DARK SHADOWS FORUMS

General Discussions => Current Talk Archive => Current Talk '24 I => Current Talk '02 II => Topic started by: Julianka7 on July 06, 2002, 07:00:51 PM

Title: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Julianka7 on July 06, 2002, 07:00:51 PM
My husband and I were out shopping and found the
DS DVD 4 pk at Best Buys. I wasn't planning to buy
it, as I have those episodes on MPI VHS. But my husband
bought it for me and I was excited when I saw it and
tickled he bought it. The trouble is it would not play
in my DVD player! We have never had this happen
before with any DVD.
Did this happen to anyone else?
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Bj on July 06, 2002, 07:33:06 PM
My set works bee-u-tee-ful-lee.  :)

What model/make of player do you have?  Do all 4 discs not play?  Try some other dvd's you have just to make sure your player is still healthy.

You can always exchange them for another set just to make sure.
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: joe integlia on July 06, 2002, 09:28:33 PM
mine plays fine but when i purchased the special edition dvd, it would not play the nancy barrett segment on my zenith dvd player. zenith even gave me a brand new model for free and it still wont play it. this has been reported many times before so i wont go into it. ive had no problems playing the episodes on the first dvd collection.
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Julianka7 on July 06, 2002, 10:15:37 PM
Quote
My set works bee-u-tee-ful-lee.  :)

What model/make of player do you have?  Do all 4 discs not play?  Try some other dvd's you have just to make sure your player is still healthy.

You can always exchange them for another set just to make sure.

My DVD player is from RCA. I did try playing all the discs
from the DS 4 pk. None would work. A message came
up the the DVDs were not compatible. I played
a DVD I had rented that day after that and it worked.
I never had this happen before. And I have bought
and rental many DVDs.
I'll return the DVD tomorrow. They only had one other
set at the Best Buys.
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Julianka7 on July 06, 2002, 10:17:58 PM
Quote
mine plays fine but when i purchased the special edition dvd, it would not play the nancy barrett segment on my zenith dvd player. zenith even gave me a brand new model for free and it still wont play it. this has been reported many times before so i wont go into it. ive had no problems playing the episodes on the first dvd collection.

I don't understand why my DVD player could play
them. It's never happened with any other DVDs.
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Bj on July 07, 2002, 05:57:04 AM
Quote

My DVD player is from RCA. I did try playing all the discs
from the DS 4 pk. None would work. A message came
up the the DVDs were not compatible. I played
a DVD I had rented that day after that and it worked.
I never had this happen before. And I have bought
and rental many DVDs.
I'll return the DVD tomorrow. They only had one other
set at the Best Buys.


How old is your player?  If it's a first generation RCA, then I can understand why:  my first was such a RCA and it had tons of compatability problems.  I got rid of it and bought a Panasonic which I've been very happy with.  So I truly sympathize with your situation  :(  I hope your machine is still under warranty.

BTW: no problems with the SE-disc either.  :)
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Brian on July 07, 2002, 06:12:28 AM
>:( Don't even get me started on the DS DVD set and BEST BUY.  After many years of loyal purchases--and lots money at Best Buy--I severed my relationship with that chain last week because the jerk manager in charge refused to give me a refund on the DS DVDs that would not play on my Samsung 301 player (which I'd bought at the very same store).  I had previously been given refunds from the very same store, despite the policy.  So, I'm going to buy a new DVD player in the next few weeks-- but not at Best buy. . .I'll never even "window-shop" in that store again. . .--and then I'll but my fourth DS MPI set and see if if works on a SONY or PANASONIC DVD player.  BEST BUY has lost this customer--it's a long story about a customer service--due to a manager who has no idea what good customer service is.

RANT. . .VENT. . .STONE THAT MANAGER UNTIL BLEEDS. . .

AHHHHHHHH!

Brian

(Thanks, I need that!)
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Darren Gross on July 07, 2002, 07:58:40 AM
Bri- if you're going to buy a new player you might want to look at a new model that's hitting the shelves this month. The Panasonic RP-82. It's going to retail for around $279, but will be less at the usual outlets.

It's supposed to be a really great, very compatible model, full of features and I've heard lots of great things about it. I'm planning on picking one up as well, once I've read some consumer reviews...

cheers,
D
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: kuanyin on July 07, 2002, 11:11:58 PM
Best Buy, huh? Do you mind if I ask how much? I keep looking at Costco, cos' they have such good prices on DVDs, especially sets, but so far no luck.
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: ksgemini on July 07, 2002, 11:48:17 PM
I have a Sony 300 and it plays all 4 discs and the SE DVD fine... Compatibility problems are a pain The first generation Toshiba units-2008- had problems with A&E discs
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Julianka7 on July 09, 2002, 04:47:39 AM
I'll answer the questions in one message, if that's ok.

BJ-my DVD player is RCA a couple of years old.
Never had any trouble with compatibility before
or since.

Brian-I don't blame you! I told my husband about
Best Buy. So we checked our sales slip and it
says we'll have to take a store credit or exchange.
Which is a load of bull!

Kuanyin-The price for the DS DVD 4-pk was $42.00.
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Carol on July 09, 2002, 05:00:21 AM
Quote
Best Buy, huh? Do you mind if I ask how much? I keep looking at Costco, cos' they have such good prices on DVDs, especially sets, but so far no luck.


