Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review
Score: 83
from 5 reviewers
Review Date:
Harry Potter 4K finale wows with visuals & sound; extras vary, series ends on high.
Disc Release Date
2K Upscale
HDR10
DTS:X
DTS-HD MA
Video: 74
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2's 4K UHD release, sourced from a 2K DI, enhances its dark, detailed aesthetic with HDR, achieving striking colors, deep blacks, and refined textures, preserving its cinematic vision with improved clarity.
Audio: 85
The DTS:X audio track of Deathly Hallows Part 2 enriches every scene with precise, immersive sound, from subtle effects to grand battles, complemented by a dynamic score.
Extra: 91
The Ultimate Edition of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 lacks UHD extras but offers a rich selection of features on Blu-ray, from in-depth cast interviews and behind-the-scenes looks to interactive movie experiences, preserving the magic for fans.
Movie: 89
Harry Potter's final battle is a thrilling, emotional journey, showcasing action, sacrifice, and the power of convictions.
Video: 74
The 4K UHD Blu-Ray presentation of "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2" showcases an impressive advancement from its 1080p predecessor, despite originating from a 2K digital intermediate. Through Warner Brothers' meticulous upscale to 3840 x 2160p resolution utilizing the HEVC (H.265) codec for HDR10, this release benefits from enhanced clarity, depth, and a broader color gamut that breathes new life into the concluding chapter of this beloved saga. The film, presented in a widescreen 2.40:1 aspect ratio, effectively utilizes 10-bit video depth, WCG, and HDR to elevate the visual experience significantly.
This improvement is most vividly observed in scenes that boast intricate detail and expanded color depth. From the textures of Dobby's grave and the windswept beach to the dynamic facial expressions captured in close-ups and the ethereal quality of magical battles, there’s a noticeable uplift in image quality. Skin tones appear more robust, black levels deepen without sacrificing detail, and colors pop with vigor, especially in sequences laden with magic where fiery oranges and deep reds strike with intensity. However, it's not just about the vibrant; subtler hues and shadows benefit from the nuanced gradation enabled by HDR, offering a richer visual tapestry that aligns more closely with the filmmakers' vision.
Digitally, the release is pristine, maintaining a good grain structure that respects the original filmic texture, barring minor noise in limited scenes. The darker, gloomy aesthetic of the movie is preserved yet enhanced by HDR’s ability to render deeper and more varied shades within its color palette. Wide shots reveal remarkable detail in both characters and environments, ensuring that even in heavily CGI-enacted scenes or those cloaked in shadow, the visual integrity remains uncompromised. Despite some haloing in high-motion CGI sequences, this 4K UHD presentation manages to distill the essence of "Deathly Hallows: Part 2" with a palpable sense of depth and realism unheard of in previous releases.
Audio: 85
This audio section of "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2" on 4K UHD Blu-ray showcases an outstanding DTS:X surround track that immerses viewers into the magical universe with unmatched clarity and dimensionality. The precision in effects placement within 3D space is exemplary, especially appreciated during high-adrenaline sequences such as the attack on Hogwarts, and the more nuanced soundscapes like the wind-swept beach and the bustling activity within Bellatrix's vault. The overhead channels are utilized to their fullest, creating an enveloping atmosphere that pulls the viewer right into the heart of the action. Dialogue remains crisp and wonderfully natural without ever being overshadowed by the dynamic range of the background score or effects, enhancing the overall viewing experience with its directive subtlety.
Alexandre Desplat's score for the film, characterized by its heavy use of brass, drums, strings, and choral notes, is seamlessly woven into the mix. It elevates the emotional gravity and tension of the scenes without overwhelming the dialogues or ambient noises, balanced by a deep, tight bass that lends significant impact to both the music and various sound effects. The soundtrack's transition from previous 5.1 channel mixes to the DTS:X/7.1 Master Audio surround mix represents a significant improvement, producing a broader and more correlated soundstage where even the subtlest of sound cues are clearly localized and integrated, enhancing the immersive experience.
