15 November 2023 • 33 min read
IT’S OFFICIAL: Disney & Lightstorm announce The Abyss, True Lies, Aliens & MORE for 4K Ultra HD!
by Bill Hunt, thedigitalbits.com • See original
The Abyss: Ultimate Collector's Edition (4K Ultra HD)
All right, Digital Bits readers...
Having reported on the long and twisted saga of The Abyss and True Lies on Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD for over thirteen years now—and having first broken news of this release all the way back in March—it gives me enormous pleasure to be able to share this with all of you: The day has come at last!
Not only are The Abyss and True Lies finally coming to 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray, so too are Aliens, the recently-announced Titanic, and new versions of both Avatar (with all three versions of the film) and Avatar: The Way of Water!
Here’s the full text of Disney and Lightstorm’s official press release today…
SIX ICONIC JAMES CAMERON FILMS INCLUDING FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER ON 4K UHD™ ALIENS, THE ABYSS AND TRUE LIES! IN ADDITION, SPECIAL COLLECTOR EDITIONS FOR TITANIC, AVATAR AND AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER WITH: ** IMMERSIVE DOLBY ATMOS AUDIO
** STUNNING 4K DOLBY VISION HDR PICTURE QUALITY
** HOURS OF COMPELLING NEW BONUS FEATURES
BURBANK, CA. (November 15, 2023) – A piece of cinema history comes home this year when six box-office juggernauts from Oscar®-winning director James Cameron are released. The six titles—The Abyss, True Lies, Aliens, Titanic, Avatar and Avatar: The Way of Water—will be made available in 4K Digital and 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray.
Cameron, who has helmed three of the five highest grossing movies of all time, says “There’s a world of emotions in revisiting these films and I hope we’ve captured some of that in the new bonus materials we created for our fans.”
Oscar®-winning producer Jon Landau added, “We really wanted to deliver the best possible experience at home so viewers could immerse themselves both in the films and the journeys we went through to make them.”
The 4K transfer for each release will be presented in superb Dolby Vision HDR and with an immersive Atmos audio mix. Additionally, most of the releases will arrive with several hours of captivating all-new bonus features. From the eight hours of Avatar: The Way of Water bonus including all-new deleted scenes to the five hours of new and legacy Titanic extras, fans will delight in the numerous hours of never-before-seen materials. [Read on here...]
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Release date schedule is as follows:
On Dec. 5, 2023, available for the first time ever on 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray and at digital retailers including Prime Video, Apple TV and Fandango/Vudu:
Titanic 25th Anniversary Collector’s Edition Available in 4K Digital, some for the first time ever, on Dec. 12, 2023, at digital retailers including Prime Video, Apple TV and Fandango/Vudu:
Aliens Collector’s Edition The Abyss Collector’s Edition True Lies Collector’s Edition Avatar Collector’s Edition Avatar: The Way of Water Collector’s Edition Available Dec. 19, 2023, are special edition 4K Ultra HD + Blu-rays of:
Avatar 4K Collector’s Edition Avatar 3D Blu-ray Avatar 4K Limited Edition Steelbook (available only at Best Buy) Avatar: The Way of Water 4K Collector’s Edition Arriving on March 12, 2024, new on 4K Ultra HD + Blu-rays are special editions of three of Cameron’s most popular feature films:
Aliens 4K Collector’s Edition The Abyss 4K Collector’s Edition True Lies 4K Collector’s Edition All titles will be available to pre-order from November 20.
Also, on Wednesday, December 6, 20th Century Studios will present Academy Award®-winning filmmaker James Cameron’s The Abyss: Special Edition in theaters for a special one-night-only event. Fans will be able to experience Cameron’s thrilling underwater sci-fi adventure for the first time in stunning, remastered 4K. Tickets go on sale beginning November 20 and can be purchased at Fandango or wherever tickets are sold.
ABOUT THE ABYSS In this underwater sci-fi adventure written and directed by James Cameron, a nuclear sub mysteriously sinks and a private oil rig crew, led by foreman Bud Brigman (Ed Harris), is recruited to join a team of Navy SEALs on a search and rescue effort. The group soon finds themselves on a spectacular life-and-death odyssey 25,000 feet below the ocean’s surface, where they find a mysterious force that could either change the world—or destroy it. The Abyss also stars Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio and Michael Biehn.
