Bonus Video

特典影像 (Bonus Video) refers to video content included by audio-visual distributors in addition to the main program. It may include behind-the-scenes footage, interviews, music videos, trailers, TV clips, alternate cuts, short live performances, or still image videos, and serves to expand the scope of a specific release. “Bonus” describes its status relative to the main content; it is not a video genre.

The status of the same material can vary across different products. A music video may be the main feature on a single-track DVD but appear as a bonus on a concert Blu-ray; a full-length documentary on a limited-edition bonus disc may also be marketed as a “special feature.” Determinations should be made based on the disc structure, menu layout, and release notes, rather than categorizing all short videos under a single label. Special features may be located on the main disc’s menu, a separate Bonus Disc, a download code, or via online access. They may use lower resolution than the main feature, different aspect ratios, or a different audio codec due to differences in the source era and storage allocation. Main features labeled “HD” or “remastered” do not automatically upgrade earlier standard-definition bonus content.

“Bonus Video” and “Bonus Track” refer to video and audio bonus content, respectively; a live song performance with video typically falls under the former, even if the music is the primary focus. Additional songs on an audio-only disc remain tracks and do not become videos simply because they are labeled “bonus.”

The designation “bonus” does not imply that the content is unimportant, nor does it guarantee that all region-specific editions will include it. Copyright restrictions, subtitles, censorship, storage capacity, and marketing strategies may result in omissions; when comparing versions, it is necessary to verify specific titles and running times rather than relying solely on a general “includes bonus features” label.