Fraggle DVD coming this summer in the US

[Phillip Chapman]

As the rumors have been discussed over the past few weeks, it is true that HIT is testing the market with a two-episode Fraggle DVD. The DVD will include episode 1 "Beginnings" and episode 3 "Let the Water Run".

More two-episode discs are likely or if the sales are good enough, a season box set is possible down the road. Find out the details and then vote in the above poll to let us know what you think about this release.

http://www.muppetcentral.com/news/2004/061804.shtml (http://www.muppetcentral.com/news/2004/061804.shtml)

Also, this story was released yesterday which will likely have a direct reflection on Fraggle sales, Wal-Mart is cutting shelf space for home entertainment products, specifically children's DVD's and videos. This counts for 42% of HIT's total sales. The below article estimates that Wal-Mart could return up to 3 million HIT video products.
HIT blow as Wal-Mart cuts space for products

By Tim Burt in London
Published: June 17 2004 22:25 | Last Updated: June 17 2004 22:25

Wal-Mart, the US mass market retailer, on Thursday told HIT Entertainment that it was cutting shelf space for home entertainment products - a mainstay of HIT's sales - sending shares in the UK animation group down 28.3 per cent.

HIT shares fell 83p to 210p after the animation group behind Bob the Builder and Barney the Dinosaur issued its first profits warning.

Wal-Mart's decision is also expected to affect other producers of children's videos including Walt Disney, Sony Pictures and Warner Brothers.

HIT said profits for the year ending July 31 would be 15 to 20 per cent below expectations following the move, which could see Wal-Mart return 3m unsold videos or six months' stock to the British company.

Industry analysts had previously forecast pre-tax profits of £40.7m ($74m) for the current financial year, compared with £39.7m last time.

HIT refused to confirm Wal-Mart was the retailer at the centre of the profits warning. But it admitted the issue would "have a negative impact on current trading and returns".

Rob Lawes, chief executive, said: "Despite this disappointing development, HIT remains a highly profitable company with one of the strongest portfolios of young children's properties and a strong home entertainment release schedule in the months ahead."

The setback follows a concerted drive by HIT to increase its presence in the US, which already accounts for 60 per cent of its total sales.

Earlier this month the company confirmed plans to take a stake in a new digital channel aimed at pre-school children. The company also secured global distribution rights recently for Henson Family Classics - part of the Jim Henson Company from which HIT was formed in the late 1980s.

The reduction in shelf space at Wal-Mart will affect HIT's home entertainment division, accounting for 42 per cent of total sales.

Officials warned there was little visibility on the impact for sales and profits in the next financial year.

The company is expected to set aside an unquantified provision for unsold home entertainment products.

Analysts said that, at worst, on Thursday's warning would wipe £8m off this year's profits. But uncertainty would continue during the next 12 months until Wal-Mart clarified its plans.

http://news.ft.com/servlet/ContentServer?pagename=FT.com/StoryFT/FullStory&c=StoryFT&cid=1087373088517 (http://news.ft.com/servlet/ContentServer?pagename=FT.com/StoryFT/FullStory&c=StoryFT&cid=1087373088517)

[Fozzie Bear]

HIT also does Barney?? EGADS! The connection I've always feared!!

heh heh...

I'd pay a big price for a complete episode dvd box set no doubt, but if you're talking about one dvd per season, the first option of the poll isn't bad at all.

[wembleyfraggle]

I just recieved this e-mail from HIT Entertainment!

Thank you for your recent inquiry on Fraggle Rock. HIT Entertainment is pleased to announce the release of Fraggle Rock Where It All Began on VHS/DVD. You will be able to purchase this title at Wal-Mart at the end of July. You may also visit our webstore at the end of July to order directly from our company. www.hitstoreusa.com (http://www.hitstoreusa.com/)

Thank you for your interest in HIT Entertainment.

Kris
HIT Entertainment Consumer Relations
:smirk: :excited: July Baby!!!! At Walmart!!!!
Tyler

[Phillip Chapman]

What do you think of the episode choices for the DVD, "Beginnings" and "Let the Water Run"? Interesting that they skipped over episode 2, "Wembley and the Gorgs".

[wembleyfraggle]

I like the choice but they should have done 1-3 not just 1 and 3! I'm excited to see the cover art!

[Fozzie Bear]

Cool! I know I'm buying in hopes that more will be oncoming!

[Foodie]

What do you think of the episode choices for the DVD, "Beginnings" and "Let the Water Run"? Interesting that they skipped over episode 2, "Wembley and the Gorgs".

I'd prefer that they were in order but maybe they felt that the gorgs were to un-refined in that episode so they decided to hold off on releasing it. Ma looks awful in the first 13 episodes.

So, is Wal*Mart the only place carrying this particular DVD?
:smirk:

Nick

[Wembley]

Don't worry. If anyone wants, I can pick up copies at WM and ship 'em out to the non-us folks, or to anyone who'se walmart does not stock them. I live near a Super Walmart and they have a huge area full of HIT stuff.

-Rick

[BabyBeanBunny]

Sweet Mercy! They should just go with a DVD season, but just one DVD at a time, it would be great! Hurray!!!

But I hope it'll be available in Canada. I'm still rather disappointed that I can't get the remaining Muppet Show Discs.

[Boober_Gorg]

I'd prefer that they were in order but maybe they felt that the gorgs were to un-refined in that episode so they decided to hold off on releasing it.That couldn't be the reason. The Gorgs look the same in both episodes 2 and 3. ;)

[scarecroe]

I voted the highest price. I'll pay anything for boxed sets.

Has HIT seen the petition?

http://www.petitiononline.com/Fraggle/

[Phillip Chapman]

Has HIT seen the petition?
Apparently some at HIT have seen it. But it's great to have it linked to this discussion so more folks can be reminded of the demand. It's wonderful to see more than 26,000 signatures. That speaks volumes. Hopefully we will eventually see all 96 episodes released in four box sets, even if it takes a few two-episode releases to convince HIT of the demand.

[Sir Didymus]

Oh i am so thankful they are releasing a Fraggle Dvd! I don't care if it only has 2 episodes, I'm just glad my dream has come true!!

Dance your cares away!

Didymus

[McFraggle]

Me too, it's a lot better than paying $15+ for a 10-year-old used VHS.

[janicegroupie]

I have to agree with you guys. Any Fraggle dvd is better than nothing. I am totally excited that it is really coming out and can not wait to own it! :excited:

[Erine81981]

SAME HERE!!! Dance your cares away down at FRAGGLE FREAK'IN ROCK!!!! *wooping and howlering* :excited:

[Foodie]

That couldn't be the reason. The Gorgs look the same in both episodes 2 and 3. ;)

It's been a while, were the gorgs in #3?
:smirk:

Nick

[Boober_Gorg]

Yes indeed.

MA: Sire, tell your son what our royal ancestor King Gorg the Great used to say.
PA: He would say ... "There is always water!"
JUNIOR: Oh, right. There is always water!

[AndyL]

I'd certainly pay a good amount for a boxed set. It would be worth it to have every episode at my fingertips like that.

However, I'd be considerably less enthused about buying some kind of piece-meal "Best Of" collection. To me, the whole point of being able to buy a series on dvd is to have the whole thing from start to finish. I certainly wouldn't be able to afford the whole series at $13-$17 per two episode disk! ($624-$816!!!)

A quick look at HIT's web-site does not encourage me. It looks to me like they tend to pick out the few they think people will remember best and forget the rest. I don't see any boxed sets on their web site. Somebody please tell me I'm wrong.

