Home Media Magazine - September 2-8, 2007 - (Page HD15) blu-ray tour Consumers can preview Disney films in high-def at these stations. Photos: Erica Mueller Berliner Studio/BEImages But the heart of the exhibit is a mini theater with hourly presentations on Blu-ray technology and high-definition in general, tying the revolutionary new technology to a continuation of Walt Disney’s legacy of imagination. The presentations begin with historical footage of Disney as the presenter talks about the famed animator’s love of technology, noting Disney was the first to add sound and dialogue to an animated movie (1928’s Steamboat Willie) and years later devoted an entire section of Disneyland (Tomorrowland) to various visions of the future. Then comes a brief recap of how highdefinition television came to be, followed by a detailed look at Blu-ray Disc, with a focus on the format’s superior interactivity — both present and planned. Ultimately, Disney Blu-ray discs will allow viewers plugged into the Internet to chat with fellow viewers and interact with filmmakers, all while watching the movie. They’ll also be able to get detailed information on, and even buy, many of the items they see in the movie. “There’s a lot of consumer confusion out there, and we want to help everyone understand this amazing new technology,” Chapek said. “It is imperative that we continue to educate and engage consumers about the advantages and exciting features that are unique to the Bluray Disc format.” Disney is one of seven studios supporting Blu-ray Disc, along with 20th Century Fox, MGM, Sony Pictures, Warner Bros., Paramount and Lionsgate. Warner and Paramount also release their films on HD DVD, while Universal releases are limited to HD DVD. September 2007 HOLLYWOOD goes HIGH-DEF 15
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