edit in 2025: didn’t think when writing this, that my 20 years late response would revive this thread.
The Special Editions are what most members grew up with, but not all members. The special editions were not that bad, but people insult them because after the release of the VHS/LaserDisc/DVD of the 1997 Special Edition, people realised the original versions will never be re-released again. (forget the 2006 bonus discs). And that is the reason why so many complain about the Special Editions, but sure, there are some who actually hate the special editions.