Color timing changes, frustrating fans who may feel they know the film better than the filmmakers. Resolution rises and falls with new technology and problematic compression.
And new releases of the same film keep on coming.
With Scream Factory’s new 4k, we may finally have hit an end point.
A new 4k image harvest.
From the original camera negative. The previous 4k from Lionsgate was from an IP.
Timed by the film’s DP, Dean Cundey.
Now with an upgraded Dolby Atmos track that sounds terrific, in addition to the original.
Bottom line, a modern classic horror film, that now looks akin to the projection of a newly minted 35mm print.
Grain structure, color, black levels, shadow detail and overall resolution are as superb as one might expect from a well shot 1979 negative, which is very good.
While those intrigued by the film, but not true fans may be happy with the prior 4k release (how many times have 4k discs been supplanted by new ones?), those who love the film will absolutely want to upgrade to the new release.
I seldom make this point, as usually upgrades are incremental. This one just looks terrific in all respects, and I’m a new fan of the Atmos – which must be selected from the list of audio tracks.
Once again, HDR and Dolby Vision have been delicately applied and play beautifully with projection equipment. It seems that the technology is finally maturing, along with those who twist the knobs.
Finally, I believe we can say that we have a Halloween for the ages.
Image – 5 (Dolby Vision)
Audio – 5 (Dolby Atmos)
Pass / Fail – Pass
Plays nicely with projectors – Absolutely
Makes use of and works well in 4k – 4.5
Very Highly Recommended
RAH
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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