. American Gangster (Mar 27) :
http://www.amazon.de/American-Gangster-HD-DVD/dp/B000ZYLRPS/
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0765429/

http://hddvdformat.blogspot.com/.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Early Details of 'American Gangster' On HD DVD
Early information indicates that American Gangster will be available to own in high-definition exclusively on HD DVD/DVD Combo disc, come March 2008 (tentatively).

Expect the main feature on the disc to be presented in 1080p High Definition 1.85:1 with Dolby Digital-Plus audio tracks. Additional audio tracks pending confirmation.

Supplemental materials include but may not be limited to:
• Feature Commentary with Director Ridley Scott
• Fallen Empire - The Making of American Gangster/Tru Blu - The Real Story
• Deleted scenes including an alternate opening
• Uncovering the Past - The Real Frank Lucas & Richie Roberts
HD DVD-exclusive bonus features include:
• U-Control Picture-in-Picture Instant Access to Behind-the-Scenes featurettes
• Web-enabled features (My Scenes Sharing, etc.)
Stay tuned for further information when this title is finally announced

Hopefully Universal pulls through and gives us TrueHD. I loved this movie, definitely picking it up.

http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Disc_Announcements/Universal_Reveals_Early_American_Gangster_HD_DVD_Details/1258




hidefdigest says it will have a dolbytruehd track, yay

Haven't seen it - but friends who have say it's the best film of the year. Definitely be picking it up.

Here's the movie discussion: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=918717&highlight=gangster

larry

http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Disc_Announcements/Universal_Reveals_Early_American_Gangster_HD_DVD_Details/1258




hidefdigest says it will have a dolbytruehd track, yay

They haven't been very accurate...

They mentioned that 'The Kingdom' will have Dolby TrueHD 5.1 before Universal announced the title (Source: http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Disc_Announcements/Exclusive_HD_Content/Universal/Universal_Brings_The_Kingdom_to_HD_DVD_this_December/1149 & http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/1232/kingdom2007.html)

But it turns out when The Kingdom HD DVD was finally announced by Universal with complete details, NO TrueHD 5.1 track was found in the disc spec. (Source: http://hddvdformat.blogspot.com/2007/11/universal-pictures-kingdom-on-hd-dvd.html). In fact, I don't think Universal promised a TrueHD track before The Kingdom was announced on HD DVD...

This movie is just down right excellent, definitely in my top 5 favorites of the year, but like Bourne, I am boycotting it until we get a non-combo release.

This movie is just down right excellent, definitely in my top 5 favorites of the year, but like Bourne, I am boycotting it until we get a non-combo release.

I am leaning to the same.. I don't know though, I liked the movie way too much..

Ok movie , not sure if I will get it on hd. All depends on cost.

One eTailer posted a note at HDD that the street date for American Gangster has been moved up to Feb 19:

http://www.hdmoviesource.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=1366

Mark

One eTailer posted a note at HDD that the street date for American Gangster has been moved up to Feb 19:

http://www.hdmoviesource.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=1366

Mark

Thats pretty amazing, still in movie theaters here .. I'll definitely be picking it up right away, Feb or March. Great movie IMO.

http://www.dvdactive.com/news/releases/american-gangster.html.

This movie is just down right excellent, definitely in my top 5 favorites of the year, but like Bourne, I am boycotting it until we get a non-combo release.

Looks like you will never see it. It was a good movie. I say the best in the series. I don't mind combos one bit. Never had an issue with any of them. Have 20 or so and all play perfectly.

http://www.dvdtown.com/images/displayimage.php?id=8149

Feb 19th?! Nice! A few more good titles for Q1 like this and we'll already have a better selection of new (to HD DVD) releases then we did for this years Q1. =)

Feb 19th?! Nice! A few more good titles for Q1 like this and we'll already have a better selection of new (to HD DVD) releases then we did for this years Q1. =)

+1:D

damn another buyer. wow so im going from 6 hd dvd to about 30 in ohh 3 months watch out wallet.

Universal just announced a 3-disc edition of the movie for standard def dvd. I really hope Universal doesn't screw us on this one, similar to Knocked Up with it's lack of the 2-disc dvd extras (which were hilarious). Also, with Ray, they left extras from the 3-disc set off of the hd-dvd release. We are now looking at a 3-hour movie, with PiP commentary and possibly a trueHD track. Somehow I don't see that, commentaries, and 2 discs worth of special features making the port.

Hey Universal...I know you can't magically make your HD discs grow by 66% (or can you?), so how about a 2-disc HD-DVD release for once?

Ok HD-DVD has been out for a year. Time for the studios drop that stupid "The Look and Sound of Perfect" silver thing and give us the complete cover art.

Universal just announced a 3-disc edition of the movie for standard def dvd. I really hope Universal doesn't screw us on this one, similar to Knocked Up with it's lack of the 2-disc dvd extras (which were hilarious). Also, with Ray, they left extras from the 3-disc set off of the hd-dvd release. We are now looking at a 3-hour movie, with PiP commentary and possibly a trueHD track. Somehow I don't see that, commentaries, and 2 discs worth of special features making the port.

Hey Universal...I know you can't magically make your HD discs grow by 66% (or can you?), so how about a 2-disc HD-DVD release for once?

+1 +1 +1

Classic overhyped, mediocre movie; not interested, thanks.

New cover art:

http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4750/original.jpeg

http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/First_Look:_American_Gangster_HD_DVD_Box_Art/1307

Can't wait! :)

Great film & a killer soundtrack! I cannot wait for this one.

I almost peed in my pants looking at that cover.


I can't wait

Haven't seen it - but friends who have say it's the best film of the year. Definitely be picking it up.

definitely not the best movie of the year. Good flick, but not great. Probably still worth owning.

A must buy...can't wait! ;):p:D;)

New cover art:

http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/4/4750/original.jpeg

http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/First_Look:_American_Gangster_HD_DVD_Box_Art/1307

YES!!! :D
I love the new box art.
I saw it at the theater...get ready to be wowed boys!:D

Damn they revised the artwork but kept it a combo. Looks like a rental for me.

i can't wait

Damn they revised the artwork but kept it a combo. Looks like a rental for me.

You rent...the rest of we HD DVDers buy! buy!! buy!!!:D

There was no reason to think that this wasn't going to be a combo release ... Anyways I really love that cover art, and i loved the movie so a must buy.

You rent...the rest of we HD DVDers buy! buy!! buy!!!:D

I would Buy, BUY, BUY right now if it wasn't a combo. Until then no film, no matter how good, will get me to buy a combo.

Never really had an "issue" with combos. I have owned 3 total that were messed up and upon getting another copy they have worked perfectly... Different strokes... I will be purchasing and enjoying this one for sure!

I would Buy, BUY, BUY right now if it wasn't a combo. Until then no film, no matter how good, will get me to buy a combo.

Your loss. I am yet to have any issue with combos; and I have over 35 of them. Combos are here to stay.:p

definitely not the best movie of the year. Good flick, but not great.

I totally agree, not a great film, but a good one.

I've played many combos and most have played perfect but when a brand new release like Bourne Ultimatum locks up my player it is frustrating as hell. The only HD DVD's I have ever had problems with are combos.

My A35 locked up when the American Gangster combo was announced. :rolleyes:

Mike

You rent...the rest of we HD DVDers buy! buy!! buy!!!:D


It will be mine!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Damn they revised the artwork but kept it a combo. Looks like a rental for me.

Why the dislike by some for Combos? I tend to like them so I can watch on my HD DVD player, or my SD DVD players in other parts of the house.

Why the dislike by some for Combos? I tend to like them so I can watch on my HD DVD player, or my SD DVD players in other parts of the house.

Combos are a great idea, if they played perfectly for everybody. I bought an A1 back in Aug. 06 and had great success with combos at first as I thought these people on here with problems were either crazy or didn't know how to operate a player. Well over some time and now having an A35 also I have had several lockups, glitches, pauses, etc. on both of my players. I've never had a problem with a non-combo HD DVD. So, if you've never had a problem with a combo you are one of the lucky few and you have a golden player.

Mike

I can't wait for this release! It's one of the main reasons that I bought an HD DVD player. Has anyone confirmed that the HD release will also be the extended version like the regular DVD. The packaging for the DVD release says on the from "unrated extended edition", but that is no where on the HD packaging. I will be pissed if they just release the theatrical version on HD like Fox did with Die Hard 4 on Blu Ray!

Why the dislike by some for Combos? I tend to like them so I can watch on my HD DVD player, or my SD DVD players in other parts of the house.

I'd only watch a movie in the best possible manner or not at all. So that gives me absolutely no need for a low-quality, SD version of my movies to be glued onto the backside of my HD media.

I also consider myself a movie collector. So I never lend out my discs to anyone. They never come back in the same condition as they were lent out.

I also don't like the fact that there is no disc art. It makes it look like my movie is some bootleg I bought in some back alley.