Get this--I ordered the DVD set thru DSDVDonline and I asked if I could use the discount coupon that MPI was offering($10 off for $50 purchase). The woman that took my order checked with someone and said it was okay but I distinctly got the feeling that it was reluctantly given. Anyhow, the $59.98 DVD came in at $49.98.

Now I have to buy a DVD!!
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Julianka7 on July 09, 2002, 10:09:40 PM
Quote


Get this--I ordered the DVD set thru DSDVDonline and I asked if I could use the discount coupon that MPI was offering($10 off for $50 purchase). The woman that took my order checked with someone and said it was okay but I distinctly got the feeling that it was reluctantly given. Anyhow, the $59.98 DVD came in at $49.98.

Now I have to buy a DVD!!

I hope you have better luck then I did getting the DS
DVD to play when you get your DVD player.
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: RingoCollins on July 09, 2002, 10:25:23 PM
I wish all of you that have had problems with this DVD compatablity issue would just raise some HELL [kaiokn] with the place you bought these disc players and disc's from.  This drives me [nuts] that consumers are having to be jerked around and know so many little details about how to use one of these things, and which kinda thing goes with which kinda thing, or what country it is from, or what color your panties are, and everybodys little thingys thingy!  There should be one standard of thing, and unless the people who are making money off of us hear about it - LOUD- it will continue to burn us all!

It makes me mad as hell [angryf], and I'm not gonna take it!

So there.

RingoRant!
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Raineypark on July 09, 2002, 11:35:10 PM
Quote
It makes me mad as hell [angryf], and I'm not gonna take it!


Why Ringo!.....what righteous indignation!!....what passion!!!.....what a great quote from "Network"!!!! (Paddy's my hero.)

Shall we get our torches and pitchforks and march on our local appliance stores?  

I say the heck with the small fry.....lets head straight for Wall Street!

Raineypark
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Dean on July 10, 2002, 03:25:44 AM
I purchased both the DS Special Edition DVD & the new four-pack DS DVD's from Suncoast Video Store - and had no problems playing them on both my PC which has a DVD drive or my Toshiba DVD player.

I would suggest you might want to contact MPI and let the customer service representative know about this problem that you are having.

Just a suggestion.

Dean
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: jennifer on July 10, 2002, 07:22:35 AM
Quote
>:( Don't even get me started on the DS DVD set and BEST BUY.  After many years of loyal purchases--and lots money at Best Buy--I severed my relationship with that chain last week because the jerk manager in charge refused to give me a refund on the DS DVDs that would not play on my Samsung 301 player (which I'd bought at the very same store).  I had previously been given refunds from the very same store, despite the policy.  So, I'm going to buy a new DVD player in the next few weeks-- but not at Best buy. . .I'll never even "window-shop" in that store again. . .--and then I'll but my fourth DS MPI set and see if if works on a SONY or PANASONIC DVD player.  BEST BUY has lost this customer--it's a long story about a customer service--due to a manager who has no idea what good customer service is.

RANT. . .VENT. . .STONE THAT MANAGER UNTIL BLEEDS. . .

AHHHHHHHH!

Brian

(Thanks, I need that!)


I hear you Brian how stupid of that person i had the same problems with BLOCKBUSTER last week about their return policys i was 20 minutes late (after 12 noon)
and they charged me an extra 9.00 for late fees for two rentals after trying to reason with them i asked for a pair of scissors and cut my cards up in front of him!
to lose customers over stupid things is a poor way to conduct business!

jennifer

Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Bj on July 10, 2002, 07:52:50 AM
Quote


I hear you Brian how stupid of that person i had the same problems with BLOCKBUSTER last week about their return policys i was 20 minutes late (after 12 noon)
and they charged me an extra 9.00 for late fees for two rentals after trying to reason with them i asked for a pair of scissors and cut my cards up in front of him!
to lose customers over stupid things is a poor way to conduct business!

jennifer



Was it the manager who charged you the late fee?  Always talk to the manager.  Anyways, I hope you didn't pay it.  >:(
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: victoriawinters on July 10, 2002, 09:43:51 AM
i purchased my first set of ds dvds from darkshadowsdvd.com.  

however, after being subjected to the worst "live with the stars" ds chat time with john karlen and KLS on said site, i will be buying mine next sets in the series from amazon.com or http://www.deepdiscountdvd.com/.  

since the deep discount is charging no shipping, i'll probably get my next set from them.

at $43.19 for either 4 disc set (deep's price), it's a steal and you don't have to deal with the best buy check out line.

Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: natewatson on July 10, 2002, 10:08:58 PM
Before I begin, I must state that I am extremely happy that the series has made its way to DVD. I know it is a huge undertaking to release the entire series and we should be glad to have it at all. And I shall buy the entire series on DVD as I already did with the VHS releases. That out of the way, I kinda wanted more from the DVDs. Not more episodes...40 per set is fine. But more bonus features. The interviews are nice, but (having only scanned them) they are rather old, as footage from them showed up on Behind the Scenes tape and that was released close to a decade ago. Maybe 1 episode per disc could have an audio commentary from one of the actors! Or in the future, the first episode that an actor appears in could get an audio commentary from said actor. I also wish there were chapter stops within the episode. Having the entire episode as one chapter stop still will mean a lot of fast forwarding and rewinding vs. a lot of nexts!  :)
Anyway, I realize that all costs $$ and so is not likely to happen, but it would be nice!
Anyone else have any ideas that they wish the DVDs would incorporate? (that are reasonable!)

