Planes, Trains & Automobiles

Planes, Trains & Automobiles makes its journey onto 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray with a mixed bag in terms of video presentation, presenting itself in a 3840x2160/24p BT.2020 image utilizing Dolby Vision, HDR10, and Wide Colour Gamut, yet it doesn't escape criticism. While it promises enhancements over its previous Blu-ray release, notably in framing corrected to its original theatrical aspect ratio of widescreen 1.85:1 and improved colorization, the remastering process proves to be a double-edged sword. Paramount's approach to digital noise reduction (DNR) has led to a variability in image quality—while there are instances of commendable sharpness and detail, especially in scenes with adequate lighting revealing fine textures in clothing and interiors, an overarching smoothness and lack of filmic grain detract from what could have been a pristine representation of the film's original texture.

The application of Dolby Vision HDR does bring some benefits, adding depth and enhancing primaries which breathe life into the film's visuals, making colors more vibrant, notably the distinct blue of Candy's coat against the somber tones of Martin's attire. However, the inconsistency in grain management and occasional crush in darker scenes compromise the overall fidelity. Scenes that should showcase black levels and shadow details sometimes meld into obscurity, failing to uplift the film's iconic visual moments fully. It appears that while efforts were made to rejuvenate this beloved classic for the 4K era, the results fall short of expectations set by Paramount's notable successes with other titles.

Overall, Planes, Trains & Automobiles' leap to 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray is a perplexing affair. The remaster occasionally shines—brighter colors and certain detailed shots display what could have been a stellar upgrade. However, the handling of film grain and inconsistent sharpness across various scenes reveal a missed opportunity to truly honor the film's legacy. As such, fans may find the 4K presentation an improvement over previous releases despite pitfalls in visual clarity and texture, but it’s clear that this transfer could have benefited from a more refined and faithful restoration process.

The audio presentation of "Planes, Trains & Automobiles" in its 4K UHD Blu-ray release retains the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track familiar to fans from previous versions. Despite the absence of a modern Dolby Atmos remix, this soundtrack delivers a solid auditory experience, accurately reflecting the film's original sound design. The lack of an Atmos upgrade might seem disappointing for those seeking a definitive audio-visual upgrade, yet the DTS-HD MA track efficiently supports the film's dialogue, music, and effects. Reports of issues similar to those encountered in other releases, such as channel reversals, should make prospective buyers cautious. The integration of Ira Newborn’s score is particularly praised, enhancing key scenes without overwhelming them, while the overall mix maintains clear and dynamic audio fidelity despite not pushing the boundaries of what modern home theater systems can offer.

The soundtrack's presentation benefits from the high resolution of lossless sound, offering a nuanced and dynamic experience. The dialogue-driven narrative is complemented by a careful balance of music and ambient sounds that are cleanly reproduced, free from distortion. While the front soundstage may feel narrow at times, strategic moments open up with a more immersive use, engaging the listener more effectively. The subtle use of rear channels and bass levels adds depth to the audio landscape without relying heavily on active surround sound or deep low frequencies, crafting an enriching backdrop for the film's comedic and emotional moments.

Although the mix is predominantly front/center heavy, strategic activation of side and rear speakers occurs when appropriate, enhancing scenes with environmental ambiance or adding texture to bustling settings like airports. This careful placement ensures that dialogue remains clear and central, while Ira Newborn’s score is given ample space to shine. Activating DTS Neural:X can further enhance this track, offering a slightly more expansive soundstage in busier scenes without artificially manipulating the original sound design. Paramount’s decision to stick with the existing audio blueprint, rather than artificially inflate it for surround sound theatrics, respects the film's sonic integrity and provides an audio experience that, while may seem conservative, faithfully represents the film's auditory essence.

Paramount's UK 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Planes, Trains & Automobiles" demonstrates a commendable effort in the extras department, cleverly dividing content between two discs. The 4K UHD disc retains all the legacy documentary and featurette-based extras, which are notably substantial and engaging for enthusiasts. These include significant segments like "Getting There is Half the Fun: The Story of Planes, Trains, and Automobiles" and tributes to John Hughes and John Candy, essential for understanding the film’s creation and impact. Meanwhile, the special features Blu-ray disc unveils an hour and twenty minutes of freshly unearthed deleted and extended scenes found in Hughes's archive, alongside audition footage — materials that, despite their less polished state, offer fans a deeper dive into the film’s comedic essence and character dynamics. This bifurcated approach not only enriches the viewing experience with a blend of historical insights and newfound content but also respects the legacy of the classic comedy by providing a comprehensive look at its behind-the-scenes world.

