4K Digital Review of TRON: ARES

 

I am one of those people who have grown up with Tron and have been a huge fan since watching the first one on the big screen. I was eight when the first one hit theaters. The visuals and the story drew me in. Then I had to wait twenty-eight years for the sequel. Disney seemed geared up to take the franchise to the next level. Promotion for Tron: Legacy was everywhere from shoes, to clothes, to Daft Punk on the soundtrack to elecTRONica, a night party in Disney California Adventure Park. The movie opened and the box office return was less than stellar. So, here we are, fifteen years later, and while we don't get the exact sequel to Legacy, we get another Tron movie.

ENCOM and Dillinger are still going back and forth with one another for control of the digital world. They are using The Grid to try to advance their companies forward. They have both figured out how to bring digital items from The Grid into our world. The only problem is that the digital programs can only exist in our world for 29 minutes. Now the search is on for the permanence code that Flynn (Jeff Bridges) hid in his original code. ENCOM CEO Eve Kim (Greta Lee) finds the code before Dillinger CEO Julian (Evan Peters). Julian sends his security program, Ares (Jared Leto) after Eve.

Video:

The 4K video stream is stunning. In the real world, the colors are dark and moody. In The Grid, the bright colors really shine. There are so many fine details to point out. Facial details, skin tones, and materials all look amazing. The digital world looks clean and believable. Blacks are so deep and inky. Colors and shadows all look impressive. A demo worthy visual experience.

Audio:

The Dolby Atmos audio track matches the gorgeous visuals. The Nine Inch Nails score matches the moody visuals of the film perfectly. Dialogue is crisp and clean. The surrounds get a good workout. 

Bonus Features:

• Deleted Scenes
• Seth’s Date
• Burning Man
• Lisberger Cameo
• Featurettes:
• The Journey To Tron: Ares: Go on a personal journey with Jared Leto, director Joachim Rønning and other cast and crew members for an in-depth making-of look showcasing the stunning visuals, incredible stunts, cool (but heavy) costumes, and next-level sets of Tron: Ares.
• Lightcycles On The Loose: Join director Joachim Rønning as he peels back the layers of one of the most action-packed sequences in the film. Discover what ILM and the artists who grew up loving the franchise contributed, and what other iconic film the sequence pays homage to.
• The Artistry Of Tron: Ares: Director Joachim Rønning and actor-producer Jared Leto sit down to discuss their journey creating Tron: Ares. The pair unpack key moments and the striking visual, sonic and artistic philosophies that drive the storytelling both in and out of the Grid.
• Cast Conversations: Join the cast in candid conversations as they reflect on stepping into character, memorable on-set experiences, funny anecdotes and personal insights. Get a glimpse of the off-screeHi [NAME],
• n camaraderie that shines in their electric on-screen synergy. 
• The Legacy Of Tron: Decades after Tron first took the world by storm, and with Tron: Legacy in between, there’s loads of nostalgia to mine for Tron: Ares. Catch some clever easter eggs and noteworthy cameos as this enduring franchise continues to leave its mark

Conclusion:

A fun, solid, well-told Tron movie that seriously under-performed at the box office. We will probably never see another Tron movie again. Good bonus material along with incredible audio and video will still make this one of 2025's top demo discs. A welcomed addition to your library if you are a Tron fan like myself.

4K Digital Review of Edward Scissorhands 35th Anniversary

 

Edward Scissorhands is celebrating its 35th Anniversary with its first release in 4K. This is a story that Burton took from his personal experience of isolation growing up in suburban Burbank, CA. This might still be Burton's most personal story to date.

Johnny Depp plays Edward Scissorhands, an unfinished experiment who has scissor blades for hands. He lives in an old mansion that belonged to The Inventor (Vincent Price), who passed away before he had a chance to give Edward hands. Then comes Peg Boggs (Dianne Wiest), an Avon saleswoman, who finds Edwards and brings him home with her. The entire neighborhood goes into disarray with the arrival of  Edward. But there are some that love Edward and this includes Peg's daughter Kim (Winona Ryder).

For a movie that means so much to so many, this is the power of storytelling  and the power of Tim Burton. He tells stories that reach a wide variety of people. He tells stories that might seem inhumane but are innately human.    

Video:

The 4K transfer looks very similar to the one they did for the 25th Anniversary Blu-ray. The pastels of the houses, the inky blacks of the shadows, and the details on such things as Edward's suit and facial scars look amazing. But where using an old transfer suffers is in the amount of film grain. We have seen fine work from Disney recently with the 4K restoration of Master and Commander: The Far Side of The World. So, hopefully we will get a new 4K transfer for the 40th Anniversary edition. 

