PBS Distribution (Warning Screens)

From the Audiovisual Identity Database, the motion graphics museum

1st Warning (1989-1990)


Visuals: Over a red background is the white Warning text scrolling up.

Technique: Scrolling effects.

Audio: None.

Availability: Seen on early PBS Home Video releases distributed by Pacific Arts.

2nd Warning (1991-1994)


Visuals: Same as the previous warning, only it scrolls up against a light blue background.

Technique: Same as the previous warning.

Audio: None.

Availability: Seen on PBS Home Video releases distributed by Pacific Arts, including The Astronomers and Frontline: The Spirit of Crazy Horse.


3rd Warning (1994-1997)

Same as the Turner Home Entertainment warning at the time.

4th Warning (1997-2004)

Visuals: On a black background, there is a red square with the letters "FBI" in a white, somewhat thin font and the blue FBI logo below the letters at the top left. On the right and bottom of the logo we see the generic warning text in white.

Technique: A still, computerized graphic.

Audio: None.

Availability: Used for PBS DVD releases. Also seen on early HBO DVDs.


5th Warning (1998?-2004)

Same as the Warner Home Video warning at the time.

6th Warning (July 28, 2009-2021?)

Visuals: On a gray background with the PBS Circle P-head logo in the background is the word "WARNING" in yellow. Under it is the white warning text.

Variant: On earlier DVDs, the text is expanded.

Technique: A still, digital graphic.

Audio: None.

Availability: Used on PBS DVD and Blu-Ray releases from 2009 until 2021, starting with Super Why!: Jack and the Beanstalk.

7th Warning (2020-)

Visuals: It's the text "WARNING" and below is the white warning text.

Technique: A still, digital graphic.

Audio: None.

Availability: Used on PBS DVD and Blu-Ray releases since 2020.


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