-
ESPN Announces Plans to Shut Down ESPN 3D by the End of the Year[teaser]"Due to low adoption of 3D at home."[/teaser] Troubling news for fans of 3D and sports as ESPN has announced plans to shut down its ESPN 3D channel by the end of the year. The reasoning behind the decision leaves little to the imagination. ESPN banked heavily on the idea of capturing a new wave of 3D owners, but with "low adoption," the Disney-owned sports giant has made its 3D determination. From Katina Arnold, ESPN PR, "ESPN 3D was great at home but due to low adoption of 3D to home, we are discontinuing to focus on other products for fans and affiliates." One of the earliest boons of the recent 3D TV push was ESPN. ESPN 3D was launched with the last World Cup in June of 2010 but will not be around for a second 3D World Cup broadcast. In less than three years the network launched, moved to 24 hour 3D content, and was carried by major carriers such as Comcast, DirecTV, Verizon FIOS, and AT&T. Unfortunately for ESPN 3D, AT&T stopped carrying the channel back in 2011 citing high costs and low demands. Of course, if demand for 3D content at home increased, say due to better than current 3D display methods, ESPN might hop right back on board. Before that happens though, it is likely that ESPN will pursue delivering Ultra HD broadcasts. "ESPN 3D production (is) unmatched! As tech leader ESPN will continue to experiment with things like UHDTV. Source: The Verge Author: Brian HossPosted Wed Jun 12, 2013 at 09:00 AM PDT by: -
High-Def Digest's Father's Day Gift Guide 2013by Steven Cohen Now that Mother's Day is behind us, it's time to once again turn our attentions to dear old dad. [teaser]Buying the perfect gift for any movie-loving father can be quite a challenge, so we're here to help make your HD shopping experience a little easier with our Father's Day Gift Guide.[/teaser] Filled with classic flicks, contemporary blockbusters, and several must own boxsets, this list offers Blu-ray suggestions for fathers of all tastes -- though, the emphasis is definitely on explosions. After all, what father doesn't love explosions? And as a very special added bonus, much like our previous Mother's Day Gift Guide, this list is officially "Father Approved." That's right, my very own dad actually had a hand in selecting the titles featured, and will even be providing some very fatherly commentary on all the included flicks! So, without further ado, here's our Blu-ray disc suggestions for Father's Day 2013: 'The Ultimate Gangsters Collection Classics' - This recently released set includes gangster classics 'Little Caesar,' 'The Public Enemy,' 'The Petrified Forest,' and 'White Heat,' offering a fantastic collection of golden age crime flicks from the 30s and 40s. To be honest, I haven't seen any of these titles yet myself, but Blu-ray reviewer David Krauss gave the boxset very high marks and with strong video, audio, and supplements, this seems like a no-brainer for any classic film fan fathers out there. Dad Says: "These are all great classic gangster films. You can’t go wrong with James Cagney, Humphrey Bogart or Edward G. Robinson -- these were the originals." 'The Ultimate Gangsters Collection Contemporary' - Going along perfectly with the Classic set, this contemporary collection includes 'Mean Streets,' 'The Untouchables,' 'Goodfellas,' 'Heat,' and 'The Departed.' With a triple dose of Scorsese and a one two punch of De Palma and Mann, this really is an enticing set. Helping to redefine and reinvigorate the genre, these films took what came before and made it fresh. With plenty of memorable characters and quotable lines to go along with a healthy assortment of bullets and suspense, this is a collection that no father should be without. Dad Says: "These movies continue what the originals started. I particularly like 'The Untouchables.' Who can forget that classic line, 'You wanna get Capone? Here's how you get him. He pulls a knife, you pull a gun. He sends one of yours to the hospital; you send one of his to the morgue! That's the Chicago way.'" 'Patton (Remastered)' - After negative reactions to the DNR riddled transfer on the previous release, 'Patton' has finally received the remaster it so fully deserves. A defining war epic with an iconic performance from George C. Scott, this film is exactly the type of movie I'd usually catch my dad getting lost in on a laid back Sunday afternoon after a hard week of work. Dad Says: "War movies just aren’t made like this any more. It's got an epic scope with larger-than-life characters and stirring action without having to be too realistic with gore." 'The Guns of Navarone' - A kick ass and highly influential "men-on-a-mission" flick, this movie has got it all: action, thrills, interesting dilemmas, an incredible ensemble cast that includes Gregory Peck, David Niven, and Anthony Quinn, and two impossibly large guns. Though it can be a bit ridiculous at times, there is real intelligence and depth in the script, and the story hits all the right classic war movie beats. It's another perfect film to help fathers unwind. Dad Says: "Like 'Patton,' this is just another great old fashioned war epic with impressive visuals. In fact, I recently visited the Greek island of Rhodes where the film was shot. It's a really beautiful location." 