Middle-Earth Ultimate Collector's Edition is Here

The Middle-Earth Ultimate Collector’s Edition is here but if you’re a die-hard fan, it’s best to hold onto The Lord of the Rings Blu-rays.

This 11-disc set includes the films on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and Digital. The Blu-ray discs have been remastered off of the 4K master. As is customary, both theatrical and extended versions of the film are included. Perhaps the biggest disappointment about either this set or last year’s LOTR and Hobbit sets do not the bonus features that came with the original Blu-ray sets. Last year’s 4K sets did not include any bonus content. While the new one does contain some bonus features, it’s not enough to get rid of the Blu-ray discs. No, you’re going to need to hold onto those.

You do get some goodies in the unique “Puzzle Box” collectible packaging. The 64-page booklet features costumes, photography and production notes from the film. Additionally, there are art cards featuring travel posters and images from iconic locations throughout Middle-earth including The Shire, Lake-Town, Erebor, Anduin, Rohan, Minas Trith, and Rivendell.

Make no mistake that this set features some of the best films made in cinematic history. However, I feel that another such edition will get a release down the line in order to make up for the aforementioned flaws. I said the same thing last year with regards to bonus content. What is the point of calling this the ultimate collector’s edition when it feels like it’s missing lot of bonus features? Ultimately, you will have to make the right decision for yourself.

Bonus Features

Cannes Film Festival Presentation Reel
Alamo Drafthouse Cast Reunion
- “The Fellowship of the Ring” – RT: 39:38 (with Billy Boyd, Dominic Monaghan, Sean Astin and Elijah Wood)
- “The Two Towers” – RT: 32:24 (with Cate Blanchett, Orlando Bloom, Liv Tyler and Viggo Mortenson)
- “The Return of the King” – RT: 29:48 (with Ian McKellan, Andy Serkis, and Peter Jackson)