Star Trek: The Motion Picture 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review
Score: 93
from 7 reviewers
Review Date:
Star Trek: TMP Director's Edition in 4K excels, blending legacy and innovation for fans and collectors.
Disc Release Date
True 4K
HDR10
Dolby Vision
Dolby Atmos
Dolby TrueHD
Video: 90
Paramount's Director's Edition of Star Trek: The Motion Picture impresses with a 4K restoration enhancing details and VFX, alongside improved Dolby Vision color grading, for a visually stunning UHD experience.
Audio: 96
The Director’s Edition of Star Trek: The Motion Picture, with its Dolby Atmos mix, offers an immersive, crystal-clear audio experience, showcasing impressively layered sounds, deep bass, and dynamic score, making the film feel modern and new.
Extra: 97
The Director's Edition of Star Trek: The Motion Picture dazzles with new and legacy commentaries, an extensive documentary, rare test footage, deleted scenes, and more, offering an unmatched deep dive into the iconic film's lore and production.
Movie: 84
Star Trek: The Motion Picture revitalized the franchise with a grand vision, improved effects, and deeper themes, enjoying renewed praise and a definitive edition.
Video: 90
Paramount's release of the Director's Edition of "Star Trek: The Motion Picture" in a 4K UHD Blu-ray format is a remarkable showcase of the film's original visual splendor, enhanced through meticulous restoration and modern technology. Shot on 35mm film using Panavision cameras and re-scanned from the original negative and master inter-positive elements at 4K, with its VFX negatives having been scanned at an even higher resolution of 6K-8K, this restoration elevates the visual experience to new heights. The additional Director's Edition effects, as well as CGI scenes originally created in standard definition for the 2001 edition, are now rendered in native 4K, offering a stunning clarity and depth to the visuals. The disc itself supports a native 3840 x 2160p resolution image in the widescreen 2.39:1 aspect ratio, leveraging 10-bit video depth, High Dynamic Range (HDR), and Wide Colour Gamut (WCG), encoded with the HEVC (H.265) codec for Dolby Vision and HDR10, all reviewed on high-end equipment to ensure fidelity to the unparalleled restoration effort.
Detail in the imagery is astonishing; from the textures of aging skin and the intricacies of Starfleet uniforms to the sprawling vistas of space docks and starships, everything looks more vivid and immersive than ever before. The application of HDR and WCG enriches colors with unprecedented intensity and nuance, giving scenes a natural essence and correcting previous color imbalances. However, while most of the visual effects shots are spectacular, some artifacts and inconsistencies, notably grain management and digital noise reduction during certain VFX sequences, detract slightly from the overall excellence. These issues, discussed extensively in the commentary tracks and supplements, reflect a delicate balance between preserving film authenticity and adapting it for modern high-definition standards.
This edition also introduces a new Dolby Vision color grade that enhances the visual experience by providing more accurate skin tones and brilliant whites without compromising black levels or shadow details. Despite minor glitches and a slight softness due to the original filming techniques and de-graining processes, this release stands as a testament to Paramount's dedication to presenting Robert Wise’s vision in the best possible light. The restoration not only pays homage to the movie's legacy but also showcases the meticulous care taken in updating it for contemporary audiences, offering an impressive depth that truly brings the vastness of space and the iconic imagery of Star Trek to life.
Audio: 96
The 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Star Trek: The Motion Picture - Director’s Edition" boasts a stunning Dolby Atmos track, presenting a notable improvement in the audio experience, particularly when compared to its Theatrical and Special Extended Edition counterparts, which utilize the Dolby TrueHD 7.1 and Dolby Digital 2.0 tracks, respectively. The Atmos mix creates an immersive soundscape that envelops the listener from the opening scenes, with Jerry Goldsmith's iconic score benefiting greatly from this audio revamp. The clarity and layering of musical instruments, along with the deep and resonant bass, enhance both the score and the sound effects throughout the film, from the rumbling of the ship’s engines to the precision of photon torpedoes firing across the room. Despite the occasional muffled dialogue in early scenes, the overall clarity and balance of audio elements are remarkable, making for a listening experience that feels both modern and exquisitely detailed.
Dialogue across all versions remains clear and crisp, with the Atmos track particularly enhancing vocal clarity by utilizing a variety of original ADR recordings. This clarity, coupled with the track's dynamic use of surround channels for music and ambient effects, brings a new dimension to the film’s soundstage. The meticulous attention to sound effects’ placement and movement adds an engaging layer to the viewing experience, ensuring that every nuance of the sound design is both appreciated and impactful. The Atmos mix also shines in its handling of low-frequency effects, offering a tight and punchy bass that adds depth to action sequences without overshadowing other audio elements.
