Description

### **Murder by Decree (1979) – 4K Ultra HD Edition**

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### **Technical Specifications:**

– **Video:**
– Codec: HEVC / H.265
– Resolution: Native 4K (2160p)
– Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1 (Original Aspect Ratio)
– Source: Original camera negative, newly restored in 4K (No Dolby Vision or HDR)

– **Audio:**
– English: DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Mono (48kHz, 24-bit)
– English: DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 (48kHz, 24-bit)

– **Subtitles:**
– English SDH

– **Discs:**
– 4K Ultra HD (BD-100)

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### **Synopsis:**
In *Murder by Decree* (1979), Sherlock Holmes (Christopher Plummer) and Dr. Watson (James Mason) are drawn into the dark and dangerous world of Jack the Ripper, who is terrorizing London’s East End. Their investigation leads them into a web of political corruption, royal scandal, and a secret society with sinister motives. As Holmes uncovers chilling connections between the murders and the British government, he must race against time to save Annie Crook and her friend Mary Kelly before they become the next victims. Featuring a stellar cast including Donald Sutherland, Geneviève Bujold, John Gielgud, and David Hemmings, this suspenseful thriller combines historical fact and detective fiction to deliver a gripping and atmospheric mystery.

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### **Special Features and Extras:**
– **Audio Commentaries:**
– Archival commentary featuring the film’s production team
– New commentary by film historians discussing the historical context and filmmaking process

– **Featurettes:**
– *Sherlock Holmes Meets Jack the Ripper* – A look at the blending of historical events with fictional detective work
– *Behind the Fog: Filming Murder by Decree* – Interviews with cast and crew
– *Victorian London: Fact and Fiction* – Exploring the setting and time period of the film

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### **Performance and Quality:**

**Video Quality (4/5):**
– This 4K restoration provides a healthier, more detailed image compared to previous releases, with improved color saturation, balance, and density levels. While grain correction has caused some anomalies, particularly in darker scenes, the overall image is sharper and more refined, making this the best presentation of the film to date.

**Audio Quality (4.5/5):**
– The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track expands the soundstage effectively, capturing the moody and atmospheric score while delivering clear dialogue and immersive sound effects. The original 2.0 Mono track is also included for purists, preserving the film’s original audio experience.

**Special Features (3.5/5):**
– With insightful commentaries, engaging featurettes, and archival material, this release offers a solid selection of bonus content that enhances the viewing experience.

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### **Overall Score: 4/5**
*Murder by Decree* delivers a compelling blend of historical intrigue and classic detective storytelling. With its atmospheric cinematography, strong performances, and suspenseful plot, this 4K Ultra HD release from Kino Lorber is a must-have for fans of Sherlock Holmes and period thrillers alike. The restoration offers noticeable improvements in both video and audio quality, despite minor imperfections, and the bonus features provide valuable insights into the film’s production and historical context. Highly recommended.