Audio:

The Dolby Atmos soundtrack is also based off the surround sound track for the previous Blu-ray. But here, they did a really nice job in boosting the environmental effects and the Danny Elfman score. The score sweeps around you as does the sound of the scissors cutting. A nice audio upgrade all-around. 

Bonus Materials:

• Featurette – Peek behind the scenes and hear the cast & crew of Edward Scissorhands discuss Burton’s unique, modern reinterpretation of Frankenstein
• Audio Commentary by Director Tim Burton
• Audio Commentary by Composer Danny Elfman
• Theatrical Trailers

Conclusion:

It makes me sad that such a charming and personal Tim Burton film gets only a minor upgrade when it comes to the video and no new bonus material. The audio does get a nice upgrade. If you already have the old Blu-ray, then this is A Worth A look at best. 

Edward Scissorhands is now available on digital and 4K UHD. 

*The film was provided by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the purpose of this review and the review is strictly my own opinion*

4K Digital Review of The Roses

 

The Roses is a modern take on The War of The Roses that came out in 1989. That movie starred Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner. This version stars Olivia Colman as Ivy and Benedict Cumberbatch as Theo. We see the two meet in London, where Theo's architectural firm is having a confab at a restaurant, where Ivy is the chef. It's love at first sight and the two move to Southern California, get married and have children. 

Suddenly, Theo's career tanks, while Ivy's skyrockets. As their relationship begins to fall apart, the dream home that Theo designed for Ivy becomes an obsession for both characters. And while there are differences between the source book and the first film, the rough outline of the story is similar. It falls apart with the sidekicks of this version. They actually bring the movie to a screeching halt rather than helping it propel forward. Sadly, this version never captures the magic of the first one. 

Video:

The 4K streaming video is fairly solid. Fabric textures on clothing and skin tones look fantastic. The Roses' home looks amazingly detailed as well. Some of the blue screened backgrounds though do not blend in as seamlessly as they should but this is a minor issue.

Audio:

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 is solid. Dialogue is clean and clear. There is a lot of environmental effects which makes good use of the side and rear channels. The soundtrack is lively and immerses you. 

Bonus Materials

• Bloopers
• Featurettes:
• A House To Fight For – A behind-the-front-door look at the epicenter of both beauty and acrimony. See the construction of the Roses’ home, hear from the designer and the filmmakers on their vision, and discover the actors’ wish to take everything from the house home with them.
• The Roses: An Inside Look – Hear from the cast and filmmakers about making The Roses. Learn about the actors’ connection and chemistry, and join the grounded, satirical, British, wry wit that only Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch can pull off.
• Comedy Gold – This cast is stacked with comedy talent bringing Tony McNamara’s witty dialogue to life with Jay Roach directing. Even Olivia Colman had to ask about this special cast, “How the F did we get them?”

Conclusion:

This remake of The War of The Roses has great performances from Cumberbatch and Colman. Technical specs are solid and some decent bonus materials make this a good recommendation to add to your library.

The Roses is out on digital now and out on Blu-ray and DVD November 25th. 

*The movie was provided by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the purpose of this review and my review is strictly my opinion.*

4K Digital Review: The Rocky Horror Picture Show: 50th Anniversary

 The Rocky Horror Picture Show Celebrates it's 50th Anniversary. It follows a newly engage couple Brad (Barry Bostwick) and Janet (Susan Sarandon). They experience car trouble in a fierce rainstorm and seek shelter in a castle. The castle owner is the drag-clad Dr. Frank-N-Furter (Tim Curry). His minions, aliens from another planet, are singing and dancing throughout the movie. You get jealousy, murder and a musical all in one movie. This cult classic brings you pretty much everything!  

Video:

This 4K streaming video makes The Rocky Horror Picture Show look the best it ever has. There are so many fine details such as makeup, garters, hairstyles and more. Wait until you see how razor sharp the details are in the castle and in the lab. Colors also really shine here such as reds, as well as skin tones. Blacks are nice and inky.

Audio:

The Dolby Atmos audio track really delivers here. Much of the audio is front and center but it opens up for the song and dance numbers. Vocals are prioritized over the music. A solid audio mix from Disney. 