'Star Wars: The Complete Saga' - While the prequel trilogy might not be everyone's cup of tea, the Star Wars saga as a whole is really something special. With nearly universal appeal, these movies strike a chord with every generation. Filled with high adventure, wondrous visuals, and some infamous daddy issues, these are the perfect movies for fathers and their children (young and old) to bond over. Dad Says: "These are perfect sci-fi fun. The original three are timeless Saturday matinee films that you can just sit on the couch and watch while eating popcorn and suddenly find youself transported to "a galaxy far, far away" -- especially in high definition." 'Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol' - With the fourth installment of the 'Mission Impossible' franchise, director Brad Bird has taken the series to a whole new level. As far as recent blockbusters go, it doesn't get much more entertaining than this one, and I remember walking out of the theater with my own dad and agreeing that we both had a great time. With all the major dad flick hallmarks present, you really can't go wrong with Ethan Hunt and company. Dad Says: "This last one is definitely the most exciting so far. It's Tom Cruise at his fun and frolicking best." 'Die Hard: 25th Anniversary Blu-ray Collection' - These films basically invented an entire style of action flick, and when I envision my father sitting down to watch a movie on a Saturday night, 'Die Hard' is the first thing that pops into my mind. John McClane is the ultimate wise-cracking big screen tough guy, and these movies have dad material written all over them. Dad Says: "These are all action packed and endlessly entertaining. And they have one of the greatest catchphrases of all time 'Yippee-ki-yay motherf^&*$%!'" 'The Avengers' - I still can't believe that Marvel pulled this off. Their movie spanning shared universe plans were almost impossibly ambitious (especially in the logistical nightmare that is Hollywood). Their phase one strategy is really a pretty remarkable feat if you think about, and the results are any comic book fan's dream come true: getting to see their favorite heroes on the silver screen together. Those with the cash to spend should also consider picking up the entire 'Marvel Cinematic Universe: Phase One Collection' which includes all the individual films that led up to 'The Avengers' for a truly heroic Father's Day treat. Dad Says: "The Marvel movies have become the staple of the modern big budget matinee films like 'Star Wars' before them. They are entertaining and feature iconic characters that many people grew up with in the comics. Hollywood has done a good job of bringing these superheroes to film. The actors, like Robert Downey Jr., really bring humor and credibility to these characters." 'The Mad Max Trilogy' - This highly influential post-apocalyptic action trilogy helped catapult Mel Gibson to Hollywood stardom. The Blu-ray set arrives just in time for Father's day, and with its mixture of science fiction/western storytelling and vehicular mayhem, it should satisfy any Dad's thirst for dystopian action. Dad Says: "I never really had the opportunity to see any of these films, but I've always heard good things about them. Some say it features Mel Gibson at his best, so I look forward to finally watching them all on Blu-ray." 'Lethal Weapon Collection' - This is a set of films I remember my dad watching endlessly when I was younger (on old VHS copies taped off of cable with commercials, no less) and to this day these remain quintessential "guy" flicks. Buddy action at its best, watching Glover and Gibson bounce off each other is great fun and as far as I'm concerned neither one will ever be "too old for this shit." Dad Says: "Who can forget the final fight scene on the lawn with the bursting fire hydrant in the first film? Things might change when I finally see 'Mad Max,' but for now, I think this is Mel Gibson at his action peak." 'The Twilight Zone: The Complete Series' - In many respects, this really might be the greatest television show ever made. With tales that frighten, astonish, delight, terrify, and touch the heart in equal measure, the series is full of science fiction stories that run the full gamut of emotion, using fantastical allegories and intelligent writing to probe the inner mysteries of humanity. I have many fond memories of catching various marathons on TV with my dad, and with this set we can have our own impromptu marathons whenever we're together. Dad Says: "First you hear that iconic music, then Rod Serling's voice over, and suddenly you know you're in for something very special – there just isn't anything like it. Some of the stories were simple, some were complex, but all made you go 'wow!' You can watch them over and over and still see something new you didn’t realize was there before. Even after all these years, the episodes are timely and just so cool!" 'Clint Eastwood 20 Film Collection' - Whether in front of or behind the camera, Clint Eastwood is a true Hollywood legend. This collection features twenty of his films, including 'The Outlaw Josey Wales,' 'Unforgiven,' 'Dirty Harry,' and 'Mystic River.' Showing off virtually every side of the actor/director's impressive repertoire, there's a version of Eastwood here for everybody. Of course, most fathers will likely prefer the squinting, grizzled, low talking iteration. Now, go ahead, make you father's day by picking this set up. Dad Says: "Wow, what a great collection from such an incredible talent. Its offers an eclectic range of some of his finest and most fun films. It shows his versatility as both an actor and director." 