Warlords Pre-Order

Amazon shows running time as 113 minutes, while the Megastar version (HK) shows 126.

I'm in a quandary over this title. I have it pre-ordered from amazon, but from what I've read this North American release is apparently a shortened version of the film. The Hong Kong disc you mention is supposedly the full version but also seems to be pretty expensive.

I see there is also a region-free version available from the UK at a reasonable price, but I'm not sure what version is on there. An image of the back cover on amazon.co.uk suggests a shorter version again, but blu-ray.com's review lists 126 minutes as the run time. The bonus features on this are supposedly in PAL, so many region A players may not be able to play them. I might not care about the extras in this case, if it at least contains the 126-minute cut.

Does anyone own the UK and/or Hong Kong releases and could offer advice on this title?

The UK version is cut - the info on the blu-ray.com listing is incorrect. Where did you hear that the US version would be cut as well? That would be both surprising and disappointing, given the A+ treatment Magnolia gave to Red Cliff.

Run time on amazon is given as 113 minutes. I know they are often wrong on specs though.

Yeah, basically never trust Amazon for specs. It's quite likely that they're wrong, especially considering the limited theatrical run Magnolia had in the States was (I believe) for the uncut version of the film.

It looks like there are three cuts:

UK Version = 110 Minutes
US Version = 113 Minutes
HK Version = 126 Minutes

I just ordered the HK cut from DDDHouse for $31 shipped. It's a Region "A" BD, so no worries, mate.

Yup...may have to cough up the cash for the whole enchilada on this one.

Is there any source for there being a 113 minute cut other than retailers listing the DVD/Blu specs? Because the cut that Magnolia released in theaters here was 126 minutes, and IMDB only lists two cuts - 110 and 126. Again, I wouldn't be shocked if the specs are just plain wrong, and the US release is indeed 126 minutes. Just sit tight, we'll find out soon enough.

I've been following this thread over at blu-ray.com: Warlords (HK)

There does seem to be a lot of speculation, but some cite the US Theatrical cut running at 113 min. I also noticed this was Pro-B's thread....does he still post over here?

Reliable Sources report US cut is 113 minutes....

And what sources might those be?

the magnolia cut is 113 min.

Comparison review over at DVDBeaver.... wow, what a disappointment this release is. Red Cliff got such a good release I was expecting the same with this one.

Wow, that really sucks. Looks like it's time to import.

Yea, I would have opted for the Magnolia had all things been equal....hate to see "dumbded down" releases for US market. From the Beaver:

MegaStar:
Bottom line: 9
As usual for Peter Chan, this is a movie with all stops wide open. It's awesome to look at, magnificently scored, and compellingly acted. The Blu-ray is first rate, given its desaturated look.

Magnolia:
Recommendation: 5
If you don’t mind subtitles and can handle Region A discs, then the MegaStar is the edition you should have. The image is more natural (and possibly more correct), the audio is more vigorous, nuanced and more enveloping, and it includes the director’s commentary. If you require an English dub or a region free edition of the movie, then the Magnolia is for you.

DDDHouse: The Warlords (MegaStar)

Well, this makes things really easy. Amazon pre-order cancelled. Will import the Megastar version.

even though it's cut, the UK edition has better sound than the Megastar release. I own both versions and can make that observation/comment.