The Director's Edition not only updates but significantly enhances the audio experience, providing a demo-worthy Dolby Atmos mix that showcases exceptional fidelity, dynamics, and immersion. Offering an expansive soundstage that makes full use of overhead and surround channels, this mix elevates every scene, from quieter dialogues to the grandiosity of space battles, ensuring a thoroughly engaging auditory experience. With levels meticulously balanced to prevent any need for remote adjustment, the mix allows listeners to immerse fully in the rich sonic tapestry of this classic film, enhanced to meet contemporary audio standards while preserving its original charm.
Extras: 97
The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Star Trek: The Motion Picture" offers an incredibly rich package for both new audiences and long-standing fans, combining groundbreaking visual and audio restorations with an exhaustive suite of extras. Notably, the set features comprehensive audio commentaries that delve deep into the creative and technical efforts of the original production team, offering new insights and preserving the legacy of the film's epic undertaking. The packaging, while lacking a hardcover protective case, thoughtfully includes a range of physical memorabilia that enhances the collector's experience, despite some practical challenges in disc storage. The inclusion of newly produced and legacy extras, such as the detailed "The Human Adventure" documentary and previously unseen deleted scenes, effects tests, and costume tests, alongside immersive audio tracks like the isolated score, provide a multidimensional exploration of the film's production and its enduring influence on the Star Trek franchise. This release not only celebrates the monumental efforts to bring this cinematic journey to life but also underscores the film's pivotal role in expanding the Star Trek universe.
Extras included in this disc:
Audio Commentary with David C. Fein, Mike Matessino, and Daren Dochterman – A new deep dive into the restoration process.
Audio Commentary by Robert Wise, Douglas Trumbull, John Dykstra, Jerry Goldsmith, and Stephen Collins – Offers historic insights from the original team.
Text Commentary by Michael and Denise Okuda – Provides trivia and background information for fans.
Isolated Score Track – Enjoy Jerry Goldsmith's iconic score in pristine quality.
The Human Adventure – An 8-part documentary detailing the Director’s Edition’s creation.
Deleted Scenes – Including three never-before-seen scenes.
Effects Tests, Costume Tests, Computer Display Graphics – New features revealing behind-the-scenes details.
The Star Trek Universe Featurettes – Covering various aspects including the lost "Phase II" Enterprise and the making of TMP.
Storyboards & Additional Scenes 1979 Theatrical Version
Deleted Scenes 1983 TV Version
Trailers & TV Spots – A collection of promotional materials.
Movie: 84
Star Trek: The Motion Picture's transition to the 4K UHD Blu-ray format is a monumental leap for fans and newcomers alike. Paramount has meticulously restored and remastered this classic, under the guidance of celebrated director Robert Wise, to present a definitive edition that optimizes the original vision for today's auditory and visual standards. The film, originally a product of the post-Star Wars sci-fi boom, has been granted new life with state-of-the-art visual effects and a Dolby Atmos remix that breathes fresh vigor into the Enterprise's maiden cinematic voyage. This endeavor was not merely about enhancing the picture quality; it involved a careful re-examination of the film, adding new scenes, altering dialogues, and incorporating alternate takes to refine the pacing and narrative coherence, thus making it more accessible for a contemporary audience while preserving the grand ideas and thematic depth that distinguish it from mere space operas.
In this 137-minute Director's Edition, every frame showcases the laborious task of refining what was previously seen as a rushed project into something that feels complete and majestic. The enhancements involve not only visual effects but also edits that bring clarity and a new perspective to the narrative. This version maintains the film's original aesthetic, avoiding any jarring additions that would detract from the established atmosphere and storytelling. It’s a restoration that remains faithful to its source while elevating it beyond its original capabilities, particularly through attention to detail in scenes depicting the vastness of V'ger and the intimate dynamics among Kirk, Spock, and McCoy. The movie's themes of exploration, existence, and humanity are given the depth and scope they deserve, supported by Jerry Goldsmith's compelling score that underlines the epic quality of their adventure.
Despite initial criticisms related to its pacing, Star Trek: The Motion Picture has undergone a critical reappraisal, with this latest edition highlighting its ambition to blend profound themes with the sense of adventure characteristic of the original series. The inclusion of enhanced visual effects, a fresh audio mix, and considered edits in the Director's Edition presents a compelling case for this entry as not only an essential part of Star Trek history but as a standalone cinematic accomplishment. This release ensures that both longtime fans and new viewers can experience the movie in unparalleled quality, offering both a celebration of its legacy and a beacon for future explorations in the Star Trek saga.