'Alfred Hitchcock: The Masterpiece Collection' - My father is responsible for introducing me to a lot of movies for the first time (many of which are on this list), but perhaps the most important films he brought to my attention were the works of Alfred Hitchcock. There really isn't much left to be said about the "Master of Suspense" that hasn't already been said countless times before, but this collection of fifteen films from the famed British director really is a must own. Any film-loving dad, young or old, would almost surely love to get their hands on this. Dad Says:"My personal favorite film of all time is 'North by North West.' The way Hitchcock builds up the suspense slowly allowing the audience to use their imagination without ever showing gore is fantastic. He puts average guys in the most unexpected and difficult situations and makes you really feel like you're a part of the movie. His artistry with the camera and the way he portrayed obsession are unparalleled to this day." 'Enter the Dragon: 40th Anniversary Ultimate Collector's Edition' - My dad's a big Bruce Lee fan so there's been many a time that I've walked into the living room as a kid to find the martial arts master punching and kicking his way across our TV screen. This new remastered 40th Anniversary Edition of 'Enter the Dragon' is being released on June 11, giving buyers just enough time to snatch it up as the perfect gift for their action hungry dads. Dad Says: "I remember seeing my first Bruce lee movie, 'The Chinese Connection,' and I was blown away. I had never seen such great karate scenes before. Unlike his earlier films, with 'Enter the Dragon' (unfortunately his last movie), Lee had Hollywood behind him. This movie has good production value but some of his previous Hong Kong produced films take the slight edge when it comes to fight scenes. All of his films are just great fun to watch." 'The Bourne Trilogy' - As Paul Rudd said in 'The 40 Year Old Virgin,' "Y'know, I always thought that Matt Damon was like a Streisand, but he's rocking the shit in this one!" The Bourne films brought a new, contemporary spin to the espionage genre and though your dad might complain about all that annoying "shaky cam" (mine does) there's no denying that these are cool, pulse-pounding movies. Just make sure your father isn't prone to motion induced seizures. Dad Says: "I love the international flavor, the thrilling car chases, the exceptional fights scenes, and the intricate plot lines. Man just turn off the lights, turn up the volume, and leave me alone." 'Star Trek: The Original Series – Season 1' - Gene Roddenberry's planned five year voyage for the starship Enterprise might have ended prematurely, but the original series has gone on to spawn an enduring franchise that continues to entertain. Groundbreaking in many ways when it first aired in the 1960s, the show has been given a beautiful Blu-ray release that should appeal to many fathers, especially those that were kids during the series' first run. You might also want to consider throwing in the Motion Picture Collection the 2009 film and The Next Generation for the ultimate Father's Day trekkie collection! Dad Says: "The original series was ahead of its time. The best part for me is that I can watch them over and over and still feel that same sense of wonderment I felt when I first saw them on TV when I was 10 years old." 'Indiana Jones: The Complete Adventures' - Spielberg’s Indiana Jones films are pure pulpy, popcorn entertainment. Harrison Ford has never been better than when he's wearing that fedora, and the character just oozes cool. The third installment even features a great father/son dynamic. Though, come to think of it, I suppose the fourth one does too, but the less said about "Mutt," the better. Dad Says: "Just like 'Star Wars,' these films are incredibly fun -- no hidden messages, no metaphors, just straight, sometimes silly fun." 'Best of Warner Bros. 50 Film Collection' - This is an utterly mammoth set that covers the entire cinematic spectrum from 1932 to 2010 with fifty films from Warner's incredible catalog -- including classics like 'Casablanca' and 'The Wizard of Oz' and modern hits like 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone' and 'Inception.' With such an all-encompassing assortment of previously available titles, this would make the perfect gift for any father just starting their Blu-ray collection! Dad Says: "Man, what can I say, they're all here. As far as I am concerned this is all you need to keep you film happy for a couple of months. Turn off the lights, turn up the A.C., get the popcorn, and start with number 50 and watch your way down to number 1. You'll be in film heaven. 'Bond 50' - Perhaps the definition of male oriented entertainment, the James Bond films are sophisticated, sexy, and exciting, while often being utterly ridiculous and silly at the same time. This set includes fifty years worth of 007 adventures spanning Sean Connery to Daniel Craig. Be sure to also pick up the latest (and possibly greatest) entry in the series, 'Skyfall,' to complete the set, giving dad the total Bond package. Dad Says: "Saved the best for last. I used to replay these movies so much when my daughter was young that when I would ask her what she wanted to watch, she would just say, "Please, something a little less Bond." All women want him and all men want to be him. For me, the original Connery films were the best. However, each actor has made the character their own, and there is something good about all of them. The newer ones with Daniel Craig have brought the series full circle, going back to a more serious 007. As far as I'm concerned, it's always time for Bond." Well, there you have it. Those are our Father's Day Blu-ray gift suggestions for 2013. We hope that these recommendations help to give you some ideas in your search for the perfect gift for your dad. But remember, whatever movies you end up getting, just make sure you watch them together. After all, that's the best part, isn't it?Posted Thu Jun 6, 2013 at 01:00 PM PDT by: -
