Clue

Released by Shout Factory as part of their Shout Select line, the 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Clue" marks a significant upgrade over previous home video editions, sourced from a new 2023 4K scan of the original camera negative. This release ensures an authentic delivery in the film's original theatrical aspect ratio of 1.85:1 widescreen, utilizing HEVC / H.265 encoding on a BD-100 disc. The restoration process embraces both HDR10 and Dolby Vision high dynamic range standards, enriching the visual experience without straying from the film’s inherently cinematic quality. While "Clue" has never been heralded as a visually striking film destined to showcase the 4K format's prowess, this latest iteration impressively refines image details - from clothing textures to facial features - while maintaining the film's characteristic grain, ensuring a presentation that is faithful yet clearly superior to its predecessors.

The application of Dolby Vision HDR subtly elevates the film's visual narrative, bringing out finer details and a more vivid color palette that enhance the ambiance without imposing an unnatural gloss over the production's originally intended aesthetic. Skin tones are rendered more naturally, shedding the overly "ashy" appearance seen in prior releases, and black levels are notably deepened, adding a newfound clarity to darker scenes which previously tended to muddle details. The improvement in three-dimensional depth adds to the engagement, particularly in scenes crowded with characters or displaying intricate set designs. Despite minor issues such as faint audio remnants and slight skips, these do not detract from the overall viewing experience.

This presentation of "Clue" on 4K UHD Blu-ray might not represent a monumental leap in visual fidelity compared to other films treated to the format, but it stands as a commendable enhancement, making it the definitive version for fans. The careful preservation of the film’s grain structure and the judicious application of HDR bring about a presentation that is not only cleaner and sharper but one that respects and elevates the original aesthetic of this cult classic. Given its technical execution and attention to detail in the transfer process, this release will undoubtedly satisfy longtime admirers and possibly attract new ones with its enriched but authentic representation of the film's visual charm.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Clue" delivers an auditory experience with its English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono track, presented in a 24-bit lossless encode that ensures a crisp and enjoyable listening session. This track maintains the charm of the original audio design, prioritizing clarity in dialogue and a seamless integration of John Morris' iconic score. Despite being a mono presentation, the audio is rich and encompassing, effectively utilizing the dynamic range to highlight sound effects—from the atmospheric thunderclaps and breaking glass to the subtler sounds of footsteps and whispers. The soundtrack's fidelity to the source material is commendable, offering a full-bodied experience that, while lacking the immersive quality of a modern surround sound setup, does not detract from the overall enjoyment.

Some minor issues are noticeable, such as a brief instance of digital noise at specific timestamps and more apparent Automated Dialogue Replacement (ADR) due to the upgraded visual presentation. However, these are minor when considering the overall quality of the audio track. The soundtrack does a remarkable job of balancing the film's distinct mix of horror, mystery, and comedy through its music and sound effects. The inclusion of optional English SDH subtitles also enhances accessibility, ensuring that all viewers can fully appreciate the witty dialogues and nuanced sound design.

In essence, the DTS-HD MA 2.0 mono track on this release may not provide the enveloping effect of multi-channel surround sound systems but stands as a testament to effective audio mixing and restoration. It captures the essence of "Clue's" auditory experience, delivering clear dialogue, effective sound cues for humor and suspense, and a well-preserved musical score that remains as engaging as ever. This track is a solid effort that respects the film's original auditory aesthetic while offering a polished listening experience for contemporary audiences.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Clue" offers a meticulously crafted selection of extras that significantly enhance the viewing experience for fans and newcomers alike. Highlighting new interviews with key figures behind the film, including writer-director Jonathan Lynn and associate producer Jeffrey Chernov, these bonus features delve deep into the creative process, production challenges, and musical score that underscored this cult classic. A notable feature is the choice between viewing the film with the trilogy ending or a random selection, adding a unique twist to repeat viewings. Despite some limitations in the breadth of material—missing deleted scenes, a cut fourth ending, and behind-the-scenes footages—the provided content, produced by Ballyhoo Motion Pictures, offers invaluable insights. However, it's recommended to explore additional sources like ETR Media’s fan-made documentary for a more comprehensive understanding and appreciation of "Clue's" rich legacy.