The Abyss: Ultimate Collector's Edition (4K Ultra HD)
THE ABYSS: ULTIMATE COLLECTOR’S EDITION
THEATRICAL VERSION AND SPECIAL EDITION VERSION
Street Date
Digital: December 12, 2023 Physical: March 12, 2024 Product SKUs
Digital: 4K UHD, HD, SD Physical: 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack (4K UHD + Blu-ray + Digital Code) Theatrical Version Run Time: Approx. 145 Minutes
Special Edition Run Time: Approx. 171 minutes
Rating: U.S. Rated PG-13
Aspect Ratio
Digital: 2:39:1 Physical: 2.39:1 Disc Size
4K UHD: 100GB Blu-ray: 50GB U.S. Audio
Digital: English Dolby Atmos (UHD only, some platforms), English 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, French 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, English 2.0 Dolby Digital Descriptive Audio (some platforms) 4K UHD Theatrical Version & Special Edition: English Dolby Atmos, English 2.0 DTS-HDMA, English 2.0 Dolby Digital Descriptive Audio, French 5.1 DTS-HDHR, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital Blu-ray Theatrical Version & Special Edition: English 5.1 DTS-HDMA, English 2.0 Dolby Digital, English 2.0 Dolby Digital Descriptive Audio, French 5.1 DTS-HDHR, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital U.S. Subtitles
Digital: English SDH, Spanish, French (some platforms) Physical: English SDH, Spanish, French BONUS FEATURES (NEW):
Deep Dive: A Conversation with James Cameron – An exclusive new sit-down with James Cameron as he revisits the origin of the project and addresses some of the myths behind the production. The Legacy of The Abyss – Discover the lasting legacy of The Abyss with stories from James Cameron and the crew about how and why the film continues to have an impact on filmmaking today. ADDITIONAL BONUS:
Under Pressure: Making The Abyss – The original documentary about the infamous production of The Abyss, with candid commentary by the actors and crew. Archives Deepcore Timelapse – Watch this production timelapse of the Deepcore set being created. Videomatics Montage – Watch a montage of behind-the-scenes production videomatics. Montana Bridge Flooding – See behind-the-scenes footage of the Montana bridge flooding. Engine Room Flooding – See behind-the-scenes footage of the engine room flooding. Surface Shoot Montage – Watch a behind-the-scenes montage of the surface shoot. Crane Crash Shoot – Check out behind-the-scenes footage of the crane crashing sequence. Visual Effects Reel – Watch a reel of visual effects progressions to see how they were developed for the film. Miniature Rear-Projection – Watch behind-the-scenes footage of how production used rear-projection techniques on miniatures. Motion Control Timelapse – Watch this production timelapse of the motion control technology being used. Teaser Trailer Main Trailer Reviews Trailer Still Gallery – Presented here are extras as they appeared in the “Imaging Station" on the Special Edition DVD release of The Abyss, along with the trailers. Since their original presentation has been preserved, resolution and clarity will vary from element to element. ABOUT AVATAR Written and directed by Academy Award® winner James Cameron*, Avatar is set on the lush alien world of Pandora, home of the Na’vi—beings who appear primitive but are highly evolved. Because the planet’s environment is poisonous, human/Na’vi hybrids called Avatars must link to human minds to allow for free movement on Pandora. Jake Sully (Sam Worthington), a paralyzed former Marine, becomes mobile again through one such Avatar and falls in love with a Na’vi woman (Zoe Saldaña). As a bond with her grows, he is drawn into a battle for the survival of her world.
Avatar: Collector's Edition (4K Ultra HD)
AVATAR: COLLECTOR’S EDITION
THREE VERSIONS OF THE FILM INCLUDING THEATRICAL VERSION, SPECIAL EDITION AND COLLECTOR’S EXTENDED CUT
Street Date
Digital: December 12, 2023 Physical: December 19, 2023 Product SKUs
Digital: 4K UHD, HD, SD Physical: 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack (4K UHD + Blu-ray + Digital Code), Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack (Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + Digital Code) Theatrical Version Run Time: Approx. 162 Minutes
Special Edition Run Time: Approx. 170 Minutes
Collector’s Extended Cut Run Time: Approx. 178 Minutes
Rating: U.S. Rated PG-13
Aspect Ratio
Digital: 1.78:1 Physical: 1.78:1 Disc Size
4K UHD: 100GB Blu-ray 3D: 50GB Blu-ray: 50GB U.S. Audio
Digital: English Dolby Atmos (UHD only, some platforms), English 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, French 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, English Descriptive Audio 2.0 Dolby Digital (some platforms) 4K UHD Extended Edition: 5.1 DTS-HDMA, English 2.0 DTS-HDMA, French 5.1 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital 4K UHD Special Edition: 5.1 DTS-HDMA, English 2.0 DTS-HDMA, English Family Friendly 5.1 Dolby Digital, French 5.1 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital 4K UHD Theatrical Edition: English Dolby Atmos, English 2.0 DTS-HDMA, English 2.0 Dolby Digital AD, English Family Friendly 5.1 Dolby Digital, French 5.1 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital Blu-ray 3D Theatrical Edition: English 5.1 DTS-HDMA, English 2.0 Dolby Digital, English 2.0 Dolby Digital AD, English Family Friendly 5.1 Dolby Digital, French 5.1 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital Blu-ray Extended Edition: English 5.1 DTS-HDMA, English 2.0 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital Blu-ray Special Edition: English 5.1 DTS-HDMA, English 2.0 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital, English Family Friendly 2.0 Dolby Digital Blu-ray Theatrical Edition: English 5.1 DTS-HDMA, English 2.0 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital, English Dolby Digital AD, English Family Friendly 2.0 Dolby Digital U.S. Subtitles
Digital: English SDH, Spanish 4K UHD: English SDH, Spanish, French Blu-ray: English SDH, Spanish Blu-ray 3D: English SDH, Spanish, French BONUS FEATURES (NEW):
Behind-The-Scenes Presentation Hosted by Jon Landau – Join Jon Landau as he unlocks the cinematic secrets behind the making of Avatar. Colonel Miles Quaritch RDA Promos – Get an inside look into the RDA with these in-universe promos hosted by Colonel Miles Quaritch. New Still Gallery – Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldaña Special Shoot ADDITIONAL BONUS:
