Discover why blu ray collectors choose 88 Films - a beginners guide for new collectors
Introducing 88 Films - a leading independent film distribution company that offers a wide range of classic and cult movies on blu-ray and DVD. With an impressive collection of over 300 titles, 88 Films is dedicated to bringing the best in genre cinema to fans around the world.
If you are a beginner movie collector and just starting off your blu ray collection and wondering which label to collect and which label has what films, then this guide is for you.
1. What is 88 Films, and why is it the ultimate destination for classic and cult movies?
88 Films is a UK-based home entertainment company that specializes in the release of classic and cult movies on blu ray and DVD.
The company was founded in 2012 by two film enthusiasts who wanted to create a platform for fans of genre cinema to discover and enjoy lesser-known titles from around the world. 88 Films has since become the ultimate destination for fans of classic and cult movies, with an extensive catalog of titles that spans a wide range of genres, including horror, action, sci-fi, and martial arts; it is this latter genre that Asian cinema fans love about 88 Films.
The company prides itself on its commitment to quality, with each release featuring high-definition transfers, restored audio, and a wealth of bonus features that give fans a deeper insight into the making of each movie, as well as deluxe boxsets with lots of physical extras like hard- back books or specially designed posters.
Whether you're a hardcore movie buff or simply looking for something different to watch, 88 Films has something for everyone.
2. Types of movies available on 88 Films, and how they are presented in high definition
88 Films offers a diverse range of movies from around the world, with a particular focus on classic and cult titles that have been overlooked by mainstream distributors. The company's catalogue includes everything from gory horror movies like ALICE, SWEET ALICE to explosive Van Damme action flicks, and from quirky comedies to mind-bending sci-fi thrillers (SURF NAZIS MUST DIE).
Each movie is presented in high definition, with a focus on restoring the original picture and sound quality to the highest possible standard. This means that fans can enjoy their favourite movies in stunning detail, with vibrant colours, sharp contrasts, and crystal-clear audio that brings every scene to life.
In addition to the high-quality transfers, 88 Films also includes a range of bonus features on each release, including commentary tracks, behind-the-scenes documentaries, and interviews with the cast and crew.
3. What is blu ray, and why is it the preferred format for movie collectors and enthusiasts?
Blu-ray is a high-definition optical disc format that was introduced in 2006 as a successor to DVD. The format is capable of storing much more data than DVD, allowing for higher-quality video and audio, as well as a range of interactive features. Blu-ray discs are typically encoded in 1080p resolution, which is the highest quality available for home video. This makes them the preferred format for movie collectors and enthusiasts, who value the superior picture and sound quality that Blu-ray offers. In addition, Blu-ray discs often come with a range of bonus features, such as behind-the-scenes documentaries and commentary tracks, which provide fans with a deeper insight into the making of their favourite movies.
The introduction of next generation formats like 4K and Ultra High Def (UHD) have yet to hit mainstream adoption at the time of writing, but as usual with technology adoption, when consumers look to purchase their next TV and players, they will naturally have 4K capabilities as standard, so the next gen of physical media will then start to take off.
4. How does 88 Films ensure the highest quality of movies, both in terms of content and presentation?
88 Films is committed to ensuring the highest possible quality of movies, both in terms of content and presentation. The company carefully selects each title in its catalogue based on a range of criteria, including its historical significance, cultural impact, and artistic merit. Once a title has been selected, 88 Films works closely with the original distributors and filmmakers to ensure that the movie is presented in the best possible way.
This involves restoring the original picture and sound quality to the highest possible standard, as well as including a range of bonus features that provide fans with a deeper insight into the making of the movie. In addition, 88 Films works closely with film archives and restoration teams to ensure that rare and obscure titles are preserved for future generations to enjoy.
5. Popular Hong Kong action movies available on 88 Films, and why they are highly regarded
88 Films has a strong focus on Hong Kong action movies, which are renowned for their fast-paced action sequences, intricate fight choreography, and over-the-top stunts.
Some of the most popular Hong Kong action movies available on 88 Films include OPERATION CONDOR, DRAGONS FOREVER (both starring Jackie Chan) and kung fu films from the golden era of the Shaw Brothers studio such as THE EIGHT DIAGRAM POLE FIGHTER and COME DRINK WITH ME.
These movies are highly regarded by fans of the genre for their innovative use of martial arts, their complex characters, and their thrilling plotlines. Many of these movies also feature iconic performances by actors such as Jackie Chan, Jet Li, and Chow Yun Fat, who have become synonymous with the Hong Kong action movie genre.
6. How does 88 Films choose which movies to release, and what criteria do they use?
88 Films has a rigorous selection process for choosing which movies to release, based on a range of criteria. The company looks for movies that are historically significant, culturally important, and artistically innovative, as well as movies that have a dedicated fan base.