DTS Headphone:X Debuts on Hans Zimmer's 'Man of Steel' Soundtrackby Michael S. Palmer I love original motion picture soundtracks. My first one was John William's 'Jurassic Park' and now -- holy crap, twenty years later -- I have more movie scores than any other musical genre in my collection. One of my all time favorite composers is Hans Zimmer, whose 'Crimson Tide' music was used in dozens of mid-to-late 90s movie trailers (including 'Rules of Engagement', 'The Saint', 'Hoodlum', 'G.I. Jane', 'Armageddon', 'The Rock', 'White Squall', 'Mulholland Falls', 'The Devil's Own', 'ID4', 'Hard Rain', and 'Dragonheart'). I used to cue up Roll Tide in my car before performing in various school plays. But that was a long time ago I still do it to psych myself up for important pitch meetings and bar room brawls. So color me surprised when DTS calls to say they're debuting their new Headphone:X technology on Hans Zimmer's 'Man of Steel' soundtrack and [teaser]HDD is invited to demo the new technology and meet Mr. Zimmer in person along with his producer, Peter Asher. [/teaser] After a brief geek meltdown, I wander onto the Warner Bros. studio lot and over to the Clint Eastwood scoring stage just in time to begin the demo with four other journalists. Five pairs of standard headphones sit before us on a mixing console, and a discrete 11.1 speaker array surrounds us. That's a standard 7.1 setup plus four height channels. Before donning the headphones, DTS plays a "speaker call out", which you've probably heard on some calibration discs. Essentially, Hans Zimmer identifies each of the eleven channels (Left Front, Center, Right Front, Right Side Surround, Left Rear Height, etc.). Placing the stereo headphones on our noggins, DTS replays what appears to be the exact same call out. For a moment, we're all wondering if this is a trick -- ha ha, just kidding, the headphones weren't on; we just replayed the callout through the speakers. So we run it again, taking the headphones off every second or two. The room's speakers are silent. Everything we're hearing is from stereo headphones playing the call out encoded in DTS's new Headphone:X. And -- no joke, not an ounce of exaggeration -- Headphone:X not only sounds identical to the discrete 11.1, but DTS says Headphone:X-encoded music will work with any pair of headphones you already own. Next, we listen to a few tracks from Mr. Zimmer's 'Man of Steel' score mixed in 11.1 and run through Headphone:X. If you want to hear a sample (of the score, not the surround mix), the most recent trailer uses Zimmer's work and highlights the unique blend of a "drum orchestra", eight-pedal steel guitars, one Stradivarius violin, and even a small out of tune piano. Listening to Headphone:X is akin to standing in the middle of an orchestra, or sitting in Hans' mixing stage, with thundering drums and other instruments all around you. If you're at all familiar with Mr. Zimmer's previous orchestrations, you might be aware he used razor blades on guitars to create the Joker's theme in 'The Dark Knight', or a football stadium of chanting people for Bane's theme in 'The Dark Knight Rises'. These experiments help create a sonic language for each project (or character). For 'Man of Steel', Hans is most inspired by the imagery of wind rushing through endless telephone wires on the American plains. As fan, the 'Man of Steel' soundtrack is a stunner. Just like when he followed Danny Elfman's iconic 'Batman' theme and made the 'The Dark Knight Trilogy' his own, Zimmer (very humbly) steps into John William's shoes not to replace him or what Zimmer called "some of [Williams'] best work", but to try something new. Oddly, I would argue Zimmer's music -- along with Producer Chris Nolan and Writer David S. Goyer -- makes 'Man of Steel' feel part of the Nolan/DC movie universe. Obviously, Mr. Nolan has said his Batman series is a standalone and not part of any possible 'Justice League' project, but all the same, Zimmer's score makes the current generation DC universe feel connected which, as a fan, is pretty cool. Descriptions are all fine and dandy, I suppose, but the real question is what do you need to hear the 'Man of Steel' soundtrack Headphone:X for yourself? headphones an iOS device or Android device the Z+ Music app the music files themselves, specifically mixed in Headphone:X But wait, how do you get said music files? Starting today, June 11, you can purchase the 'Man of Steel' Limited Deluxe Edition Soundtrack. Inside the steelbook case, you'll find 2 CDs with over two hours of music (including six bonus tracks not found on the other version of the soundtrack), 32-page booklet, and a redemption code to download the Z+ Music app along with the entire soundtrack in DTS Headphone:X. The Z+ Music app is tuned to make each track emulate Hans Zimmer's own mixing stage, so you're hearing his musical score "exactly" as he heard it during mixing. [6/11/2013 UPDATE: Z+ Music is available now on