They Shall Not Grow Old Blu-ray: A Definitive Guide to Pre-ordering and Bonus Content
Peter Jackson’s groundbreaking documentary, They Shall Not Grow Old, breathed new life into archival footage of World War I, transforming grainy, silent film into a vivid, colorized, and sound-filled experience. This remarkable feat of filmmaking offered a visceral and deeply moving glimpse into the lives of British soldiers on the Western Front, resonating with audiences worldwide. Now, fans of the film can bring this immersive historical experience home with the They Shall Not Grow Old Blu-ray release. This article serves as a comprehensive guide to pre-ordering the Blu-ray and delves into the wealth of bonus content that further enriches this already powerful film.
Pre-ordering Your Copy of They Shall Not Grow Old:
Securing your copy of They Shall Not Grow Old on Blu-ray is simple, with several options available to cater to different preferences. Here’s a breakdown of common retailers and online marketplaces offering pre-orders:
- Major Online Retailers: Amazon, Best Buy, Target, and Walmart are typically reliable sources for pre-ordering Blu-rays. Check their respective websites for availability, pricing, and potential pre-order bonuses. Some may offer exclusive steelbook editions or collectible packaging.
- Specialty Retailers: If you’re looking for a more curated experience, consider pre-ordering from retailers like Criterion Collection or other independent stores specializing in film. They may offer exclusive bundles or limited-edition releases.
- Direct from Studios/Distributors: Sometimes, the film’s studio or distributor offers direct pre-orders through their official website. This can be a good option for securing exclusive merchandise or collector’s editions.
- International Retailers: For those outside the US, consider checking with local online retailers specializing in Blu-ray and DVD sales. Availability and release dates may vary depending on the region.
Navigating Pre-order Bonuses and Special Editions:
Often, pre-ordering They Shall Not Grow Old grants access to special bonuses, including:
- Exclusive Packaging: Steelbooks, slipcovers, and limited-edition box sets are popular pre-order incentives, offering collectors unique and visually appealing ways to display their Blu-ray.
- Bonus Discs: Some pre-orders might include an additional disc containing extended interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, or other supplementary material not found on the standard release.
- Art Books/Booklets: Physical copies often come with beautifully designed art books or booklets featuring production stills, concept art, and historical information related to the film and its restoration process.
- Digital Copies: Many Blu-ray releases now include a digital code redeemable for a digital copy of the film, allowing you to watch it on multiple devices.
A Deep Dive into the Bonus Content:
While specific bonus content may vary depending on the edition and retailer, the They Shall Not Grow Old Blu-ray generally includes a rich selection of supplementary materials that deepen the viewer’s understanding and appreciation of the film. These can include:
- The Making of They Shall Not Grow Old: This in-depth documentary explores the meticulous restoration process undertaken by Peter Jackson and his team. It delves into the technical challenges of colorizing, adding sound, and stabilizing the original footage, revealing the innovative techniques used to bring these century-old images to life.
- Restoring the Color: A dedicated featurette focusing on the painstaking colorization process. Experts discuss the research involved in accurately representing the colors of uniforms, landscapes, and everyday objects from the era.
- Adding the Sound: Discover how the film’s soundscape was created, from meticulously researched sound effects to the voices of actual WWI veterans painstakingly lip-synced to the footage. This featurette highlights the crucial role sound plays in immersing the viewer in the reality of trench warfare.
- Interviews with Peter Jackson: Hear from the director himself as he discusses his motivation for undertaking the project, his personal connection to the subject matter, and the challenges and rewards of bringing these stories to a modern audience.
- Historical Context and Commentary: Historians and experts provide valuable context and commentary on the events depicted in the film, shedding light on the realities of life in the trenches, the strategies and tactics employed, and the broader historical significance of World War I.
- Deleted Scenes/Extended Footage: Some releases may include scenes or extended footage that didn’t make it into the final cut of the film, offering further glimpses into the lives of the soldiers and the challenges they faced.
- Photo Galleries: Explore a curated collection of historical photographs from World War I, providing further visual context to the events depicted in the film.
- Interactive Maps and Timelines: Navigate interactive maps of the Western Front and explore interactive timelines that detail the key events of the war, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the historical context.
- Commentary Tracks: Audio commentary tracks featuring Peter Jackson, film historians, and other experts provide further insights into the film’s production, historical accuracy, and thematic significance.
Why the Bonus Content Matters:
The bonus content included with the They Shall Not Grow Old Blu-ray is more than just supplementary material; it’s an essential component of the overall experience. It provides crucial context, enriching the viewer’s understanding of the film’s creation and the historical events it depicts. By delving into the restoration process, the bonus features illuminate the technical artistry involved and highlight the dedication and respect shown to the original footage and the soldiers whose stories it tells. Furthermore, the historical commentary and expert interviews provide invaluable insights into the broader context of World War I, deepening the viewer’s appreciation for the film’s significance.
Preserving History for Future Generations:
The They Shall Not Grow Old Blu-ray serves as a powerful testament to the importance of preserving history and making it accessible to future generations. By meticulously restoring and enhancing this archival footage, Peter Jackson and his team have not only created a compelling cinematic experience but also a valuable historical document. The bonus content further strengthens this educational aspect, providing viewers with the tools to understand the context and significance of the film and the events it depicts.
The Lasting Impact of They Shall Not Grow Old:
They Shall Not Grow Old is more than just a film; it’s a powerful reminder of the human cost of war and a tribute to the courage and resilience of those who fought in World War I. The Blu-ray release, with its wealth of bonus content, offers an even more immersive and enriching experience, allowing viewers to connect with this important piece of history on a deeper level. Whether you’re a history buff, a film enthusiast, or simply someone seeking a powerful and moving cinematic experience, the They Shall Not Grow Old Blu-ray is a must-have addition to any collection. By pre-ordering your copy and exploring the bonus content, you’ll not only experience the film in its fullest form but also contribute to the preservation of this important historical document for generations to come.
Beyond the Standard Blu-ray:
Consider exploring other related materials, such as books about World War I, documentaries about the making of the film, and online resources dedicated to preserving the memories and stories of those who served. This will enhance your understanding and appreciation of They Shall Not Grow Old and its enduring impact.
Concluding Thoughts:
The They Shall Not Grow Old Blu-ray is more than just a home video release; it’s a testament to the power of film to bring history to life and connect us with the past in meaningful ways. By pre-ordering your copy and immersing yourself in the bonus content, you’ll embark on a journey of discovery, gaining a deeper understanding of the film’s creation, the historical context of World War I, and the enduring legacy of those who served. This is a film that deserves to be seen, heard, and understood, and the Blu-ray release provides the perfect opportunity to do just that. Don’t miss out on this chance to own a piece of cinematic history and honor the memory of those who fought in the Great War.