Gladiator R1 or R2

[Sachin]

Whichh is better Gladiator R1 or R2

[Jimmyboy]

I think all regions are the same except the R1 has slightly better audio in theory, in practise all the reviews that took the time to do a region compare noticed no real difference.

[SithLordSi]

The obvious perk of any PAL DVD is higher resolution. If picture quality is your main concern, you won't go far wrong with the UK R2 version. It's a Columbia/Universal disc, and they are well known for turning out excellent transfers. However, the picture quality of the R1 version is reportedly very good also, being a Dreamworks release.

The audio is likely to be slightly better on the R1 version, as the bitrate is probably higher than on the PAL versions due to the NTSC video taking up less space. Also, the R1 features a dts-es track as opposed to the UK R2's dts. Nothing to worry about unless you have a very decent surround set-up. However, the R1 audio is at the correct pitch, although I didn't notice the speed-up on the R2, as I'm not that familiar with the movie (and because Crowe's voice is so deep anyway!).

Extras-wise, the biggest difference is in the trailers. On the R1 they are in widescreen (possibly anamorphic) and in 5.1, but on the UK R2 they are pan & scan with stereo surround. Everything else is pretty much identical, including the menus (with obvious small differences).

Finally, the packaging differs a little. The R2 is a double Amaray (slim case) with Universal's usual cover layout. The R1 is (I think) a double alpha (fat case) with Dreamworks' cover design incorporating the dts logo all over the place. Both feature the same (pretty naff) poster design of a heavily Photoshopped Crowe superimposed poorly onto the background.

There, everything you could possibly want to know! Personally, I'm regretting not going for the R1 slightly, as I love trailers and I prefer Dreamworks' overall packaging (plus the promise of slightly higher quality, correctly pitched audio). However, if you don't want any fuss obtaining it and you favour PAL, you won't be disappointed by the UK R2 version.

[Sachin]

Sorry i think i've posted this in the wrong area, it should be in Region comparisons

[Robby]

Originally posted by SithLordSi
The R2 is a double Amaray (slim case) with Universal's usual cover layout. The R1 is (I think) a double alpha (fat case).

The R1 is also a double amaray slim case.

[stephen]

I'd go for the R4 which is also coded for R2. I got it for £10 delivered from www.ezydvd.com.au, but they might have taken it off offer now.