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Barry Evil

11-01-2003, 17:26

Korean Movie region comparisons

To accompany the <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=72992"> Korean Movie review thread</a>, this thread is designed to serve as a repository for region comparisons of Korean films. This first post will serve as an index with links to the different films covered in the thread.

<a href="http://www.dvdtimes.co.uk/index.cgi?page=Feature&id=62" target="_blank">Discovering Korean Cinema</a>

For information about exclusive Korean discs of non-Korean films, there is a seperate <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=141088&highlight=korean">thread</a>.

If anyone has any DVDs of Korean movies, please post the specs and your comments here and I will collate the information to form a comparison. HK discs are of particular interest because information on these is hard to come by.

<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2084839#post2084839">A.F.R.I.K.A.</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">Ardor</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2085046#post2085046">Art Museum By The Zoo</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2033567#post2033567">Attack The Gas Station</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">Baby Alone</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">Bad Guy</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2253215#post2253215">Barking Dogs Never Bite</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=1970527#post1970527">Bichunmoo</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">Bizzare Love Triangle</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2777341#post2777341">Bungee Jumping OF Their Own</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">Chiwaseon</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=1967733#post1967733">Christmas In August</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">Conduct Zero a.k.a. No Manners</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">A Day</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2011110#post2011110">Ditto</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=1975790#post1975790">Failan</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2011280#post2011280">Friend</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2030852#post2030852">Green Fish</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">H</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=1981082#post1981082">Harmonium In My Memory</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">The Isle</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2519670#post2519670">The Foul King</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">Jail Breakers</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">Kick The Moon</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2030852#post2030852">Love Wind, Love Song</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">Madeleine</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=1968567#post1968567">Il Mare</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137911#post2137911">Marriage Is A Crazy Thing a.k.a. Crazy Marriage</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=1966821#post1966821">Memento Mori</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=1969405#post1969405">Musa</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">My Heart a.k.a. Affection</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">My Old Sweetheart</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=1967548#post1967548">My Sassy Girl</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2638152#post2638152">My Tutor Friend</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2116061#post2116061">My Wife Is A Gangster</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">Nabi</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2030852#post2030852">No. 3</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2221705#post2221705">Nowhere To Hide</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">Oasis
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=1975957#post1975957">One Fine Spring Day</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">On The Occasion Of Remembering The Turning Gate</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">Over The Rainbow</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">The Power OF Kangwon Province</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">The Quiet Family</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">Ray Bang</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2393670#post2393670">The Ring Virus</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">Saving My Hubby
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">Sex Is Zero</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=1966305#post1966305">Shiri</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2638339#post2638339">Take Care Of My Cat</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2085856#post2085856">Volcano High</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">Wanee and Junah</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2085513#post2085513">The Way Home</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">Wet Dreams</a>
<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2137982#post2137982">YMCA Baseball Team</a>

Korean Suppliers

For information about Korean DVD suppliers, there is a <a href="http://www.dvdtimes.co.uk/index.cgi?page=Feature&id=53&story=3862" target="_blank">feature</a> on DVD Times and a <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=622240#post622240" target="_blank">thread</a> in the Suppliers Forum.

Korean Movie Links

Some links to sites with useful news, info or reviews.

<a href="http://www.koreanfilm.org/" target="_blank">Darcy's Korean Film Page</a>
<a href="http://www.koreancinemahouse.tk/" target="_blank">Korean Cinema House</a>
<a href="http://www.koreanfilm.org/weekly/index.htm" target="_blank">Korean Film Weekly</a>
<a href="http://www.kfccinema.com/reviews/other/korea.html" target="_blank">Kung Fu Cult Cinema</a>
<a href="http://www.mediacircus.net/movrev.html" target="_blank">Mediacircus</a>

Barry Evil

11-01-2003, 17:29

Shiri

<a href="http://www.dvdtimes.co.uk/index.cgi?page=Review&id=247&story=2095" target="_blank">Review</a>

Columbia-Tristar US R1 (anamorphic NTSC, Korean DD5.1, English dub) £15

Bitwin Korean R0 (2 discs, anamorphic NTSC, DTS, DD5.1) £16

Edko HK R3 (non-anamorphic NTSC, DTS, DD5.1) £12

The US release has the best transfer and the distinct advantage of subtitled extras. The region-free Korean edition features superior DTS sound but the transfer is quite grainy.

There is a forthcoming Finnish release from World Wide Cinema/Future Film, but at present the specs and subtitle options on this release are unknown. Metro Tartan have bought the UK rights so we should be seeing a release from them at some point in the future.

Barry Evil

11-01-2003, 19:00

Memento Mori

<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=1706271#post1706271">Review</a>

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/spectrummori.jpg" width="100" height="141">

Spectrum Korean R0 (Anamorphic NTSC, Korean DD5.1) approx. £12

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/meiahmori.jpg" width="100" height="137">

Mei Ah HK R0 (Fullscreen NTSC, Korean DD2.0) approx. £6

The Hong Kong version is a full-screen pan-and-scan edition and is to be avoided. The Korean ediiton has a decent anamorphic transfer and DD5.1 soundtrack.

There are no known forthcoming releases.

Ono

11-01-2003, 21:02

My Sassy Girl (Yupki Girl)

http://www.iam.ono.btinternet.co.uk/dvdforums/sassyhk.jpg
Edko Hong Kong R3: (Anamorphic 1.85:1, NTSC, Korean http://www.iam.ono.btinternet.co.uk/dvdforums/, Korean & Cantonese http://www.iam.ono.btinternet.co.uk/dvdforums/dd.gif, 2-discs) - approx £15.
http://www.iam.ono.btinternet.co.uk/dvdforums/sassydc.jpg
Starmax Korean R3: ( Anamorphic 1.85:1, NTSC, Korean http://www.iam.ono.btinternet.co.uk/dvdforums/, 2-discs) - approx £18.
http://www.iam.ono.btinternet.co.uk/dvdforums/sassyle.jpg
Starmax Korean Limited Edition R3: (Anamorphic 1.85:1, NTSC, Korean http://www.iam.ono.btinternet.co.uk/dvdforums/dts.gif, Korean http://www.iam.ono.btinternet.co.uk/dvdforums/dd.gif, 2-discs + Heart shaped CD Single + Calender Cards) - approx £25 (Limited run of 2003 copies only)

NOTES

The Edko release is the Theatrical Version which runs about 14 mins less than the Director's Cut. The missing scenes are included as deleted scences.

Both Starmax releases are the Director's Cut.

There was a limited edition Tin version of the Starmax Korean R3 but this is now OOP and rare.

An Egg Timer Deluxe edition was also released in Taiwan/Hong Kong which comes with a collectable "time egg" and a gift package with a mobile phone collar strap, a mobile phone bag and a bag of candy! This is FULL SCREEN only and should be avoided.

The Starmax releases use Descriptive Text* subtitles which some people may find annoying. The Edko release uses normal subtitles.

