Blu-ray is a mixed bag for me. I find the only time it really shines for me is when new material is recorded with HD cameras. Otherwise, I don’t see that much improvement over DVD, at least not on my little TV. Regardless, there is a certain satisfaction in knowing that I’m buying the ultimate version of a film, and there are a number of releases that I’m eager to see.
Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure – I love Pee-Wee Herman! His debut film is an absolute quotable classic. The commentary on the DVD, featuring socially awkward Tim Burton and subdued but informative Paul Reubens, is one of my favorites. I hope they don’t replace it on the new release, but I would love a nice documentary on Ruebens, the Pee-Wee craze, and some cast and crew interviews.
Return to Oz – Notoriously dark, this movie was criticized for being nothing like its chipper predecessor. That’s a good thing as far as I’m concerned. The classic film has its charm, but I prefer the moody fantasy vibe that Return to Oz presents. I bought the DVD when it first came out and it’s one of those terrible widescreen shoved into full screen affairs. More recent DVD releases corrected this, but I’m holding out for the high definition version.
Lord of the Rings (Extended editions) – The LOTR trilogy is already out on Blu-ray, but naturally New Line Studios is trying to capitalize on fan impatience by releasing the theatrical version first. Annoying studio tactics aside, I hope the extended editions of each film can fit onto a single disc. Then again, those intermissions were always useful as a pee break and to grab another beer.
Finding Nemo – Even though I’d like The Incredibles even more, Finding Nemo is on this list because it keeps being pushed back, year after year. Pixar is really teasing us with this one. Or maybe they’re having technical problems. A high definition version of this film is a given, someday, so I’m not stressing about it too much. I do feel they’ve saved the best for last, so I’ll be excited when the final two Pixar films see a release.
Better Off Dead – Because I love the idea of a low budget comedy getting a high definition release. I’ve never owned a legitimate copy of this film, despite having seen it millions of times. All I ever had was a ratty, off-air VHS recording that was missing a segment in the middle. Finally buying the film after all these years would be a nice way of paying my dues, especially if they can wrangle up some extras this time.
Back to the Future Trilogy – This one is more of an honorable mention, since all three films will be released on Blu-ray this fall. The closest thing to American Doctor Who, (let’s ignore Bill and Ted) I’ve always adored these movies. Oh, all right! I’ve always enjoyed the first film and the beginning of the second film that takes place in the future. I’ve only recently gained an appreciation for the entire trilogy. Footage of the now defunct Back to the Future ride will be included on the set, fulfilling one of my biggest wishes so that I can relive that experience again.
So that’s it for me. What films haunt your high definition dreams at night?