Strange World 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review
Score: 77
from 4 reviewers
Review Date:
Strange World: visually stunning, mixed humor, replay limits; great 4K release.
Disc Release Date
2K Upscale
HDR10
Dolby Atmos
Dolby TrueHD
Video: 89
Strange World's UHD transfer shines with vivid HDR colors and refined details, offering a visually luxurious experience with incremental improvements over Blu-ray.
Audio: 81
Disney's Dolby Atmos tracks for releases like Strange World show improvement, but still mix dynamic surrounds with slightly underwhelming bass and high notes, needing volume adjustments.
Extra: 56
The Strange World UHD disc lacks extras, but the Blu-ray includes featurettes, outtakes, deleted scenes, and a digital copy. Highlights are behind-the-scenes insights and detailed explorations of animation, science, and creatures in the film.
Movie: 63
Strange World merges unique sci-fi with family dynamics in a visually stunning journey, flawed by humor attempts but shines in exploration and representation.
Video: 89
Disney's release of "Strange World" on 4K UHD Blu-ray showcases an exemplary use of the format's capabilities, particularly through its HDR10 encoding. The film benefits from a wider color spectrum, offering a visual experience that surpasses its 1080p Blu-ray counterpart, especially in terms of color depth and saturation. Greens and reds are notably more vibrant, bringing Avalonia and its peculiar environments to life with an intensity and realism unachievable in the lower resolution format. While the blacks are deeper, providing a stark contrast that enhances visual fidelity, the whites are brighter and more natural, contributing to an overall image that is both dynamic and engaging. However, it's important to note that in terms of sheer detail and sharpness, the 4K UHD doesn’t mark a radical departure from the Blu-ray. Fine details such as textures and character specifics maintain clarity, but the significant advantage lies in the enriched color palette and improved black levels which amplify the visual storytelling.
Encoded in HEVC / H.265 with a 2160p resolution and framed at a 2.39:1 aspect ratio, "Strange World" appears to be an upscale from 1080p. Despite this, the depth of field is pronounced, conveying a sense of three-dimensionality that complements the fluidity of movement and action sequences without any noticeable blurring. Color reproduction is where the 4K UHD version truly shines, with saturated and vibrant hues that leap off the screen, making scenes lush and immersive. HDR enhances this further by accentuating highlights and shadows, adding depth to scenes with nuanced gradients and making the energy-producing Pando plant glow with an almost tangible energy.
In essence, while "Strange World" may not boast groundbreaking improvements in detail due to its 1080p animation origins, the 4K UHD Blu-ray excels in delivering a richer, more colorful, and visually captivating experience. The improvements in color saturation, contrast, and overall image luminosity make this format the superior choice for home viewing, providing viewers with a more vivid and immersive dive into the strange yet beautifully rendered world that Disney has crafted.
Audio: 81
Disney's "Strange World" 4K UHD Blu-ray release showcases an admirable Dolby Atmos audio track that marks a noteworthy advancement over their standard offerings, particularly against the backdrop of its accompanying Blu-ray's DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 soundtrack. While the Atmos experience doesn't quite reach the depth and richness of the 7.1 track, it stands out with clear, center-focused dialogue throughout the movie, coupled with a robust execution of bass that, although not earth-shattering, delivers a defined and engaging experience from start to finish. The Atmos track shines in its use of the surround and height channels, creating an immersive experience with well-balanced music, effects, and vocal clarity, despite some inconsistencies in the utilization of the height channels and a slightly compressed top-end audio quality.
In terms of dynamics and surround sound, "Strange World" presents a solid but slightly underwhelming low frequency extension, with substantial bass presence during key moments such as earthquakes, yet it falls short of delivering the full impact one might expect. The surround channels are diligently employed to convey movement and action, enriching the atmosphere with ambient sounds and detailed audio elements. However, there's a notable need to increase the volume beyond standard levels to fully appreciate the intricacies of the mix. The overhead channels contribute to the soundscape with lighter ambiance and scoring, adding layers to the auditory experience even if they don’t consistently showcase discrete effects.
The Atmos track's handling of the film's score and dialogue remains commendable, ensuring that the adventurous spirit of "Strange World" is conveyed with heft and wonder, albeit with room for improvement in achieving a fuller, more dynamic range. Some areas of the mix may come across as Disney-typical rather than pushing the boundaries toward what other studios’ Atmos mixes have achieved. Nevertheless, this release signals Disney's ongoing effort to enhance their audio presentations, delivering an engaging albeit imperfect auditory journey that complements the visual spectacle of "Strange World.