Bonus Features:

• Audio Commentary featuring Richard O’Brien and Patricia Quinn
• Trivia Track: 50 Years and Still Kicking!
• Vintage Callback Track (Unrated)
• Rocky-oke: Sing It!
• Alternate Version with Black and White Opening (HD 1:40:04)
• Deleted Song “Once In A While” (SD 3:08)
• Outtakes (SD 10:02)
• Alternate Credit Ending (SD 3:45)
• Misprint Ending (SD 1:44)
• The Midnight Experience with the 35th Anniversary Shadowcast
• Search for the 35th Anniversary Shadowcast
• Rocky Horror Double Feature Video Show (SD 36:25)
• The Time Warp Music Video (SD 4:36)
• Bacon Theater, New York City - 10th Anniversary (SD 5:20)
• Trailers

Conclusion:

The cult classic has never looked or sounded better. There is a wealth of bonus material as well. This is a highly recommended addition to your library.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show is now available on digital.

*The movie was provided by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the purpose of this review and the review is strictly my opinion*

Digital Review of Disney's Freakier Friday

 

Twenty years after Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan starred in a remake of Freaky Friday, comes Freakier Friday. Anna Coleman (Lindsay Lohan) is now a single mom and a music producer raising her teenage daughter Harper (Julia Butters). Anna's mom Tess (Jamie Lee Curtis) is also there to help her daughter. 

Life takes a turn when Anna falls in love with Eric Reyes (Manny Jacinto) who also has a daughter Lily (Sophia Hammons). After a reading from a fortune teller, there is a strange tremor that leaves Anna and Harper, and Tess and Lily to swap bodies. 

The film brings laughs, chaotic adventure, and a reminder that the best way to understand someone is to walk in their shoes. 

Video:

For the first time in forever, the digital stream is in 1080p and not in 4K. But the colors and detail here are still wonderful. Primary colors pop and there is a lot of detail in clothing. There is also a lot of bright, sunny Southern California scenes that really shines as well. Overall, a great presentation of the movie.

Audio:

The DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track is put to good use here. The transformation sequence brings in some fun immersive action. The dialogue is clear throughout the movie even when you get all four major characters together.

Digital & Blu-ray Bonus Materials*

• Deleted Scenes – Check out the scenes that didn’t make the final cut.

• Trevor's New Song
• Extended Dance Lesson 
• Anna Cancels Wedding 
• Pickleball Team Announcements 
• Beta Girl Backs Up Lily 
• Intensity Of The V's 
  Blake Doesn't Like What She Hears 
• Malibu 
• Eric Reads Tess's Books 
• School Pickup 

 

• Featurettes:

• Making Things Freakier – More than two decades later, the band is back together! Go behind the scenes as returning cast members talk about reprising their roles. Learn about the stunts, taking on each other’s mannerisms – and how this film is a love letter to Los Angeles.

 

• Where Were You When... – Join the original cast as they reflect on the fun and magic of the 2003 production and learn where new cast members were in 2003. Writer Jordan Weiss shares a great anecdote that reveals the fandom and staying power of the earlier classic.

 

• Flashback Friday – This playful, narrated piece reveals the hidden nods to 2003’s Freaky Fridayalong with some “freakier” fun facts about the sequel.

 

• "Baby" Lyric Music Video – Catch this heartfelt lyric video that combines clips from the movie with behind-the-scenes production footage.

Conclusion:

A fun movie that plays a lot on nostalgia. Strange to not see this as a 4K release but there is outstanding video and audio along with some fun bonus content that will make this a fun addition to your library.

Freakier Friday is available on digital, DVD and Blu-ray now. 

*The movie was sent by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the purpose of this review and the review is strictly my opinion.*

4K Digital Review of The Sound of Music

 

The Sound of Music Celebrates arrives in a stunning restored and remastered 4K version for its 60th Anniversary. It is one of my favorite movies of all-time. I don't think I have ever seen a movie that is more joyful or optimistic. Here you can believe in the possibilities of love, that good will triumph over evil and the power of song.

Based on a true story that is known the world over, Julie Andrews plays Maria, who may never become a proper nun. She is sent to Salzburg to become the governess to the seven von Trapp children. Their father, Georg (Christopher Plummer), is a widower and a former Navy captain. He runs the household with strict military discipline. Maria wins over the children by letting them be children. They learn to sing and enjoy life. The Captain begins to see the change in his children and his heart begins to open. He even breaks off his engagement to the cold Baroness Schraeder (Eleanor Parker) to marry Maria. But there is danger out there. The Nazi threat looms over Austria and the von Trapps. The Nazis want the captain for their Navy and he makes a desperate escape with the entire family to safety over the Swiss Alps.    

Video:

The 4K Digital video is stunning. The 4K scan is from a brand new 8K scan with color correction and restoration work done. The details are absolutely eye-popping. A few examples include, the individual blades of grass as Maria sings at the opening of the movie, the details of the fabric on all the clothing and the stonework on the von Trapp home. The Sound of Music has never looked better.   