Total: 93
Star Trek: The Motion Picture's release on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray represents a milestone in science fiction cinema's home entertainment journey, particularly with the Director's Edition. Paramount Home Entertainment’s commitment to revitalizing this pivotal film is evident through its scrupulous restoration and enhancement efforts, delivering a visual and auditory experience that exceeds contemporary expectations. The native 4K restoration brings an unprecedented clarity and color fidelity to the film, which, combined with the Dolby Atmos surround track, offers an immersive viewing experience unparalleled in previous releases. This edition includes three versions of the film: The Theatrical, Special Extended, and the Director’s Edition, with the latter being a standout for its meticulous refinement and attention to detail.
The Director's Edition not only addresses the film’s previously unfinished status as noted by Robert Wise but also enriches the storytelling with subtle edits and alternate dialogues, providing a more coherent narrative flow. The inclusion of both new and archival bonus features adds considerable value, inviting viewers into the depth of Star Trek’s cinematic legacy. However, it is worth noting that this release does not encompass the standard theatrical cut, urging fans to retain their prior versions for a comprehensive collection. Despite this, the offering is elevated by its splendid packaging and range of 'tat,' making it an essential purchase for die-hard Trekkies and film collectors alike.
In conclusion, Star Trek: The Motion Picture’s Director’s Edition in 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray from Paramount is an exemplary release that not only honors the original vision but elevates it to contemporary standards. Its superior video and audio presentation, coupled with a wealth of supplemental materials, solidifies its status as a must-have for enthusiasts of the franchise and appreciators of film restoration. As it redefines the visual and sonic benchmarks for classic cinema in the modern age, this edition stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Star Trek and the possibilities of technological advancement in film preservation and enhancement.
avforums review by Simon CrustRead review here
Video: 100
Then this set has you catered for, as the second UHD contains not only the Theatrical Cut, but also, via seamless branching, the Special Extended Cut, made for TV audiences, running some 10 minutes longer...
Audio: 100
Right from the opening overture, and then the credits there is a genuine sense of immersion from the score; instruments are layered in the mix, and the clarity is amazing, while the separation opens up...
Extras: 90
Blu-Ray 3 – Bonus The Human Adventure – All new 8-part feature looking at the making of the Director’s Edition; titles are: Preparing the Future, A Wise Choice, Refitting the Enterprise, Sounding Off,...
Movie: 90
Whilst it took Nick Meyer and The Wrath of Khan to really give it that boost, the seeds were sown right here – and, unlike The Next Generation films, it genuinely felt like a continuation of the show;...
Total: 90
Telling an epic story, using the confines of the TV show's format, with a celebrated director, out of this world effects and all the original cast on board, The Motion Picture more than met expectation,...
Blu-ray.com review by Martin LiebmanRead review here
Video: 80
Look at the top left of the screen, the edge of the space dock, at the 17:20 mark; there's a glitch that sees the edge pulsating quite severely to the point of distraction, taking away from the spectacle...
Audio: 0
The track integrates little points of sound here and there, always in superb balance and discrete placement all around the listener....
Extras: 100
The New Frontier: Resurrecting Star Trek (1080p, 30:01): Looking back on the original series' success, the cancellation, projects between the TOS finale and TMP, the transition to the big screen, and more....
Movie: 80
There has been some significant tinkering, and the Fein, Matessino, and Dochterman commentary track goes into detail about many of the changes, though a number of them are simply left for the viewer to...
Total: 100
It's not perfect, but it does offer, beyond the cut, remastered video (which will prove somewhat controversial), exhilarating new Atmos audio, and plenty of extras spread across two discs....
The Digital Bits review by Bill HuntRead review here
Video: 95
The Star Trek: The Motion Picture – Director’s Edition is available on disc in three versions in the US—the 2-disc 4K Ultra HD release reviewed here, a 2-disc Blu-ray release (available on Amazon), and...
Audio: 100
The Director’s Edition team has found all kinds of original ADR recordings (including Wise’s preferred takes, a few of which never made it into the Theatrical Version), along with background dialogue,...
Extras: 100
Particularly interesting is a discussion of the recompositing they did for this version—taking the original large format VFX plates and putting them all together in best-ever resolution....
Movie: 95
And Enterprise has changed too, having undergone an extensive redesign and refit under the care of its chief engineer, Montgomery Scott (James Doohan)....
