The Elephant Man (1980)

[cgpublic]

Originally Posted by Gacivory

As I’ve learned this year, some people will never change their ways or admit they are wrong.

Is it really a question of right or wrong, or is it a case of where what some people want, i.e., Criterion to begin releasing UHD discs, is not aligned what Criterion appears to believe is the future, i.e., Blu-ray for physical media and a streaming channel.

As a fan of Criterion and UHD, I would prefer if they could find a way to release UHD discs, maintain their existing customer base/sales for non-UHD discs, and grow their streaming channel with 4K HDR availability.

Objectively, I don't believe that's possible.

Once they open the door to UHD, it creates all types of problems for their customer base. Some, who are completists and have stuck with DVD and/or Blu, may simply stop buying.

Others, who are charter subscribers of CC, may question continuing with the channel if Criterion begins releasing UHD discs and not matching CC with 4K HDR content.

Is 4K UHD possible with Criterion physical/on CC given present licenses? Will some licensor's refuse to license 4K HDR and keep those titles for their proprietary streaming channel?

The above is just the tip of the iceberg.

What we do know is that as far as UHD is concerned, there's no money in it for the overwhelming number of titles. Don't believe me? Take a peek at what most UHDs are selling for and tell me if they command a premium over Blu-ray.

One should never conflate what one wants from what is right for all concerned, especially for those who are taking the risk.