I'm planning on buying this first one as soon as it comes out, It'll be great to see the Fraggles in nice DVD quality.... but I really, really hope it's followed up by a boxed set, otherwise I don't think I'll have the money or patience to buy the whole lot of them. Pity.

[Fozzie Bear]

Hey, didn't Jerry Nelson and Karen Prell sign that petition as well?? Anybody writing directly to HIT? I think I am going to write to them and link back to this thread. I want them to see this all for sure so we can HOPEFULLY get the full series in chronological order on DVD.

[Fozzie Bear]

They did sign the petition, along with Terry Angus and Mike Quinn.

I'm sending email to HIT and Jim Henson Company, you should, too. They should know the love and interest in these characters!!
-----------------------------------
Fanmail@henson.com
consumerservices@hitentertainment.com
-----------------------------------
Hi,

I participate at a Muppets' Fan Forum, www.muppetcentral.com, and we are also all huge Fraggle Rock fans.

We're very excited about the possibility of Fraggle Rock DVDs being released, and understand that you're going to release one dvd with episodes 1 and 3 on there.

We've even dedicated a poll and thread regarding this release, and would welcome your company's input to this thread as well: http://forum.muppetcentral.com/showthread.php?t=14841&page=1&pp=15

We fans would really like it if you checked out the petition at: http://www.petitiononline.com/Fraggle/
Per the petition, there are already 26,780 total signatures, with more to come, I'm sure. The current tally of signatures includes those of performers Jerry Nelson (Gobo Fraggle signature #180) and Karen Prell (Red Fraggle, signature #5), Terry Angus (performer, puppet builder, signature #30), Mike Quinn (signature # 582, Karen's husband, Muppet performer Ghost of Faffner Hall, etc).

It would be mutually beneficial if you released the entire series in chronological order to give the fans what they desire and in turn reap the benefits of great DVD sales!!

The fast-selling Fraggle Rock dolls from Sababa is proof that the collector's market indeed desires Fraggles in a world torn with problems, because the Fraggles did represent peace and taught the world that peace is an option, that we can all get together despite our differences!! There has never been any other program ever created with such a worldly impact as Fraggle Rock, whether viewed by children or adults.

Never more than today have we needed the Fraggles and their message!!

Please, for the sake of the world, release the entirety of Fraggle Rock on DVD.

Sincerely,
Kevin L. Williams
"Fozzie Bear" at Muppet Central forums

[King Prawn]

Very well written out Kevin :)

I hope HIT at least consider the possibilities of box sets rather than best of collections.

[Fozzie Bear]

Their response:

Thank you for contacting us. HIT Entertainment is pleased to announce the release of Fraggle Rock Where It All Began on VHS/DVD. You will be able to purchase this title at Wal-Mart at the end of July. You may also visit our webstore at the end of July to order directly from our company. www.hitstoreusa.com

Thank you for your interest in HIT Entertainment.

Kris
HIT Entertainment Consumer Relations

[jediX]

If small dvd packs succeed, I can only see box sets being imminent. After all, before South Park and Spongebob became bestselling dvd season sets, they were released in smaller episode collections.

Sorry if this has been asked/answered (I've been absent for a few days, so please forgive me in that case), but are there any reports of how much this first disc will sell for?

[Muppet Crypts]

Walmart doesn't have any knowledge of a Fraggle Rock DVD
i know a guy in tthe Walmart Movie Dept. here in East, they have a release schedule with NO!!!!! Fraggle Rock in July :p

[Muppet Crypts]

Please, for the sake of the world, release the entirety of Fraggle Rock on DVD.



Ok,nobody is dying beacase the Fraggle Rock DVD has not been released yet !!!! :confused:


But it all in all is a excellent letter :excited:

[Foodie]

Ok,nobody is dying beacase the Fraggle Rock DVD has not been released yet !!!! :confused:


But it all in all is a excellent letter :excited:


* dies *

Nick :smirk:

[beaker]

So "technically" we will have Muppet Babies and FR dvds out in stores soon... only thing is the MB dvds are $15 (if you include the stuffed animal) with one darn episode...and Im sorry, but Disney pulled that 2 per tape crap in 1993. Is it so hard to put 4-6 episodes per dvd? Wouldnt *that* generate more sales?

And why is Walmart cutting back on their home entertainment products? Do they need more space for their country music, Nascar, monster truck, guns, and mullet sections?

[Warrick]

Guys, this is the story.

If we be silly and dont buy the single release DVD because "It only has two episodes" then we WILL NOT see any more releases.

The only way for us to get more releases, or indeed a boxset is to buy what they put out in the beginning.

They are calling this a TEST , Which means this will test if the market wants Fraggle Rock on DVD. If we dont buy it, then the test will fail and NO MORE will follow.

:smirk: <- Concerned

[Fozzie Bear]

And why is Walmart cutting back on their home entertainment products? Do they need more space for their country music, Nascar, monster truck, guns, and mullet sections?

:) Heh--I hope to make more room for new entertainment stuff.

I'm with Warrick, gang! Buy the DVD and give it away as a gift to someone if you don't want it, just so they'll see the flood of sales and will make more Fraggle DVDs.

I've written HIT and JHC already about what the fans want, and I would suggest other folks do, too!! They won't know what we want unless we tell them, or otherwise they'll give us what they THINK we want (corporate america :rolleyes: ) instead! Make your voice heard! Write! But be professional and polite, gang.

[beaker]

Guys, this is the story.

If we be silly and dont buy the single release DVD because "It only has two episodes" then we WILL NOT see any more releases.

The only way for us to get more releases, or indeed a boxset is to buy what they put out in the beginning.

They are calling this a TEST , Which means this will test if the market wants Fraggle Rock on DVD. If we dont buy it, then the test will fail and NO MORE will follow.

:smirk: <- Concerned

Oh no I get it...I for one will definately be buying this...I have them actually "officially" released from back in the day, but you know, its dvd. My only gripe other than the 2 episodes, is the possible $15 ? Two episodes is always denoted by $10...tho $10 does have the fell of a straight to the bargin bin.

At any rate, I encourage everyone to buy these. Hopefully HIT can get these into Hot Topic, Best Buy, etc.

[Muppet Crypts]

I AGREE LETS GET FRAGGLE'S ONTO BOX SETS OR AT LEAST BACK ON TV SO I CAN dvd-R THEM :flirt:

[Sir Didymus]

I definately will be buying 2 of these Dvds! And I will be telling all of my friends to get one! I will also be putting an announcement on my website!

Sir Didymus

[Foodie]

Guys, this is the story.

If we be silly and dont buy the single release DVD because "It only has two episodes" then we WILL NOT see any more releases.

The only way for us to get more releases, or indeed a boxset is to buy what they put out in the beginning.

They are calling this a TEST , Which means this will test if the market wants Fraggle Rock on DVD. If we dont buy it, then the test will fail and NO MORE will follow.

:smirk: <- Concerned

I'm buyin' 2 doggonnit!
:smirk:

Nick

[AndyL]

If small dvd packs succeed, I can only see box sets being imminent. After all, before South Park and Spongebob became bestselling dvd season sets, they were released in smaller episode collections.
Has HIT ever done this? Have they ever upgraded from individual 'best of' disks to a boxed set? According to their web-site they seem to have rights to some popular shows, but I don't see any boxed sets available for sale.

For that matter, how often do you see boxed sets in Wal-Mart? Aren't those sorts of thing usually sold mail-order or in specialty stores? (I don't know actually, I rarely go to walmart. The local 'Super' wal-mart is literally larger than a city block and that disturbs me for some reason.)

Not that I'm giving up hope or anything. I just don't think a U.S.A. box-set release is as inevitable as it seems at first. Letter-writing is definitely called for. (Since it's all we can do.) Perhaps real non-email letters would help.

