Tremors 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Arrow Video's release of "Tremors" on 4K UHD Blu-ray sets a new benchmark for the visual presentation of this cult classic. Shot using Arriflex cameras on 35mm film, Arrow's restoration involves a fresh 4K scan approved by director Ron Underwood and cinematographer Alexander Gruszynski. The transfer, presented in a native 3840 x 2160p resolution with a 1.85:1 aspect ratio, utilizes 10-bit video depth, HDR (including Dolby Vision and HDR10), and a Wide Colour Gamut, encoded via HEVC (H.265) codec. This meticulous process has resulted in an image that is crisper, cleaner, and retains the film's original aesthetic with a more natural color palette. The grain structure, notably more pronounced in low light scenes, does not detract but rather enhances the film's organic feel. Fine details are now vividly apparent in everything from the rugged desert terrain to the nuances in facial features and clothing textures.

The 4K edition notably surpasses previous releases, offering an unparalleled viewing experience that preserves the film’s nostalgic elements while embracing modern visual clarity. The Dolby Vision enhancement provides superb contrast and brightness levels, adding depth to the image and making colors pop without over-saturation. Finn Carter's red shirt and the Graboids' orange innards showcase the HDR’s impact on vibrancy against the dusty backdrop. Blacks are deeper and inkier, contributing to a more defined and dimensional picture. This release also corrects the color balance issues seen in older versions, with skin tones appearing more natural and less tanned, and the overall palette leaning towards a more earthy set of tones.

Arrow’s effort not only revitalizes "Tremors" for long-time fans but also ensures that it is seen in the best possible light by new audiences. The grain is managed well, retaining the film's textured look without descending into noise, even in challenging conditions such as dust or smoke. The attention to detail is evident, with even the minutiae of desert sand, rocks, and wooden textures being sharply defined. The overall presentation is stable and clean, devoid of any digital anomalies, ensuring that "Tremors" on 4K UHD Blu-ray isn't just an upgrade but the definitive way to experience the film’s unique blend of horror, humor, and heart in a visually stunning format.

The "Tremors" 4K UHD Blu-ray offers audio aficionados three meticulously restored listening options: the original theatrical DTS-HD MA 2.0 stereo, a DTS-HD MA 4.0 surround, and a remixed DTS-HD MA 5.1 surround sound track. Each variant caters to different preferences, ensuring comprehensive coverage, from the more compact yet impactful stereo option to the curious quad mix that intriguingly distributes dialogue and effects upfront, with music and ambiance enveloping from behind. Particularly, the 5.1 surround mix garners acclaim for its adept handling of spatial dynamics, allowing for an immersive environment where sounds such as the graboids' movements are palpably conveyed throughout the soundscape. The bass, while not overwhelming, significantly punctuates action scenes with sufficient depth and intensity, enhancing the overall auditory experience without straining or overshadowing other audio elements.

Dialogue across all tracks is consistently clear and well-defined, an essential factor considering the diverse sound design that oscillates between intense action sequences and quieter, dialogue-heavy moments. The score benefits from a newfound spaciousness in the multi-channel tracks, contributing to an engaging auditory experience that complements the visual spectacle of the film. Despite minor quibbles regarding the LFE's punch in the 5.1 mix and an isolated technical glitch with the audio codec on first play, these issues do little to detract from the overall quality of the audio presentation. Optional English subtitles are a thoughtful inclusion for accessibility.

Listeners will appreciate the absence of any analog artifacts such as hiss or crackle, indicative of the careful restoration process each track has undergone. Sound effects, especially those characterizing the movie's signature creatures, are vividly rendered, with movement and action sequences benefiting from a dynamic range that effectively utilizes the available channels for an enveloping experience. Whether opting for the detailed layering and ambience of the surround mixes or the more straightforward yet equally satisfying stereo track, audiences are ensured a meticulously crafted audio experience that enhances their viewing of this classic film.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Tremors" presents an impressive array of extras, blending archival content with a wealth of new material, making it a definitive collector’s piece for fans. Notably, the disc includes two enlightening audio commentaries; one with director Ron Underwood alongside writers/producers Brent Maddock & S.S. Wilson, the other with Jonathan Melville, offering fans a deep dive into the making and legacy of this cult classic. "Making Perfection," a newly produced documentary by Universal, stands out with its extensive interviews, revisiting pivotal locations and offering insights from key cast and crew members. Additional new interviews and featurettes cover various aspects such as the film's challenging cinematography ("Bad Vibrations"), innovative visual effects ("Digging in the Dirt"), and memorable score ("Music for Graboids"). With over 10.5 hours of bonus content, including extended interviews and a gag reel on a secondary disc, plus unique collectibles like posters, lobby cards, and a comprehensive booklet, this release is meticulously crafted to celebrate every facet of "Tremors," far surpassing previous editions in depth and quality.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary by Ron Underwood, Brent Maddock & S.S. Wilson: Insightful commentary from the film’s creative team.
• Audio Commentary by Jonathan Melville: A guide to the film from the perspective of a superfan.
• Making Perfection: A detailed documentary featuring new interviews and revisiting the production.
• The Truth About Tremors: Interview with co-producer Nancy Roberts revealing the film’s origins.
• Bad Vibrations: Director of photography Alexander Gruszynski discusses the challenges faced during filming.
• Aftershocks and Other Rumblings: Anecdotes from associate producer Ellen Collett.
• Digging in the Dirt: Exploration of the film's groundbreaking visual effects.
• Music for Graboids: The composers discuss creating the film’s score.
• The Making of Tremors: Archival documentary providing an overview of the film's creation.
• Creature Featurette: Behind-the-scenes on crafting the film’s monsters.
• Deleted Scenes: Additional scenes not included in the final cut.
• Pardon My French!: Compilation of TV version overdubs.
• Electronic Press Kit: Promotional content created for the film’s release.
• Trailer Gallery & Image Galleries: Collection of trailers and stills showcasing promotional material and behind-the-scenes photos.

