I am not happy that we aren’t just getting a stand alone Slipcover of this movie. I’ve never been a Steelbook collector. I honestly don’t care if it even has a slipcover. Just release the movie on a stand alone 4k.
Something annoying Sony does is some older 4k movies of theirs won't have dolby vision on the physical disc, then later on they will release a new 4k steelbook of the movie with dolby vision.
I don't think that was intended to screw people over. I think they didn't see the value/desire for Dolby Vision. Plenty of others also didn't use it on releases in 2017-2018. Sony was slower to adapt, but I think that's par for the course with a Japanese-owned company, where part of the culture is to wait and see. Notice how Toyota and Honda didn't dive head first into electric vehicles, as another recent example. But yeah, it is annoying regardless of why. I think they should at least do a discount program or something for early adopters.
@@johnpublic7796 I agree there. Why do I wanna double-dip just to get Dolby Vision? Produce a nice steelbook with DV and I might be inclined to buy, as I did with Starship Troopers.
You can bet your paycheck that slip is coming within 6 months of this release. These companies do it to the customers everytime. They should release them at the same time though and stop ripping off the customers.
If it does then it will only be because enough people bought the steelbook. The reason why they haven't released both at the same time is because they might not think that it is worth their while (after it got a slipcover edition only 3 years ago in the boxset).
This is going the same way as the vinyl record industry. Records used to come in a single LP edition in a regular sleeve, at a reasonable price. Now they come in double LP, gatefold, coloured vinyl versions with additional posters, booklets and even T shirts, at a premium price. Unfortunately, as physical media become more niche, the companies will trend towards making the products more like a niche, collectible product. :(
At one point, I avoided steelbooks at all cost because I liked the consistency of all standard editions. But then some movies weren't being offered standard or they came in digipacks, which I loathe, so I started just accepting steels into my collection. Now that I have a variety of standards, with square cornered slips, round corner slips, no slips and steels, I'm okay with it. I organize my movies first based on genre, then packaging. Having said that, it does seem like they are jacking the prices up. That to me is the most irritating part of this change to steel only.
Ugh. I'm so sick of steelbook and/or digi pack only releases. I am a man of consistency and order, and they do not jive for me. Always should two editions as you said.
I can understand not wanting one if the price is high, but I'm just not sure how much I sympathize with people just not liking steelbooks. I mean, I get people liking slipcovers, but I'd choose a nice sturdy steelbook over a cheap flimsy plastic case any day - again, as long as the price is reasonable.
In the case of Taxi Driver specifically I get the steelbook only release because the standard slip is in the boxset and they probably want to keep the exclusivity of that. But yeah in instances like Amelie, I would've gotten a standard over steelbook if there was the option. I still got the steelbook because I wanted the movie. I don't collect the Columbia boxsets so I'll definitely be getting the Taxi Driver steelbook.
I understand the exclusivity...at first. But after a year or so, the individual releases need to come out. I will never buy the sets, as there is only 1 movie in each set that I want. So it's a waste of money for me. I can't afford buying these big box sets. I did get Paramount Scares set, but only when the price dropped to $75.
Now Ken, that was a real meaningful rant!!!! Options are really good to have. Sony is focusing on 4K steelbook collectors right now. I enjoy a good looking 4K Steelbook. Scalpers, Ebay & others are driving prices up and studios are taking notice. It wasn't always like that. Release date back years ago, meant Standard DVD, Standard Blu-ray, Blu-ray Steelbook, Standard 4K and a couple of copies of a 4K Steelbook. Many options at release date. That was only BESTBUY with all of the options in-store.
I do agree it’s getting out of hand. And with less players in the physical media space it’s sometimes difficult to get the movie in general. When they don’t give us options then you are almost forced to pre-order the steel book and just hope it’s not damaged in shipping. Most of us just want the best quality film we can get and might stretch for a cool steel book - but it’s always nice to have the option. You are getting a sale either way.
One potentially good sign I see is some budget 4K re-releases coming out. Escape from LA, Hunt from Red October, and the other ones coming out for $11 with the 4K, Blu, DVD, and digital code. I'd encourage people to pick up those and other cheap 4Ks as gifts for people with PS5s with physical drives. It could help get some of the gamers to potentially add a handful of titles to their collections and help the format.
I agree. What will basically happen is that a lot of these steelbooks will stop being special, and will end up in the Wal-Mart $5 bin, as some already have. I feel like a lot of these studios are out of touch with audiences, and basically look at it like "hey, steelbooks are getting popular, so let's release only that!" Just elementary thinking. These should also be released at the same time. The Rocky Knockout Collection is a good example. 4 limited edition steelbooks released that went like wind, and too expensive anyway, and the only other option I have is the box set. I'd love to just have those 6 movies as standalone films with slips.
Biggest bummer with steelbook only releases, they typically don’t drop much in price. At least a standard release, you can pretty much count on getting it for $10-15 at some point.
You are right Ken. I think their way of limiting people to film releases, forces the collectors to buy out the more expensive options first, before they even consider the cheaper stand alone releases. I myself find it annoying to get ahold of certain films because of limited stock or availability of a title. It’s even harder being a Canadian movie collector, we don’t get a lot of these releases. I haven’t bought much this year, just due to inflated price gouging by sellers only trying to make a quick buck off the misfortune of actual collectors. A lot of this comes down to stock demand too, look at the James Cameron 4Ks for example. Some people selling Abyss for over $100, that’s friggin ridiculous.
I consider myself a collector of movies and not packaging. I never buy steelbooks, big bulky special editions, etc. I like standard releases because of price and just looks better on the shelf when all are consistent. Can't tell you how many releases I passed up because of this. The most infamous is the back to the future trilogy. Sounds like we are finally getting individual standard releases soon.
I'm not a big steelbook collector for a couple of reasons. First, I always seem to get them damaged, and secondly, slipcovers take up less space. With that said, if the steel buck has the 4K and the blu-ray. I'll get the steelbook just to have two copies of the movie.
I AGREE! I'm a collector who's NOT a fan of Steelbooks. They're exspensive, delicate (they dent & over time the art can wear-off!) & they cannot be replaced: if the pegs that hold the discs breaks, then the whole box is USELESS! I prefer replaceable plastic cases with paper artwork (& slipcovers) that can be transfered. I'm waiting for a non-steelbook copy of ANDOR Season 1. I think I can wait and see if both seasons come out together!
I like all types of packaging. Just depends on what I think looks the best. So I am 100% with you that studios should always provide options. At least a standard and a special release package.
I'm so annoyed by movie companies starting to only put out steelbooks and mediabooks and such. They probably think that physical media is dying anyways so they go all in and only bring out the more expensive versions because enthusiasts will eat it up anyways. I will get the steelbook for Taxi Driver if I have to but I personally much prefer regular amarays. Another annoying aspect about this steelbook-only stuff is that said steelbooks are often completely sold out before they even release around where I live so it's not even feasible to get one. I really hope Taxi Driver in specific will get a standard release as it's probably been my most anticipated 4K release (I didn't get the colimbia classics collection so).