Extra: 56
The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Strange World" may not feature extras on the UHD disc itself but compensates with a bundled Blu-ray filled with engaging supplements. Despite lacking a commentary track, it includes featurettes that delve into the film's visual challenges, the intersection of biology and storytelling, creature design, as well as hidden easter eggs. Particularly noteworthy is "Anatomy of a Scene," which offers an in-depth look at the creation of a pivotal sequence, exemplifying the meticulous effort involved in digital animation. "Strange Science" hosted by Jaboukie Young-White and "Creature Feature" styled after retro documentaries, add educational and entertaining dimensions to the extras. Additionally, viewers can enjoy outtakes and a selection of deleted scenes with insightful introductions. However, potential viewers should be wary of spoilers. This release also comes with a Movies Anywhere digital copy and special steelbook packaging available exclusively at Best Buy, albeit all extras are confined to the Blu-ray disc, maintaining a standard yet satisfactory array of content.
Extras included in this disc:
- Anatomy of a Scene: In-depth exploration of a key film sequence.
- Strange Science: Hosted discussion on biology within the film's universe.
- Creature Feature: Retro-style documentary on the movie's creatures.
- The Hidden Secrets of Strange World: Discovery of easter eggs and hidden details.
- Outtakes: A collection of humorous recording booth moments.
- Deleted Scenes: Four scenes providing additional context to the story.
Movie: 63
Strange World" emerges as a captivating amalgamation of innovative animation and science fiction, veering into uncharted territories with a flair that distinguishes it from its contemporaries. It meticulously crafts a narrative that intertwines the Clade family's exploratory zeal with a broader socio-environmental message, encapsulated within the visually stunning landscapes of Avalonia. The film ventures beyond mere aesthetics, embedding nuanced hints and layered character arcs that resonate through multiple viewings, each offering a fresh perspective on the unfolding sci-fi epic. Despite its homage to the classics, such as Jules Verne and Edgar Rice Burroughs, "Strange World" transcends these inspirations to deliver a uniquely modern adventure that captivates both visually and narratively.
The technical prowess of "Strange World" is undeniable, showcasing a meticulously designed universe brimming with creativity. From the vibrant flora and fauna to the intricate details of the Clade family's quests, every element is rendered with precision, enhancing the overall immersive experience. The voice cast delivers exceptionally, infusing the characters with depth and authenticity that bolster the film's emotional core. Jake Gyllenhaal's portrayal of Searcher Clade shines, supported by the talents of Dennis Quaid, Gabrielle Union, Jaboukie Young-White, and Lucy Liu, who breathe life into this animated world. The film's score further elevates the experience, weaving nostalgic echoes of classic sci-fi scores with original compositions that underscore the adventurous spirit of the narrative.
At its core, "Strange World" is a celebration of discovery, both external and internal, as it navigates through the complexities of familial bonds and societal advancements. While it occasionally stumbles in its attempt to weave humor into its fabric, these moments do not detract significantly from its overall merit. The film stands as a testament to the potential of animation to explore complex themes within enthralling new worlds. Its journey through the bizarre and unknown mirrors our own, reminding us of the enduring spirit of adventure and the importance of sustaining our world for future generations.
Total: 77
Strange World" offers a visually stunning and narratively engaging experience, but it may not entice viewers beyond a couple of watches. The consensus among reviewers is that the movie is bolstered by its inventive world design and commendable voice acting, delivering a story that is both intriguing and emotionally resonant. The film's exploration into vintage sci-fi motifs and its colorful, unique universe is widely praised, providing a fresh take on classic storytelling themes. However, its attempt at humor often misses the mark, detracting from the overall impact of its more serious, adventurous elements.
Disney's 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation of "Strange World" is acknowledged for its superb visual quality, primarily through an excellent HDR color palette and a detailed HDR10 transfer that elevates the viewing experience. The audio experience is similarly lauded, with a good Atmos soundtrack that complements the on-screen action. Yet, the bonus features are seen as somewhat lacking in depth, reflecting a broader trend in Disney's recent home media releases. Despite this, the availability of a collectible SteelBook edition adds a degree of appeal for collectors and fans.
In conclusion, "Strange World" stands out for its creative ambition and technical prowess in both animation and home media presentation. While its replay value may be limited and the comedic attempts fall flat, the film represents a worthwhile viewing experience for fans of animated adventures and sci-fi enthusiasts alike. The 4K UHD Blu-ray enhances this experience with high-quality video and audio, making it an attractive addition to a home collection, especially for those with a penchant for visually driven storytelling and immersive soundscapes. Whether it becomes a cult classic remains to be seen, but "Strange World" is certainly worth exploring for its artistic merits and technical achievements.
