1978 Dawn of the Dead DVD

[themaze75]

Anyone owns Dawn of the Dead (the 1978 version)?

I can see two DVDs out there... the "ultimate edition" and the "divimax" edition.

Anyone seen the ultimate edition package? Seems full of stock (4 dvds)... I'm just wondering if it's worth the extra 20-25$...

[Mr. Grey]

Anyone owns Dawn of the Dead (the 1978 version)?

I can see two DVDs out there... the "ultimate edition" and the "divimax" edition.

Anyone seen the ultimate edition package? Seems full of stock (4 dvds)... I'm just wondering if it's worth the extra 20-25$...
I have both. I would say that the ultimate edition is worth it. You get to see the different versions of the film and what they did or did not cut out of each one.

[Captain Boosh]

Not to mention a lot of extra bonus behind the scenes and look back type stuff. Ken Foree and escalator zombie taking a tour of fans through the mall in present day. Etc. etc.

The Divimax Special Edition doesn't have much more than a really good commentary. But, at least it has the exploding head.

My friend has the ultimate edition, and it's quite scary at how much stuff there is to go through to watch it all (but in a good way). Worth every penny if you're a true fan.

[JohnDRobinson]

I have both also. The "Ultimate Edition" is for the serious fans of the movie. I enjoyed the docs on the forth disc. Especially seeing "Document of the Dead" again was a treat. It takes pride next to my "Clerks X" box set.

[Bad Zombie Night]

I considered buying the Divimax Edition, but when it was announced that the Ultimate Edition was coming out, I nixed that idea right outta my head.

I you decide on getting the Ultimate Edition set, don't forget to check out all the Easter Eggs on them too.

[themaze75]

I you decide on getting the Ultimate Edition set, don't forget to check out all the Easter Eggs on them too.

You guys are making me seriously consider the Ultimate Edition... but I think you got the proper argument (and impeccable timing) that settles it all for me: Easter Eggs on a Zombie movie (http://www.zombiescomic.com/index.php?Announcements&comic=10).

Can't miss out on that...

I've heard about differences between the cinema version vs the "uncut" version. Any great relevant differences in there? Heard there's two distinct endings.

I'm sad to say I haven't seen the original Dawn yet, so try not to give me any spoilers ;)

[Zombie-A-GoGo]

I also suggest getting the Ultimate Edition. I've owned many-a-copy of Dawn over the years, and this one is by far the most comprehensive. Oh, and there are differences between the Theatrical Cut, the Director's Cut and Argento's Cut, but frankly, between the Theatrical and the Director's, you might not see them so easily unless you've watched one or the other a bunch of times. Argento's is pretty different in terms of shots used and music. There are no differences between the endings.

[JohnnyZombie]

You guys are making me seriously consider the Ultimate Edition... but I think you got the proper argument (and impeccable timing) that settles it all for me: Easter Eggs on a Zombie movie (http://www.zombiescomic.com/index.php?Announcements&comic=10).

Can't miss out on that...

I've heard about differences between the cinema version vs the "uncut" version. Any great relevant differences in there? Heard there's two distinct endings.

I'm sad to say I haven't seen the original Dawn yet, so try not to give me any spoilers ;)

I suggest renting it before buying it, because if you're a new fan to the genre inspired by your love for the Dawn remake, you might not like it. I hear alot of idiots talk about how superior the remake is to the original.

There are big differences between all three versions, but none that take a large detour from the main plot development; and there are no alternate endings. The major difference between the three versions is mostly added shots and short scenes, and music. But, however small they be, these changes were enough to alter the mood of each film.

[corgi37]

I cant imagine life without having seen Dawn.

[themaze75]

I suggest renting it before buying it, because if you're a new fan to the genre inspired by your love for the Dawn remake, you might not like it. I hear alot of idiots talk about how superior the remake is to the original.

The remake was nice, but I'm very interrested in getting the original. Since I love the original Night of the Living Dead, I figure I have nothing to loose.

And a zombie fan gotsa have his classics, no? :P

[Divided Soul]

The remake was nice, but I'm very interrested in getting the original. Since I love the original Night of the Living Dead, I figure I have nothing to loose.

And a zombie fan gotsa have his classics, no? :P
Your damn straight

[Machete]

I bought the Divimax edition the second it came out. Naturally, the Ultimate edition came out shortly thereafter pissing me off to no end. As much as I love the movie, I won't play that game and as a loyal fan, I feel cheated and ripped off. So no, I won't buy the Ultimate edition unless they plan to cut a check for the Divimax version.

[Slumlord]

I'm also considering Ultimate Edition vs. Divimax and to be honest with you guys I really don't give a damn about documenteries or behind the scenes stuff. I never watch any of it. As far as extras go I'll watch the trailers or cut scenes but that's it. I never listen to the commentary because after a few minutes I start thinking "Hey, I wanna watch the movie without someone babbling in the background."

So, with that in mind can someone please spoil me and tell me the differences between the theatrical, extended, and Euro versions of Dawn of the Dead that are included? Please feel free to spoil me with exact differences because we're talkin' $30 bucks here. If there is a huge difference and the extended version has a super gory scene they were unable to put on the silver screen then I wanna know but if the extra footage is like... two guys talking about pizza or something, then I could care less and I saved a few bucks. I already know that the documentary disc would just sit there and I'd never watch it.

The local video joint has 1 copy of each and I looked at them and thought I better ask first before making a decision.

[corgi37]

There is simply no excuse for not having the UE. It has so much. If you dont have the Euro or extended versions, babies, you need it.

The extended version is great. I love it. Pity the sound aint 5.1

Euro version is really truncated, but still enjoyable. I prefer to watch that version when i want a Dawn fix, but cant be bothered going through all the talkie scenes. Its sort of Dawn-lite.

But, the normal theatrical version is the bees knees.

UE is a great package. For once, the extras are truly great. The commentaries are fantastic, escpecially the cast one. They are having a ball and it is infectious (like a zombie bite! hahaha).

[Darth Erroneous]

I'm also considering Ultimate Edition vs. Divimax and to be honest with you guys I really don't give a damn about documenteries or behind the scenes stuff. I never watch any of it. As far as extras go I'll watch the trailers or cut scenes but that's it. I never listen to the commentary because after a few minutes I start thinking "Hey, I wanna watch the movie without someone babbling in the background."

So, with that in mind can someone please spoil me and tell me the differences between the theatrical, extended, and Euro versions of Dawn of the Dead that are included? Please feel free to spoil me with exact differences because we're talkin' $30 bucks here. If there is a huge difference and the extended version has a super gory scene they were unable to put on the silver screen then I wanna know but if the extra footage is like... two guys talking about pizza or something, then I could care less and I saved a few bucks. I already know that the documentary disc would just sit there and I'd never watch it.

The local video joint has 1 copy of each and I looked at them and thought I better ask first before making a decision.

Theatrical is the version that was re-released by Divimax. I have'nt watched the Euro version, but I believe it is shorter than the theatrical to speed it up a little. Extended doesn't have much to speak of. I heard that Romero actually prefered the theatrical. Anyone correct me if I am wrong.

The coolest part about the UE is the huge black box with embossed blood-red lettering on it. It sits on my DVD rack right next to the Divimax version and DOTD 04. It looks bad @$$ whenever someone peruses my collection. Maybe don't buy it brand new, but definately try to find it used. It needs to be on your shelf!

[Vash]

I got the Ultimate Edition of it. Well worth the price.

[Slumlord]

Is it just me or does this seem kind of pointless?

Zombi (Dawn of the Dead - Dario Argento version) (http://www.anchorbayentertainment.com/index.asp?p=CatalogDetail&SKU=DV13730&PriCatID=3)

I mean, he deleted the part with the zombie getting his forehead cut off from the chopper blades. That's one of my favorite scenes. Lot of background sounds are missing also. For example, like where the zombie knocks over the speed limit sign or whatever in the parking lot. Theatrical version we get a loud clear metallic "CLUNK!", Extended version we get a faint muffled "clunk!" (because of the crappy mono sound) and the Euro version... nothing. Not that I heard anyway.

As a stand alone purchase, I'd avoid it and just stick with the theatrical version and save a little cash.

[The Blind Dead]

As a stand alone purchase, I'd avoid it and just stick with the theatrical version and save a little cash.
Unless you're a rabid Argento fan and you have Zombie 2, 3, 4, & 5 on your shelf. I know some that will be getting it just to finish their Zombie series.

Me...I'm happy with my Ultimate Edition. That is...until they come out with the Supreme Edition. :doh:

[Slumlord]

I woulda just been happy with the Divimax Theatrical release but my disc was defective and the store only had the Ultimate Edition left so I paid the extra $15 for the exchange.

I skipped through the Euro version only watching bits and pieces and watched extended once but the extra footage was nothing exciting. Barely watched the docu disc although it was interesting to see what everyone looked like nowadays.

[Bad Zombie Night]

Is it just me or does this seem kind of pointless?

Zombi (Dawn of the Dead - Dario Argento version) (http://www.anchorbayentertainment.com/index.asp?p=CatalogDetail&SKU=DV13730&PriCatID=3)

I mean, he deleted the part with the zombie getting his forehead cut off from the chopper blades. That's one of my favorite scenes. Lot of background sounds are missing also. For example, like where the zombie knocks over the speed limit sign or whatever in the parking lot. Theatrical version we get a loud clear metallic "CLUNK!", Extended version we get a faint muffled "clunk!" (because of the crappy mono sound) and the Euro version... nothing. Not that I heard anyway.


Isn't this Dario Argento version just another title for the European Version?
SL... In addition to the helicopter Zombie scene getting edited, I think they also cut out most the of the comedy routines (ex. pie fight scene). http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y152/bzn123/Smileys/Characters/1bnz_smiley.gif

[Nemesis]

I'm not sure which DOTD '78 DVD to buy. I've seen a few different ones, I would like to know how they differ, which has better extras, and so on.

[Zombie Survivor]

I've got the Trilogy of the Dead DVD box, so I can't be of any assistance because DotD was already in the box (together with Night and Day of course)

[Darth Erroneous]

The Divimax Special Edition has all of your standard special features, such as commentaries, trailers, radio spots, etc. The DOTD: Ultimate Edition has some additional features that you won't find on the SE. I think that you would be fine just getting the SE.

[Nemesis]

Alright, thanks for the info guys.

[eardrumbuz]

If you've got the extra $$, go for the Ultimate Edition. Includes U.S. and Euro theatrical releases, as well as the uncut version (Romero prefers the cut he originally released and I think I agree, but it's great to see what was left out). I don't know which things on the extra disc are already included in the Special Edition, but then there's also the comic book and the package itself, which are both really cool.

[Slumlord]

First, I'm just going to say forget the Euro version. It's just too butchered and I would have liked to have the dubbing left in just for the hell of it.

Anyway, Divimax theatrical has been totally remastered with both sound and video. It's awesome.

Extended is pretty good. You get a little extra talky-talky, a head-shot with two bullets fired close-range but only one exit wound. Another scene has an area being scoped out by Peter and Roger that is devoid of any zombies and then two minutes later is swarming with them. Extra scenes of shopping. Fran's boobs have better lighting so they are visible. And original 'library' music (I think that's what it's called) so alot of tunes you'd remember are missing and replaced with some eerie string music. An extra scene at the waterfront that has Rhodes and company looting the place. Not sure why that was cut, maybe because it makes you wonder why Peter and Roger didn't attack since the looters may have killed everyone inside the police station (I dunno, just a theory) Sound wasn't remastered for this version.

I think that's about it. Can anyone else point out some differences or shed more light on why things were cut?

[Darth Erroneous]

...An extra scene at the waterfront that has Rhodes and company looting the place.

The same Rhodes from Day?

[Slumlord]

The same Rhodes from Day?

Well, no... same actor though.

[eardrumbuz]

An extra scene at the waterfront that has Rhodes and company looting the place. Not sure why that was cut, maybe because it makes you wonder why Peter and Roger didn't attack since the looters may have killed everyone inside the police station (I dunno, just a theory) Sound wasn't remastered for this version.

they also start to talk about that scene in the audio commentary on disc 1, then they realise they're started talking about a scene that was cut.

the audio commentary is a fun listen.

[zombiekilling101]

I have both as well, and the Ultimate Edition is well worth it, especially if your a big fan of the movie, and seeing that this is an ALL THINGS ZOMBIE site.. uh nevermind.