Listeners with systems capable of decoding the DTS:X format will notably benefit from this mix's adaptive qualities, as it shines across varied speaker configurations, particularly noted in a 7.1.2 setup. The detailed sound localization—from spellcasting at overhead positions to the multifaceted clatter within Bellatrix's vault—provides a palpable sense of placement and movement. This attention to audio object placement and its effectiveness throughout envelops the audience in a richly textured soundscape, making "The Deathly Hallows: Part 2" not just a visual spectacle but an auditory triumph as well.
Extra: 91
The "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2" 4K UHD Blu-ray set provides a comprehensive collection of extras across its multiple discs, despite the peculiar decision to include no bonus features on the UHD disc itself. The heart of the special features resides in the Blu-ray edition, notably the detailed Maximum Movie Mode which offers an immersive in-movie experience with insights from the cast and crew, including Matthew Lewis and producer David Heyman. This is complemented by a variety of mini-documentaries covering everything from the making of key scenes to in-depth discussions among the cast about their decade-long journey through the Harry Potter series. Every aspect from deleted scenes to candid conversations between J.K. Rowling and Daniel Radcliffe, and the creative process behind iconic characters and sets, is covered, making this collection an essential addition for fans seeking to dive deeper into the wizarding world's final chapter.
Extras included in this disc:
- Maximum Movie Mode: Interactive experience with cast and crew insights.
- Focus Points: A collection of short documentaries on different aspects of the movie.
- Final Farewells from Cast/Crew: Emotional goodbyes from the series’ stars.
- A Conversation with J.K. Rowling and Daniel Radcliffe: An extensive discussion on the series.
- The Goblins of Gringotts: Behind-the-scenes look at goblin makeup and character evolution.
- The Women of Harry Potter: J.K. Rowling discusses her strong female characters.
- Behind the Magic: A deep dive into the film’s action sequences and effects.
- Hogwarts' Last Stand: Extended Version: Insights into the final battle's production.
- Deleted Scenes: Additional scenes cut from the final film.
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour London: Promo for the making-of tour.
- Pottermore Preview: Brief introduction to the digital wizarding world.
- Trailers: Promotional trailers for the film.
Movie: 89
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2, presented in 4K UHD Blu-ray, delivers an enthralling culmination of the globally cherished saga. The film commences with a palpable sense of urgency and high stakes, as Voldemort seizes Dumbledore's Elder Wand in a visually stunning sequence that sets the tone for the entire movie. Director David Yates demonstrates his adept handling of the narrative's pace and tension from the outset. As Harry, Ron, and Hermione embark on their perilous mission to destroy the remaining Horcruxes, their journey is fraught with challenges and revelations, notably through Hermione's ingenious use of Polyjuice Potion and the critical intervention by Aberforth Dumbledore at a crucial juncture. The film adeptly transitions from one setpiece to another, maintaining a brisk pace that accentuates its action-packed nature.
The technical mastery of the 4K UHD presentation enhances the cinematic experience, capturing the grandeur of battles and the intricacies of character emotions with equal finesse. The HDR enhancement adds depth to the visual palette, particularly in scenes of spell-induced chaos and the pivotal confrontation between Harry and Voldemort. Warner Brothers' decision to include a DTS:X audio mix elevates the auditory experience, ensuring that every spell and clash resonates with viewers. While the film takes creative liberties with its source material, it remains a faithful adaptation that respects J.K. Rowling's vision, especially in its portrayal of Snape's complex motivations—a testament to Alan Rickman's unforgettable performance.
