The Lion of the Desert 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

This latest 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "The Lion of the Desert" undeniably sets a new benchmark in the film's home video presentation, far surpassing the previous releases in every conceivable way. The transition from the problematic Starz/Anchor Bay Blu-ray, with its incorrect aspect ratio of 1.78:1 to the film's original and intended 2.39:1, alongside an upgrade from 1080i to 1080p for the Blu-ray and 2160p for the UHD, marks a significant improvement. This restoration, executed with meticulous care at Deluxe UK and color correction by Silver Salt Restoration, revitalizes the film in a manner that could only be described as transformative, demonstrating a commitment to preserving the film's cinematic essence.

The remastered Blu-ray itself is a revelation, offering a vastly enhanced image quality over its predecessor. This version restores the film’s proper framing, allowing for a wide, immersive experience complemented by a filmic presentation that boasts fine detail and rich color reproduction. The image’s subtle grain and sharpness bring out remarkable detail in costumes, landscapes, and facial expressions, presenting a significant leap forward from the previous release. The UHD version elevates this experience even further, with its grain structure appearing more natural and consistent, and details across the board being strikingly clearer, enhancing the film’s visual narrative with a deeper sense of realism.

Moreover, the UHD version benefits substantially from Dolby Vision color grading, which intensifies depth and vitality across the color spectrum. This leads to more robust colors, improved contrast without sacrificing tonal authenticity, and significantly more lifelike depictions of the film's varied environments. Despite minor issues with black levels occasionally hinting at crush, the improvements in white levels, skin tones, and particularly the vividness of explosions and skies present an image of unparalleled quality. This release not only underscores the historical significance of "The Lion of the Desert" but also offers a case study in how technology can be leveraged to bring new life to classic cinema.

Shout! Factory's release of "Lion of the Desert" on 4K UHD Blu-ray features DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and 2.0 lossless audio tracks, offering a compelling auditory experience that significantly enhances the film’s epic scope and intense action sequences. The 5.1 track excels in delivering a full stage engagement, especially in action scenes where the use of surrounds is both extensive and natural, providing a vivid soundscape where planes soar, tanks advance with authority, and explosions resonate with impact. The mix manages to capture the environmental details with high fidelity, despite its age, ensuring that both the score and ambient sounds envelop the listener effectively. Dialogue remains crystal clear and is anchored at the front center, maintaining intelligibility even amid the most chaotic scenes.

The 2.0 track, while inherently more limited in spatial delineation compared to its 5.1 counterpart, surprises with its robustness and ability to convey a sense of depth and engagement. Action elements retain their weight, showcasing impressive front side spacing and a palpable sense of presence. Although the dialogue in this mix occasionally strays from a perfectly centered image, it largely remains clear and well positioned within the soundstage. Both Arabic and English audio tracks exhibit similar dynamic qualities, ensuring a consistent experience regardless of language preference.

Originally released in Dolby Stereo, "Lion of the Desert" was adapted into these high-definition formats without substantially altering the original's mix essence. While advancements in technology have led to some improvements in channel separation and clarity, particularly with the 5.1 track, both audio renditions stay true to the early Eighties production style. Maurice Jarre’s score is given due prominence across both tracks, enhancing the film's emotional and dramatic weight. While the surround channels are primarily employed for ambiance and occasional directional effects, such as planes flying past, they contribute effectively to the overall auditory landscape, albeit with modest bass presence in explosions.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "The Lion of the Desert" offers a comprehensive suite of extras across its included discs, markedly enhancing the viewing experience with fresh content and making it a significant upgrade from the prior featureless Starz/Anchor Bay edition. Noteworthy is the inclusion of both an English and Arabic version of the film on separate Blu-ray discs, each accompanied by a unique set of extras tailored to its audience. The highlight is the audio commentary by Producer/Director Moustapha Akkad, available in both languages. Although the commentary has its flaws, including sparse pacing and a somewhat dry delivery, its historical significance cannot be overstated, particularly in light of Akkad's untimely demise. The restoration process is meticulously detailed in a brief yet informative featurette, alongside an in-depth making-of documentary that provides valuable insight into the film's production, setting, and authenticity. This edition does not include a digital copy or slipcover but stands out for its robust content and dedication to preserving the film's legacy.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Producer/Director Moustapha Akkad discusses the film in both English and Arabic.
• Restoring Lion of the Desert: Insight into the film's restoration process.
• The Making of Lion of the Desert: A comprehensive look at the film's historical context, casting, locations, and production.
• Original Theatrical Trailer & Re-Release Trailer: High-definition trailers for the film.
• TV Spot: A short promotional piece in high definition.
• The Making of Omar Mukhtar (Arabic): An alternate making-of documentary narrated in Arabic.
• Original Theatrical Trailer (Arabic): The film's trailer with Arabic narration.

