Jaws 3-D 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

The 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation of Jaws 3-D is a mixed bag, plagued by numerous inconsistencies stemming from the film's original technology combined with modern AI enhancements. The ArriVision 3D process utilized in the original filming, notorious for its softer and grainier results, clashes with the AI algorithms used in this new 2160p transfer. This collision results in an image that teeters frustratingly between impressive detail and disappointing softness. Grain is highly variable, sometimes resolving nicely but often appearing chunky and intrusive. The high-point scenes stand in juxtaposition to shots where detail is shockingly lost, creating an uneven visual experience.

The anomalies do not stop at grain and detail; skin tones are drastically inconsistent, fluctuating between lifelike and jarringly off, at times resembling early attempts to colorize black-and-white films. Primary colors tend to be well-saturated in some scenes but washed out in others without any discernible pattern, impacting both interior and exterior shots as well as various framing distances. The film's effects shots, worsened by their original 3D intent, suffer under 4K scrutiny. In specific scenes, such as Quaid and Armstrong’s underwater journey, extra artifacts arise, making the realism even more questionable. While blacks are deeper and more robust, they occasionally swallow fine details whole.

Perhaps the most glaring issue lies in the AI-driven focus inconsistencies. There are scenes where background elements inexplicably sharpen and blur randomly, breaking the depth-of-field effect and creating visual dissonance. Instances such as the confrontational scene at 24:40 exhibit smeared faces against sharply defined backgrounds, making it evident that human error would have been far less pervasive. Though aspects like contrast and black levels have seen improvement, the digital removal of noise (and subsequent grain overlay) introduces a waxy, unnatural smoothness that detracts significantly from the viewing experience. This inconsistency is a detriment, particularly to trained eyes expecting a coherent upgrade.

The Dolby Atmos track for "Jaws 3-D" on the 4K UHD Blu-ray is a noteworthy enhancement over its predecessors. The audio presentation, although primarily front-focused, ensures the dialogue remains consistently clear and intelligible. Directionality is executed accurately, with sounds transitioning smoothly through the sound field. The bass, while not overpowering, effectively accentuates the tension during shark attacks, creating a menacing atmosphere in underwater sequences. Environmental sounds such as seagulls and crowds are incorporated judiciously through the surrounds, adding to the realism without overwhelming the listener.

Remastered exclusively for Atmos, the sound design offers subtle yet impactful moments that elevate the viewing experience. The score permeates the soundstage thoroughly, and low-end jolts during scenes of dread or jump scares are suitably emphasized. Underwater sequences are particularly notable, with liquid sounds panning seamlessly around the soundstage, enhancing immersion. While not as intricate or busy as modern Dolby Atmos tracks, this mix is a welcome improvement befitting the film's era. The absence of the original audio track might be disappointing for purists, but the enhanced experience offered by this Atmos remastering is undeniably impressive given the source material's age.

The 4K UHD Blu Ray release of "Jaws 3-D" lacks extensive supplementary material often expected in high-definition releases. The on-disc extras for the 4K UHD format are minimal, consisting only of the Theatrical Trailer. The accompanying 1080p disc includes the same trailer and offers a 3D version of the feature film. While the quality of the main feature is given due attention in this release, the scarcity of bonus content might disappoint fans eager for in-depth behind-the-scenes features or retrospective documentaries. The limited inclusion reflects a missed opportunity to capitalize on the film’s historical and technical significance in the realm of 3D cinema.

Extras included in this disc:

Theatrical Trailer: Brief promotional trailer for the film.

'Jaws 3-D' on 4K UHD brings home the 1983 sequel with a sense of nostalgic charm but remains undeniably constrained by its era's technical limitations. The film, starring Dennis Quaid, Bess Armstrong, Lea Thompson, and Lou Gossett Jr., attempts to deliver on intrigue and special effects but falls short. The underwater sequences, for instance, highlight the mechanical nature of the shark, revealing its inability to move forward fluidly and making the illusion less convincing. Despite the 3D effects meant to add depth and excitement, the compositing remains subpar by today's standards, unable to elevate it even to the level of its predecessor, 'Jaws 2.'

Technically, this release is a mixed bag. The 4K UHD disc offers a decent upgrade in visual clarity with the Dolby Atmos audio track adding a modern auditory dimension. However, the film's original flaws persist despite these enhancements. The cinematography, predominantly static during underwater scenes, further highlights the limitations of the era's special effects technology. While the new format brings improved dynamic range and sharper images, it paradoxically underscores the weaknesses in animation and special effects. Fans might appreciate these improvements solely for preservation purposes, yet they do little to improve the intrinsic viewing experience.

For fans and collectors, this edition carries additional value with its comprehensive bundle comprising a slipcover and a Digital Code for online redemption. Still, these packaging perks struggle to overcome the evident deficiencies in the film's core visual and technical presentation. Despite 'Jaws 3-D' failing to impress on a technical level, it remains a moderately enjoyable piece of cinematic history, more so for its camp value and as a relic of early 3D film attempts.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Jaws 3-D" has received mixed feedback, primarily due to its remastering process. While the Dolby Atmos track is noted as a substantial improvement, providing a more immersive auditory experience, the video quality is significantly lacking. The remastering effort appears to have been heavily dependent on AI, resulting in a picture that falls well short of expert standards. The deficiencies manifest in numerous scenes, exhibiting inconsistent sharpness and color grading that detracts from the overall viewing experience.

Despite the film's engaging cast, which includes notable performances by Dennis Quaid, Bess Armstrong, and Lou Gossett, Jr., the visual shortcomings overshadow their efforts. The 3D presentation remains the definitive way to view "Jaws 3-D", as it was originally intended, making the standard Blu-ray edition a more attractive option for those who prioritize visual fidelity. For dedicated fans of the franchise, this release may still hold some value, particularly if they have yet to add the film to their collections.

In conclusion, while "Jaws 3-D" stands as an entertaining sequel with its fair share of shark-induced thrills, the 4K UHD release does not do justice to the film. As a solid sequel, Jaws 3 4K + 3D deserved better than what it received here in its 4K debut. As entertaining as it is to see Quaid, Armstrong, and Thompson, not to mention Lou Gossett, Jr. deal with shark-induced mayhem, viewers will quickly become bothered and distracted by the results achieved here. While the cast is engaging and the Dolby Atmos track is a nice upgrade, neither can make up for the video deficiencies. This release is only recommended to those who have yet to add the film to their collections, although the previous Blu-ray release is a much less expensive option as the 3D presentation remains the best way to enjoy this film. Those simply looking for a 4K upgrade should either wait for a sale or hope for a better 4K release in the future and skip it.