VERDICT

The Starmax Korean Limited Edition R3 is the edition to go for but only 2003 of them were produced and many suppliers have sold out. I personally prefer to watch the Edko release because of the subtitles but not many of my esteemed Sassy Girl lovers agree with me citing the Director's Cut to be the definitive version to watch. I have all three versions. :D

* Descriptive Text: similar to reading a screenplay where the name of the person speaking is also shown on screen.

Barry Evil

11-01-2003, 21:59

Christmas In August

<a href="http://www.dvdtimes.co.uk/index.cgi?page=Feature&id=63&story=4088" target="_blank">Review</a>

Korean R0 (Anamorphic NTSC, Korean DD2.0) approx. £15

Edko HK R0 (Non-anamorphic letterbox NTSC, Korean DD5.1) approx. £12

The Korean version wins for the anamorpic transfer. The film will benefit little from the DD5.1 on the HK edition. Initial copies of the Korean edition came with an OST CD but this has now sold out.

kcxdev

12-01-2003, 00:51

Il Mare<TABLE border=0 cols=3><TR><TD width=110>Release</TD><TD width=325>Korean Spectrum R3</TD><TD>Hong Kong Edko R3</TD></TR><TR><TD valign=top>Cover:</TD><TD>http://www.kcxdev.dsl.pipex.com/pics/Korean%20Movies/ilmarekor.jpg</TD><TD>http://www.kcxdev.dsl.pipex.com/pics/Korean%20Movies/ilmarehk.jpg</TD></TR><TR><TD>Video:</TD><TD>NTSC 1.85:1 non-anamorphic</TD><TD>NTSC 1.85:1 non-anamorphic</TD></TR><TD>Audio:</TD><TD>Korean Dolby Digital 5.1, Dolby Digital 2.0</TD><TD>Korean Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS</TD></TR><TD>Subtitles:</TD><TD>English</TD><TD>Traditional Chinese, English</TD></TR><TD valign=top>Extras:</TD><TD>Cast & Crew Information
Filmographies
Trailer
Teaser
Main theme music
Music Video
</TD><TD>Cast & Crew Information
Trailer
Teaser
Hong Kong TV spot
Photo gallery
Music Video</TD></TR><TR><TD>Price (approx):</TD><TD>£12</TD><TD>£14</TD></TR>
</TABLE>
Notes:
Due to bad mastering the Korean Spectrum DVD suffers from wrong aspect ratio on a 4:3 TV and you need to set your dvd player to 16:9. Both releases suffer from subtitling being cut off in certain scenes, but the HK Edko release does fare a bit better. Differences in picture quality is marginal but most prefer the HK Edko release.

There is also a Japanese (http://www.kcxdev.dsl.pipex.com/pics/Korean%20Movies/ilmarejap.jpg) (Shochiku) release of this with a superior anamorphic picture but no english subtitles.

HK DVD Times Review (ColinP) (http://www.dvdtimes.co.uk/index.cgi?page=Review&id=678&story=2866) | Korean Movie Thread Review (Cirrus888) (http://www.thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=1186534#post1186534)

Barry Evil

12-01-2003, 11:05

Musa

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/cjmusa.jpg" width="100" height="143">

CJ Entertainment Korean R3 (2 discs, 2.35:1 anamorphic NTSC, Korean DD5.1 and DD2.0) approx. £16

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/premierasiamusa.jpg" width="100" height="143">

Premier Asia UK R2 (2 discs, anamorphic PAL, DTS, DD5.1) due August 2003 approx. £15

The initial Korean release came with a Hardback booklet but this has now sold out. The Premier Asia/ HKL release should be worth waiting for, with improved subs, subtitled extras and DTS soundtrack.

Barry Evil

12-01-2003, 14:54

Bichunmoo

<a href="http://www.dvdtimes.co.uk/index.cgi?page=Review&id=1293&story=4313">Review</a>

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/spectrumbichunmoo.jpg" width="100" height="145">

Spectrum Korean R3 (Anamorphic NTSC, Korean DTS, DD5.1, 2 disc special edition) approx. £13

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/deltabichunmoo.jpg" width="100" height="141">

Deltamarc HK R0 (Full Screen NTSC, Korean DTS, DD5.1) approx. £7

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/premierasiabichunmoo.jpg" width="100" height="152">

Premier Asia UK R2 (2 discs, anamorphic PAL, Korean DTS, Korean DD5.1, English DD4.1 ) approx. £15

Improved transfer, improved subs, subtitled extras ... gotta be Premier Asia.

Barry Evil

13-01-2003, 13:35

Failan

<a href="http://www.dvdtimes.co.uk/index.cgi?page=Feature&id=58&story=3962" target="_blank">Review</a>

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/premierfailan.jpg" width="100" height="146">

Premier Korean R0 (2 discs, anamorphic NTSC, DTS, DD5.1) £15

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/chinafailan.jpg" width="100" height="149">

China Star HK R0 (Anamorphic NTSC, DD2.0) £11

The Hong Kong version features a slightly better transfer but no DTS soundtrack. Availabilty of the HK edition seems to fluctuate, but don't worry if you can't track it down as the Korean transfer is pretty good anyway. Either disc is a good purchase.

Cirrus888

13-01-2003, 14:02

One Fine Spring Day

Theres a mega 3 disc special edition Korean version with OST CD but it has no english subs.

Then there is the cheapie HK version that is widescreen (non anamorphic) and barebones but it does have an excellent DD5.1 Soundtrack WITH English Subs.

Barry Evil

14-01-2003, 10:17

Harmonium In My Memory

<a href="http://www.dvdtimes.co.uk/index.cgi?page=Feature&id=63&story=4088" target="_blank">Review</a>

SRE Corporation Korean R0 (Anamorphic NTSC, Korean DD2.0) approx. £16

Modern Audio HK R0 (Fullscreen NTSC, Korean DD2.0) approx. £6

Despite having a below-average transfer with contrast levels set way to high, the Korean release is still superior to the HK edition which has a poor quality transfer cropped to full frame.

