Superman III 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Superman III," sourced from a meticulous 4K scan and restoration of the original 35mm film shot on Panavision Cameras, breathes new life into this classic with a stunning visual presentation that leaps off the screen. Displayed at a native 3840 x 2160p resolution in a widescreen 2.4:1 aspect ratio, the image quality benefits immensely from 10-bit video depth, High Dynamic Range (HDR), Wide Colour Gamut (WCG), and is encoded using the HEVC (H.265) codec for HDR10. Such technical specifications ensure that every frame from the bustling streets of New York (serving as Metropolis) to the vivid detail in the Grand Canyon's formations is rendered with pristine clarity and depth. The detail is outstanding, from the textures of clothing to the distinct landscapes, complemented by the rich and vigorous use of color thanks to WCG and HDR, enhancing primaries and adding depth where needed.

Notably, this release showcases significant upgrades in palette saturation and detail over its 1080p predecessor, particularly in scenes with special effects, where the increased resolution reveals more of the compositional seams—a common characteristic in older films but hardly detracting from this version's overall excellence. Large swaths of vibrant blues and reds, alongside more nuanced sequences that showcase silver highlights and a broader color spectrum in previously monochromatic areas, contribute to a visually engaging experience. Despite some variability in grain—attributable to the original optical effects—the grain structure here remains one of the more consistently tight across the series, marking an impressive enhancement over earlier releases.

Nonetheless, it's not without its minor quibbles. Some sequences exhibit a slight green tint to Superman's suit during matte shots, an issue inherent to the original production, and flesh tones, while generally natural, can veer off under certain conditions. Additionally, occasional brightness fluctuations noted by some viewers seem less pronounced compared to previous versions, with a deep and pitch-black level enhancing frame depth and shadow detail, affirming this transfer’s superiority. The meticulous restoration effort has effectively minimized print damage, preserving a very fine grain structure across the board without succumbing to digital compression issues, securing "Superman III’s" place as a technical marvel in the realm of 4K UHD Blu-ray presentations.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Superman III" boasts an English Dolby Atmos track that enhances the audio experience, especially during the film's most dynamic scenes. This audio presentation replaces the previous DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, offering a significant improvement in immersion and sound quality. The Atmos track shines by creating a decent surround environment, particularly noticeable during action sequences. While the height channels truly come into their own during moments like the junkyard fight, missile attack, and the super-computer battle, providing a genuine sense of immersion and impact. Dialogue is consistently clean and clear, with intelligent use of directionality when needed. The effects are well-executed, matching the on-screen action effectively, making scenes like the opening fire, explosions, and mayhem feel more vivid and engaging.

The Atmos experience introduces increased verticality in sound during select scenes, such as the opening background noise and Superman's various heroics, which are significantly more immersive than in the older 5.1 mixes. The bass is deep and tight, contributing to the action with numerous low-frequency effects and rumbles. John Williams’ iconic Superman theme is a standout in the audio mix, benefiting from excellent separation and layering that elevates the entire auditory experience. Optional subtitles are provided in several languages, offering accessibility without detracting from the auditory experience.

Reviewing the audio quality on a system comprising the Denon AVR-X4300H, MK Sound LCR750 with SUR55T, XTZ S2 Atmosphere ceiling mounted speakers, and an SVS PB-12 Ultra subwoofer reveals how well the Atmos track complements high-end home theater setups. This enhanced listening experience, with its carefully calibrated sound design and score presentation, demonstrates a thoughtful audio upgrade for "Superman III," making it a substantial improvement over its predecessor formats for both casual viewers and audiophiles alike.

The extras presented in the 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Superman III" cater primarily to aficionados of the franchise, offering a nostalgic look back rather than presenting new material. It maintains the established tradition by including previously released audio commentary by producers Ilya Salkind and Pierre Spengler on both the UHD and accompanying Blu-ray discs without adding fresh commentary or insights. The inclusion of "The Making of Superman III," a 1983 TV special, provides a retro perspective on the film's production. Deleted scenes and the theatrical trailer round out the extras, serving to enrich the viewer's appreciation and understanding of this specific installment in the Superman saga. Fans looking for novel features may find this release lacking; however, those revisiting or discovering "Superman III" for the first time will find these extras a valuable peek into its legacy.