Audio:

The Dolby Atmos soundtrack is an equally stunning upgrade to go along with the video. The enhancement is immediately noticeable with the opening song. You will be completely surrounded by Maria's crystal clear vocals and the orchestration. Outdoor atmospheric ambiance is placed smartly. Dialogue is clean and clearly placed. An outstanding audio effort to accompany the amazing video.

Bonus Features (Bonus features vary by product and retailer)

• Sing-Along Version 
• Commentary by Julie Andrews, Christopher Plummer, Charmian Carr, Dee Dee Wood & Johannes von Trapp 
• Commentary by Robert Wise
• The Sound of a City Documentary - Julie Andrews returns to Salzburg, Austria
• A City of Song - Filming locations in Salzburg, Austria
• Musical Stages - The songs, the show & the family
• Vintage Programs - The Sound of Music, Rodgers and Hammerstein, location interviews, and audio interviews
• Rare Treasures - Julie and Carol at Carnegie Hall: The Pratt Family Singers, The Julie Andrews Hour: Julie Andrews and Maria Von Trapp, Screen Tests, 40th Anniversary DVD Introduction by Julie Andrews, and galleries
• Publicity - Fox Movietone News - Academy Awards,®, trailers and teasers, TV spots, and radio spots

Conclusion:

One of my favorite films of all-time has never looked or sounded better. While the bonus features have been ported over from other Anniversary sets, this version is still highly recommended.

The Sound of Music is available now on digital.

*The movie was provided by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the purpose of this review and the review is strictly my opinion.* 

4K Digital Review of The Fantastic Four: First Steps

 

I am a huge Marvel fan and have been watching every movie and TV Series in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. While I have enjoyed some of the movies and series after Endgame, I feel like Marvel lost their momentum and didn't know where to go from there. But Thunderbolts was a return to form for me as was The Fantastic Four: First Steps. It is focused on being a character driven film instead of what's next and leading towards a major Marvel film event like an Avengers film. 

We are introduced to The Fantastic Four in another universe. They have been spending the last several years protecting their Earth. Reed Richards (Pedro Pascal) and his wife Sue Storm (Vanessa Kirby) are expecting their first child. Johnny Storm (Joseph Quinn) and Ben Grimm (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) are going to become uncles. The world seems to be in harmony. Then, Silver Surfer (Julie Garner) arrives to warn of the arrival of Galactus (Ralph Ineson). Galactus feeds upon entire planets to sustain himself and is heading towards Earth.

The Fantastic Four believe they can bargain with Galactus to protect the planet. It turns out that the only thing Galactus wants is to give his role as eater of planet's to another. A being that is powerful enough to take on the role and not be consumed by it.  A being born of two powerful metahumans. This would be Franklin, the unborn child of Reed and Sue. 

Video:

The streaming 4K video is beautiful. The world is a retro-future one and the colors are softer. Primary colors do pop off the screen. Finer details such a as clothing materials and skin tones are wonderful. Shiny and bright colors such as Silver Surfer, Galactus and Johnny's orange flames also really stand out. A fantastic video transfer from Disney and Marvel.  

Audio:

The Dolby Atmos soundtrack is solid. The surrounds will get a good workout due to all of the environmental sounds and some great actions sequences. Dialogue is crystal clear and the score is subtle and plays nicely in the background. A fantastic audio mix from Disney and Marvel.

Bonus Features:

• Deleted Scenes – Check out the scenes that didn’t make the final cut.

o Thanksgiving Soup Kitchen

o Fantastic Four Day

o Subterranea

o Birthday Sweater

o Taking Turns

• Gag Reel – Enjoy fun outtakes on set with the cast and crew of The Fantastic Four: First

Steps.

• Featurettes:

o Meet The First Family – The creation of the Fantastic Four saved Marvel Comics in

1961 and has only flourished as years have passed. Matt Shakman and the cast

explain how they found themselves gravitating toward each role and creating the

ultimate family unit.

o Fantastic Futurism – The filmmakers discuss the process of immersing the cast

and crew in the film’s retro-futuristic aesthetic. Join Matt Shakman and crew as they

discuss the experience of shooting in gigantic mid-century New York sets and

stepping into an otherworldly era.

o From Beyond and Below – The team explores bringing complex characters from

the page to the screen, including a larger-than-life Galactus, grounded Harvey

Elder/Mole Man, and an emotionally rich Silver Surfer.

