What makes a Steelbook worth the extra cost?

[jscoggins]

Originally Posted by Doughoef

Not all steelbooks are created equal. Some are more limited runs and only available for a short time. Those are the ones that will maintain or increase in value.

This applies to BDs in any type of packaging.

[octagon]

Originally Posted by Bojado71

Wondering what makes Steelbooks worth the extra cost? Is it mostly just having a metal case versus plastic?

Some of them look really cool.

[HDMe]

It depends on what the "extra cost" is...

Sometimes the steelbooks (or digibooks or whatever) are the same or cheaper than other options.

Sometimes they cost more in that you have to pay full price vs a discounted price on standard packaging.

I haven't paid big money for an import steelbook or one that is out-of-production, though.

I try and get them when they come out if I want them... and if I miss them, then I miss them.

[DJ KNIGHT XIII]

For me it's all about being able to display them in my mini theatre room, they really come alive when they are on proper displays stands.

[Villiam Hayes]

Originally Posted by Petra_Kalbrain

It's not a specific comparison. I'm speaking in general terms. Porsche definitely uses many of the same parts as low-medium cars. They just mark up the price for the namesake. Not ALL parts are the same. HOWEVER, my point is that we are paying steelbook premiums for the same functionality product in a shinier outer layer.

What?the German car is better in every way to a low/medium car,that's why they are more expensive......the namesake is because they build top of the range quality cars!

Anyway....back to steelbooks.

[Petra_Kalbrain]

Originally Posted by Villiam Hayes

What?the German car is better in every way to a low/medium car,that's why they are more expensive......the namesake is because they build top of the range quality cars!

Anyway....back to steelbooks.

Tell me how you feel about Monster cables.

[deanmotley]

Originally Posted by SethRex

In my honest opinion, nothing. Steelbooks are just a metal casing implied as being bonus and usually with more fancy cover art. But it's usually sold at the same or similar prices to normal cases.

Agreed,get them on release day and in most cases,they cost the same as the regular edition,but much sexier ;-)

[wvuwhat]

Originally Posted by Thomas Irwin

You could make the same analogies to coffee, but really, isn't it all just about personal preference and satisfaction? Does it really amount to anything more than a "hill of beans?" Unless of course you're talking about the "Porsche" of coffee, Kopi Luwak, that's a "whole different animal", so to speak. And if you're not familiar with that particular "flavor", here's an enlightening read to be enjoyed with your next cup of joe:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kopi_Luwak

Says a lot about people's individual tastes, huh?

I learned about Kopi Luwak in "The Bucket List."

[Icemouth]

The internet, where nothing is ever complete without a random car comparison.

[Bobsays]

Why does anyone collect anything? Because it's fun. Because it's pretty. Maybe I'm shallow.

[500_Days_of_Night]

For me, the artwork is a big factor. Regular releases, especially older films, have some of the worst artwork imaginable. As an example, Black Rain... just generic close ups of Michael Douglas and Andy Garcia. But the German steelbook has the original poster artwork, which I love.

Others are just flat out awesome looking like the Japanese steelbook of Lockout and the French steelbook of Ninja Assassin.

[rickah88]

Personal preference. Pretty much as simple as that.

[Bojado71]

Originally Posted by 500_Days_of_Night

For me, the artwork is a big factor. Regular releases, especially older films, have some of the worst artwork imaginable. As an example, Black Rain... just generic close ups of Michael Douglas and Andy Garcia. But the German steelbook has the original poster artwork, which I love.

Others are just flat out awesome looking like the Japanese steelbook of Lockout and the French steelbook of Ninja Assassin.

Great example on Black Rain. Steelbook art cover is much nicer.

[JimDiGriz]

Just thought of something from Kingdom of Heaven -

the bit where he asks Saladin whether Jerusalem is worth it etc...

Saladin replies "nothing......and everything!"

[Taikero]

What makes a Steelbook worth it for me:

- Excellent artwork, including new or novel interpretations or exclusive artwork.
- More attractive packaging that is sturdier.
- (Exclusives only) Add-ins or bonus items that are for fans.
- Extra content (at times) that is included (for example, the Sucker Punch Steelbook includes the Soundtrack for the film in a great package)
- Displayability. Who wants to display an amaray or even most slipcovers? Steelbooks on the other hand are usually admirable, even for those who don't collect.


Ultimately Steelbooks are a way for me to appreciate film above and beyond what's on the screen. Even when the television isn't on I can look at a great Steelbook and feel appreciation for the talent and energy that was poured into that film so people worldwide could enjoy it. A Steelbook is perhaps the best way to economically showcase such fluid works of art.

[Packerfan75]

Originally Posted by Bojado71

Wondering what makes Steelbooks worth the extra cost? Is it mostly just having a metal case versus plastic?

Nothing. It's decorative personal preference at best. Most owners will only be seeing the spine anyway.

[Optimus]

I like metal versions of things.

[ScarredLungs]

Originally Posted by rickah88

Personal preference. Pretty much as simple as that.

Yep.

[Thomas Irwin]

Because if the movie stinks you're still left with a real nice cigar tin.

vintage_henri_wintermans_cafe_creme_cigar_tin_box_collector_souvenir_70a97d70.jpg

Who wants to talk films anyhow, the packaging is where it's at. I learned that here... I think it was in the Possession thread.

[bradipolpo]

Originally Posted by Bojado71

Is it mostly just having a metal case versus plastic?

yep