As part of Warner Brothers' initiative to remaster the Harry Potter series for UHD, Deathly Hallows: Part 2 benefits from technological advancements in film presentation. Despite being an up-conversion from a 2K digital intermediate, the meticulous attention to detail in regrading for HDR and rescanning negatives where necessary pays off. The action sequences, notably the Battle of Hogwarts, are rendered with clarity and dynamism, making it a visual feast. The inclusion of both UHD and standard Blu-ray discs within the package provides fans with an array of viewing options, complete with Ultimate Editions content that enriches the overall appreciation of this cinematic milestone. This final chapter not only concludes Harry's journey with a remarkable sense of closure but also solidifies the Harry Potter franchise's legacy as a pioneering achievement in adapting fantasy literature for the silver screen.
Total: 83
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2, presented on 4K UHD as part of Warner Bros’ complete eight-disc set of the series, signifies a formidable upgrade over its Blu-ray counterpart, mostly due to the 2K upscaling. While this installment follows the precedent set by Part 1 in terms of minimal alterations to the color palette and brightness levels, it undoubtedly benefits from a noticeable enhancement in detail resolution. The inclusion of WCG (Wide Color Gamut) and HDR (High Dynamic Range) technologies further refines the viewing experience by deepening black levels and enriching desaturated colors. Additionally, the DTS:X audio track stands out, enveloping viewers with its profound bass and well-placed effects, arguably offering the most immersive auditory experience in the series. However, the release's lack of any added extras or supplementary content is a point of contention.
This release is a testament to the enduring allure and craftsmanship of the Harry Potter franchise, showcasing each film's contribution to a cohesive and captivating narrative arc when viewed consecutively—particularly evident in the final three installments. Despite the odd decision to omit bonus features, which could have enhanced fan engagement and collectability, this box set represents the definitive way to experience the magic and grandeur of the series. The UHD presentations, especially for the later films, ensure a recommended upgrade for enthusiasts seeking to own the pinnacle versions of these cinematic treasures, even as anticipation builds for potentially superior 4K scans of the series' earlier entries.
In conclusion, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 on 4K UHD Blu-ray delivers a compelling visual and auditory experience that both respects and elevates the source material. It wraps up an epic saga with high emotional stakes, breathtaking action, and cutting-edge visual effects, enhanced by top-notch video and audio upgrades. While the absence of new bonus content may disappoint some, the quality of this release—coupled with the richness it brings to home theaters—makes it highly recommended for fans and collectors alike. This package not only commemorates a significant chapter in film history but also sets a high bar for future releases within the franchise.
avforums review by Simon CrustRead review here
Video: 80
Black levels are wonderful; there is a new sense of depth to the frame with some strong shadow detail contained within when required....
Audio: 90
Alexandre Desplat’s quite astonishing score for this film makes liberal use of heavy brass, drums and strings while high choral notes advance the melody - it pitches the music at the right level to engross...
Extras: 80
There are no extras on the UHD disc, and this 8 disc set does not contain any Blu-rays with extra features – a somewhat peculiar commercial decision by Warner....
Movie: 90
Perhaps the best is reserved for Snape’s memories which reveal to Harry his true motivations for the past seven years in a scene both heart-warming and chilling, because to understand just what he has...
Total: 0
There is a decent flow between them all, making them part of the whole, and they work much better when viewed consecutively, particularly the final 3....
Blu-ray.com review by Michael ReubenRead review here
Video: 80
The colors, contrast and highlights of these bright early scenes remain largely unchanged with HDR, with the biggest benefits occurring later in the film, especially in the prolonged siege of Hogwarts...
Audio: 90
The noisemakers used by the goblins to distract the guardian dragon move fluidly and specifically through the listening space, both front and rear, following the progress of the goblins toward the vault,...
Extras: 100
The included pair of standard Blu-ray discs contains the same extras listed in the prior review of the "Ultimate Edition"....
Movie: 80
All four of the films in this first group�The Order of the Phoenix, The Half-Blood Prince and The Deathly Hallows: Part 1 and Part 2�were shot on film with post-production on digital intermediates at 2K....
