RoboCop 2

The 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation of "RoboCop 2" from Scream Factory delivers an exceptional visual experience fortified with technical prowess and meticulous attention to detail. The use of a BD-100 disc encoded with a fresh 4K scan of the original camera negatives results in remarkable sharpness and clarity. Retaining a thin but very well-resolved grain structure, the HEVC H.265 encode ensures that details, particularly in various urban environments, shine through magnificently. From the pristine architectural features of Detroit's cityscape to the intricate design of RoboCop's armored suit, the level of detail is impressive. Minor imperfections and soft sequences, resulting from VFX and photographic styles, are minimal and do not detract from the overall visual fidelity.

Dolby Vision HDR elevates the visual presentation, accentuating the vibrancy of the film's color palette. RoboCop’s suit emerges as a focal point, now sporting a more striking blue with a subtle purple fringe, which is dazzling under different lighting conditions. Black levels are superbly rendered, offering deep, stygian blacks that enhance dimensionality. Similarly, HDR10 ensures consistent luminance across the frame, maintaining excellent shadow details and specular highlights. Explosions and vivid reds, such as those found in Nuke capsules, are represented with a rich saturation that avoids any overblown intensity. Skin tones appear lifelike with a natural warmth, enhancing the overall realism.

The Dolby Vision presentation averages a video bitrate of 85 Mbps with the HDR10 layer averaging 76496 kbps, underscoring the high-quality encoding process. On Blu-ray, it delivers a substantial bitrate of approximately 34004 kbps. Together, these elements contribute to one of the most visually satisfying transfers to date for "RoboCop 2," ensuring that fans can enjoy a truly cinematic experience at home, marked by cleanliness, vibrancy, and pinpoint specificity in detail.

The 4K UHD Blu-Ray release of "RoboCop 2" delivers a robust and versatile audio experience, featuring three noteworthy audio options: DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 Surround (3985 kbps, 24-bit), MGM's new DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Stereo mix (2085 kbps, 24-bit), and a re-encoded LaserDisc PCM Stereo track. The DTS-HD MA 5.1 Surround track stands out for its dynamic range and clear separation of channels, effectively creating an immersive and engaging soundstage. Background activity fluidly transitions across the surrounds, while Leonard Rosenman's score resonates warmly between the fronts and rears. However, it is also important to note that while impressive, the low-end effects such as explosions and RoboCop’s gunfire provide a somewhat limited rumble due to the track’s age.

The new MGM DTS-HD MA 2.0 Stereo mix offers exceptional detail and an enriched sound experience. Elevated bass and LFE performance in scenes like the machine gun fires and bazooka blasts display an appreciated depth in the front sound stage. This track also presents a pronounced fullness and warmth that effectively balances the mid-range frequencies without introducing notable issues. Contrarily, the LaserDisc PCM Stereo track, despite its age, remains commendable. It maintains high fidelity and accurate reverbs that enhance the atmosphere of scenes with singular clarity akin to Dolby SR, exemplifying moments like the high-range sounds of a semi truck’s arrival or robotic movements over gravel.

In conclusion, each audio option on this release of "RoboCop 2" provides a unique listening experience that caters to various preferences, from nostalgic clarity notable in the PCM track to the fuller and more detailed MGM stereo enhancement and the balanced surround presence of the DTS-HD 5.1 mix. All tracks guarantee a riveting auditory journey that complements the film's action-packed narrative.

The extras section of the 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "RoboCop 2" offers a comprehensive and engaging deep dive into the film's production and legacy. This release replicates all the bonus features from the 2017 Collector’s Edition, distributing the treasure trove of content across two discs. The 4K disc includes two insightful audio commentaries: one by CG supervisor and author Paul M. Sammon, providing a scene-specific, detailed recount of the film's production; and another by Gary Smart, Chris Griffiths, and Eastwood Allen from RoboDoc, sharing personal anecdotes and behind-the-scenes insights. The accompanying Blu-ray disc houses the remaining extras, ranging from featurettes on visual effects and prop fabrication to archival interviews and promotional materials. These extras not only highlight the technical challenges and creative solutions but also celebrate the film's impact and enduring appeal.