The Korean release comes with a 300 page book of film storyboards accompanied by the shooting script (in Korean). Although this has not been described as a limited edition, it is possible the film may be released without the book at some point in the future.

kcxdev

20-01-2003, 18:49

Ditto<TABLE border=0 cols=3><TR><TD width=110>Release</TD><TD width=325>Korean Spectrum R0</TD><TD>Hong Kong Mei Ah R0</TD></TR><TR><TD valign=top>Cover:</TD><TD>http://www.kcxdev.dsl.pipex.com/pics/Korean%20Movies/dittokor.jpg</TD><TD>http://www.kcxdev.dsl.pipex.com/pics/Korean%20Movies/dittohk.jpg</TD></TR><TR><TD>Video:</TD><TD>NTSC 1.85:1 anamorphic</TD><TD>NTSC 1.85:1 non-anamorphic</TD></TR><TD>Audio:</TD><TD>Korean Dolby Digital 5.1, Dolby Digital 2.0</TD><TD>Korean Dolby Digital 2.0</TD></TR><TD>Subtitles:</TD><TD>English, Traditional Chinese, Japanese</TD><TD>English Subtitle, Simplified & Traditional Chinese</TD></TR><TD valign=top>Extras:</TD><TD>Trailers
"Making Of" Documentary
Cast Information
Production Sketches
Photo Gallery
Interviews
Music Video
Original soundtrack
</TD><TD valign=top>Trailer
Database
</TD></TR><TR><TD>Price (approx):</TD><TD>£14</TD><TD>£6</TD></TR>
</TABLE>

Korean Movie Thread HK Review (Cirrus888) (http://www.thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=1324160#post1324160)

kcxdev

20-01-2003, 19:18

Friend<TABLE border=0 cols=3><TR><TD width=110>Release</TD><TD width=325>Korean EnterOne R0 (Tin Box UE)</TD><TD>Hong Kong Megastar R0</TD></TR><TR><TD valign=top>Cover:</TD><TD>http://www.kcxdev.dsl.pipex.com/pics/Korean%20Movies/friendkor.jpg</TD><TD>http://www.kcxdev.dsl.pipex.com/pics/Korean%20Movies/friendhk.jpg</TD></TR><TR><TD>Video:</TD><TD>1.85:1 anamorphic</TD><TD>NTSC 1.85:1 anamorphic</TD></TR><TD>Audio:</TD><TD>Korean Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS 5.1</TD><TD>Korean Dolby Digital 5.1</TD></TR><TD>Subtitles:</TD><TD>English, Korean</TD><TD>English, Simplified & Traditional Chinese</TD></TR><TD valign=top>Extras:</TD><TD>Cast & Crew Info
Three Audio Commentaries
Photo Gallery
Theatrical Trailers
TV Spot
Interviews
Behind the Story
Location
Dialect
Deleted Scenes
Outtakes
Marketing
Telecine : Comparison with Film Types
Easter Eggs
Trailer: Champion
(special features are not subtitled)
</TD><TD valign=top>Trailer
Music Video</TD></TR><TR><TD>Price (approx):</TD><TD>£16</TD><TD>£8</TD></TR>
</TABLE>

DVD Times HK Review (NoelM) (http://www.dvdtimes.co.uk/index.cgi?page=Review&id=725&story=2955) | Korean Movie Thread (http://www.thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=863530#post863530)

dq102

20-01-2003, 21:52

Hi Guys, where do you normally order Korean ed. DVDs?

Ono

20-01-2003, 22:57

Originally posted by dq102
Hi Guys, where do you normally order Korean ed. DVDs?

Try This Thread (http://www2.thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=56895) for suppliers mate.

Barry Evil

21-01-2003, 10:01

Originally posted by dq102 Hi Guys, where do you normally order Korean ed. DVDs?

Or have a look at <a href="http://www.dvdtimes.co.uk/index.cgi?page=Feature&id=53&story=3862">this feature</a> on DVD Times.

Cirrus888

24-01-2003, 15:24

Green Fish

No. 3

Love Wind Love Song

All available on the cheapie HK Universe Label but all 4:3 aspect ratio.

There are Korean versions of these movies which I think are all widescreen but I'm not too sure ... will update it as I find more info ...

Barry Evil

25-01-2003, 10:48

Thanks Cirrus888 .... I know you don't have time to do full comparisons with your 60 hour week :gag: ... but any info helps.

Barry Evil

26-01-2003, 11:23

Attack The Gas Station

<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=1309055#post1309055">Review</a>

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/spectrumattack.jpg" width="100" height="143">

Spectrum Korean R0 (Non-anamorphic letterbox NTSC, Korean DD5.1) approx. £12

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/meiahattack.jpg" width="100" height="130">

Mei Ah HK R0 (Fullscreen NTSC, Korean DD2.0) approx. £6

The Hong Kong version is a full-screen pan-and-scan edition and is to be avoided. Like a few of the early Spectrum releases, the Korean disc is erroneously flagged as anamorphic, so you may need to adjust your TV/DVD to get it to display correctly.

Another film to add to the 'I wish Premier Asia would release this' list.

Edge

01-02-2003, 12:42

Originally posted by Barry Evil
Harmonium In My Memory

SRE Corporation Korean R0 (Anamorphic NTSC, Korean DD2.0) approx. £16

Modern Audio HK R0 (Fullscreen NTSC, Korean DD2.0) approx. £6

Despite having a below-average transfer with contrast levels set way to high, the Korean release is still superior to the HK edition which has a poor quality transfer cropped to full frame.

The Korean release comes with a 300 page book of film storyboards accompanied by the shooting script (in Korean). Although this has not been described as a limited edition, it is possible the film may be released without the book at some point in the future.

Barry, I have noticed there's an edition of this at YesAsia without the book for £7, but be warned as it is also listed as having no subtitles

Edge

Barry Evil

03-02-2003, 10:15

Edge, that's the HK edition. According to other sources it does have English subs, but I can't personally confirm this.

Edge

03-02-2003, 19:45

Originally posted by Barry Evil
Edge, that's the HK edition. According to other sources it does have English subs, but I can't personally confirm this.

I thought it might be, although they usually put Overseas Edition after the title when it's the Hong Kong one so I wasn't sure

Edge

lorenzo

07-02-2003, 15:49

Barry

Two questions:

1. Can we link to covers of the films?

2. Is there a limit on pixel size for such images?

I want to do this for example ......

image edited

However, having looked at the images in this thread so far it would appear that I need to upload to my web space (almost full as it is) and also resize??

lorenzo

07-02-2003, 16:14

AFRIKA (Adoring Four Revolutionary Idols in Korean Area)

Genre: Drama, Action, Comedy

The story of four young women who come across a pair of loaded guns, and end up causing havoc across the country. An action comedy from veteran director Shin Seung-soo.

Theatrial Release: 2001
Director: Sin Sueng-Su (Gas Station Rout, Kick the Monon)
Cast: Kim Min-sun, Lee Yo-won, Jo Eun-ji, Lee Young-jin
Running Time: 109 min.
Rating: 15+

Korean - SRE

http://www.enterprise.dynip.com/forum_stuff/lorenzo/afrika_korean.jpg

Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio : DD 5.1
Subtitle : English

Region: 0
Recording: RDSL
Release Date : 16-04-2002
Running Time: 106 Min
Special Features: Trailer / Cast & Crew Info / Director's Commentary / Making-of Film / Press Conference / Poster Shooting / Music Video (*special features are not subtitled)

YesAsia: $18.75 US

HK - Fortex Group

http://www.enterprise.dynip.com/forum_stuff/lorenzo/afrika_HK.jpg

Video: NTSC, Widescreen
Audio : DD 5.1
Subtitle: Chinese, English

Region: 0
Release Date: 22-11-2002
Running Time: 106 Min
Special Features: Interactive Menu, Trailer, Music Video, Actor Interview And Behind The Screen.

dddhouse: $78 HK
sensasian: $10.99 US

Winner

The Korean SRE for its anamorphic presentation and acceptable price ;)

Barry Evil

07-02-2003, 16:15

Leeching bandwidth from other websites by including images on their webspace is against the forums t&cs, so I'd edit your post!

