The Guns of Navarone 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review
SteelBook
Score: 84
from 4 reviewers
Review Date:
The Guns of Navarone 4K UHD offers enhanced Dolby Vision grading and excellent audio, making it a top choice for new collectors, despite modest upgrades over previous releases.
Disc Release Date
True 4K
HDR10
Dolby Vision
Dolby Atmos
DTS-HD MA
Dolby TrueHD
Video: 85
The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of 'The Guns of Navarone' offers subtle yet noticeable enhancements with Dolby Vision, delivering stunning color intensity and improved black levels, although the improvements from the previous 4K edition are marginal. For those seeking top-tier visual quality, it remains the best presentation of the film.
Audio: 87
Sony's 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "The Guns of Navarone" offers a thrilling audio experience with a choice of DTS-HD MA 5.1, DTS-HD MA 4.0 stereo, and an impressive Dolby Atmos mix. The Atmos track enhances action scenes with dynamic soundscapes and robust bass, while preserving the choice for nostalgic fans with classic tracks.
Extra: 81
The 4K UHD release of 'The Guns of Navarone' retains its rich suite of bonus features, including the engaging Dolby Atmos track, insightful director and historian audio commentaries, and in-depth documentaries like 'Forging The Guns of Navarone', all previously available on the 2011 Blu-ray edition.
Movie: 77
The 4K UHD Blu-ray of 'The Guns of Navarone' reintroduces the timeless WWII action classic with Dolby Vision enhancement and stylish SteelBook packaging, retaining its thrilling narrative and standout performances from Gregory Peck and Anthony Quinn, but lacking historical accuracy, it excels in captivating action and adventure.
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Video: 85
The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "The Guns of Navarone" delivers a robust visual experience, reflecting the culmination of restoration efforts dating back to 1992. Initially using damaged source materials, Sony's restoration now shines with modern enhancements in the latest release. The primary visual upgrade lies in the Dolby Vision color grading, a step up from HDR10. This improvement offers a slightly richer and more vivacious color palette, particularly notable in sequences like the daylight explosion at the 31:40 mark, where colors appear intense against natural backdrops. Despite the film's original limitations and inherent grain due to its 1961 production, Sony has achieved a visually pleasing representation that respects its cinematic origins. The image quality maintains a consistent texture with rich blacks, stable contrast, and lifelike skin tones.
In this iteration, the film remains faithful to its cinematic roots while embracing advanced technologies. Although subtle, Dolby Vision enhances the shadowy sequences, lending depth without distorting the overall aesthetics. The blacks attain a deeper, truer shade, occasionally coming close to crush but generally maintaining exceptional black levels. Whites present as brilliant and bold, contributing to overall image vibrancy. Those viewing on larger displays will appreciate the delicate improvements that might elude the casual viewer yet elevate the film's visual storytelling. Nonetheless, for those satisfied with the previous HDR10 release, this new version may not merit an immediate upgrade despite its incremental visual refinements.
Ultimately, this release stands as a testament to Sony's commitment to preserving and enhancing classic cinema for contemporary audiences, offering what is arguably the finest home viewing experience for this historic war epic. However, existing owners of the 4K edition may find the differences minimal unless they desire the best possible video fidelity.
Audio: 87
The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "The Guns of Navarone" offers a diverse array of audio options that cater to a wide range of preferences. Sony has retained its previous offerings with three distinct tracks: Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, and DTS-HD MA 4.0 stereo, ensuring fidelity to both modern and original soundscapes. The Dolby Atmos track is notably impressive, delivering a dynamic and impactful aural experience. It enriches the film's action sequences with substantial bass and precise sound placement, effectively harnessing the capabilities of overhead channels. This results in a robust audio environment during critical scenes—such as cannon fire and aerial sequences—which truly amplifies the immersive quality of the film. While some minor dips in volume are noted, particularly during ocean sequences, these do not significantly detract from the overall experience.
The DTS-HD MA 5.1 mix, carried over from previous releases, remains a competent choice. It provides a solid surround sound experience, albeit without the same excitement that the Atmos track delivers. It competently handles the broad soundscape associated with the film, making it a reliable option for viewers who prefer an enveloping yet straightforward audio mix.
In contrast, the DTS-HD MA 4.0 track shines as a faithful nod to the film's original sound design. This mix impressively balances nostalgic authenticity with today's audio clarity standards. While imaging is less expansive compared to the other tracks, it offers distinct, direct sound through the front channels, which can be particularly engaging for audiences favoring purist presentations. Though not all sound effects translate seamlessly across the enhanced sound channels, the audio presentation largely meets high expectations set by contemporary remasters while preserving the historical essence of the cinematic experience.