Shout! Factory's release of the 1980 masterpiece "Lion of the Desert" on 4K UHD Blu-ray marks a significant improvement over its previous 2013 Blu-ray edition by Starz/Anchor Bay. This enhanced version showcases the film in stunning 2160p/Dolby Vision video quality, accompanied by both 5.1 and 2.0 lossless soundtracks. Notably, this edition also introduces extras that are new to Blu-ray and includes a third disc featuring the Arabic language version of the film, enriching the viewing experience for a wider audience. The technical upgrade from the earlier release is monumental, providing a viewing experience that leaps and bounds beyond its predecessor, ensuring that both the visual and auditory elements of the film are presented with the highest fidelity.

Set against the backdrop of Italy's expansionist ambitions in North Africa during 1929, "Lion of the Desert" recounts the story of Omar Mukhtar (portrayed by Anthony Quinn), a schoolteacher turned leader of the Libyan rebellion against Italian colonization under Benito Mussolini's regime (Rod Steiger). Director Moustapha Akkad presents a narrative that diverges from the typical colonial adventure by focusing on Mukhtar as a Libyan national hero rather than an external figure leading the resistance. The film delves into the brutal conflict between Mukhtar's guerrilla forces and the Italian military, commanded by the merciless General Graziani (Oliver Reed), showcasing a relentless struggle for independence peppered with moments of profound courage and devastating atrocity.

"Lion of the Desert" stands out as a remarkable cinematic work, offering a compelling portrayal of historical events through the lens of those who lived them. The 4K UHD release not only brings this epic tale to life with unparalleled clarity but also serves as a tribute to the legacy of Moustapha Akkad as a filmmaker. This version of the film, with its upgraded visuals, sound, and additional content, ensures that new audiences and long-time fans can experience one of cinema's most poignant stories about the fight for freedom against colonial oppression with fresh eyes.

Shout! Factory's 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "The Lion of the Desert" has surpassed expectations, presenting an incredible leap in quality that sets a new standard for home video releases. The remarkable restoration effort is immediately noticeable, offering a flawless visual experience that honors the film’s original aspect ratio of 2.35:1, a detail that enthusiasts have long awaited. The color grading elevates the visual narrative to unprecedented heights, revealing the depth and vibrancy of the desert landscapes and intricate costumes with striking clarity. This edition not only respects the artistic intentions of director Moustapha Akkad and cinematographer Jack Hildyard but arguably exceeds them, providing an experience that is likely as close as possible to their original vision.

Audio-wise, the release impresses with both 5.1 and 2.0 audio tracks, delivering an auditory experience that complements the visual splendor. The inclusion of the Arabic language version adds authentic value, enriching the viewing experience by offering an alternative that enhances the film's cultural and historical authenticity. Furthermore, the supplementary materials included are thoughtful and enriching, providing fans and new viewers alike with a comprehensive understanding of the film's production, impact, and legacy.

In conclusion, this 4K Ultra HD release of "The Lion of the Desert" by Shout! Factory is not just a triumph in restoration; it's a testament to the technological advancements in film preservation and presentation. It redefines what fans can expect from high-definition home entertainment, marrying the film's historical significance with cutting-edge audiovisual quality. Highly recommended for both aficionados of cinema history and newcomers to Akkad’s masterpiece, this release ensures that "The Lion of the Desert" will be appreciated in its full glory for years to come.