English Family Audio Track Theatrical and Special Edition Release – 5.1 Dolby Digital Direct Access to New/Additional Scenes – Special Edition Herd – As they fly over Pandora in Trudy’s gunship, Jake, Grace and Norm get a closer look at some of Pandora’s creatures The Schoolhouse – Entering an abandoned schoolhouse in the jungle with Grace and Norm to retrieve supplies, Jake makes a grim discovery. Purple Moss – Jake follows Neytiri after his rescue, and delights in the bioluminescent moss that glows beneath his feet with every step. I Don’t Even Know Your Name – Newly tasked with teaching Jake the Na’vi ways, Neytiri brings him to dinner with the entire clan. What Does Hold Them Up? – The Avatar team lands at their new base camp in the Hallelujah Mountains, and Jake and Norm marvel at the floating mountains. Extended Montage – Jake learns the ways of the Pandoran forest under Neytiri’s tutelage, and the gulf between his two worlds grows ever wider. Neytiri’s Flyby – As Tsu’tey, Jake and two other young hunters travel across suspended vines to dizzying heights, Neytiri sails past on her banshee. Sturmbeest Hunt – Omaticayan hunters on direhorses attack a massive herd of sturmbeests, while Jake takes aim from atop his banshee. Extended Love Scene – Jake and Neytiri confess their feelings for one another and bond together for life under the Tree of Voices in this extended scene. Drums of War – The morning after the military’s attack on the Tree of Voices, Parker and Quaritch get some bad news from the reconnaissance team. Tsu’tey’s Fall – In the RDA assault, Tsu’tey fights fiercely after boarding the Valkyrie shuttle. But the soldiers counter with a hail of bullets. Strumbeest Attack – Sturmbeests charge to the rescue when Neytiri is cornered by RDA soldiers in AMP suits. Extended Thanator Fight – Neytiri and her fearsome thanator battle Colonel Quaritch in his AMP suit in this extended sequence. The Last Shadow – When Neytiri and Jake find Tsu’tey mortally wounded, he passes leadership of the Omaticaya to Jake, with one last request of him. Direct Access to New/Additional Scenes – Collector’s Extended Cut Earth – Jake navigates a bleak, dystopian Earth before tragic news offers an escape. Herd – As they fly over Pandora in Trudy’s gunship, Jake, Grace and Norm get a closer look at some of Pandora’s creatures The Schoolhouse – Entering an abandoned schoolhouse in the jungle with Grace and Norm to retrieve supplies, Jake makes a grim discovery. Purple Moss – Jake follows Neytiri after his rescue, and delights in the bioluminescent moss that glows beneath his feet with every step. I Don’t Even Know Your Name – Newly tasked with teaching Jake the Na’vi ways, Neytiri brings him to dinner with the entire clan. Sylwanin – Norm spars with Jake, who proceeds to one-up him. But Jake’s mention of Neytiri dredges up painful memories for Grace. What Does Hold Them Up? – The Avatar team lands at their new base camp in the Hallelujah Mountains, and Jake and Norm marvel at the floating mountains. Alternate Montage with Grace’s Story – As Jake learns the Na’vi ways, the gulf between his two worlds grows wider, and Grace shares the tragic tale of Neytiri’s sister. Neytiri’s Flyby – As Tsu’tey, Jake and two other young hunters travel across suspended vines to dizzying heights, Neytiri sails past on her banshee. Sturmbeest Hunt – Omaticayan hunters on direhorses attack a massive herd of sturmbeests, while Jake takes aim from atop his banshee. Extended Love Scene – Jake and Neytiri confess their feelings for one another and bond together for life under the Tree of Voices in this extended scene. Drums of War – The morning after the military’s attack on the Tree of Voices, Parker and Quaritch get some bad news from the reconnaissance team. They Bulldozed a Sacred Site – Grace and Jake suspect that the RDA forces are plotting to provoke a Na’vi attack, as Trudy brings alarming news. Tsu’tey’s Fall – In the RDA assault, Tsu’tey fights fiercely after boarding the Valkyrie shuttle. But the soldiers counter with a hail of bullets. Strumbeest Attack – Sturmbeests charge to the rescue when Neytiri is cornered by RDA soldiers in AMP suits. Extended Thanator Fight – Neytiri and her fearsome thanator battle Colonel Quaritch in his AMP suit in this extended sequence. The Last Shadow – When Neytiri and Jake find Tsu’tey mortally wounded, he passes leadership of the Omaticaya to Jake, with one last request of him. Memories from Avatar – Producer Jon Landau leads a spirited conversation with cast members, Sam Worthington, Zoë Saldana, Sigourney Weaver and Stephen Lang, recalling warm memories from production and reflecting on the extraordinary success of Avatar. Avatar: A Look Back – In this retrospective, cast and filmmakers reflect on their extraordinary journey making Avatar, the groundbreaking technologies they used to create an unparalleled cinematic experience, and the profound effect the film had on audiences worldwide. Capturing Avatar – Journey with James Cameron and crew in this feature-length documentary, as they embark on a film the likes of which the world had never seen. Part One – After years of testing, research and design, James Cameron’s tackled Avatar, "the most complex film" in his storied career. Part Two – Actors and technology are pushed to the limit as James Cameron pushes the boundaries of a groundbreaking, new filmmaking paradigm. Part Three – James Cameron used ground-breaking technology to merge the virtual and live-action elements of his film. Part Four – The edit room became ground zero as music, sound and visual effects were finalized in order to make the film’s release date. Featurettes – Take a closer look at the creation of Pandora and the making of Avatar with featurettes on key aspects of production design, performance capture, and the post-production process. Sculpting Avatar – Explore how clay maquettes were sculpted to help bring Avatar’s characters and creatures to life. Creating the Banshee – Discover all that went into designing the Banshees, high-flying predators of the Pandoran sky. Creating the Thanator – James Cameron and team reveal how the most terrifying beast in the Pandoran rain forest was brought to the screen. The AMP Suit – Explore the design of the AMP (Amplified Mobility Platform) and discover why it was the perfect weapon for Colonel Quaritch. Flying Vehicles – Explore the design of the RDA’s gunships and how they helped ground the story in a realistic world audiences could connect to. Na’vi Costumes – Discover the costumes of Avatar and why it was essential to create real-world costumes for characters that were seen only in a virtual