Prey 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Prey" makes a striking entrance into the 4K UHD Blu-ray arena, courtesy of Disney / Buena Vista and 20th Century Studios, with a picture quality that can only be described as a testament to modern filmmaking and home entertainment technology. Presented with an HEVC / H.265 encoded 2160p transfer and maintaining the film's original aspect ratio of 2.39:1, this release benefits from the full capabilities of HDR, bringing the film's already vivid palette to life with even greater depth and clarity. Shot using Arri Alexa cameras and finished at 4K, "Prey" defies expectations with its crisp imagery and nuanced colors, making it evident that this production leverages the technology to its utmost to present a visually stunning narrative that remains faithful to the Predator franchise's reputation for pushing boundaries.

The technical prowess of this release is evident in the rendering of spectacular vistas and the intricate detail observed in both practical effects and CGI elements. Particular attention has been paid to the film's dynamic use of color and contrast, with HDR enriching every scene—whether it's the natural lushness of earth tones or the intense glow of Predator technology and fire elements under the veil of night. Black levels are impressively deep and unyielding, providing a rich canvas that enhances the visual drama and tension inherent in the film's darker moments. The color grading is meticulous, from the natural tones dominating daytime scenes to the teal hues casting moonlit nights, contributing to a coherent visual style that's both pleasing and thematically appropriate.

With its native 4K presentation, "Prey" not only sets a high benchmark for visual fidelity but also serves as an exemplary showcase of how technological advancements in filming and post-production can enhance storytelling. The seamless integration of practical and computer-generated imagery, married with superior color reproduction and depth, ensures an immersive viewing experience. This release underscores the vitality of physical media in an age of streaming, affirming that for enthusiasts seeking the pinnacle of home cinema quality, this 4K UHD Blu-ray is a compelling testament to the format's unrivaled capacity to convey the filmmaker's vision with unparalleled clarity and detail.

The 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray release of "Prey" delivers an audio experience that engages with an exceptionally precise and immersive Dolby Atmos track, distinguishing itself from its DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 and previous streaming counterparts. While there's an acknowledgment of the somewhat comparable quality between the Atmos and DTS-HD tracks, the former elevates the soundscape through its intricate use of distinct spatial audio cues—most notably the Predator’s menacing movements and the environmental ambiance. The meticulously crafted soundstage leverages height channels effectively, portraying overhead threats like a bear attack with astonishing realism. The low frequency effects enrich the auditory experience further, with powerful bass underlining the Predator’s ship entry, attacks, and environmental hazards, providing a tight and impactful depth rarely achieved.

Dialogue remains crisply clear, whether in English or through the Comanche dub—though it's worth noting the latter is presented in a less optimal Dolby Digital 5.1 format, somewhat diminishing its potential authenticity and immersion. The orchestral score flows seamlessly through the room, leveraging the multi-channel setup to envelop the listener in the film's atmospherics, thereby enhancing the period-specific ambiance and tension-driven narrative.

However, it's not without its criticisms; the choice to limit the Comanche language track to Dolby Digital instead of Atmos is a missed opportunity for full immersion into the film's cultural depth. Despite this, "Prey" manages to deliver a robust auditory experience that is both engaging and dynamic, perfectly complementing its visual spectacle. Whether it’s the subtle nuances of nature, the distinct sounds of future weaponry, or the depth of action sequences, the audio presentation makes noteworthy use of Dolby Atmos technology to create a vividly rich and fully enveloping experience, albeit with a slight reservation for the Comanche dub’s audio treatment.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Prey" presents a modest yet significant selection of extras, with the highlight being an exclusive Comanche dub on the 4K disc, enriching the viewing experience by offering a more immersive and culturally authentic audio option. The bulk of the supplemental material, however, is housed on the Blu-ray disc. This includes a Making of "Prey" featurette that provides insightful interviews and footage, a comprehensive panel discussion with key cast and crew members, including a notable segment with Predator puppeteer Alec Gillis, and a selection of deleted scenes with optional commentary by director Dan Trachtenberg. The release is also noteworthy for its striking steelbook packaging, featuring visually arresting artwork and a Predator design that stands out in 2023's home media releases. One should note the potential issue with the Blu-ray disc's playability, which may require cleaning due to resin residue. Collectors and fans will appreciate the additional figurine advertisement insert, albeit the actual bonus features focus squarely on enriching the "Prey" lore and production insights.

