Age Group | © MCMLXXIV |
Video Likes | It may sound strange, but I like films that actually fill the entire screen of my 16x9 television, as I get more of a feeling that I am in a cinema. Everything in a widescreen format must be 16x9 enhanced. |
Video Dislikes | Given the above, I also abhor any loss of the original image if the film is cut down from the correct theatrical aspect ratio. I despise grain, aliasing and poor MPEG compression resulting in artefacts. |
Audio Likes | Clear, decipherable dialogue synchronised with the on-screen action, constant yet natural ambient sounds, rich and dynamic musical scores that share the sound space with the rest of the soundtrack without dominating it, and clean, crisp usage of all of the discrete surround channels available, including use (but not overuse) of the subwoofer. DTS or Dolby Digital is fine, as long as it measures up. |
Audio Dislikes | The opposite of anything above. |
Favourite DVDs | Cliffhanger (just for the helicopter at the beginning), Gladiator (for an exemplary DTS soundtrack), Aliens, The Whole Nine Yards. |
Least Favourite DVDs | Demolition Man (Pizza Hut?), U.S. Marshals (where is my 5.1 mix?), Starship Troopers (because I hate flippers) and The Postman (possibly the worst film of all time). |
Most Eagerly Awaited DVDs | Back to the Future 1,2 and 3, True Lies, The Last of the Mohicans, The Indiana Jones films and of course Star Wars 1-6 (but I'd prefer 4,5 & 6 first thanks). |
Titanic | OK film with a limited replay factor (unless you are my wife!). Widescreen and no 16x9 enhancement = no DVD purchase (at least for this film). |
The Matrix | A thoroughly enjoyable film, just don't take it too seriously. Great DVD. |
Terminator 2 | Can't wait to get the T2:Ultimate Edition in Region 4 (until then I will live with the R1 version). Great music, great sound, groundbreaking special effects for its time. Landmark film. |
Star Wars | Like many others I grew up on these films. I think Mr. Lucas ruined the Special Edition Episode IV with the whole Han/Greedo thing, but I'll forgive him as long as he doesn't screw up Episode II. Can't wait for the DVDs. |
Godzilla | If there is a film that shouldn't be taken seriously, this is it (come on - it is a film about a giant lizard after all!). I enjoyed it as a summer popcorn flick but don't have the DVD yet (I'll keep looking in those bargain bins!). |
Independence Day | I think the R4 DVD's Director's Cut of this film helps to bring more substance to a lacking storyline. I can't stand the American flag-waving, but at the end of the day I enjoyed it nonetheless. |
DVD Player | Pioneer DV-535 , using S-Video output |
Display | Loewe Xelos 5381ZW . Calibrated with Video Essentials/Ultimate DVD Platinum. This display device is 16x9 capable. |
Audio Decoder | Built in to amplifier/receiver . Calibrated with Video Essentials/Ultimate DVD Platinum. |
Amplification | Sony STR-DB1070 |
Speakers | Energy eXL-16 left/right front speakers; Energy eXL-C centre speaker; Energy eXL-R left/right rear speakers; Wharfedale SW-12 Subwoofer |
1. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001) | 2. Gladiator: Deluxe Collector's Edition (2000) | 3. The Matrix (1999) | 4. Shrek (2001) | 5. True Lies (1994) |
6. The Whole Nine Yards (2000) | 7. Alien: Legacy (Box Set) (2000) | 8. A Bug's Life (1998) | 9. Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within: Collector's Edition (2001) | 10. Moulin Rouge: Special Edition (2001) |