world. Speaking Na’vi – Delve into the complex Na’vi language created for Avatar, and the challenging task for the cast who had to speak it. Pandora Flora – Explore the science behind the Pandoran rainforest, including the exotic plants and bioluminescence. Stunts – James Cameron and Avatar’s stunt coordinators discuss how they learned to move like a Na’vi, ride a Leonopteryx, and more. Performance Capture – Discover how the actors’ actions, emotions and spirit were captured in performance and transferred to a virtual character. Virtual Camera – Discover the virtual camera system that allowed James Cameron to apply camera angles, lighting and movement to his scenes long after the performance capture phase was completed. The 3D Fusion Camera – Explore the newly designed 3D Fusion camera system which enabled the filmmakers to create an immersive stereographic experience. The Simul-Cam – See how the newly created Simul-Cam seamlessly integrated the virtual world with the live action camera, allowing Jake’s Avatar to appear in a scene with real-world actors. Editing Avatar – James Cameron and the film’s editors reveal the unique challenges they faced editing Avatar, and the benefits of "learning as you go”. Scoring Avatar – Composer James Horner and James Cameron discuss how Avatar’s score was grounded in the familiar while evoking a breathtaking new world. Sound Design – Explore the sounds of Pandora, including the Banshee, Direhorse and Thanator, as well as the near-future engineering sounds of the Dragon, Scorpion and more. The Haka: The Spirit of New Zealand – On the final day of production, the New Zealand stuntmen honored James Cameron with a traditional Haka dance. Production Materials The 2006 Art Reel – Explore a video montage of striking artwork that inspired the movie’s look and feel, accompanied by temp dialogue and score. Brother Termite Test – Watch footage created by James Cameron’s production company for a science-fiction movie that was ultimately never produced. The ILM Prototype with Motion Capture Reference – View a VFX test of the scene in which Jake and Neytiri meet, with performance capture reference. The ILM Prototype without Motion Capture Reference – View a VFX test of the scene in which Jake and Neytiri meet, without performance capture reference. Screen Test – Sam Worthington (Raw Footage) – This raw screen-test footage shows Sam Worthington nailing the part of Jake Sully in Avatar. Screen Test – Zoe Saldaña (Raw Footage) – Zoe Saldaña tackles three scenes: Neytiri meeting Jake, their first visit to the Tree of Voices, and her learning of his deceit. Zoe’s Life Cast (Raw Footage) – Zoe Saldaña undergoes the all-encompassing process of creating the life cast that will transform her into Neytiri. James Cameron Speech: Beginning of Live Action Filming (Raw Footage) – Director James Cameron inspires and gives thanks to the crew on the first day of live-action filming in New Zealand. ILM VFX Progression – Break down the layers of effects in a series of shots that showcase Avatar’s battles, vehicles and explosions. Framestore VFX Progression – This reel opens a window into the art of worldbuilding through visual effects, highlighting Jake’s arrival on Pandora and more. [HY·DRAU"LX] VFX Progression – Examine the layers of effects in shots such as the interior of Trudy’s gunner, the shuttle bringing Jake to Pandora, and more. Hybride VFX Progression – Experience how the layering of effects in various shots from Avatar helps bring these scenes to life on screen. Prime Focus VFX Progression – See the effects layered into the base’s control room where Jake tells the Colonel and Selfridge about Hometree, and more. Look Effects, Inc. VFX Progression – Unpeel the effects in various shots from the base and mountain camps. Crew Film: The Volume – Avatar cast and crew members appear in a spoof about a mo- cap actor. A Message from Pandora – See how James Cameron’s lifelong quest to protect the environment led him to fight for the Amazon and its indigenous peoples Deleted Scenes – Check out scenes that didn’t make the final cut. User’s Guide for Viewing Avatar Scenes with Unfinished Shots – A tutorial on the different types of unfinished shots seen throughout the deleted material. Stingbat Attack Pandora Rules Jake Meets Norm (First Cut) Jake Sees Decanted Avatars Norm Is a Living God Breakfast with the Scientists You’re in My World Now Grandma’s Teylu Pied Piper Going to the Mountains Interspecies Booty Call Norm’s Attitude Improves Learning Montage Section Early Cut We’re Buying Time Hunt Festival Driving Range The Dreamhunt The Challenge The Drums of War (Full Version) Escape The Eye of Eywa You’re a Long Way from Earth Battle Camp Kick Some Blue Ass Wainfleet Kills Norm Neytiri Kills Wainfleet (Alt Wainfleet Death) The Avatars Attack New Life Scene Deconstruction – View these scenes in various production stages: final with picture-in- picture reference, template and performance capture. Welcome to Your New Body First Run First Sortie Night on Pandora Shahaylu Seyzey You’re Mine First Flight Toruk Macto You Are Omaticaya Now I Am One of You I Trusted You The Aftermath I See You Fly with Me You Chose Me for Something Eywa Has Heard You Archives: Script, Artwork, Marketing Theatrical Trailer Teaser Trailer Avatar: The Original Scriptment Avatar: Screenplay Written by James Cameron The Art of Avatar The World of Pandora The Creatures Pandora Flora Pandora Bioluminescence The Na’vi The Avatars Maquettes Na’vi Weapons Na’vi Props Na’vi Musical Instruments RDA Designs Flying Vehicles AMP Suit Human Weapons Land Vehicles Avatar: The Songs Pandorapedia Still Galleries Pandora – The World of Avatar – Go behind the scenes with James Cameron and Disney’s Imagineers to discover what it took to bring the breathtaking world of Avatar to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Raw Footage Production Elements Screen Test – Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldaña/Raw Footage – In their dual test, the chemistry between Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldaña lights up the screen. Screen Test – Stephen Lang/Raw Footage – Stephen Lang fully inhabits the role of Colonel Miles Quaritch in this series of scenes. Screen Test – Giovanni Ribisi/Raw Footage – Watch Parker Selfridge, Administrator of the RDA, come to life in Giovanni Ribisi’s performance. Screen Test – Joel David Moore/Raw Footage – Joel David Moore pivots from one scene to another, fully invested in the character of Norm Spellman. Screen Test – CCH