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Netflix Preps 'Dear White People' Comedy Series for 2017[teaser]The new streaming show will hit Netflix next year. [/teaser] Netflix has announced its newest original series. 'Dear White People' is based on the award-winning movie of the same name from writer/director/producer Justin Simien. The 10-episode, 30 minute show is being produced by Lionsgate and is set to premiere exclusively through Netflix in 2017. "Justin is a gifted storyteller whose bold, unique vision is perfectly suited to Netflix," said Cindy Holland, Vice President of Original Content at Netflix. "His original film Dear White People announced the arrival of a fresh, creative voice that had everyone talking, and we're excited to have Justin create this new series for our members worldwide." Set among a diverse group of students of color as they navigate a predominantly white Ivy League college where racial tensions are often swept under the rug, Dear White People is a send up of "post-racial" America that also weaves a universal story about forging one's own unique path. Justin Simien will write the show and direct the first episode. Executive Producers include Devon Shepard (House of Lies, Weeds), Stephanie Allain Bray (Hustle & Flow, Dear White People) and Julia Lebedev (The Dinner, Dear White People). The original film was released in 2014 and won the U.S. Dramatic Special Jury Award for Breakthrough Talent at the Sundance Film Festival. "We're proud to expand our partnership with our friends at Netflix on a comedy that tackles racial themes with a combination of intelligence, honesty, irreverence and wit," said Chris Selak, Executive Vice President, Television, Lionsgate Television. "Our original film with Roadside Attractions catapulted Dear White People into the national conversation about race, and Justin and the rest of the creative team have an opportunity to expand this world and bring its timely and universal themes to a global television audience." A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. Source: NetflixPosted Fri May 6, 2016 at 07:00 AM PDT by: -
HDD Quick Look: 'Captain America: Civil War' in Dolby Cinema at AMC[teaser]This week Dolby treated us to an advanced screening of Marvel's latest triumph, 'Captain America: Civil War' at the AMC Century City 15 on the west side of Los Angeles.[/teaser] A few years ago this particular auditorium debuted as an ETX premium format cinema, which was effectively a bigger screen with overhead speakers. Later it was upgraded to AMC Prime, adding leather recliners as well as a full Dolby Atmos sound system. Most recently, it was again modified to become one of the first 19 Dolby Cinema locations in these United States. (There are also four in Europe and though it is not a Dolby Cinema, the El Capitan in Hollywood CA has both Dolby Vision & Dolby Atmos technologies.)Dolby Cinema takes the ultra-immersive Dolby Atmos sound format and pairs it with a Dolby Vision dual-4K laser projection system (co-developed with Christie) that projects up to 31fL in 2D with a million-to-one contrast ratio. Dolby Vision is also proprietary High Dynamic Range format capable of the Rec.2020 wide color gamut. (For more details, read THIS.) In other words, if you go to a Dolby Cinema auditorium, you're going to experience the best available movie presentation possible. To put them in the parlance of my fellow home theatre geeks, these cinemas are the Pioneer Kuros of our time.Oh, and I almost forgot. "Dolby Cinema at AMC Prime" has been re-branded Dolby Cinema at AMC, which rolls off the tongue a little better I suppose. While not every Marvel movie is a must-see classic, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has effectively become the most expensive television series in history, building up an emotional resonance not seen in many other franchises, and one where each episode feels cohesive, yet has its own tonal flourishes and genre conventions. My favorite episodes thus far have been Captain American and Iron Man heavy (and 'Guardians' is just such a joy). Steve Rogers is yin of The Avengers soul, while Tony Stark is the yang. Contrasting personalities, histories, themes, weaknesses, and prerogatives, these two men are the Mason Dixon line, and here they face an important question:Given the civilian casualties of superhero warfare, should The Avengers be