The price is also unattractive. Especially considering that I have no use for the SD side of the disc. I don't like the idea of spending more for my movies for features that I will NEVER use.

Oh lets not forget the playback problems that people have. I'll let the daily combo problem threads that pop up here on a daily basis be a testament to that fact.

So in essence, Combo discs are the one format that I do not support. It's a third format in my eyes alongside HD DVD and Blu-ray.

Anymore questions?

So, if you've never had a problem with a combo you are one of the lucky few and you have a golden player.

All hail my golden HD-A2!! ;) It's never had a problem with a combo (knock on wood).

This will be a blind buy for me! :D

Mixed opinions about this one when I viewed it in the theater with 3 other friends. I liked it but I always recommend a rental as there is no accounting for one's taste for movie content. You've been warned! :)

Is still still slated for a February 19 release date? At least that's what I saw on a few threads up. Wasn't it originally March? Can someone confirm or have any credible news?

Thanks !

I really was hoping that this HD-DVD would have been a 2 disk set or at least have a True HD track w/all the extras in HD, BUT i guess it being a combo Universal release doesn't surprize me.

without a doubt a must buy for me :):):)

I totally agree, not a great film, but a good one.

+1 I expected a better film.

damn another buyer. wow so im going from 6 hd dvd to about 30 in ohh 3 months watch out wallet.

+1

18 since x-mas:D

With all of the Warner stuff that recently happened, I hope Universal still plans to release this film on HD DVD as scheduled. If they delay the title, I'd start to get worried about Universal and it's future with HD DVD!

Can't wait for this release...

If you are on the fence, rent it. I cannot emphasize this more especially with this film. It isn't going to appeal to lots of folks, trust me!

If this doesn't show up on February 19, DO NOT PANIC! As far as I know, just a SINGLE site (Pacific) has American Gangster listed for February 19. That date might not be accurate. In fact, the early press release on American Gangster suggested a release sometime in March.

Personally, I hope Feb 19 is accurate because I'm anxiously awaiting this movie on HD DVD!

Mark

Classic overhyped, mediocre movie; not interested, thanks.

Then why even clck on the thread?? Just to troll?

Lame.


Excellent movie! Must buy for me!

According to DVD Times, the HD combo will offer theatrical and extended cuts ONLY on the SD side. The HD side will only offer the theatrical cut!

Also, the HD is not offering many of the extras available. It might be worth waiting to see what comes out in the UK, where they don't do combos.

This should have been a two-disc set, with the extras. HD DVD needs all the help it can get right now, and this seems a rather half-hearted release unfortunately.

Meh, that sucks. Still, I plan on getting it.

According to DVD Times, the HD combo will offer theatrical and extended cuts ONLY on the SD side. The HD side will only offer the theatrical cut!

Also, the HD is not offering many of the extras available. It might be worth waiting to see what comes out in the UK, where they don't do combos.

This should have been a two-disc set, with the extras. HD DVD needs all the help it can get right now, and this seems a rather half-hearted release unfortunately.

I can live without the extended cut in HD. But to leave off all those extras is like Knocked Up all over again. Why not just do a 2-disc set like Paramount does?

If this doesn't show up on February 19, DO NOT PANIC! As far as I know, just a SINGLE site (Pacific) has American Gangster listed for February 19. That date might not be accurate. In fact, the early press release on American Gangster suggested a release sometime in March.

Personally, I hope Feb 19 is accurate because I'm anxiously awaiting this movie on HD DVD!

Mark

I pre-ordered at HDMoviesource.com... They list Feb. 19th. $29.99

Official Press Release: http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=109&STORY=/www/story/01-16-2008/0004737886&EDATE=

The Original Theatrical Film AND The Unrated Extended Edition
AVAILABLE ON DVD & HD DVD February 19, 2008 FROM UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOME
ENTERTAINMENT

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 16 /PRNewswire/ --

OVERVIEW: Inspired by a true story, "American Gangster," the grippingly
intense crime-thriller acclaimed by critics and audiences as one of the
best films of 2007, will be available in two versions on the exclusive
"American Gangster" 2-Disc Unrated Extended Edition DVD that includes both
an unrated, extended movie with over 18 additional minutes and an alternate
ending PLUS the original theatrical film. Academy Award(R) winners Denzel
Washington and Russell Crowe portray one of Harlem's most notorious crime
bosses and the outcast cop who pursues him, respectively, ultimately
leading to a climactic confrontation that alters the destiny of an entire
generation in New York City. Directed by Ridley Scott and produced by Brian
Grazer and Scott, "American Gangster" boasts an all-star cast including
Josh Brolin, Ruby Dee, Cuba Gooding, Jr., Chiwetel Ejiofor, Armand Assante,
Carla Gugino, and popular rap artists Common, RZA and Tip "T.I." Harris.

In addition, the "American Gangster" 3-Disc Collector's Edition,
available for a limited time only, includes over five hours of bonus
features, a 32-page collectible book and a downloadable digital copy of the
unrated, extended film. Also available on February 19 is "Gangsters: The
Ultimate Film Collection," a nine-disc set containing four of Hollywood's
most iconic gangster films including "American Gangster," "Scarface,"
"Casino" and "Carlito's Way."



CONTENT BREAKDOWN / BONUS FEATURES:
2-Disc Unrated Extended Edition
Disc 1
-- Unrated Extended Version -- 18 additional minutes of never-before-seen
footage and an alternate ending
-- Original Theatrical Version Including Commentary with Director Ridley
Scott and Writer Steven Zaillian


Disc 2
-- Deleted Scenes- Including an alternate opening
-- Fallen Empire: Making "American Gangster"
-- Tru Blu: The Real Story: An in-depth look at the true story that
inspired the movie and the long road to developing the film.
Featuring interviews with the former real-life Harlem crime boss
Frank Lucas and now retired detective Richie Roberts
-- Killer Threads: A look at how the world of the 1970's was brought
back to life
-- Crime War: Follow production from the streets of NY to the jungles
of Thailand
-- Rhythm of the Streets: Look into the film's music, featuring tracks
such as "Do You Feel Me" performed by Anthony Hamilton
-- Into the Arena: Ali vs. Frazier: Setting up the infamous Ali-Frazier
fight


-- Case Files
-- Setting Up the Takedown -- Be on the set as Ridley Scott directs the
climactic drug bust and watch this master director at work
-- Script Meeting: A look into the production office where director
Ridley Scott, writer Steven Zaillian, and detective Richie Roberts
discuss the script and break down of the scenes.
-- Drug Test: Ridley Scott receives information on the preparation of
heroin from a New York detective


3-Disc Collector's Edition
Includes Above Bonus Features PLUS
-- Hip Hop Infusion -- Featuring popular rap artists Common and Tip "T.I."
Harris discussing their roles
-- Music Videos
-- Do You Feel Me (Remix) Performed by Anthony Hamilton featuring
Ghostface Killah
-- Blue Magic From Jay-Z's album "American Gangster"
-- BET Special -- The Making of "American Gangster"
-- Dateline NBC: "American Gangster" First Look
-- Digital Copy of the Unrated Extended Movie For Your PC

SO MINE ON RELEASE DAY! :)

It's bad enough that the movie is a crappy combo disc, but now only the theatrical cut!? I will not buy this until the extended cut is released as a non-combo. It's the same thing I did for the Unrated version of Live Free of Die Hard on Blu-ray.

I hope Universal pulls a "Miami Vice" and they release the 'R' rated version in SD and the Unrated version in HD. We'll have to wait for further details. :)

Confirmed details:

Theatrical on the HD side, with deleted scenes, U-Control, Web crap, and only one featurette (a slap in the face when you take a look at the 3-disc, or even the 2-disc SD releases)

Both the theatrical and unrated cuts are present on the SD side, along with a commentary track on the theatrical version.

I think I'll just be purchasing the 3-disc collector's edition

Universal seriously needs to get on the ball and release 2 disc sets!

What a bunch of crap.

It used to be the reverse; HD-DVD got the whole slew of Limited Edition features from Jarhead and Cinderella Man -- but now we get a slap in the face crippled-ass edition of American Gangster...?

Is this the Universal game plan to counter the expected migration to Blu-Ray; feed them garbage so they just go back to DVD instead?!

Whoever is calling the shots over there is making it very difficult to continue supporting this format.

What a bunch of crap.

It used to be the reverse; HD-DVD got the whole slew of Limited Edition features from Jarhead and Cinderella Man -- but now we get a slap in the face crippled-ass edition of American Gangster...?

Is this the Universal game plan to counter the expected migration to Blu-Ray; feed them garbage so they just go back to DVD instead?!

Whoever is calling the shots over there is making it very difficult to continue supporting this format.

I agree. I was SO looking forward to this set. The HD set should have the MOST features by far. HD collectors are the exact target group most likely to buy the 3 disc DVD set. The HD set should have all of that plus the extras/film in HD.