88 Films also considers the availability of the movie, as well as the potential for restoration and bonus features. In addition, the company takes into account feedback from fans and critics, as well as trends in the movie industry, to ensure that its catalog remains relevant and diverse.
7. What is Category III, and how does it relate to the Hong Kong movie industry?
Category III is a classification system used by the Hong Kong government to regulate the content of movies. Movies that are classified as Category III are considered to be unsuitable for minors, and may contain scenes of violence, sex, or drug use. The Category III classification has had a significant impact on the Hong Kong movie industry, as it has led to the creation of a subgenre of movies that are known for their extreme content.
These movies are often referred to as "CatIII movies," and have become popular with cult-film fans for their boundary-pushing content and taboo-breaking themes.
CATIII movies fit in very well with the branding of 88 Films with the 80s and 90s B-movie horror genre films that are on the label.
8. Notable Category III movies available on 88 Films, and what makes them controversial
88 Films has a range of Category III movies available in its catalog, including some of the most controversial and boundary-pushing titles from the Hong Kong movie industry. Some of the most notable Category III movies available on 88 Films include THE UNTOLD STORY, EBOLA SYNDROME (both starring CATIII King, Anthony Wong) and EROTIC GHOST STORY and ROBOTRIX which are both great examples of the more titillating side of the CATIII rating, and if Anthony Wong is the CATIII King, then surely Amy Yip, who stars in both of these films, is the actress who is the most synonymous with CATIII movies.
These movies are controversial for their extreme violence, graphic sex scenes, and taboo-breaking themes. They are also notable for their innovative use of genre conventions, and their willingness to push the boundaries of what is considered acceptable in mainstream cinema.
9. How 88 Films caters to fans of the Shaw Brothers movie studio, and iconic Shaw Brothers movies available
88 Films has a strong focus on the Shaw Brothers movie studio, which was one of the most influential and prolific movie studios in Hong Kong during the 1960s and 1970s. The studio was known for its lavish productions, intricate fight choreography, and iconic stars such as Bruce Lee, Jimmy Wang Yu, and Ti Lung.
88 Films has a range of iconic Shaw Brothers movies available in its catalogue, including LEGENDARY WEAPONS OF CHINA and DISCIPLES OF SHAOLIN.
These movies are highly regarded by fans of the genre for their innovative use of martial arts, their complex characters, and their thrilling plotlines.
10. Special features and bonus content on 88 Films releases, and how they enhance the viewing experience
88 Films is known for its extensive range of special features and bonus content, which enhance the viewing experience and provide fans with a deeper insight into the making of each movie. These features may include commentary tracks by the filmmakers or cast members, behind-the-scenes documentaries, deleted scenes, and interviews with the stars.
In addition, 88 Films often includes rare and obscure content, such as trailers, TV spots, and promotional materials, that provide a fascinating glimpse into the history of each movie. These special features and bonus content make each 88 Films release a must-have for fans of classic and cult movies.
11. Benefits of collecting movies on physical media, as opposed to streaming or downloading them digitally
Collecting movies on physical media has a range of benefits over streaming or downloading them digitally. Firstly, physical media offers superior picture and sound quality, as well as a range of bonus features that provide a deeper insight into the making of each movie.
Secondly, physical media allows fans to build a collection of movies that they can display and share with others, especially with the new artwork and illustrations that boutique blu ray labels are now producing to reimagine the film, creating a sense of community and connection with other fans of the genre.
Much like displaying a record collection or book collection on your shelf, there's nothing quite like the feeling of unboxing your latest blu ray arrival, admiring the quality of the product, the artwork and exploring what additional extras are included inside the box.
Finally, physical media offers a sense of permanence and nostalgia that is missing from digital media, as each disc becomes a tangible artifact of the movie's history.
12. How 88 Films supports independent filmmakers and lesser-known movies, and hidden gems available
88 Films is committed to supporting independent filmmakers and lesser-known movies, and has a range of hidden gems available in its catalog. The company recognizes the importance of preserving and celebrating movies that may have been overlooked by mainstream distributors, and works closely with filmmakers and distributors to bring these movies to a wider audience. Some of the hidden gems available on 88 Films include obscure horror movies, forgotten action flicks, and quirky comedies that have developed a cult following over the years.
88 Films is poised to lead the way in preserving and celebrating these cinematic treasures.
Conclusion:
As a leading home entertainment company specialising in classic and cult movies, 88 Films offers fans a diverse range of high-quality titles presented in high definition, new reimagined collectible artwork, extra bonus material like books and posters.
With a strong focus on preserving and celebrating lesser-known movies, including hidden gems and Category III films, 88 Films is ensuring that these cinematic treasures are preserved for future generations to enjoy.