Total: 90
Warner's release of Harry Potter on UHD is a welcome addition to the format, even with the limits on resolution that are inherent in the source....
High-Def Digest review by Bryan KlugerRead review here
Video: 80
The heavier CGI scenes look good as well, however there is some haloing in the bigger action scenes that make some of the bigger CGI effects look unnatural and fake even (that's one of the prices to pay...
Audio: 100
Extras: 90
Neville's Battle Makeup (HD, 4 Mins.) - Not just Neville, but you'll see most of the actors sitting in the makeup chair, getting bloody and bruised up for the final battle, along with some interviews with...
Movie: 100
It seems weird to say that in a summer filled with Green Lanterns, transforming robots, and superheroes that the best action movie of the year would come from the Harry Potter franchise....
Total: 90
The relationships, characters, and story all come full circle in what I'd call a masterpiece of high emotion, thrilling action, and state of the art visual effects....
AVSForum review by Ralph PottsRead review here
Video: 84
From a cinematic perspective, as with each of the HP films, Deathly Hallows Part 2 was shot with a specific visual aesthetic in mind, and that comes through in this presentation....
Audio: 90
This mix generates a correlated, and broad soundstage where effects swirl, shift and traverse the listening area....
Extras: 90
Disc 1: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc 2: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 Blu-ray Disc 3: Bonus Disc Maximum Movie Mode: Interactive in-movie experience hosted...
Movie: 90
After escaping to Hogsmead and learning the location of the next Horcrux Ron, Hermoine, and Harry find themselves where it all begin, Hogwarts....
Total: 89
It makes its Ultra HD Blu-ray debut in this Combo Pack from Warner Brothers Home Entertainment featuring solid Ultra HD video, excellent lossless surround sound, a complimentary DTS:X immersive sound mix,...
Why So Blu?Read review here
Video: 90
The other HDR moments come with spells being cast, skies, stained glass windows and then Bill Weasley’s home at the beginning is very nice and clothing colors pop a little more in that scene....
Audio: 100
Height: Some good overhead action used throughout, from ambiance and fun mineshaft cart sounds to battling at Hogrwarts, its utilized best it can be....
Extras: 100
A Look Back At Harry Potter’s Favorite Family (HD, 3:27), Dumbledore and Harry: A Look Back (HD, 3:23), Favorite Lines with the Harry Potter Cast (HD, 3:44), Favorite Props and Costumes with the Harry...
Movie: 90
The film continues what it first half began, in following the book to the number and delivering upon giving us the biggest action set pieces the series has seen, with the highest stakes and one last major...
Total: 90
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 is a wonderfully satisfying finale and sends the Harry Potter portion of this series out on a high note (For now…we know Cursed Child will come one day)....
Director: David Yates
Actors: Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint
PlotHarry, Ron, and Hermione continue their quest to defeat the dark wizard Voldemort by destroying his remaining horcruxes, magical objects that contain parts of his soul. Following a daring break-in at the wizarding bank Gringotts, they learn more about the three most powerful magical objects, the Deathly Hallows, and the potential they have to tip the balance in their favor. Evading capture and battling Death Eaters, the trio's journey grows more desperate as they uncover the full extent of Voldemort's plans for immortality and the destruction of the wizarding world.
As the final confrontation looms, the trio returns to Hogwarts, which is now under the control of Voldemort's forces. The school becomes a battleground as Harry and his friends rally the students and faculty to defend their home and the principles of good magic against the dark forces. The battle sees the return of familiar faces, some coming to aid in the fight, while others are tragically lost. The heroes are forced to make difficult choices in a climactic struggle that not only determines the fate of the magical world but also brings personal sacrifices and revelations that change their lives forever, leading up to a pivotal moment that has been prophesied since Harry's birth.
Writers: Steve Kloves, J.K. Rowling
Release Date: 15 Jul 2011
Runtime: 130 min
Rating: PG-13
Country: United Kingdom, United States
Language: English, Latin