independent vigilantes, or shuld they be overseen by (often corruptible) human governments? These two men, and their super hero friends, debate the topic, argue their sides, and when all else fails, throw down in a series of fights that become more and more personal as the movie chugs towards its closing credits (fan tip: there are TWO post-credits scenes, so stay til the very end if you enjoy that stuff).The Cap movies have been improving with every entry and this is more of the same. Terrific action. Strong thematics. Endlessly evolving character struggles. Emotional resonance. Plenty of jokes. This movie gets a big thumbs up from me (you know, if I was legally allowed to give such a rating). I think Marvel Fans, or anyone that found 'Batman v Superman' a slog, will enjoy this one.If you want a more in-depth review, check out Phil Brown's 4.5-star critique over at The Bonus View. Watch video! // Visually, 'Captain America: Civil War' matches 'Winter Soldier'. Imagery is sharp and clear, but the color palette as a whole is a little washed out as opposed to the over-saturated colors one might find in something like a Michael Bay movie (note: just mentioning this for visual comparison; I am not endorsing or condoning those color choices). I think this look works for 'Civil War', but it does flatten the image a tad, resulting in a visual design that won't drop as many jaws as 'The Jungle Book'. Admittedly, that flick is so gobsmackingly beautiful, it's an impossible act to follow.With its million-to-one contrast ratio, Dolby Cinema does deliver deeper black levels, more accurate colors, and some wonderful shadow detail rendering. Be on the lookout for any type of dark environment (say a villian lair location) as well as blacked out costumes on characters like the Winter Soldier and Black Panther. It's uber impressive that Dolby Vision can render so many shades of black and dark grey.If I was reviewing this film as an Ultra HD Blu-ray or VUDU UHD stream, I'd call it a solid 4.5, if only because the filmmakers made choices that aren't necessarily as eye-popping as they could be. Much like the film's color palette, the 'Captain America: Civil War' sound mix isn't going to change any lives. But only because -- after mixes like 'Life of Pi', 'The Jungle Book', 'Fury Road', or 'Gravity' -- the bar is set impossibly high. In other words, we have a very good mix that'll likely translate quite well to home cinemas, but isn't a top tier entry.My favorite Dolby Atmos mixes are world builders -- they evoke aural landscapes, transporting the audience into other worlds. 'Civil War' feels a little front-heavy, is light on environmentals, and any sense of overhead immersion drops away in more action-packed sequences outside of Henry Jackman's musical score. LFE is good, but never guttural.Sound effect panning and placement evokes a nice sense of geography, especially when the filmmakers take advantage of Dolby Atmos's ability to place sound "objects" in specific auditorium locations. My favorite part of the mix came towards the film's climax, which was an interior location with a nice sense of echo and dimensionality. That said, I'm personally a fan of overhead sound placement and felt this film could have experimented more with the format's capabilities. Blu-ray titles like 'Bram Stoker's Dracula' and 'Game of Thrones: Season 1' did a better job of immersing the audience.Such is filmmaking, though -- different films have different visions and I'm sure the filmmakers involved here have 'Civil War' sounding exactly they way they want. I look forward to hearing this one again at home. Perhaps Disney will finally be supporting Dolby Atmos in the home as much as it does theatrically. While the technical aspects of 'Captain America Civil War' didn't wow as much as my last Dolby Cinema outing (seriously, 'The Jungle Book' is an eye-gasm of 3D and/or HDR glory), I sure was glad to see it on a big, bright screen with booming sound, all while leaning back in a comfy leather recliner. Another fine Disney / Marvel effort 'Civil War', it deserves to be experienced the best way possible.To find a Dolby Cinema at AMC location near you, click HERE.Until next time, hit us up below or in the forums to share what you thought of this movie, and whether or not you've got to experience this movie in Dolby Cinema or any other premium visual or sound formats. Cheers.Posted Thu May 5, 2016 at 09:30 AM PDT by: -
