Constantin Film which is the leader distributor in Germany of independent films has gone the same direction as Warner in supporting the Blu-ray format exclusively.
Recently, Constantin had supported both formats; however, once March 1st arrives, it will switch its priorities 100% to the Blu-ray market.
“By taking this trendsetting decision, the market-leading U.S. film group has helped to bring about faster the urgently needed clarification of the situation and to end the ‘format war’ that has been going on for years now,” Constantin said in a statement.
Franz Woodtli, who is Constantin’s home entertainment director had this to add to the story, "In taking our decision in favor of the Blu-ray format, we are clearly following the international trend. The longstanding dispute about the successor to the DVD caused considerable uncertainty among consumers in 2007 in particular and has led to a delay in the mainstream introduction of hi-def as a result. Clear positioning therefore has advantages for consumers, producers and retailers."
Though this may be a small studio in pan of many, it is still a significant studio for an entire country. Little by little the support for Blu-ray has been turning and it’s no surprise that the little guys are following suit.