I'll be running these Now & Then pieces as part of the HD Guide as I have the opportunity to show how disc packaging is both evolving and stepping backward in other respects when it comes to design.

The most notable design difference between the original DVD slipcase editions of Magnolia and Boogie Nights and this Tuesday's (19 Jan 2010) Blu-rays is artistry. The Blus include all of the same extras, but lack the old-school, "LP feel" of the DVDs. I don't miss the bulk, but the "wow" factor of before has been deleted. I can definitely support the HD upgrade in sound and video, however (both are glorious and color-rich, I might add).

The primary culprit is the nothing-special standard Blu-ray plastic cases.

The original Platinum Series case that was a major standout in its day. PT Anderson had a direct hand in designing these just as David Fincher did on the Seven one that reproduced the killer's journals.

The one missing feature that didn't make the shift to Blu-ray on Magnolia is the Gag Reel that was hidden in the color bars option.

The essay written out on the inner flaps of Boogie Nights' deluxe set is nowhere to be found on the Blu-ray. Otherwise, all of the on-disc features remain, not including easter eggs. I like having all the extras on one disc and in a smaller, thinner package, but I have to admit that I miss the printed material. At least put it on the disc in digital form, y'know? This is a trend seen also evident on the Clerks Blu-ray, which lacks the excellent booklet included with the Clerks X set.

The HD Guide is an ongoing series focusing on the evolving world of HD in the home: getting started, understanding the lingo, and appreciating the best (and worst) discs that are out there.