Look at what Warner did with Blade Runner. The HD sets w/o the briefcase actually had the 5th disc that was ONLY present in the DVD briefcase (ie: Warner knew that HD purchasers were their niche movie-fan audience). I want that 3 disc set in HD more than anything announced this quarter- sigh...

Hidefdigest link (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Disc_Announcements/Universal_Sets_American_Gangster_HD_DVD_Date/1380)


Pretty weak

I will now not be purchasing this title. Universal can go screw themselves.

I agree. I was SO looking forward to this set. The HD set should have the MOST features by far. HD collectors are the exact target group most likely to buy the 3 disc DVD set. The HD set should have all of that plus the extras/film in HD.

Look at what Warner did with Blade Runner. The HD sets w/o the briefcase actually had the 5th disc that was ONLY present in the DVD briefcase (ie: Warner knew that HD purchasers were their niche movie-fan audience). I want that 3 disc set in HD more than anything announced this quarter- sigh...

I agree. Big releases like this needs to get the works. Why hold back with the the lossless sound and other features. This disappoints me. Why can't every studio be like Disney. All of my Disney movies are fully loaded. Universal is holding back too much. They need to put their heart into this and stop with the half hearted stuff.

Well everybody says the theatrical cut is fine, so I have no problem buying it.

Usually they just add scenes to trick people buy it, because they believe more is better.

Often it just end up with the movie losses its pacing and its balance.

Another DD+ movie on HD-DVD. What gives?

Another DD+ movie on HD-DVD. What gives?

I bet it is a space issue. Same reason only the theatrical cut is on the HD side. I will rent this disc, something tells me since it is a combo its going to cause problems anyways. :(


Mike

This cracks me up, Ever sence warner went "blue" these HD DVD forums have been plaqued with thread crapping trolls. The only reason this Major Blockbuster is a "rental only" or "screw universal" or "combo, no thanks" is only the simple fact that its not on blue ray. I can name HUNDREDS of blue rays that are NOT the unrated version but yet you still bought them! In fact, I can name hundreds of blue ray exclusive movies that had MUCH better feature's on the SD DVD then blue counter part had. Grow up!

This is actually pretty s****y.

I've always favored HD-DVD, though I'm a neutral owner.

But this sucks, no trolling about it. I don't care how many special features were left off Chain Reaction or Planet Of The Apes. That's what you come to expect from Blu-Ray; not HD-DVD.

What this looks like to me is an indication of HD-DVD's space limitations.

They could easily correct this by making it a 2 or 3-disc HD set that replicates the best of the DVD set. You know...in HD, like we signed up for!

For older movies, not having bonus content in HD is excusable. But for a movie like American Gangster, there is no reason why we should not be getting a full-HD version of the best DVD set.

I would gladly pay more for a 3-disc American Gangster in HD. I'd likely pay full list price for it if I had to.

A potential purchase screwed up by the recent spec announcement. Damn you UNIVERSAL.
I don't think this is due to lack of space considering the presence of titles like TROY D.C. It's the lackluster attitude of the Studios which think consumers will buy whatever sh*t they throw upon them.

A potential purchase screwed up by the recent spec announcement. Damn you UNIVERSAL.
I don't think this is due to lack of space considering the presence of titles like TROY D.C. It's the lackluster attitude of the Studios which think consumers will buy whatever sh*t they throw upon them.

Its worked for Fox....

It's bad enough that the movie is a crappy combo disc, but now only the theatrical cut!? I will not buy this until the extended cut is released as a non-combo. It's the same thing I did for the Unrated version of Live Free of Die Hard on Blu-ray.

Off topic, but I watched both the unrated and rated versions of Live Free or Die Hard, and the unrated version adds absolutely nothing to the experience. It's the exact same movie either way.

Its worked for Fox....

But fox has always put lossless audio.

But fox has always put lossless audio.

Sure they do but is there ANY players that can even decode it? The ONLY lossless they've EVER used was DTS-MA ... they might as well not even put it there in the first place seeing as though not ONE player can decode it lol

Doesn't matter dude. The 1.5 Mbps core is strong enough when compared to the DD+ tracks I have listened so far. DTS-HD MA is future proof. Let's come back to topic. What's with UNIVERSAL ? Each and every move by UNIVERSAL is closely monitored by HDM fans and making these kind of announcements is only spoiling their reputation.

Doesn't matter dude. The 1.5 Mbps core is strong enough when compared to the DD+ tracks I have listened so far. DTS-HD MA is future proof. Let's come back to topic. What's with UNIVERSAL ? Each and every move by UNIVERSAL is closely monitored by HDM fans and making these kind of announcements is only spoiling their reputation.

Your kidding right? DD+ starts at 1.5 and goes to 3.0 Mbps, Yeah it's future proof but your using it in an argument NOW, Not the future! Now go back on topic.

DD+ from Uni again?!?!?!

The Look of Perfect, and the sound of Lossy"

Your kidding right? DD+ starts at 1.5 and goes to 3.0 Mbps, Yeah it's future proof but your using it in an argument NOW, Not the future! Now go back on topic.

Let me know the list of DD+ titles that touches 3 Mbps ?
Many audiophiles have agreed that DTS-HD MA is the best of the pack.

Let me know the list of DD+ titles that touches 3 Mbps ?
Many audiophiles have agreed that DTS-HD MA is the best of the pack.

Placebo effect.

But I doubt many will say that 1,5mbs core dts is better then 1,5mbs dd+

1,5mbs dd+ works just fine.

Here we have one unknown title Placebo effect against a barrage of DTS-HD MA titles !!!

You cant compare different titles.

Let me know the list of DD+ titles that touches 3 Mbps ?
Many audiophiles have agreed that DTS-HD MA is the best of the pack.

Best of what pack? Most people don't have receivers capable of decoding DTS HD MA. So our receivers or the player decodes the 1.5 Mbps core. DD+ on most titles except Warner's half-baked ones runs at 1.5 Mbps and I don't know many titles which can touch Transformers DD+ 1.5 Mbps track.

Off topic, but I watched both the unrated and rated versions of Live Free or Die Hard, and the unrated version adds absolutely nothing to the experience. It's the exact same movie either way.

I disagree. Hence, my wait for an unrated Blu-ray version of Live Free or Die Hard.

Taking out the swearing in a Die Hard movie is like taking out Harrison Fords' hat in an Indiana Jones movie.

I disagree. Hence, my wait for an unrated Blu-ray version of Live Free or Die Hard.

Taking out the swearing in a Die Hard movie is like taking out Harrison Fords' hat in an Indiana Jones movie.

Or the teeth in JAWS.

Well you would be suprised if you think adding just of couple of bad words gonna make Die Hard 4 feel more like a Die hard movie.

They changed the movie a little to much for that.

This cracks me up, Ever sence warner went "blue" these HD DVD forums have been plaqued with thread crapping trolls. The only reason this Major Blockbuster is a "rental only" or "screw universal" or "combo, no thanks" is only the simple fact that its not on blue ray. I can name HUNDREDS of blue rays that are NOT the unrated version but yet you still bought them! In fact, I can name hundreds of blue ray exclusive movies that had MUCH better feature's on the SD DVD then blue counter part had. Grow up!

Huh? That's complete BS. I own more HD DVD's than Blu-Rays (approximately 100 vs. 50), and favor HD DVD strongly over Blu-Ray.

How am I a troll if the HD DVD has:

1. No lossless audio
2. No unrated cut
3. No booklet like the DVD (that I know of, this may be included)
4. Multiple features missing from the DVD.

Spin it however you want to by blaming it on Blu-Ray, but this release is an utter disappointment compared to the 3 disc DVD. I really don't see how you can argue with the 4 points I posted above. If these 4 points were added, this would be THE release of the first quarter, IMO. I still plan on buying it anyway, but I may wait now to find it on a BOGO or something. The specs really dampered this release for me personally.

Cant wait for this on HD-DVD, this was a fantastic movie

http://images.dailytech.com/nimage/7074_original.jpg

I know it's just a promotional design, but...
it looks like it's the size of a standard DVD amaray case.

what is Universal planning...? :)

...snip...

it looks like it's the size of a standard DVD amaray case.

what is Universal planning...? :)
I think I got your idea. Let's see how things develop.

I see slip cover. Nothing more.

http://images.dailytech.com/nimage/7074_original.jpg

I know it's just a promotional design, but...
it looks like it's the size of a standard DVD amaray case.

what is Universal planning...? :)

I would hope that if they ever did release a single SKU combo they would not gimp it like this.

The American Gangster (Feb. 19th) cover art is out. It looks pretty boring imo.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/basicair/2224425466/


I can't wait for some great custom covers for this release.

Is it coming in a normal DVD size case or is that a slipcover?

Do you have any idea how long the cover art has been out? We even have discussions about it in another American Gangster thread. ;)

I was never implying that it was just released or anything like that.

And I never saw a discussion on the cover art for this title despite the fact I visit this forum everyday.

I was never implying that it was just released or anything like that.

And I never saw a discussion on the cover art for this title despite the fact I visit this forum everyday.

