Indy' Sets DVD Box Set Record

By: Brad Brevet
Published: Wednesday, October 29th 2003 at 6:58 PM

The Adventures of Indiana Jones — The Complete DVD Movie Collection became the fastest-selling DVD movie collection of all time with more than $50 million in retail sales in the U.S. and Canada since its release on Oct. 21.

"There was significant demand for this box set across a very broad consumer base," said Thomas Lesinski, President of Paramount Pictures, Worldwide Home Entertainment. "Sales were so brisk during the first four days that many retailers had a hard time keeping the collection in stock over the weekend."

In its first week, the Indiana Jones DVD collection sold more than 1.1 million units, said Jim Ward, Vice President of Marketing and Distribution for Lucasfilm Ltd.

"This is just the beginning of what looks to be a long and very successful run for Indiana Jones at DVD retailers," Ward said. "We couldn't be more pleased about the fantastic sales figures, but probably the best news is that we delivered a collection that lived up to the enormously high expectations that Indiana Jones fans had for this movie collection. We know that Indy is at the top of their holiday gift lists, as well, so we're looking forward to strong results through the end of the year."

Critics had near-unanimous praise for the boxed set. "Break out the whips and fedoras!" raved Entertainment Weekly in a "Grade: A" review. "It's Lucas-sleek yet Spielberg-accessible." The Sacramento Bee called it "a triumphant achievement." Across the Atlantic, sentiments were just as positive. Wrote the U.K.'s Empire Magazine: "As far as DVD goes, this is the Holy Grail."

Added Ward: "Our top priority was making sure these movies looked and sounded better than ever, so a new generation of fans can discover them for the first time. The reviews are really pleased with the quality of the discs and the bonus materials."

The four-disc set provides viewers with more than 10 hours of entertainment. Disc 1 offers the completely remastered Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark. On Disc 2 is Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, while Disc 3 offers Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. Disc 4 holds the bonus material, including an exclusive link to special material at http://www.indianajones.com.