A League of Their Own 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review
Score: 87
from 7 reviewers
Review Date:
A League of Their Own shines in this 4K UHD release with stunning visuals, Dolby Atmos sound, and a heartfelt story, solidifying it as the best edition yet.
Disc Release Date
True 4K
HDR10
Dolby Vision
Dolby Atmos
DTS-HD MA
Dolby TrueHD
Video: 95
The 4K UHD Blu-ray of 'A League of Their Own' delivers an exceptional visual upgrade with sharp detail, rich and natural grain, and enhanced color grading, thanks to Dolby Vision HDR. Fine details like facial textures and uniform stitching stand out vividly, making this a superb improvement over previous Blu-ray releases.
Audio: 89
Enhanced with a Dolby Atmos mix, 'A League of Their Own' on 4K UHD delivers an immersive audio experience that broadens the soundstage, making use of ambient sounds and directional effects to create a convincing auditory environment. Vocals remain clear and centered, while Hans Zimmer’s score and crowd scenes see notable improvements in depth and dynamics.
Extra: 67
The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of 'A League of Their Own' impressively combines stunning visuals with a rich Dolby Atmos track, enhancing its timeless narrative. Extras ported from previous editions, including trailers, commentary, documentaries, and deleted scenes, provide a comprehensive retrospective experience, reaffirming it as a must-have edition.
Movie: 89
A League of Their Own's 4K UHD release enhances this beloved classic with Dolby Vision HDR, though it maintains the same content as prior editions, delivering an unchanged but still outstanding sports comedy-drama that is visually timeless, features stellar performances, and balances humor, heart, and historical charm.
Video: 95
The 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation of "A League of Their Own" impresses with its meticulous attention to preserving the film's unique WWII-era aesthetic. The native 4K transfer, derived from a 35mm scan, delivers stunning clarity and detail, with razor-sharp definition from facial textures to the intricate details of baseball uniforms. The natural film grain is organic and well-resolved, avoiding any aggressive layering or swarming artifacts.
The addition of Dolby Vision HDR enriches the color palette and contrast, enhancing primary colors and deepening black levels. Whites are impressively crisp and vibrant, adding a luminous quality to scenes, especially in daylight sequences. Reds, greens, and blues exhibit remarkable vibrancy, making the makeup and uniforms of the Peaches pop with lifelike splendor. Flesh tones appear natural and true to life, contributing to a more immersive viewing experience.
While the film retains some of its characteristic hazy spots and sepia tones, these quirks add to its charm rather than detracting from it. Overall, the 2160p image offers a significant upgrade over previous Blu-ray releases, providing a richly detailed and visually captivating experience that stands as one of Sony's finest 4K releases to date.
Audio: 89
The audio presentation of the 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "A League of Their Own" is a notable enhancement, featuring an engaging Dolby Atmos mix. This mix substantially broadens the soundstage by incorporating off-camera sounds and low-level ambience, effectively adding depth to the film's orchestrated elements. The design ensures that audio cues are minutely detailed and well-correlated with onscreen events without overshadowing the original essence of the soundtrack. Hans Zimmer's compelling score gains extra dimension, bleeding into the surrounds and top heights with excellent clarity and definition.
While the Dolby Atmos experience doesn't drastically redefine the film's sound profile, it brings appreciable improvements in several areas. The track shines during the final game sequence, where crowd roars, immersive directionality, and palpable ambiance create a convincing auditory atmosphere. Dialogue remains clear and intelligible, particularly Tom Hanks' distinct voice. Despite being front-heavy at times, the mix employs background sounds like birds and distant conversations to maintain a spacious, active soundscape, seamlessly panning effects within the listening space.
Additionally, Sony has included alternative audio tracks: DTS-HD MA 5.1 and 2.0 stereo. Both configurations deliver solid performance across various setups, although the Dolby Atmos track stands out for its immersive qualities and precise placement of effects. Moments such as a thunderstorm in an echo-rich gymnasium or Madonna's "This Used To Be My Playground" during the end credits benefit significantly from this well-rounded Atmos implementation. While bass dynamics are generally restrained, the low-end supports music and effects adequately. Overall, the upgrade enhances the film's auditory experience, making it a worthy addition for aficionados.