Extras included in this disc:

Audio Commentaries: Two insightful tracks, one by Paul M. Sammon and another by the makers of RoboDoc. Corporate Wars: Comprehensive retrospective with cast and crew interviews. Machine Parts: Detailed exploration of the film's visual effects. Robo-Fabricator: Interview with RoboCop armor fabricator James Belohovek. Adapting Frank Miller's RoboCop 2: Interview with comic book writer Steven Grant. OCP Declassified: Archival production and behind-the-scenes footage. Theatrical Trailer: Restored original trailer with music from Basil Poledouris. Teaser Trailers: Two original teaser trailers. TV Spots: Promotional TV spots including a drug prevention message from Peter Weller. Deleted Scenes Gallery: Descriptions and stills of omitted scenes. Behind-the-Scenes Gallery: Eight stills featuring cast and crew. Still Gallery: Slide show of around 108 images from production and promotional campaign.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "RoboCop 2," directed by Irvin Kershner, presents mixed results when analyzed from a filmic perspective. The sequel, while maintaining some of the core satirical and dystopian elements of Paul Verhoeven's original "RoboCop," falls short of reaching the same cinematic heights. Kershner, renowned for his work on "The Empire Strikes Back," tries to expand on the universe with new elements like the hyper-addictive drug Nuke and the omnipresent threats posed by OCP, a corporation on the verge of owning Detroit. The suburban foray into RoboCop’s lingering humanity, such as his creepy drive-by of his former home, feels artificially tacked-on and underdeveloped, detracting from the narrative.

"RoboCop 2" retains much of its original charm through satirical nods to 1980s fears and social issues, such as corporate overreach and the drug wars. The film balances high-octane action sequences with dark humor, where moments like the rocket launcher incident in a gun shop stand out. However, certain plot points seem forced and shallow; characters like Nancy Allen’s Anne Lewis are marginalized to mere background roles, existing only to fill obligatory plot devices. The depiction of a ruthless child villain commanding respect within a nihilistic gang exemplifies the script’s problematic attempts at gritty humanity. Meanwhile, Cain (Tom Noonan) as the antagonist provides an exaggerated yet entertaining foil, leading to a climactically humorous but awkward robot battle.

Overall, "RoboCop 2" fumbles with forced references and underutilized characters, yet it succeeds in providing a visually and thematically darker continuation of its predecessor’s universe. Its satirical portrayal of a crumbling society under corporate rule remains engaging despite its flaws. Although this sequel lacks the original’s depth and subtlety, it maintains an entertainingly chaotic energy that will appeal to fans of dystopian action films.

"RoboCop 2" on 4K UHD Blu-ray is a worthy successor to its iconic predecessor, offering a continuation of the dystopian narrative and robust character arcs established in the original. While it may lack the satirical depth that defined Paul Verhoeven's 1987 classic, Irvin Kershner's direction revitalizes familiar elements with spirited execution and compelling dynamism. The ensemble cast, including Peter Weller, Nancy Allen, Daniel O'Herlihy, and an impressive young Gabriel Damon as Hob, delivers performances that bolster the film's gritty allure. Though some plot deviations feel underdeveloped or unresolved, the sequel's primary villain, Robo 2, presents a more challenging adversary than ED-209, augmenting the film's tension.

Technically, this 4K Ultra HD release by Scream Factory offers a significant upgrade from previous Blu-ray editions. The new transfer from the original camera negative enhances the visual experience with stunning clarity and color through Dolby Vision HDR. Additionally, the stereo track originally found on the LaserDisc remains a highlight, complementing three excellent lossless audio tracks that elevate the film's already intense atmosphere. Though no new extras have been added, the retention of the 2017 bonus content provides comprehensive insights and enriches the viewing experience for long-time fans.

In conclusion, "RoboCop 2" on 4K UHD Blu-ray is a must-have for enthusiasts of the franchise, preserving the essence of the original while delivering a superior audiovisual package. The technical advancements alone justify this release, and fans will find much to appreciate in the continuity and performance quality. Highly recommended for any collector of cult classics.