Tremors, presented on 4K UHD Blu-ray by Arrow Video, encapsulates the essence of 90s horror-comedy with a refreshingly sharp remaster that elevates the original cinematic experience. The film, remembered fondly for its seamless blend of monster movie thrills, comedy, and a touch of horror, harks back to the monster flicks of the '50s, yet carves its own niche with distinctive wit and charismatic characterisation. The storyline's strength lies predominantly in its dynamic duo, Valentine McKee (Kevin Bacon) and Earl Bass (Fred Ward), whose down-to-earth charm and heroic antics amidst the chaos of subterranean monsters—affectionately termed Graboids—ensnare the audience’s affection. Their survival tactics against these unseen predators ingeniously weave through comedic and tense moments, underpinned by a script ripe with realism and clever dialogue. The direction by Ron Underwood, in his debut feature, showcases a keen ability to balance horror and comedy without sacrificing pace or cohesion.

The restoration boasts an immaculate presentation that brings Tremors's vibrant cast and innovative special effects to life with unprecedented clarity. This revitalization not only enhances its visual allure but also reaffirms the film's legacy in the pantheon of cult classics. Shot amid the picturesque yet isolating landscapes of California's deserts, Tremors triumphs in capturing the quintessential small-town America backdrop, complete with its eclectic residents ranging from handymen to survivalists and an earnest seismologist. This meticulous attention to detail, from character development to scenic composition, ensures each frame contributes to the overarching narrative—a testament to the craftsmen behind the camera and the special effects wizards Alec Gillis and Tom Woodruff Jr.

The packaging of this 4K UHD release mirrors the high quality of the movie's remaster, devoid of a 1080p version but compensated by an array of collectibles that enrich the viewing experience. Arrow Video's edition distinguishes itself with not just superior video quality but also a tangible celebration of Tremors's impact through posters, lobby cards, and an insightful 60-page book. Despite the absence of a 1080p Blu-ray or digital code, the richness of this release lies in its homage to both the film’s craftsmanship and its enduring appeal across generations—a definitive collection piece for aficionados and newcomers alike.

The 4K UHD Blu-Ray release of "Tremors" by Arrow Video is a testament to the enduring appeal and timeless quality of this 30-year-old film. Regarded as a comedy horror masterpiece, this set not only revives the film for old and new fans alike but also enhances the viewing experience with its technical prowess. The native 4K transfer preserves the movie's original grain structure while delivering a detailed, bright, and colorful image complemented by strong blacks. The accompanying DTS-HD MA 5.1 surround sound track is dynamic, well-separated, and boasts decent bass, ensuring the film's audio matches its visual upgrade. This release is further enriched by an extensive collection of extras, including newly recorded and archival material.

Arrow Video's presentation goes beyond just the film; it is an immersive experience that celebrates "Tremors" in its entirety. The set includes two discs housed in a standard black amaray case with double-sided artwork and several collector's items such as a two-sided poster featuring original and new artwork, lobby card reproductions, and a detailed 60-page insert booklet. This booklet offers insights into the cast and crew, essays on the film's impact, and information on the restoration process, enhancing the appreciation for the film and its legacy. The packaging itself is both aesthetically pleasing and sturdy, ensuring that this edition is as much a collectible as it is a vehicle for the film.

In conclusion, Arrow Video's 4K UHD release of "Tremors" represents the pinnacle of home video editions for film enthusiasts. It perfectly balances technical excellence with a treasure trove of supplementary material and collector's items. Though it may not include Arrow's 1080 presentation of the film, this release stands out for its commitment to quality and engagement with the film's fanbase. It is more than just a recommendation; it is a must-own for fans and cinephiles, reinforcing "Tremors" as a timeless piece of cinema that continues to entertain and inspire.