Blu Ray discs have revolutionized the home entertainment industry. These discs offer a superior viewing experience compared to DVDs and other formats, with their high-definition video and audio quality. But what really sets Blu Ray apart from other formats is the wealth of special features that come with it. In this article, we will explore the world of Blu Ray special features and what makes them so exciting.
What Are Blu Ray Special Features?
Blu Ray special features are additional content that comes with the main feature film. These features can include behind-the-scenes documentaries, audio commentaries, deleted scenes, making-of featurettes, and much more. Special features are designed to give viewers a deeper understanding of the film and the filmmaking process.
Why Are Blu Ray Special Features Important?
Blu Ray special features are important because they provide a more immersive and engaging viewing experience. They allow viewers to learn more about the film and the people who made it. Special features can also provide insight into the creative process, revealing how certain scenes were shot and edited.
In addition, special features can add value to a Blu Ray disc, making it more appealing to collectors and film enthusiasts. For example, a limited edition Blu Ray set with exclusive special features can become a highly sought-after item.
Types of Blu Ray Special Features
Blu Ray special features come in many different forms. Here are some of the most common types of special features that you might find on a Blu Ray disc:
Audio Commentaries
Audio commentaries are recordings of filmmakers, actors, or other experts discussing the film as it plays. These commentaries can provide insight into the creative process and reveal interesting tidbits about the making of the film. Some commentaries are funny and lighthearted, while others are more serious and analytical.
Behind-the-Scenes Documentaries
Behind-the-scenes documentaries are a popular type of special feature. These documentaries take viewers behind the scenes of the film, showing how it was made and giving viewers a glimpse into the filmmaking process. These documentaries can be fascinating and provide a lot of insight into the creative process.
Deleted Scenes
Deleted scenes are scenes that were filmed but didn't make it into the final cut of the film. These scenes can provide additional context or character development that was cut for time or pacing. Deleted scenes are often included as special features on Blu Ray discs.
Making-of Featurettes
Making-of featurettes are short documentaries that focus on specific aspects of the filmmaking process. For example, a featurette might focus on the special effects or the costume design. These featurettes can be informative and provide a lot of insight into the creative process.
Interviews
Interviews with the cast and crew can be a great way to learn more about the film and the people who made it. These interviews can be conducted on set or after the film has been completed. They can be insightful and provide a lot of behind-the-scenes information.
Examples of Great Blu Ray Special Features
Here are some examples of great Blu Ray special features that you might want to check out:
The Lord of the Rings Extended Editions
The extended editions of The Lord of the Rings trilogy are considered to be some of the best Blu Ray special features ever produced. These discs include hours of behind-the-scenes documentaries, audio commentaries, and deleted scenes. They provide a fascinating look into the making of these epic films.
Alien Anthology
The Alien Anthology Blu Ray set includes all four Alien films, along with hours of special features. These features include behind-the-scenes documentaries, audio commentaries, and making-of featurettes. The set also includes a collectible book and art cards.
Blade Runner 2049
The Blade Runner 2049 Blu Ray disc includes several special features, including a behind-the-scenes documentary and three short films that take place in the Blade Runner universe. These special features provide a lot of insight into the making of the film and the world it takes place in.
The Avengers
The Avengers Blu Ray disc includes a feature-length documentary called "Assembling the Avengers." This documentary takes viewers behind the scenes of the film, showing how the cast and crew came together to create this epic superhero movie. The disc also includes deleted scenes, audio commentaries, and a gag reel.
How to Choose the Best Blu Ray Special Features
With so many Blu Ray special features available, it can be overwhelming to choose which ones to watch. Here are some tips for selecting the best special features:
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Look for features that interest you: If you're a fan of special effects, look for making-of featurettes that focus on the special effects. If you're interested in the cast, look for interviews with the actors.
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Check out reviews: Before purchasing a Blu Ray disc, check out reviews online to see what special features are included and whether they are worth watching.
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Consider the value: Some Blu Ray sets include a lot of special features, while others only include a few. Consider the value of the set and whether the special features are worth the extra cost.
Conclusion
Blu Ray special features are an important part of the home entertainment experience. They provide a more immersive and engaging viewing experience, giving viewers a deeper understanding of the film and the people who made it. With so many great special features available, Blu Ray discs are a must-have for film enthusiasts and collectors. By following the tips in this guide, you can choose the best special features to enhance your viewing experience.