Here's why the studios are doing these releases in this way. Physical Media isn't as profitable as it used to be so there's a limited resource to produce films on discs. When they release Steel book only or slip only it's a testing ground. If enough buy you'll see a re-release later on. If not well they aren't over producing. It's also the old Disney model for their classic animation line up. Release a limited number and stop producing so you can keep the prices at full price instead of taking a loss when the price drops down.
All very good points. Another one I would like to add is the fact that pressing plants are more limited now as a result of the pandemic, which also further constrains resources further.
I prefer the standard release with a slip. The J cards on the steelbooks hide the dents. Every steelbook purchased the discs have been badly scratched.
I agree for us that like slipcovers over steelbooks we should have the option day 1 im thinking of selling most of my steelbooks make more room in my collection for nice shiny slips!
Hopefully, someone will see this and take the clue. Seeing a movie like Major League getting two options, while this is limited to just the one is a huge slap in the face to collectors and the film itself. No offense intended to Major League, I did buy the steelbook because I found the artwork more impressive than the standard release.
Steelbooks are made with cheap steel (probably aluminum or something worse), so they ding, dent, and scratch if you look at em the wrong way. Thats my main complaint with them. That said, standard slip covers aren't much better. They tear, come damaged, scratch, and bend just sitting on the shelf. The best packaging imo is either the Vinegar Syndrome slip covers or the hard boxes (i.e. Arrow and Second Sight). The VS slip covers are thicker than the standard ones and much more resistant to tearing and bending. That said, it's not the biggest deal to me. But, you never complain about anything, so I'm not sure what people are talking about there
I agree, the hardcovers that Second Sight does are the absolute best quality to me. But that’s not the mainstream style😂 Personally in my collection I try not to worry too much about whether theres a slipcover or if its steel or whatever. I care more about the packaging art and owning the movie itself 🤷🏻♀️
Absolutely. Stripes is a winner, and it infuriates me that that is not a stand alone 4k. I really hope they break these sets up like this and make it available outside of that set!
I agree. If they want to make a steelbook then fine. Make it limited to 12k copies or something. Then release a regular slip edition for the masses. Lots of people would want to own this. Not every wants or needs a clanky steelbook.
As a canadian steelbooks have always been more expensive here not to mention getting ones that are US exclusive. Often we are stuck with a regular 4k case without a slip. That being said i might wait and see if taxi driver will get a 4k slip.
Agreed. I'm not into steelbooks or big ass collector's editions (yes, my family is shamed) for many reasons. I'm sure this also will be a messy release like Lawrence of Arabia.
The biggest problem is that you newer know if they release another version… … so,normal, ersion should always be an option. I have some collector editions, just because I really like it… but normally just basic 4K release is the way to go!
This has been an issue for decades. How many times do people go through their movie collection to look at all the pointless crap packed inside the case? There’s a lot to be said for the original dvd release…unless it’s the early version that requires the disc to be flipped over half way through the viewing 😅
I collect movies and, honestly, this doesn't bother me at all. Wether a movie has a slipcover, a boxset only, a steelbook edition, a barebones blu. If the movie looks great and is presented in the best way possible, that's all i care about. The slips, the extras, the different editions... that's all an added bonus. But i just want the movie to look and sound the best possible, regardless on it's packaging.
The thing with steelbooks is that they are so delicate and easy to scratch. I now put on a hard plastic cover for all steelbooks and those, in addition to added cost, are a pain to fold together get on and off. I only go for the steelbooks if I like the art better (see Major League - the slipcover version is...awful) or if those are actually an improved master of the movie (like a lot of Sony's with Dolby Vision only on the steelbook version). Honestly if companies started using their slipcovers for full art without all the banners, tags, and text covering it (like VS and some others do) those would look so much nicer.
They’ve also gotta lower the RRP for all these 4k steelbook, standard and limited editions. Here in the UK the average price for 4k Steelbooks is £25-£35. It’s absolutely outrageous. Some are even higher and something has to give, I for one ain’t gonna keep paying silly prices like this. I’d much rather have a standard release with a slip cover if possible. You’re absolutely right about options, there should always be a standard option. These studios are just greedy b***ards.
I hate steelbooks. They’re popular with video games to and I don’t know why. There should always be a standard edition available. Especially for a classic like Taxi Driver
I don’t care about steelbooks but I do kinda care about slipcovers. I guess I’m backwards I prefer I 4K or Blu Ray movie to have a slipcover but I dot care about steelbooks
I was one of those who bought the Columbia Classics Vol 2 just for Taxi Driver!!! I held off opening it (The blu ray is still a great edition to have) waiting for this day in case I could offload the boxset!!
What I hear you saying is, preorder the steelbook or risk what happened with Lawrence of Arabia. (That one never had a standard release after the steelbook and now it’s going for $65.)
I bought the Colombia classics set only for Taxi Driver at launch knowing a stand alone 4k will come out years later and I haven’t watched any other movie from that set till date. Now I pre ordered this steelbook. No complains guys. Its Taxi Driver. Its worth every money. I don’t have deep pockets but some movies are just worth double or tripple or whatever dipping. Sony knows this well and will milk this movie for some long time. I won't be surprised to see another edition soon with a box set of the same steelbook but with art cards and posters and such.
You know what would make more money for Sony? If Columbia Classics were released individually instead of limited run boxsets. It could have been their answer to Warner Bros. Archive and Paramount Presents
I agree with you i like that idea of having them release their film individually instead of a limited expensive and out of stock boxsets they should do that instead of these box sets that they release with all films in one boxset you're a genius.
No, I think you're making a valid complaint - while I like the artwork on most steelbooks, I don't like the extra cost, or the delicacy of the outside of the box. Recently bought Barb Wire from Turbine but it was steelbook only and would have preferred a regular edition. Definitely not everyone likes steelbooks, but they know a lot of people will grudgingly buy it if there's no regular release, FOMO, and all that... They just finally released a stand-alone version of Lawrence of Arabia in Australia, but you guessed it - it's the same steelbook edition
That’s funny you say that about steel books. I’m feeling the exact same way. Where I was a big steel book collector at one time now, I can pretty much care less about them unless it’s a movie that is sentimental to me. But I still like my slipcovers. Lol.
If the steelbook only option is a problem wasnt the box set exclusivity a bigger problem? Its been stuck in an out of print box set for years at this point.
Keep calling them out and complaining Ken. Thank you! I totally agree with everything you said. Sony has been playing this little game too much in the last few years and gouging their customers. I wrote to Sony Home Entertainment in LA, pleading to them so that they release the standard edition of Lawrence of Arabia on 4K. They did the same trick with the Blu-ray releases some years ago, only releasing the standard edition well over one year after the 50th Anniversay Limited Collector's Edition Blu-ray box. Now they're pushing the standard release dates further away to milk their customers even more. I don't care at all for these steelbook releases that end up costing us double or more in Canada compared to the standard releases. It's shameless behavior from Sony.
