Show off your HDTV with five classic movies on Blu-ray
You've upgraded your television to a shiny new flatscreen model. It's been delivered and you've got it all set up just how you want it. But what's the best way to test drive your new plasma or LCD TV now that you have the remote control in hand? Well, if you're into films then you'll be wanting to add a Blu-ray player to your set-up - while DVDs will look great on your new TV, you won't be getting the high definition experience you signed up for.
Five classic movies available now on Blu-ray that will show you exactly what your new television can do
1. Casablanca (1942)
Demonstrating that you don't need eye-popping colour to appreciate just how beautiful a picture your new television can deliver, this black and white classic is a perfect film to show off your new pride and joy. A love story for the ages, Casablanca features wonderful performances from a standout cast led by Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. The winner of three Oscars and consistently selected on ‘greatest movies of all time' lists, Casablanca is a suitable addition to any movie buff's collection.
2. The Godfather (1972)
Featuring a powerhouse performance from Marlon Brando as the titular head of the Corleone organised crime family and an extended cast including such talents as Al Pacino, James Caan, Robert Duvall and Diane Keaton, this most celebrated of gangster movies is now available in a Blu-ray box set along with the equally superb Part II and the rather less well received Part III. Take the opportunity to see some of cinema's most iconic scenes in stunning high definition.
3. Blade Runner (1982)
If science fiction is more your thing then Blade Runner is the perfect Blu-ray to show off your new television. Set in a neon-lit dystopian version of Los Angeles, the film revolves around the character of Rick Deckard, played by Harrison Ford, who is tasked with hunting down a group of ‘replicants' - robots disguised as humans - which are banned from use on Earth. The film boasts a unique visual style that will look fantastic on your new HDTV.
4. True Romance (1993)
Penned by Quentin Tarantino and featuring an ensemble cast bursting at the seams with unbridled talent, this oft-overlooked classic will have your eyes glued to your new set. Just look at the names involved: Christian Slater, Patricia Arquette, Christopher Walken, Dennis Hopper, Gary Oldman, Val Kilmer, Brad Pitt, Samuel L. Jackson - and many, many more besides. Directed by Tony Scott, this romantic crime caper has something for everyone.
5. Up (2009)
Surely destined to be a future classic, this Disney Pixar animation tells the tale of a pensioner man who decides to convert his house into an airship rather than allow developers to knock it down. Much to his initial annoyance, he is joined in his adventures by a young Wilderness Explorer eager to earn his ‘assisting the elderly' badge. Boasting vivid colours and a striking visual style, Up is both heartbreaking and hugely uplifting. It already looks fantastic on DVD - but it truly does come alive on Blu-ray. Make sure to add it to your collection if you really want to make your visitors jealous of your high definition set.
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If you're into movies, why not enjoy them on an LCD television
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