• Audio Commentary – Watch the film with audio commentary by director Matt Shakman

and production designer Kasra Farahani.

Conclusion:

A fantastic introduction to Marvel's first family into the MCU. I look forward to seeing where they go from here and how they enter the rest of the MCU that we already know. Fantastic video and audio with some wonderful bonus features including a good audio commentary make this a highly recommended addition to your library.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps is available now on digital, DVD, Blu-ray and 4K UHD.

*The movie was sent by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the purpose of this review and the review is strictly my own opinion.*

4K Digital Review of TRON: Legacy

 

TRON: Legacy begins in 1989, seven years after the events of the original film. Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges) is the CEO of ENCOM and is leading them into the future. And suddenly, without warning, Flynn disappears. Flynn's friend Alan Bradley (Bruce Boxleitner) is left in control of ENCOM until Flynn's son Sam is old enough to take control. Now, 20 years later, Sam (Garrett Hedlund), is as tech savvy as his father. A message leads him to his dad's old arcade and he is teleported into the digital world. Here Sam is captured and forced to play in the games. The games are a life and death battle involving energy disc battles and lightcycle duels.  Sam quickly learns that he was brought here by CLU, a program who looks just like Flynn. CLU is in control of the digital world and sees users such as Flynn and Sam as the ones holding the programs from realizing their full potential. Sam is rescued by Quorra (Olivia Wilde), a program who is friends with Flynn. As father and son are reunited I nthe digital world, Sam now must decide to not interfere with CLU and his intentions of stop CLU and get back to the real world. 

Video:

TRON: Legacy was remastered from the original digital sources and upgraded to 4K. The results are unbelievably stunning to say the very least. You get sharper, better defined details throughout. The blacks are inky and facial features and skin tones looks lifelike. The transfer is gorgeous and demo-worthy.

Audio:

The Dolby Atmos soundtrack is as impressive as the video. The sound envelopes you as atmospheric effects travel seamlessly all around you. When Sam enters The Grid, you are surrounded by digital noises. From the sounds of disc wars flying around you, the hum of the lightcycle, the Recognizers hovering above you with their deep bass and the sound of light jets flying just above your head. You will feel as if you and not Sam were in The Grid.

Bonus Material:

• Launching the Legacy (HD – 10:20)
• Visualizing TRON (HD – 11:46)
• Installing the Cast (HD – 12:04)
• Disc Roars (HD – 3:00)
• The Speed of Light (HD – 9:49)

Conclusion:

While not as groundbreaking as the original, TRON: Legacy still delivers a visually stunning world. The video and the audio are demo-worthy. The supplements are lacking and just brought over from the previous Blu-ray. But this is still highly recommended for your library.

TRON: Legacy is now available to own on digital, Blu-ray and 4K UHD.

*The movie was sent by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the sole purpose of this review and the review is strictly my opinion.*

4K Digital Review of TRON (1982)

 

Back in 1982, personal computers were not even a thought for the average household. Computer animation was not a thing. We were still years away from the internet. Artificial Intelligence (AI) was unknown to the masses. TRON debuted in theaters and it wasn't just a film ahead of its time, it was the start of a revolution. A film meant to push the boundaries of animation, has influenced just about everything that we know today. It has pioneered computer graphics in movies, pushed music and computer interfaces.

TRON focuses on Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges), a brilliant programmer at ENCOM. Flynn's rival Edward Dillinger (David Warner), stole two of his best video game programs and used them to move up the ranks of ENCOM. Determined to find evidence that Dillinger stole his work, Flynn wants to hack into the company's Master Control Program (MCP). With the help of his ENCOM employee/friends Alan Bradley (Bruce Boxleitner) and Lora Baines (Cindy Morgan), Flynn gains access to ENCOM. While trying to hack into the system, the MCP uses a laser to transport Flynn into the virtual world of its system. Flynn discovers a world that only serves the MCP. Alan Bradley has created a security program he calls TRON who helps Flynn fight the MCP and hopefully return Flynn back to the human world.

Video:

The 4K streaming video is sourced from a brand-new restoration and remaster from the film's original negatives. TRON has never looked better. The video is extremely crisp and sharp. The glow of the red and blue hues in the digital world are impressive.  Blacks are inky and silky. Facial expressions are clean and accurate. A showcase quality restoration from the amazing team at Disney.

Audio:

The streaming Dolby Atmos soundtrack is superb to match the restored video quality. While mostly front channel heavy for most of the movie, the surround channels come in during the digital world. The sound field is enveloping and immersive especially during the games and the final act. Vocals are crystal clear throughout the movie. Another wonderful audio track from Disney.