Hulu Renews 'The Mindy Project' & 'The Path'[teaser]Both shows have been picked up for additional seasons. [/teaser] Hulu has announced season renewals for its original series 'The Mindy Project' and 'The Path.' 'The Mindy Project' is now set to return for a fifth season while 'The Path' has been granted a second season order. In addition, the streaming platform has announced a new election special from Triumph, the Insult Comic Dog. 'The Path' follows a family at the center of a controversial cult movement as they struggle with relationships, faith and power. Each episode takes an in-depth look at the gravitational pull of belief and what it means to choose between the life we live and the life we want. The series blends elements of mystery-thriller, romance and the supernatural. The show was created by Jessica Goldberg who also wrote and executive-produced the series, along with Katims and Michelle Lee of True Jack Productions. Series stars include Aaron Paul, Michelle Monaghan and Hugh Dancy. The season one finale will premiere on May 25, and past episodes are now available to stream through Hulu. 'The Mindy Project' is a single-camera comedy series created by and starring Emmy®-nominated writer/producer and New York Times best-selling author Mindy Kaling that follows a skilled OB/GYN navigating choppy waters of both her personal and professional life. The show is executive produced by Kaling, Howard Klein, Matt Warburton, Charlie Grandy and Michael Spiller. The cast also includes Chris Messina, Ed Weeks, Ike Barinholtz, Beth Grant, Xosha Roquemore and Fortune Feimster. In addition to 'The Mindy Project' and 'The Path,' Hulu has also announced plans to stream a second election special from Triumph, the Insult Comic Dog (Robert Smigel). The new special is set to premiere just in time for the election. Likewise, the company also recently snagged the exclusive U.S. streaming video on demand rights to Ron Howard’s feature documentary, 'The Beatles: Eight Days A Week,' (working title), and revealed plans to offer live streaming content in early 2017. A current Hulu subscription starts at $8 per month with commercials. In addition, ad-free playback is available for $12 per month. Source: HuluPosted Thu May 5, 2016 at 06:30 AM PDT by: -
Sony Details BDP-S6700 & UHP-H1 Blu-ray Players, Prices Start at $130[teaser]Two new Blu-ray players have been revealed. [/teaser] Sony has announced the launch of its latest Blu-ray players. The BDP-S6700 is a 4K Upscaling 3D Streaming Blu-ray Disc player while the UHP-H1 is a Premium Audio & Video Player with Blu-ray and high-res audio support. Sony's BDP-S6700 offers Blu-ray playback with 3D support and the ability to upscale Hi-Definition content to near 4K quality. In addition, the player offers Bluetooth connectivity with LDAC support for high quality wireless playback through supported speakers and headphones. Likewise, the unit includes wireless multi-room capabilities, allowing users to connect Sony audio products via the SongPal App, enabling playback from CDs and other music files stored on USB memory. The BDP-S6700 is on sale now for a suggested retail price of $130. Meanwhile, the UHP-H1 Premium Audio & Video Player is a Hi-Res certified Blu-ray player with support for SA-CD, DVD-Audio, Hi-Res Audio, and MP3s. The unit features an anti-vibration, reinforced frame and beam chassis design, along with advanced 4K upscaling capabilities for up to 60p playback. Likewise, the player also includes Bluetooth connectivity with LDAC support and wireless multi-room capabilities via the SongPal App. The UHP-H1 will be available soon for a suggested retail price of $350. Beyond Blu-ray players, Sony also recently announced pricing and availability for its 2016 home audio lineup. The collection includes the HT-NT5 Soundbar ($800), SRS-ZR7 ($300) and SRS-ZR5 ($200) wireless speakers, STR-DN1070 ($600) and STR-DH770 ($350) receivers, and CAS-1 High-Resolution Audio System ($1,000). Likewise, the company revealed plans to add HDR support to its VPL-VW365ES 4K Ultra HD Home Theater Projector ($9,999). Finally, Sony's 2016 X850D series, X930D series, X94D series 4K Ultra HD TVs are on sale now as well. Source: SonyPosted Wed May 4, 2016 at 03:00 PM PDT by: -
