Warcraft Comes to Digital HD September 13th and Blu-ray/DVD September 27th
With the incredible popularity of the "World of Warcraft" games, it was only a matter of time before someone would take advantage of it and try to turn it into a theatrical film. I wouldn't have guessed that that someone would be Duncan Jones, the man behind the films "Moon" and "Source Code," but if someone had to tackle it, I suppose it helps to go with one of the best.
That being said, the film was not warmly received, with the critics consensus leaving it a score of 29% (4.2/10) on Rotten Tomatoes and a 32/100 on Metacritic. However, audiences appeared to respond a little better to it, giving it a fair amount of favorable reviews, showing that, while it didn't do well at the box office, many of those who went to see it had a good time.
Today, Universal has announced the home release of the film, which will be coming to Digital HD September 13th and Blu-ray/DVD on September 27th.
The following special features will be included:
BLU-RAY™ EXCLUSIVES (Available on Blu-ray editions):
WARCRAFT: Bonds of Brotherhood Motion Comic: Take an interactive journey through the official WARCRAFT graphic novel with a never-before-seen motion comic that brings the story of the film’s young heroes – Prince Llane, Captain Lothar and Guardian Medivh - to life in this unique experience.
The World of Warcraft on Film: The “World of Warcraft” is much more than just a game – it is a cultural phenomenon as documented in this comprehensive multi-part feature focused on bringing the unique environs of WARCRAFT to film:
The World of Talent: Fans can learn more about the casts’ reactions to being a part of the WARCRAFT film, how they prepared for their role and the challenges they encountered during filming.
The World of VFX: The WARCRAFT universe wouldn’t exist without the tireless efforts of the VFX crew. Follow along with the filmmakers as they tell the story of how WARCRAFT came to life through VFX.
Outfitting a World: Learn how the filmmakers worked with WETA workshop, Blizzard, and acclaimed costume designer Mayes Rubeo to create the weaponry and armor that must be familiar and otherworldly at the same time, all while creating a unique aesthetic for the film.
The World of MOCAP: An overview of the creation of the Orcs and other digital characters from inception all the way through to the final execution. Through extensive footage of the actors in their MOCAP suits and live in-camera renderings during production, the audience will see the incredible effort that went into creating the Orcs.
The World of Stunts: Though much of WARCRAFT was created through extensive VFX, the fight scenes and stunts had to be very real. In this featurette, fans can learn more about the extensive fight choreography and stunt work that fueled the film’s action from beginning to end.
Madame Tussauds’ Featurette: Featurette on the making of the WARCRAFT wax figures by Madame Tussauds.
WARCRAFT Teaser: An early teaser which premiered at San Diego Comic-Con in 2013.
BLU-RAY™ and DVD BONUS FEATURES:
Deleted Scenes
Gag Reel
Origin Story
The Fandom of WARCRAFT: Delve into the history and breadth of the fandom behind the game and film, as well as the way it has influenced pop culture.
ILM: Behind the Magic of WARCRAFT: See some of the groundbreaking facial capture technology utilized by Industrial Lights & Magic to convey the emotion and depth of the visually impressive Orc characters in the film.
As expected, it looks like we'll be getting plenty about the making of the CGI-filled film, in addition to a little about the game itself. It is a little disappointing to see that there's no commentary with Duncan Jones, but I would presume that he'll be featured extensively in the featurettes.
Personally, I've yet to see the film, but I'm interested to see which side I'll fall on as far as the difference in opinion between critics and casual moviegoers is concerned. If you were a fan of it in theaters or just need to catch up on it (like me), those dates again are September 13th for Digital HD and September 27th for Blu-ray/DVD, so be sure to take note.
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