Panasonic is introducing the Blu-ray Disc world to “Avatar” in 3D at home today, as we first reported here on May 21 and confirmed later on Sept. 1 that “Avatar” would be on Blu-ray 3D Dec. 1.
The reason for the secrecy is that the film is only available with the purchase of 2010 Panasonic VIERA 3D Full HiDef TVs through participating retailers. We also previously reported that Panasonic has contractually paid to maintain this exclusivity for more than a year before Fox will make the movie available to consumers at retail, but that has yet to be officially announced.
(See review of the Blu-ray 3D here.)
While that has angered some consumers, especially those who already bought a home 3D system, Panasonic is at least offering to do right by its own customers. Current owners of 2010 VIERA Full HD 3D Plasma TVs (VT25 Series, GT25 Series, TC-P50VT20, and TC-46PGT24) who purchased their TVs between March 10, 2010 and November 30, 2010 an opportunity to receive a complimentary Blu-ray 3D copy of “Avatar” via a mail-in request program.
For newbies, here’s the offer:
The Panasonic 3D Full HD Ultimate Pack (SRP $399.95) promotion features the “Avatar” Blu-ray 3D and two pairs of rechargeable Panasonic 3D Eyewear with the purchase of a Panasonic VIERA VT Series or GT Series Full HD 3D Plasma TV.
Participating dealers will also be offering a Panasonic System Solution Bundle promotion through January 1 that includes a Panasonic DMP-BDT100 3D Blu-ray Disc Player (SRP $249.95) or a $249.95 instant rebate toward the purchase of a Panasonic SC-BTT350 3D Home Theater In-A-Box (SRP $499.95) with the purchase of a Panasonic VIERA VT or GT Series Full HD 3D TV.
Both the 3D Ultimate Pack and System Solution Bundle promotions run simultaneously offering consumers a unique opportunity to take home AVATAR on Blu-ray 3D Disc, two pairs of Panasonic 3D Eyewear and a Panasonic 3D Blu-ray Disc Player as a bonus for purchasing a 2010 Panasonic VIERA Full HD 3D Plasma TV.
“Panasonic is proud to be the exclusive source for the debut of…”Avatar”on Blu-ray 3D Disc,” said Shiro Kitajima, president of Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company.
“We are pleased to announce this exclusive arrangement with our partners at Panasonic, especially as they have a long history of involvement with “Avatar” from its development, during the theatrical release, the Blu-ray launch and now with “Avatar” on Blu-ray 3D,” said Mike Dunn, President Worldwide, Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment.
— By Scott Hettrick