Starman 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Starman, available as part of the Columbia Classics Vol 4 boxset, receives a meticulous 4K UHD restoration that redefines its visual excellence. Shot on 35mm film with Panavision Panaflex Gold cameras and Panavision C-Series and E-Series lenses, the new master is based on a 4K scan of the original camera negative, complemented by additional color correction and HDR grading performed by Roundabout Entertainment. The HEVC encoded 2160p image supports both Dolby Vision and HDR10, providing an unparalleled viewing experience. This is achieved through contrast that is beautifully dialed in, delivering deep blacks and remarkable shadow detail without crushing. Colors are vivid yet natural, lending the film an enhanced yet authentic palette that remains faithful to Carpenter and cinematographer Donald M. Morgan's vision.

Detail is markedly improved, highlighting crisp edges and finely resolved textures, particularly in close-ups where skin details are strikingly clear. The practical effects hold up beautifully in 4K, despite their seams being more visible compared to 1080p. The primary colors are notably vivid—Jeff Bridges' flannel dominates the screen with a lifelike vibrancy. Additionally, the encode demonstrates technical prowess with a consistent grain structure and a notable absence of banding and other anomalies. Despite the presentation appearing darker than previous 1080p transfers, it remains true to its cinematic roots and significantly enhances its atmospheric and visual depth.

Sony's careful restoration work cements this release as the definitive visual presentation of Starman. The film benefits from a high level of technical proficiency typically associated with Sony’s high standards, rivaling their 4K release of Christine. The anamorphic 2.39:1 aspect ratio is pristinely maintained throughout, offering a remarkable step-up from previous releases. This superb restoration not only pays homage to Morgan's distinctive cinematography but also ensures that Starman comes alive on modern displays like never before.

The Dolby Atmos track on the 4K UHD Blu-ray of Starman stands as an exemplary piece of work. From the very beginning, the low-end output is pronounced, providing substantial weight and intensity to the alien powers and government machinery depicted in the film. The surround channels are utilized to full effect, with directional effects that enhance the auditory experience, making helicopter chases and action sequences come alive. Dialogue is consistently clear and well-prioritized, and the iconic music perfectly complements the cinematic feel without overshadowing other elements. This immersive soundfield amplifies the high fantasy and sci-fi components of Starman, making it a standout auditory experience.

The primary audio options include English Dolby Atmos, 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio, and 2.0 DTS-HD Master Audio. Originally released in 70mm “Six-Channel” Dolby Stereo and matrixed 35mm Dolby Stereo, the current restoration does not provide specifics about the new Atmos mix. However, it is phenomenal, providing a richer depth and more vivid soundscape. Subtle reverb effects add immersion, particularly noticeable in ambient scenes like Mark Shermin’s entry into the space capsule or during conversations in spacious environments, effects absent in the 5.1 and 2.0 mixes. The enhanced bass, particularly evident during the spacecraft crash, and the dynamic score from Jack Nitzsche achieved greater presence and robustness, honoring Carpenter’s characteristic musical style.

The Atmos mix refines previous efforts without losing original sonic character, ensuring a seamless auditory experience. Sound effects are more precisely distributed across the soundstage, often employing overhead channels for a more dynamic range. The helicopters notably traverse through the overheads effectively. Such meticulous attention to detail enriches Starman’s narrative with a robust sonic underpinning that maintains its original essence while elevating it significantly with modern technology.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Starman" offers a comprehensive package of extras that significantly enhances the viewing experience. The inclusion of the complete TV series from 1986-87 is a noteworthy addition, presented in original broadcast quality, making it a nostalgic treat for fans. The audio commentary by John Carpenter and Jeff Bridges, sourced from earlier DVD releases, is insightful, delving into both technical details and personal anecdotes from the film's production. Notably, the disc boasts an array of deleted scenes, offering a glimpse into the excised content. Behind-the-scenes time-lapses provide a peek into the meticulous preparation for pivotal scenes. The set also includes various featurettes, a music video, and a stills gallery, all meticulously curated to offer a holistic understanding of the film's legacy.