Extras included in this disc:

• The Perfect Motive: Directing Clue: An exclusive interview with writer-director Jonathan Lynn.
• Scene of the Crime: Producing Clue: An exclusive interview with associate producer Jeffrey Chernov.
• Not Just a Game: Scoring Clue: An exclusive interview with film music historian Daniel Schweiger.
• Original Trailer: The film’s original trailer in high definition.

"Clue," the 1985 dark comedy and murder-mystery film, originally faced a lukewarm reception at the box office due, in part, to a marketing gimmick that featured three different endings. However, this adaptation of the Parker Brothers' board game has since cultivated a significant cult following, cherished for its smart blend of humor and intrigue. Directed by Jonathan Lynn, who co-developed the story idea with John Landis, "Clue" thrives on its stellar ensemble cast and a script rife with comedic jabs, underpinned by the nostalgia of its board game origins. With Tim Curry’s portrayal of Wadsworth leading an array of superb performances, the film encapsulates the essence of the game through its narrative and character dynamics, balancing suspense with laughs in a sprawling New England mansion setting.

The technical facets of "Clue" contribute greatly to its lasting appeal. The production design by John Robert Lloyd ingeniously constructs a cinematic space that nods to both theatrical stages and the familiar rooms of the board game. Michael Kaplan's costume designs further enhance the period setting, coupling with Victor J. Kemper’s cinematography to envelop the film in a dark, yet whimsically comedic atmosphere. This is complemented by John Morris’s score, which playfully underscores the film’s eccentricities, and the adept editing which manages to sustain pacing while neatly tying together the multiple endings—a feature that once was a theatrical gimmick but has become a celebrated aspect of its home video presentation.

Over the years, "Clue" has transcended its initial box office performance to become a beloved classic. The creative decision to include three alternate endings on home video versions not only aligns perfectly with the unpredictable nature of the board game but also serves as a testament to the film's ingenious adaptation into a medium far removed from its tabletop origins. Its blend of stellar performances, thoughtful design, and a script that smartly navigates its source material’s essence makes "Clue" a must-watch, embodying the rare success of transitioning a game to film while maintaining a loyal fan base intrigued by its charm and wit.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Clue" revitalizes this dark-comedy mystery classic, presenting an optimum viewing experience for dedicated fans and newcomers alike. With a strong video enhancement, the upgrade from prior Blu-ray editions proves subtle yet significantly sharper, especially when it comes to clarity and the utilization of high-dynamic-range enhancements. Although the HDR might not be as pronounced as in some other releases, it adds a refined depth to the film’s vibrant palette. The ensemble cast, led by the incomparable Tim Curry, reinvigorates the beloved board game with a dynamic performance that remains entertaining through repeated viewings. The addition of new and exclusive bonus content by Shout Factory, including intriguing interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, further enriches this release.

Despite some anticipation for more extensive extras, the included materials are satisfactory, with the notable inclusion of a somewhat lackluster amateur documentary "Who Done It: The Clue Documentary." While this may fall short of some expectations, the primary allure of this 4K UHD release lies in its enhanced visual and audio presentation, not necessarily groundbreaking supplementary features. Fortunately, for purists and collectors, there is enough novelty in the release to warrant investment, complementing any home video collection with its superior aesthetic qualities. The passion for "Clue" as a cinematic piece is evident through its continued appreciation and the willingness of fans to invest in its latest format iteration, despite owning previous versions.

In conclusion, "Clue" on 4K UHD Blu-ray stands as a commendable upgrade for enthusiasts of the film, marrying a visually striking presentation with sufficient, albeit predictable, bonus features. While it may not dazzle with groundbreaking extras or the boldest HDR application, it conclusively offers the best version of this cult classic for home viewing. With its charming reproduction of the film's visual and comedic intricacies, this release is a must-have for fans seeking the quintessential viewing experience. Recommended for both its nostalgic value and the incremental enhancements that honor the film’s legacy.