iTunes here (also here in the UK) or via the app store. Z+ Music will debut Android devices next week.] Since I'm writing this a week in advance, I haven't been able to test the download / redemption process just yet. I'm also looking forward to comparing and contrasting what DTS Headphone:X sounds like next to my 7.1 home theatre setup running the stereo CD album through DTS NEO:6 Music and/or Dolby Pro Logic IIx Music. Interestingly, an earlier version of The Dark Knight Rises Z+ is on iTunes right now related to, of course 'The Dark Knight Rises'. The app itself is free, along with some demo materials, but individual tracks and content cost money. My guess is this same app will update on the 10th or 11th to a 'Man of Steel' theme. [6/11/2013 UPDATE: The Dark Knight Rises Z+ remains available as separate app via the above link.] As I said before, if you buy the Limited Edition soundtrack, the Headphone:X music track downloads are included; if you do not, the Z+ Music app should be free and you will most likely be able to, as with 'Rises', purchase content which may or may not include the 'Man of Steel' sound track elements. (I'll check back next week and update you when I can.) Also, DTS is apparently still working on the A/V Receiver version of Headphone:X so you can listen to these files without the need for a smartphone / app. This may arrive in the form of a firmware update for certain receivers, but the specifics remain unavailable. Now that you know all about Headphone:X, I want to share a transcript of a Hans Zimmer roundtable interview discussion where he talks 'Man of Steel', 'The Dark Knight' Trilogy, working with Zack Synder and Chris Nolan, and why -- before Headphone:X -- he never listens to any of his music soundtrack albums. Highlights include confirmation that 'Man of Steel' will feature a 7.1 Blu-ray mix (the entire mix -- not necessarily the music score) and Zimmer's repeat attempts to turn down this project because he feared messing with two American icons: Superman and John Williams' score. Enjoy. ~~~ HANS ZIMMER (as he enters the room and sits at the table): Good day, Gentlemen and Lady. So what did you all think? I don't have to write a letter of apology to John Williams, do I? It's different, yeah, but appropriate for Superman? [THE JOURNALISTS ARE VERY COMPLIMENTARY. THEN WE SEGUE INTO QUESTIONS] HOW WAS THE EXPERIENCE MIXING IN DTS HEADPHONE:X? HZ: Okay, here's something I probably shouldn't be saying, but I never listen to my soundtrack albums because I can't stand it. It's just stereo. When I write, I write in surround. My life is in surround. Why would I settle for less? And we were playing around with a few systems, and [my producer] Peter Asher kept saying, "there's this really great system, you have to hear what these guys [at DTS] are up to." And it was as simple as that. I heard [Headphone:X] and I went, "yes, this will work. This is the future. The future is now." And my [issue] then was, "guys, you only get to do a Superman movie once in your life." I'M NOT SO SURE. THEY SEEM TO MAKE THESE A LOT. HZ: Well, I shared this exact conversation with Zack [Synder] where I was trying to look at my life and the future and he's going "we'll want to go and do this, and go do this", and I'm thinking to myself, "oh my God, here we go again." Because while you work on something, you never have any idea if it's going to be any good. I'm starting to get a sense. When we released the third trailer, which has music from the movie on it, I started to get a sense that we are relevant and people are going to understand that we will be different. That this is different from any Superman movie that's ever happened. This is the thing I always try to do. [I say] let's come up with something new, let's push the technology, let's use these movies to introduce people to new technology. There are many bad things you can say about Hollywood, and they've probably already been said, but one of the things people always forget is that it does push technology. And, another thing which I love, it's the last place on Earth that commissions musicians to play every day. It's the last place that commissions orchestral music every day. Except in our case, the orchestra was maybe a little different. But that was part of the mission; to make it different. WHY WAS 'MAN OF STEEL' THE RIGHT TIMING FOR DTS HEADPHONE:X? HZ: It's a funny old world how movies get made. There are all these little teams working in their own departments, etc. And you deliver your music to the dub stage and there's a whole other team that's never had any involvement in it. I walked into my writing room one day and Chris Jenkins, our main dubbing engineer, was there. I asked what he was doing and he said, "I want to look at the whole movie the way you hear it." And I thoughT, "you know, that's pretty good." The whole team, including Chris Nolan, they're just into this. They respect, not just the few notes I write, but the sonic quality of things. Chris and I spent nine years together with Batman, and part of those conversations were always about sound and how could we make the sound better. I've been waiting for this moment where I could actually go and listen to one of my soundtracks without going, "oh dear... it's only stereo." DOES WRITING MUSIC FOR A 3D MOVIE CHANGE YOUR APPROACHING TO COMPOSING? HZ: Not really, because in a funny way, we sound guys have been ahead of that in the cinema because we've had 5.1 and now we have 7.1 and way beyond. That's