Hulu Plans Live TV Streaming for 2017 & Snags Rights to New 'Beatles' Documentary[teaser]The streaming platform will offer live programming next year. [/teaser] Hulu has revealed plans to stream live TV content in early 2017. In addition, the company has announced a new Beatles documentary from director Ron Howard. Though exact details have not been revealed yet, Hulu live streaming will feature content from broadcast and cable brands, including live sports, news, and events. Likewise, subscribers will be able to tune into the live programming without a traditional cable or satellite plan. Networks have not been confirmed, but a report from The Wall Street Journal indicates that Fox, ABC, ESPN, FX, and the Disney Channel are in negotiations with Hulu. Beyond live streaming, Hulu has also snagged the exclusive U.S. streaming video on demand rights to Ron Howard’s feature documentary, 'The Beatles: Eight Days A Week,' (working title). Per the press release: Debuting in theaters and on Hulu this fall, 'The Beatles: Eight Days A Week' is based on the first part of The Beatles’ career (1962-1966) – the period in which they toured and captured the world’s acclaim. Ron Howard's film will explore how John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr came together to become this extraordinary phenomenon, "The Beatles." It will explore their inner workings – how they made decisions, created their music and built their collective career together – all the while, exploring The Beatles' extraordinary and unique musical gifts and their remarkable, complementary personalities. The film will focus on the time period from the early Beatles' journey in the days of The Cavern Club in Liverpool to their last concert at Candlestick Park in San Francisco in 1966. A current Hulu subscription starts at $8 per month with commercials. In addition, ad-free playback is available for $12 per month. Source: Hulu, The Verge, The Wall Street JournalPosted Wed May 4, 2016 at 02:15 PM PDT by: -
NextVR & Live Nation Ready Virtual Reality Streaming Concerts[teaser]The companies are teaming up to offer virtual reality streams for live music concerts. [/teaser] NextVR and Live Nation have announced plans to stream live concerts in virtual reality. VR Content will be available worldwide and the collaboration will include hundreds of performances. Though specific musical acts, performances, and shows have not been announced yet, the first Live Nation virtual reality streams are set to debut this summer. From there, the company hopes to offer a steady supply of live concerts. The virtual reality streams will provide an immersive viewing experience, complete with angles from backstage, the front row, and directly on stage with the musicians. Likewise, NextVR is also planning to implement 3D audio tech to help enhance the experience even more. Live Nation virtual reality streams will be available through the Oculus Home app on the Samsung Gear VR headset. Support for more VR platforms and devices is expected to be announced soon as well. NextVR previously revealed a similar partnership with FOX Sports to offer live sporting events in virtual reality. The five year deal kicked off with VR streaming coverage of the Daytona 500. In addition, the two companies have also streamed the Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) in VR. Likewise, NextVR has also offered live virtual reality streams for Presidential Debates as well. The Samsung Gear VR is a virtual reality headset that weighs just 318g and offers an FOV of 96 degrees. Gear VR currently works in conjunction with Samsung Galaxy S7, S7 edge, Galaxy Note5, Galaxy S6 edge+, Galaxy S6, and Galaxy S6 edge smartphones, using each device's super AMOLED display to help create an immersive VR experience. Suggested retail price for the Gear VR is $99. Sources: Engadget, The VergePosted Wed May 4, 2016 at 11:45 AM PDT by: -
