This is the review I would have liked before buying this blu-ray title.
I don't understand why this title has only been published for the German market. Perhaps it has a stronger following over there. Anyway, although the packaging and disk art is in German, once the movie's playing, that's all irrelevant.
I took the risk in getting this German import because although the movie is deeply flawed it has qualities that I really appreciate. The soundtrack by Toto is stunning and Brian Eno's "Prophecy Theme" is haunting. The story is epic. As a kid I was a fan of the book series and was deeply disappointed when the movie came out and was universally slated by the critics.
However, it is also beautiful. The sets and costumes are sumptuous. It oozes atmosphere, like Brade Runner and Aliens. If you can filter out the flaws and focus on enjoying its qualities, it is moving and uplifting. I will add my plea to those of others: "David Lynch, please transcend the trauma of making this film and the confused reactions of the test screening audiences that caused the studio to force you to butcher the movie down to its theatrical release length, recognise that this is a cult film and delight your fans by publishing your original, full-length director's cut." Given that this isn't likely to happen, the next best thing is this German blu-ray package...
To my immense relief, the upgrade to blu-ray was worth it. High definition detail makes it a different experience, one that amplifies the DVD experience. The dire special effects and the grainy scenes are rendered even more painful by high definition. However, the richness of the sets, costumes and performances from the all-star cast are equally boasted to new heights.
For me, the way that high definition brings out the rich production and performance qualities actually helps to heal the flaws and makes it a better movie. If you were able to enjoy the DVD version despite its flaws then you'll love the blu-ray presentation. Enjoy.