on HD when EE is applied is is much less noticeable and doesn't completely trash the image like it does on DVD, higher res = smaller outlines.

- Rick