Total: 98
Hats off to all those involved in the making of this film, to David C. Fein, Mike Matessino, and Daren R. Dochterman for carrying the Director’s Edition torch (Congratulations, gentlemen!), and to everyone...
DoBlu review by Matt PaprockiRead review here
Video: 80
More than upscaling, everything is redone from the negatives at full 4K, bringing the additional footage into the modern era for a truly definitive version....
Audio: 100
When doors close specifically in a surround channel or the score sensationally parks a portion of itself in the heights, it’s magic, and among the best vintage upmixes to Atmos to date....
Extras: 100
The biggie is a new 48-minute documentary that delves deep into the production with numerous previously unseen tidbits, including raw set footage, visual effects plates, and countless interviews....
Movie: 80
Much as the ponderous first trip around the Enterprise stalls any sense of narrative, when Jerry Goldsmith’s sensational score increases tempo, what’s created is a monument to pop culture....
Total: 90
...
High-Def Digest review by Matthew HartmanRead review here
Video: 100
Some of the original optical effects still appear a little dodgy, but others look tighter and clearer than ever before....
Audio: 100
If anything, it’s actually easier to hear a lot of dialog exchanges since this cut used a number of different ADR takes for some dialog and the extra channel space keeps the mix from sounding too stiff...
Extras: 100
Storyboards Vulcan Enterprise Departure V’Ger Revealed Deleted Scenes - 1979 Theatrical Cut Trims (SD 6:08)...
Movie: 90
But when Paramount was readying their Special Edition DVD sets, they gave Robert Wise the chance to complete the film he envisioned with updated visual effects and a new edit....
Total: 100
Add in an extensive assortment of new and archival bonus features, this is a terrific release for the first cinematic mission of the Enterprise and her original crew....
AVSForum review by Ralph PottsRead review here
Video: 94
So, having provided the above, taken from the press release from the studio, I will begin by foregoing deep analysis with respect to the plot and will assume that if you’re reading this you are in fact...
Audio: 94
I am such a fan of the original Star Trek TV series and love the concept, characters and cast chosen to portray them....
Extras: 90
Audio Commentary by Robert Wise, Douglas Trumbull, John Dykstra, Jerry Goldsmith, and Stephen Collins Text Commentary by Michael and Denise Okuda Disc 2: Bonus Features Blu-ray The Human Adventure—An all-new...
Movie: 80
Meticulously restored and remastered, with enhanced visual effects and state-of-the-art sound, this definitive vision of director Robert Wise has been optimized for a new generation of fans....
Total: 90
The Director’s Edition is long past due for an upgraded home video release and this Ultra HD Blu-ray/Digital release from Paramount Home Entertainment with its fully restored video, Dolby Atmos sound and...
Why So Blu? review by Brandon PetersRead review here
Video: 100
HDR comes in wonderfully with engines lights, display lighters, lightning and the wild V’ger atmosphere really popping and glowing....
Audio: 100
Low Frequency Extension: Lots of score hits, ship firing, crashing, rumbling and more really gets a good thump and shake from your subwoofer....
Extras: 100
Mystery Behind V’GER”, “The New Frontier: Resurrecting Star Trek”, “Maiden Voyage: Making Star Trek The Motion Picture” Storyboards – Vulcan, Enterprise Departure, V’GER Revealed Additional Scenes 1979...
Movie: 80
Total: 100
This is a must have for the not only the Trekkie side of things, but the serious film collector as well....
Director: Robert Wise
Actors: William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, DeForest Kelley
PlotAn immense, cloud-like entity of vast power is detected on a direct course for Earth, destroying everything in its path. The entity, referred to as V'Ger, is a mystery that prompts the reassembling of an elite space crew. Admiral James T. Kirk assumes command of the newly refitted starship Enterprise to intercept and analyze the threat. With tensions running high and the crew somewhat rusty after significant time apart, they must navigate both interpersonal differences and the perils of deep space.
Upon reaching V'Ger, the crew of the Enterprise encounters an array of challenges. Their mission evolves from one of potential confrontation to a quest for understanding. Commander Spock, dealing with his own internal struggle, feels a strange affinity with V'Ger and risks his life to make contact. The crew's realization that V'Ger's motivations are not as they seem drives them to solve a puzzle with implications much larger than they initially anticipated.
Writers: Gene Roddenberry, Harold Livingston, Alan Dean Foster
Release Date: 08 Dec 1979
Runtime: 143 min
Rating: G
Country: United States
Language: English, Klingon