Avatar (DVD + Blu-ray)

The extras on this package look absolutely awesome, if you trust Amazon
....however....
it would seem that Amazons description of what the extras should be on the DVD version are actually what you will find on the Blu Ray version.

The DVD has the 3 versions of the movie split between discs 1 and 2 (thats the first half of each version on disc 1 and the 2nd half of each version on disc 2).

The 3rd disc contains the 45 minutes of deleted scenes and a documentary - but nowhere near the amount of extras as listed. BE WARNED.

This is not a review but just as important. for those wishing to choose between the dvd or blu-ray as amazon have listed the blu-ray features.

So Actually: just for the info, the DVD version will only have 4 hours of special features (this is verified elswehere and on the hut website). where as the blu-ray will have the full 8hrs. Cheers.

Ok so the film we all know about, how can you not? Personally I expected to dislike it given the enormous amount of hype that went with it, but in actual fact I thought it was an amazing film, dazzling, exciting, well acted, great effects and an immersive adventure, which whilst simple in story was perfect in execution. The Blu-Ray disc is pretty much going to be the reference quality disc for anyone wanting to show off their system, it boasts an absolutely staggeringly beauitful high def picture that's so vibrant and detailed it's a pleasure on the eye. The lossless DTS-DH Master audio is more than a match for the visuals, Pandora literally comes alive in your living room with varied and effective use of the whole surround set-up, crystal clear dialog, thunderous punchy action sequences and dynamic delivery of James Horner's score. #

So buy it then yes? Well, it depends.. If you absolutely can't wait to own it, then chances are you already have it. However if you're deliberating, and can wait a few months I would suggest holding fire because this release, believe it or not, in an absolute crime against home cinema releasing has NO EXTRAS. Yes that's right, ZERO, nada, zilch none. Not even an Avatar trailer, a 2 minute intro from james cameron, or even a flimsy Avatar coaster to stand your cuppa on.

But, of course, you know why... It's yet another massive title that distributors can dangle in front of you like a sizeable carrot while the film studio picks your back pocket. And then in 6 months time, oh yes, they will do it again.. There is a 4-DISC SPECIAL EDITION due for release in November which will include a two-hour making-of documentary, deleted scenes, and no doubt a whole wealth of other such coolness And then let's not forget that there will also be the inevitable 3D release a little further down the line from that one.

Whichever way you look at it, this is a barer-than-bare bones release of the film, which whilst utterly spectaular and jaw dropping, doesn't really deserve the hard earned cash of people itching to get behind the scenes.