The Faceless One said:
I think people are right to complain, why can't both versions be released at the same time on the same disc, blu-ray has more than enough capacity. Sets like Close Encounters and Blade Runner should be the norm, if there are multiple versions they should be packaged together.
I can see why people want both versions released at the same time, though apparently more extras are being made for the extended edition release, but I don't think it's as simple as putting both versions on one disc via seamless branching. There are different takes of a number of scenes, so it's not the case that the extended versions are just the theatricals with spliced-in scenes that can be skipped by the discs.
A box set with both versions on will doubtless will be more expensive, so for people who simply like one version it will be a waste of money. I'm fine with theatricals first, extended second - like the DVDs. It seems logical to me, and as TV's Frink says at least we have a choice.[/quote:34c8x3jm]
It doesn't really matter if it's done by seamless branching or if each version is on a different disc, but if you put both versions in one set it's only a little bit more expensive (although not for a good reason) but if they are seperate sets then it will be twice the price for those people who want both. Choice is great but I'd prefer to still be able to choose which version to watch after I've made the purchase.
This got me thinking about what the trend is for Blu-ray releases when it comes to multiple versions:
Multiple versions on one set:
Blade Runner - also released in a smaller set with only 1 cut
Close Encounters
Gladiator
Donnie Darko
Terminator 2 - earlier version only had 1 cut
Stargate - earlier version only had 1 cut
Spiderman 2
Multiple versions on multiple sets:
Watchmen - 3 version all released seperately.
Only one version available (where multiple versions are available on DVD):
Daredevil - Director's cut only
Star Trek 1 -Theatrical only, 1st digital release of theatrical version, director's cut only exists in standard def
Star Trek 2 - Theatrical only, newly remastered for this release
Star Trek 6 -Theatrical only, 1st digital release of theatrical version
Waterworld - Theatrical only, extended cut only exists in standard def
That's all I can think of at the moment, don't think it's proved anything but I would be much more likely to upgrade from my DVDs if I get multiple cuts, and I think that's the point, people are more likely to take up Blu-ray if they think it's the last time they'll ever purchase that film.