As for resizing, I think that's down to personal discretion. I'm just wary of people having to wait for lots of large images to download on each page, so I've tried to keep mine fairly small.

(But thanks for the info BTW!)

lorenzo

07-02-2003, 16:17

I asked the Mods and thye have been kind enough to host some images for me :thumbs:

I'll edit the above and put the images in when resized etc.

Barry Evil

07-02-2003, 16:21

I'd correct the HKL to HK too as well .... could cause some confusion :)

lorenzo

07-02-2003, 16:47

ART MUSEUM BY THE ZOO

A romantic comedy starring the most popular actress of the 1990s, Shim Eun-ha. The story of a man and a woman who end up sharing an apartment, and in the course of their fighting, agree to write a screenplay together.

Director: Lee Jeong-hyang
Cast: Shim Eun-ha, Lee Sung-jae, Ahn Sung-ki
Genre: Rom Com / Drama
Theatrical Release : 1998
Rating: 15+

Korean - Spectrum release

http://www.enterprise.dynip.com/forum_stuff/lorenzo/artzoo_korean.jpg

Video: NTSC anamorphic widescreen
Audio: DD 2.0
Subtitles: English
Region: Marked as 3 but all-region
Recording: Dual Layer
Running Time: 109 min.
DVD Release Date :19-07-2001

Special Features: Trailer / Cast & Crew Info / Music Video / Making Of Featurette / Highlights / Original Soundtrack / Interviews with director Lee Jeong-hyang and Shim Eun-ha (*special features are not subtitled)

Yeon: $20.00US

HK - Edko release

http://www.enterprise.dynip.com/forum_stuff/lorenzo/artzoo_HK.jpg

Video: NTSC non-anamorphic widescreen
Audio: DD 2.0
Subtitles: English, Chinese
Region: 0
Running Time: 108 min.
DVD Release Date :19-07-2001

Special Features: Trailer/ About the film / MTV / Photo Gallery

sensasian: $15.99
coolashop: OOS
dddhouse: OOS

Winner: Spectrum release for its anamorphic presentation

lorenzo

07-02-2003, 18:07

THE WAY HOME (Jibeuro)

The story of 7-year old, city dweller Sang-woo’s summer vacation at his grandparent's home in the countryside and his relationship with his old and barely intelligible grandmother who is close to nature.

Director: Lee Jeong-Hyang,
Cast: Kim Eul-Boon, Yu Seung-Ho, Dong Hyo-Hee
Genre: Drama
Theatrical Release: 2002
Rating: PG

Korean - ??? distributor

http://www.enterprise.dynip.com/forum_stuff/lorenzo/wayhome_Korean.jpghttp://www.enterprise.dynip.com/forum_stuff/lorenzo/wayhome_Korean2.jpg

Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: DTS & DD 5.1/ DD 2.0
Subtitles: English, Korean
Region: 3
Recording:
Discs: ? 2
Running Time: 87 min
DVD Release Date: 15-02-2003 (not yet released)

Special Features: to be confirmed and confusing! YesAsia list it as 1 shipment unit but as 2-discs. Cannot find this info anywhere else yet but will let you know. A second disc may be the OST.

YesAsia: TBA
KoreanDVDs: $25 US (preorder)

HK - Edko Films

http://www.enterprise.dynip.com/forum_stuff/lorenzo/wayhome_HK1.jpg

Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1 (according to koreandvds)
Audio: Korean DD5.1, Cantonese
Subtitles: English, Chinese
Region: 3
Discs: 1
Running Time: 88 min
DVD Release Date: 23-12-2002

Special Features: In The Dubbing Studio/ Making Of Featurette (With Subtitles) / Photo Gallery / Cast & Crew Information / Trailer

sensasian: $16.49 US
coolashop:
dddhouse: $122 HK

Tough decision this. I have gone for the Edko release for now.

lorenzo

07-02-2003, 19:13

VOLCANO HIGH SE (Wha San Go)

A new student arrives at Volcano High, a school where students use supernatural powers to cause trouble and teachers use their own significant powers to keep them in place. A comic-book-turned-film with some of the most advanced special effects ever seen in Korean cinema, and the first Korean DVD to offer DTS 6.1 ES sound :thumbs:

Director: Kim Tae-gyun
Cast: Jang Hyuk, Shin Min-ah, Kim Soo-ro, Chae Shi-ah
Genre: Sci-Fi Action Comedy
Year: 2001
Rating: 12+

Korean – Cinema Service

http://www.enterprise.dynip.com/forum_stuff/lorenzo/volcano_korean.jpg

Anamorphic Letterboxed 1.85:1;
Video: 1.85:1 anamorphic
Audio: Dolby Digital 6.1 EX / 2.0 Surround, DTS 6.1 ES
Subtitles: English, Korean
Discs: 2
Region: 3
Running Time: 121 min.
DVD Release Date :

Special Features: CG Making Commentary by Director, Jang Hyuck's Notes, Interviews, 100% CG Opening Main Menus, Making of Film (8 Chapters), Comparison with Story Board, Scene Selections (24 Sequences), Other Trailers (Funny Movie, Surprise), Theatrical Trailer (2), Cast/Director's Profile, Story Line (*special features are not subtitled)

Yeon $24 US
YesAsia $23.75

HK - Mega Star Video Distribution

http://www.enterprise.dynip.com/forum_stuff/lorenzo/Volcano_HK.jpg

Video: Anamorphic Widescreen NTSC,
Audio: Korean DTS & DD 5.1
Subtitles: English, Chinese
Discs: 2
Region: 3
Format: DVD9
Running Time: 100 cut (see below)
DVD Release Date : 23-10-2002

Special Features: Film Notes, Cast Information, Trailers, Music Video, Deleted Scene, Storyboard vs. Final Version, Behind the scenes, Coming Attractions, 4 Postcards

sensasian: $12.99 US
coolashop: $12.55 US ($97 HK)
dddhouse: $110 HK

Winner: currently Cinema Services' Korean release as the The Mega Star release is cut but a R2 HKL is due so may be best to wait! (thanks to unrealnils) :thumbs:

unrealnils

07-02-2003, 19:21

Yeah the HK dvd is cut :)

Also HKL have picked up the rights for the R2 release (which when it comes out will be under HKL's sister label Premier Asia)

Barry Evil

14-02-2003, 11:25

My Wife Is A Gangster

<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=1159618#post1159618">Review</a>

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/bearmywife.jpg" width="100" height="143">

Bear Entertainment Korean R0 (Anamorphic NTSC, Korean DTS, DD5.1, 2 disc special edition) approx. £14

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/edkomywife.jpg" width="100" height="146">

Edko HK R3 (Non-anamorphic NTSC, Korean DTS, DD5.1) approx. £13

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/premierasiamywife.jpg" width="100" height="142">

Premier Asia UK R2 (TBC) approx. £15

The best currently available version is the Korean special edition, but the forthcoming Premier Asia release will probably be the one to go for, as it will at least feature improved subs and subtitled extras. It is not yet known if this release will include DTS sound.

lorenzo

14-02-2003, 11:28

Barry the subs on my Korean 2-discer are fine though :confused:

Have I missed something?

