Old Henry 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

The recent release of "Old Henry" on 4K UHD Blu-ray by Shout! Studios, following its initial Blu-ray edition, offers a nuanced uptick in visual quality that warrants attention, though it may not revolutionize the viewing experience for every fan. This edition, housed alongside a BD-50 disc and presented in a crisp 3840x2160 resolution, ventures into the territory of enhanced detail and color fidelity, albeit with certain limitations due to its original digital intermediate (DI) possibly being finished in 2K. The cinematography by John Matyśiak, utilizing ARRI Alexa Mini with special diffusion filters for a more period-authentic look, translates into a presentation where softness is intentional, and colors are deliberately muted, echoing the aesthetic choices seen in its festival circuit appearances. The HDR10 grading enhances this visual style without overstepping, preserving the film's original mood and tone.

Technical comparisons between the Shout! release and its German counterpart by Koch Media, or even against streaming versions, highlight the physical disc's advantage in bitrate, averaging 85.00 Mbps, which supports better clarity especially in close-up textures and natural cinematic grain. Despite these inherent improvements, the film's wide 2.66:1 aspect ratio scenes and exterior shots benefit modestly from the higher resolution and HDR grading. Colors appear slightly more vibrant, with better differentiation in the fall-like palette, and dark scenes gaining depth without losing detail. These enhancements contribute to a slightly superior visual experience on disc compared to previous releases or digital streaming versions, especially notable in scenes where additional light shading and gradience improve upon the original look without altering the intended style.

Nevertheless, while the 4K UHD Blu-ray presents an incremental improvement in visual depth and detail, making it the definitive version for newcomers or enthusiasts craving the utmost in picture quality, it's a marginal upgrade for those already satisfied with their Blu-ray copies. The care in preserving the film's aesthetic integrity while pushing the boundaries of available technology showcases a respectful balance in this release, though it might not justify a repurchase for all existing owners. With considerations towards the film's shoot specifics and intended visual presentation, this release underscores the subtle yet appreciable benefits of physical media in offering the highest fidelity of home cinema experiences.

The audio presentation of "Old Henry" on 4K UHD Blu-ray features an adeptly crafted DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 Surround track at 3200 kbps, 24-bit, and a secondary DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Stereo downmix at 1730 kbps, 24-bit. Both tracks handle the sound with remarkable professionalism, offering a rich and immersive listening experience that stands as testament to the careful attention to detail seen throughout the film's audio production. Dialogue, a crucial element due to the film's intense character-driven moments and tightly delivered lines—especially from characters like Nelson—comes across crisp and emotive. The scoring, led by Jordan Lehning, wraps scenes in a moody embrace, employing orchestral tones with precise instrumentation that never overwhelms but rather enhances the mood.

Notably, the soundstage created within the 5.1 Surround setup excels in delivering depth and clarity, capturing the finer details of atmospherics and directional sound. Ambient noises and horse movements are nuanced, creating a convincing backdrop to the foreground action. Key elements such as gunshots and the reverberation of bullets off trees articulate an engaging auditory experience, especially in sequences that utilize the rear channels to their fullest potential. Low-end frequencies, whilst not overemphasized, impart adequate weight to suspenseful and action-packed moments, thus rounding off a sound mix that respects both fidelity and narrative necessity.

Furthermore, Shout! Factory's inclusion of various language options with corresponding subtitles — notably compulsory English for Spanish dialogues alongside optional German subtitles — ensures accessibility without detracting from the immersive quality of the original tracks. Despite some opinions on the absence of more contemporary object-based sound formats like Atmos or DTS:X, this film's audio treatment through DTS-HD MA 5.1 is validated by its meticulous mix and rich auditory landscape. This not only fulfills but surpasses expectations for the genre, proving that immense care has been taken to present "Old Henry" in an audio-visual format that respects both its thematic gravitas and technical intricacies.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Old Henry" comes with a modest collection of extras, primarily focused on enriching the viewing experience for fans and cinephiles alike. The package includes a Behind-the-Scenes look and the film's Theatrical Trailer. The Behind-the-Scenes featurette is an eight-minute glimpse into the production, offering interviews with key cast members and the director, Potsy Ponciroli, giving insights into the making of this gritty western. It’s a straightforward Electronic Press Kit (EPK) style segment that, while informative, might leave enthusiasts craving more in-depth exploration. The Theatrical Trailer, presented in high definition, encapsulates the film's late scenes with compelling visuals and sound, but viewers are cautioned to watch it post-film to avoid spoilers. Despite the crisp presentation, the absence of new bonus material or deeper dives into the filmmaking process might be felt by those looking for an extensive behind-the-scenes exploration.