Well seeing as how your thread was just merged with another discussing the very same thing I'd say you were wrong. ;)

For those that are complaining about no TrueHD, I'd love to watch you embarrass yourselves in a blind test with TrueHD and DD+.

Must be trolls or something, I just don't understand not buying a movie cause it only has DD+. Ah well.


/rant

Is it coming in a normal DVD size case or is that a slipcover?

I'm still wondering :confused:

2 seperate discs maybe

I disagree. Hence, my wait for an unrated Blu-ray version of Live Free or Die Hard.

Taking out the swearing in a Die Hard movie is like taking out Harrison Fords' hat in an Indiana Jones movie.

LOL Awesome. Yeah I too bought the Steelbook unrated DVD over The Blu-Ray version. Also Didn't buy Man On Fire since it was a barebones release.
I agree that the specs for America Gangster are weak but I really want to watch this film and I don't want to settle for SD so I put in my order at amazon, I also got my 10% off so it came to 24.25, anybody else still getting the 10% off?

I also got my 10% off so it came to 24.25, anybody else still getting the 10% off?

I am. :D

Just pre-ordered mine at Amazon along with Bonnie & Clyde.

Sweet... :)

What might make things worse in some people's mind is that the HD DVD only contains the theatrical version; the DVD side has the unrated.

WHAT??? Uhh, first Fox (DH4), then Disney (CT), and now even Universal is letting me down. Lack of longer version on HD side means NO BUY for me...:mad:

Universal, do what Paramount did with Zodiac and go back to the drawing board!!!

Sure they do but is there ANY players that can even decode it? The ONLY lossless they've EVER used was DTS-MA ... they might as well not even put it there in the first place seeing as though not ONE player can decode it lol


have you been living under a rock?

Well you would be suprised if you think adding just of couple of bad words gonna make Die Hard 4 feel more like a Die hard movie.

They changed the movie a little to much for that.


no surprise here after comparing the Jap release and the US release


I'm off to Amazon to cancel this crapfest disk.

Universal must want HD DVD to die now as well.

I put in my order at amazon, I also got my 10% off so it came to 24.25, anybody else still getting the 10% off?
I am. :D
Who did you guys know at Amazon? I've seriously cut back on my spending at Amazon since the 10% discount went away. It's not much, but sometimes that 10% would tip me over to many an impulse buy. They are losing a ton of sales from me.

Who did you guys know at Amazon? I've seriously cut back on my spending at Amazon since the 10% discount went away. It's not much, but sometimes that 10% would tip me over to many an impulse buy. They are losing a ton of sales from me.

I wish I had your resolve. I tried to cut back, but recently I've been buying even more. I hope we get another discount or at least some nice BOGOs soon. There are some Fox titles I've held off buying.

SWEET, just got my copy in today. Some of you may be satisfied in the fact that it does have the extended version on the sd flip side. I still wish that it was a 2-disc with both in HD but I was presently surprised to see that it does indeed have both versions at least.

Is it coming in a normal DVD size case or is that a slipcover?

It's a standard Universal clasp case with a slipcover, similar to 40 Year Old Virgin but without the disappearing chesthair.

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. WTF is wrong with UNIVERSAL ?

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13055498#post13055498

Thanks House for saving my hard earned $$$.

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. WTF is wrong with UNIVERSAL ?

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13055498#post13055498

Thanks House for saving my hard earned $$$.

You better watch out with those comments. The HD fanboys will accuse you of having an agenda and a Blu bias. I criticized Kingdom's sound (no lossless) and I got the "treatment".

Thanks for the heads up. I'll rent this but won't purchase.

The fanboys can keep accusing me of having a Blu bias but that didn't prevent me from ordering Stardust, Seabiscuit and Sahara from the recent amazon 50% OFF sale.

Back to the topic, it looks like UNIVERSAL has screwed up such a big flick.

The HD DVD looks quite a bit better than the DVD. If this is director's intent (which I believe it is) then I'm all for it. It doesn't have to always be sharp as a tack. I want it how it's suppose to look (unless it's suppose to look like Traffic lol).

The fanboys can keep accusing me of having a Blu bias but that didn't prevent me from ordering Stardust, Seabiscuit and Sahara from the recent amazon 50% OFF sale.

Back to the topic, it looks like UNIVERSAL has screwed up such a big flick.

I would agree in that this is the version that should have gotten the special edition treatment. But PQ wise I don't think it's lacking, I wouldn't rush to judgement on a few screen caps, if indeed thats what they are. Looks and sounds great as far as I'm concerned and certainly beats a trip to the theater.:)

The HD version clearly has less artifacts, but unfortunately I don't think it will convince many people to upgrade to HDM.

Now I see Universal's strategy at work; HD DVD owners get both the theatrical and extended cuts, both with the same video quality so people aren't REALLY missing out on an extended version in HD (joking.. sort of.)

It's a standard Universal clasp case with a slipcover, similar to 40 Year Old Virgin but without the disappearing chesthair.

I never owned 40 Year Old Virgin. Is this in a DVD size case or a normal HD-DVD red case?

I never owned 40 Year Old Virgin. Is this in a DVD size case or a normal HD-DVD red case?

If it is like the 40 year old virgin, then it would be in a standard red hd dvd case with a slip cover over it...

My copy arrived this morning. The cover is just a slipcase like we got for Transformers but this one's cardboard, not plastic. I plan on giving this a spin later today. Seeing this theatrically, Am. Gangster was kind of flat looking...I'm sure that's the intended look. The HD hopefully will resemble that.

Anyone know the running time difference between the unrated version and theatrical?

19 minutes

I saw this in theater the day it came out. I thought it was a very good movie. I will be getting this on HD-DVD. Should be good again

Any reviews of this HD DVD out yet? I haven't found any.

Another reviews of this HD DVD out yet? I haven't found any.

As far as PQ don't expect Hot Fuzz.It is pretty soft.I never saw this in the theatre,but from what I read it was the same way there.I do seem to remember the HD trailer looking sharp though :confused: I guess the trailer was tweaked.

Posts promoting piracy have been removed.

Anyone have problems when web connected.

Keeps coming up with the 408bc00d error.
Has this happened with other titles?

We had to delete add-on memory as well for it to work on 360.

Anyone have problems when web connected.

Keeps coming up with the 408bc00d error.
Has this happened with other titles?

We had to delete add-on memory as well for it to work on 360.

I had no problems with it, I was actually surprised that it was available before the release date.

Well the first official review is up

http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/1292/americangangster.html

And it looks like Universal really doesn't care anymore. First the Extended Cut is only on the SD side of the disc. Just the Theatrical Cut is HD. Second no TrueHD track. And last only a portion of the supplimental materials from the 2 Disc DVD have made it over. What a complete utter waste. Are they trying to take a lesson from Fox.

Well the first official review is up

http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/1292/americangangster.html

And it looks like Universal really doesn't care anymore. First the Extended Cut is only on the SD side of the disc. Just the Theatrical Cut is HD. Second no TrueHD track. And last only a portion of the supplimental materials from the 2 Disc DVD have made it over. What a complete utter waste. Are they trying to take a lesson from Fox.

Yep, looks like a few major supplimental features are missing.... Ridley Scott movies usually have great documentaries on them too! I think this is a rare case in which I will just get the SD-DVD and pass on HD until it is double dipped, or just get the HD from any future BOGOs later on.

Just wanted to point in.

Ridley Scott is a director who have the final say in his cuts, so what you see on the HD side is the directors cut. The extended cut is just an extended cut. Scenes that were excluded for a reason.

So im glad its the directors cut on HD side, and the extended cut just comes along as a bonus.

Just wanted to point in.

Ridley Scott is a director who have the final say in his cuts, so what you see on the HD side is the directors cut. The extended cut is just an extended cut. Scenes that were excluded for a reason.

So im glad its the directors cut on HD side, and the extended cut just comes along as a bonus.

Ahemmm..., Kingdom of Heaven, Ahemmm...

The "theatrical version" (=directors cut per your definition) is almost unwatchable IMHO, the directors cut (=just extended version per your definition) is one of my favourite movies.

Ahemmm..., Blade Runner, Ahemmm...

(Ridley doesn't even like the original theatrical cut very much per his own statements...)


....

Im not talking about older Ridley movies, he has a little more to say theese days. He didnt have the final say in Blade runner.

And I dont think everything is better with KOH in extended version, the final battle between Balian and The King felt really cheasy. More isnt always better.

You can look what Ridley says about the extended edition of Gladiator, you can see that the theatrical cut was the directors cut. The extended edition gave you more scenes, but i didnt do much more for the story or the characters.

Extended editions have become a way for studios to sell same stuff twice. Or if the movie have gone poorly at the theaters they market the movie with additional 15minutes. Its not about making the movie better, its just marketing (and it works)

Im not talking about older Ridley movies, he has a little more to say theese days. He didnt have the final say in Blade runner.

And I dont think everything is better with KOH in extended version, the final battle between Balian and The King felt really cheasy. More isnt always better.