The current tally of signatures includes those of performers [...]
Heh, I'll bet this part didn't impress them over-much.

Great letter though, much better then the shorter one I sent.

[Wembley]

The thing is that most of what HIT has are "children's" shows - not very well suited for "boxed set" release. Heck, most kids will happily watch the same episode of Barney over and over and over again. The thought of a Barney boxed set makes me shudder... many people who buy boxed sets are probably fans of a show, that are old enough to have money to buy them. Not a lot of three year olds have the cash to lay out $40 for a boxed set of a tv series.

Anyway, when Fraggle Rock first came out, it was on HBO - a cable pay-tv network. Remember, back in 1983, not a whole lot of folks had cable - and even fewer of those had HBO! Many of the people who saw Fraggle Rock proably saw it on Disney and TNT (IIRC). I'm willing to bet, though, that a lot of folks who watched Fraggle Rock back in the 80s, are now, 20 years later, having kids of their own and will see this disk, remember it from their childhood, and get it for their kids.

Oh, and by the way, I fix cellphones, and the Fraggle theme is one of the more popular ringtones I've seen (err... heard). And, every time I mention that there's a Fraggle DVD coming out, people recognize the name, and tell me that they HAVE to get it when it comes out. (Or, maybe it's the Gobo doll I put on my monitor at work....)

Just my thoughts.... :smirk:
-Rick "Wembley" Miller
..."You can NOT leave the magic!"

[Camellia]

Phillip, thanks for posting the poll. I hope it does some good for the manufacturer and the set is produced for the general public. :)

keep us posted on it's release, if it's done. :)

thanks,
Camellia
visit our store for Muppet and Fraggle toys :)
www.camelliasoftware.com/muppetstore

[Oliver]

I'm sorry but I'm really tired of companies taking advantage of consumers in this fashion by releasing these cheap two episode, out-of-production-order, discs in order to "test the waters"...

Why should we consumers be forced to support a lackluster release and actually be expected to go out and purchase every single one of these properties for a desired television show, in order to "prove" that it's marketable, just so we can recieve proper releases later??

It's pretty obvious that "Fraggle Rock" is a commercially viable franchise here in North America, especially with the current 80's revival trend and nostalgia that fans are expressing for past cartoons and television series, it's been made apparent countless times by the fans and general public alike that "Fraggle Rock" is a long-desired series which would sell highly on DVD!

This is just ridiculous... I'm sorry but I absolutely refuse to "support" any such movement. Either release a quality product or don't bother!

I'm not going to be spending my hard-earned money on a thoughtlessly compiled disc featuring two episodes out-of-order, just to prove that HIT! can turn around and offer the public what they have ultimately been asking for after already spending money on a worthless 50 min. DVD soon to be made obsolete.

I'm surprised by how naive you all seem to be at the prospect of this obvious marketing ploy. It's one thing to offer a bonus disc with an episode or two as promotion or publicity campaign for a relative product as seen with the Mupper Babies DVD/plush toy to boost sales, but this is just careless and apathetic.

I have enough inclinations currently when it comes to DVD's, music, clothing, etc to put my income into... if I really want to watch 2 episodes of Fraggle Rock, I'll either pick up the UK disc or download the freakin episodes!

Obviously an official remastered R1 DVD release would be preferred, but not at the expense of manipulating me into purchasing such a ridiculously conceived gimmick as a such... I'd rather not "support" and buy a vcd off of Ebay or pop in a VHS!

If HIT! is reading this, this is one of the worst ideas ever, especially for a relatively new company in such a competetive market... set things off right, otherwise don't expect my support and I'm honestly surprised that so many others are not following this attitude.

Even companies like DIC or Image etc. release 3-5 episodes on single disc budget compilations that end up in Wal-Mart bargain bins, those retail for the same price!

Why bother mastering 50 minutes onto a DVD that can hold triple that capacity, if for nothing else than to prove however subtly you want to publicize, that you're only real interest with such a venture is to capitalize off a cheap substandard low-cost no-effort product.

Such stingy and insensible maneuvers will NOT prove prosperous with consumers in the DVD market...

This whole concept is lame, imo.

[Sir Didymus]

I think it's silly not to buy it, because it only has 2 episodes. I'm just thankful that one of the best shows ever made is finally available.

Sir Didymus

[Oliver]

I'm just thankful that one of the best shows ever made is finally available.

Why should we be "thankfull" when we are essentially funding these ventures?

Products are made available because consumer buy them.

If anyone should be "thankfull", it should be the companies who profit off of our spending.

Is this any way to express gratitude... offering us a substandard 50 min. DVD release of 2 individual episodes which are not even presented in production order?

This isn't 1998... it's no longer a developmental market, standards have been set.

To release these provisional DVD's with the expectation that fans will go ahead and "show support" so that the company can turn around and milk us for what we've ultimately been asking for is just ridiculous.

You're logic is skewed.

[AndyL]

Why should we be "thankfull" when we are essentially funding these ventures?

Products are made available because consumer buy them.

If anyone should be "thankfull", it should be the companies who profit off of our spending.
I would be thankful if they actually released the product I want instead of trying for the lowest common denominator like usual.

I doubt that they're aiming at us fans at all. They're probably REALLY targeting the parents who just want something,anything, that they can toss in a dvd player so that they don't have to pay attention to the kids for half an hour. If true, then it's easy to see why they wouldn't be interested in boxed sets.
Other countries got boxed sets. Gotta love it here in America where it's preferred to sell lots of mediocre products rather than a few good products.

Consider this : Does buying this out-of-order two-episode disk show HIT that a boxed set would be profitable? Or does it show HIT that more out-of-order two-episode disks would be profitable?

(Making both at the same time would be even less profitable so they're going to have to choose.)


While were on a similar subject, Perhaps the real reason they skipped #2 is that they're concerned that it contains a moral that many ultra-conservative parents might find too subversive and anti-authority for children? Sounds crazy I know, but recently a lot of people have been acting even crazier these days.

[wembleyfraggle]

You're logic is skewed.
I think your logic is skewed! You seem to be the only one who thinks this way. That had to be the longest message ive ever read and it only made me mad...at you! If HIT is reading your message the only thing i see hapening from it is HIT getting mad and not releasing FR on DVD at all.

If you hate the idea so bad, just don't buy the disc! Save us the speach and say to yourself "well instead of making everyone ****** im just going to not buy the DVD and keep it to myself!"

Tyler

[Warrick]

They obviously are aiming this at fans...

When my Nephews and Neices come over and they want to watch Fraggle Rock I certainly dont show them episode One or Two.

I show them the exciting, magical, heartfelt stories. If HIT! were aiming this at the little kids then there would be two of the best eps on the DVD... Not the first two.

:smirk: <-- Still Concerned

[Sir Didymus]

[QUOTE=wembleyfraggle]If you hate the idea so bad, just don't buy the disc! Save us the speach and say to yourself "well instead of making everyone ****** im just going to not buy the DVD and keep it to myself!"

Amen! :)

[Oliver]

If HIT is reading your message the only thing i see hapening from it is HIT getting mad and not releasing FR on DVD at all.

Yes, I'm sure that would be the likely scenario.

You must be 10 years old.

[Warrick]

I agree with Tyler, Rather than trying to convince others of your opinion. Just take it on your own and do your own thing.

Because the opinion you are putting out will not help with Fraggle DVD's. Which means its the opinion that we dont want to hear.

