If people are prepared to watch DVD rips converted into DIVX, VCD or even filmed by camcorder in a cinema, why do the movie companies feel that down sampling HD-DVD to slightly less than DVD quality (when the chain of trust is broken) is going to be any deterrent.
The movie studio's could drastically reduce piracy if they released the DVD/HD-DVD at the same time as the film is released in the cinema's. They would also need to release the film in all countries at the same time as well.
Otherwise there will always be a market for pirates (or the internet) to satisfy the customers who don't want to visit a cinema to watch the latest film. (Or why not be able to purchase a latest release via your cable/sky box?)
I remember when movies were only released to VHS after about 4 years they were shown in the cinema. When they were made available they cost a small fortune. I remember a friend of mine in school whose father used to get a lot of pirated VHS movies and the quality was very poor, yet this was the only way to watch ET at home! And the poor quality was only a deterrent if the film was completely unwatchable. (and it took a lot to be unwatchable...)
Music Piracy and Movies Piracy is the fault of the film and music industry for trying to protect its vested interests in its vertical markets. (Their music shops, cinemas, and distribution companies make a tidy profit, and this is the reason why they charge you £12 for an album... They own the complete chain... Production, Marketing, Distribution, Retail.... Each taking its cut, each cut going back to same company - Generally speking, as there is competition between the big 4 music companies!!!)
They are not giving the customer what they want. And are being punished for that mistake. Suing your customers for getting you business model wrong.... Mindless. I have nothing but contempt for the music/film company fat cats. Why should a Queen or a Doors album from 1978 still cost £13? Make it available online for £1. And when I buy it, give me the option of mailing out the inlay and CD case for an additional £2. You bet...
In fact the record companies should accept there is going to be piracy (at some level) and setup a website where you could buy legit CD/Inlay cases to go with your p2p MP3's. Could be a good money earner for them. At least they get something back, and its not a complete lost cause. And best for them, they probably wont have to pay a penny to the artist for sending out a n inlay, unlike if they sent out a CD.
But back on topic and nearing the end of my massive rant. They are completely clueless. Now is the time to buy shares in the company that makes those HDMI cables.