1 review for True Lies (1994)

1. 

   Rated 3 out of 5

   John Anderson – March 24, 2024

   “True Lies” 4K Blu-ray provides an intriguing mix of high-quality video and audio enhancements alongside a nostalgic return to a classic action-comedy. The Ultimate Collector’s Edition brings James Cameron’s vibrant and action-packed 1994 film into the modern era with a native 4K (2160p) resolution, leveraging HEVC / H.265 encoding to deliver a crisp and detailed picture that far surpasses its original release quality. The inclusion of HDR, specifically Dolby Vision and HDR10, enriches the visual experience with deeper blacks, brighter highlights, and a more vivid color palette, which is particularly noticeable in scenes with the bright red sports car and the vibrant Florida Keys climax.

   Audio-wise, the 4K UHD disc doesn’t disappoint, featuring an immersive Dolby Atmos track that enhances the film’s dynamic action sequences and Brad Fiedel’s pulsating score. The mix offers clear dialogue and a robust use of the surround and Atmos channels, providing a thoroughly engaging auditory experience that complements the film’s visual upgrades.

   However, the 4K presentation isn’t without its drawbacks. The push towards a “more modern, digital look” might not sit well with purists who prefer the grain and texture of the original film presentation. Some may find the reduced grain and potentially “processed” appearance detracts from the film’s cinematic feel, though this is balanced by the incredible detail and clarity that the 4K resolution provides.

   On the extras front, the package is somewhat light, especially on the 4K disc itself, which lacks any bonus features. The included 1080p Blu-ray disc compensates to some degree with a retrospective featurette that includes interviews with key cast and crew members, providing insight into the making of the film. Additionally, the package offers various archival materials like scripts, storyboards, and marketing assets, which will appeal to fans interested in the film’s production process.

   Overall, the “True Lies” 4K Blu-ray offers a mixed bag that leans positively for those prioritizing video and audio quality. The leap to 4K and the inclusion of HDR and Dolby Atmos make for a compelling viewing experience that showcases the film’s action-packed sequences and comedic moments in the best possible light. While the lack of extensive extras and the modernized video presentation might not meet every fan’s expectations, the overall package presents a worthwhile upgrade for enthusiasts of the film and collectors alike.