Sony Announces Pricing & Availability for 2016 Home Audio Lineup[teaser]New audio gear is hitting stores this month. [/teaser] Sony has announced pricing and availability for its 2016 home audio lineup. Products include the HT-NT5 Soundbar ($800), SRS-ZR7 ($300) and SRS-ZR5 ($200) wireless speakers, STR-DN1070 ($600) and STR-DH770 ($350) receivers, and CAS-1 High-Resolution Audio System ($1,000). "At Sony, we are committed to creating optimal listening experiences for our consumers," said Yukio Ishikawa, Director, Head of Home Audio Business, Home Entertainment and Sound, Sony Electronics, North America. "Our new lineup of sound products enables music enthusiasts to achieve immersive, wireless, multi-room audio experiences, customized to meet their home’s unique specifications and their own personal listening preferences." First up, the HT-NT5 ($800) is a premium soundbar model with a low-profile aluminum chassis design and three-way speakers driven by six discrete amplifiers, along with a wireless subwoofer unit. HDMI pass-through with HDCP 2.2 compliancy is included as well, offering support for 4K HDR video. Likewise, the soundbar features high-res audio playback and can also be paired with additional multi-room compatible wireless speakers for wireless surround sound. The HT-NT5 will be available online soon and is set to hit retail stores on May 15. Next, are the SRS-ZR7 ($300) and SRS-ZR5 ($200) wireless speakers. The SRS-ZR5 features 2-way speakers and dual passive radiators with a 0.55-inch tweeter and 2.76-inch woofer. Meanwhile, the SRS-ZR7 features a 2.2ch and dual passive radiator design with two full-range 1.77-inch drivers and two 2.44-inch woofers. Both speakers include Google Cast and Spotify Connect support, along with HDMI (ARC) connections. Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and NFC connectivity are integrated as well. Likewise, both models can be paired with other supported speakers for wireless multi-room, stereo and surround sound. Finally, the SRS-ZR7 also adds high-res audio support. Both speakers will be available online soon and will hit store shelves on May 15. In addition, the company is also releasing the new STR-DN1070 ($600) and STR-DH770 ($350) 7.2-channel AV receivers. Both include support for the latest 4K standards with HDCP 2.2 and HDR, along with S-Force PRO front surround tech. In addition, the STR-DN107 uses a new DAC (Digital to Audio Converter) with support for DSD native playback and high-res audio. The STR-DH770 is on sale now, and the STR-DN1070 will hit stores on May 15. Finally, Sony has detailed the CAS-1 High-Resolution Audio System ($1,000) as well. The system features three components, including a main unit and two speakers. Likewise, two independent dedicated amplifiers are included as well -- one for headphones and one for speakers. Each speaker uses a .5-inch soft dome tweeter and a highly-rigid 2.44-inch woofer that is supported by a bass reflex port. LDAC supported Bluetooth, NFC, and USB connectivity are also included. The unit offers support for up to 24bit/192kHz quality High-Resolution Audio in both DSD and PCM formats including FLAC, WAV or AIFF files. Online sales will be available soon and the system is expected to hit retail stores on May 22. Source: SonyPosted Tue May 3, 2016 at 02:00 PM PDT by: -
Amazon Preps 'Julian Fellowes Presents Doctor Thorne' for May 20 Streaming Premiere[teaser]The period drama series is set to arrive on the streaming platform later this month. [/teaser] Amazon has announced the newest addition to its lineup of original shows. 'Julian Fellowes Presents Doctor Thorne' is based on the book series by Anthony Trollope. The show stars Tom Hollander, Ian McShane and Alison Brie. "Doctor Thorne's multilayered storytelling coupled with an outstanding ensemble cast is an exciting addition to our line-up," says Roy Price, Vice President, Digital Video and Amazon Studios. "Prime members have loved having access to Downton Abbey, making each season a top streamed show on Prime Video since 2011, and we hope to make Prime Video the home for even more of Julian Fellowes future projects." The show comes from Oscar and Emmy-winning writer Julian Fellowes ('Downton Abbey') and is being produced by The Weinstein Company. Niall MacCormick is on board as director and Helen Gregory serves as producer. In the series, Dr. Thomas Thorne (Hollander) lives a quiet life with his niece Mary (Stefani Martini, Endeavour) in the English village of Greshambury, which is ruled with an iron fist by the terrifying Lady Arabella Gresham (Rebecca Front, Humans). But Lady Arabella's world is forever changed when she learns that her beloved son is planning to elope with common-born Mary, rather than follow through on his arranged marriage to the rich American heiress Martha Dunstable (Brie). Unbeknownst to the rest of the town, the prestigious Gresham family has all but lost their fortune after their patriarch Francis Gresham Senior (Richard