Pounder/Raw Footage – CCH Pounder controls the room with her regal, imposing presence as Mo’at. Screen Test – Laz Alonso/Raw Footage – As the fierce warrior Tsu’tey, Laz Alonso commands attention in this riveting performance. Speaking Na’vi (Rehearsal/Raw Footage) – The Avatar actors make the Na’vi language their own in a series of clips that shows them learning how to speak it Wētā Workshop: Walk & Talk Presentation/Raw Footage – Go behind the scenes on a guided tour with Richard Taylor, who breaks down the workings of a series of props. Crew Short: The Night Before Avatar – In this animated short, producer Jon Landau has an unexpected adventure in the lead-up to Avatar’s opening. Pandora Discovered – Sigourney Weaver narrates this first look at the world of Pandora. ABOUT AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER Avatar: The Way of Water reaches new heights and explores undiscovered depths as James Cameron returns to the world of Pandora in this emotionally packed action-adventure. Set more than a decade after the events of the first film, Avatar: The Way of Water launches the story of the Sully family (Jake, Neytiri and their kids), the trouble that follows them, the lengths they go to keep each other safe, the battles they fight to stay alive, and the tragedies they endure. All of this is experienced against the backdrop of the breathtaking seascapes of Pandora, where audiences are introduced to new Na’vi cultures and a range of exotic sea creatures. Avatar: The Way of Water stars Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Cliff Curtis and Kate Winslet. Joining the illustrious adult cast are talented newcomers Britain Dalton, Jamie Flatters, Trinity Jo-Li Bliss, Bailey Bass and Jack Champion.
Avatar: The Way of Water – Collector's Edition (4K Ultra HD)
AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER – COLLECTOR’S EDITION
Street Date
Digital: December 12, 2023 Physical: December 19, 2023 Product SKUs
Digital: 4K UHD, HD, SD Physical: 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack (4K UHD + Blu-ray + Digital Code) Feature Run Time: Approx. 183 minutes
Rating: U.S. Rated PG-13
Aspect Ratio
Digital: 1.85:1 Physical: 1.85:1 Disc Size
4K UHD: 100GB Blu-ray: 50GB U.S. Audio
Digital: English Dolby Atmos (UHD only, some platforms), English 7.1, 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, Spanish 7.1, 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, French 7.1, 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, English 2.0 Dolby Digital Descriptive Audio (some platforms) 4K UHD: English Dolby Atmos, English 2.0 DTS-HDMA, English 2.0 Dolby Digital Descriptive Audio, English Family Friendly 5.1 Dolby Digital, French 5.1 Dolby Digital, Spanish 7.1 Dolby Digital Plus Blu-ray: English 5.1 DTS-HDMA, English 2.0 Dolby Digital, English 2.0 Dolby Digital Descriptive Audio, English Family Friendly 5.1 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital U.S. Subtitles
Digital: English SDH, Spanish 4K UHD: English SDH, Spanish, French Blu-ray: English SDH, Spanish BONUS FEATURES (NEW):
Behind-the-Scenes Presentation Hosted by Jon Landau – Join Jon Landau as he takes you behind the scenes of the making of Avatar: The Way of Water and discover the groundbreaking techniques used to bring audiences back to Pandora. Memories from Avatar: The Way of Water – Producer Jon Landau joins Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver and Stephen Lang in a conversation about their experiences and insights coming back to Pandora 13 years later in Avatar: The Way of Water. Production Design Panel Hosted by Jon Landau – Uncover the inspiration behind the new designs of Avatar: The Way of Water with the award-winning Production Design team in this conversation hosted by Jon Landau. Deleted/Extended Scenes – Check out these scenes that didn’t make the final cut. User’s Guide for Viewing Avatar: The Way of Water Deleted Scenes and Extended Cuts with Unfinished Shots Date Night (Extended Cut) Crashed Samson Tiltrotor (Extended Cut) Goodbye Mo’at Neytiri Rides an Ilu Spider Mocks the Recoms Neytiri Spearfishes Learning Montage Ardmore and Quaritch Discuss Jake (Extended Cut) Ta’unui Village (Extended Cut) The Tulkun Hunt (Extended Cut) Scoresby and Garvin Rescued Parents from Hell and Standoff (Extended Cut) Scene Deconstruction – View these scenes in various production stages: final with picture-in-picture reference, template and performance capture. Quaritch Wakes Up in His New Body The Return to High Camp High Camp Biolab Quaritch and Ardmore Discuss Their Mission Jake and Neytiri Argue First Swim Lo’ak Meets Payakan Jake and Kiri Dock Talk Death Rock Spider Finds Quaritch Underwater and Saves Him Spider Drags Quaritch to Land but Leaves Him Production Materials “One Meal a Day” – James Cameron discusses the on-set initiative to eat one vegan meal a day. Editing – Learn, step by step, how the editing team transformed reference camera footage into the compelling narrative of Avatar: The Way of Water. 3D Technology – Learn how the production team pushed 3D technology to new depths in this behind-the-scenes featurette. Virtual Camera – Join Richard Baneham, Oscar®-winning visual effects supervisor, and the visual effects team as they discuss the virtual camera's role in the production process. Bringing the RDA to Life – Join James Cameron, Jon Landau, David Vickery and the ILM team for a look at the visual effects created for the opening sequences of the film. Tank Timelapse – Watch the building of the underwater performance capture tank in this timelapse video. Wētā Reel – VFX breakdown of shots by Wētā Effects. ILM Reel – VFX breakdown of shots by ILM. CJ Jones Sign Language Guide – Learn the basics of the Metkayina sign language from creator CJ Jones. JackCam – Join Jack Champion ("Spider") as he interviews cast and crew on the set of Avatar: The Way of Water. Shaman Blessing – A Brazilian shaman blesses the production of Avatar: The Way of Water. Cliff Curtis Blessings – Actor Cliff Curtis gives Maori blessings for the cast and crew of Avatar: The Way of Water. Beyond the Big Screen Pandora: The World of Avatar – Discover the story behind the artistry and imagination of Pandora – the World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Crew Movie – Avatar: The Way of the Jimverse – Join producer Jon Landau on an animated adventure across the Jimverse to restore order and save the world of Pandora. James Cameron and Jon Landau Hand and Footprint Ceremony – See James Cameron and Jon Landau honored with a hand and footprint ceremony in front of the world-famous Chinese Theater in Hollywood, CA. “Scene at the Academy” – Check out this Academy featurette for Avatar: The Way of Water, diving into a key moment from the film. Archives: Script, Artwork, Marketing Monday Night Football TV Spot – Watch the TV spot broadcast exclusively during ESPN’s Monday Night Football. Archives: Script, Artwork, Marketing – Dive into the Avatar Archives with these exclusive behind-the- scenes production assets. ADDITIONAL BONUS:
Inside Pandora’s Box – A series of featurettes on the challenges facing cast and crew as filmmakers devise new technologies to push the limits of cinema. Building the World of Pandora – James Cameron and a team of talented artists combine years of research with their design skills to build the world of Pandora with new characters, creatures, indigenous clans, underwater environments and the take-no-prisoners hard-tech world of the RDA. Capturing Pandora – James Cameron’s approach to performance capture has the cast performing in a volume rigged with infrared cameras to capture their movement, and head rig cameras to capture emotion on their faces with only the boundaries of imagination to limit them. The Undersea World of Pandora – Co-production designer Dylan Cole and his team conceive of the marine creatures required for Avatar: The Way of Water while James Cameron and his stunt team devise extraordinary means to bring those creatures to life in a performance capture tank. The Challenges of Pandora’s Waters – James Cameron tackles the “non-trivial challenge” of performance capture above and below the water’s surface, utilizing a wave machine and current generator to reproduce ocean conditions, and underwater vehicles to replicate creature movement. Pandora’s Returning Characters – James Cameron reunites with his returning cast – Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver and Stephen Lang. Together they discuss the amazing evolution of their characters in Avatar: The Way of Water. Pandora’s Next Generation – Meet the talented young newcomers who have been cast as the next generation of Na’vi and follow them through the adventure of making Avatar: The Way of Water. Spider’s Web – James Cameron introduced the human character of Spider into the fabric of Pandora – thus creating a host of technological challenges on set…and an incredible journey for the young actor, Jack Champion. Becoming Na’vi – The Avatar cast is immersed in the culture of the indigenous Na’vi, living off the land in the Hawaiian rainforest and training in a multitude of disciplines in preparation for their roles. The Reef People of Pandora – In true James Cameron-style, the Metkayina reef clan has been developed with great attention to detail, bearing unique evolutionary traits and a culture – with new dwellings, new clothes and different way of life – all a result of living off the ocean. Bringing Pandora to Life – Once James Cameron completes his virtual production process, every sequence is turned over to Wētā FX to bring Pandora to life – with unprecedented advancements in facial performance, environments and making CG water look real. The RDA Returns to Pandora – Co-production designer Ben Procter and his team present an armada of new vehicles and human technologies that the RDA brings to Pandora – in concept design and with practical builds. The New Characters of Pandora – Meet the important new characters of the Avatar saga played by Kate Winslet, Cliff Curtis, Edie Falco, Brendan Cowell and Jemaine Clement. The Sounds of Pandora – Hear how James Cameron worked with composer Simon Franglen to create the distinctive music of The Way of Water while building on James Horner’s brilliant score for Avatar, and learn how Chris Boyes created the immersive sounds of Pandora. New Zealand – Pandora’s Home – The production of the Avatar sequels is so thoroughly ensconced in New Zealand that James Cameron considers The Way of Water a “New Zealand film.” Hear reflections from the cast and crew, including the remarkable New Zealand crew, on making the film. More from Pandora’s Box – Additional featurettes that highlight special teams within the production Casting – Discover the screen tests that won the talented young cast their roles in Avatar: The Way of Water. Stunts – The Avatar stunt team isn’t just creating breathtaking action, they’re driving the story. From racing underwater on ilus, flying the skies on ikrans, to maneuvering RDA speed boats, the stunt team leaves you breathless and wanting more. The Lab – Explore the Lightstorm Lab, the backbone of virtual production for the Avatar films. Comprised of specialized teams, the Lab builds & supports every aspect of the production – environments, motion edit, Kabuki, sequence, post-viz and software development. The Troupe – Avatar’s Troupe is the Swiss Army Knife of acting, while playing dozens of roles on set, in the performance capture volume and on live-action sets, they bring life to Na’vi clans and RDA Recoms. They also play Na’vi-scale puppets on the live-action sets. Marketing Materials & Music Video – Marketing materials used to build audience awareness of the film Nothing Is Lost (You Give Me Strength) Music Video – Multi Grammy-winning, music superstar, The Weeknd, performs his emotionally packed end title song in the official music video for the smash hit “Nothing Is Lost (You Give Me Strength).” Theatrical Trailers 1 & 2 – Avatar: The Way of Water used two theatrical trailers to engage the audience. The first was a teaser trailer released 7 months before the film. The second was a standard trailer that premiered 5 weeks before the film’s release. ABOUT TITANIC Experience Titanic, the global box-office phenomenon and winner of 11 Academy Awards®, including Best Picture (1997), Best Director (James Cameron) and Best Original Song (“My Heart Will Go On”). Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet light up the screen as Jack and Rose, young lovers who find one another on the maiden voyage of the “unsinkable” R.M.S. Titanic. But when the doomed luxury liner collides with an iceberg in the frigid North Atlantic, their passionate love affair becomes a thrilling race for survival. From acclaimed filmmaker James Cameron, comes a tale of forbidden love and courage in the face of disaster that triumphs as a true cinematic masterpiece. The film also stars Billy Zane, Kathy Bates, Frances Fisher, Bernard Hill, Jonathan Hyde, Danny Nucci, Gloria Stuart, David Warner, Victor Garber and Bill Paxton.