Barry Evil

14-02-2003, 11:31

Don't think there's anything dramatically wrong with the subs on the Korean release ... just the usual minor typos etc. It's just that I'm expecting the Premier Asia subs to be perfect ;)

kcxdev

14-02-2003, 12:53

Can't wait for the Premier Asia specs...

http://www.dvdtimes.co.uk/index.cgi?page=News&id=4108
http://www.hongkonglegends.co.uk/index.php?art_id=19

EDIT: left a word out, duh!

Barry Evil

14-02-2003, 14:31

I've already updated Bichunmoo and Musa, and added My Wife Is A Gangster with as much as is confirmed for the Premier Asia specs. It's looking good :thumbs:

Barry Evil

19-02-2003, 10:06

Marriage Is A Crazy Thing a.k.a. Crazy Marriage

<a href="http://www.dvdtimes.co.uk/index.cgi?page=Feature&id=63&story=4088" target="_blank">Review</a>

EnterOne Korean R0 (Anamorphic NTSC, DTS, DD5.1) approx. £16

The Korean release is the only addition currently available.

Barry Evil

19-02-2003, 10:20

Single-Version Titles

All the following Korean films currently exist in one (subbed) DVD version only:

Ardor (Cinema Service Korean R3, anamorphic NTSC, DD5.1) <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2144750#post2144750">Review</a>
Baby Alone (Bitwin Korean R0, anamorphic NTSC, DD5.1) <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2447221#post2447221">Review</a>
Bad Guy (CJ Entertainment Korean R3, anamorphic NTSC, DD5.1) <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2156957#post2156957">Review</a>
Bizzare Love Triangle (Starmax Korean R3, anamorphic NTSC, DD5.1) <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2421126#post2421126">Review</a>
Chiwaseon (Cinema Service Korean R3, anamorphic NTSC, DTS, DD5.1) <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2156957#post2156957">Review</a>
Conduct Zero aka No Manners (Metro Korean R3 , anamorphic NTSC, DTS, DD5.1) <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2328092#post2328092">Review</a>
A Day (20th Century Fox Korean R0 , anamorphic NTSC, DD5.0) <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2461686#post2461686">Review</a>
H (Cinexus Korean R0, anamorphic NTSC, DD5.1) <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2316777#post2316777">Review</a>
The Isle (Universe Laser HK R3, non-anamorphic NTSC, DD2.0) <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=857279#post857279">Review</a>
Jail Breakers (Cinema Service Korean R3, anamorphic NTSC, DTS, DD5.1) <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2153280#post2153280">Review</a>
Kick The Moon (20th Century Fox Korean R0, anamoprhic NTSC, Korean DD5.1) <a href="http://www.dvdtimes.co.uk/index.cgi?page=Feature&id=80&story=4534#kickthemoon" target="_blank">Review</a>
Madeleine (Cinema Service Korean R3, anamorphic NTSC, DD5.1) <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2434947#post2434947">Review</a>
My Heart a.k.a. Affection (Spectrum Korean R0, anamorphic NTSC, DD5.1)
My Old Sweetheart (Winson Entertainment HK R3, full-frame NTSC, DD2.0) <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2279346#post2279346">Review</a>
Nabi (Korean R0, anamorphic NTSC, Korean DTS, DD5.1, 2 discs) <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=1704952#post1704952">Review</a>
Oasis (CJ Entertainment Korean R3, anamoprhic NTSC, DTS, DD5.1) <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=1903503#post1903503">Review</a>
On The Occasion Of Remembering The Turning Gate (IVision Korean R0, anamorphic NTSC, DD5.1) <a href="http://www.dvdtimes.co.uk/index.cgi?page=Review&id=1212&story=4065" target="_blank">Review</a>
Over The Rainbow (Premier Entertainment Korean R0, anamorphic NTSC, DD5.1) <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=1948651#post1948651">Review</a>
The Power Of Kangwon Province (Spectrum Korean R0, full-screen NTSC, DD5.1) <a href="http://www.dvdtimes.co.uk/index.cgi?page=Review&id=1210&story=4062" target="_blank">Review</a>
The Quiet Family (Modern Audio HK R0, non-anamorphic NTSC, Korean DD2.0) <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=1292020#post1292020">Review</a>
Ray Bang (I Vision Korean R0, anamoprhic NTSC,DD2.0) <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2579969#post2579969">Review</a>
Saving My Hubby (EnterOne Korean R3, anamoprhic NTSC,DD5.1) <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2057236#post2057236">Review</a>
Sex Is Zero (AO Media Korean R0, 2 discs, anamorphic NTSC, Korean DD5.1) <a href="http://www.dvdtimes.co.uk/index.cgi?page=Feature&id=80&story=4534#sexiszero" target="_blank">Review</a>
Wanee and Junah (EnterOne Korean R0, anamorphic NTSC, DD5.1) <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=1572201#post1572201">Review</a>
Wet Dreams (Starmax Korean R3, anamorphic NTSC, DD5.1) <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2126066#post2126066">Review</a>
YMCA Baseball Team (Starmax Korean R1+R3, anamorphic NTSC, DTS, DD5.1) <a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=2118238#post2118238">Review</a>

casperwoo

19-02-2003, 16:43

has anyone purchased korean dvd releases of american or european films?

i was wondering how some titles such as "mulholland drive" and "delicatessen" were on those disks.

i am interested because the r1 release of "mulholland drive" is bare bones and the korean one comes with many extras. "delicatessen" hasn't been released here in north america and i'm leaning towards getting an NTSC version rather than PAL.

thanks.

Ono

19-02-2003, 16:58

Originally posted by casperwoo
has anyone purchased korean dvd releases of american or european films?

Good point. I don't have the Korean release of any Western Films but I do know that the Korean versions of some non-Korean films are generally accepted as the best. Here I'm thinking along the lines of Battle Royale DC, Enter the Dragon and Evil Dead 1 & 2 amongst others.

What I like to do is research any films I am interested in on sites like DVDAsian.com which has good spec details of Korean releases.

Jimmyboy

19-02-2003, 17:11

Whats so good about the Korean release of Enter the Dragon ?