Extras included in this disc:

• Getting There is Half the Fun: The Story of Planes, Trains, and Automobiles: An in-depth exploration of the film's journey from concept to screen.
• John Hughes: Life Moves Pretty Fast: A detailed documentary on John Hughes's influence in cinema.
• John Hughes for Adults: A look at Hughes's works aimed at an older audience.
• A Tribute to John Candy: Celebrating the life and career of the beloved actor.
• Deleted and Extended Scenes: A collection of scenes that were cut from the final film, offering more content for fans.
• Audition - Dylan Baker Owen: Audition footage showcasing Dylan Baker's initial portrayal of Owen.

John Hughes’ "Planes, Trains & Automobiles" stands out as a seminal holiday film that transcends its comedy roots to touch on heartfelt human connections amidst chaotic travel misadventures. Released on 4K UHD Blu-Ray by Paramount, the film has been given a new lease of life with a stunning 2160p/Dolby Vision transfer that breathes fresh depth into this classic. Although the audio specs haven’t seen an upgrade, the visual enhancement alone makes this release a compelling upgrade for fans and newcomers alike. The film, marking Hughes' departure from teen-centric narratives, showcases stellar performances by Steve Martin and John Candy, embarking on a farcical yet profoundly personal journey across America to reach home in time for Thanksgiving. Their unlikely partnership, fraught with comedic turmoil and touching moments, reveals the strength of human connections against the odds of holiday travel chaos.

Martin's role as Neal Page provides a meticulously crafted juxtaposition to Candy's Del Griffith, highlighting a blend of aggravation and empathy that propels the film beyond mere slapstick comedy. Hughes ingeniously interweaves comedy with a potent emotional undercurrent, bolstered by Ira Newborn’s evocative score, giving the film its timeless appeal. This UHD presentation pays fitting tribute to these performances and the film’s narrative depth, ensuring that every nuance, from the physical comedy to the subtler moments of introspection, is vividly captured.

The movie's technical presentation on this format exemplifies the careful balancing act between preserving the original's charm and embracing modern technological enhancements. Despite the absence of new audio features, the visual uplift substantiates "Planes, Trains & Automobiles" as not only a pivotal work in Hughes' oeuvre but also as a canonical piece in the landscape of American holiday cinema, underscored by its exploration of friendship, perseverance, and the universal desire to connect with loved ones. This release reaffirms the film’s cultural significance while offering a pristine viewing experience that accentuates its enduring legacy.

John Hughes's "Planes, Trains & Automobiles" marks a significant milestone with its 35th anniversary, celebrated through its 4K Ultra HD release, a move that has been met with mixed feelings among enthusiasts. While the film itself remains an undisputed classic in the comedy genre showcasing the impeccable talents of Steve Martin and John Candy, its transition to 4K UHD has unfortunately not done justice to its legacy. Paramount’s effort in revamping this beloved movie for the modern age includes over an hour of previously unreleased footage, likely aimed at die-hard fans and collectors. However, those expecting a visual feast might find themselves underwhelmed. The transfer suffers from an over-processed look with noticeable Digital Noise Reduction (DNR), resulting in a video quality that lacks the original filmic texture and depth. Despite these shortcomings, enhancements in color grading without severe edge enhancement offer some visual improvements over previous releases.

The audio aspect remains unchanged, sticking with the 5.1 lossless sound that does not offer any significant upgrade to match the expected UHD standards. Issues such as reversed audio channels further mar the overall home cinema experience. Even with the inclusion of new and legacy bonus materials, such as Dylan Baker's hilarious audition tape and 75 minutes of deleted scenes, the package feels lacking, especially for those prioritizing video quality in their collection. The anticipation for a substantial upgrade was palpable, making the reality of what is presented feel like a missed opportunity to fully celebrate the film's enduring charm and wit on a format capable of delivering an exceptional viewing experience.

In conclusion, while "Planes, Trains & Automobiles" remains a timeless journey through holiday chaos and an exploration of unexpected friendships, its first 4K UHD outing is akin to a bumpy ride rather than a smooth transition into high definition brilliance. Despite the addition of previously unseen footage and a somewhat improved color palette, the technical execution leaves much to be desired. Paramount's release, though a step in the right direction for showcasing this classic in a new light, may only appeal to completists and hardcore fans. For those seeking the pinnacle of home cinema presentation, it may be prudent to wait for a release that fully honors the film’s visual and audio potential.