SUBMITTED BY Scooby

March 17, 2006 —

Sci Fi reports:

Warner Home Video announced that it will launch its first titles on HD DVD, starting April 18, including The Phantom of the Opera, followed in coming weeks with Batman Begins, Constantine and The Matrix, among others. Each of the titles will be available for a suggested retail price of $28.99

The HD DVDsone of two competing and non-compatible high-definition formatswill offer resolution six times higher than standard definition DVDs, with vibrant contrast and color and crisp sound (with up to 7.1 audio), the company said. HD DVD also introduces instant access to extra features with the debut of a seamless menu-bar that allows viewers to enjoy features and settings without leaving or interrupting the film.