Bonus Features:

• The TRON Phenomenon (HD – 9:45)
• Photo TRONology (HD – 16:37)
• Original DVD Features
• Development
  • “Computers Are People Too” (SD – 4:28)
• Digital Imagery
  • Digital Imagery in TRON (SD – 3:44)
  • “Beyond TRON” (SD – 4:00)
• The Making of TRON (SD – 88:21)
• Publicity
• Trailer #4 (SD – 1:34)

Conclusion:

TRON has never looked and sounded better. Reference-quality video and a very engaging soundtrack brings this 1982 movie to renewed life. Some good supplements that have been out before. This is a highly recommended addition to your movie library.

TRON is available on digital, Blu-ray and 4K UHD now. 

*The movie was supplied by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the purpose of this review. The review is strictly my own opinion.*

4K Digital Review of Pixar's Elio

 

Elio tells the story of a young boy named Elio (Yonas Kilbreab) who recently just lost both of his parents. Living with his aunt Olga (Zoe Saldana), Elio suffers from loneliness and low self-esteem. Olga is a major in the US Space Force and has no time to be with Elio. She is struggling on how to be a parent and Elio sees this as just another sign that no one wants him. 

Elio overhears that the US Space Force may have come in contact with extraterrestrials, he sends a message to them in hopes they will take him away from Earth. The aliens respond and end up taking him away. These aliens are part of a group of ambassadors of every species of being throughout the universe. They believe that Elio is the leader of Earth and will allow him to join the ambassadors if he can pass some screening tests. This is all Elio has ever wanted to do in life, to belong, to have a purpose. 

The only thing in his way is Lord Grigon (Brad Garrett), a warlord who wants to also become an ambassador for this people. But he is a blood thirsty, war obsessed being that the other ambassadors see and do not allow him to join their group. Lord Grigon is out for revenge and Elio is the only one who can try to stop him. 

Video:

This is an outstanding 4K streaming video transfer. The colors are rich and bright. The space scenes and the ship the ambassadors are on are real standouts here. The details are crisp and sharp. Another wonderful transfer from Disney and Pixar.

Audio:

The Dolby Atmos soundtrack is a winner. Dialogue is crystal clear and the soundtrack immerses you. The surround channels get a good workout from the sounds of spaceships, the fight with Lord Grigon and the welcome to the ambassadors. A solid effort from Disney and Pixar.

Bonus Features:

• Inside the Communiverse: The World and Characters of Elio – Launch behind the scenes with the cast and crew to get an in-depth look at the design and development of our meteoric main characters, as well as the making of all the celestial environments that make up Elio's universe.
• Out of This World: An Astro Q&A – Calling all space enthusiasts! Voice actors Yonas Kibreab (Elio) and Remy Edgerly (Glordon) meet with a real-life astronaut to discuss space travel, possible alien life on other planets, and why it's important to study space.
• Astronomic Art Class: Ooooo and Glordon – Join Nicolle Castro, the lead story artist, as she shares her role on the film and guides viewers through drawing a couple of the film's interstellar characters, Ooooo and Glordon.
• Extraterrestrial Easter Eggs and Fun Facts – Uncover the references and characters from some of your favorite Pixar films hidden throughout Elio, along with other fun facts.
• Galactic Gag Reel – Discover the fun inside the recording booth with the starry voice actors from Disney and Pixar's Elio as they bring their characters to life with some entertaining laughs.
• Deleted Scenes – Check out the scenes that didn't make the final cut:
• Bike Chase
• Garden Party  
• Carver Legend
• Questa's Second Test
• Home Visit

Conclusion:

Elio is a slow burn that sticks the landing for any of us who have felt like we do not belong. A powerfully emotional movie that reminds us that even in the darkest of times we are never alone. And a reminder to embrace what makes us truly unique. Completely unexpected and left me emotionally wrecked. A solid video transfer along with a wonderful audio mix and some fun bonus features makes this a welcomed addition to your library.

Elio is available on digital, 4K UHD, Blu-ray and DVD.

*The film was provided by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the purpose of this review. The review is strictly my own opinion.*

4K Digital Review of Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World

 

Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World is a near perfect film and is on digital, 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray for the first time. 

In the year 1805, Napoleon has conquered all of Europe with the exception of England. All that stands between him and invading England is the Royal British Navy. Captain "Lucky Jack" Aubrey (Russell Crowe), commands the HMS Surprise, a 28-gun frigate, with orders to stop the French 44-gun privateer Acheron. 