Extras included in this disc:

• A Behind-the-Scenes Look at OLD HENRY with the Cast and Filmmakers: A conventional EPK featuring insights from the creative team.
• Theatrical Trailer: Official trailer for "Old Henry", caution advised to avoid potential spoilers.

Old Henry," a film directed by Potsy Ponciroli, is a homage to the American Western genre, blending elements from both traditional and revisionist narratives. Set in the Oklahoma Territory of 1906, it tells the story of Henry McCarty (Tim Blake Nelson), a widowed farmer living a quiet life with his teenage son, Wyatt (Gavin Lewis). This tranquility is disrupted when they take in a wounded stranger, unveiling a tale of suspense, identity, and moral ambiguity. The film weaves historical fiction and mystery through characters whose pasts are as compelling as their present, leading viewers into a narrative that questions the true nature of its protagonists.

Visually, "Old Henry" benefits greatly from the 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation, offering crisp imagery that enhances the immersive experience of the rugged landscape and intensifies the pivotal siege, where every bullet counts. Tim Blake Nelson delivers a captivating performance as Henry, a man whose complex past slowly unfurls, proving once again his versatility in the Western genre. Supported by Stephen Dorff's portrayal of Ketchum, an antagonist whose arrival brings Henry's dark past to the forefront, and Scott Haze's mysterious wounded man, the cast brings depth and intensity to the unfolding drama. Gavin Lewis stands out as young Wyatt, embodying the coming-of-age aspect that parallels historical narratives explored in previous films like "The Kid."

"Old Henry" revives the essence of Westerns, mixing classic elements with a modern sensibility that speaks to both longtime fans of the genre and newcomers. The clarity and depth of the 4K presentation add a visual layer that complements the narrative's complexity. With its engaging storyline and strong performances, "Old Henry" asserts itself as more than just another addition to the Western genre; it's a riveting exploration of character, identity, and redemption, solidifying its place as a modern classic in its own right.

Old Henry" shines brightly in the pantheon of modern Westerns, thanks in large measure to riveting performances by Tim Blake Nelson and Stephen Dorff. Nelson, known for his compelling roles in the Coen brothers' films, embodies the titular character with a nuanced depth that invites comparisons to his most memorable parts. Dorff, as the villain Ketchum, reminds us of his underappreciated acting prowess, making every scene he's in utterly compelling. The technical presentation of "Old Henry" on 4K UHD Blu-ray, although similar to its Blu-ray counterpart, distinguishes itself through superior detail, grain, and texture afforded by its 2160p resolution. While the Koch Media edition incorporates Dolby Vision, it falls slightly short by not offering Dolby Atmos, a decision that leans favorably towards the Shout! Studios version with its higher average video bitrate. Both versions, however, ensure that viewers receive exceptional visual quality to accompany this compelling narrative.

The 4K UHD package from Shout! Factory marks a significant addition for collectors and aficionados of the genre. Although the HDR10 transfer offers only modest improvements over previous Blu-ray versions, it's complemented by a robust audio mix that elevates the cinematic experience. The absence of new bonus features is a missed opportunity to delve deeper into the creative process behind "Old Henry," yet this does little to detract from the overall appeal of this release. As a film that aligns so well with both the aesthetics and ethos of traditional Westerns while providing fresh perspectives, "Old Henry" asserts itself as more than just another addition to one's collection—it's a new favorite for many.

In conclusion, "Old Henry" on 4K UHD Blu-ray is a compelling proposition for fans and newcomers alike. While the technical specifications might not warrant an upgrade for those already satisfied with their Blu-ray copy, the stellar performances and immersive audio-visual presentation make it a highly recommended acquisition. As we look forward to more classic Westerns receiving the Blu-ray and 4K treatment, "Old Henry" sets a high bar for quality and entertainment value, solidly earning its spot in any collection.