The uselessness of dual layer

[Chris Beveridge]

For anyone who has been following a number of threads elsewhere recently, is it just me or do many of those who aren't actively purchasing BD releases seem to have changed their meme recently? With so many dual layered BD discs being announced, including titles from Warner that just barely go over the 25 mark, dual layer is being denounced as useless and just for extras.

The previous meme, as most recall, alternated between dual layer being science fiction, incredibly rare, for really long movies only and probably a few other things. Now they don't mean anything at all because Warner is going to just put 30gb HD DVD releases on there.

There are two things to understand about this. First, it means that dual-format companies aren't quite so restricted in releasing on BD in that they don't have to sacrifice on extras or audio. They can just be like EA Games and port to both and be done with it. Even if it's minimal, it provides balance.

The more important thing is that dual layer will give the single-format companies a chance to really shine. Since they will NOT be restricted to a 30gb limit they can go much bigger and grander. Fox, Sony, Disney and independents doing BD only will be able to work on their releases without worry of making sure they can fit on both formats. Just like with video games, WB, Paramount will be reliable releases on both formats. But just like MS, Sony and Nintendo, "first party games" will be the ones that will be the key draws to the format.

Right now, HD DVD has key draws of Universal titles and WB titles with IME. Once November hits and Fox provides its key draws, Sony gets a few more announcements out and Disney gets rolling, we're going to be in a treasure of riches.

I'm just excited and get more so each day.