Extras included in this disc:

• Comanche Dub on 4K Disc: A unique audio option that provides an authentic Comanche language track.
• Making of Prey: Brief insights with better than average interviews and backstage footage.
• Prey FYC Panel With Cast & Crew: An extensive panel featuring discussions with the director, cast members including Amber Midthunder, and crew such as Predator puppeteer Alec Gillis.
• Deleted Scenes with Commentary by Dan Trachtenberg: Offers detailed explanations for scenes not making it to the final cut.
• Audio Commentary: With director Dan Trachtenberg, Amber Midthunder, Jeff Cutter, and Angela M. Catanzaro providing in-depth insights into the film's production.

The movie section of the 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation of "Prey" captures a remarkable piece of storytelling, taking the Predator franchise to a uniquely fascinating era – the early 18th century within Comanche territories. This audacious setting serves as the perfect playground for an evolved narrative that stretches beyond the conventional boundaries established by its predecessors. "Prey" skillfully distills the essence of what made the original Predator captivating: the themes of survival, the encounter with the unknown, and a probing look into the warrior spirit. The film achieves this through the lens of Naru, a Comanche warrior portrayed by Amber Midthunder, whose character embodies determination and the relentless pursuit of proving her mettle in a male-dominated hierarchy. Midthunder’s performance is riveting, buttressed by minimal dialogues, allowing her physicality and expressive emotiveness to narrate the adversities and triumphs of her journey.

Visually, "Prey" is a cinematic marvel, courtesy of director Dan Trachtenberg and his adept use of breathtaking landscapes, which augment the storytelling to create an immersive experience. The choice to available the movie with a Comanche dub enhances its authenticity and engagement, setting a precedent for cultural respectfulness and depth. Additionally, the movie’s action sequences are meticulously choreographed to highlight Naru’s strategic prowess against an alien adversary equipped with advanced technology – reiterating the primal versus advanced theme that is central to the Predator lore. These sequences not only serve as thrilling entertainment but also as pillars for character development, showcasing Naru's transition from being underestimated to becoming a formidable force.

"Prey" stands as a pivotal addition to the franchise, taking bold strides in narrative and visual execution. It meticulously ties back to the franchise's roots while paving a new path that is both refreshing and reverential. In essence, the movie transcends being a mere prequel, venturing into a domain where it crafts its legacy – one that could potentially guide the future direction of the Predator series. Through its innovative set design, compelling lead performance by Midthunder, and Trachtenberg’s visionary direction, "Prey" emerges not just as an evolutionary step but as a revolutionary leap in storytelling within the Predator universe.

Prey" revitalizes the Predator franchise with a fresh perspective that connects back to the series' roots, melding historical backdrop with intense survival thriller elements to stand out. Available from 27th November in the UK, Disney's 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray release boasts native 4K HDR and Dolby Atmos audio, ensuring a visually stunning and immersive auditory experience. This edition is notably enhanced by the inclusion of a Comanche Dub, offering a unique and definitive viewing approach. Accompanied by a well-curated selection of extras, this release is not just an obligatory addition for franchise collectors but a must-have for enthusiasts keen on top-tier home cinema presentations.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation elevates "Prey" beyond its streaming availability on Disney Plus, offering superior technical quality that justifies its acquisition. The physical package, especially in its Steelbook form, adds tangible value, appealing to collectors and fans who prioritize optimal audiovisual fidelity. This release is a testament to Disney's commitment to delivering exceptional home entertainment experiences, presenting "Prey" in the best possible light with state-of-the-art picture and sound quality that enhances every moment of this thrilling installment.

In conclusion, "Prey" not only successfully breathes new life into the Predator franchise but also stands as an exemplary model of how 4K UHD Blu-ray can transcend standard streaming offerings. With its native 4K HDR, Dolby Atmos audio, and valuable extras, it presents an irresistible proposition for fans and newcomers alike. Whether you're a long-time follower of the franchise or have been waiting for the right entry point, "Prey" in its 4K UHD Blu-ray form is a compelling addition to any collection and a high watermark for home cinema enthusiasts seeking the pinnacle of movie-watching experience.