Fox update

[hyperdine]

Actually, I honestly don't believe the Fox delays are due to replication issues. While I'm sure security/copy-protection is a concern, I don't think that's the whole story either. Otherwise, why would they release brand new titles and delay catalog titles? If there's any concern about piracy, it would be greater for new titles...not movies that have been out for years already in both U.S. and other markets.

So what's the real reason for the delays? I think Fox is actually making a very wise strategic move. This is solely my opinion (and not based on any insider info) but I think Fox has closely studied the current Hi-Def sales trends and have realized that what's selling right now and helping to grow the format are new titles. The catalog titles are not doing so well.

Think about it...what have been some of the best selling BD's? Casino Royale, The Departed, X-Men 3, etc. This is not just because their big flagship titles either. Look at the sales of Crank. Didn't do very well in the theaters, but it's been big on BD. Had this been a catalog title, I think it would have been a very different story.

So...my take on this, is that they're absolutely telling the truth. They've adjusted the release schedule to focus on what makes sense. Don't get me wrong...I want the catalog titles and I'm sure most people here do too. However, I don't think the market is ready for titles like Princes Bride, etc. Once BD starts to hit critical mass (maybe during the holidays) when the penetration rate is higher, I think we'll see the floodgates open.

Just my two cents...