[David Slater]

this 2 show dvd release is not worth my time or money.
i want season sets on dvd... :smirk:

[Brian Damage]

Well, here goes my first post here:

A little figuring left me with a probable price in Aussie dollars for a 24 episode set, based upon the assumption that the sets are worth roughly US$80... turned out to be about AU$120... I reckon I could stand paying that...

The reason is, I just found an old copy of the video "Fraggles Make Good Friends!" (Aussie version of "Meet The Fraggles") a couple of weeks ago, and all the memories of this show came flooding back at once (Well, of what I'd seen, Ie: The end of the show and the animated version). Been searching around on the web for it ever since....

Imagine my surprise when I found out about a possible DVD release. I'd be over the moon if they released the whole thing.

I suppose what I mean, after all that rambling, is that I'd be chuffed to pay $120 for it. After all, an episode of FR goes for around 25 minutes or so, and there would be 24 of them, making 24 x 25 = 600 minutes of fragglyness per set.

Now, over here, I'd say DVD's, good DVD's, are about 30 - 40 bucks each, and most movies seem to average around 120 minutes (Two hours) duration... So 600/120 = 5 (600 minutes is like five movies), and five times, say, $35, is $175... So I'd say that $120 for ten hours of Fraggle Rock is cool. Not to mention any extra thingummies they might have.

To recap: Here, in Oz, 10h of movies is worth about $175. The boxed set, with 10h of FR, will be, assuming the price translates directly (Which it will, apart from shipping, if I order it from America) around $120. Which is alright with me...

Someone tell me if I got the sums wrong, I'm off to watch TV for a while, in order to let my mind settle back into its original shape after all that math...

(Nice to meet you all, BTW. Name's Brian. Brian Damage.)

[Oliver]

Consider this : Does buying this out-of-order two-episode disk show HIT that a boxed set would be profitable? Or does it show HIT that more out-of-order two-episode disks would be profitable?

Nice to see someone else excercising intelligence here.

[Muppet Crypts]

Hit should put it is a soft pack and sell it for 4.99-7.99 the 2 episode disc that is

[Brian Damage]

Like some sort of sampler?

[Fozzie Bear]

I would think with 2 episdoes it'd be a sampler.

[Brian Damage]

Ah, didn't know what a "Soft pack" was...

Well, if it's technically a sampler... Shouldn't it be two of the better episodes anyway? Or would it be the a couple of the first ones in order to get those who are unfamiliar with the show used to it?

I dunno, I've just been hoping they release the whole thing...

[Fozzie Bear]

Or would it be the a couple of the first ones in order to get those who are unfamiliar with the show used to it?...

I would think this option, to get folks to refamiliarize themselves with Fraggles.
------------------

Hey, everyone!

Instead of complaining about there only being two episodes on the DVD, or which ones were chosen, why not start thinking postively about this:

TEST RUN! FRAGGLE DVD!! If it sells well, we may get what we want!

Discuss what you'd like to see, stop worrying about what we're getting 'for now...' who knows what the future holds?

The SHADOW knows...oops, sorry. Wrong franchise...

[Brian Damage]

Yeah, I suppose. And even then, if they show no inclination to give people the series in chronological order, there's always the option of a massive email bombardment...

I'd mainly like to see the episodes that were on the TV when I was too young to remember them at all, followed by the episodes I can just barely remember.

But that kind of goes without saying, I suppose... I'd quite like to see the last one again...

Oh, if you mean what we'd like to see in the sets... I'd like to see that 45 minute special that the UK DVD, I believe, had...

[Fozzie Bear]

What "I" want to see is a season-by-season Chronological dvd release that includes specials such as "Down at Fraggle Rock," and even interviews (et al) with the performers today. They can even put phone interviews on the DVD with photographs/stills of the production and characters on the screen. That'd work!

[Brian Damage]

Yeah, I realised what you meant. I wouldn't mind seeing that "Fraggles Look For Jobs", or whatever it was called... I don't think that was ever on Aussie TV... Perhaps in the last set...

[David Slater]

well, if it comes down to it i still have most of Fraggle Rock on tapes.
if they cant bother puting them on season dvd sets then ill just have to live with my tapes.

[tvoice]

Yeah...it's not just the fact that this new DVD is only going to give two measly episodes for $15 but if we had to buy every episode the same way i'd have to have a set of shelves JUST for Fraggle Rock.
I always thought five episodes was good for animated shows. Four acceptable. Three and I would think twice. Two...well I didn't even consider that someone would try that. It should really be in the $6-$10 range for that.

[Oliver]

Not to mention that if HIT! were to continue with this proposed release context, it would cost us $720 to own the entire series!

$75 US for 10 episodes... sure.

This company's due for a huge reality check.

[jediX]

As I said, if this first one sells moderately well, seasons are probably imminent if they realize how high this demand is. Simpsons did it for a while on vhs, South Park has done it, Married... With Children released two 'best of' discs before releasing seasons, Spongebob has, several Anime shows have... I'm sure there's more but that's all I can think of at the moment.

I do agree with you two, though, on the fact that 2 for $15 is ridiculous. I mean, I had a problem paying $17 apiece for the 3-episode TMS discs when they first came out (which is why I held out until now to get the rest). The bottom line is that EVERYTHING Muppet-related is high-priced at the moment (excluding the movies, since those run about the same as other dvds).

TV dvd's are expensive enough as it is, but when each episode ends up costing about $7.50, they aren't going to sell a lot of copies if they don't go from singles to sets (seeing as most 22 minute-long episode, full season (22-25 episodes) sets equate to about $1.25 per episode or so).

Hopefully this series doesn't end up like the one in the mid 90's; having a handful of volumes at 2 episodes apiece (right? I don't feel like looking it up), only to end up discontinued 10 or so volumes in. At least the T/L TMS made it to 15... :smirk:

[Fozzie Bear]

It's the same response that I had:

Thank you for contacting us. HIT Entertainment is pleased to announce the release of Fraggle Rock Where It All Began on VHS/DVD. You will be able to purchase this title at Wal-Mart at the end of July. You may also visit our webstore at the end of July to order directly from our company. www.hitstoreusa.com

Thank you for your interest in HIT Entertainment.

Kris
HIT Entertainment Consumer Relations

So, they have a base letter they're responding with.

However, it's still VERY important that we email and voice our desires. A company will take that into consideration if enough response is made to them!

[WiGgY]

2 episodes per DVD is insane!!!!!!!!!! It makes no sense. I can download every episode for nothing and the quality ain't half bad. I see no reason to buy this dvd at all.

[Foodie]

2 episodes per DVD is insane!!!!!!!!!! It makes no sense. I can download every episode for nothing and the quality ain't half bad. I see no reason to buy this dvd at all.


Yeah but you way is stealing isn't it? :smirk:

Nick

[Muppet Crypts]

i can't wait just to see Fraggle Rock Again it's been too long

[WiGgY]

Yeah but you way is stealing isn't it? :smirk:

Nick
No, what this company is doing with these dvds is stealing. Maybe when they realize no one wants a 2 episode dvd for 18 bucks they will learn their lesson and put out reasonably priced dvd sets.

[Foodie]

No, what this company is doing with these dvds is stealing. Maybe when they realize no one wants a 2 episode dvd for 18 bucks they will learn their lesson and put out reasonably priced dvd sets.

You do realize that this is just one DVD they're releasing to see how well it sells right?

Who said they'd be $18? The Muppet Show DVDs sell for less than that and they have at least 3 shows per disc.
:smirk:

Nick

[WiGgY]

It is likely that with tax and or shipping it will amont to about 18 dolars. And this is a pretty poor sales test if you ask me. 2 shows on a dvd is just not right.