Ono

19-02-2003, 18:22

Originally posted by Jimmyboy
Whats so good about the Korean release of Enter the Dragon ?

It has DTS I think.

unrealnils

19-02-2003, 18:34

Korean dvd of Mulholland drive comes with chapter stops somthing the R1 or R2 does not if i remember correctly

Korean dvd of HEAT has a dts soundtrack but is cropped from the original aspect ratio of 2.35:1 to 1.85:1

Korean dvd of La Haine is better the the dismal tartan version. (french is now oop :( )
:smokin:

Look here for Korean DVD exclusives (non-Korean films!) (http://thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=141088&highlight=korean)

Enjoy people :)

Barry Evil

09-03-2003, 12:46

Nowhere To Hide

<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=8435390#post843539">Review</a>

Spectrum Korean R0 (Full-length cut, non-anamorphic NTSC, Korean DD5.1) approx. £12

Tartan UK R2 (International cut, anamorphic PAL, Korean DD2.0) approx. £15

Avalanche Video US R1 (International cut, anamorphic NTSC, Korean DD2.0) approx. £12

Panorama HK R0 (International cut, non-anamorphic NTSC, Korean DD5.1) approx. £6

The only DVD available featuring the full original cut of the film is the Korean release. Please note that this disc is incorrectly flagged as anamorphic and you may need to adjust your TV/DVD to view it correctly. The HK release is poor and the Metro Tartan release matches their usual low standard.

Jimmyboy

16-03-2003, 03:09

Universe Laser HK R3 - (Anamorphic NTSC, Cantonese DD5.1, Korean DD2.0, English & Chinese simplified/traditional subtitles, trailer) approx. £3.25 exe shipping

Spectrum Korean R3 - (Anamorphic NTSC, Korean DD5.1/2.0, English subtitles, Trailer, Bae Doona Interview, Director's Commentary Audio Track, Cast & Crew Info, Story Board, Highlights, OST via menu, Making Of Featurette) - (special features and commentary are not subtitled in English) approx. £13 exe shipping

It obviously depends whether extras are important to you as to which version you decide to buy.
The lack of English subs on the Korean release makes the HK release the better option for those that just want the film. If you simply have money to burn or can speak Korean then the Spectrum release will be more suitable.

kanedaa

16-03-2003, 15:55

5.1 Audio, Storyboard Comparisons and the full OST accessible via the Special Features menu on the Korean release are welcome bonuses, especially on the audio side of things as the films soundtrack is very good.

Jimmyboy

16-03-2003, 17:55

Originally posted by kanedaa
5.1 Audio, Storyboard Comparisons and the full OST accessible via the Special Features menu on the Korean release are welcome bonuses, especially on the audio side of things as the films soundtrack is very good.
While 5.1 is always going to be the preferred option given a choice, Barking Dogs Never Bites is entirely dialogue driven and there's very little going on to make use of the rears or the sub woofer.
Besides which, the DD2.0 pro-logic track is so good on the HK release that I actually thought I was listening to 5.1. It was only after I'd finished watching the film and went to put the dvd back in the box that I saw it was DD2.0.
The on disc OST is probably the most important extra feature on the Spectrum release but the failure to include it as a separate audio CD is a real crapper as I'm yet to hear of a DVD player that can come close to matching a dedicated high quality CD player and Hi-Fi System.

kanedaa

16-03-2003, 18:56

Neither of us have seen both versions so i'm not going to argue the benefits, I just wanted to point out 3 features on the Korean release that I felt you unfairly glanced over (and omitted entirely in case of the OST) so everyone can get the full details.

Oh, and I don't believe for a second you never knew the HK release was DD2.0 given the exhaustive level of research you put into each and every purchase ;)

Jimmyboy

17-03-2003, 02:43

Originally posted by kanedaa
Neither of us have seen both versions so i'm not going to argue the benefits, I just wanted to point out 3 features on the Korean release that I felt you unfairly glanced over (and omitted entirely in case of the OST) so everyone can get the full details.

Oh, and I don't believe for a second you never knew the HK release was DD2.0 given the exhaustive level of research you put into each and every purchase ;)

The OST would have been submitted had it not been for posting difficulties during research of the various release's so I'm not quite sure what you mean. It's not as though I get a perverse thrill out of intentionally withholding dvd information.
and I'm not entirely sure how I 'unfairly' glanced over anything considering both the storyboards and difference's in the audiotrack are clearly marked out in the specs for each release.

Which version have you seen ?.

kanedaa

17-03-2003, 03:54

Sorry, bad choice of words (on my part) and the comment regarding money to burn just made me want to outline that the extras on the Korean release are not useless despite no Korean language skills. I have the Korean release, its been a while since I saw it so I won't comment on the merits of the 5.1 track.

There is also a music video on the Korean release.

kat23

21-03-2003, 16:28

What is the Region 1 version of Il Mare like? Anyone know? Am thinking of getting this film so wondering which version to get.

http://www.dvdboxoffice.com/description.asp?Class=mvi&wh=MAIN&s=gg&rate=CAD+%2D+1%2E0000&pid=90031493

Seems to have been released on 11th Feb.

wcheung

21-03-2003, 17:02

Originally posted by kat23
[B]What is the Region 1 version of Il Mare like? Anyone know? Am thinking of getting this film so wondering which version to get.

It's a Tai Seng DVD so probably the same as the HK version.
Check out the languages details, can't even get that right!

Cirrus888

22-03-2003, 18:45

The bae doo-na interview on the Korean Dogs is worth the price alone ... :nuts:

Barry Evil

12-04-2003, 11:40

The Ring Virus

The Korean remake of the Japanese Ringu.

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/startreeringvirus.jpg" width="100" height="142">

Star Tree HK R0 (Non-anamorphic letterbox NTSC, Korean DD2.0) approx. £6

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/bitwinringvirus.jpg" width="100" height="130">

Bitwin Korean R0 (Anamorphic NTSC, Korean DD5.1) approx. £14

The Hong Kong version has a non-anamorphic transfer and DD2.0 sound compared to the Korean release's anamorphic transfer and DD5.1 surround track. Unfortunately, the Korean release is officially OOP although some retailers have copies available.

SimonI

16-04-2003, 16:12

...

Edit: Sorry - put this in the wrong thread!

Barry Evil

09-05-2003, 17:45

The Foul King

Comedy set in the world of pro-wrestling.

<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=884035#post884035">Review</a>

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/edkofoulking.jpg" width="100" height="149">

EDKO HK R3 (http://global.yesasia.com/assocred.asp?LU83C65N+http://global.yesasia.com/en/PrdDept.aspx/pid-1001812565/did-0/code-c/section-videos/) (Non-anamorphic letterbox NTSC, Korean DTS) approx. £6

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/spectrumfoulking.jpg" width="100" height="142">

Spectrum Korean R0 (http://global.yesasia.com/assocred.asp?LU83C65N+http://global.yesasia.com/en/PrdDept.aspx/pid-1001809942/did-0/code-k/section-videos/) (Anamorphic NTSC, Korean DD5.1) approx. £13

Don't be tempted by the HK DTS track, it's little improvement over the Korean edition's DD5.1 and it lacks the latter's good anamorphic transfer.