I am one of those who don’t really want steel books unless they are the only option and I am more selective on what I do buy if steel book is the only option.
The Extras issues is simply the Studios don't want to pay the Actors for any participating. This was brought by Actress Melody Anderson of Flash Gordon Fame 10 years ago. I forgot to bring this up .With everything involved with the writers strike on general issues to 6 months. So can extrapolate the Studios could careless on any Extras not being done.Now this is more contentious with Physical Media becoming a Niche Enterprise. I'm 58 Love my Physical Media. The Studios are making Billions World Wide and Don't want to pay anything. This issue ha.s been a quiet problem the Studios won't even talk About Always considering Hollywood is always looking for a way to Cheat you. That's my Assessment. Good Video 😎
This video is having massive impact on the sales of this steelbook as the the cover image makes it look like you’re saying the steelbook itself sucks! You really need to change that as this title deserves allot of respect
I am not a fan of steel books for a few reasons. 1. If the cover scratches or gets damaged, that's it, there is no way to fix it. WIh a regular cased version, if the case breaks, you can replace it. Even if the artwork sleeve gets damaged, there are ways to at least print out a replacement cover. This happened to me with the James Bond steelbooks they were doing back in the mid-2000s on BD. I bought like 6 of the movies they had out at the time and the covers all scratched against each other when I had put them on my shelf. I pulled them out to watch them and had paint flakes raining everywhere. 2. I've had two discs in the past crack in half when I was trying to get the disc out of a steel book tray. First time was totally my fault because I wasn't thinking how easy a disc could break when I was trying to remove it. Second time, I was very careful and it still snapped. Now if a steelbook is my only option, fine, whatever, but I won't go out of my way to acquire one. WIth Taxi Driver, I like the movie, but not enough to spend $30+ on the 4K unless it were released as a special edition like what Arrow and Second Sight does. I've only watched my BD once in the 10 years I've owned it.
Ken, shut up! You complain too much! Just be happy we're getting it on 4k to begin with & just be happy physical media is alive & well & these studios are still supporting it!
I used to really like steelbooks. And I will still pick up a steelbook if I really like the art or I like the set it happens to be in. But I hate that moment when you get a steelbook delivered to you, and realize that there is the smallest of dents somewhere on it, or any dents whatsoever. Sometimes you can easily replace it....sometimes not. I truly prefer the slipcover editions now. Plus steelbooks are more expensive and I'm on a budget!
I actually don't like collecting steelbooks, but I'm getting the Dune part 2 stellbook just becise the regular edition does not have the Bluray, and I like having both since I have a regular bluray player in the bedroom and the 4K system is only in the living room
I’ll be getting this since I don’t have it on 4k yet. I prefer steelbooks for anniversary/special editions personally but I do prefer an option. I think they’ll probably offer a standard edition with slip but who knows.
I agree with your rant. Whilst I don’t object to the steelbook style of packaging, I certainly don’t see the point in paying the extra cost associated … it is the film I am looking to collect … not the packaging. I am finding myself being forced into buying the premium product at premium prices just to ensure I can get my hands on a particular film I want to add to my collection. This problem is also being exacerbated by the relatively limited print runs we’re increasingly seeing, so forcing us to preorder each time to avoid missing the opportunity to acquire that film. This is now making me start to question the viability of continuing to collect as I have to throttle back on my purchases and prioritise where I put my limited (precious) cash. As you say, the studio strategy seems to be self destructive in that it will ensure diminishing sales as it prices itself out of a sustainable market by making everything a super top-line premium product. I’m still seething over missing out on preorder of The Crow Steelbook … the only way to get the twin-pack version in the UK. …. And this is another case where, to best of my understanding, there is no intention for a traditional slip cover version to be released here. I guess it’s hardly surprising it sold out so early 😢 On top of all this, we have to continually suffer the frustration of wondering when/if we’re ever going to see so many back catalogue films that are so precious to us all … especially thanks to the attitude of so many bizarre complications with various rights issues. I don’t get it …. The studios want to make money and we collectors are willing to buy product, but said studios continue to resist selling the product they have and we want !!! ….. if you scripted this story for a movie and pitched it to the studios they’d reject it as too far-fetched in favour of yet another superhero “plot”.
I'm totally one of those people who just want the slipcover, I more get them for the content on the discs, I love the stuff like what Arrow does with the reversible covers, that's more of what I want over steel books
I'm with you, Ken. We definitely need more options. And it seems crazy to me studios sit on standalone releases of the movies in those super-expensive box sets.
i have Taxi Driver on blu ray.i will not be buying the 4k or the 8k or the steel book,at this point its getting ridiculous ,how many ways can these company's package the same tired old movies, its nothing but a money grab.lots of old movies that belong in the dollar bin being repackaged and sold for silly prices.
Thank you Ken for stating what I have been feeling about Steelbooks, yeah some look cool, but I am interested in the film itself. Just give me the movie with a great 4k transfer and the original artwork from the poster with a slip-cover edition. Steeelbooks cost more and the prices of 4k's are getting out of hand, they cost way too much these days, to the point where I'm buying fewer movies every day. I was replacing all my Blu-Ray's with 4k's because I want to own a film that is as good as a 35 mm print image-wise. I own a lot of Blu-Rays and DVD's in addition to a large number of 4k's and would love to own all my films on 4k, but because they are getting greedy I've become more selective and I definitely don't want to spend more on a steenbok which is just packaging. Even the boutiques are going overboard with the inclusion of posters, lobby cards, stickers, or whatever. It's just going to sit in the packaging on a shelf, so I don't need or want all that extra stuff so they can jack the prices up even more so. I just want the movie with a slip-cover that is resonablly priced, is that too much to ask for? Maybe if the studios and the boutique labels brought down their prices more people would be buying them, instead they are pushing this into a niche market.
Incredibly salient video and I pretty much agree with the entire thing. For the most part, I genuinely dislike steelbooks. The look, the feel, the presentation. As a collector I like my collection to look good. Shelf-friendliness and a certain amount of uniformity are big for me. I did like collecting the Lionsgate steelbooks because of their fun, gimmicky slipcovers that also looked good on a shelf. And I did do exactly what you mentioned with Fright Night.
Well, this behavior of "no options" is the norm in Germany. It's media book country over here. There's a lot of stuff coming out that I would like to buy, but the fact that 85% of the companies (including studios) decide to put stuff out on media books exclusively puts me off. I don't like the size (they're almost always DVD size...YUCK) and they are way pricier, also. If you have luck, some of the stuff will get a standard release. But even then, slip covers are not a thing in Germany :( So I find myself buying most of my stuff in the UK.