Extras included in this disc:

• UHD Audio Commentary: Commentary by Ilya Salkind and Pierre Spengler.
• Blu-ray Audio Commentary: Same commentary track as on the UHD disc.
• The Making of Superman III: A 1983 TV Special that dives into the production processes.
• Deleted Scenes: Additional scenes not included in the main feature.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original promotional trailer for the film.

Superman III marks a distinct shift in the franchise, steering into a more comedic territory under the helm of director Richard Lester. This transition is mirrored in Ken Thorne's musical score, which, while incorporating John Williams' iconic themes from the first film, fails to capture the same grandeur, settling instead for a more playful and less impactful accompaniment that resonates with the film’s lighter, albeit less acclaimed, tone. Notably, Christopher Reeve’s portrayal of both Superman and Clark Kent showcases a remarkable range of acting skills, particularly shining through his dark turn and flirtatious rapport with Lana Lang. The inclusion of comedy legend Richard Pryor as a "hapless patsy," though a deviation from the series’ earlier gravitas, provides a sympathetic yet comedic touch that aligns with the film's overall whimsical nature.

The narrative introduces Ross Webster, a villain bearing similarities to Lex Luthor but with a Bond-villain flare, portrayed compellingly by Robert Vaughn. The plot weaves together a coherent story with a solid setup and payoff, hinting at potential that is regrettably undermined by the film’s execution and its insistence on nurturing a comedic facade even in moments ripe for seriousness. This misalignment between theme and tone highlights a missed opportunity to balance humor with the thematic depth characteristic of its predecessors. The treatment of Margo Kidder’s Lois Lane underscores a shift in focus, reducing her to a cameo, underscoring the film's departure from established dynamics in favor of new narrative experiments.

As part of the Superman I-IV 5-Film Collection 4K, Superman III's transition to 4K UHD serves as a reminder of the series' evolving legacy, fraught with bold choices and varying reception. Despite technological enhancements affording sharper visuals and sound, these improvements spotlight the creative decisions that set this installment apart, for better or worse, from its more revered origins. The juxtaposition of nostalgic elements with contemporary upgrades invites audiences to reassess Superman III within the broader tapestry of superhero cinema, acknowledging its role in shaping, and occasionally skewing, the trajectory of one of cinema’s most iconic heroes.

In evaluating the 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation of "Superman III," directed by Richard Lester, it is evident the film takes a significant departure from its predecessors, aiming for a more comedic and less serious tone. Despite the potential offered by its strong cast and well-structured script, the execution falters, failing to fully leverage the narrative's possibilities. This divergence in direction results in a mixed reception of its cinematic quality, yet the technical presentation on this format is noteworthy. The 4K resolution offers a pristine image quality, boasting clean, detailed visuals with vibrant colors and deep blacks. The Dolby Atmos audio track complements the visual upgrade with an encompassing sound field, showcasing well-utilized effects and a robust bass response. However, it's disappointing to note the lack of new special features, leaving fans with only the previously available content.

On the technical front, Warner Bros. has done an admirable job with the 4K UHD presentation of "Superman III." The film's image and sound quality are significantly enhanced on this medium, presenting an opportunity for viewers to experience the movie with an unprecedented level of clarity and immersion. This edition reaffirms the trend seen in recent high-definition releases, where the focus is intensely placed on maximizing the audio-visual experience for the audience. Although this effort is commendable, the absence of new extras may leave collectors wanting more, especially considering the wealth of material potentially exploring the film's production nuances and legacy.

In conclusion, "Superman III" on 4K UHD Blu-ray stands as a testament to the technological advancements in home media, offering a visually stunning and audibly impressive experience that arguably surpasses its theatrical presentation. While the film itself may not have aged as gracefully in terms of narrative and thematic execution, this release allows for a newfound appreciation of its technical aspects. For enthusiasts and collectors alike, this edition is a worthy addition, especially for those looking to complete their Superman collection in the highest quality available. However, the recycled supplements represent a missed opportunity to delve deeper into this unique chapter of the Superman saga.