[SpaceDog]

I'm happy to know that Fraggle Rock is coming to DVD at all. I loved the show when it was on HBO, and haven't seen a bit of it since.
I would be overjoyed if they would release full season sets. I'd really love to be able to take the complete series home and watch it again.
I'll support the initial release, but beyond that, I really want to see season sets released.

[Oliver]

The point being, is that any tests would prove futile regardless because HIT! is well aware of the demand for Fraggle Rock on DVD. If they weren't, they never would have picked up the licensing rights. Releasing a cheap 2-episode out of order barebones DVD will give absolutely no indication eitherway towards the preferrances nor perspectives of HIT!'s potential consumer base as it neither caters to Muppet fans, DVD enthusiasts, or even the casual consumer population who might've purchased this out of nostalgia or on a whim... at $12.99-16.99 and 50 minutes running time, whatever market tests HIT! hopes to achieve by releasing this "sampler" disc are already lost. There are much more effective and efficient ways of reaching the general public in order to determine what would prove prosperous in terms of a DVD release. This is just negligence.

[Foodie]

The point being, is that any tests would prove futile regardless because HIT! is well aware of the demand for Fraggle Rock on DVD. If they weren't, they never would have picked up the licensing rights. Releasing a cheap 2-episode out of order barebones DVD will give absolutely no indication eitherway towards the preferrances nor perspectives of HIT!'s potential consumer base as it neither caters to Muppet fans, DVD enthusiasts, or even the casual consumer population who might've purchased this out of nostalgia or on a whim... at $12.99-16.99 and 50 minutes running time, whatever market tests HIT! hopes to achieve by releasing this "sampler" disc are already lost. There are much more effective and efficient ways of reaching the general public in order to determine what would prove prosperous in terms of a DVD release. This is just negligence.

Yes it does. HIT! only knows about the drooling fanboys' interest in fraggle DVDs. If they release a test disc, people who maybe FORGOT about Fraggle Rock might be all " Hey! I remember this! * buys * ". How you you know if this tactic will fail or not? You have no proof. It's definitely not negligence. The term " negligence " doesn't even apply here. You should be glad that there's a company interested in releasing these at all. Why can't you internet folk ever see the flippin' BRIGHT SIDE of things? Some one wants to make Fraggle Rock DVDs. THAT'S A GOOD THING. :smirk:

Nick

[AndyL]

If HIT is reading your message the only thing i see hapening from it is HIT getting mad and not releasing FR on DVD at all.
Yea, I hear most corporations are run by toddlers that frequently throw temper tantrums over Internet forum posts.

Save us the speach and say to yourself "well instead of making everyone ****** im just going to not buy the DVD and keep it to myself!"
well, we certainly wouldn't want to make everyone ******!!! Personally I hate when someone makes me ******!
Worse yet is when someone uses an Internet forum to express an opinion I don't agree with! Instead of either agreeing or disagreeing or contributing to a discussion or debate, I like to post and tell them they shouldn't have posted it! That way people can tell how mature I am.

Because the opinion you are putting out will not help with Fraggle DVD's.
An opinion alone will not help or hurt anything. You know that.

Anyway, these aren't the fraggle dvds most of us want.
For the past two or three years people here have been practically begging for a boxed set.
Out-Of-Order two-episode disks will make a boxed set less likely. Not more so. They are not at all likely to encode the same episodes onto different disks. So if the disks they manufacture are out of order then a sequential boxed set isn't going to happen.
We've been wanting for years, there's a petition with a ga-zillion signatures on it! Why should we compromise? Why settle for less than other countries have already gotten and be thankful for it?

Which means its the opinion that we dont want to hear.
That DVD boxed sets might not be in HIT's long term plans? Yes, I know. I don't want to hear that either. Looks that way though.

We will also pass your interest along concerning season sets to our Brand Team.
Cool. They didn't put that in my form letter. At least we know they're reading them. That's a good sign!

As I said, if this first one sells moderately well, seasons are probably imminent if they realize how high this demand is. Simpsons did it for a while on vhs, South Park has done it, Married... With Children released two 'best of' discs before releasing seasons, Spongebob has, several Anime shows have... I'm sure there's more but that's all I can think of at the moment.
And "The Muppet Show"! ... no... wait.... that's not right.

[AndyL]

...I like to post and tell them they shouldn't have posted it! That way people can tell how mature I am.
Then I use lot's of pointless sarcasm so people can really see how mature I am! :excited:

-Andy

[Foodie]

Then I use lot's of pointless sarcasm so people can really see how mature I am! :excited:

-Andy


* giggles * :smirk:

Nick

[Fozzie Bear]

2 episodes per DVD is insane!!!!!!!!!! It makes no sense. I can download every episode for nothing and the quality ain't half bad. I see no reason to buy this dvd at all.

It's only one DVD with two episodes on it, and nobody has even been able to indicate a REAL msrp for this item anyways. Except that there's a DVD with 2 episodes coming, everything in this thread is rumors.
---------------------------------------------

Gang,

I've only heard one complaint after another for years and years that there should be Fraggle Rock coming to DVD, and now that it's on the way I hear complaint after another that it's coming!!

People, seriously, is it that hard to be pleased? I shouldn't think so. The test market is our chance to buy the dvd's, show HIT that Fraggle Rock has a market, post here what we desire from them as far as DVDs, and hope for the best.

I WANT FRAGGLE ROCK ON DVD! I want to see it made season by season in chronological order with all the Fraggle-y goodness and extras that they can find!

Look past the official 2 ep dvd for the test market and see the BIG PICTURE!! There's hope on the horizon, but all anybody is doing is bashing it. Think about, and post about, what you would like to see if the test market works and they DO produce full sets of DVDs regarding Fraggles.

C'mon! Where's the positive attitudes??

Rick-a rack-a brick-a brack-a sisk-boom-bah!
Fraggle Rock! Fraggle Rock! Rah rah rah!!

[Muppet Crypts]

much love to the fraggles it will be alright we will wake up the next day with love for the Fraggles

[Foodie]

It's only one DVD with two episodes on it, and nobody has even been able to indicate a REAL msrp for this item anyways. Except that there's a DVD with 2 episodes coming, everything in this thread is rumors.
---------------------------------------------

Gang,

I've only heard one complaint after another for years and years that there should be Fraggle Rock coming to DVD, and now that it's on the way I hear complaint after another that it's coming!!

People, seriously, is it that hard to be pleased? I shouldn't think so. The test market is our chance to buy the dvd's, show HIT that Fraggle Rock has a market, post here what we desire from them as far as DVDs, and hope for the best.



I WANT FRAGGLE ROCK ON DVD! I want to see it made season by season in chronological order with all the Fraggle-y goodness and extras that they can find!

Look past the official 2 ep dvd for the test market and see the BIG PICTURE!! There's hope on the horizon, but all anybody is doing is bashing it. Think about, and post about, what you would like to see if the test market works and they DO produce full sets of DVDs regarding Fraggles.

C'mon! Where's the positive attitudes??

Rick-a rack-a brick-a brack-a sisk-boom-bah!
Fraggle Rock! Fraggle Rock! Rah rah rah!!


Ah say AMEN! :smirk:

Nick

[Muppet Crypts]

i just bought a 3 episode disc of Garfeild today (6/29) so that they know people want it on season disc later this year when it comes out

[Fozzie Bear]

Ah say AMEN! :smirk: Nick

Thank you, Deacon! :D

[blackurth]

now here's my thoughts on the first two episode disc,if this disc is going to help get a box set then by all means get it.BUT the thing I'm worried about is IF they start releasing vol2 and then vol3 and then vol4 and them vol5 all with two episodes each THEN deciding after these 5 releases they decide to release a box set,that would be a ripp off,now a vol1 and a vol2 is plenty enough to test the waters...