Intended to be a trilogy, Master and Commander was based loosely off the acclaimed novels by Patrick O-Brian. While the movie was critically acclaimed and received no less than 10 Academy Award nominations including Best Picture, the box office return was only modest at best. Plus, the film was largely overshadowed by several films including Elf and the epic Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. 

But Master and Commander is a masterclass in world-building. Think James Cameron and Titanic when it comes to attention to detail. You will feel like the 19th Century has come back to life. Much of the movie was shot on a real frigate out on sea. The HMS Rose is still in San Diego and you can still take a tour of this ship. They even built a second full size replica to film at the Fox Baja Studios. Even the actors portraying the ships crew were trained in their sailing responsibilities. 

The heart and soul of this movie is the friendship between Aubrey and Stephen Maturin (Paul Bettany), the ship's doctor and naturalist. While these two men are complete opposites, they share a bond and respect for one another that cannot be broken.    

Video:

The film has been remastered into 4K from the original negatives and the results are stunning. There is so much fine detail to take from fabrics, to skin tones, to hair, to rope and sails. All the colors feel earthy and natural. Just a beautiful remastering job. 

Audio:

The audio is now in a Dolby Atmos mix that must be heard to be believed. The level of immersion is quite remarkable. From exterior shots where you can hear the men yelling at one another from the rigging above you. The interior shots where you can hear the men running on the decks above you. The quiet moments where you can hear the creaking of the ship to the waves hitting the ship's hull. In the battle sequences you can hear the cannon balls shoot past you, the timbers shattering around you and the clanging of swords everywhere.  

Bonus Features:

• The Hundred Days (SD – 68:38)
• In the Wake of O’Brian (SD – 19:24)
• Cinematic Phasmids (SD – 30:02)
• On Sound Design (SD – 17:47)
• Interactive Canon Demonstration (Audio Feature)
• HBO First Look (SD – 25:02)
• Historical and Graphic Trivia Track
• Deleted Scenes (SD – 6 scenes – 24:20 in all)
  • Weighing Anchor (SD – 4:16)
  • Shipboard Life (SD – 9:50)
  • Superstition (SD – 3:20)
  • Dentistry (SD – 1:08)
  • Articles of War (SD – 2:43)
  • Galapagos (SD – 3:00)
• Multi-Camera Shooting (SD – 6 angles – 2:42)
  • Surprising the Surprise
    • 4 Camera Setup (SD – 6 angles – 2:42)
  • The Final Battle
    • 4 Camera Setup (SD – 6 angles – 5:19)
    • 3 Camera Setup (SD – 5 angles – 2:08)
    • 2 Camera Setup (SD – 4 angles – 1:59)
  • Split-Screen Vignette (SD – 4:30)
• Trailers
  • Theatrical Teaser (SD – 1:19)
  • Theatrical Trailer (SD - 2:43)
  • International Trailer (SD – 1:02)

Conclusion:

A perfect film filled with an unbreakable friendship, historical authenticity, and an amazing naval adventure. Solid video and immersive audio along with great bonus features will make Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World a welcomed addition to your film library.

*The movie was sent by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the this review. The review I strictly my own opinion.*

4K Digital Review of Lilo & Sitch (2025)

 

One of my favorite Disney animated films has been given the live-action treatment. Director Dean Fleischer Camp (Marcel the Shell with Shoes On) gives us a more character driven take on the animated classic. It is more grounded and utilizes Hawaiian culture as part of the heart and soul of the movie and not just a cultural backdrop. The bond between Lilo and Nani is where this movie shines. 

Lilo (Maia Kealoha) is a misunderstood little girl who is imaginative and feels like she doesn't fit in. Her sister Nani (Sydney Agudong) is a high school student struggling to raise her sister while grieving over the loss of their parents. She is also trying to finish high school and work to make ends meet. The supporting characters bring warmth while not taking anything away from the heart of the story. Amy Hill's Tutu is the perfect caring auntie. David (Kaipo Dudoit) gives Nani quiet support and encouragement. Tia Carrere as the social worker provides caring and understanding. Changes to the story and to the characters from the animated version do not take away from the originals fun and chaos but also bring in dealing with grief and displacement.

Stitch, voiced once again by Chris Sanders, is still the same ball of chaotic energy with a lot of heart as well. Here he complicates matters rather than fixing them. When he begins to change, it feels genuine and not just a plot point.  

In the end, Lilo & Stitch is more than just action sequences and laughs. It is about ohana, who is your family and who is there for you. It is about the connections of family, friends, culture and what it means to love and fight through adversity.

