'Oliver Twist' (Japanese Import) - High-Def Digest Review

[jed]

Just posted our latest import review, for the Japanese HD DVD release of 'Oliver Twist.' Peter didn't love the film itself -- which he describes as an unusually uninspired entry in the Roman Polanski canon -- but as an HD DVD release, this one does boast some strong video, and a technically solid (if unimpressive) soundtrack. Still, with no supplements to speak of and the high exchange rate for this Japanese import, this one seems likely to be a tough sell for all but the most diehard Polanski fans.

Full review here:
http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/olivertwist2005.html

[Josh Z]

Regarding the video transfer, Amir from Microsoft was able to confirm that all of the Japenese HD DVDs are actually encoded in 1080p24 resolution, the same as American HD DVDs. The "1080i" label on the packaging refers to the expected output resolution of HD DVD players, not to the encoding on the disc.

[Sarang]

Can we get some picture review on a NON-English title, even one's without subs like "Volcano High" and "Brave Story".

[PeterB]

Hey Josh --

Thanks much for the info. Good to know, and I've updated the review accordingly.

Weird that they would "demote" the specs on the back of the box, instead of touting full 1080p/24. But marketing strangeness never ceases to amaze...

Thanks again!

[casper77]

Peter can this website get hands on the German release of Renaissaince?

[jed]

casper77: thanks to our pal Karl C, we currently have a copy of the German release of 'Renassaince' -- look for a review in the coming weeks.