Panasonic is one-upping Samsung by offering not one but two 3D Blu-ray titles with the purchase of not two products but only one — a Panasonic 3D TV.
“Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs,” from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, and “Coraline,” from Universal Studios Home Entertainment, are offered via mail-in coupon with the purchase of a Panasonic Viera VT25 full HiDef 3D plasma TV for any purchases made this week through July 10.
In March, Samsung began offering the first 3D Blu-ray movie, DreamWorks’ “Monsters vs. Aliens,“ with the purchase of a Samsung 3D TV and Blu-ray player. That offer expired Sunday, May 16, the same day Panasonic’s offer began.
None of the three 3D Blu-ray movies with the Panasonic and Samsung products are available for purchase or rental separately. The first 3D Blu-ray title for traditional retail consumption has yet to be released, though Sony is expected to be the first with “Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs” and Universal’s “Coraline,” both with the participation of the filmmakers.
“Panasonic is very proud of its long-standing relationships within the Hollywood community and our work together to lead the charge into the 3D era,” said Henry Hauser, Vice President, Panasonic Display Group.
Panasonic’s Viera VT25 series plasma 3D TVs, which are available in sizes of 50-inch (SRP $2,599.95), 54-inch (SRP $2,999.95) 58-inch (SRP $3,399.95), and 65-inch (SRP $4,299.95), include one pair of Panasonic 3D active shutter glasses (SRP $149.95).
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Panasonic with Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs as our debut title in the Blu-ray 3D format,” said Mary Daily, Fox executive vice president, marketing. “There may be a couple of times that are considered game changers in the industry and this is that moment for home entertainment.”
“We are happy to partner with Panasonic on this exceptional opportunity to bring the 3D hi-def experience into homes,” said Universal’s Robert Read, vice president, HD marketing and franchise management. “Coraline’s rich tapestry of visually stunning stop-motion animation is an ideal choice to introduce consumers to the unmatched potential of Blu-ray 3D and is sure to help stoke interest and demand for what is hands down the most dynamic and robust home-viewing experience available in high definition.”
— By Scott Hettrick