You can look what Ridley says about the extended edition of Gladiator, you can see that the theatrical cut was the directors cut. The extended edition gave you more scenes, but i didnt do much more for the story or the characters.

Extended editions have become a way for studios to sell same stuff twice. Or if the movie have gone poorly at the theaters they market the movie with additional 15minutes. Its not about making the movie better, its just marketing (and it works)

In general I certainly agree with you.

It is just that Ridley IMHO isn't a good example for it due the KOH (which, IMHO, is an outstanding movie in its "extended" version - the child-lebra subplot alone is worth the money..)

Most of the times - yes - "extended versions" are mere marketing instruments IF they aren't the prefered cut of the director (=> ergo "cuts were made for a reason"). But there are exceptions, noteworthy exceptions...

Ahemmm... LOTR :p

I haven't seen the extended American Gangster so I cannot comment on it. BUT giving customers a choice what to watch in order to allow them to decide for themselves which cut they prefer is ALWAYS the right thing to do. Given that you have plenty of disc space and bandwidth (dynamic branching) to your disposal - which shouldn't be an issue for Universal soon enough :p

we shouldn`t forget that his director`s cut of ALIEN is not really the director`s cut, he agreed to put a differently edited version and for fox to market it as a director`s cut for marketing reasons only.

High Def Digest (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/1292/americangangster.html) gives the PQ a solid 4/5. Audio was average:

That said, this 1080p/VC-1 encode (framed at 1.78:1, slightly opened up versus the 1.85:1 theatrical aspect ratio) is very nice in its own right. Befitting a new release, the source is clean as a whistle. Ridley Scott eschewed the more glossy look of some of his '80s and '90s pictures for 'American Gangster,' but this is still a slick enough image that you won't mistake it for Steven Soderbergh's 'Traffic.' Colors are not overly saturated and are far from bright, but the muted brown-and-blue palette is clean and smooth. Scott also utilizes a softer look for the film, so while certainly sharp, there is a bit more flatness than some might expect on a high-def presentation.

TheLion

I would admit that I have mixed fellings about KOH.

The extended improves somewhat, but makes it worse aswell. And thats how i feel about LOTR also. Some improvments and some for worse (End scene with Boromir is worse in the EE)

I think Aliens is a perfect example when the EE actually take away suspense. Sure fans like me have already watched it 59 times so there is no more suspense, but for a 1st time viewer Theatrical is what is recommended.

About American gangster, i think the most important thing is that the directors cut is the one that is in the mix. More editions is a bonus but not a dealbreaker for me.

I think Aliens is a perfect example when the EE actually take away suspense.

I hate the SE of Aliens, and T2 (probably in the minority on that one...)

On the other hand, the LOTR EE's are the only acceptable versions. :)

I hate the SE of Aliens, and T2 (probably in the minority on that one...)

On the other hand, the LOTR EE's are the only acceptable versions. :)

The SE of Aliens was good dude....

One of the best I've seen was Daredevil, totally different movie and was better....

High Def Digest (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/1292/americangangster.html) gives the PQ a solid 4/5. Audio was average:

Yes this is one of his reviews I have a hard time agreeing with. He gave it fairly low score for the intent of the film. The one thing that I definitely am unsure about is in his review he states there was no specific American Gangster related material in the Web enabled features yet there was when I watched this on Friday.:confused:

I hate the SE of Aliens, and T2 (probably in the minority on that one...)

On the other hand, the LOTR EE's are the only acceptable versions. :)

Hate i a strong word, I love the extended scenes, the problem is that the movie is better without them.

As for T2, James Cameron said that the extended cut is good to see what they choose not to include, but its not the version he considers the best one.

So at least its you, me and Jim that likes the theatrical cut better. ;)


The Abyss on the other hand was cut to much in the theatrical version. Do you know for how many years i was bothered by that the body count didnt make up. Also I think Coffeys character made much more sense in the EE.

Agreed on The Abyss! At least that's one James Cameron film that truly benefits from additional scenes.

I take it back... I don't hate the SE of Aliens or T2... I just don't find any value in the extended scenes. Maybe they're better on their own, but I've never watched them that way.

Ahemmm..., Kingdom of Heaven, Ahemmm...

The "theatrical version" (=directors cut per your definition) is almost unwatchable IMHO, the directors cut (=just extended version per your definition) is one of my favourite movies.

Ahemmm..., Blade Runner, Ahemmm...

(Ridley doesn't even like the original theatrical cut very much per his own statements...)


....

The Kingdom of Heaven extended cut is called a Director's Cut. The extended cut of American Gangster is simply labeled an Extended Cut. Scott's commentary is on the theatrical cut only. I think it's pretty clear which version he prefers in this case.

Hate i a strong word, I love the extended scenes, the problem is that the movie is better without them.

As for T2, James Cameron said that the extended cut is good to see what they choose not to include, but its not the version he considers the best one.

So at least its you, me and Jim that likes the theatrical cut better. ;)


The Abyss on the other hand was cut to much in the theatrical version. Do you know for how many years i was bothered by that the body count didnt make up. Also I think Coffeys character made much more sense in the EE.
I have one issue with the T2 Director's Cut...

According to this version of the movie, the T-101 does not really go out of his way to "learn" unless his chip is removed and switched to that mode. I kinda like this idea in some ways, as it explains why he was able to learn "why people cry" or whatever.

However, earlier in the movie, when John Connor tells him that he cannot kill people, the T-101 responds "why?" as if he wants to learn the reason. This is somewhat of a contradiction when the movie is extended. In the theatrical cut, it fits perfectly.

Other than that, I still prefer the extended cut.

As for American Gangster, I would have preferred seamless branching on the HD-DVD side. I've seen the theatrical, and I want to see the extended. If I decide I like one over the other, I could have my choice. However, the issue with the special features breaks the entire deal for me, as Ridley's DVD's always have great documentaries, and the HD-DVD does not have it, while the SD-DVD does.

oh-riginal

Thats the first rule of filmmaking never let logic destroy a great scene. Its scenes like that, that make the movie stand out, when the boy must explain to the gun what moral is.

But it also makes more sense to have the terminator from the beginning able to imitate, seems a bit lame to have some type of switch for it.

Yeah, look's like universal is giving up on its "hd-dvd supporters". They have a top-tier movie to work with and they botch it for the hd-dvd release. I am glad I didn't pay $30 for this. Just stick to the standard release, at least you get the extended cut.

Xombi doesnt you get the extended cut on the combo aswell?

I wouldnt say keeping the directors cut on the HD side as butchering.


I really hope the studios cut it with this EE crap they have been pulling lately...

Anyone know what is happening with the UK release?

It's not a combo only hd-dvd but everything seems to point that both cuts are on the disc.

Anyone else had problems playing this disc? When it arrived in the post the other day I popped it in my HD-EP30 to test it. At first I couldn't get mine to load on my HD-EP30, but cleaning it several times using the boiling technique solved that. When my wife and I finally went to watch it last night it froze about 6 times during the movie necessitating player reboots, so we watched the end of the film on the SD-DVD side! I NEVER had problems like this with my old HD-A1 but I made the silly mistake of upgrading to an EP30 in the hope that 1080/24 would work with my new Optoma HD80 - well it doesn't, even with the latest firmware 2.0. I'm not a happy bunny!

Just stick to the standard release, at least you get the extended cut.

1. You also get get the standard edition (complete with the extended version) with the HD DVD since it's a combo!

2. Has anyone seen the extended cut already? Is it any good? Is it Scott's prefered version? I never read anything about it beeing a Director's cut!

There are no advertisements at all on TV regarding "American Gangster" HD DVD, all the shows that I have been watching all week have advertised the 2 disc DVD special edition only to be released Feb 19th. I believe this is the ultimate sign that we may see Toshiba offically drop the HD DVD format soon.

A shame, because the supporters of the format were definetely better than what Sony was offering, but unfortunately Sony learned its lesson from the failure of the 1980's, its all about the library and the marketing.

daniels1994,
Every single ad I've seen advertises it as available on DVD and Combo HD DVD. Even my local Walmart has signs that advertise both. I think you're watching the wrong channels. ;)

The sleeve for this HD-DVD combo disc advertises an alternate opening + deleted scenes for the SD DVD side, neither of which appear to be on my disc, anyone else had the same problem ?

There are no advertisements at all on TV regarding "American Gangster" HD DVD, all the shows that I have been watching all week have advertised the 2 disc DVD special edition only to be released Feb 19th. I believe this is the ultimate sign that we may see Toshiba offically drop the HD DVD format soon.

A shame, because the supporters of the format were definetely better than what Sony was offering, but unfortunately Sony learned its lesson from the failure of the 1980's, its all about the library and the marketing.

not true.

I've seen plenty of ads for both the DVD and HD DVD versions, mainly on USA Network but other channels as well.