the normal process because we take less bandwidth, in a way, than visual effects, etc. We've always been able to be a little ahead. I don't know how much this movie costs -- a LOT -- but ultimately the score's recorded on an off-the-shelf PC on a software that costs five hundred bucks. That's what that whole infrastructure, at the end of the day, rests on, but I think what happened was, the movies and the home systems were starting to give you this fabulous experience and I felt just the straight stereo [for soundtrack albums] didn't. It's just nice that we can now have [a multi-channel experience] on a daily basis. HOW'S THIS SOUNDTRACK GOING TO TRANSLATE ON THE BLU-RAY DISC? HZ: I have no idea. You're talking about something that's down the road. Interestingly enough, I can't remember if it was 'The Dark Knight' or 'Inception' [Editor's note: it's 'Inception'], but because there's a lot of space on the Blu-ray, we actually put the score in 5.1 onto the Blu-ray disc. There hasn't be a single person in this great big world full of people that has said to me, "wow I listened to your score in 5.1 on the Blu-ray disc." [Editor's note: I have and it's great! But Hans kept talking and I didn't want to interrupt.] And to me, that's the disconnect. You have to make it easy, effortless. Make it possible with the tools everybody has already. WAIT, YOU PUT THE 5.1 MIX ON THE BLU-RAY? HZ: As a special feature, with out the picture and without the pesky dialog! IS 'MAN OF STEEL' IN 7.1 FOR THE BLU-RAY? HZ: Yes, definitely in 7.1. That bit I know. [Editor's note: I believe this is the entire sound mix, not about the score] WHEN YOU SIT DOWN TO READ A SCRIPT, DO YOU FIND A SCORE COMING TO YOUR HEAD? HZ: Are you crazy?[LAUGHTER] No, I was the reluctant bride on this one. I kept saying no. Nolan kept saying, "come on Hans, you can do Superman." So I said to him, "you walked in here and you had an idea for Superman and that puts you at an unfair advantage saying this to me." Because, quite honestly, I thought [Superman] is an American icon. The John Williams score is iconic in and of itself, and I think it's some of John's best work. And do I really want to follow in those footsteps? So I said to both Zack and Chris, "tell you what, let me finish 'The Dark Knight Rises'. I'm not going to look at anything, don't tell me anything." And fifteen minutes, I kid you not, after I finished 'Dark Knight Rises', I had Zack on the phone: "so are you coming in?" I sat down with him and said I was completely overwhelmed and intimidated by this task, but tell me the story. So rather than reading the story, it was just two guys sitting around, and he was just telling me a story which was really compelling. It's about a lot things that concern me, a lot of things I know about. An outsider. A stranger in a strange land. Humility. Let's not make this Superman just bombastic. Let's make this a score that deals with and celebrates the people in the heartland of America. Let's make this, somehow, about those endless plains. You know, I kept hearing the sound of telephone wires and the wind rushing through them. And during this conversation [with Zack Synder], a framework started to happen. And once you have a framework, there is this inevitable thing where you want to go on an adventure. In a funny way, Zack's most brilliant move was, as I kept saying "I don't know how to do this, this is really daunting," he went, "You know, Hans, it's just another movie." It just put a sort of reality about the whole thing and it suddenly opened. And of course, Chris and Zack and everybody, they were really open to ideas. Like, when you say, "I want to do this thing with eight pedal steel guitars," you usually get people to start laughing at you. Or like the idea of the drum circle was very specific. It's not just to show off. When you read the list of names in the drum circle, it's a jaw-dropping list, but if you think about what a string section is, a string section is individuals that are extraordinary players. By bringing that group together you get a very different sound that if you have a solo violin. I did [have a solo violin] on 'Sherlock Holmes' and it's a very different sound, a single violin versus an orchestra. So I tried to create these orchestras that were unusual. At the same time, you can hear the energy and the competition between all the players just to give it their best. It was fun just looking at everyone's different style and seeing how each different style survived the experience. WHAT WAS THE FIRST PIECE OF MUSIC COMPOSED FOR 'MAN OF STEEL'? WAS IT FOR A SCENE? WHILE READING THE SCRIPT? HZ: No, no, no, they were shooting the movie while were finishing 'The Dark Knight Rises' and I just refused to look at anything. You know, I always thought The Dark Knight and Superman have nothing in common. One is Zimmer at his darkest, you know. But if you think about the journey the character takes, it's about the first responder. It's about the guy who doesn't look away and is there to help. So that's what these characters ultimately have in common. The subtext of 'Dark Knight Rises', which was maybe just my subtext, but in that story Alfred if forever telling Bruce Wayne to grow up, stop beating people up. What the world needs is your brains and your ingenuity. Stop acting like a teenager. "Use your words." [LAUGHTER] Oddly, this story is very similar. You have this extraordinary outsider whose first punch in the movie is to protect his mother. All he wants