PIT STOP on Blu-ray: Arrow Video vs Code Red

[Sigmund100]

I shared my opinion on a Code Red thread comparing the two versions of Pit Stop on Blu-ray (both being released in June, one by Arrow Video, the other by Code Red) and another member was being a jerk about me giving my opinion about Arrow's version on Code Red's thread (even though other people had mentioned Arrow's version countless times). None the less, I wanted to start this thread so people can feel free to discuss the pros and cons of BOTH versions. DISCUSS...

[JoeBuck]

Originally Posted by Sigmund100

I shared my opinion on a Code Red thread comparing the two versions of Pit Stop on Blu-ray (both being released in June, one by Arrow Video, the other by Code Red) and another member was being a jerk about me giving my opinion about Arrow's version on Code Red's thread (even though other people had mentioned Arrow's version countless times). None the less, I wanted to start this thread so people can feel free to discuss the pros and cons of BOTH versions. DISCUSS...

It'll be pretty hard to tell until Code Red releases their version, but I dont see how Arrow could top a transfer from the original negative.
They might get the leg up on features and packaging though, but I guess only time will tell.

[Blu Titan]

I will be buying the Code Red version which is derived from the original negatives. I own other Code Red titles and I am very pleased with their presentation. I own many Arrow titles, but I rather support the smaller label in this case. Arrow releases both in the UK and USA and their US releases are more expensive with a MSRP of $39.99. However, Arrow's MSRP for their Pit Stop US version is $29.99. The market is not big enough for two releases of the same title.

Looks to me like the big boy is picking on the little guy? Something does not seem right....this is the first time that a Blu-ray title has received North American releases, at around the same time, from two different labels.

The above is my personal opinion and not the opinion or an endorsement from this site .

[HorrorBlu]

I was initially curious as I've loved everything I've seen from Jack Hill, but all the behind-the-scenes drama has been pretty off-putting. I kind of lost interest.

I will wait for reviews, if I pick up either one at all.

[Sigmund100]

Truth be told... I ain't broke and I like special features. I'm buying the Arrow Version first and if the reviews on the Code Red version are strong in regards to their transfer, then I'll pick their version up too when it's on sale. I figure if I can get the Arrow version for $18.99 and then get lucky and pick up the Code Red version for $12 bucks (or in that range), then for a total of around $30 I'll have ALL of the versions. I'll stick 'em in one case and be done with it.

I'm new to this whole posting thing here and I didn't mean to get defensive on the Code Red thread, but I was really just trying to share an opinion. Truth be told I'm glad you "scrubbed" that thread. I understand that some people complain about Arrow's business practices and that Code Red deserves support. But, for me, bottom line is I'm glad there's two releases here for this one. Competition is good. With competition comes lower prices and better quality. Let the best man win.

[frakking toaster]

I have every release from both labels so the collector in me wants to buy both. I might just start with arrow cause of the fancy packaging and booklet.

[TripleHBK]

Originally Posted by Sigmund100

Truth be told... I ain't broke and I like special features. I'm buying the Arrow Version first and if the reviews on the Code Red version are strong in regards to their transfer, then I'll pick their version up too when it's on sale. I figure if I can get the Arrow version for $18.99 and then get lucky and pick up the Code Red version for $12 bucks (or in that range), then for a total of around $30 I'll have ALL of the versions. I'll stick 'em in one case and be done with it.

I'm new to this whole posting thing here and I didn't mean to get defensive on the Code Red thread, but I was really just trying to share an opinion. Truth be told I'm glad you "scrubbed" that thread. I understand that some people complain about Arrow's business practices and that Code Red deserves support. But, for me, bottom line is I'm glad there's two releases here for this one. Competition is good. With competition comes lower prices and better quality. Let the best man win.