Extras: 81
The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of The Guns of Navarone offers a comprehensive suite of extras, combining both new and legacy content that will captivate cinephiles and history enthusiasts alike. The disc features a notably diverse array of supplemental materials, transitioning smoothly from the technical aspects of filmmaking to insightful commentaries and interactive experiences. The new Dolby Atmos track significantly enhances the auditory experience, while the dual audio commentaries by director J. Lee Thompson and historian Stephen J. Rubin provide valuable perspectives on the film's production and historical context. The "Forging The Guns of Navarone" segment is especially robust, covering production insights in Greece extensively. Meanwhile, features like the "Ironic Epic of Heroism" enhance understanding of the film’s cultural impact. Overall, this set successfully blends restoration segments with intimate historical insights, offering a substantial package for viewers.
Extras included in this disc:
- NEW Main Title Progression Reel: Different stages of the main titles.
- Theatrical Trailer: Promotional material showcasing scenes.
- Audio Commentary by Director J. Lee Thompson: Insightful look back at production.
- Audio Commentary by Film Historian Stephen J. Rubin: Fact-filled historical perspective.
- The Resistance Dossier of Navarone: Interactive feature exploring resistance elements.
- Forging The Guns of Navarone: Comprehensive making-of segment.
- An Ironic Epic of Heroism: Exploration of film's integration with Greek culture.
- Memories of Navarone: Retrospective with key cast members.
- Epic Restoration: Detailing the 2011 Blu-ray restoration process.
- A Heroic Score: Examination of Dimitri Tiomkin's musical contributions.
- Great Guns: Arrival of cast and crew in Greece.
- No Visitors: Insight into the production scale.
- Honeymoon on Rhodes: Promotion tied to the movie's locale.
- Two Girls on the Town: Irene Papas' reflection on her role.
- Narration-Free Prologue: Prologue without narration.
- Message from Carl Foreman: Foreman’s taped message at the Australian premiere.
Movie: 77
The 1961 classic "The Guns of Navarone" stands as a testament to the WWII action-adventure genre, embodying dazzling spectacle and crowd-pleasing drama. Central to its appeal is the thrilling storyline, which pivots around an impossible mission: a small team must infiltrate the guarded island of Navarone to destroy the formidable German artillery threatening Allied operations in the Aegean Sea. The narrative expertly balances tension and camaraderie, particularly capturing the complex dynamic between Gregory Peck’s Captain Mallory and Anthony Quinn’s Colonel Stavros, culminating in a roller-coaster of suspense and catharsis.
The film, while not striving for historical accuracy, prioritized blockbuster entertainment – a goal it certainly achieves. Key performances from a star-studded cast, including David Niven as the witty Corporal Miller, bolster the film’s emotional core, threading humor and grit into a well-paced tale. The cast’s ability to carry the film elevates its status beyond mere action flicks, presenting depth through plausible story arcs, commendable acting, and strategic narrative build-up, distinguishing it from modern CGI-reliant spectacles.
In its 4K UHD re-release, "The Guns of Navarone" benefits from enhanced Dolby Vision color grading, enriching its visual allure and complementing its existing Dolby Atmos audio. This edition also brings a sleek SteelBook packaging, offering a collector's piece that balances oud aesthetic choices with modern appeal. While superficial elements like special effects might lag behind today’s standards, this film remains engrossing because of its vintage charm and solid storytelling. This UHD release reaffirms the film's enduring legacy as a quintessential example of WWII adventure filmmaking that still captivates audiences decades after its theatrical debut.
Total: 84
The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "The Guns of Navarone" has been lauded for its stunning technical advancements and visual appeal. Sony's meticulous work on this classic has resulted in exceptional picture quality, particularly enhanced by the Dolby Vision color grading. The visual updates breathe new life into the film, which was already impressive, and now boasts even richer and more dynamic visuals. Meanwhile, the sound quality maintains the high standards set by previous releases, with an impressive array of HD audio tracks that cater to audiophiles and casual viewers alike. Subtle improvements over the earlier 2021 UHD release are noted, though they may not be substantial enough for those who already own this version to upgrade unless drawn by the aesthetic appeal of the new SteelBook packaging.
The film itself stands as a paragon of classic high-adventure, praised for its engrossing narrative and well-drawn characters embodied by Gregory Peck, Anthony Quinn, and David Niven. Its depiction of WWII remains engaging over 60 years since its original release, proving that "The Guns of Navarone" still holds its ground even amidst modern cinematic endeavors. The additional content from legacy releases enriches the package further, offering a comprehensive viewing experience for fans and newcomers.
In conclusion, this latest edition is a testament to Sony’s commitment to preserving cinematic history while enhancing viewer enjoyment with state-of-the-art technology. While the most significant draw for existing owners would be the collectible SteelBook and minor enhancements, those without previous purchases are presented with an ideal opportunity to experience a blend of old-world cinema and cutting-edge media technology. The "The Guns of Navarone" 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray SteelBook edition is a worthy addition to any classic film collector's lineup and comes highly recommended.