Extra: 67
The 4K UHD Blu-ray of "A League of Their Own" offers a solid array of extras that will appeal to both new viewers and longtime fans. Key features include insightful commentary from director Penny Marshall and actresses Lori Petty, Tracy Reiner, and Megan Cavanagh. The comprehensive "Nine Memorable Innings" documentary provides an in-depth look at the film's creation and legacy. Deleted scenes, including introductions by Marshall, offer additional context and background. The disc also includes three episodes from the 1993 TV series based on the film, enhancing the overall package. With Dolby Vision HDR, the visual presentation is enhanced beautifully, capturing every detail and color with impressive clarity.
Extras included in this disc:
- Feature Commentary: Insightful commentary with Penny Marshall and cast members.
- Nine Memorable Innings: A detailed documentary on the film’s creation.
- Deleted Scenes: Includes introductions by Penny Marshall.
- The Enduring Legacy of A League of Their Own: Retrospective feature.
- 3 Episodes from the 1993 TV series: Episodes "Dottie's Back," "Shortstop," and "Marathon."
- This Used to Be My Playground Music Video by Madonna: Iconic music video.
- Domestic Theatrical Trailer
- 5 International Teasers & Trailers
Movie: 89
"A League of Their Own" exemplifies an intriguing blend of comedy, sports drama, and historical context set during World War II. The movie begins with Walter Harvey (Garry Marshall) and Ira Lowenstein (David Strathairn) forming a women's baseball league to keep the sport alive as male players head to war. Featuring a rich cast led by Geena Davis as Dottie Hinson, Lori Petty as Kit Keller, Tom Hanks as the washed-up manager Jimmy Dugan, along with supporting roles by Madonna and Rosie O’Donnell, the film delves into the struggles and triumphs of the Rockford Peaches.
The movie portrays the intricacies of forming the league, focusing on character relationships and team dynamics. Key figures like Dottie and Kit navigate their sibling rivalry while adapting to a male-dominated sport. Meanwhile, Dugan's transformation from a self-destructive alcoholic to a dedicated mentor adds depth to the narrative. The screenplay, crafted by Lowell Ganz and Babaloo Mandel, elevates the film with humor and heartfelt moments. The authenticity of the period is captured through detailed performances and period accents, enhancing its historical fidelity.
Critical acclaim centers on the movie's successful integration of social commentary without relying on modern tropes. The camaraderie and warmth among the characters are palpable, making the audience root for them both on and off the field. Davis delivers a compelling performance that balances leadership with vulnerability, while Hanks provides both comic relief and dramatic gravitas. "A League of Their Own" remains a poignantly inspiring tale about perseverance, team spirit, and underdog victories. Despite its age, it continues to resonate with audiences, proving its status as a beloved classic.
Overall, "A League of Their Own" achieves an engaging narrative balance that encapsulates its historical setting and showcases character-driven storytelling at its finest. Rated PG for language, it combines family-friendly entertainment with poignant life lessons.
Total: 87
Sony's 4K UHD release of "A League of Their Own" marks a striking enhancement in both visual and auditory quality, solidifying its status as the definitive edition for fans of the film. The 1992 classic, brought to life under Penny Marshall's direction, shines more brightly than ever with a stunning 2.39:1 HEVC presentation and an impressive Dolby Vision upgrade. The detail, color accuracy, and contrast in this release surpass previous home media versions, making for an immersive viewing experience. Although similar to the one found in the Columbia Classics Collection Vol 1, this standalone release is a significant prize for those who missed the collection.
The audio performance is equally commendable, with a rich Dolby Atmos track that breathes new life into Hans Zimmer's memorable score, and other sound formats like DTS-HD MA 5.1 and 2.0 providing excellent alternatives. Dialogues are crisp, ambient sounds are well-detailed, and the overall audio experience is enveloping. However, criticisms arise from a lack of new supplementary material, with the extras limited to older trailers and features, which might disappoint those expecting more fresh content in this comprehensive package.
A League of Their Own remains an enduring cultural milestone, notable not only for its delightful narrative but also for its historical significance in highlighting women's contributions to America's favorite pastime. The film continues to evoke laughter and excitement, underscored by standout performances from Tom Hanks, Geena Davis, and others. Fans who have held off on purchasing prior editions or who seek the finest quality in their home collections will find this release highly satisfying.
