Battle Royale DVD. Which One and Why?

[cmatherne]

I am looking to purchase Battle Royale on DVD. I have a few questions that I do not seem to get very good results by doing a search. I looked at DDDhouse.com. They were decent on price but they only have one version. What are my options guys?

1) Which Version should I buy and why? i.e. to quality, features etc.
2) Where is the best place as far as price and quality to buy from?

Thanks for any help or guidance in advance.
P.S. If anyone wants to part with their Battle Royale just e-mail me.
Thanks again.

[DrGerbil]

The answer depends on:
1. Which cut you want. Theatrical or SV (Special Version/Extended Cut). No one DVD release has both.
2. Whether or not you have a region-free DVD player capable of PAL-to-NTSC conversion.
3. Picture quality or subtitled extras?

Quick answer: If you want the best PQ (picture quality) and the extended cut, go for the Starmax release. If you want the best PQ and the theatrical cut, go for the Tartan NTSC release. Whatever you do, avoid the Tartan PAL disks like the plague, unless spending over $30 for subtitled extras is a priority. All of the Tartan PAL releases are rife with ghosting issues on the main feature and they are not the way one should experience the film for the first time. I might add that many BR fans feel the scenes/requiems added to the SV detract from the film to a certain degree, especially in terms of the pacing and emotional resonance of the ending.

[cmatherne]

I might add that many BR fans feel the scenes/requiems added to the SV detract from the film to a certain degree, especially in terms of the pacing and emotional resonance of the ending.

I have heard that before. Thanks for the input.

I have a region free player.
Tv will handle PAL conversions fine.
Picture quality is more of a concern. I don't see myself watching the extras anyway.

Thanks again.