Can't Stop the Music 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Can't Stop the Music" represents a marked improvement from previous versions, showcasing a clean and stable presentation derived from a 2018 4K scan of the original 35mm camera negative. Cinematographer Bill Butler's use of Panavision Panaflex cameras and anamorphic lenses is well preserved on this triple-layered BD-100 disc. StudioCanal's meticulous restoration efforts are evident in the consistent medium yield of well-attenuated grain, providing an authentic film-like texture. The video bitrate predominantly ranges between 80 and 100Mbps, delivering a detailed image with rich colors and deep blacks, though contrast could have benefited from High Dynamic Range (HDR) grading to further deepen the blacks and enhance color vibrancy.

Historically, "Can't Stop the Music" had a challenging journey in home video formats, with subpar VHS releases in the 80s until Anchor Bay's DVD in 2002 began improving its visual representation. Shout! Factory's 2019 Blu-ray release, utilizing the same master as this 4K edition, set a new precedent. Despite the bump in resolution to 4K, the absence of HDR may disappoint some enthusiasts, limiting the overall impact of this upgrade. Nevertheless, the disc offers faithful reproduction of period details, allowing aficionados to discern subtle elements like product placements and set decorations more clearly than ever before. While the intentionally muted aesthetic and soft-focus style inherent in Butler's cinematography remain unchanged, the enhanced clarity renders these artistic choices with greater fidelity.

Overall, the 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Can't Stop the Music" leverages its high-resolution scan to present the film in its cleanest form to date. Although HDR would have further improved contrast and color depth, the release still stands as a significant visual enhancement over prior editions, faithfully honoring the original cinematic experience orchestrated by Bill Butler.

The audio presentation on the 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Can't Stop the Music" offers robust fidelity with English 5.1 and 2.0 Stereo DTS-HD Master Audio tracks, accompanied by optional SDH subtitles. Reflecting its original release in both 4-track and 6-track Dolby Stereo, the audio tracks are not particularly impactful in terms of panning and placement, but they deliver a rich and expansive soundstage. The 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track provides a slightly enhanced low-end presence compared to the stereo option, which contributes to a fuller auditory experience. Throughout the film, the audio remains clear with only minor distortions noted in isolated instances.

The mix primarily delivers an engaging experience, albeit not heavily surround-centric. Surround channels serve a subtle role, contributing ambient sound and echo during musical numbers without detracting from the clarity of primary audio elements. Unlike some earlier releases, such as those on VHS featuring mono sound or DVDs attempting an expanded surround via DTS-ES, this iteration maintains dialogue panned primarily to the center channel with minimal leakage to the front left and right channels. While the mix doesn’t offer spectacular separation or spatial effects, it is a decided improvement over previous formats, elevating the listener's experience with its faithful reproduction of energetic musical elements.

The 4K UHD Blu Ray of "Can't Stop the Music" is rich with extras, enhancing the overall cinematic experience. The release includes two well-executed audio commentaries: one newly recorded by the late film critic/historian Lee Gambin with DJ Maynard, and another from 2019 by Jeffrey Schwarz and Bruce Vilanch. These tracks provide deep insights into the film's production and its cultural impact. Additional features are interviews with Village People’s Randy Jones, split into two parts, where he delves into his experiences both within the group and during the making of the film. Completing the package are vintage TV spots and a trailer, all upconverted to HD. These extras do a commendable job of putting the film in historical and cultural context, although some older bonus materials from previous Blu-Ray editions are not included.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary by Lee Gambin and DJ Maynard: Newly recorded, insightful track discussing the film.
• Audio Commentary by Jeffrey Schwarz and Bruce Vilanch: Historical commentary on production and screenplay.
• A Wink, A Wiggle, and a Wave: Randy Jones discusses his experiences with Village People.
• Can’t Stop the Cowboy: Extended interview with Randy Jones on making the film.
• TV Spots: Upconverted HD TV spots promoting the film.
• Trailer: Hilarious promo in upconverted HD.

The late 1970s and early 1980s had no shortage of disco musicals, many of which earned a fair share of criticism and mixed financial success. One of the most peculiar entries in this genre is 1980's "Can't Stop the Music," helmed by Nancy Walker, who made her directorial debut with this film. Featuring a fictionalized account of the creation of the iconic group The Village People, it blends a disco-fueled soundtrack with a comedic narrative that aims to evoke the grandeur of 1930s Hollywood musicals.

The story revolves around aspiring songwriter Jack Morell (Steve Guttenberg), who is convinced that his tracks will top the charts. He shares an apartment in New York’s Greenwich Village with Samantha (Valerie Perrine), a former model who acts as his de-facto manager. The plot thickens as Samantha schmoozes her way through the city's music scene, leveraging her connections—including Ronald White (Caitlyn Jenner, credited under her former name Bruce)—to cobble together the now-famous ensemble. Each character embodies a specific stereotype, from the Policeman to the Construction Worker, and they unite to form the Village People.

Despite its optimistic energy and kitschy charm, the film faces significant setbacks. It arrived just as the disco craze was on the decline, resulting in a critical and commercial failure. Yet, for aficionados of offbeat cinema, "Can't Stop the Music" offers ample entertainment value with its outlandish musical numbers and enthusiastic performances. Highlights include renditions of "YMCA" staged with extensive split-screen effects by Ron Hays. A notable lapse occurs with a 25-minute segment devoid of any musical numbers, detracting from the overall pacing. Nevertheless, the film’s joyous embrace of its own absurdity ensures it remains a fascinating artifact from an era when disco seemed poised to last forever.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Can't Stop the Music" delivers a visually and sonically engaging presentation for fans of this cult classic. The new transfer largely benefits from the higher resolution, offering improved clarity and detail, though it falls short in a few areas. Notably, the disc lacks HDR enhancement, which would have significantly boosted its visual appeal. However, the existing 4K transfer still provides a slight upgrade over previous editions, with better definition and color fidelity, especially in well-lit scenes.

Audio-wise, the new release doesn't disappoint, featuring a robust DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix. This audio track revitalizes the film's iconic disco soundtrack, ensuring an immersive experience that captures the lively spirit of the era. Dialogue remains clear and well-balanced against the music, giving viewers an enjoyable auditory experience. However, it's essential to note that some users pointed out minor inconsistencies in audio levels during quieter moments.

The supplementary features are modest but serviceable, maintaining most of the materials from earlier releases. Missing, however, are three image galleries present in the Shout! Factory Blu-ray and a karaoke mode found in some Region 2 DVD releases. Fans might find these omissions slightly disappointing. Additionally, the absence of the one-hour TV special, "Magic Night," remains unresolved due to likely rights issues.

Overall, this 4K UHD edition of "Can't Stop the Music" is a worthwhile addition for collectors and disco-era enthusiasts. While it represents a modest upgrade from previous editions, its value might not justify a double-dip for those who already own the Shout! Factory Blu-ray. Nonetheless, its improved visuals and excellent audio mix make it a recommended purchase for those looking to experience this vibrant musical in near top-notch quality.