PS. This is my very 1st post....so hopefully I did alright! ;)
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: ksgemini on July 11, 2002, 12:09:56 AM
Ideas for the DVD's? Well, first I think MPI has done a great job keeping DS alive...I just purchased the entire series used on video because I didn't want to wait 8 years for all the DVD's.
  So, I guess my first request would be for them to go with the original every 2 month plan instead of quarterly.  Also...they are trying to attract new fans of the show...I think they should add one of their 30 minute compilationson to each set..as a way of showing what can be expected from future ep's...the earlier eps move a bit slow...not a criticism from here... but some of my friends who got a little frustrated with the "Barn has Maggie prisoner" storyline took a second look when I showed them what's coming up...color...Angelique...warlocks...witches...1795...1897" I liked the special tapes MPI did and would like to see them tagged onto the sets
And, yes I wish they could at least get more recent interviews with KLS and John Karlen...however ..I am thankful to MPI and hope these compatibility issues that some people are having can be corrected somehow...
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Bj on July 11, 2002, 03:13:44 AM
I recently learned from another post that Elizabeth Collins appeared on What's My Line -- that's the kind of stuff I'd like to see as a supplement on the dvd set.  It would be nice if they included parts of their other related tapes (bloopers, best of, scariest moments, etc.) and even their Darkness of Blaisedon -- but I'm not holding my breath.  I'm just happy I can collect the episodes for the first time on dvd. :)

But I agree there should be chapter stops.  I guess that means they would have to pay someone to come up with meaningful titles... ::)
Title: Name: Brian SpitlerRe: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Brian on July 11, 2002, 06:02:33 AM
Quote
I wish all of you that have had problems with this DVD compatablity issue would just raise some HELL [kaiokn] with the place you bought these disc players and disc's from.


Well, Ringo, here's the exchange I had, via email, with Best Buy:

Store Number: 157
Want Response: Y
Comments: Why do your managers not care about maintaining a positive, happy
customer?  I bought a DVD set ($42.00+ tax) at this store during late
afternoon on Sat., June 29.  The DVD set (4-discs) would not play on the
Samsung DVd player I had bought at the same store last July (2001). I took
the DVD set back on Sunday, June 30 (about 1 pm), and was told I could only
return this defective merchandise for the same title.  Well, the store did
not have another copy of the same title (which was the MPI DVD release of
DARK SHADOWS, FYI).  So I was told I could have a store credit for the same
amount.  As I had been given refunds in the the past-in spite of the store
policy-I asked for the manager, and a fellow named Michael (who was about
25-30 yrs old, short (5'7"?) and with thinning dark hair and a hoop earring
in his left ear) was called to speak with me. He explained the store policy,
and I explained that exceptions had been made in the past.  After several
minutes, I angrily accepted the store credit, and went to find some other
items to purchase.  I found NONE that I wanted, so I went back to customer
service (THE ALL IMPORTANT WORDS) and asked to see the manager.  The same
MICHAEL was summoned.  He asked me why I wanted my money back--and I said
because it IS my money.  He said that once I made the initial purchase, the
money was Best Buy's and the only right I had was to a store credit.  This
clerk's arrogance and tone of voice made me feel as though he suspected I
had copied the DVD and then tried to return it for cash.  THAT IS ABSOLUTELY
NOT THE CASE:  I bought a product which was defective.  I requested a
refund.  I was denied the refund.  I was treated as a common criminal and
your manager did not even care about making sure I was given proper customer
service!!  I'm sad to say that after spending lots of money in Best Buy (on
such items as 2 TVs [25" and 27"], 2 DVD players, 1 VCR, 1 Receiver/Amp, 1
Camcorder, 1 Turntable [about which I had to educate your sales-clerk], 2
headphones, 1 CD writer, 1 scanner, 1 inkjet printer, and multiple CDRs and
DVDs [more than 125 in the last 12 months]) I will no longer shop in your
store.  I will spend a little more money on better customer service and go
to Circuit City, Borders, Barnes and Noble, etc.  I hope your sales clerk
Michael continues to alienate loyal customers--as I plan to spread the word
among my many clients that Best Buy has no interest in customer service-=but
only in the bottom line--i.e., DOLLAR!

Even though the store credit I accepted now has about $6.00 left on it (I
went to another Best Buy store in Orlando and found some other merchandise
to buy), I will never again step foot inside a Best Buy, nor buy anything
on-line from Best Buy, unless I receive an apology from Michael the ass
manager.  He truly did not give a hang about the customer--and his
intimation that I would have tried to dupe the store is unacceptable from a
manager in a retail store--especially in today's retail climate.

Thank you for reading this.  I hope for a response.

And here's the response I received a week later:

Thank you for contacting Best Buy Corporate Headquarters regarding your DVD
return and store experience.  I was very sorry to read of the difficulties
you described.  Please allow me to address your concerns.