[jediX]

i just bought a 3 episode disc of Garfeild today (6/29) so that they know people want it on season disc later this year when it comes out Sorry to go off topic for a sec here, but just to clarify, Garfield & Friends (which is what I presume your disc is of, right?) season 1 is slated to come out July 27.

[Oliver]

And those were also older television specials, not episodes derived from the later 1988 season broadcasts. It's irrelevant to anything in context...


As far as the whole "testing the waters" issue... for the sake of monotonous repetition, I've already covered that ground - The consumers have spoken, it's a marketable and viable prospect, there's just no need for these cheap discs, it's careless cut-rate business practice and absolutely futile!

Someone mentioned earlier that the only demographic that HIT! is aware in regards to the demand for Fraggle Rock on DVD is that of the internet fanboys... that's just ridiculous!

To begin with, the internet is a significant medium as it covers a global venue and is not biased to any specific social standing or classification. It's the year 2004, everybody uses the internet.

Nevermind the over abundance of Muppet/FR related websites or even the dedicated DVD / home theatre forums and messageboards which constantly bring this into discussion though... Just living in and experiencing the daily routines of "the real world", I'm sure would place most if not all of us in a position to judge and discern for ourselves that the demand is out there! Of the hundreds of people we encounter each day, I'm sure we'd all be able to exemplify at least one or two who, if made aware of such a release, would be in line to purchase!

We are currently experiencing a heavy 80's revival in pop culture right now and if any time is right to market such a release, it's now! FR has been featured everywhere from VH1 retrospectives to "retro-fashioned" t-shirt and mesh hat designs to countless online topic discussions, various unrelated pop-culture and entertainment websites and blogs, etc. At the simple click of a mouse you will happen upon THOUSANDS of FR related websites, polls, petitions through any random Google search.

Gord Lacey sent me the statistics from the literally tens of thousands of registered users at his website, TVShowsOnDVD.com, who've voted in favor of SEASON BOX SETS of Fraggle Rock and the numbers speak for themselves. I don't remember the exact proportion, but a whopping magnitude had stated that they would straight-out REFUSE to purchase FR discs in any other context.

With all due respect, those who have posted in defense of HIT!'s cheap and questionable practices and claim that they will undoubtedly support any Fraggle releases which surface, ironically exhibit themselves much closer to those alleged "fanboy" extremists so often mentioned, than the rest of us who are willing to challenge and criticize second rate merchandise and business practices in favor of a quality product worthy of regard and our spending...

The proposed tactics HIT! suggests do not boast well in favor of what all of us... and everybody in general... have been asking for years now.

The Disney approach has seen it's time. Our economy is dependant on us, we the consumers. We fund the ventures, our money goes back into the companies in order to churn out more products so that we can spend even more. It's a cycle, that doesn't work if it's only one-sided. If a company's only focus is monetary gain, and we the spenders are not shown adequate respect and appreciation for giving such companies a reason to exist... they won't!

It's clear what everyone wants... but from what little is known right now, it's not what we're getting. So I'm supposed to be thankfull and "hope" that something better comes along by supporting insufficent and thoughtless output?

No. I will pay for something when it's worthy of my spending, not in "hopes" of something better.

As it stands, single 2-episode releases do not fair well for "something better" when using good judgement, as we only stand to see more individual discs to keep in format of previous issues. Anything else would render earlier pressings obsolete. Would anyone argue that a relatively new company would not see benefit in doing that to their stock?

I'm anything but a "fanboy", in fact I hardly post at this forum unless matters relevant to me such as new releases, etc prompt me, but it's about using better judgement and being responsible consumers, not being so eager to accept whatever it is that's marketed...

I hope something more positive comes of all this, as it stands, I will not be giving HIT! any of my money for what they are offering...

[Fozzie Bear]

But under that same token, Palisades would lose a ton of money if they didn't test the waters with a few Mega Muppets figures and had jumped right in there and, based on the fact that everyone wanted them, made a whole line of Mega Muppets. Because, tons of the Animal and Beaker Megas went on sale, and as far as website direct sales of Camilla, which everyone wanted, isn't selling as well as it should (even though I've bought 2).

The thing is that even though all of America shouts "Give it to me!" they won't buy like they say they will. We all want Fraggle Rock, chronological DVD sets, but until they're for SURE we're gonna buy it, they don't want to put up the money for items that Blockbuster is going to be selling for $5.00 down the road.

I do understand what you mean about being a conscientious consumer, though, becasue as much as I love Muppets or Ghostbusters, or Blues Brothers or Peanuts, I won't buy something just for the franchise name, but how good of a quality it is. I'm picky, too; but, if what I see is something I "THINK" will help the marketing of something I want, I'll support it as best I can.

That, and we don't know of any releases that state that HIT! is going to release 5 volumes of 2-episode DVDs. They're only issuing one DVD with 2 ep's on it, and that's it. Everything else is just rumors.

[Oliver]

Well I do agree that until a press release has been announced, we shouldn't jump to conclusions but comparing toy merchandise, figures, dolls, etc to DVD sets is really groundless for many obvious reasons which I won't delve into.

If FR episodes were effectively remastered and presented with nice, clean transfers audio & video wise, in chronological season sets with perhaps an interview or two, there'd really be nothing but positive remarks to come. People WOULD definitely buy them.

I guess we should all wait to see what HIT! plans to do before jumping the gun, but contacting them with this sort of constructive criticism might prove effective...

[Kitten]

I've been looking around the internet for Fraggle Rock DVD's and i cam across this one: http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0000BK6SA/ref=ase_landscapephoto0e/202-3024830-1888604
Does anyone know anyting about it??

[King Prawn]

I have this one, it's the first ever FR DVD released, Unfortunatley for many it was only released on R2. It contains 12 episode on 2-disks.

Hope this helped :)

[a_Mickey_Muppet]

I just recieved this e-mail from HIT Entertainment!


July Baby!!!! At Walmart!!!!
Tyler


Ohhhhh Man this is soooooooooo cool! I loved Fraggle Rock, i remmeber seenin it on the Disney channel back in the day! :smirk: I will deff be buyin the DVD when it hits the store, i had to live on 2 FR video tapes that Disney put out back in 93, they are Vol 3. The Fraggles search & find and Vol 4. The Haunting of castle Gorg. I use to watch the Castle Gorg one EVERY day in October for Halloween like crazy. i havnt popped one in the ol VCR since.....since...... :confused: forever, i think i gonna watch one now! bye... la la la la down in fraggle rock, ... :excited:

[McFraggle]

It's only one DVD with two episodes on it, and nobody has even been able to indicate a REAL msrp for this item anyways. Except that there's a DVD with 2 episodes coming, everything in this thread is rumors.
---------------------------------------------

Gang,

I've only heard one complaint after another for years and years that there should be Fraggle Rock coming to DVD, and now that it's on the way I hear complaint after another that it's coming!!

People, seriously, is it that hard to be pleased? I shouldn't think so. The test market is our chance to buy the dvd's, show HIT that Fraggle Rock has a market, post here what we desire from them as far as DVDs, and hope for the best.

I WANT FRAGGLE ROCK ON DVD! I want to see it made season by season in chronological order with all the Fraggle-y goodness and extras that they can find!

Look past the official 2 ep dvd for the test market and see the BIG PICTURE!! There's hope on the horizon, but all anybody is doing is bashing it. Think about, and post about, what you would like to see if the test market works and they DO produce full sets of DVDs regarding Fraggles.

C'mon! Where's the positive attitudes??

Rick-a rack-a brick-a brack-a sisk-boom-bah!
Fraggle Rock! Fraggle Rock! Rah rah rah!!

