Tokyo Godfathers Blu-ray + DVD: Worth the Upgrade?

By GKIDS Store— GKIDS Films | Published: 2026-10-26

Category: Buying Guides

Deciding whether to upgrade Tokyo Godfathers from DVD to Blu-ray? We break down picture quality, bonus features, and value to help you choose.

Quick Answer

If you already own the DVD and love Satoshi Kon's Tokyo Godfathers, the Blu-ray + DVD combo pack is a worthwhile upgrade—especially for the improved picture quality and the convenience of having both formats in one set.

Why Upgrade from DVD to Blu-ray?

DVDs cap out at standard definition, which can look soft and dated on modern TVs. A Blu-ray offers a sharper image with better color and detail, which matters for a visually rich film like Tokyo Godfathers. Satoshi Kon's animation is packed with intricate background art and subtle character expressions that benefit from the higher resolution.

The Blu-ray + DVD combo pack also gives you flexibility. If you have a Blu-ray player in your living room but an older DVD player in another room, you can watch either disc without rebuying the movie.

What About Special Features?

For collectors, bonus content can tip the scales. While the exact special features on this release aren't specified in the catalog, the Blu-ray format typically allows for more substantial extras compared to DVD. If you're a completionist who wants every behind-the-scenes featurette and interview, the combo pack is the safer bet.

If you're only interested in the film itself and don't care about extras, the DVD alone might suffice—but the price difference is often small enough that the combo pack still makes sense.

Decision Rules for Upgrading

If you own the DVD and watch on a large TV: Upgrade to the Blu-ray + DVD combo pack. The higher resolution will noticeably improve the picture on screens 40 inches and larger. Check your TV size: if it's under 40 inches, the difference may be less obvious.
If you're a Satoshi Kon completionist: Buy the combo pack to ensure you have the best available version of the film and any potential bonus features that may not be on the DVD. Look for a list of special features on the packaging to confirm what's included.
If you only watch movies occasionally: Stick with the DVD if you already own it and have no immediate plans to upgrade your player or TV. The story remains the same. Consider your viewing setup: if you have a Blu-ray player, the upgrade is low-cost and future-proof.

Product Facts

Tokyo Godfathers [Blu-ray + DVD]: Tokyo Godfathers is a holiday classic from director Satoshi Kon, known for Paprika and Perfect Blue, and follows three homeless people who find an abandoned baby on Christmas Eve. This is a beloved film with a dedicated fan base, so the upgrade is about preserving the visual experience of a masterpiece, not just adding a new disc to your shelf.
Tokyo Godfathers [Blu-ray + DVD]

Who Should Buy This Combo Pack?

Best for

Fans of Satoshi Kon who want the best possible home video presentation
Collectors who value having both Blu-ray and DVD for flexibility
Viewers with a Blu-ray player and a high-definition TV

Not for

Casual viewers who already own the DVD and don't notice picture quality differences
Those without a Blu-ray player or HD TV, where the upgrade offers little benefit