Please let me begin by apologizing on behalf of Best Buy for any lack of
quality service that was experienced with employees at our East Colonial
store (#157).  It certainly is not our intention to inconvenience, be rude
toward, or serve our customers unsatisfactorily in any way.  Our company
strives to provide customer satisfaction, however, occasionally incidents
may occur that do not reflect our best intentions.  I am truly sorry the
level of service you received from Best Buy failed to adequately meet or
exceed your expectations.  

. . . thank you for alerting us to your experience.  Customer
feedback is our best resource for improving the quality of service we
provide.  Your comments are greatly appreciated and will be forwarded to
management, including the General Manager (GM) of store #157.  It is my
intention to make them aware of service related issues such as this, so that
it will help to improve the level of service provided by our store
employees.  

Despite any misgivings and contrary to what you said, we hope that you will
allow Best Buy another opportunity to serve you.  We value your support and
hope to see you in a Best Buy store again.

Respectfully,

R e x   R a d e r m a c h e r
Enterprise Customer Care      
Best Buy Corporate Headquarters

And here is my most recent response to this message:

Dear Mr. Radermacher,

Thank you for your reply.  As it turns out, I purchased a new DVD player this evening which I hope will address the problems I had with the particular DVD disc set I returned, as well as several other problem discs I own.  I made my purchase at Circuit City, and I was very pleased with the customer service I received at that store.  I plan to purchase the DVD I returned to Best Buy last week directly from the manufacturer via the internet--the manufacturer's price was comparable to Best Buy's price.  The only way I will go back to Best Buy is if I receive a personal apology from the manager in question.  I will be happy to pay a visit to the store to meet with him, in the presence of the general manager, of course, if he would like to offer an apology.  Please have the general manager of the store contact me at. . .  if he/she would like to set up such a meeting.

I'm still awaiting that phone call--and I'm still avoiding Best Buy (meanwhile, I ordered the DVD set from Amazon, which shipped it UPS--and now I have a whole new set of problems as UPS has NEVER made a satisfactory, on-time delivery to me.)

:'( :'( :'( >:(


Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Mysterious Benefactor on July 11, 2002, 06:46:50 AM
Quote
I kinda wanted more from the DVDs. Not more episodes...40 per set is fine. But more bonus features. The interviews are nice, but (having only scanned them) they are rather old, as footage from them showed up on Behind the Scenes tape and that was released close to a decade ago.

Supposedly the stars have done new interviews that will show up on later DVD releases.
Quote
Maybe 1 episode per disc could have an audio commentary from one of the actors! Or in the future, the first episode that an actor appears in could get an audio commentary from said actor.

Now that's a great idea.

Quote
I also wish there were chapter stops within the episode. Having the entire episode as one chapter stop still will mean a lot of fast forwarding and rewinding vs. a lot of nexts!  :)

I suppose they figure that because episodes only last about 20 minutes, putting chapter stops for every act would be a bit excessive.

Quote
Anyway, I realize that all costs $$ and so is not likely to happen, but it would be nice!

Like Dean, my DVDs play fine on both my PC's DVD drive and my player (a Panasonic), so I don't really have any complaints there. And the episode transfers are really quite pristine:

(http://www.dsboards.com/images/PRE1.jpg)(http://www.dsboards.com/images/PRE2.jpg)
DVD versus VHS
(And best of all, no video noise on DVD!)

So, no complaints there either. But I do have two fairly minor issues:



Quote
PS. This is my very 1st post....so hopefully I did alright! ;)

You did great! Welcome to the forum. :D
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Julianka7 on July 11, 2002, 07:22:09 AM
Quote
I wish all of you that have had problems with this DVD compatablity issue would just raise some HELL [kaiokn] with the place you bought these disc players and disc's from.  This drives me [nuts] that consumers are having to be jerked around and know so many little details about how to use one of these things, and which kinda thing goes with which kinda thing, or what country it is from, or what color your panties are, and everybodys little thingys thingy!  There should be one standard of thing, and unless the people who are making money off of us hear about it - LOUD- it will continue to burn us all!  

It makes me mad as hell [angryf], and I'm not gonna take it!

So there.

RingoRant!


Amen Ringo!!!!
It never entered my head that this could happen.
In the just over 2 years we have had our DVD
player we have rented and bought many DVDs
and they all played fine.
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Julianka7 on July 11, 2002, 07:38:06 AM
Now that M.B. has shown me what I'm missing by
not being able to play the DVDs I feel even worst!
It's not fair I can't play them in my DVD player :'(
I have a question. I was reading in a mag. the
other day about Easter Eggs on DVDs. An Easter
Egg is some little something on the menu screen
of a DVD that contains surprises. Is there an
Easter Egg on the DS DVD?
Brian, I'm going to take my defective DVD back
to Best Buy this weekend. I'm going to file a
complaint about their lousy return policy while
I'm at it.
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Stuart on July 11, 2002, 08:05:41 AM
There aren't any Easter Eggs on the DVDs... sorry.

Too be honest, I'd rather they didn't try to cram any more material onto the discs than they're doing at the moment.  The odd commentary here and there would be nice, but otherwise I'd prefer the disc space to used to keep the episode quality nice and crisp :)

The menus are amazing, IMO -- they're just so nicely presented and creepy and the subtle animation and sound effects sets the whole package up so well :)

I guess that the photo images of Barnabas will be altered to reflect the content of each disc set, so I guess we'll start seeing some new characters on the menus soon -- there really is zip photographically from this era other than 20 billion shots of Jonathan pouting or fanging...