McCabe, Cinderella) squandered it on one of his many fruitless pursuits; they’re now forced to take loans from drunken millionaire Sir Roger Scatcherd (McShane) in order to survive. Lady Arabella's scheme to regain their fortune through the arranged marriage now seems poised for disaster; but Lady Arabella is not one to be easily dissuaded, and thus resolves to achieve her goal by any means necessary. "Downton Abbey captivated audiences for six incredible seasons and it's a tremendous thrill to be part of creator Julian Fellowes' next endeavor Doctor Thorne. Amazon Prime is the perfect home to bring Fellowes' beautiful, smart, and creative world to US audiences," said Harvey Weinstein, Co-Chairman of The Weinstein Company. "Amazon's millions of fans who tuned into Downton Abbey will love this new show. Each episode will feature an exclusive, special introduction from Julian Fellowes himself. And we hope this is the first of many Julian Fellowes Presents that we plan on creating with Amazon and our UK partner at Hat Trick." 'Julian Fellowes Presents Doctor Thorne' will premiere on Prime Video in the U.S. on May 20. A current Amazon Prime subscription costs $99 per year or $11 per month. Likewise, Prime Video is available as a standalone service for $8 per month. Source: AmazonPosted Tue May 3, 2016 at 10:15 AM PDT by: -
HDD Gear Deal Spotlight: Up to 30% off Amazon Fire Products![teaser]Amazon is offering discounts on select Fire devices! [/teaser] As part of the online retailer's ongoing deals, Amazon is running a special sale on Fire tablets and the Fire TV. Fire HD 6, 6" HD Display, Wi-Fi, 8 GB - Includes Special Offers - Currently $70 (30% off). Fire Essentials Bundle: Fire 7" Tablet with Special Offers, 8 GB, Amazon Cover - Currently $63 (28% off). Fire HD 10, 10.1" HD Display, Wi-Fi, 16 GB - Includes Special Offers - Currently $180 (22% off). Fire, 7" Display, Wi-Fi, 8 GB - Includes Special Offers - Currently $40 (20% off). Fire Kids Edition, 7" Display, Wi-Fi, 8 GB, Blue Kid-Proof Case - Currently $80 (20% off). Fire HDX 8.9, 8.9" HDX Display, Wi-Fi, 64 GB - Includes Special Offers - Currently $400 (17% off). Amazon Fire TV - Currently $85 (15% off). These deals will only be active for a limited time while supplies last. Make sure to stay tuned to High-Def Digest for more sales and special promotions!Posted Mon May 2, 2016 at 04:30 PM PDT by: -
Hulu Orders Drama Series 'The Handmaid's Tale' Starring Elisabeth Moss[teaser]The streaming network will debut the show in 2017. [/teaser] Hulu has announced its latest original series, 'The Handmaid's Tale.' The show is based on the novel of the same name by Margaret Atwood and will be produced by MGM Television. "Hulu has established itself as a home for blockbuster television events and what better way to expand our originals offering than with a series based on this acclaimed, best-selling novel," said Craig Erwich, SVP, Head of Content, Hulu. "Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale was seen as ahead of its time and we look forward to bringing it to life on our platform." Golden Globe Winner Elisabeth Moss ('Mad Men') is Offred, a Handmaid trying to survive in the male-dominated totalitarian regime of Gilead. Enslaved by a society that values only her fertility, Offred must find a way to survive in this world of oppression and swift, cruel punishments. The ongoing drama series is being created, executive produced, and written by Bruce Miller ('The 100'). Daniel Wilson, Fran Sears, and Warren Littlefield ('Fargo') will also serve as executive producers. An exact release date has not been announced, but the first season is set to premiere on Hulu in 2017. "The Handmaid's Tale is a project that we have been committed to bringing to life as its story remains as powerful today as it did when Margaret first published her novel," said Mark Burnett, President, Television and Digital Group, MGM and Steve Stark, President, Television Development and Production, MGM. "'Handmaid's Tale' has won multiple awards inspiring a film, a graphic novel, an opera, a ballet and finally, for the first time, a compellingly immersive drama series that has found the perfect home at Hulu and its star in Elisabeth Moss." A current Hulu subscription starts at $8 per month with commercials. In addition, ad-free playback is available for $12 per month. Source: HuluPosted Mon May 2, 2016 at 01:15 PM PDT by:
