Yep , it seams that HD-DVD owners will never see high-def orcs or goblins ... why , because New Line had decided to go Blu-ray exclusive , just like its owner , Warner . This wasnt unexpected , but still , its a great news . It seams that the HD war could be over in matter of months .

 http://www.themanroom.com/news/news/New_Line_Confirms_Going_Blu-ray_Exclusive/1889

Correct me if I'm wrong, but New Line owns The Lord of the Rings franchise.

Now THAT is a huge blow.

Can someone say "R.I.P HD-DVD?

It's over...Who else does HD-DVD have before Blu-ray picks them up?

 Yup...looks like HD DVD also pulled out of their press conference for CES 2008.  It appears they want to reevaulate the viability of tehir format with the principle investors.

LoTR High-Def in Blu-Ray _-_...

Sweet - goodbye region free movies, hello region locking!!!!!! I am too excited!

Universal Studios and Paramount, I believe are HD DVD exclusive...for now.

 your point.. at least Sony's regions are 100% better then DVD's. Region 1 is USA and Japan. That is good! Especially for anime fans like me!! =D 

Now it looks something like this:

Blu Ray

- Warner Brothers

- Disney

- 20th Century Fox

- New Line

- MGM

- Lionsgate

- Sony Pictures Entertainment

HD-DVD  (soon to be Blu Ray)

- Paramount

- Universal Studios

- The Weinsten Company

 Paramount cant come back to Blu-ray till their contract is up (end of the year) or HD-DVD folds.