And there may be purists that line up with burning torches when they see the new 4k UHD release of James Cameron’s Aliens, which was released way back in 1986, beautifully shot on film by Adrian Biddle.
Original prints were on the grainy side, as a higher speed stock was used. I always thought it looked fine, as that was the look. No problem. But there were those who felt that it was too grainy.
Enter the new 4k UHD from Disney via Fox, and it has an entirely new look.
And it’s a look that I like.
Very much!
The image has been de-grained, with zero loss of resolution, which if anything as been slightly heightened. Color are meticulously reproduced. And there’s an overall clarity that is new to the film.
The audio has been upgraded to Dolby Atmos, and much akin to the original 70mm mix, it’s huge and proscenium filling.
Make no mistake. This is not to be compared with other 4k releases that may have had some work done, and lost their soul in the mix.
Aliens to an absolutely gorgeous affair that should please every cinephile.
Technology does work on occasion.
I should note that both versions of the film are included in 4k, along with special features on a second disc. Both versions are also on another disc in HD.
Image – 10 (HDR)
Audio – 10 (Dolby Atmos)
Pass / Fail – Pass
Plays nicely with projectors – Yes
Makes use of and works well in 4k – 8
Upgrade from Blu-ray – Without a doubt!
Worth your attention – 10
Slipcover rating – 4
Very Highly Recommended
RAH
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Robert has been known in the film industry for his unmatched skill and passion in film preservation. Growing up around photography, his first home theater experience began at age ten with 16mm. Years later he was running 35 and 70mm at home.
His restoration projects have breathed new life into classic films like Lawrence of Arabia, Vertigo, My Fair Lady, Spartacus, and The Godfather series. Beyond his restoration work, he has also shared his expertise through publications, contributing to the academic discourse on film restoration. The Academy Film Archive houses the Robert A. Harris Collection, a testament to his significant contributions to film preservation.
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