Nice to see Taxi Driver get an individual release, but it feels like they should have prioritized giving individual releases to Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, Gandhi, A League of Their Own, Jerry Maguire, and an affordable version of Lawrence of Arabia. Like, it almost feels like confirmation that those Volume 1 movies are staying out of print.
I'm 100% with you about having the choice. I collect the movies I like and want the movie. I don't care about fancy packaging, steelbooks or whatever. It really pisss me off of rebuying all the movies I like and paying 30$ - 60$ Canadian for something I already poses in HD. Studios should release a standard case for everyone and a more fancyer package for the collectors, including steelbooks. They would sell way more, no doubt about that so price would be more more reasonable for consumers.
Good topic Ken, some good,points made. Too many steel-books releases have inferior artwork designs compared to the original poster art. That’s my major gripe about them, and the over pricing. I only buy steels now that have original or better art than the slip edition.
Love the shirt, Ken! As a collector of Steelbooks for the most part, I think the studios releasing them know that it will make more money in the long run for them.
Thank you for the rant. This is what I’ve been thinking too. Just give me my slipcovers. I understand why they do it but I think they are leaving money on the table. When they release the Disney titles I hope they don’t keep going this route.
I'm a middle-of-the-road guy when it comes to steelbooks. I own some steelbooks that I really like but I also have my share of standard editions. In this case, I will grab the steelbook as I quite like it (provided I can get it for a reasonable price in Canada). It will be a double-dip as I already own the copy that was in the Columbia box set, but c'est la vie. That said, I do think Sony should have provided a standard edition, given that the artwork already exists. As for the people who really don't want the steelbook - they might want to hold off a bit longer to see whether there will be a Second Sight box set. 😁
Your comments are very valid. I do like steel books but only for classic or landmark movies. It’s always nice to have a collectors edition for a special movie but as you rightly say there always has to be options. Economic reasons are important too. I’d rather spend 40 odd euro in my case on 2 good movies then the same amount on a special steelbook of only one of those movies. It would be such a shame if after seeing a resurgence in physical media sales that it all gets ruined by basically greed from the studios. The golden rule of retail is always listen to your customers so it’s important that these issues are called out so well done to you. I enjoyed your video. Thank you for doing it. Greetings from Dublin in Ireland, regards Alan
A league of their own 4K ,stand alone would be a day one for me, I did get Columbia classics volume one,back when it came out, and I was extremely slow at opening anything,now I am stuck,the set is crazy expensive but I can’t think about even opening it, it is only sealed once,if you open it,half the price is gone, I would be happy for a stand alone,just to enjoy it
With the Vol IV recently out, there’s the issue of damaged or missing and even discs that don’t play properly. Sealed is all fine and well till the day you open it and voila- your missing a disc or some other BS issue bc quality control is on the wane. After reading about all the issues on Vol IV, I had to at least visually examine the discs for those reported scratches from the Mexico pressing/packaging plant. I have the Sony tel # and web addy to write to them if I have discovered some issues in my Columbia Sets. I have all 4 now but Vol II & III are still sealed, it’s time to open them and verify their condition and playability. Some have reports of missing data or certain information was accidentally left out when being encoded.
And the other thing about Sony that really irritates me. Is they have a back catalog of DV? D's that never made blu ray. The survivors with Robin Williams. Where the hell is that, It had d v d release only and nothing else
I don't love steelbooks as much as I used to (prefer digipacks and slipcases actually) but I still like them. All of your criticism is worthy and valid, and something like this could be just for them to take advantage of the markup... But one thing to keep in mind is that the more options any given distributor manufacturs at once, then the more complex and/or risky the logistics can get. John Wick 4 had a ton of options because they had faith is how well it would sell... Taxi Driver is definitely a classic that a lot of people want to jump on, but they may not trust the sales history of it well enough to having too many splits in the package manufacturing of it. Could just be greed tho. Feed the most fervent collectors first, then release a "lesser" version later to pull in the more casual collectors for a lesser price.
I am a big Steelbook fan, but I'm starting to back off collecting them and collecting new movies in general. The quality of new movies have taken a huge hit lately, the last few Marvel films have been very underwhelming and I question why I should even bother to add them to my collection physically. Classic movies is what I'm picking up nowadays. I missed the Bridge on the River Kwai Steelbook, so I may seek that out and pay more for it.
For me I will get the steelbook if the price is a few dollars more. I'm not picky about which version. To me The price and the movie will determine if I buy it. Raising the prices just makes me more selective of what I purchase
Steelbooks are fine… but I’m into the sustainability of my collection… Steelbooks can’t easily be switched out if the case cracks. The center hubs for Steelbooks cause unnecessary stress on the disc hub. I have feared cracking the disc just removing the disc from Steelbooks. Give me a “slipcover” edition any day. If the case cracks, I’ll buy a new case and keep going. To each their own, though.
There should always be standard edition that does not go out of print. The problem with steelbook is scalpers buy out the stock then there's no other way to get the movie. Lionsgate does this to some of their 4K too and it is frustrating to find out there is no other way to own it except paying scalper price
I think having a title only be available in a giant pricey box set is far more frustrating.
Bingo!
Fair point. Usually only see that with the boutiques though.
I am not happy that we aren’t just getting a stand alone Slipcover of this movie. I’ve never been a Steelbook collector. I honestly don’t care if it even has a slipcover. Just release the movie on a stand alone 4k.
🤔 Best I can do is a lightly scratched DVD in an old Blockbuster rental case. Wanna buy it?
I started as a slipcover now I'm full on steelbooks
As a steelbook collector, I love when movies get "regular" releases as well so I more easely can get the steelbook and make it more unique!
Something annoying Sony does is some older 4k movies of theirs won't have dolby vision on the physical disc, then later on they will release a new 4k steelbook of the movie with dolby vision.
I don't think that was intended to screw people over. I think they didn't see the value/desire for Dolby Vision. Plenty of others also didn't use it on releases in 2017-2018. Sony was slower to adapt, but I think that's par for the course with a Japanese-owned company, where part of the culture is to wait and see. Notice how Toyota and Honda didn't dive head first into electric vehicles, as another recent example. But yeah, it is annoying regardless of why. I think they should at least do a discount program or something for early adopters.
@@johnpublic7796 I agree there. Why do I wanna double-dip just to get Dolby Vision? Produce a nice steelbook with DV and I might be inclined to buy, as I did with Starship Troopers.
You can bet your paycheck that slip is coming within 6 months of this release. These companies do it to the customers everytime. They should release them at the same time though and stop ripping off the customers.
Not necessarily becuase Lawrence of Arabia never got a slip release outside the Columbia Classic Vol. 1
If it does then it will only be because enough people bought the steelbook. The reason why they haven't released both at the same time is because they might not think that it is worth their while (after it got a slipcover edition only 3 years ago in the boxset).