Sony has always been a crowd pleaser with their 4K UHD releases and A League of Their Own is no exception to that rule. The 4K UHD disc is simply stunning on the technical front, and the movie itself is a gem that still warrants plenty of re-watches in my opinion. Highly recommended as a GREAT watch.
AV Nirvana review by Michael ScottRead review here
Video: 100
Colors are slightly warmer with a definite red push to everything, and there’s a few soft spots that are designed to look hazy on purpose from what I remember of the original DVD extras....
Audio: 90
Memorable Innings Documentary • Deleted Scenes • The Enduring Legacy of A League of Their Own • 3 Episodes from the 1993 TV series, "A League of Their Own" • "This Used to Be My Playground" Music Video...
Extras: 60
The story itself is sweet and kind, foregoing lots of the cloying “girl boss” tropes of today’s films, and instead focuses on what makes the women unique from the men, while still showcasing the fact that...
Movie: 90
They also needed entertainment to keep the spirits up, and America’s greatest sport was no longer on the table as a large majority of the players had turned in their baseball uniforms for military ones....
Total: 90
Directed by: Penny Marshall Written by: Kim Wilson, Kelly Candaele, Lowell Ganz Aspect Ratio: 2.39:1 HEVC Audio: English: Dolby Atmos (Dolby TrueHD 7.1 Core), English DTS-HD MA 5.1, English DTS-HD MA 2.0,...
Blu-ray.com review by Kenneth BrownRead review here
Video: 90
Detail is in excellent form as well, with clean, natural edge definition, precisely resolved fine textures, and only a hint of what might be perceived as crush (which strikes me as optical and a product...
Audio: 90
Otherwise, the Atmos mix and its Dolby TrueHD 7.1 core don't offer anything extraordinary, which shouldn't be taken as a negative in any way; rather a slight caution to adjust expectations....
Extras: 60
Anniversary re-release, including an audio commentary with director Penny Marshall and actresses Lori Petty, Tracy Reiner and Megan Cavanagh, an eleven-part production documentary called "Nine Memorable...
Movie: 90
Going on to say, "It's a movie about so much more than baseball, so yes, a few tears are permitted at the end, an end which beautifully frames the true purposes of the story, of remembering the good times,...
Total: 80
The film holds up wonderfully, the video presentation represents a solid step up from previous editions, the Dolby Atmos experience offers a welcome boost, and the extras... well, let's not talk about...
Blu-ray Authority review by Matt BrightonRead review here
Video: 90
I’d found the older transfer a bit dingy in spots and while not “bad” by any means, it just felt like it could use a bit of touching up....
Audio: 90
It sounds a tad bit dated, and I doubt this is a candidate for a new Atmos mix, but should please fans....
Extras: 70
This is the same commentary that has appeared on previous editions and while it’s billed as a “director and cast” track which includes Penny Marshall, Lori Petty, Megan Cavanagh, and Tracy Reiner; it’s...
Movie: 0
So a solution is needed, some method to maintain baseball’s place in peoples’ minds, without the need for the drafted players....
Total: 80
The technical specifications have been bumped with a new 4K image and Dolby Atmos sound, and while we’ve got a nice array of supplements, the missing feature from the 25th Anniversary is a bit of a head-scratcher....
High-Def DigestRead review here
Video: 100
On the other end of the spectrum, black levels are notably richer with luxurious-looking midnight shadows, giving the women's hair a realistic silky polish and providing the 2.39:1 image with a stunning...
Audio: 80
Meanwhile, imaging feels broad and spacious, continuously kept busy with a variety of background activity convincingly panning between the channels and into the off-screen space, such a people talking...
Extras: 60
4K Disc Trailers Blu-ray Disc Audio Commentary featuring Penny Marshall, Lori Petty, Tracy Reiner, and Megan Cavanagh A League of Their Own TV Series (HD): Three episodes from the six-episode series that...
Movie: 80
The full history of the league is obviously much more nuanced and complicated than what this film explores, but the heart and soul of the sport thrive....
Total: 80
Highlighting a nearly-forgotten period where women played the greatest game, the film is a glorious piece of work....