Extras included in this disc:

• Starman: The Complete TV Series: All 22 episodes in 1080p.
• Audio Commentary: By John Carpenter and Jeff Bridges.
• Deleted Scenes: Twenty-one scenes, including "Sleeping Pills" and "Colorful Language".
• Behind-the-Scenes Time Lapses: "The Light at the Window" and "Pep Rally Prep".
• They Came From Hollywood!: Recollections from cast and crew.
• Making-Of Featurette: A vintage production insight video.
• Music Video: "All I Have to Do Is Dream."
• Stills Gallery
• Theatrical Trailer

John Carpenter's "Starman" represents a unique departure in his celebrated career, known predominantly for horror and action. This 1984 film showcases Carpenter's surprising versatility, transforming a simple, emotional road movie into an exploration of love, loss, and human connection. The story begins with an alien response to the Voyager II probe, which leads to the crash landing of its inhabitant in rural Wisconsin. The alien (Jeff Bridges), who takes on the form of the late husband of widow Jenny Hayden (Karen Allen), convinces her to aid him in reaching a rendezvous point in Arizona. Their journey is not unopposed, as SETI scientist Mark Shermin (Charles Martin Smith) and a determined military force seek to capture the extraterrestrial visitor.

Visually, "Starman" allows Carpenter to break from his signature dark and dystopian settings. He instead embraces the natural beauty of American landscapes, ranging from Wisconsin's verdant forests to Arizona's alien-like desert formations. This shift provides a vibrant canvas for a story rich in genuine emotion and character development. Jeff Bridges delivers an Academy Award-nominated performance as the alien learning human ways, marked by unique bird-like movements and endearing verbal quirks. Karen Allen's portrayal of a woman grappling with her grief while rediscovering life is equally compelling, creating a profound chemistry between the leads that underpins the film’s emotional core.

Supported by Jack Nitzsche's evocative score, Carpenter's direction remains fluid and visually striking, even as he navigates new genre territory. "Starman" balances emotional depth with moments of humor and adventure, culminating in a thrilling chase scene reminiscent of Coppola’s grandiose sequences in "Apocalypse Now." The film’s simplicity belies its profound impact, making "Starman" an emotionally uplifting experience grounded in real human pain and loss. The interplay between Bridges and Allen, along with Smith's charmingly inquisitive SETI scientist, drives home the film's exploration of what it means to live and love fully.

"Starman" on 4K UHD Blu-Ray is a masterclass in restoration and presentation that truly showcases John Carpenter’s often underappreciated 1984 sci-fi romance. The film itself, beautifully acted and emotionally resonant, garners new life through Sony’s meticulously crafted 4K transfer. The visual clarity and depth are remarkable, highlighting the film's nuanced cinematography and special effects. Additionally, the new Dolby Atmos soundtrack is both immersive and dynamically rich, offering a modern audio experience while preserving the option for original audio track enthusiasts.

This release is part of the Columbia Classics 4K Ultra HD Collection: Volume 4, and it stands out not only for its technical prowess but also for the extensive array of supplementary materials. The standout inclusion is the rarely seen Starman TV series from 1986-87, adding significant historical and entertainment value to the set. While some may lament minor omissions like the two minutes missing from the Still Gallery, the sheer volume of additional content—eighteen hours of extras—makes this a comprehensive package that far outweighs those small deficits.

Often overlooked in John Carpenter’s illustrious filmography, "Starman" is an absolute joy. Beautifully acted and crafted, it will be a hard heart that isn’t moved come its final emotional moments. And speaking of beautifully crafted, Sony have delivered a suitably stellar effort for this 4K release. The new transfer is outstanding, the new Atmos soundtrack a barnstormer (and still giving OG audio fans the choice to not listen to it) and the inclusion of the entire, long-forgotten TV series is the final confirmation of Sony’s absolute commitment to delivering the highest value possible for physical media fans. A quite brilliant release. "Starman" in 4K is currently only available within the Columbia Classics 4K Ultra HD Collection Vol 4 box set and is available now.