It 4K Blu-ray Review
By Stephen Hornbrook on
Audio Quality
Video Quality
Overall
Summary
In the town of Derry seven children are being terrorized by a mysterious, shape-shifting clown who calls himself Pennywise. Bill’s younger brother Georgie goes missing and Bill is convinced he isn’t dead and insists on continuing the search. His friends start experiencing visions of their fears brought to life as Pennywise preys off their fears.
Movie Review
It is based on a 1986 novel by horror master, Stephen King. There was previously a mini-series created of the same name. Now director Andy Muschietti brings the story back to life in this chapter one of a planned two. I enjoyed this adventure even with its demented terrifying clown. Who actually likes clowns anyway? Bill Skarsgård (son of Stellan, brother of Alexander) does a great job creating the evil, beyond creepy Pennywise. The kids deliver performances on par with great kid movies of the 80’s like The Goonies and E.T. It is intense and gory at times, but there’s enough to it that It appeals to a wider audience. Even if horror isn’t your thing, it’s worth checking out.
Technical Review
It was shot digitally on Arri Alexa and mastered with a 2K digital intermediate. The only real upside to the UHD disc is the HDR as the Blu-ray also includes the same Dolby Atmos soundtrack. The HDR comes through with a punch during those dark scenes when flashlights shine on screen. It’s a good image with excellent detail for a 2K source. The Dolby Atmos soundtrack is excellent, really bringing you into the suspenseful action. Benjamin Wallfisch’s score is quite beautiful, given such an ugly topic.
Special Features
(Special Features are limited to the standard Blu-ray disc)
- Pennywise Lives!
- The Losers Club
- Author of Fear
- Deleted Scenes
Pros
Excellent movie for the horror genre. Good use of HDR and solid Dolby Atmos soundtrack.
Cons
4K resolution doesn’t benefit from the 2K source. Pennywise is creepy as hell.
Summary
It is about as good as a horror movie gets in my book. Enjoyable cast and a fun ride.
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