to do, all he has learned in this dichotomy of having two fathers, is you gotta be there for people and try make the world a better place. I think that's what both movies, in a funny way, do. Except this movie I was very much trying to use a different language. To answer the question, I was doing my normal procrastination and insanity, thinking I wasn't worthy, etc. Then Zack phoned me and asked if I had anything yet. I said have some Post Its you could probably put on a fridge -- a few piano tunes. Zack said he loved Piano tunes and flew down on Tuesday. So he came down and said "that's great, I'll see you later." It was oddly important to just make it as casual as possible when we sat. The big action stuff and the bombastic stuff, that's really easy to write. It's finding the small phrase that illuminates the heart of the characters is the one that kills you. HOW DO YOU DECIDE WHEN IT'S APPROPRIATE TO HAVE LITTLE OR NO MUSIC? HZ: When Krypton explodes, originally that was the biggest explosions with the biggest music. Then our friend, Ann Marie Calhoun showed up one day, having just been lent this amazing Stradivarius Violin [specifically, the Artot-Alard Stradivarius] and I said, "ooh, that's unique." Because here's what I was not getting. We have a movie that we have to get from there to the rest of the story. This is a mother and a father giving up their child at this moment. So it shouldn't be big and bombastic. If it becomes one singular instrument, I think it might actually be quite poignant. So in a funny way the process decided where we were gonna go against type all the time. One of the first comic book movies I ever did was 'Batman Begins' and one of the things Chris and I were talking about we need to build an autonomous sonic landscape to the world. And I think we did that. Forget the notes, even if you just hear the ambiances, you know this is the Dark Knight. And we tried to do the same with Superman. That's why that mental image of telephone wires and the fields, the little out of tune piano, was really important for me. Each movie I get to, I virtually start from scratch, swearing out all the sounds and going through a sort of craziness trying to come up with a new vocabulary. HAVE YOU EVER TURNED DOWN A SCORE, FOR WHATEVER REASON, AND SEEN THE MOVIE LATER AND WISHED YOU HAD DONE IT? HZ: Yeah, but I can't remember what it was. I turned this one down about three times out of all the right reasons. I just didn't feel I was ready. And weirdly, even though I kept saying to Chris, don't talk to me about Superman while we're doing 'Dark Knight Rises', there was this subtext going all the time. WHEN YOU WATCH A MOVIE, DO YOU ENJOY IT AS A MOVIE OR IS YOUR EXPERIENCE MORE ABOUT THE MOVIE? HZ: Totally, if it's a good movie, I'm totally in the movie. It's weird, it's when there's a misstep in the music, that's when I notice it and say to myself, "why did you do that? It should have been G-major there!" [LAUGHTER] ~~~ Many thanks to everyone at DTS and Warner Bros. for a chance to demo Headphone:X and meet one of my industry heroes! Pick up the 'Man of Steel' soundtrack in Headphone:X on June 11th. 'Man of Steel' hits US cinemas on Friday, June 14 in 2D, 3D, IMAX 3D / 5.1, 7.1, and Atmos.Posted Thu Jun 6, 2013 at 08:35 AM PDT by: -
Disney Debuting Digital Copy Plus with 'Oz the Great and Powerful'[teaser]Disney dropping Digital Copy in favor of a direct triple format option.[/teaser] Disney, which controls evermore important properties and may be the single most important influential seller of bundled digital and disc movie versions, is launching a new version of Digital Copy dubbed 'Digital Copy Plus.' Digital Copy Plus is set to launch with the June 11 release of 'Oz the Great and Powerful,' and is expected to be bundled in place of Digital Copy for all future releases. Digital Copy has existed a slightly refined version of early cumbersome digital version options. By inserting one of the included discs (more recently the DVD copy) into a computer and entering a copy specific code into the correct website, the user could obtain either an iTunes or Windows Media version of the bundled movie. Of course, one important caveat was the expiration date. The process must be completed prior to a fine print detailed expiration date. As a result, many users were left with expired and useless digital copies. Digital Copy Plus eschews the disc altogether. The code allows the user to choose one of three versions, either iTunes, Amazon Instant Video or Vudu. Hopefully, the associated expiration date is no longer an issue. It is important to note that Disney did not opt for the UltraViolet system, preferring the three format option. With the weight of Pixar and Lucas among Disney's many important properties, their plans for digital bundles movies stand to make serious waves through the industry. Source: The Hollywood Reporter Author: Brian HossPosted Wed Jun 5, 2013 at 09:00 AM PDT by: -
Poll: Do You Plan to Buy a PS4 or Xbox One?Both Sony and Microsoft will finally release new videogame consoles by the end of this year. Are you ready to upgrade? If so, will you side with the PS4 or the Xbox One? Vote in this week's blog poll.Posted Wed Jun 5, 2013 at 07:00 AM PDT by: -