But either way, I'm thrilled with my set -- it really is like watching a new show at times :)
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: mfmdpt on July 11, 2002, 08:30:39 AM
Quote
There should be one standard of thing


That's the whole problem, Ringo -- there isn't any standard recording/encoding format for DVDs. But the industry is aware of the problem, and they're working to come up with that standard. (check out this post I made back in March: Somewhat OT: DVD Recording Standard Stirs Interest (http://www.dsboards.com/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.pl?board=ct1;action=display;num=1015264127;start=0))

Not to try to sound pessimistic, but as I mentioned in the post, a standard could also bring with it another problem...
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Bj on July 11, 2002, 08:38:20 AM
Quote

I honestly dislike the fact that there's no way to bypass playing the menu introduction every time you put a DVD in.


Well, it's easy enough with my Panasonic:  right at the FBI warning screen I press "display" on my remote to get the on-screen icon bar, I flip to Title 3 (which is the first episode), then press "menu" and I'm there.

BTW: your dvd vs vhs comparison is a bit misleading because there's usually some bluring when a vcr is in freeze-frame mode; so the difference probably isn't as dramatic as you have presented it.
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Mysterious Benefactor on July 11, 2002, 09:32:37 AM
Quote
Well, it's easy enough with my Panasonic:  right at the FBI warning screen I press "display" on my remote to get the on-screen icon bar, I flip to Title 3 (which is the first episode), then press "menu" and I'm there.

Hmmm - I'll have to try that. But, of course, that's merely a work around that we're lucky enough to have access to. Not everyone else's player will have this option. ;) By simply pressing the "menu" button, the vast majority of DVDs will automatically bring you to the selection menu, bypassing the introduction. Or at least that's the case with both my player and my DVD drive's software.

Quote
BTW: your dvd vs vhs comparison is a bit misleading because there's usually some bluring when a vcr is in freeze-frame mode; so the difference probably isn't as dramatic as you have presented it.

But the VCR wasn't in freeze-frame mode when I took the screen capture. Both the DVD player and the VCR were playing the pre-Barn introduction. So, the difference is probably more dramatic than you might think. [wink2]
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: victoriawinters on July 11, 2002, 12:11:27 PM
my dear mysterious benefactor... i felt the pixie was better quality too.  

further, i didn't mind the introduction at all.  

i also noticed that as long as i kept my same dvd in my player and then pushed play it would start where i left off.

however, if i took it out to play something else, then i had to start over from the introduction.

again, i'm sure there is no set standard with these dvd players and your experience could vary.  
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Stuart on July 11, 2002, 01:28:37 PM
Quote
BTW: your dvd vs vhs comparison is a bit misleading because there's usually some bluring when a vcr is in freeze-frame mode; so the difference probably isn't as dramatic as you have presented it.


It's not misleading -- if anything, it doesn't do the difference justice.  The DVD transfers are so much sharper and more tonal than the VHS pictures.  I wasn't expecting to be that wowed by the picture, but the DVD episodes are so pin-sharp and clear that it's just a pleasure to rewatch these episodes.  It's like viewing a different show to the broadcasts on Sci-Fi.
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Bj on July 11, 2002, 06:36:42 PM
Quote

Hmmm - I'll have to try that. But, of course, that's merely a work around that we're lucky enough to have access to. Not everyone else's player will have this option. ;) By simply pressing the "menu" button, the vast majority of DVDs will automatically bring you to the selection menu, bypassing the introduction. Or at least that's the case with both my player and my DVD drive's software.

I agree it's not elegant and there's really no excuse for not being able to do this by one click of your remote.  However, you said there was no way to bypass the intro -- I was just offering a solution.  And if you have a macro key on your remote, it's even less painless.

Quote

But the VCR wasn't in freeze-frame mode when I took the screen capture. Both the DVD player and the VCR were playing the pre-Barn introduction. So, the difference is probably more dramatic than you might think. [wink2]


I thought that noise at the bottom of the pic was due to it being in freeze-frame.  Then, yes, it really is a dramatic difference.
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Bj on July 11, 2002, 06:43:59 PM
Quote


It's not misleading -- if anything, it doesn't do the difference justice.  The DVD transfers are so much sharper and more tonal than the VHS pictures.  I wasn't expecting to be that wowed by the picture, but the DVD episodes are so pin-sharp and clear that it's just a pleasure to rewatch these episodes.  It's like viewing a different show to the broadcasts on Sci-Fi.


While the dvd quality is a treat, I hope it doesn't eventually spoil the "mood" of the way it was originally broadcast.  I'm thinking of the War of the Worlds dvd: great transfer, but the wires suspending the Martian spaceships are now so obvious!:)
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Raineypark on July 11, 2002, 07:32:09 PM
Quote
Maybe 1 episode per disc could have an audio commentary from one of the actors! Or in the future, the first episode that an actor appears in could get an audio commentary from said actor.


That's an excellent idea....in theory.  The value of it would depend very much on the actor and the "interviewer" if that style was chosen.  It could be interesting and informative...or it COULD just be crazy.

