Footloose 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

The newly released 4K UHD Blu-ray edition of "Footloose" marks a significant upgrade over previous home video releases, particularly the flawed 2011 Blu-ray. Paramount's 2160p/Dolby Vision presentation corrects many issues from earlier versions, notably the overuse of digital noise reduction (DNR), which previously rendered skin tones waxy and grain unnaturally static. In this release, the film's grain structure is appropriately managed, offering a more authentic cinematic experience that honors its 35mm photochemical origins. The improvement in grain stability ensures that while the image remains naturally soft, it offers a healthier and truer representation of textures and details.

The Dolby Vision grading offers more nuanced color management, though the film’s palette remains inherently muted. Core colors are more solidified and consistent, particularly in elements like clothing and natural greenery. Instances of deep blacks and stable white balance contribute to a more pleasing visual experience, despite occasional black crush in darker scenes. The image stability also means that even if the visuals don’t reach striking heights, they deliver a consistent look that respects the film's original aesthetic. Fans will appreciate the enhanced clarity and vibrant touches, notably in scenes like the Christmas lights at the 1:38:28 mark and the climactic dance sequence.

Though some aspects of clarity and sharpness vary due to the source material, this release is a considerable step up from its predecessors. The avoidance of DNR allows for a more film-like texture and is a welcome upgrade for enthusiasts disheartened by earlier disappointing releases. While not exemplary within the realm of UHD standards, this version of "Footloose" presents the film in its most visually faithful form to date, making it essential for fans seeking the definitive home viewing experience.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Footloose" features a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio presentation, a slight downgrade from the previous Blu-ray's 6.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track. Despite this, the differences are minimal in practical terms, as the clarity, spacing, and overall audio fidelity remain superb. The soundstage is extensive and encompassing, effectively utilizing the surround channels to immerse the listener in the dynamic musical soundtrack and score. Dialogue clarity from the center channel is impeccable, ensuring every line is heard cleanly and precisely.

The audio mix truly shines with its rich tonal quality and muscular bass presence, particularly during pop and rock track sequences, which exhibit excellent balance and clarity. This mix excels in creating an enveloping atmosphere, with crisp percussion and atmospheric ambiance seamlessly integrating into the background. While the volume can be turned up to enhance the experience, it remains consistently powerful and detailed even at moderate levels. Additional audio options include German, French, and Italian 2.0 Dolby Digital tracks, as well as Japanese mono in Dolby Digital. Subtitles are available in a wide range of languages, including English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, and Japanese, accommodating a broad audience.

Overall, the 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track maintains the high standards set by its predecessor, retaining its robustness and fidelity for a thoroughly engaging listening experience.

Paramount's 4K UHD Blu-ray SteelBook release of "Footloose" is a handsomely designed package that appeals to nostalgia with its Walkman-inspired design and '80s aesthetic. While the UHD disc lacks extras, the Blu-ray offers a solid collection of special features. These include two insightful audio commentaries—one by producer Craig Zadan and writer Dean Pitchford, and another by actor Kevin Bacon—both of which provide rich details about the film’s production and legacy. The set also includes a digital copy code, ensuring fans can enjoy "Footloose" in 4K digitally. This release effectively combines engaging commentary with nostalgic design elements to create a must-have for collectors.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Producer Craig Zadan and Writer Dean Pitchford.
• Audio Commentary: Actor Kevin Bacon.
• Let's Dance! Kevin Bacon on Footloose
• From Bomont to the Big Apple: An interview with Sarah Jessica Parker.
• Remembering Willard
• Kevin Bacon's Screen Test
• Kevin Bacon Costume Montage
• Footloose: A Modern Musical – Part 1
• Footloose: A Modern Musical – Part 2
• Footloose: Songs That Tell a Story
• Footloose Theatrical Trailer

Paramount's 4K UHD release of the iconic 1984 film "Footloose," directed by Herbert Ross and starring Kevin Bacon, offers a substantial visual and auditory upgrade that is long overdue. The film has made a notable transition to 2160p with Dolby Vision, enhancing its vibrant and rebellious storytelling. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 soundtrack accompanies Kevin Bacon’s portrayal of Ren McCormack, a big-city teen who relocates to the conservative town of Bomont, with impeccable clarity. The contrast in the high-definition imagery accentuates the dynamic performances and vividly showcases the cultural and generational clashes that form the crux of the film's narrative.

The essence of "Footloose" captures a quintessential dance against oppressive norms. Ren devises a plan to overturn the small-town ban on dance music after learning it was enacted due to a tragic accident that claimed the lives of local teens. His alliance with Ariel (Lori Singer), the free-spirited daughter of the stern Reverend Shaw Moore (John Lithgow), injects much-needed youthful exuberance into the story, while performances by Sarah Jessica Parker and Chris Penn add depth and camaraderie. The juxtaposition of Ren’s cosmopolitan attitude against Bomont's strict conservatism is meticulously handled, with memorable scenes and an energetic soundtrack, including Oscar-nominated tracks "Footloose" and "Let's Hear It for the Boy."

"Footloose" strikes a balance between light-hearted fun and serious undertones, underpinning its message with a narrative filled with youthful defiance and society’s resistance to change. The upgraded visual fidelity highlights the pastoral settings and intense character interactions, while the well-balanced audio mix enriches every musical and dramatic moment. The film remains an emblematic 80s classic, blending romance, rebellion, and resonating tunes, making this UHD edition a visually rich and emotionally engaging experience.

"Footloose" remains an entertaining emblem of 1980s cinema, distinguished not only by its memorable soundtrack but also by Kevin Bacon's striking performance as Ren. While the movie might seem overshadowed by contemporaries like "Dirty Dancing," "Footloose" achieves a unique standing with its enduring themes and crowd-pleasing narrative. The 4K UHD Blu-ray release by Paramount marks a significant upgrade from previous editions, particularly the problematic 2011 Blu-ray version. This new release delivers a much-needed visual overhaul with a 2160p/Dolby Vision presentation, effectively capturing the film’s original filmic essence without the excessive Digital Noise Reduction (DNR) seen before.

From an audio-visual standpoint, the 5.1 lossless soundtrack complements the picture's improved clarity, ensuring that both the iconic music and dialogue sound crisp and immersive. Though A/V purists might find some flaws, such as minor inconsistencies in image processing, this Ultra HD release is undoubtedly the best version available on disc formats to date. It includes a comprehensive set of legacy extras, providing valuable insights and context for both new audiences and longtime fans.

Conclusively, "Footloose" in its 4K release, stands out as a must-have for enthusiasts of the film and collectors of classic cinema. While not perfect, it far surpasses previous versions, making it a necessary upgrade for any fan’s library. Whether revisiting Ren’s rebellious dance moves or diving into the nostalgia of an iconic era, this edition ensures that "Footloose" remains vibrant and relevant for generations to come.