1. You also get get the standard edition (complete with the extended version) with the HD DVD since it's a combo!

2. Has anyone seen the extended cut already? Is it any good? Is it Scott's prefered version? I never read anything about it beeing a Director's cut!



My point was that universal opted not to give us the "extended" cut in hd. I think that is lazy and cheap. Universal will no longer recieve my money.

I think we can ALL agree that this should have been a 2 HD-DVD collector's version i.e. Transformers.While i will be picking up the HD-DVD.(If Universal wanted to cheap out that bad, they should have at least made this a double sided flipper, with 30gigs on both sides, and included the extended cut and some of the rst of the extras on what would have been the DVD side).I also don't understand why they didn't include the soundtrack in TrueHD when virtually EVERY other Universal release includes a True HD soundtrack.

The only thing i can figure out is that Universal plans a double dip sometime in the near future but considering they have also released 2 and 3 disc DVD versions that include a plethora of extra content not even found on the HD-DVD version, i think the dd idea is shot to hell.

At least we got the extended cut on the DVD side, i guess.

Case in point is that Universal HAS GOT TO STOP releasing EVERY new release in Combo format.Not only is it effecting the quality of their new releases but it's driving away customers.Paramount is outdoing Universal 100x over in a game they used to be king at.American Gangster's package and review SHOULD have been every bit as good if not better than those of Paramount's upcoming 2 HD-DVD Beowulf Director's cut, but unfortunately it isn't.I imagine for the same price as the AG HD-DVD those really into the film will opt for the 3 dvd Ultra edition that they can pop into the HD-DVD player and see upconverted and still get to see all the extra goodies.

Could this be the last official BIG title release for HD DVD? Could it somehow save it?

Could this be the last official BIG title release for HD DVD? Could it somehow save it?

Yes. No.

Yes. No.

I am thinking I am Legend will be the last Big release, but who knows maybe it gets dropped at this point.

I am thinking I am Legend will be the last Big release, but who knows maybe it gets dropped at this point.

or Beowulf/Bee Movie

I for one am not a huge fan of extended cuts. Alot of times it drags out the movie. Case in point the Lord of the Rings. Those movies are long to begin with now even longer. Sure they enhance the story but bog down the movie.
So not having the extended version in Hi def on American Gangster is not a huge deal for me.

My review is now up at HTF:
http://www.hometheaterforum.com/htf/ht-software-high-definition/269231-htf-hd-dvd-review-american-gangster-combo.html#post3328152

Sam

There are no advertisements at all on TV regarding "American Gangster" HD DVD, all the shows that I have been watching all week have advertised the 2 disc DVD special edition only to be released Feb 19th. I believe this is the ultimate sign that we may see Toshiba offically drop the HD DVD format soon.

A shame, because the supporters of the format were definetely better than what Sony was offering, but unfortunately Sony learned its lesson from the failure of the 1980's, its all about the library and the marketing.

In the market where I live ads approximately thru the Super Bowl referenced both the regular SE and HD DVD versions. For the past couple of week I have only seen ads for the 2-disc standard DVD. Most watching is on the local ABC affiliate.

I'm skipping the HD DVD version and go for the Special 3 Disc DVD Edition instead.

So how long until we're gonna see this in blu? Feels somewhat pointless to buy it tomorrow on hd dvd, but might as well considering it's going to look much better than the sd dvd version of it...

was just notified by amazon that american gangster has shipped.

Netflix is showing American Gangster as "short wait" (can anyone confirm receiving it?) so you might be able to refuse the shipment if you really don't want it.

I've cancelled my order twice and re-ordered :eek: so hopefully the studios will make my mind up for me. Beowulf and Bee Movie were the only other discs I expected to buy, anyway.

What's one more disc on the pile?:o

This one should be available in light of this mornings announcement.

I think I will buy this one anyways. I was looking forward to Beowulf and Into the Wild here in the next couple of weeks. Wonder how it is going to work out...

Just cancelled my Amazon order.

I cannot spend the money for a dead format. Did that with Beta and Laser Disc.

I'll keep the discs I got and wait to see what 's next.
Too bad I wanted this one too.

I'll just rent it for now.

So how long until we're gonna see this in blu? Feels somewhat pointless to buy it tomorrow on hd dvd, but might as well considering it's going to look much better than the sd dvd version of it...

eh, I'm buying it. I have 139 HD DVDs....1 more isn't going to make a difference.

So how long until we're gonna see this in blu? Feels somewhat pointless to buy it tomorrow on hd dvd, but might as well considering it's going to look much better than the sd dvd version of it...

I don't understand this mentality at all. Buy it now or wait several months and get it later? Maybe if you only have 20 or less HD DVD's, then I can see selling and going Blu only. I personally have over 100 HD DVD's, so I'll be adding a 2nd player and buying up discs at a discount. :)

^^^ agreed. I just picked up this title today and look forward to picking up Beowolf next week. I think I'm at around 100 HD DVD titles, so picking up a couple more before going BD on Warner, Universal and Paramount seems like a no brainer to me.

What a joke. The HD version is only the theatrical and not the extended, which is only on he standard dvd side. This is a slap in the face to fans of this movie, who won't be able to watch the director's cut in HD! I sure hope that the eventual Blu Ray release rectifies this.

Suprisingly got mine from Netflix today. Haven't watched it yet, waiting to watch it tomorrow with friends. Just did a quick PQ check however. This is probably the worst PQ I've seen in an HD DVD yet. Thank god I didn't buy it. :(

I saw that as well. "The DC is on the DVD side what? that's odd.

The DC should have been HD. Have the regular version on DVD or use seemless branching for both. Or have 2 HD-DVDs

Netflix is showing American Gangster as "short wait" (can anyone confirm receiving it?) so you might be able to refuse the shipment if you really don't want it.

I've cancelled my order twice and re-ordered :eek: so hopefully the studios will make my mind up for me. Beowulf and Bee Movie were the only other discs I expected to buy, anyway.

What's one more disc on the pile?:o

According to Netflix, my HD-DVD rental of Gangster is at the house today!

Anyone have problems when web connected.

Keeps coming up with the 408bc00d error.
Just picked up this title today and I'm getting the same error with my A35 when I hit "Cancel" on that initial downloading screen. I never had this issue with other titles like Bourne Ultimatum, etc when I did the same thing.

Finally gave up and decided to flip it and play the SD side. The picture quality blows on the SD side. The irony as this is likely the very last Universal HD DVD I'll purchase. What a waste of $29.99...

So if I want to see the unrated cut I need to flip my HD DVD to the SD side??

How much time exactly does this unrated cut add to the standard theatrical release? I mean are we talking like kingdom of heaven or troy level additional footage, or just a bonus 5 minutes, a few scenes here or there..?

This one should be available in light of this mornings announcement.

I think I will buy this one anyways. I was looking forward to Beowulf and Into the Wild here in the next couple of weeks. Wonder how it is going to work out...

To quote my own post.

I picked up American Gangster at Wally World this evening. I think I will buy Beowulf and Into the Wild here in the next couple of weeks, but that will be about it.

Plus, there is going to be a pretty good March (IMO) for Blu-Ray's that I want to pick up.

Anyone else had problems playing this disc? When it arrived in the post the other day I popped it in my HD-EP30 to test it. At first I couldn't get mine to load on my HD-EP30, but cleaning it several times using the boiling technique solved that. When my wife and I finally went to watch it last night it froze about 6 times during the movie necessitating player reboots, so we watched the end of the film on the SD-DVD side! I NEVER had problems like this with my old HD-A1 but I made the silly mistake of upgrading to an EP30 in the hope that 1080/24 would work with my new Optoma HD80 - well it doesn't, even with the latest firmware 2.0. I'm not a happy bunny!

mine took an eternity to load. first it said "No Disk" i then tried again and it took forever for the Universal Logo to appear then a long pause and finally the menu. this is unacceptable. movies have always been a hit or miss with the 3rd generation player. they play fine one day then freeze up like crazy the next. i don't get it.

Rented it today, pretty good movie. Had a ridiculous 3 second or so pause time when it switched layers, and one little skip at the end, but nothing really to complain much about.

Most likely the last "new" HD-DVD I will ever watch.

Does it come in a plastic case like all other HD DVD's or a cardboard one? From pictures on the net I can't tell.

Thanks,
Tom

Does it come in a plastic case like all other HD DVD's or a cardboard one? From pictures on the net I can't tell.

Thanks,
Tom

From what I know, it is the regular case with a slipcover (like 40 year old virgin)

mine took an eternity to load. first it said "No Disk" i then tried again and it took forever for the Universal Logo to appear then a long pause and finally the menu. this is unacceptable. movies have always been a hit or miss with the 3rd generation player. they play fine one day then freeze up like crazy the next. i don't get it.

I know what you mean. I bought Elizabeth the Golden Age and one day put the disc in to show my wife. It booted up no problem and went to the menu screen. We didn't try to watch the movie until a couple of days later at which point it steadfastly refused to play it, despite being rebooted several times! So we watched Bladerunner (not a combo) without issue. At the end of Bladerunner I thought I'd give Elizabeth another go and it loaded first time! Crazy!