This is going the same way as the vinyl record industry. Records used to come in a single LP edition in a regular sleeve, at a reasonable price. Now they come in double LP, gatefold, coloured vinyl versions with additional posters, booklets and even T shirts, at a premium price. Unfortunately, as physical media become more niche, the companies will trend towards making the products more like a niche, collectible product. :(
They can charge an extra $10-15 for a steel book.
Bingo!
@@marcoesquandolez4737what’s wrong with you?
At one point, I avoided steelbooks at all cost because I liked the consistency of all standard editions. But then some movies weren't being offered standard or they came in digipacks, which I loathe, so I started just accepting steels into my collection. Now that I have a variety of standards, with square cornered slips, round corner slips, no slips and steels, I'm okay with it. I organize my movies first based on genre, then packaging. Having said that, it does seem like they are jacking the prices up. That to me is the most irritating part of this change to steel only.
I feel every 4K title should start with a standard edition and THEN add on steelbooks, limited editions, etc.
Start with a standard slipcover then maybe 3 weeks later release a steel book.
Ugh. I'm so sick of steelbook and/or digi pack only releases. I am a man of consistency and order, and they do not jive for me. Always should two editions as you said.
You don't have steelbooks AND slips? Who doesn't pick the better artwork when a movie releases as two different choices? Lol
You can bet your paycheck that slip is coming within 6 months of this release. They do it everytime.
I can understand not wanting one if the price is high, but I'm just not sure how much I sympathize with people just not liking steelbooks. I mean, I get people liking slipcovers, but I'd choose a nice sturdy steelbook over a cheap flimsy plastic case any day - again, as long as the price is reasonable.
I don’t chase steelbooks, but I don’t care if it’s the only option or the cheaper option sometimes.
In the case of Taxi Driver specifically I get the steelbook only release because the standard slip is in the boxset and they probably want to keep the exclusivity of that. But yeah in instances like Amelie, I would've gotten a standard over steelbook if there was the option. I still got the steelbook because I wanted the movie. I don't collect the Columbia boxsets so I'll definitely be getting the Taxi Driver steelbook.
I understand the exclusivity...at first. But after a year or so, the individual releases need to come out. I will never buy the sets, as there is only 1 movie in each set that I want. So it's a waste of money for me. I can't afford buying these big box sets. I did get Paramount Scares set, but only when the price dropped to $75.
I agree. I'd love if they put them out individually. I'd like a few of them like Social Network, Jerry Maguire, Sense & Sensibility.
Now Ken, that was a real meaningful rant!!!! Options are really good to have. Sony is focusing on 4K steelbook collectors right now. I enjoy a good looking 4K Steelbook. Scalpers, Ebay & others are driving prices up and studios are taking notice. It wasn't always like that. Release date back years ago, meant Standard DVD, Standard Blu-ray, Blu-ray Steelbook, Standard 4K and a couple of copies of a 4K Steelbook. Many options at release date. That was only BESTBUY with all of the options in-store.
I do agree it’s getting out of hand. And with less players in the physical media space it’s sometimes difficult to get the movie in general. When they don’t give us options then you are almost forced to pre-order the steel book and just hope it’s not damaged in shipping. Most of us just want the best quality film we can get and might stretch for a cool steel book - but it’s always nice to have the option. You are getting a sale either way.
Sony must be thinking "Our prestigious movies deserve the prestigious packaging only"
They know that the only people willing to buy Taxi Driver on physical media WILL pay extra for that steelbook.
@@NoCluYT so true
One potentially good sign I see is some budget 4K re-releases coming out. Escape from LA, Hunt from Red October, and the other ones coming out for $11 with the 4K, Blu, DVD, and digital code. I'd encourage people to pick up those and other cheap 4Ks as gifts for people with PS5s with physical drives. It could help get some of the gamers to potentially add a handful of titles to their collections and help the format.
Hopefully more 4Ks turn up at a budget price, certainly would pick up more if they were a lot cheaper.
I hate Steelbooks and actively avoid them.. lame. I want a regular slipcase
I agree. What will basically happen is that a lot of these steelbooks will stop being special, and will end up in the Wal-Mart $5 bin, as some already have. I feel like a lot of these studios are out of touch with audiences, and basically look at it like "hey, steelbooks are getting popular, so let's release only that!" Just elementary thinking. These should also be released at the same time. The Rocky Knockout Collection is a good example. 4 limited edition steelbooks released that went like wind, and too expensive anyway, and the only other option I have is the box set. I'd love to just have those 6 movies as standalone films with slips.
Biggest bummer with steelbook only releases, they typically don’t drop much in price. At least a standard release, you can pretty much count on getting it for $10-15 at some point.
You are right Ken. I think their way of limiting people to film releases, forces the collectors to buy out the more expensive options first, before they even consider the cheaper stand alone releases. I myself find it annoying to get ahold of certain films because of limited stock or availability of a title. It’s even harder being a Canadian movie collector, we don’t get a lot of these releases. I haven’t bought much this year, just due to inflated price gouging by sellers only trying to make a quick buck off the misfortune of actual collectors. A lot of this comes down to stock demand too, look at the James Cameron 4Ks for example. Some people selling Abyss for over $100, that’s friggin ridiculous.
I consider myself a collector of movies and not packaging. I never buy steelbooks, big bulky special editions, etc. I like standard releases because of price and just looks better on the shelf when all are consistent. Can't tell you how many releases I passed up because of this. The most infamous is the back to the future trilogy. Sounds like we are finally getting individual standard releases soon.
I'm not a big steelbook collector for a couple of reasons. First, I always seem to get them damaged, and secondly, slipcovers take up less space. With that said, if the steel buck has the 4K and the blu-ray. I'll get the steelbook just to have two copies of the movie.
I AGREE! I'm a collector who's NOT a fan of Steelbooks. They're exspensive, delicate (they dent & over time the art can wear-off!) & they cannot be replaced: if the pegs that hold the discs breaks, then the whole box is USELESS! I prefer replaceable plastic cases with paper artwork (& slipcovers) that can be transfered. I'm waiting for a non-steelbook copy of ANDOR Season 1. I think I can wait and see if both seasons come out together!
I like all types of packaging. Just depends on what I think looks the best. So I am 100% with you that studios should always provide options. At least a standard and a special release package.
I'm so annoyed by movie companies starting to only put out steelbooks and mediabooks and such. They probably think that physical media is dying anyways so they go all in and only bring out the more expensive versions because enthusiasts will eat it up anyways. I will get the steelbook for Taxi Driver if I have to but I personally much prefer regular amarays.
Another annoying aspect about this steelbook-only stuff is that said steelbooks are often completely sold out before they even release around where I live so it's not even feasible to get one. I really hope Taxi Driver in specific will get a standard release as it's probably been my most anticipated 4K release (I didn't get the colimbia classics collection so).
Not in this case but a nitpick I have with only steelbook releases is that the cover art can be different from the superior original poster art.
