Disney will finally start releasing its biggest movies in Dolby Vision on UHD Blu-ray discs. The studio previously reserved Dolby Vision for online releases.
Except for 2018's The Last Jedi, Black Panther and James Cameron titles, Disney has opted for the base HDR10 format when releasing UHD Blu-rays in the past.
The studio has never provided a clear explanation for the decision, which has frustrated some collectors, as Disney typically releases the same titles in Dolby Vision format on VOD and Disney+.
Disney embraces Dolby Vision
This is about to change, as "most if not all future 4K Blu-ray releases" will be in Dolby Vision, the company has confirmed to Forbes.
This includes the upcoming Deadpool & Wolverine (October 22) and Alien: Romulus (December 3) UHD Blu-ray releases.
Both Deadpool & Wolverine and Alien: Romulus will be in Dolby Vision on UHD Blu-ray
Once again, Disney has not commented on the exact reason behind the change of heart. However, it may be related to the fact that Disney recently outsourced physical disc distribution to Sony Pictures.
Still 66GB discs
Despite embracing Dolby Vision, UHD Blu-ray releases from Disney will still be limited to 66GB discs rather than the higher-capacity 100GB discs that allow studios to increase the video bitrate.
Regardless, it is good news that Disney's future physical releases will finally be available in a premium HDR format. While availability of content in the competing HDR10+ format has grown in recent years, Dolby Vision continues to be the premium HDR format of choice in Hollywood.
Also read: Disney's brief and cool love affair with Ultra HD Blu-ray
All major TV makers, except Samsung, support Dolby Vision.
- Source: Forbes