Vudu Brings Disc-to-Digital Program Public[teaser]Users can now convert Blu-rays and DVDs to UltraViolet at home. [/teaser] Through Vudu, users can net UltraViolet copies of their home movie collection without even leaving home. The Disc-to-Digital program has previously relied on users bringing copies of their DVDs and Blu-rays to Walmart, paying the $2-$5 per movie charge, and leaving with the movie now tied to their UltraViolet account and accessible with Vudu. Now, as Vudu brings its home Disc-to-Digital program out of private beta, both PC and Mac users can use their home DVD and Blu-ray drives to bypass Walmart altogether. In order to help attract people, Vudu is offering the first conversion, say of a Blu-ray to a HD, Dolby Digital Plus UltraViolet copy, for free. Likewise, those who convert 10 or more discs can get 50% off. The normal pricing maintains its Walmart structure. A DVD can be converted into an SD cloud version for $2 or and HD version for $5. Blu-rays can only yield HD versions at a $2 per movie charge. The process involves checking the disc to ensure that it is not a rental copy, and is thereby much faster than actually ripping the content. The entire process leaves the discs unaltered, retaining their owners full use. User need only download Vudu To Go and have a linked Vudu/UltraViolet account to get started. Those without DVD or Blu-rays still have the option to use the service through Walmart locations. Eligible titles are determined by participating studios, which include Paramount Home Media Distribution, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, Universal Studios Home Entertainment, Lionsgate Entertainment and Warner Bros. Home Entertainment. UltraViolet copies can be accessed through Vudu at no charge on a variety of devices. Source: Vudu Author: Brian HossPosted Tue Jun 4, 2013 at 09:00 AM PDT by: -
ASUS Announces 39 Inch UHD Monitor for Q3[teaser]31.5 inch version priced and coming this month. [/teaser] ASUS made quite a splash last week with the introduction of its PQ321, and the revelations continue with the announcement of a 39 inch version slated for the third quarter of this year. Based off of the PQ321, the 39 inch version will feature a 3840 x 2160 anti glare, IGZO-based LCD. Both HDMI and the essential DisplayPort will be included and should support Picture-by-Picture. Built-in speakers will round out the display's features. At 39 inches, the display is reaching digital signage territory, but still could easily be ideal for various desktop applications. Pricing for the 39 inch model is unknown, but ASUS has beat expectations with pricing for the 31.5 inch PQ321. At $3,800, the PQ321 is not cheap, but nevertheless reflects a trend of cheaper and cheaper 4K displays. Source: Engadget Author: Brian HossPosted Tue Jun 4, 2013 at 08:30 AM PDT by: -
Building a Home Theater: Picking Up the PiecesIt's been a while since our Josh Zyber provided an update on his home theater construction project. After a plumbing disaster set him back way behind schedule and over budget, he's finally made some progress on putting the pieces back together. Follow Josh's progress in his latest status report.Posted Mon Jun 3, 2013 at 01:00 PM PDT by: -
LG Accepting Pre-orders for 55 and 65 inch UHD Models in Korea[teaser]Two more sub $10K 4K models join the trend. [/teaser] Two more 4K UHD models join the fray, (that's 3840 x 2160 for those scoring at home as opposed to the theater standard of 4096 x 2160), and again it is evident that the new tech continues drop in price even before an initial content pipeline has solidified. The LG 65LA9700 and 55LA9700 are now available for pre-order in Korea, and both pricing and features form a contrast with LG's initial 4K offering, the $20,000 84 inch 84LM9600. The 55 inch set is priced at roughly $6,600, while the 65 inch version comes in close to $9,700. The feature derived from LG's Korean listing describes both models as LED LCD designs with an IPS panel base and LG's upscaler. The sets include a 4.1 speaker design, which promises better sound than most two channel throw-in speakers. On the other hand, in order to display a clean design, the speakers are all relegated towards the back. LG's magic remote is part of the package, as is voice control. The models are being presented by LG as enabling UHD for a greater customer base, while at the same time admitting that this is only the beginning of the next-generation of displays. Source: Engadget Author: Brian HossPosted Mon Jun 3, 2013 at 08:30 AM PDT by: -
ASUS PQ321 Brings a 4K Ultra HD in 31.5 inch Desktop Package[teaser]10-bit color, DisplayPort, and IGZO all mean business. [/teaser] ASUS has announced the IGZO-based PQ321 monitor. At 31.5 inches the display supports a 3840 x 2160 resolution. Positioned as a monitor, this 4K UHD device has some distinct advantages to other offerings. Unlike UHD TV sets, the PQ321 is meant to reside mere inches from the viewer's eyes. With its lone DisplayPort, the PQ321 can handle both high resolutions and high frame rates. The monitor also hosts two HDMI ports. and can handle Picture-by-Picture support. The ASUS high resolution capability comes virtue of its Indium Gallium Zinc Oxide (IGZO) LCD design. In short with IGZO, the likely Sharp-derived panel packs in the pixels. The monitor's size positions it at the extreme of desktop displays, typical reserved for creative production or for applications that require four displays in one. Naturally, enthusiasts, including gamers tend to favor beefy displays. The monitor is rounded out with a pair of bare essential 2W speakers. Pricing has not been announced, but is expected to be around $5,000 to $7,000. Source: ASUS Author: Brian HossPosted Fri May 31, 2013 at 09:00 AM PDT by:
