Speed Racer DVD details released

Warner Home video announced that Speed Racer will be appearing on both SD and Blu-ray formats on September 16, 2008.

As to pricing the SD is listed at $28.98 and the Blu-ray at $35.99, but Amazon.com already has sale prices listed at $18.99 SD and $24.95 Blu-ray, so however you plan to get it, it will likely be in these more sensible ranges.

I’m very excited for the release of the movie on DVD, obviously, if you checked out my Speed Racer review, but the special features are surprisingly lacking.  On both we get Spritle in the Big Leagues and a feature on the cars used in the film (how they never moved and how that worked, etc.)  On Blu-Ray we get a “Speed Racer: Race for the Crucible” game and a bonus digital copy of the film (??we care??)

In other words, no commentary.  You’d think the lack of features would drive down the price slightly, but perhaps that will happen as the date draws nearer.

The Western Air Temple

When last we left the Avatar crew, the gang had escaped to the western air temple with Zuko trailing behind to team up. This episode is all about Zuko trying to get in on the Aang team.

I’m a huge Zuko fan (I’d love Zutara, but creators have said it ain’t happening *sob*), so for me this is some great Zuko play time. In this episode we get to see a little more light side of Zuko–which is awkward and wonderful at the same time. The impressions scene is probably by far my favorite of the episode, as it’s a nice contrast to the usual angst-ridden Zuko we’ve known most of the show.

Mostly for me this episode was a big “FINALLY!” Now for those who don’t know, a lot of the episodes airing Nick this week are both already on the Net and on DVD. So if you can’t wait for more Avatar eps, you can check out Anime4Fans and follow the links up to the 15th episode this season. Unfortunately 16 and above are not really available (there are clips, but meh) until they air on Nick. (The others are available because they aired internationally before here, but now the US is taking the lead on Avatar eps).

Personally, I would recommend limiting yourself to Nick’s schedule (if you haven’t seen all available episodes yet) and go with one a night–if u’ve got cable. It’ll manage the need better.

This isn’t my favorite episode of season 3, but it definitely contains some choice Zuko moments. I’m just glad we’ve finally arrived at the end of the series (aka no more 6 month hiatuses). Sadly, the series will be finished after the “movies” on Saturday, but I think we can all agree it was definitely well worth the trip.

FAVORITE QUOTE:

Hello, Zuko here! But I guess you probably already know me… Sort of. Uh, so! The thing is, I have a lot of firebending experience and I’m considered to be pretty good at it! Well, you’ve seen me. You know, when I was attacking you… Uh, yeah, I guess I should apologize for that… But anyway, I’m good now! I mean, I thought I was good before, but now I realize I was bad, uh, but anyway… I think it’s time I joined your group, and taught the Avatar firebending.

Tonight look forward to “The Firebending Masters” on Nickelodeon. The episode is mostly just Aang and Zuko (which provides us with a nice character dynamic) but a couple fun Sokka quips will make it in.