Just picked up this title today and I'm getting the same error with my A35 when I hit "Cancel" on that initial downloading screen. I never had this issue with other titles like Bourne Ultimatum, etc when I did the same thing.

Finally gave up and decided to flip it and play the SD side. The picture quality blows on the SD side. The irony as this is likely the very last Universal HD DVD I'll purchase. What a waste of $29.99...

I'm getting the same error too when canceling on that loading screen. My A1 has never let me down till tonight and I had it since launch.

So what to do?

How much time exactly does this unrated cut add to the standard theatrical release? I mean are we talking like kingdom of heaven or troy level additional footage, or just a bonus 5 minutes, a few scenes here or there..?

Since it's not even called "Director's cut" I guess it will be more along the lines of Gladiator EE or Black Hawk Down EE.

Ah I just unplugged the ethernet now it loads.

From what I know, it is the regular case with a slipcover (like 40 year old virgin)


Thanks:)

Tom

Since it's not even called "Director's cut" I guess it will be more along the lines of Gladiator EE or Black Hawk Down EE.

Actually it is 18 minutes of extra footage, with an alternate ending if you choose. (all in SD on the flip side)

The theatric release is in HD and that is what I watched last night.
The movie was GREAT!

Can anyone report some info on the PQ?

Can anyone report some info on the PQ?

Hidef digest rated PQ as 4 out of 5 and AQ at 3 out of 5

Huh? That's complete BS. I own more HD DVD's than Blu-Rays (approximately 100 vs. 50), and favor HD DVD strongly over Blu-Ray.

How am I a troll if the HD DVD has:

1. No lossless audio
2. No unrated cut
3. No booklet like the DVD (that I know of, this may be included)
4. Multiple features missing from the DVD.

Spin it however you want to by blaming it on Blu-Ray, but this release is an utter disappointment compared to the 3 disc DVD. I really don't see how you can argue with the 4 points I posted above. If these 4 points were added, this would be THE release of the first quarter, IMO. I still plan on buying it anyway, but I may wait now to find it on a BOGO or something. The specs really dampered this release for me personally.

While i agree that the 2 DISC DVD set is very nice, the third disc in the 3 disc set is COMPLETELY worse passing by(unless your a lover and liver of "hip-hop").Sure there's a few features missing from the HD-DVD and it should have been a 2 HD-DVD set, we have what we have and it actually could have been worse.I ended up paying $23.98 for mine(the 2 disc dvd set was going for $15.98 and the 3 disc version $27.98)and after watching both versions,i
feel the movie was good but Universal's execution was all wrong.Seems to me the disc was rushed.Had the paultry few extra features been dropped and the skimpy IME a lossless track as well as the extra 18 minutes could have been put on the HD side likely with no problem at all.

Hidef digest rated PQ as 4 out of 5 and AQ at 3 out of 5

I'd agree with those ratings. Maybe even a 3.5 for PQ. Compared to a lot of other HD-DVD's, it looks more like an upconverted SD-DVD. Not bad PQ by any means, but not as good when comparing it to other HD-DVD's.

I was disappointed with the PQ on the HD-DVD. Very limited contrast, muddy dark areas and overall not an impressive presentation. This is likely the director's intent and not a problem with the master, but I did not care for it. Disc played flawlessly on my XA2.

I just added this to the "Sales" thread, but Visions here in western Canada will have this on sale starting Thursday for $22.88. There were flyers in today's papers for those who want to try PMs.

Not suprised some people are getting their first taste of combo problems. Its bound to happen to everybody at some point.

Thankfully we don't have to worry about combo's anymore due to the demise of HD DVD.

I will not be getting this movie it is highly overrated. Denzel and Crowe have like no screen time together, and the story just isn't that great to me. Rather go watch gladiator or training day. I can see why this movie didnt do well in the movies.

I will not be getting this movie it is highly overrated. Denzel and Crowe have like no screen time together, and the story just isn't that great to me. Rather go watch gladiator or training day. I can see why this movie didnt do well in the movies.

It only had the biggest opening weekend of an R rated movie ever.....

Mediocre movie..PQ is soft, looks like that was the directors intent with a muted 60's and 70's retro brown palette ...I watched it back to back with 'Last Starfighter' and was amazed how good a 25 year old movie looked in comparison.

I will not be getting this movie it is highly overrated. Denzel and Crowe have like no screen time together, and the story just isn't that great to me. Rather go watch gladiator or training day. I can see why this movie didnt do well in the movies.


It made $260 million worldwide.

$130 million in US and $130 million worldwide.

What are you talking about?:confused:

http://www.boxofficemojo.com/movies/?id=americangangster.htm

Am I the only purchaser to wonder where the deleted scenes referred to on the sleeve are plus the alternate opening scene ? One of the last new HD-DVD (blessed be thy name) releases we'll be able to buy and we get gipped on the extras !

Am I the only purchaser to wonder where the deleted scenes referred to on the sleeve are plus the alternate opening scene ? One of the last new HD-DVD (blessed be thy name) releases we'll be able to buy and we get gipped on the extras !

They are on the SD side.

I will not be getting this movie it is highly overrated. Denzel and Crowe have like no screen time together, and the story just isn't that great to me. Rather go watch gladiator or training day. I can see why this movie didnt do well in the movies.

Crazy ^

am i correct in stating that you cannot get this movie from netflix, but you can rent in from blockbuster.

i probably don't want to buy the new releases but do want to rent them if anyone still rents hd dvd movies.

They are on the SD side.

Not on my copy unless they're arrived at via an easter egg or some such option.

I will not be getting this movie it is highly overrated. Denzel and Crowe have like no screen time together, and the story just isn't that great to me. Rather go watch gladiator or training day. I can see why this movie didnt do well in the movies.

What crack are you smoking? The movie was a worldwide success!

am i correct in stating that you cannot get this movie from netflix, but you can rent in from blockbuster.

i probably don't want to buy the new releases but do want to rent them if anyone still rents hd dvd movies.

got mine from netflix

I can see why this movie didnt do well in the movies.

Uh, the movie grossed $260 million worldwide.

I just got mine via Netflix and plan to watch tonight. We will be watching the HD version, but wondering if anyone saw the extended SD version? Is it worth watching? Are the 18 extra minutes just towards the end or a little bit here and there, so you basically have to watch the entire movie again?

I already played it the other night to make sure no issues since it is a combo and I didn't watch it but looks like it played all the way through so I'm good to go.

jcg

I second the question regarding the UK release. If you look at Amazon UK, they have a single disc HD DVD (not a combo either) that purports to have the regular and extended versions on one disc in HD. It seems like there should be space there to do it if they do a branched version so common chapters are not duplicated.

I am holding off purchasing this one until I found out if the UK release could possibly be a better deal.

Not sure why I skipped this considering Denzel Washingston is my favorite Actor. :insec: :lol:


I'm watching the DVD (rental) right now and can't believe I skipped it, Denzel is amazing and I can't believe The Academy ignored this/him! :angry: :angry:

I just placed the UK HD DVD (SS-DL) in my amazon.co.uk cart.

Watched it last night. After the bad review High Def Digest gave I wasn't expecting much. Lucky for me they were completely WRONG. I enjoyed the movie very much. The movie flew by and their was great acting all around. Disc quality could be better. It started out pretty drap. But I had the feeling that along the way the image was getting better. It never really shines though. But maybe it was meant this way. Sound was more than fine. Some good music and the gunshots really arrived in my livingroom. So don't let the bad review fool you. I must admit that it's a bit lame the extended cut is on the dvd side of the combo. But for the rest it's an easy recommendation.

I bought the SD DVD version for $13.99 at CC and played it on my XA2 fantastic picture sound was ok other wise great movie.

Watched it last night with some friends and it's a good movie in my opinion, but not great. I watched the HD theatrical version, and thought the movie was way too long. It could have easily been edited down to ~2 hrs, so I can't even imagine wanting to watch the extended version. So anyways if anyone did watch the extended version (I already put mine back in the mail) and wants to PM me with what the additonal stuff covered that would be great. Or just post here, with an initial comment not to read if you haven't seen the movie yet. Oh and HD pic quality was just OK as I've definately seen much better.

jcg

I just got mine via Netflix and plan to watch tonight. We will be watching the HD version, but wondering if anyone saw the extended SD version? Is it worth watching? Are the 18 extra minutes just towards the end or a little bit here and there, so you basically have to watch the entire movie again?

I already played it the other night to make sure no issues since it is a combo and I didn't watch it but looks like it played all the way through so I'm good to go.

jcg

just finished watching this and didnt think it was that good and was actually kind of boring...we own the night was much better

I just finished the HD DVD of this film. Simply a great movie and I can honestly say I think it's a perfect 10 in terms of entertainment value.