Here's why the studios are doing these releases in this way. Physical Media isn't as profitable as it used to be so there's a limited resource to produce films on discs. When they release Steel book only or slip only it's a testing ground. If enough buy you'll see a re-release later on. If not well they aren't over producing. It's also the old Disney model for their classic animation line up. Release a limited number and stop producing so you can keep the prices at full price instead of taking a loss when the price drops down.
All very good points. Another one I would like to add is the fact that pressing plants are more limited now as a result of the pandemic, which also further constrains resources further.
I prefer the standard release with a slip. The J cards on the steelbooks hide the dents. Every steelbook purchased the discs have been badly scratched.
Gee whiz ..... Count yourself lucky. Try living here in Australia ..... We have to import everything that doubles to cost on every 4k
Same here in Brazil!
I agree for us that like slipcovers over steelbooks we should have the option day 1 im thinking of selling most of my steelbooks make more room in my collection for nice shiny slips!
Hopefully, someone will see this and take the clue. Seeing a movie like Major League getting two options, while this is limited to just the one is a huge slap in the face to collectors and the film itself. No offense intended to Major League, I did buy the steelbook because I found the artwork more impressive than the standard release.
Steelbooks are made with cheap steel (probably aluminum or something worse), so they ding, dent, and scratch if you look at em the wrong way. Thats my main complaint with them. That said, standard slip covers aren't much better. They tear, come damaged, scratch, and bend just sitting on the shelf.
The best packaging imo is either the Vinegar Syndrome slip covers or the hard boxes (i.e. Arrow and Second Sight). The VS slip covers are thicker than the standard ones and much more resistant to tearing and bending.
That said, it's not the biggest deal to me. But, you never complain about anything, so I'm not sure what people are talking about there
That’s a weird complaint. My steels basically never get damaged. Idk what you people do with your stuff to have these issues
My steelbooks are forged of Valerian Steel.
I agree, the hardcovers that Second Sight does are the absolute best quality to me. But that’s not the mainstream style😂
Personally in my collection I try not to worry too much about whether theres a slipcover or if its steel or whatever. I care more about the packaging art and owning the movie itself 🤷🏻♀️
Absolutely. Stripes is a winner, and it infuriates me that that is not a stand alone 4k. I really hope they break these sets up like this and make it available outside of that set!
I agree. If they want to make a steelbook then fine. Make it limited to 12k copies or something. Then release a regular slip edition for the masses. Lots of people would want to own this. Not every wants or needs a clanky steelbook.
I've been over steelbooks for a couple years now, people got too crazy for them
As a canadian steelbooks have always been more expensive here not to mention getting ones that are US exclusive. Often we are stuck with a regular 4k case without a slip. That being said i might wait and see if taxi driver will get a 4k slip.
They probably won’t. Sadly I live in Canada too and we haven’t been getting these 4k only releases that the US get.
Gotta hold out for that kramer vs kramer 4k lol
Agreed. I'm not into steelbooks or big ass collector's editions (yes, my family is shamed) for many reasons. I'm sure this also will be a messy release like Lawrence of Arabia.
The biggest problem is that you newer know if they release another version…
… so,normal, ersion should always be an option. I have some collector editions, just because I really like it… but normally just basic 4K release is the way to go!
This has been an issue for decades. How many times do people go through their movie collection to look at all the pointless crap packed inside the case? There’s a lot to be said for the original dvd release…unless it’s the early version that requires the disc to be flipped over half way through the viewing 😅
I agree. They have the ability to release a simple slipcover and they're choosing not to. The community is better off with more choices, not fewer.
Exactly.
2 years another release
I don’t mind steelbook but would have been nice to have an option
I collect movies and, honestly, this doesn't bother me at all. Wether a movie has a slipcover, a boxset only, a steelbook edition, a barebones blu. If the movie looks great and is presented in the best way possible, that's all i care about. The slips, the extras, the different editions... that's all an added bonus. But i just want the movie to look and sound the best possible, regardless on it's packaging.
The thing with steelbooks is that they are so delicate and easy to scratch. I now put on a hard plastic cover for all steelbooks and those, in addition to added cost, are a pain to fold together get on and off. I only go for the steelbooks if I like the art better (see Major League - the slipcover version is...awful) or if those are actually an improved master of the movie (like a lot of Sony's with Dolby Vision only on the steelbook version). Honestly if companies started using their slipcovers for full art without all the banners, tags, and text covering it (like VS and some others do) those would look so much nicer.
They’ve also gotta lower the RRP for all these 4k steelbook, standard and limited editions. Here in the UK the average price for 4k Steelbooks is £25-£35. It’s absolutely outrageous.
Some are even higher and something has to give, I for one ain’t gonna keep paying silly prices like this. I’d much rather have a standard release with a slip cover if possible.
You’re absolutely right about options, there should always be a standard option. These studios are just greedy b***ards.
I hate steelbooks. They’re popular with video games to and I don’t know why. There should always be a standard edition available. Especially for a classic like Taxi Driver
I don’t care about steelbooks but I do kinda care about slipcovers. I guess I’m backwards I prefer I 4K or Blu Ray movie to have a slipcover but I dot care about steelbooks
I was one of those who bought the Columbia Classics Vol 2 just for Taxi Driver!!! I held off opening it (The blu ray is still a great edition to have) waiting for this day in case I could offload the boxset!!
You’re absolutely right I don’t like steelbooks at all honestly
What I hear you saying is, preorder the steelbook or risk what happened with Lawrence of Arabia. (That one never had a standard release after the steelbook and now it’s going for $65.)
I bought the Colombia classics set only for Taxi Driver at launch knowing a stand alone 4k will come out years later and I haven’t watched any other movie from that set till date.
Now I pre ordered this steelbook. No complains guys. Its Taxi Driver. Its worth every money. I don’t have deep pockets but some movies are just worth double or tripple or whatever dipping. Sony knows this well and will milk this movie for some long time.
I won't be surprised to see another edition soon with a box set of the same steelbook but with art cards and posters and such.
You know what would make more money for Sony? If Columbia Classics were released individually instead of limited run boxsets. It could have been their answer to Warner Bros. Archive and Paramount Presents
I agree with you i like that idea of having them release their film individually instead of a limited expensive and out of stock boxsets they should do that instead of these box sets that they release with all films in one boxset you're a genius.
Its good that its coming out buts its this behaviour that will kill physical discs faster. It just pushes people away because of the price
No, I think you're making a valid complaint - while I like the artwork on most steelbooks, I don't like the extra cost, or the delicacy of the outside of the box.
Recently bought Barb Wire from Turbine but it was steelbook only and would have preferred a regular edition.
Definitely not everyone likes steelbooks, but they know a lot of people will grudgingly buy it if there's no regular release, FOMO, and all that...
They just finally released a stand-alone version of Lawrence of Arabia in Australia, but you guessed it - it's the same steelbook edition
That’s funny you say that about steel books. I’m feeling the exact same way. Where I was a big steel book collector at one time now, I can pretty much care less about them unless it’s a movie that is sentimental to me. But I still like my slipcovers. Lol.