Certainly agree with you here Kevin.

[Muppet Crypts]

It will all be fine Just Breath and it will all be fine

[Gobo_Tron2]

I hate to bit nitpicky (I'll definately be buying the DVD anyway to give HIT some incentive), but why release only 2 episodes on a DVD? I completely understand the economic logic in doing this with VHS tapes, since when those are made only the amount of magenetic tape needed to fit the content on is used in the tape - thus saving the company lots of money in the long run. But this doesn't make sense on a form of media that uses the same amount of physical material no matter how much or how little data you place on it. Does HIT have to pay royalty to Henson per every episode they put on the DVD?

[anathema]

I hate to bit nitpicky (I'll definately be buying the DVD anyway to give HIT some incentive), but why release only 2 episodes on a DVD? I completely understand the economic logic in doing this with VHS tapes, since when those are made only the amount of magenetic tape needed to fit the content on is used in the tape - thus saving the company lots of money in the long run. But this doesn't make sense on a form of media that uses the same amount of physical material no matter how much or how little data you place on it. Does HIT have to pay royalty to Henson per every episode they put on the DVD?
More episodes = more time involved in authoring the disc. Professional DVD authoring is a time-consuming business - believe me, I know!

But yes, the more shows they put out, the more it will cost them more in royalties.

[Oliver]

No, HIT! does not pay any royalties to the Jim Henson company if they have purchased a licensing contract to the series, which as far as I'm aware, they have. I believe they now own full distribution and merchandising rights, and possibly production consent as well though I'm not sure what the contracts between the companies stipulated...

The authoring, mastering and restoration = more time, effort and money.

This is where my main objection with this project lies. If they are not willing to invest the time and effort to give the consumers what they've been asking for, well... I've said it all before.

[Gobo_Tron2]

The other question I'm still waiting for (gonna find out whan that first DVD is on the shelves) is whether or not the editors are going to decide to get... creative. "Hmm... this scene isn't really needed." I don't want another Tristar-butcher incident.

[anathema]

No, HIT! does not pay any royalties to the Jim Henson company if they have purchased a licensing contract to the series, which as far as I'm aware, they have. I believe they now own full distribution and merchandising rights, and possibly production consent as well though I'm not sure what the contracts between the companies stipulate.
They will have to pay what are called 'residuals' to the performers. These are based on screen time.

[Fozzie Bear]

Speaking of Royalties/residuals, check out Rick Lyon's website:

http://www.lyonpuppets.com/puppeteer.html

and for the amount of the check:
http://www.lyonpuppets.com/bigbucks.html

[petrieboy]

Thank you Oliver! You said everything I feel and more.
I always pictured Fraggle Rock coming to dvd in a hard foam "rock" box set with every season crammed in. I imagined that the extras would include every episode of the short-lived Fraggle Rock animated series that came on Saturday mornings. This is far from what I had pictured.

[Gobo_Tron2]

Exactly - why bother buying the rights to it if they're just going to sit on it and not do anything with it? Then again it's not their fault that NOW of all times, Walmart is deciding to a jerk and ruin their day. Is Henson about to get bummed out by bad timing AGAIN?

[Foodie]

Exactly - why bother buying the rights to it if they're just going to sit on it and not do anything with it? Then again it's not their fault that NOW of all times, Walmart is deciding to a jerk and ruin their day. Is Henson about to get bummed out by bad timing AGAIN?


Why can't you guys have some form of patience about this whole thing? None of you know how this is gonna work out.

And is there anyway to stop getting email notices about this thread? I'm getting sick of all the whining.

Nick :smirk:

[Gobo_Tron2]

Hiiiiiissssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss. ..............

(decided to do something other than whine :p )

[Boober_Gorg]

And is there anyway to stop getting email notices about this thread? I'm getting sick of all the whining. My sentiments exactly. Thank goodness each email has a bottom link that you can click on to unsubscribe to the thread.

[Foodie]

My sentiments exactly. Thank goodness each email has a bottom link that you can click on to unsubscribe to the thread.

Wha? * looks at email * Hey! Wouldja lookit dat? * clicks link *
:smirk:

Nick

[Foodie]

Hiiiiiissssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss. ..............

(decided to do something other than whine :p )

You sound like Sammy the Snake! Do you look AND sound like the letter " S "? :smirk:

Nick

[Gobo_Tron2]

*owch* well I tried to, but in the complex contortion I totally messed up my spine and now I'm waiting for the ambulance to arrive. How did I type this? Well... umm... I was dictating to my highly-educated parrot, who I have taught to type on the keyboard for me. I did this while waiting for the ambulance.

[Muppet Crypts]

When Is It Exactly Coming Out

[Muppet Crypts]

http://www.hometheaterforum.com/htforum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=202356

[Foodie]

*owch* well I tried to, but in the complex contortion I totally messed up my spine and now I'm waiting for the ambulance to arrive. How did I type this? Well... umm... I was dictating to my highly-educated parrot, who I have taught to type on the keyboard for me. I did this while waiting for the ambulance.


I'm shocked and amazed!!!! :smirk: :excited:

Nick

[beaker]

anyone have a confirmed date on these?

[MJTaylor]

I feel that one DVD with two episodes of Fraggle Rock is better than nothing. If it was coming out here I'd sure go out and buy it. Here in Australia there used to be videotapes of the programme but all appear to have been deleted.

[Foodie]

The light doth shine your way. :smirk: :excited:

Nick

[Brian Damage]

First recorded sighting of the DVD, right here:

http://www.fragglerocker.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=396&PN=1&TPN=1

THREE EPISODES!

Seen at Walmart. Credit goes to PHILIPRTHOMAS of the Fragglerocker forums.

[a_Mickey_Muppet]

Hey, thats so cool, I work at a Wal-Mart (and sometimes the Disney store) here in Up state NY. I work tonight so IF I do see it, you can bet I'm getting it tonight!

:excited: Yooooo Hoooo Down in Fraggle Rock!!! *clap, clap* :D

[Phillip Chapman]

I think one of the episodes may be a surprise "bonus feature". I heard this was a possibility a few weeks ago, but couldn't get HIT to confirm the news. It's fantastic if we got three episodes on the disc though.

Thanks for sharing the sighting with us!

[Brian Damage]

[EDIT]: And yes, it is a bonus episode. There's also something about Pingu (The Penguin?) on it, for some reason.

[EDIT2]: And, peculiarly, my post in the Fraggle Rock forum here has gone missing...

[Phillip Chapman]

I removed it because it was the same thing you posted here. Let's try to keep the Fraggle DVD discussions kept in one place. Posting the same thing multiple times is against the forum rules.

*watches everyone run out the door to their local Wal-Mart*

[Brian Damage]

Meh. Okay. Hope everyone interested in the DVD is checking this thread, then.

Now I just have to figure out how to get a copy in Australia...

[Boober_Gorg]

It's not at the 2 Wal-Marts or the Best Buy that I visited today. :confused:

[McFraggle]

I think one of the episodes may be a surprise "bonus feature". I heard this was a possibility a few weeks ago, but couldn't get HIT to confirm the news. It's fantastic if we got three episodes on the disc though.

Thanks for sharing the sighting with us!

That sounds cool. I'll have to check the next time I go to Wal-Mart. :excited:

[Brian Damage]

It's not at the 2 Wal-Marts or the Best Buy that I visited today. :confused:

Well, the person who posted it said that they worked at the Wal-Mart they'd seen it at, so maybe it's not actually on-shelf yet...

New news: The inside of the box says to "Look out for more Fraggle DVDs this fall". It remains to be seen whether this is indicating more three-episode discs or actual season sets...