I thought the picture quality was great. As everyone knows, Ridley Scott intended on the soft picture for more of a dated feel to how the movie appeared. Even with that being the case, however, the picture looked excellent. It's not reference material, and it couldn't ever be considering how it was shot, but it didn't really let me down at all.

The only complaint I have is a couple very short 10-second or so shots had a lot of noise/static in the picture. But nearly every movie has a couple, if not a ton, of shots like that that show up in an HD DVD or Blu-ray release. So that's no big deal at all to me.

The audio wasn't what many audiophiles expected but I was still pleased. I have a 5 year old 5.1 setup capable of DTS and DD5.1 only. I have my 360 addon set to process the DD5.1 track into DTS and I was pleased.



Here's my breakdown:

Video: 9/10
(considering how it was shot)

Audio: 7.5/10
(even though I can't listen to HD audio tracks, they should still be on every HD disc release and especially on a big title like this)

Film: 10/10
(for the record, I only consider maybe a dozen or so movies perfect 10's in terms of entertainment value)



My setup:

56" Samsung DLP 1080p set
Xbox 360 Elite HD DVD addon via HDMI
Optical digital audio to Denon 5.1 receiver



*** I recommend every HD DVD fan pick up this title. Even though HD DVD is now 'dead' I would doubt Universal will have this out on Blu-ray anytime soon. If you have a Sam's Club in town like I do, you can pick up the HD DVD version for about $26 like I did, too. :)

This was a very good movie, but I was not too impressed with the HD picture quality. I would have to give picture quality a 3/5. I turned it over to the DVD side to see if there is a major difference, but there wasn't. On every movie I can tell a mass difference of HD quality versus standard quality, but not so much on this release. I understand the movie may of had an "older" feel since it took place in the 70's, but they could have did at least a slightly better job for picture quality on this disc. The standard DVD will do fine for me. Upconversion was pretty good when I flipped the disc over. Besides, it has the extended cut anyway.

Decent movie, but were the first 20 minutes or so ultra dark for anyone else? I could barely see what was going on even during daytime scenes.

I don't know what look Ridley Scott was going for, but it didn't work (imo)

I agree with one of the other posters that crowe and denzel needed more screen time together.

It's not just really dark, but the black levels in this release are pretty bad, in my opinion. I have no idea if I am commenting on the film or the HD DVD, however. I didn't see this in the theater. Still, outdoor day shots look great. And I thoroughly enjoyed the movie.

It's not just really dark, but the black levels in this release are pretty bad, in my opinion. I have no idea if I am commenting on the film or the HD DVD, however. I didn't see this in the theater. Still, outdoor day shots look great. And I thoroughly enjoyed the movie.

My wife and I just finished watching this film. As far as PQ, drab would describe it. I didn't see it in the theater, but much of the film seemed to be overly lacking in detail due to the low contrast and black levels. I got used to it after an hour, but I made me strain at times to make out the details in some scenes.

Ron

PS: An interesting co-feature would be the recently released doc on Nicky Barnes, called Mr Untouchable. One of the extras is a taped conversation between the real Frank Lucas and Nicky filmed recently while making the doc. I guess Nicky was pretty pissed how he was protrayed in American Gangster, which caused him to agree to do the doc (he got a hold of an early script for American Gangster-gotta love hollywood). BTW, Nicky is in witness protection program

Waiting for mine in the mail.

PS: An interesting co-feature would be the recently released doc on Nicky Gaines, called Mr Untouchable. One of the extras is a taped conversation between the real Frank Lucas and Nicky filmed recently while making the doc. I guess Nicky was pretty pissed how he was protrayed in American Gangster, which caused him to agree to do the doc (he got a hold of an early script for American Gangster-gotta love hollywood). BTW, Nicky is in witness protection program

Even better would be The History Channel show Gangland. They did a full hour show on Frank Lucas and Leroy "Nicky" Barnes that includes interviews.

http://video.google.com/videosearch?q=Gangland+American+Gangster&sitesearch=

My copy of American Gangster should be in on Tuesday.

Just rented it from BlockBuster, halfway through watching it, the movie has been entertaining and the PQ/AQ is also pretty good.

I enjoyed the movie. I thought the end of the movie was awesome. I really enjoyed watching the two in the room together. Fantastic acting IMO.

I agree the contrast was not there. I think Scott missed the boat on the style, but the movie and acting was great.

Watched this today, thought it was a very good movie. I'd stop short of calling it great, as I agree that some scenes seemed to drawn out, others felt rushed, and it still ran 2.5 hrs. The length didn't bother, but I think they could have done better with the time. But otherwise, very good. Definitely a worthwhile HD DVD pickup and movie worth owning.

did anyone ever catch at the begining the comment about competing companies? "sony this, toshiba that" lol riddley saying something? lol

Wow. Really ? Can you post the time codes. Awesome find.

I did catch that and thought it was pretty funny.

Me and my buddy just looked at each other and started laughing. :D

Wow. Really ? Can you post the time codes. Awesome find.

Its at the begining of the movie where Bumpy and Frank (Denzel) go in that electronic store.

Thanks buddy for the info.

Great actors, good film, bad photographic technique.

Contrary to director's belief, people did not see in dull colors in previous decades. The time period aspects show up in the colors and textures of clothing.

I often wonder how directors make the decision to get multi-million dollar actors; great location shooting that recreates a past time; and spend what looks like 10 cents on film stock.

I bought the SD DVD version for $13.99 at CC and played it on my XA2 fantastic picture sound was ok other wise great movie.

Why did you get the SD over the HD?? Downright silly.

I bought the movie on release day then decided to rent it instead from Hollywood video. Great movie, I returned it today and all of their HD-DVD's have been pulled and are selling for 14.99. I might have to go back and purchase American Gangster :-D

Can anyone report some info on the PQ?

PQ is very average.

Soft, muddy, flat. All of that could be the orignal "artistic" director intent (how can somebody call mediocre art is beyond me, but that happens), but it also has a lot of EE, which is inexcusable.

It seems that since Microsoft stopped supervising each VC1 transfer, quality has steeply gone down. Most recent VC1 transfers (including high bitrate BR ones) are soft. In contrast most recent AVC transfers are very sharp.

I have a second copy of this HD DVD release that's in perfect condition that I can't return, if anyone wants to pick it up off me for a small PayPal fee, I'll ship it to you.

I know this isn't the place for a post like that, sorry mods, but I just really want to get rid of this second copy.

I have a second copy of this HD DVD release that's in perfect condition that I can't return, if anyone wants to pick it up off me for a small PayPal fee, I'll ship it to you.

I know this isn't the place for a post like that, sorry mods, but I just really want to get rid of this second copy.


Good to know that you making $20 is more important than your fellow forum members.

Makes me really want to take this off your hands.

PQ is very average.

Soft, muddy, flat. All of that could be the orignal "artistic" director intent (how can somebody call mediocre art is beyond me, but that happens), but it also has a lot of EE, which is inexcusable.

It seems that since Microsoft stopped supervising each VC1 transfer, quality has steeply gone down. Most recent VC1 transfers (including high bitrate BR ones) are soft. In contrast most recent AVC transfers are very sharp.


A perfect transfer of a bad looking film will still look bad.

Apparently the director wanted to work with available light, rather than lighting the scenes for better presentation.

I'll wait for the UK version as the price is very good. I will order today as it may be a sales price.

A perfect transfer of a bad looking film will still look bad.

Certainly. But that does not excuse EE.

Certainly. But that does not excuse EE.

Might not be an excuse but it may have been an effort to give the image some "pop" that would give consumers some reason to buy the disc.

When you're trying to sell HD media, it seems logical that it look somewhat better than the SD version (especially if both are on the same disc).

They had their hands full making this look anywhere near good.

This whole title falls into the "too bad" category. The story was nothing that would make for repeat viewing; the dialog pretty routine; and the visuals lack luster.

By way of contrast, Goodfellas had all of these elements as a plus for the film. Even though Goodfellas is not reference quality, it has better color, sharpness, and detail. All this and it's an old film.

yeah, the visuals for AG were extremely average for an HD DVD. I was waiting for a scene to "pop", and never really got it. You can tell the lighting is very drab. Story wise, I could have used alot more of Denzel's story, alot less of Russel Crowe's story...

About 20 minutes in, so far fairly unimpressive in terms of the video. Loved the movie though when i saw it in theatres.

I watched both the theatrical and the extended versions of the film and did a little report on the differences:

http://www.dvd-forum.at/banner/american-gangster-468x60.gif (http://www.dvd-forum.at/148/schnittbericht_detail.htm)
BILINGUAL version - featuring German and English descriptions!

I'd be glad if you could give me feedback on the bilingual system because where planning to use this for all the "teatrical <-> unrated reports in the future)



P.S.: If this post is considered spam by the administrators I'm very sorry for spamming and agree to the deleting of this post.

Congrats to American Gangster HD DVD, it will be writing in history as the last HD DVD that sold more units than any Blu-ray title for the week.

EDIT:Sorry I missed that Beowulf wasn't counted this week, let's wait for next weeks numbers.