There's an audio commentary on the DVD of John Karlen's film "Daughters of Darkness" that is just out of control.  His comments are so funny (and so bawdy) that they completely overwhelm what's on the screen, and the journalist interviewing him does nothing to rein him in.  I had to keep stopping the DVD player to catch my breath I was laughing so hard.

Now that might have been entertaining in this particular case (the movie's a hoot)....and as some of you know, he's my favorite on the show....but I don't think I'd want him and his anecdotes leaving me in hysterics in the middle of, say, the scene where he opens the coffin....it's supposed to be terrifying, not hilarious!

Just my thoughts on the possibile drawbacks of an otherwise great idea.

Rainey

Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: natewatson on July 11, 2002, 09:33:18 PM
Quote

There's an audio commentary on the DVD of John Karlen's film "Daughters of Darkness" that is just out of control.  His comments are so funny (and so bawdy) that they completely overwhelm what's on the screen, and the journalist interviewing him does nothing to rein him in.  I had to keep stopping the DVD player to catch my breath I was laughing so hard.

Now that might have been entertaining in this particular case (the movie's a hoot)....and as some of you know, he's my favorite on the show....but I don't think I'd want him and his anecdotes leaving me in hysterics in the middle of, say, the scene where he opens the coffin....it's supposed to be terrifying, not hilarious!


Yes Rainey
I know what you mean. I don't yet have the Daughters of Darkness DVD. I bought it on VHS when it came out...it's a great movie and will definately be represented in the 1971 Blasko Awards.

However, somehow, I wouldn't have a problem with Johnny (or any DS actor) going crazy in the commentary. I mean, when you wanna watch it "seriously", you just turn the audio commentary off, right?

Nathan
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Mysterious Benefactor on July 11, 2002, 10:18:27 PM
Quote
you said there was no way to bypass the intro -- I was just offering a solution.  And if you have a macro key on your remote, it's even less painless.

I understand, and your solution is very much appreciated. Unfortunately, though, there is no way to bypass the intro on some systems (for instance, my DVD drive). But as I said, it's basically a minor issue at most - especially considering that the intro is very well done and it only lasts for 39 seconds. It's just that it can get a little old after seeing it repeatedly on all four disks. ;) It's also interesting to note that for all the complaints about the Special Edition DVD, it did allow you to bypass the introduction screen if you wanted to.
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Mysterious Benefactor on July 11, 2002, 10:20:59 PM
Quote
There's an audio commentary on the DVD of John Karlen's film "Daughters of Darkness" that is just out of control.  His comments are so funny (and so bawdy) that they completely overwhelm what's on the screen, and the journalist interviewing him does nothing to rein him in.  I had to keep stopping the DVD player to catch my breath I was laughing so hard.

I agree. I love his commentary. It's pure Karlen all the way! [lghy]
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Bj on July 11, 2002, 10:24:42 PM
Quote

However, somehow, I wouldn't have a problem with Johnny (or any DS actor) going crazy in the commentary. I mean, when you wanna watch it "seriously", you just turn the audio commentary off, right?

Nathan

Absolutely!  I'd love to hear Karlen do commentaries for DS -- especially if he's as entertaining as he was for DoD (too bad I no longer have that disc  :(
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Mysterious Benefactor on July 11, 2002, 10:32:34 PM
Quote
However, somehow, I wouldn't have a problem with Johnny (or any DS actor) going crazy in the commentary. I mean, when you wanna watch it "seriously", you just turn the audio commentary off, right?

I agree, Nathan. I never check out the commentary track(s) until after I've already watched the main attraction. Many times the commentary won't even include the soundtrack so you're basically devoting your attention to what's being said and how it relates to what's being shown, and not so much to the actual storyline.
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: mpi_dvd_authoring on July 12, 2002, 12:12:05 AM
Hi All,

I do DVD authoring here at MPI and although I did not create the first Dark Shadows set, I have viewed all the discs on many different set top and computer DVD players. We always try to create discs that will be compatible with as many players as possible. It's quite rare for discs themselves to be defective, so much as they may be programmed in a way that certain older players, and suprisingly some of the very high end progressive scan new players may have issue with.
We are always interested in knowing about issues with our discs and are open to suggestions to make the experience for you, the viewers, the most enjoyable, with ease of navigation and user guidance programmed on the disc.

For those of you having problems playing these discs on older model players, most manufacturers have created "firmware updates" that solve many problems on the players. You can contact the manufacturer, but there is a website called www.vcdhelp.com with many useful tools, links, and information about players, DVD's and VCD's as well.

Looking forward to your feedback and comments,
db.
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Mysterious Benefactor on July 12, 2002, 12:28:41 AM
Quote
I do DVD authoring here at MPI

I'd just like to confirm that db is legit and isn't someone merely posing as someone who works for MPI. So, here's everyone's opportunity to get their complaints/suggestions heard by someone who's more than willing to listen. ;)
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Bj on July 12, 2002, 12:29:28 AM
Hi, mpi_dvd_authoring.

Can you tell us what kind of extras are in store for future DS sets and set #2 in particular?

Thanks. :)
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Raineypark on July 12, 2002, 12:46:14 AM
Quote
However, somehow, I wouldn't have a problem with Johnny (or any DS actor) going crazy in the commentary. I mean, when you wanna watch it "seriously", you just turn the audio commentary off, right?