[a_Mickey_Muppet]

Yeah, same here at my Wal-Mart, but she said it will be released on Tuesday. :(

Grrr... i wanted it now lol.

[getup]

*remove*

[Foodie]

It's not at the 2 Wal-Marts or the Best Buy that I visited today.


So, it's gonna be at places other than Wal*Mart then? :smirk:

Nick

[Phillip Chapman]

Right now all we know *for sure* is that it will be at Wal-Mart and HIT's web site.

[bobhopesite]

http://www.hitentertainment.com/portal/flash/player.asp

[Brian Damage]

Minor Update: The inside of the box apparently says something like: "More Fraggle Rock coming to video and dvd fall 2004". It's a little hard to pin down...

Video too... interesting...

[Oliver]

Wow, this is actually very promising news...

So now it would seem that we will be seeing 3 episodes and they will in fact be in production order!

I guess one shouldn't jump to conclusions afterall.. Not the ideal Fraggle DVD's we would have envisioned, but a far more positive package than the original 2 random episode concept we had earlier percieved!

I just have one question though... what the hel| is Pingu The Penguin??

[Oliver]

I still don't understand why the UK got a 2-disc, 12 episode release with a bonus 45 min. documentary with Jim Henson on the show? I would really like to find out Hit's plans for future releases...

[anathema]

I still don't understand why the UK got a 2-disc, 12 episode release with a bonus 45 min. documentary with Jim Henson on the show? I would really like to find out Hit's plans for future releases...
Because the UK discs were released by Columbia Tristar, not HIT.

[Oliver]

Oh, that would explain it than...

Does Columbia still hold distro rights solely in the UK and do you think that extra documentary footage was exclusive to Columbia and would have to be licensed out for use or would Hit have access to similair material here in the US?

[trekkie1701E]

Recieved this toiday in my fraggle e-mail alert from tvshowsondvd.com:

We've gotten in e-mails from folks working at Wal-Mart SuperCenters around the country. They tell us that they are unpacking the new DVDs for this week, and Fraggle Rock - Where It All Began is among them!

We described this release to you here as a single-disc item with two episodes on it. But one of the people who wrote in, Phillip, informs us that it has a bit more than that:

It has 2 stories: "Beginings" & "Wembley and the Gorgs". Plus Bonus episodes: "Let the Water Run" & "Pingu Is Introduced", and it's only $9.64.


Chris, at the Wal-Mart location I shop at, verifies these episode names and and the price, and adds that the running time is shown as 80 minutes (including the bonus episodes). He tells me that this will be for sale tomorrow.

The episodes that end up on this DVD are the first three episodes of Fraggle Rock, plus the first episode of another Hit Entertainment kid-vid property, Pingu (the Penguin). Not bad for under $10!

I haven't seen the Fraggle Rock DVD listed for sale anywhere else yet, including at Hit Entertainments own site! So it looks like Wal-Mart's the place to be for Fraggle fans (and that's in-store; it's not listed at Wal-Mart's website yet, either). The reports I've gotten say that there are roughly 8 copies per store that received these, though that may vary by location. Check your local store for availability. And we'll let you know if we find out anything more, so stay tuned of course!

[Brian Damage]

Is that a Philip R. Thomas? If it is, that's who the report I posted here before came from. Fella must've been contacting everyone he could.

I thought the other bonus was Pingu the Penguin...

Now to figure out a way to get it downunder...

[Drtooth]

So "technically" we will have Muppet Babies and FR dvds out in stores soon... only thing is the MB dvds are $15 (if you include the stuffed animal) with one darn episode...and Im sorry, but Disney pulled that 2 per tape crap in 1993. Is it so hard to put 4-6 episodes per dvd? Wouldnt *that* generate more sales?

And why is Walmart cutting back on their home entertainment products? Do they need more space for their country music, Nascar, monster truck, guns, and mullet sections?

Well... considering the Invader Zim and TMNT G1 DVD's fit a shocking 9 episodes on them, it all comes down to licensing and royalties...

As for Sprawl Mart... What the shell? Why cut the Home entertainment section.,.. that's just about it's only redeming value!

So... no fake... there IS a Fraggle DVD on the way? I've been waaaay out of the loop....

[Brian Damage]

Pingu is a little, mischevious, and somewhat amorphous clay penguin who speaks his own little language and gets into trouble now and then...

[Drtooth]

I have seen Pingu DVD's for 5.99 in best buys and Walmarts... It's pretty cute... but I'm not a real fan... It's clay animated, if you are wondering....

[Douglas Fir]

Does anyone have a scan of the cover yet?

I was originally put off by this being a 2 episode disc - but now that it's a 3 episode disc (in episode order no-less!) I may be inerested if I can get it for a good price somewhere (probably eBay).

[Oliver]

So why exactly will there be an episode of a claymation penguin on this forthcoming Fraggle Rock DVD?

[anathema]

Oh, that would explain it than...

Does Columbia still hold distro rights solely in the UK and do you think that extra documentary footage was exclusive to Columbia and would have to be licensed out for use or would Hit have access to similair material here in the US?
Columbia's license with Henson expired at the end of last month IIRC.

The rights to "Down At Fraggle Rock" will remain with whichever company owns the programme - it's up to them who they choose to license it to.

Since it's already been mentioned that this disc will contain trailers for other HIT titles, it seems probable that the "Pingu" thing is a trailer - certainly there's no sense in putting an episode on the disc!

[Douglas Fir]

Since it's already been mentioned that this disc will contain trailers for other HIT titles, it seems probable that the "Pingu" thing is a trailer - certainly there's no sense in putting an episode on the disc!

If they're aiming this release at kids (which looks the case) it makes perfect sense to throw one episode of another show on as an extra. The kid is more likely to watch an episode of Pingu than a trailer and if he likes that episode he'll probably persuade his Mom to buy him a Pingu DVD the next time he's in Wal-Mart!

[baby sinclair]

Aww this sux only 8 videos per store.will they ship anymore in after wards i really wanna get my hands on one of these dvd's.I hope they save one for me tomorrow. :smirk:

[Brian Damage]

I reckon eBay's my only hope...

[Oliver]

So is this still considered a "test release" or is this what us Fraggle fans should expect from coming releases... zero marketing and promotion for excessively limited production runs and exclusive distribution rights with Wal-Mart in the U.S. for 3 episode bargain bin discs?

I really hope HIT! releases some sort of press statement in the coming weeks as to where they intend to take their newly aquired franchise...

I will likely be picking this up, but I have to say that so far I'm still not too impressed.

[Warrick]

Check my site...

www.ExploreFraggleRock.cjb.net

:smirk: :excited:

[Douglas Fir]

Check my site...

www.ExploreFraggleRock.cjb.net

:smirk: :excited:

That's a pretty nice looking cover for a budget DVD! Let's hope they sell enough to at least get a season's worth out there (the first season was only 12 episodes - right?!?! So they only need 3 more similar DVDs to do a full season!!!).

[Boober_Gorg]

(the first season was only 12 episodes - right?!?!Nope, it was 24.

It's not in my Wal-Mart today either. :boo:

[Douglas Fir]

Nope, it was 24.

In which case ignore me! :)

[McFraggle]

That's a pretty nice looking cover for a budget DVD! Let's hope they sell enough to at least get a season's worth out there (the first season was only 12 episodes - right?!?! So they only need 3 more similar DVDs to do a full season!!!).

That is nice looking cover art. I hope I can get a copy soon.

[Phillip Chapman]

Since the disc has now been released. Post your thoughts on the DVD here...

http://forum.muppetcentral.com/showthread.php?t=15400