Titanic: Collector's Edition (4K Ultra HD)
4K Ultra HD special features and AV details have been announced previously. (You can find those here at The Digital Bits.)
ABOUT TRUE LIES Writer-director James Cameron creates an exhilarating mix of non-stop action-adventure and romantic comedy. Secret agent Harry Tasker is a top spy in the ultra-secret Omega Sector—although to his wife Helen, he’s just a dull computer salesman. But while Harry’s been busy saving the world, Helen’s been gathering secrets of her own. When their two lives unexpectedly collide, Harry and Helen find themselves in the clutches of international terrorists, fighting to save not only their marriage, but also the world. True Lies stars Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jamie Lee Curtis, Tom Arnold and Bill Paxton.
True Lies: Ultimate Collector's Edition (4K Ultra HD)
TRUE LIES: ULTIMATE COLLECTOR’S EDITION
Street Date
Digital: December 12, 2023 Physical: March 12, 2024 Product SKUs
Digital: 4K UHD, HD, SD Physical: 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack (4K UHD + Blu-ray + Digital Code) Feature Run Time: Approx. 141 minutes
Rating: U.S. Rated PG-13
Aspect Ratio
Digital: 2.39:1 Physical: 2.39:1 Disc Size
4K UHD: 100GB Blu-ray: 50GB U.S. Audio
Digital: English Dolby Atmos (UHD only, some platforms), English 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, French 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, English 2.0 Dolby Digital Descriptive Audio (some platforms) 4K UHD: English Dolby Atmos, English 2.0 DTS-HDMA, English 2.0 Dolby Digital AD, French 5.1 DTS-HDHR, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital Blu-ray: English 5.1 DTS-HDMA, English 2.0 Dolby Digital, English 2.0 Dolby Digital AD, French 5.1 DTS-HDHR, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital U.S. Subtitles
Digital: English SDH, Spanish Physical: English SDH, Spanish, French BONUS FEATURES (NEW):
Fear Is Not an Option: A Look Back at True Lies – Unveil the explosive behind-the-scenes secrets of True Lies with the cast and crew as they share untold tales of daring stunts, cutting-edge technology, and the comedic genius that brought this spy-thriller to life. Archives: Script, Artwork, Marketing – Dive into the production secrets of True Lies with these exclusive behind-the-scenes documents and more. ADDITIONAL BONUS:
Theatrical Trailer ABOUT ALIENS The terror continues in this chilling, critically acclaimed sequel written and directed by James Cameron. Ripley, the sole survivor of the space tug Nostromo’s deadly encounter with the monstrous Alien, is found after drifting through space in hypersleep for 57 years. She agrees to accompany a team of Colonial Marines back to LV-426—and this time it’s war. Aliens stars Sigourney Weaver, Michael Biehn, Carrie Henn and Paul Reiser.
Aliens: Ultimate Collector's Edition (4K Ultra HD)
ALIENS: ULTIMATE COLLECTOR’S EDITION
THEATRICAL VERSION AND SPECIAL EDITION VERSION
Street Date
Digital: December 12, 2023 Physical: March 12, 2024 Product SKUs
Digital: 4K UHD, HD, SD Physical: 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack (4K UHD + Blu-ray + Digital Code) Theatrical Version Run Time: Approx. 137 minutes
Special Edition Run Time: Approx. 154 minutes
Rating: U.S. Rated R
Aspect Ratio
Digital: 1.85:1 Physical: 1.85:1 Disc Size
4K UHD: 100GB Blu-ray: 50GB U.S. Audio
Digital: English Dolby Atmos (UHD only, some platforms), English 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, French 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, English 2.0 Dolby Digital Descriptive Audio (some platforms) 4K UHD Theatrical Version and Special Edition: English Dolby Atmos, English 2.0 DTS-HDMA, English 2.0 Dolby Digital Descriptive Audio, French 5.1 DTS-HDHR, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital Blu-ray Theatrical Version and Special Edition: English 5.1 DTS-HDMA, English 2.0 Dolby Digital, English 2.0 Dolby Digital Descriptive Audio, French 5.1 DTS-HDHR, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital U.S. Subtitles
Digital: English SDH, Spanish Physical: English SDH, Spanish, French BONUS FEATURES
James Cameron Introduction – A message from writer/director James Cameron introducing the Special Edition version of the film. 2003 Audio Commentary by James Cameron and the Cast and Crew-Special Edition – 1990 Special Edition Commentary by James Cameron and the cast and crew. The Inspiration and Design of Aliens – For the 30th anniversary, writer/director James Cameron reveals new insight into his own inspiration and the design elements for Aliens. 2003 Audio Commentary by James Cameron and the Cast and Crew – 1986 Theatrical Version Commentary by James Cameron and the cast and crew. Isolated Scores Final Theatrical Isolated Score – This isolated track presents, as accurately as possible, James Horner’s music score in its final form following extensive reworking during the post-production process. Composer’s Original Isolated Score – Although there are a few instances where the length of individual sequences was changed slightly after the music was recorded, this isolated score track presents, as accurately as possible, James Horner’s original intentions. Superior Firepower: Making Aliens – Immerse yourself in the world of Aliens with 11 fully-loaded featurettes that deconstruct all that went into making this sci-fi thriller, from casting to creature design to post-production and everything in between. 