AV Nirvana review by Michael ScottRead review here
Video: 90
All in all, this is a great disc that looks ever so slightly superior to the previous 4K release....
Audio: 90
Not only do they give foreign language options in lossless DTS-HD MA, but they tweaked the audio mix for Atmos, but also left the 5.1 DTS-HD MA and original 4.0 Stereo track (also in lossless DTS-HD MA)...
Extras: 100
• NEW DOLBY ATMOS TRACK + 5.1 audio + original theatrical 4-track stereo • Playback available with and without Original Roadshow Intermission Card • NEW Main Title Progression Reel • Theatrical Trailer...
Movie: 80
The top brass decide that the only way to keep Turkey from entering the side of the war in favor of the Axis powers (they were eyeing both sides, reluctant to jump in until a clear winner was estimated)...
Total: 90
Being that this steelbook is basically the 2021 disc, just updated with modern Dolby Vision enhancements over the base HDR10 that came with the "old" disc (just with new steelbook packaging), fans of the...
Blu-ray.com review by Martin LiebmanRead review here
Video: 90
Contrast that with the many darker shots in the film which enjoy rich blacks that might teeter a time or two towards crush, but there is no mistaking overall black level health and excellence on display....
Audio: 100
Sony has simply re-issued the existing Dolby Atmos soundtrack from the previous UHD release....
Extras: 100
Sony brings The Guns of Navarone to the UHD format for the second time with the same extras from the previous UHD issue, including those on the UHD disc proper as well as those on the bundled Blu-ray,...
Movie: 80
This new release is largely the same with the exception of added Dolby Vision color grading and SteelBook packaging....
Total: 90
The audio is just as good, and all of the legacy content is carried over from both the previous Blu-ray and UHD issues....
Blu-ray Authority review by Matt Brighton and Fusion3600Read review here
Video: 90
But with the advent of 4K and Sony’s commitment to excellence in that department, we’re now treated to a new 4K version that, simply put, blows the other one out of the water....
Audio: 90
Like the video, these tracks don’t hold a candle to modern day releases, but I will say that the Atmos managed to pack quite a punch, giving some added “oomph” to certain key scenes....
Extras: 70
Ironic Epic of Heroism – We get a look at the making of the film as well as the way the film integrated with the people of Greece and so forth....
Movie: 0
Even in the good runs, it appears like the Germans are always right behind them, ready to thwart the mission....
Total: 80
Fans of the film should add this to their collection without a second thought and if you’re into Steelbooks, this one is pretty good-looking....
High-Def DigestRead review here
Video: 80
Even with some of those baked-in limitations from how the film was shot to how it was poorly archived, this is still a great-looking disc so if you didn’t buy it already, it’s a satisfying upgrade from...
Audio: 80
Some of the canned sound effects and dubbed in lines can feel a bit hollow and stand out more in Atmos than the other two mixes, but it’s not overly distracting....
Extras: 60
Blu-ray Disc Audio Commentary featuring director J. Lee Thompson Audio Commentary featuring historian Stephen J Rubin Forging the Guns of Navarone Ironic Epic of Heroism Memories of...
Movie: 80
The Guns of Navarone was the first Alistar MacLean novel to make it to the big screen in 1961 and it’s arguably the best, even though I do have a heavy soft spot for Where Eagles Dare....
Total: 80
The Dolby Vision grade and the slightly different encoding offer up some small advantages, but nothing substantial enough to blow the slightly older HDR10 disc out of the water....
Director: J. Lee Thompson
Actors: David Niven, Gregory Peck, Anthony Quinn
PlotDuring WWII, an Allied commando team is tasked with an urgent mission: to destroy a pair of massive German guns on the Greek island of Navarone that command a sea channel. These guns threaten Allied naval ships, as they attempt to rescue British soldiers stranded on another island, Kheros, trapped by German troops. With time running out, the fleet is unable to proceed with the evacuation, and the survival of the British soldiers hangs in the balance. The guns are ensconced in an almost impenetrable cliffside fortress, making a frontal attack impossible.
The team, composed of experts from various fields, includes a mountaineer, an engineer, a Greek resistance fighter, and a leading British Major. Disguised as Greek fishermen, they must traverse the Aegean Sea, infiltrate occupied territory, and confront the treacherous mountainous terrain of Navarone. Complicating matters further, personal tensions and conflicting motives among team members threaten to unravel the mission from within. Nonetheless, they must forge ahead, relying on their skills, stealth, and each other to navigate German patrols, overcome natural obstacles, and find a way to bring down the guns before the naval fleet arrives and the window for rescue closes.
Writers: Alistair MacLean, Carl Foreman
Release Date: 28 Apr 1961
Runtime: 158 min
Rating: Not Rated
Country: United Kingdom, United States
Language: English, Greek, German, Latin