Okay guys....so maybe there IS no downside to having audio commentary on the DS dvd's......unless you count the Parental Warning Label they'll slap on anything the 'Bad Boy from Brooklyn" narrates.... in which case some of our young'uns.....like Lindsey and Daphne....might not be allowed to purchase the darned thing in the first place!!! [lghy]

Raineypark
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Mysterious Benefactor on July 12, 2002, 01:08:40 AM
Quote
the Parental Warning Label they'll slap on anything the 'Bad Boy from Brooklyn" narrates....

Can you imagine if Karlen and Dennis Patrick were ever teamed up to do a commentary?! [wink2] Watch out if they got into the whole issue of the ABC censors' concerns that there never be a hint of a sexual relationship between Willie and Barnabas! ;D And if Patrick managed to slip in a few of his limmericks, well, the DVD would not only need a Parental Advisory - the commentary would probably turn out to be NC-17! [lghy]
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Raineypark on July 12, 2002, 04:25:31 AM
Quote

Can you imagine if Karlen and Dennis Patrick were ever teamed up to do a commentary?! [wink2] Watch out if they got into the whole issue of the ABC censors' concerns that there never be a hint of a sexual relationship between Willie and Barnabas! ;D And if Patrick managed to slip in a few of his limmericks, well, the DVD would not only need a Parental Advisory - the commentary would probably turn out to be NC-17! [lghy]


OOOOHHHH.....What a lovely idea!!!!!

Shall we start a letter-writing campaign?  Who do you know at MPI that we can deluge with requests for naughty limmericks, bawdy songs and stories about being arrested for chatting up a hooker?  [lghy]

Honestly, all that crap about having to bite Willie on the wrist and not the neck was idiotic.

Were they then completely oblivious to the S and M overtones of Barnabas taking his cane to Willie every other week?  I guess even sadism was fine...so long as it didn't have homoerotic leanings.  ::)

Hypocricy like that makes me [puke]

Rainey....who can't believe I just used that emicon....I HATE that emicon!!!!!   :P


Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Brian on July 12, 2002, 05:32:38 AM
Quote
Brian, I'm going to take my defective DVD back to Best Buy this weekend. I'm going to file a complaint about their lousy return policy while
I'm at it.

Julianka7--and everyone else--please do complain about these ridiculous return policies.  Yes, I know there are people out there who will copy CDs, DVDs, computer software, etc--and then return the original to the retail store--but I truly believe that the vast majority of us are honest and will only return one of these media if they're defective.  (I mean--how many record albums did you return to the store in the 60s and 70s because you made a cassette tape copy of it!!) ::)

The retail stores, film companies, record companies and software companies are really crossing the line here--and alienating many more customers, I think, than they realize.

FYI--Im still awaiting an answer from Best Buy.

Another FYI, and BTW:  UPS customer service sucks--and if you want details, please email me.

"I'm mad as hell and I'm not going to take it" is RIGHT!

Brian

(Who loves his DS friends and buddies. . .)

Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Dean on July 13, 2002, 05:10:07 AM
I just wanted to say that I was really amazed at the quality of the new DS DVD's.  I am really new to the whole DVD format, but I know from speaking to Jim Pierson that MPI was really involved in cleaning up these prints before they were transferred to MPI.  I saw the cover art for the next set coming out at the festival - and I think it's really cool.  I love the whole spooky woods ~ menu scenario!  :)  I think it is really creative and is fun to watch.  Call me simple LOL  ;) but I think MPI has done a great job with the DVD's.  I understand that there are problems with some DVD players and from everything I have read here - it sounds like it happens elsewhere and is a problem experienced when using this format.  

My two cents for the day~~~~  8)

Dean
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Dean on July 13, 2002, 05:13:06 AM
<<before they were transferred to MPI>>>

OOPS!!..  :-[

I meant to say before they were transferred to DVD.

Dean
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: mfmdpt on July 13, 2002, 07:42:38 AM
Quote
from everything I have read here - it sounds like it happens elsewhere and is a problem experienced when using this format.

It is, Dean. Probably the most well known case of a DVD that had playback problems on a lot of players was the release of The Matrix back in 1999. There was even a Web site set up that explained what brands/models of players had problems and how to go about having their firmware updated. But that certainly didn't stop The Matrix from going on to be the biggest selling DVD in the format's short history. If I'm not mistaken, I think it still holds the record.
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Julianka7 on July 14, 2002, 04:54:22 AM
I took my DS dvds back to Best Buys today and got a refund!
I'd rather have a set that I could play on my DVD player,
but it doesn't look like that'll be happening.
So I'll just use my money to buy more of the MPI vhs
volumes  ;)
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Brian on July 14, 2002, 05:16:12 AM
Quote
I took my DS dvds back to Best Buys today and got a refund!


Glad to hear it!! I'm still awaiting an apology from that jerk at my local Best Buy--and I have resisted all temptations to go in and browse DVDs at Best Buy (I've been going to Circuit City and Borders, instead).  I'm hopeful the DS DVDs will play on my new machine when (if) they arrive via UPS [see earlier post] on Monday.

I have very strong will power when I make up my mind, and Best Buy joins Kroger, Pizza Hut and Wal-Mart on my list of businesses to never again patronize.