Normally I'd agree with you, but when one side is a one man operation that basically operates in or near the Red as is, then in this case I disagree. Arrow has more than enough income and resources to sit on their release and wait for a good 6-12 months before releasing it. They likely wouldn't lose much if any sales, as they would have the benefit of worldwide distribution plus the more complete package in terms of special features and packaging. As it stands I agree with Blu Titan. This was an ******* move by a company that was simply looking to throw there weight around. Considering all the other films they have access to, there is simply no reason that this one needed to be released in direct competition to Code Red's release.

[Kriztoffer Swank]

I'll wait and see. Scanning from the OCN should give Code Red the leg up, but Arrow has a fantastic compressionist on their side. What it boils down to for me is the best video presentation, and I won't know that till close to or after release when reviews and screencaps start surfacing.

Then again, unless it's offered through Screen Archives or something, CR's might be unobtainable for most, making Arrow's the default option.

[noirjunkie]

I prefer the release with more special features, so I'm going with Arrow. For everyone saying that Arrow is pulling some jerk move by releasing it at the same time as Code Red: we don't know all the facts, and given that reality, it's pretty pointless to argue over who is in the right and who is in the wrong.

I'm also buying from Arrow because Code Red's business practices, and his frequently antagonistic postings on this board, are off-putting. When I ask an honest, respectful question about a questionable claim he made, I don't need to deal with him responding by ignoring my question and swearing at me.

[Sigmund100]

Originally Posted by TripleHBK

Normally I'd agree with you, but when one side is a one man operation that basically operates in or near the Red as is, then in this case I disagree. Arrow has more than enough income and resources to sit on their release and wait for a good 6-12 months before releasing it. They likely wouldn't lose much if any sales, as they would have the benefit of worldwide distribution plus the more complete package in terms of special features and packaging. As it stands I agree with Blu Titan. This was an ******* move by a company that was simply looking to throw there weight around. Considering all the other films they have access to, there is simply no reason that this one needed to be released in direct competition to Code Red's release.

I didn't really know all of this stuff (one man operation vs big corporate behemoth). I just buy the movies, but I don't know these people personally behind it and I really don't have time to do the research. But I harmlessly posted my opinion on the two releases on the other thread and the Code Red guy, like, insults me. If you own a company and you live hand to mouth on these releases, they why be rude. I'd have more respect if he just explained exactly what you just posted. I totally understand what you are saying though. Thanks for posting.

[Blu Titan]

Originally Posted by noirjunkie

I prefer the release with more special features, so I'm going with Arrow. For everyone saying that Arrow is pulling some jerk move by releasing it at the same time as Code Red: we don't know all the facts, and given that reality, it's pretty pointless to argue over who is in the right and who is in the wrong.

I'm also buying from Arrow because Code Red's business practices, and his frequently antagonistic postings on this board, are off-putting. When I ask an honest, respectful question about a questionable claim he made, I don't need to deal with him responding by ignoring my question and swearing at me.

If you feel that why...it is your right. Just don't post in his thread in that case. The assumptions I made in my post are reasonable given what little we know and the entire point of this thread is to discuss both releases....first time we have a situation like this.

[Mike UFC]

Originally Posted by Kriztoffer Swank

Then again, unless it's offered through Screen Archives or something, CR's might be unobtainable for most, making Arrow's the default option.

Code Red teamed up with Kino for this release. You can order this off of Amazon right now for $22.99 (Arrow's is $18.99).

EDIT: Also, I'm getting the CR version. Supporting Bill all the way.

[thecalm_7]

I have no preference in brand, but KINO releases have often been inferior to those of Arrow (given the same title). So, even though CR and KINO are joining forces, past issues with the company make it that much easier to go with Arrow.
KINO in 2014 gave several audio sync issues and never took responsibility. I feel they also burned people in the seperation of Black Sunday/Black Sabbath cuts being seperated into 4 seperate releases vs Arrow's dual cuts of both.
Again, nothing against CR, aside for typical hunting of the product as it isnt put out in typical fashion.

Arrow is preordered in my case, but as with all orders, they can be cancelled.