Barry Evil

05-06-2003, 09:00

My Tutor Friend

<a href="http://www.dvdtimes.co.uk/index.cgi?page=Review&id=1392&story=4493" target="_blank">Review</a>

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/mytutorfriendsauce.jpg">

Fried Chicken With Sauce Edition (http://global.yesasia.com/assocred.asp?LU83C65N+http://global.yesasia.com/en/PrdDept.aspx/pid-1002784544/did-0/code-k/section-videos/) (Starmax Korean R0, 2 discs, anamorphic , Korean DD5.1, OST CD, extra goodies) approx. £20

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/mytutorfriendchicken.jpg">

Fried Chicken Edition (http://global.yesasia.com/assocred.asp?LU83C65N+http://global.yesasia.com/en/PrdDept.aspx/pid-1002784637/did-0/code-k/section-videos/) (Starmax Korean R0, 2 discs, anamorphic , Korean DD5.1, OST CD, extra goodies) approx. £20

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/mytutorfriend.jpg">

Standard Edition (http://global.yesasia.com/assocred.asp?LU83C65N+http://global.yesasia.com/en/PrdDept.aspx/pid-1002784547/did-0/code-k/section-videos/) (Starmax Korean R0, 2 discs, anamorphic , Korean DD5.1) approx. £17

All three editions contain the same 2 DVD discs. The Fried Chicken and Fried Chicken with Sauce editions are limited to 5,000 copies each. They come supplied in a special MTF plastic bag which contains a pseudo-fried chicken box containing the following (identical) set of extra goodies:

A soundtrack CD in it's own jewel case
Four mini-posters
A booklet (in Korean only) with production notes etc
A set of postcards
Three stickers
A couple of fridge magnets/ bottle openers

Barry Evil

05-06-2003, 09:30

Take Care OF My Cat

<a href="/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=1543316#post1543316" target="_blank">Review</a>

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/panoramatcomc.jpg">

Panorama HK R3 (http://global.yesasia.com/assocred.asp?LU83C65N+http://global.yesasia.com/en/PrdDept.aspx/pid-1002819603/did-0/code-k/section-videos/) (Full-screen NTSC, Korean DD5.1) approx. £7

<img src="http://www.aoth70.dsl.pipex.com/covers/enteronetcomc.jpg">

Enter One Korean R0 (http://global.yesasia.com/assocred.asp?LU83C65N+http://global.yesasia.com/en/PrdDept.aspx/pid-1001835317/did-0/code-k/section-videos/) (2 discs, anamorphic NTSC, Korean DD5.1) approx. £16

The HK ediiton is full-screen pan and scan and should be avoided. In contrast, the Korean release has a nice anamorphic transfer and comes with two subtitled short films on the second disc.

Jimmyboy

07-07-2003, 18:18

Bungee Jumping of Their Own

Edko HK R3/0 - (Non-anamorphic letterbox NTSC, Korean DD5.1) approx £7 + p&p.
Extras - Cast info, Film info, Music Video, Trailers for Lovers Concerto and Wanee and Junah.

There was a Korean release which had identical specs but with an added 12 min behing the scenes feature but this is long OOP.

mr_woo

09-07-2003, 00:24

The Ring Virus HK dvd is anamorphic, not non-anamorphic and also has 5.1 surround sound.

It's basically the same as the Korean spec wise, though of course the korean dvd may be better picture wise.

Barry Evil

09-07-2003, 08:59

Originally posted by mr_woo
The Ring Virus HK dvd is anamorphic, not non-anamorphic and also has 5.1 surround sound.

It's basically the same as the Korean spec wise, though of course the korean dvd may be better picture wise.

Well I've just double-checked the HK disc and it's definately non-anamorphic and stereo only. The transfer is pretty poor - VCD quality I'd say.

mr_woo

09-07-2003, 22:01

Originally posted by Barry Evil
Well I've just double-checked the HK disc and it's definately non-anamorphic and stereo only. The transfer is pretty poor - VCD quality I'd say.

OK then i'll take your word for it :D

My equipment is crap anyway so i probably just got it wrong!

Barry Evil

09-07-2003, 22:14

I'm pretty sure I saw the HK release listed as anamorphic and DD5.1 - that's why I bought it! So that may be the source of the confusion.

Cirrus888

24-08-2003, 05:31

HK Korean releases are really heating up with at least a new title being released on DVD and the cinema each week these days.

There are HK releases of:

Marrying The Mafia
Marriage Is A Crazy Thing
Too Young To Die
Musa - The Warrior
Lovers' Concerto
Sympathy For Mr. Vengeance
Make It Big
Bungee Jumping Of Their Own
Who Are You?
Seoul
Sorum
Perfect Match

Barry Evil

24-08-2003, 09:19

Originally posted by Cirrus888
HK Korean releases are really heating up with at least a new title being released on DVD and the cinema each week these days.

I know ... I've given up trying to keep up with 'em all

Aardvark_DK

17-11-2003, 23:17

Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance

Edko HK R3 (non-anamorphic letterbox, Korean AC3 2.0) approx. £7

Bare bones edition, but picture quality is surprisingly good for a single-layer disc - probably the best DVD-5 I've seen so far. Solid blacks and fairly sharp picture. A bit of aliasing causes slight shimmering from time to time, but not enough to bother me.

Subtitles are fine although letters are not translated (but that is apparently also the case with the more expensive Korean release - which I haven't seen).

Sound seemed fine but my hearing isn't too good, so it's kinda hard for me to say.

Recommended.

kontkommer

22-12-2003, 11:13

so is the korean cinema hype over?

Ono

10-01-2004, 00:13

Originally posted by kontkommer
so is the korean cinema hype over?
No. But I do sense a shift away from the Romantic comedies taking all the headlines to the grittier films - SFMV, MOM and even The Uninvited.

Aardvark_DK

10-01-2004, 11:59

Memories of Murder is... GAH! ... so, so good!

And Old Boy should be out on dvd soon... The combination of Choi Min-shik and Park Chan-wook cannot fail - and judging by the reviews so far it hasn't.

SheepDip

06-03-2004, 13:56

Sex Is Zero, one of the movies mentioned earlier as "single release" does indeed now have a HK version.
It's released by Winson, and comes in an amaray with a nice(ish) card slipcase.
Picture is all-important anamorphic NTSC.
It's DVD5, so no surprises that the picture isn't the best - but it's quite acceptable.
Subtitles are acceptable. Minor problems have been noticed (See Jimmyboy's post a couple down), but nothing that takes anything away from the "experience".
Sound is DD Korean 5.1, and Cantonese stereo (If you really want to listen to it dubbed). Default is Cantonese so you have to ensure you set it up first in the correct menu. The authoring of the sound has not been done correctly - many wouldn't notice, but there is a slight echo effect. If your amp has any sound effects, this CAN amplify the error many times over - so beware of this and turn off all effects.
Cost is about £6.00.

