RoboCop 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "RoboCop" by Shout Factory presents a noticeable upgrade over the previous Blu-ray edition, thanks to a new 4K remaster from the original digital intermediate. This HEVC H.265 encode enhances the viewing experience with finely detailed textures on faces, clothing, and RoboCop's armored suit. The added resolution allows viewers to appreciate the intricate design elements, such as the fibrousness in costumes and clear computer information on screens. Exterior shots gain depth and clarity, showcasing the cityscape and war zones with robust detail. Although medium shots can appear slightly softer, they still hold their own against the older Blu-ray version. The transfer remains pristine throughout, faithfully serving the film.

Color grading in this UHD presentation is markedly improved. Rich, warm flesh tones dominate, though they cool down in certain scenes, maintaining a consistent heat overall. Colors are bold and stable, with crisp whites and vibrant specular highlights, particularly enhancing science scenes and explosions. RoboCop's red visor light and the metallic sheen of his suit are rendered with vivid radiance.

Black levels are deep and precise, although they occasionally flirt with losing shadow detail, yet they manage to preserve depth admirably. Contrast is well-balanced, providing crisp, radiant whites that heighten action scenes. The Dolby Vision HDR further accentuates the dynamic range, delivering brilliant highlights and natural facial complexions across the cast. Minor issues such as mild aliasing and faint aberrations are present but do not detract significantly from the overall quality. This remastered edition stands as a solid upgrade for fans seeking enhanced definition and an enriched visual experience.

The 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio mix of the 4K UHD Blu-ray for "RoboCop" delivers an immersive, active listening experience. Machine movements and explosive actions are effectively emphasized with substantial low-end rumble, providing a robust auditory impact. Dialogue remains consistently crisp and clear, even during intense action sequences, with the robotic sounds of RoboCop preserved meticulously. Surround channels adeptly capture musical atmospherics and ambient office or training events, ensuring dynamic support for dramatic sequences. Panning effects are precise, particularly notable during drone and robot movements.

This DTS-HD track is well-suited to the strong video transfer, ensuring a synchronized audio-visual experience devoid of issues. Vocals are perfectly clean and problem-free, maintaining their clarity even amidst high-octane sequences. The track utilizes all channels proficiently, keeping the rears consistently active and engaged. Gunfire and explosions resonate with punchy depth and excellent directionality, with debris fields and shattering glass filling the soundstage comprehensively.

While this DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 soundtrack mirrors the previous Blu-ray release, it remains an exemplary mix. The broad and expansive imaging creates a thoroughly immersive soundfield, with various effects effortlessly moving across the front channels. The midrange is dynamic and clean, with detailed clarity that pervades the room effectively. Rear channel activity is particularly satisfying during action-packed scenes, offering exceptional directionality and flawless panning. Even during quieter, character-driven moments, subtle ambient effects contribute to the overall depth of the soundfield. The robust low-end adds weighty impact to scenes, particularly when Murphy battles drones or fires his iconic gun, offering gratifying and thrilling couch-shaking effects. Overall, this lossless mix significantly enhances enjoyment of the 80s classic remake.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "RoboCop" offers a plethora of insightful extras, carried over from the previous Blu-ray edition, catering to both enthusiasts and newcomers. The extras encompass a series of interviews and featurettes that delve into various aspects of the film's production, from its thematic core to technical achievements. Highlights include detailed examinations of costume design, weapons training, and the refreshing approach to updating the classic 1987 original. Notably, "The RoboCop Suit: Form and Function" provides a comprehensive look at creating a modernized suit while balancing homage to the original. Additionally, deleted scenes and faux OmniCorp commercials add contextual layers to the narrative. Overall, these supplements enrich the viewing experience by offering substantial behind-the-scenes insights.

Extras included in this disc:

• The Illusion of Free Will: A New Vision: Explores themes and technology used in the film.
• To Serve and Protect: RoboCop's Weapons: Discusses pre-production training and weapon design.
• The RoboCop Suit: Form and Function: In-depth look at the suit's construction and artistic efforts.
• Deleted Scenes: Adds narrative layers and character development.
• OmniCorp Product Announcements: Faux commercials for RoboCop technology.
• Theatrical Trailer #1
• Theatrical Trailer #2

The 2014 remake of "RoboCop," directed by José Padilha, seeks to revitalize the cult classic with a modern-day dystopian edge. Unlike Paul Verhoeven's original, this version tones down the gore and cheeky satire, opting instead for a more introspective examination of technology, ethics, and media manipulation in a post-9/11 world. The narrative pivots around Alex Murphy (Joel Kinnaman), a critically injured detective transformed into a cyborg by OmniCorp, overseen by CEO Raymond Sellars (Michael Keaton) and conflicted scientist Dr. Dennett Norton (Gary Oldman). The film critiques the commodification of safety and the erosion of humanity through its portrayal of a fearful populace manipulated by media and corporate interests.

While Padilha's direction provides imaginative camerawork and sleek CGI, he fails to capture the engaging, dark humor of the original. Kinnaman’s portrayal of Murphy is stiff, though it aligns with the character's cyborg nature post-transformation. The film delves into Murphy’s emotional struggle as he grapples with his new existence and family dynamics, offering a more significant focus on his wife Clara (Abbie Cornish) and son David (John Paul Ruttan). This human-centric narrative shift contrasts sharply with the original's emphasis on over-the-top action and satire. Despite these efforts, the film's PG-13 rating limits its impact, making it feel less visceral and more sanitized compared to its 1987 predecessor.

The screenplay attempts to tackle contemporary socio-political issues but often falls into repetitive scenes of corporate scheming and procedural evaluations. Performances are a mixed bag; Keaton's disinterest as Sellars contrasts with Oldman's nuanced portrayal of Dr. Norton. Jackson’s role as a manipulative news host adds some flair but lacks the biting commentary needed for effective satire. In sum, Padilha's "RoboCop" emerges as a visually polished yet emotionally distant remake that respects its source material’s themes but ultimately lacks its groundbreaking grit and wit.

RoboCop (2014) debuts on 4K UHD Blu-ray courtesy of Shout! Factory, boasting a finely tuned Dolby Vision HDR presentation that provides a significant visual upgrade over its Blu-ray predecessor. The sleek and stylish remake, helmed by Brazilian filmmaker José Padilha, offers a contemporary reimagining of Paul Verhoeven's 1987 classic. Characterized by heightened character development and dialogue that zeros in on the human aspect, Padilha’s version carves out its own place amidst the lore of Robocop. However, it diverges from the satirical edge that defined the original, leaning instead towards a more sterile and humorless tone.

The UHD release features a faithful transfer that highlights updated visual aesthetics and enhances the viewer's experience with improved picture quality. Unfortunately, the audio experience remains unchanged, as the disc ports over the same DTS-HD MA 5.1 soundtrack from earlier releases, which though competent, doesn’t offer anything new for audiophiles. Additionally, the package includes no fresh extras or additional content beyond new cover art, which may disappoint collectors and fans anticipating more comprehensive supplements.

In conclusion, while RoboCop (2014) on 4K UHD doesn't fully capture the original's gleefully wicked magic, it stands on its own with refined visuals and solid character-driven storytelling. Its technical merit with Dolby Vision HDR elevates the viewing experience, making it a worthy inclusion for fans seeking the best visual representation of the remake. Despite its colder and more detached tone, this release is recommended for completists and enthusiasts of the 2014 version. The absence of new sound enhancements and supplementary content might deter some, but the overall presentation still makes it a commendable addition to any collection.