If the steelbook only option is a problem wasnt the box set exclusivity a bigger problem?
Its been stuck in an out of print box set for years at this point.
Keep calling them out and complaining Ken. Thank you! I totally agree with everything you said. Sony has been playing this little game too much in the last few years and gouging their customers. I wrote to Sony Home Entertainment in LA, pleading to them so that they release the standard edition of Lawrence of Arabia on 4K. They did the same trick with the Blu-ray releases some years ago, only releasing the standard edition well over one year after the 50th Anniversay Limited Collector's Edition Blu-ray box. Now they're pushing the standard release dates further away to milk their customers even more. I don't care at all for these steelbook releases that end up costing us double or more in Canada compared to the standard releases. It's shameless behavior from Sony.
4k at this point is the equivalent of collecting records…
I am one of those who don’t really want steel books unless they are the only option and I am more selective on what I do buy if steel book is the only option.
Okay hear me out…new channel name: Ken Cries and Ken Complains.
I like Ken Gripes the best.
Like Lambert in Alien. She likes complaining
The Extras issues is simply the Studios don't want to pay the Actors for any participating. This was brought by Actress Melody Anderson of Flash Gordon Fame 10 years ago. I forgot to bring this up .With everything involved with the writers strike on general issues to 6 months. So can extrapolate the Studios could careless on any Extras not being done.Now this is more contentious with Physical Media becoming a Niche Enterprise. I'm 58 Love my Physical Media. The Studios are making Billions World Wide and Don't want to pay anything. This issue ha.s been a quiet problem the Studios won't even talk About Always considering Hollywood is always looking for a way to Cheat you. That's my Assessment. Good Video 😎
This will make the collectors not support the physics media in the end. U can not put that amount of money in some releases!
I am still excited about this as long the price point is fair
This video is having massive impact on the sales of this steelbook as the the cover image makes it look like you’re saying the steelbook itself sucks! You really need to change that as this title deserves allot of respect
I think you’re being a little dramatic here.
I heard that Target will be abandoning physical media except for games
I am not a fan of steel books for a few reasons.
1. If the cover scratches or gets damaged, that's it, there is no way to fix it. WIh a regular cased version, if the case breaks, you can replace it. Even if the artwork sleeve gets damaged, there are ways to at least print out a replacement cover. This happened to me with the James Bond steelbooks they were doing back in the mid-2000s on BD. I bought like 6 of the movies they had out at the time and the covers all scratched against each other when I had put them on my shelf. I pulled them out to watch them and had paint flakes raining everywhere.
2. I've had two discs in the past crack in half when I was trying to get the disc out of a steel book tray. First time was totally my fault because I wasn't thinking how easy a disc could break when I was trying to remove it. Second time, I was very careful and it still snapped.
Now if a steelbook is my only option, fine, whatever, but I won't go out of my way to acquire one. WIth Taxi Driver, I like the movie, but not enough to spend $30+ on the 4K unless it were released as a special edition like what Arrow and Second Sight does. I've only watched my BD once in the 10 years I've owned it.
Ken, shut up! You complain too much! Just be happy we're getting it on 4k to begin with & just be happy physical media is alive & well & these studios are still supporting it!
I used to really like steelbooks. And I will still pick up a steelbook if I really like the art or I like the set it happens to be in. But I hate that moment when you get a steelbook delivered to you, and realize that there is the smallest of dents somewhere on it, or any dents whatsoever. Sometimes you can easily replace it....sometimes not. I truly prefer the slipcover editions now. Plus steelbooks are more expensive and I'm on a budget!
I actually don't like collecting steelbooks, but I'm getting the Dune part 2 stellbook just becise the regular edition does not have the Bluray, and I like having both since I have a regular bluray player in the bedroom and the 4K system is only in the living room
I’ll be getting this since I don’t have it on 4k yet. I prefer steelbooks for anniversary/special editions personally but I do prefer an option. I think they’ll probably offer a standard edition with slip but who knows.
I agree with your rant. Whilst I don’t object to the steelbook style of packaging, I certainly don’t see the point in paying the extra cost associated … it is the film I am looking to collect … not the packaging.
I am finding myself being forced into buying the premium product at premium prices just to ensure I can get my hands on a particular film I want to add to my collection. This problem is also being exacerbated by the relatively limited print runs we’re increasingly seeing, so forcing us to preorder each time to avoid missing the opportunity to acquire that film.
This is now making me start to question the viability of continuing to collect as I have to throttle back on my purchases and prioritise where I put my limited (precious) cash.
As you say, the studio strategy seems to be self destructive in that it will ensure diminishing sales as it prices itself out of a sustainable market by making everything a super top-line premium product.
I’m still seething over missing out on preorder of The Crow Steelbook … the only way to get the twin-pack version in the UK. …. And this is another case where, to best of my understanding, there is no intention for a traditional slip cover version to be released here. I guess it’s hardly surprising it sold out so early 😢
On top of all this, we have to continually suffer the frustration of wondering when/if we’re ever going to see so many back catalogue films that are so precious to us all … especially thanks to the attitude of so many bizarre complications with various rights issues.
I don’t get it …. The studios want to make money and we collectors are willing to buy product, but said studios continue to resist selling the product they have and we want !!! ….. if you scripted this story for a movie and pitched it to the studios they’d reject it as too far-fetched in favour of yet another superhero “plot”.
I’m with you on that Ken we need options 9 times out of 10 I go with the slipcover edition
I'm totally one of those people who just want the slipcover, I more get them for the content on the discs, I love the stuff like what Arrow does with the reversible covers, that's more of what I want over steel books
I'm with you, Ken. We definitely need more options. And it seems crazy to me studios sit on standalone releases of the movies in those super-expensive box sets.
i have Taxi Driver on blu ray.i will not be buying the 4k or the 8k or the steel book,at this point its getting ridiculous ,how many ways can these company's package the same tired old movies, its nothing but a money grab.lots of old movies that belong in the dollar bin being repackaged and sold for silly prices.
Thank you Ken for stating what I have been feeling about Steelbooks, yeah some look cool, but I am interested in the film itself. Just give me the movie with a great 4k transfer and the original artwork from the poster with a slip-cover edition. Steeelbooks cost more and the prices of 4k's are getting out of hand, they cost way too much these days, to the point where I'm buying fewer movies every day. I was replacing all my Blu-Ray's with 4k's because I want to own a film that is as good as a 35 mm print image-wise. I own a lot of Blu-Rays and DVD's in addition to a large number of 4k's and would love to own all my films on 4k, but because they are getting greedy I've become more selective and I definitely don't want to spend more on a steenbok which is just packaging. Even the boutiques are going overboard with the inclusion of posters, lobby cards, stickers, or whatever. It's just going to sit in the packaging on a shelf, so I don't need or want all that extra stuff so they can jack the prices up even more so. I just want the movie with a slip-cover that is resonablly priced, is that too much to ask for? Maybe if the studios and the boutique labels brought down their prices more people would be buying them, instead they are pushing this into a niche market.