Brian
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Bj on July 14, 2002, 05:52:04 AM
Quote
I took my DS dvds back to Best Buys today and got a refund!
I'd rather have a set that I could play on my DVD player,
but it doesn't look like that'll be happening.
So I'll just use my money to buy more of the MPI vhs
volumes  ;)


Wow!  I would have liked to have been an innocent bystander when you were trying to convince the BB pods to give you a refund! ;)

I hope you notify MPI of your problems so that they can issue more compatible future releases.
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Julianka7 on July 14, 2002, 07:56:25 AM
Quote


Wow!  I would have liked to have been an innocent bystander when you were trying to convince the BB pods to give you a refund! ;)

I hope you notify MPI of your problems so that they can issue more compatible future releases.

Actually, it wasn't hard. I explained the trouble I had.
Then the young lady started to tell me about the
exchange or store credit. So I gave her my best
don't screw with Mother look and said, "I understand the store policy, dear. But I would prefer my money back." She gulped and looked me in the eye and gave it to me. ;D
And yes, I e-mailed MPI and told them about the trouble
I had with the DS DVDs. I think everyone who has had
any trouble should do the same.

Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Midnite on July 14, 2002, 08:28:13 AM
Quote
And yes, I e-mailed MPI and told them about the trouble I had with the DS DVDs. I think everyone who has had any trouble should do the same.

Yes, and don't forget that in addition, there's a registered member of dsboards that is representing MPI, and on the 3rd page of this topic mpi_dvd_authoring welcomed comments and suggestions, so you can be assured that feedback posted in this topic will be heard by someone at MPI.  So please feel free to take advantage of that opportunity by providing input or airing grievances about any DS DVD here.
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Luciaphile on July 14, 2002, 07:09:31 PM
Quote

Actually, it wasn't hard. I explained the trouble I had.
Then the young lady started to tell me about the
exchange or store credit. So I gave her my best
don't screw with Mother look and said, "I understand the store policy, dear. But I would prefer my money back." She gulped and looked me in the eye and gave it to me. ;D


LOL, don't screw with Mother!!!

As someone who worked retail for too long, I can tell you that's been my personal experience, that if a customer is persistent enough (without being rude) and makes enough of a fuss, most managers will do what they can to appease them.  

Luciaphil
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Brian on July 14, 2002, 07:27:10 PM
Quote

LOL, don't screw with Mother!!!

As someone who worked retail for too long, I can tell you that's been my personal experience, that if a customer is persistent enough (without being rude) and makes enough of a fuss, most managers will do what they can to appease them.


LOL--I guess next time I'll try my "don't screw with father" look (I'm old enough--I just don't have the kids to prove it! ;D). . .clearly being persistent without being rude didn't work for me with the BB manager.

Brian
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Luciaphile on July 14, 2002, 07:39:02 PM
Quote


LOL--I guess next time I'll try my "don't screw with father" look (I'm old enough--I just don't have the kids to prove it! ;D). . .clearly being persistent without being rude didn't work for me with the BB manager.

Brian


I did say "most managers."  You might try going up the next step to whoever's above this person.  Or going back on a different day.  It's a PITA, I know, to keep doing that, but that's the only thing I can suggest.

Luciaphil
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Julianka7 on July 15, 2002, 12:56:45 AM
Quote


LOL--I guess next time I'll try my "don't screw with father" look (I'm old enough--I just don't have the kids to prove it! ;D). . .clearly being persistent without being rude didn't work for me with the BB manager.

Brian

LOL! Brian, I've had years of being the oldest daughter
of 7, baby sitting and raising my own 2 (daughter 22 and son 21) so I can give looks that speak volumes  ;)
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Julianka7 on July 15, 2002, 12:59:31 AM
Quote


LOL, don't screw with Mother!!!

As someone who worked retail for too long, I can tell you that's been my personal experience, that if a customer is persistent enough (without being rude) and makes enough of a fuss, most managers will do what they can to appease them.  

Luciaphil

That usually works for me Luciaphil ;)

Title: What's that sound?
Post by: Bj on July 16, 2002, 01:16:47 AM
In the menu of the dvd during the intro just before the big clap of thunder, there are sounds of birds, dogs, ghosts(!) or something. Does anybody think they know what this is?
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Brian on July 16, 2002, 05:22:18 AM
I don't know about the sound, but  ;D WE HAVE SUCCESS. . .UPS came through (though late) with delivery, and the DS set plays on my new (well, one week old) DVD from RCA.  After all the angst, drama and stress, I'm  a happy camper (but BB is still on my sh*t list >:(!!)

Brian
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Julianka7 on July 16, 2002, 07:14:10 AM
Quote
I don't know about the sound, but  ;D WE HAVE SUCCESS. . .UPS came through (though late) with delivery, and the DS set plays on my new (well, one week old) DVD from RCA.  After all the angst, drama and stress, I'm  a happy camper (but BB is still on my sh*t list >:(!!)

Brian

Good for you Brian  :D
Title: Re: Grrr! DS DVD
Post by: Julianka7 on July 22, 2002, 06:15:28 PM
Hi,
I thought I'd let you all know I did hear back from MPI
about the e-mail I sent them about the DS DVDs
not being compatible to my RCA player.
They suggest I take the DVDs back to Best Buy and
play them in several different players. If the DVDs
played in 90% of the players there was nothing
that could be done.
So I e-mailed them back and told them it was too late.
I had already returned them.