[Blu Titan]

Originally Posted by thecalm_7

I have no preference in brand, but KINO releases have often been inferior to those of Arrow (given the same title). So, even though CR and KINO are joining forces, past issues with the company make it that much easier to go with Arrow.
KINO in 2014 gave several audio sync issues and never took responsibility. I feel they also burned people in the seperation of Black Sunday/Black Sabbath cuts being seperated into 4 seperate releases vs Arrow's dual cuts of both.
Again, nothing against CR, aside for typical hunting of the product as it isnt put out in typical fashion.

Kino is just handling the distribution...Pit Stop is a Code Red release with Code Red on the spine and a Code Red collection number .

[themp3000]

I've already got the UK disc, which this will simply be a exact match of minus the UK ratings logo everywhere and PAL DVD (it's NTSC on the US release). That BD is also region free, so the option to have it on BD has been available for some time. Managed to snag it from the last Arrow flash sale for about $15 usd shipped. I find the restoration absolutely stunning and the extras are yummy. I have no doubt CR's will look great as well but I'm not one to double dip on titles. I'm pretty content with what I've got. I'll still gladly support CR through other titles through both the cartel site and SAE.

[Clark Kent]

Not all film scans are created equal. I haven't seen either BD yet but it's possible a poor transfer from the negative wouldn't match a more sophisticated scan from dupe elements. The results vary based on condition of the negative and other factors.

[MifuneFan]

Originally Posted by themp3000

I've already got the UK disc, which this will simply be a exact match of minus the UK ratings logo everywhere and PAL DVD (it's NTSC on the US release). That BD is also region free, so the option to have it on BD has been available for some time. Managed to snag it from the last Arrow flash sale for about $15 usd shipped. I find the restoration absolutely stunning and the extras are yummy. I have no doubt CR's will look great as well but I'm not one to double dip on titles. I'm pretty content with what I've got. I'll still gladly support CR through other titles through both the cartel site and SAE.

It'll be worse even, as the director commentary will not be included in the US release

[babybreese]

Not buying either, I already have the Arrow UK and while its a done conclusion the Code Red will look nicer, I have already seen the film and there are 100's if not 1000's of film's I'd rather watch twice. Never mind paying for it twice

[HorrorBlu]

Originally Posted by TripleHBK

Arrow has more than enough income and resources to sit on their release and wait for a good 6-12 months before releasing it. They likely wouldn't lose much if any sales, as they would have the benefit of worldwide distribution plus the more complete package in terms of special features and packaging. As it stands I agree with Blu Titan. This was an ******* move by a company that was simply looking to throw there weight around. Considering all the other films they have access to, there is simply no reason that this one needed to be released in direct competition to Code Red's release.

To be fair, Arrow announced the title with artwork and a street date, then hours later that same day Code Red announced their version with the same street date, seemingly out of spite. You have it backwards. Arrow was just doing their thing, and Code Red is the one that put themselves in direct competition.

If Arrow genuinely has the rights to release it here (not saying they do, I have no idea who does), then there's absolutely no reason for them to "sit on their release" and wait 6 - 12 months. That makes absolutely zero sense. They already had their release together, so I highly doubt their intention was to "throw their weight around" and destroy Code Red. If anyone is to blame for the competing street dates, it's Code Red.

[MifuneFan]

Originally Posted by HorrorBlu

To be fair, Arrow announced the title with artwork and a street date, then hours later that same day Code Red announced their version with the same street date, seemingly out of spite. You have it backwards. Arrow was just doing their thing, and Code Red is the one that put themselves in direct competition.

If Arrow genuinely has the rights to release it here (not saying they do, I have no idea who does), then there's absolutely no reason for them to "sit on their release" and wait 6 - 12 months. That makes absolutely zero sense. They already had their release together, so I highly doubt their intention was to "throw their weight around" and destroy Code Red. If anyone is to blame for the competing street dates, it's Code Red.

Correct. I do have to wonder why CR hadn't announced it before Arrow announced theirs