Blu-ray.com review by Martin LiebmanRead review here
Video: 100
The UHD offers a compelling spectrum of hues throughout Avalonia, especially in the abundance of reds and pinks, while outside abundant natural greens sparkle with a sense of liveliness and realism beyond...
Audio: 100
The track offers everything else in good order, including excellent surround extension to offer discrete effects with effective range and various examples of seamless stage traversal as well....
Extras: 80
Anatomy of a Scene (1080p, 23:20): A fascinating and comprehensive exploration of making one of the key, and most visually challenging, sequences in the film, which in turn reveals the arduous but rewarding...
Movie: 70
Sure, in retrospect, armed with an understanding of where the film goes one can see little bits of influence from other projects through time, but for the most part the film takes a pretty unique idea...
Total: 50
The film might not bear much replay value after a second watch to discover as many hints as possible, but many fans should be pleased with the overall experience a first and second time....
DoBlu review by Matt PaprockiRead review here
Video: 80
Rather routine at this stage in UHD’s life, Strange World displays great enthusiasm for color saturation, especially when it comes to the green Pando plants....
Audio: 80
This sounds compressed, albeit not to any debilitating degree, and better than a streaming counterpart....
Extras: 60
...
Movie: 80
Much as it’s about spectacle in this alien-like place, Strange World uses all of this imagery for a purposeful exploration of the family dynamic, showing the value in acceptance rather than distance....
Total: 75
...
High-Def Digest review by Matthew HartmanRead review here
Video: 90
The black levels are also greatly improved for some of the more dramatically lit moments later in the film that I’m not going to mention because it’s a lot of spoilers....
Audio: 80
It didn’t have the limpness I experienced with Wakanda Forever and actually gave the track a much more dynamic surround presence with some welcome object-specific height activity....
Extras: 40
Not sure why you’d watch extras for a movie you haven’t seen yet, but be warned they’re pretty spoiler heavy as they dive into the various workings behind the making of the film, biology of the world in...
Movie: 60
There are a couple of clunky parts, but overall it was a fine effort since it’s an aspect of the characters without it being their single reason for being in the film....
Total: 70
The story of a family trying to save their world is heartfelt, but the film’s need for forced silliness undercuts its best efforts....
Why So Blu? review by Brandon PetersRead review here
Video: 100
Depth: Depth of field is pretty strong and 3 dimensional here with good spacing, scale and pushback on display....
Audio: 80
Its well balanced between the score, vocals and effects, though some areas do fall flat in spots and its more Disney-ish in the mix quality than it is your “other studios normal” Atmos mix....
Extras: 50
Jaboukie Young-White is the host for a discussion about the science on display in the film and how it pertains to our world and its likelihood and realism....
Movie: 50
Henry Jackman has some obvious homages here, but its effective nonetheless, with the worst being a quick of nostalgia here or there....
Total: 70
Definitely might want to check this movie out on Disney+ before investing, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it pops up as a cult classic in years down the road....
Director: Don Hall, Qui Nguyen
Actors: Jake Gyllenhaal, Jaboukie Young-White, Gabrielle Union
PlotA family of legendary explorers, the Clades, are known for their adventurous spirit and groundbreaking expeditions. Searcher Clade, the son of the renowned explorer Jaeger Clade, has settled into a quiet life of farming, having discovered a plant called Pando that provides a renewable source of energy, crucial for their community's survival. His own son, Ethan, however, has inherited the family's thirst for exploration and longs for adventure. The family dynamic is strained, with Searcher's pragmatic approach clashing with Ethan's adventurous spirit, and the lingering shadow of Jaeger's disappearance on a perilous quest years earlier.
The Clades' lives are upended when they are called upon to embark on a mission to investigate a mysterious and uncharted land that poses a threat to their world’s energy supply. Alongside their three-legged dog, Legend, and a skilled pilot named Meridian Clade—who also happens to be Searcher's wife—this intergenerational trio sets out on a new journey. They must navigate their familial relationships while facing an array of fantastical creatures and unforeseen challenges in an environment unlike anything they've encountered before. As they push forward into the unknown, the Clades uncover secrets that could alter their understanding of nature and their family's legacy.
Writers: Qui Nguyen
Release Date: 23 Nov 2022
Runtime: 102 min
Rating: PG
Country: United States, Japan
Language: English