57 Years Later: Continuing the Story Building Better Worlds: From Concept to Construction Preparing for Battle: Casting and Characterization This Time It’s War: Pinewood Studios, 1985 The Risk Always Lives: Weapons and Action Bug Hunt: Creature Design Two Orphans: Sigourney Weaver and Carrie Henn Beauty and the Bitch: Power Loader vs. Queen Alien The Final Countdown: Music, Editing and Sound The Power of Real Tech: Visual Effects Aliens Unleashed: Reaction to the Film Superior Firepower: Making Aliens Enhancement Pods – Supplemental video pieces to complement Superior Firepower: Making Aliens. Without Sigourney Weaver Origins of Acheron Building Hadley’s Hope Cameron’s Design Philosophy Finding an Unused Power Plant Cameron’s Military Interests Working with Sigourney Weaver The Importance of Being Bishop Paul Reiser on Carter Burke The Paxton/Cameron Connection Becoming Vasquez On Set: Infiltrating the Colony Props: Personal Light Unit Simon Atherton Talks Weapons Praising Stan Winston Test Footage: Chestburster Fighting the Facehugger Test Footage: Facehugger Stan Winston’s Challenge Test Footage: Queen Alien Stan Winston’s Legacy Cameron’s Cutting Edge Sigourney Weaver’s Triumph Re-Enlisting with Cameron From Producer to Stunt Double Pre-Visualizations: Multi-Angle Videomatics Angle 1: Videomatic Angle 2: Videomatic/Final Shot Comparison Audio Commentary by Miniature Effects Supervisor Pat McClung Direct Access to New/Additional Scenes From Special Edition Ripley’s Daughter – Burke informs Ripley that her daughter died two years ago. Van Leuwen’s Verdict – Van Leuwen reads the findings of the court of inquiry. The Colony/The Jordens’ Discovery – The colony is bustling with life and activity. Newt, along with her brother and parents, come upon the Derelict ship. Burke’s Answer – At Ripley’s apartment, Burke explains why he’s making the trip to LV-426. INT. Sulaco – Establishing shots of the interior of the Sulaco before the crew awakens from hyper-sleep. Hudson’s Hubris – As they descend in the drop ship to LV-426, Hudson boasts about their advanced weaponry. False Alarm – Hudson and Vasquez detect motion in the colony, only to find it is pet hamsters. Ripley Pauses – As she enters the colony, Ripley hesitates for a moment. The Sentry Guns – Hicks reveals they have robot sentry systems. While examining the colony blueprints, Ripley and Hicks discuss where to place the robot sentries. Fire in the Hole – Hudson and Vasquez set up the UA 571-C remote sentry weapons and following a quick test, seal the tunnel. Last Line of Defense – The Sentry Guns dutifully scan the tunnel for incoming targets. Newt’s Questions – Newt quizzes Ripley about the fate of her parents. Hudson’s “Ant” Theory – Hudson speculates on how the Aliens are organized and reproduce. The Aliens Attack – The Sentry Guns unload on multiple targets. The Aliens Retreat – Under withering fire from the sentries, the Aliens are temporarily repulsed. First Name Basis – As Ripley departs the drop ship to try and rescue Newt, she and Hicks share their first names with each other. Deleted Scene: Burke Cocooned – Long one of the most sought-after lost moments from the entire Alien Anthology, this scene depicting Carter Burke’s fate is now revealed. Deleted Scene Montage – This collection of scene extensions and omitted moments represents the remainder of deleted scenes not appearing in either the Theatrical Version or the Special Edition. Still Galleries and More Original Treatment by James Cameron Storyboard Archive The Art of Aliens Cast Portrait Gallery Production Image Galleries Continuity Polaroids Weapons and Vehicles Stan Winston’s Workshop Colonial Marine Helmet Cameras Video Graphics Gallery Weyland-Yutani Inquest: Nostromo Dossiers Post-Production Aftermath Image Galleries Laserdisc Archives Main Title Exploration Teaser Trailer Theatrical Trailer Domestic Trailer International Trailer ---END---
Now then… here are some quick answers for the questions you might have:
Both versions of The Abyss will be included on both 4K UHD and Blu-ray. Both versions of Aliens will be included on both 4K UHD and Blu-ray. ALL THREE VERSIONS of Avatar will be included on both 4K UHD and Blu-ray. The Blu-ray versions of The Abyss and True Lies are mastered from the new 4K scans. The Blu-ray versions may eventually be available separately, but for now they’re exclusive to these 4K UHD + Blu-ray Combos. All 4K presentations will include Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos audio on 100 GB discs. All titles except Aliens will include new special features. All titles will include the legacy special features. 4K Digital versions of all these titles will be available on December 12th. And that’s all for now!
I don’t about you, but I’m exhausted. Also very very pleased. Rest assured, we’ll share the Amazon.com pre-order links as soon as they go live.
Back tomorrow with more. Stay tuned, friends!
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