Home Theater Forum review by Todd ErwinRead review here
Video: 100
A League of Their Own was photographed on 35mm film using Panavision cameras and lenses, so this UHD release can be considered native 4K. Sony scanned the original camera negative in 4K for this release,...
Audio: 90
What the track does do is place you in the middle of the ballfield, with enveloping crowd effects and precisely placed effects that move seamlessly within the listening space....
Extras: 70
1993 TV Series Episodes (upscaled 1080i; 70:56): New to this release, three episodes from the short-lived series – Dottie’s Back, Shortstop and Marathon....
Movie: 90
Taking a cue from Rosie the Riveter and to boost morale at home, one of the team’s owners and candy bar magnate, Walter Harvey (Garry Marshall), decides to start a girl’s baseball league with teams located...
Total: 90
Other than Dolby Vision added to the 4K feature, there is nothing all that different from this new A League of Their Own standalone release and the one included with the first volume of the Columbia Classics...
AVSForum review by Ralph PottsRead review here
Video: 92
My Take: I reviewed A League of Their Own when it was initially released on Ultra HD Blu-ray as part of the Columbia Classics 4K Ultra HD Collection Vol. 1 back in 2020....
Audio: 88
The music is mixed over the sound field, adding natural depth to its orchestrated elements while complimenting the film’s thematic details....
Extras: 90
Disc 1: A League of Their Own 4K Blu-ray Disc 2: A League of Their Own Blu-ray 3 episodes from the 1993 TV series, “A League of Their Own” Feature Commentary with Director Penny Marshall and Actresses...
Movie: 90
My Take: I reviewed A League of Their Own when it was initially released on Ultra HD Blu-ray as part of the Columbia Classics 4K Ultra HD Collection Vol. 1 back in 2020....
Total: 90
Ralph Potts AVS Forum Blu-ray Reviews Reference Review System: JVC DLA-NZ7 4K Ultra High-Definition Laser Front Projector (Calibrated with Calman color calibration software and Portrait Displays C6 HDR2000...
Why So Blu?Read review here
Video: 100
Back in 2020, the disc didn’t have Dolby Vision, but to my eyes and comparing to that disc, this new standalone disc looks nearly identical....
Audio: 100
Surrounds carry more crowd sounds and not just in the stadiums, also in clubs, gyms, and even in charm school!Dialogue Reproduction: Front and center or in the surrounds, dialogue is excellent....
Extras: 60
Extras for A League of Their Own are all ported over from previous releases and are still generally good extras....
Movie: 100
Walter Harvey (Garry Marshall) (based on Phillip Wrigley) is the candy mogul who sees the idea of an all-women’s baseball league as not only a way to make the country money, but a way for sports fans to...
Total: 100
This is a definite must-buy for those who don’t own it yet, and by far the best the film has looked in all the years it’s been available on physical media....
Director: Penny Marshall
Actors: Tom Hanks, Geena Davis, Lori Petty
PlotIn 1943, as World War II rages on and threatens to shut down Major League Baseball due to the draft, a candy magnate and Chicago Cubs owner comes up with a plan to keep baseball alive: he creates a women's league. The All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL) is born, and scouts are sent across the country to recruit talented players. Sisters Dottie Hinson and Kit Keller, who work on a dairy farm in Oregon, catch the eye of a scout and are soon recruited for the league. Dottie's exceptional skills and Kit's fierce pitching quickly land them spots on the same team, the Rockford Peaches. However, Kit lives in her sister's shadow and grapples with fierce sibling rivalry.
As the newly formed league tries to gain a foothold in the public's consciousness, the Peaches and their teammates must not only play to win but also battle sexism, professional skepticism, and their own personal conflicts. The team's coach, a washed-up, alcoholic former ballplayer, is initially indifferent to the women's league and skeptical of its potential success. However, as the season progresses, he develops a grudging respect for the talent and determination of the players, even as he contends with his own personal demons. The women not only have to prove their worth on the diamond but also must adhere to strict rules of conduct and femininity, which chafes against their love of the game and individual identities.
Writers: Kim Wilson, Kelly Candaele, Lowell Ganz
Release Date: 01 Jul 1992
Runtime: 128 min
Rating: PG
Country: United States
Language: English