SheepDip

06-03-2004, 14:06

Hi Dharma HK release -

Released by Universe, it comes in an amaray. Contains the disc, but nothing else.
This is a DVD5, but the picture is surprisingly good.
Anamorphic NTSC.
DD 5.1 - sounds good too, definately no problems here.
Cost is about £4.00.

Cirrus888

07-03-2004, 13:46

All of the older Mei Ah and Universe HK DVDs including many Korean movies like Hi Dharma can be picked up retail now for around 1.50p ... so very cheap ... P+P is more expensive!

... not much use this info to all you guys over in Europe is it? :p

Jimmyboy

07-03-2004, 15:47

Originally posted by SheepDip
Sex Is Zero, one of the movies mentioned earlier as "single release" does indeed now have a HK version.
It's released by Winson, and comes in an amaray with a nice(ish) card slipcase.

Subtitles are fine - no problems here.

Subtitles aren't completely fine, occasionally a 2nd line of subs appear from a previous scene below the current subs for some strange reason. It doesn't affect understanding the film though.

Westmorland

08-03-2004, 14:23

Great thread this, I've just started watching Korean movies (Borrowed a couple from a friend), and this gives great advise on which versions to buy.
Thanks:thumbs:

SheepDip

08-03-2004, 20:03

Originally posted by Jimmyboy
Subtitles aren't completely fine, occasionally a 2nd line of subs appear from a previous scene below the current subs for some strange reason. It doesn't affect understanding the film though.

Can't say I noticed that (But personally I'm very tolerant of subs). The whole point of this thread is to advise on which version to go for - so I'll amend the description:D

Ono

29-07-2004, 19:07

Up for people to view and also for a mod to move :D

Matt KB

28-02-2005, 18:51

wong fei hong

28-02-2005, 18:59

Matt - yesasia (see the affliate link in the menus above) is your friend. Free shipping when you spend only a little, pretty cheap, customs friendly, great customer service. I love them to pieces. If you liked Oldboy then Sympathy for Mr Vengeance (same director, similar feel) is a shoe-in, and I'd also recommend Memories of Murder.

Jimmyboy

28-02-2005, 19:16

Perhaps you guys can help :)

I bought Oldboy a number of months ago and thought it was fantastic despite it's flaws. I have a few questions about where to go from here, with my previous delve into Asian film more or less stopping at the Battle Royale series.

Oldboy as part of a trilogy - am I correct in thinking the other films aren't out yet? Do we know what they are titled/will be titled?

The films I'm interested in which I've heard are excellent are JSA: Joint Security Agency and Sympathy for Mr Vengeance - where is the best (balanced with cheapest) place to get these from? Ono mentioned he prefers the Korean versions to the HK versions for various reasons, but both are R3. This coupled with the vast amount of places to purchase these films, I'm in need of some assistance :) Thanks!

It's always hard to recommend new comers movies like this coz 'Asia' isn't just one small film industry, it's like 40% of the planet. ;)
The films you've already suggested are good Korean films to start with, they date back to before the Korean talent drought. Sympathy for Mr Vengeance is fantastic, it's what my sig file is taken from and has literally just been released by Tartan in a 2-disc edition which should be worth getting (there's also a Tartan 1-disc which you should avoid). Otherwise there's the Korean R3.

The reason Ono recommends Korean R3's is because Korean distributors generally have a very high A/V standard where as Hong Kong R3's tend to be cheap and cheerful. However there are some Hong Kong R3's which are of a high standard which is why it's important to keep up with threads like this and check the online reviews.

Matt KB

28-02-2005, 19:52

Aardvark_DK

28-02-2005, 21:26

Well there's this version of Sympathy For Mr Vengeance [2002] (http://www.thedvdforums.com/jump.php?url=http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0007G9JR2/thedvdforums-21) from Amazon (can't seem to find it on Yesasia). Is that better than the Korean version?
Hm, I wonder if that Tartan release is really "Aspect Ratio: 1.77 Anamorphic Wide Screen" like it says. Hopefully not as the movie is something like 2.3 to 1. Don't even consider the HK edition (which I'm afraid I recommended some time ago) - it's cropped quite a bit.

They also have Memories of Murder (http://www.thedvdforums.com/jump.php?url=http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0002W12US/thedvdforums-21) but that seems a trifle expensive at £16.99.
The HK edition is ok according to DVD Talk (http://www.dvdtalk.com/reviews/read.php?ID=14427). It can be had for around £8 at CD-Wow.

Matt KB

28-02-2005, 21:52

Memories Of Murder (DTS ES) - DVD Region @ CD-Wow (http://www.thedvdforums.com/jump.php?url=http://tracker.tradedoubler.com/click^QS^p=3128^QA^a=60823^QA^g=17349^QA^url=http://www.cd-wow.com/detail_results_2.php^QS^product_code=12567) - Nice one! Cheers.

Their aspect ration for Sympathy For Mr. Vengeance (DTS) - DVD Region 2 (http://www.thedvdforums.com/jump.php?url=http://tracker.tradedoubler.com/click^QS^p=3128^QA^a=60823^QA^g=17349^QA^url=http://www.cd-wow.com/detail_results_2.php^QS^product_code=16728^QA^subcat=region2) is 2.35 (contrary to Amazon), compared to 1.85 for Sympathy For Mr. Vengeance - DVD Region 3 (http://www.thedvdforums.com/jump.php?url=http://tracker.tradedoubler.com/click^QS^p=3128^QA^a=60823^QA^g=17349^QA^url=http://www.cd-wow.com/detail_results_2.php^QS^product_code=12260)

So I think I'll go for the former Vengreance and Memories of Murder from CD-Wow. Cheers guys. I'm getting JSA HK Edition off a mate as well :D

Jimmyboy

28-02-2005, 22:48

Well there's this version of Sympathy For Mr Vengeance [2002] (http://www.thedvdforums.com/jump.php?url=http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0007G9JR2/thedvdforums-21) from Amazon (can't seem to find it on Yesasia). Is that better than the Korean version?

That's probably about on par with the Korean version the only real difference being the Korean dvd doesn't have English subtitled extras.

They also have Memories of Murder (http://www.thedvdforums.com/jump.php?url=http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0002W12US/thedvdforums-21) but that seems a trifle expensive at £16.99.

You may as well pick up the cheap HK release because the R2 doesn't have any noticeable extra features and I think it has no DTS as well.

Matt KB

01-03-2005, 15:08

Nice one, I'll pick up Sympathy R2 then from CD-Wow along with the R3 of Memories. Cheers :)