Video:

While not flawless, the 4K streaming video is beautiful. The blending of CGI and live-action is mostly seamless. The high resolution of the 4K does seem more obvious that there are both CGI and live-action elements. Other than that, the physical sets and clothing offer high amounts of detail to take in. The physical locations, such as the beach, offer such fine details as the grains of the sand. And as we have come to expect from Disney, the color palette is outstanding. Another fine transfer from Disney.

Audio:

The Dolby Atmos track here is wonderful. It is full of moments of complete immersion such as the opening escape sequence and the surfing sequence. Such great use of all of the channels. Dialogue is crystal clear. The sounds of Stitch scurrying about sounds great from the rear channels. The Hawaiian ambient music and the environment sounds in the outdoor scenes are so vibrant in the rear channels. Another great track from Disney.

Bonus Features:

• Deleted Scenes:
• Nani Cleans Up
• My Name is Nani 
• ‘Ohana Means Family: Making Lilo & Stitch – Learn how an animated classic becomes an instant live-action favorite. Explore the challenges of bringing Stitch into the real world, how the familiar images of the original were recreated, and join returning cast members on a set that embodies ‘ohana.
• Drawn to Life – Check out scenes from the animated original film alongside their live-action counterparts to see how these beloved key moments were faithfully recreated. And uncover some easter eggs along the way!
• Bloopers – Take a look at some of the fun mishaps on set with the cast and crew of Lilo & Stitch.
• Scenes with Stitch – Hear Stitch talk about some of his favorite scenes as he watches the movie play.
• Escape To Earth
• Feeding Fish
• Hula Performance
• Stitch Gets Named
• Bath Time
• Watch This 

Conclusion:

Lilo & Stitch is a welcomed addition to your library with expanding the story and making it a true Lilo and Nani story. Light but enjoyable supplements and fine audio and video round off this digital release.

Lilo & Stitch is now available on digital, 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and DVD.

*The movie was sent by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the purpose of this review. The review is strictly my own opinion.*

4K Digital Review of Thunderbolts*

 

As Phase 5 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe comes to an end, Thunderbolts* gets the MCU back on track with a story of misfits who end up working together for a greater cause. These misfits include Yelena (Florence Pugh), her dad the Red Guardian (David Harbour), John Walker (Wyatt Russell) and Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen). They join forces with Bucky Barns (Sebastian Stan) and CIA Director Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus). Valentina, who is being investigated for her possible connection to a secret project, sets all of them up to gather them together to be eliminated. Bob (Lewsi Pullman) is the only successful part of this secret project and might be the key to stopping Valentina. 

The movie stands on its own as we make way for Phase 6. We get an impressive band of people who feel alone for different reasons and what they do to get through and not let the darkness win. We don't get the polished fight sequences. We get the fight sequences of those that have no superpowers, just the ability to punch and shoot. And at the end we get a tease of things to come in the future of the MCU. 

Video:

The 4K streaming video is wonderful. Colors are vibrant and details are razor sharp. Black levels are nice and inky. Another fine transfer from Disney and Marvel.

Audio:

The Dolby Atmos soundtrack is another solid effort from Disney and Marvel. The dialogue is crystal clear. The action sequences, especially those towards the end of the film, really engage the surround channels. Just another Marvel-ous listening experience. 

Bonus Features:

• Deleted Scenes – Check out the scenes that didn’t make the final cut.
  • Door is Unliftable
  • Gary Announcement

• Assembling a Team to Remember – Spend a bit of quality time with the cast and crew of Thunderbolts* as they divulge how the film’s fictional team of superpowered mavericks, misfits and antiheroes was assembled.

• Around the World and Back Again – Discover the eclectic locations and astounding production design that helped make Thunderbolts* a rousing reality, including a visit to the sprawling sets in Kuala Lumpur where we join Florence Pugh performing stunts atop one of planet Earth’s tallest buildings and blowing up buildings on the streets.

• All About Bob, Sentry & The Void – Deep dive into the making of three different characters: Bob, Sentry, and The Void – all performed by Lewis Pullman.

• Gag Reel – Enjoy fun outtakes on set with the cast and crew of Thunderbolts*

• Director’s Audio Commentary – Watch the film with audio commentary by director Jake Schreier.

Conclusion:

The MCU is back on track with Thunderbolts* as Phase 5 comes to a close. A powerful film on what it feels like to be alone and to not let the darkness win. Top tier video and audio along with decent supplements make this a welcome addition to your library.

Thunderbolts* is available on digital, Blu-ray and DVD. 

*The film was provided by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the purpose of this review. The review is strictly my opinion.*