Incredibly salient video and I pretty much agree with the entire thing. For the most part, I genuinely dislike steelbooks. The look, the feel, the presentation. As a collector I like my collection to look good. Shelf-friendliness and a certain amount of uniformity are big for me. I did like collecting the Lionsgate steelbooks because of their fun, gimmicky slipcovers that also looked good on a shelf. And I did do exactly what you mentioned with Fright Night.
Well, this behavior of "no options" is the norm in Germany. It's media book country over here. There's a lot of stuff coming out that I would like to buy, but the fact that 85% of the companies (including studios) decide to put stuff out on media books exclusively puts me off. I don't like the size (they're almost always DVD size...YUCK) and they are way pricier, also. If you have luck, some of the stuff will get a standard release. But even then, slip covers are not a thing in Germany :( So I find myself buying most of my stuff in the UK.
Nice to see Taxi Driver get an individual release, but it feels like they should have prioritized giving individual releases to Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, Gandhi, A League of Their Own, Jerry Maguire, and an affordable version of Lawrence of Arabia. Like, it almost feels like confirmation that those Volume 1 movies are staying out of print.
I'm 100% with you about having the choice. I collect the movies I like and want the movie. I don't care about fancy packaging, steelbooks or whatever. It really pisss me off of rebuying all the movies I like and paying 30$ - 60$ Canadian for something I already poses in HD. Studios should release a standard case for everyone and a more fancyer package for the collectors, including steelbooks. They would sell way more, no doubt about that so price would be more more reasonable for consumers.
Good topic Ken, some good,points made. Too many steel-books releases have inferior artwork designs compared to the original poster art. That’s my major gripe about them, and the over pricing. I only buy steels now that have original or better art than the slip edition.
$70 for Lawrence of Arabia steelbook at Amazon!
LMFAO!!!
That is because it is sold out at the main sellers again and only available from 3rd party sellers. It did have a reprint around September 2023.
Love the shirt, Ken! As a collector of Steelbooks for the most part, I think the studios releasing them know that it will make more money in the long run for them.
Thank you for the rant. This is what I’ve been thinking too. Just give me my slipcovers. I understand why they do it but I think they are leaving money on the table. When they release the Disney titles I hope they don’t keep going this route.
I'm a middle-of-the-road guy when it comes to steelbooks. I own some steelbooks that I really like but I also have my share of standard editions.
In this case, I will grab the steelbook as I quite like it (provided I can get it for a reasonable price in Canada). It will be a double-dip as I already own the copy that was in the Columbia box set, but c'est la vie. That said, I do think Sony should have provided a standard edition, given that the artwork already exists.
As for the people who really don't want the steelbook - they might want to hold off a bit longer to see whether there will be a Second Sight box set. 😁
Your comments are very valid. I do like steel books but only for classic or landmark movies. It’s always nice to have a collectors edition for a special movie but as you rightly say there always has to be options. Economic reasons are important too. I’d rather spend 40 odd euro in my case on 2 good movies then the same amount on a special steelbook of only one of those movies. It would be such a shame if after seeing a resurgence in physical media sales that it all gets ruined by basically greed from the studios. The golden rule of retail is always listen to your customers so it’s important that these issues are called out so well done to you. I enjoyed your video. Thank you for doing it. Greetings from Dublin in Ireland, regards Alan
I agree, Ken. I'd prefer the option to have both. Both at the same time and let us show Sony which one we want more.
A league of their own 4K ,stand alone would be a day one for me, I did get Columbia classics volume one,back when it came out, and I was extremely slow at opening anything,now I am stuck,the set is crazy expensive but I can’t think about even opening it, it is only sealed once,if you open it,half the price is gone, I would be happy for a stand alone,just to enjoy it
With the Vol IV recently out, there’s the issue of damaged or missing and even discs that don’t play properly. Sealed is all fine and well till the day you open it and voila- your missing a disc or some other BS issue bc quality control is on the wane.
After reading about all the issues on Vol IV, I had to at least visually examine the discs for those reported scratches from the Mexico pressing/packaging plant.
I have the Sony tel # and web addy to write to them if I have discovered some issues in my Columbia Sets. I have all 4 now but Vol II & III are still sealed, it’s time to open them and verify their condition and playability. Some have reports of missing data or certain information was accidentally left out when being encoded.
And the other thing about Sony that really irritates me. Is they have a back catalog of DV? D's that never made blu ray. The survivors with Robin Williams. Where the hell is that, It had d v d release only and nothing else
I don't love steelbooks as much as I used to (prefer digipacks and slipcases actually) but I still like them.
All of your criticism is worthy and valid, and something like this could be just for them to take advantage of the markup... But one thing to keep in mind is that the more options any given distributor manufacturs at once, then the more complex and/or risky the logistics can get. John Wick 4 had a ton of options because they had faith is how well it would sell... Taxi Driver is definitely a classic that a lot of people want to jump on, but they may not trust the sales history of it well enough to having too many splits in the package manufacturing of it.
Could just be greed tho. Feed the most fervent collectors first, then release a "lesser" version later to pull in the more casual collectors for a lesser price.
I am a big Steelbook fan, but I'm starting to back off collecting them and collecting new movies in general. The quality of new movies have taken a huge hit lately, the last few Marvel films have been very underwhelming and I question why I should even bother to add them to my collection physically. Classic movies is what I'm picking up nowadays. I missed the Bridge on the River Kwai Steelbook, so I may seek that out and pay more for it.
I only want the option to have the movie in perfect 4k quality… got that 3 years ago… so i am good…
That's annoying because I won't pay inflated prices for a steel book on the secondary market if it becomes scarce.
I really agree with everything you said. I do think we need to call out the studios on these things to let them know our opinions...god or bad.
For me I will get the steelbook if the price is a few dollars more. I'm not picky about which version. To me The price and the movie will determine if I buy it. Raising the prices just makes me more selective of what I purchase
I like to buy at $20 or less for the highest quality film visuals. I don't care what the case it made out of.
Steelbooks are fine… but I’m into the sustainability of my collection… Steelbooks can’t easily be switched out if the case cracks. The center hubs for Steelbooks cause unnecessary stress on the disc hub. I have feared cracking the disc just removing the disc from Steelbooks.
Give me a “slipcover” edition any day. If the case cracks, I’ll buy a new case and keep going. To each their own, though.
There should always be standard edition that does not go out of print. The problem with steelbook is scalpers buy out the stock then there's no other way to get the movie. Lionsgate does this to some of their 4K too and it is frustrating to find out there is no other way to own it except paying scalper price
I get where your coming from and i agree,most movies i would have preferred a standard case especially with Amelie, very unecessary for a steelbook
I'm glad it's finally coming outside of what I considered a weak volume 2.
Only steelbook release is ferocious behavior. We need slips !!!