The Killing 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

The Killing, Stanley Kubrick's early masterpiece, receives a stunning 4K UHD makeover from Kino Lorber, presented in an aspect ratio of 1.67:1 with HEVC / H.265 encoding. This 4K release excels notably in its dynamic range, owing to the HDR and Dolby Vision grading, which significantly enhances visual depth through improved contrast and shadow detail. The transition from SDR to HDR not only presents a more appealing range of darker nuances but also maintains a superior organic appearance throughout, especially evident in scenes bustling with movement. The film, originally shot on 35 mm black-and-white film using Arriflex S and Mitchell BCR cameras, gains an added layer of crispness and refinement in 4K, despite the original camera negative offering limited room for extracting additional detail.

The meticulous 4K scan of the original negative clocked at 2160p/HEVC H.265 with Dolby Vision HDR flaunts exceptional contrast, clarity, and shadow delineation, preserving the film’s natural grain structure and thus ensuring a true cinematic experience. The nuance in grayscale achieves impeccable balance, elevating the visual storytelling with its lucid depiction of textures, subtle facial expressions, and the atmospheric noir elements such as filtered light and shadow patterns. While digital noise remains minimal and unobtrusive, the image's cleanliness and absence of compression artifacts emphasize the care taken in this transfer. The robust encoding allows the moderately heavy grain to contribute positively to the film's aesthetic without detracting from its clarity.

The enhancements brought by HDR imply richer and deeper black levels and more nuanced gradations between dark and light scenes. These improvements not only define Kubrick's visual style with sharper clarity but also contribute to an authentic representation of Lucien Ballard’s original cinematography. Noteworthy are the vivid details in close-ups and the impeccably clean print, devoid of any significant damage or blemishes, making this 4K UHD rendition of The Killing an essential acquisition for fans and collectors alike. The most discernible upgrade comes from the contrast and depth afforded by the Dolby Vision/HDR grading, which solidifies this version as the definitive presentation of The Killing on home video – a testament to Kubrick's meticulous craftsmanship and a treasure trove for cinema enthusiasts.

The Killing's 4K UHD Blu-ray release presents its auditory experience through an English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono track, paired with optional English subtitles for accessibility. This singular audio setup, though maintaining a retro charm, exhibits a range of technical nuances and minute imperfections characteristic of its age. The dialogue delivery across the board is commendably clear, facilitating an easy narrative follow-through. Nevertheless, the track is not without its flaws; instances of light hiss and occasional crackling subtly intrude the soundscape, particularly noticeable at higher volumes. Despite these minor anomalies, the audio track sustains an overall dynamic intensity without becoming distracting to the listener.

Gerald Fried's score—echoing through the decades with a bombastic yet weighted presence—plays a pivotal role in enhancing the film’s atmospheric tension. Though the audio might lend a slightly harsh edge to dialogues due to some sibilance, this does not significantly detract from the clarity or impact of the spoken word. The transition from the 2011 Criterion Blu-ray's LPCM mono track to the current DTS-HD Master Audio format has evidently improved the fidelity and depth of tone. Auditory elements from the environment, such as the racing of horse hooves, ambient noises at various bustling locations, and the distinctive jazz undertones during more intimate scenes, are articulated with a commendable brightness and nuance.

The detailed sonics of action sequences—comprising gunshots, physical altercations, and the mechanical roar of engines—are distinct and impactful, showcasing the track’s broad dynamic range. Although occasional surface noise can be discerned during quieter moments, these are largely overshadowed by the track’s adept handling of both high and low frequencies without any distortion. Dialogues are predominantly crisp and understandable, except for moments featuring heavily accented speech. In essence, while this audio presentation of The Killing may have its slight imperfections, it significantly contributes to the film's immersive viewing experience, effectively capturing its moody essence and period-specific ambiance.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "The Killing" comes equipped with a select but enriching array of extras that complement this Stanley Kubrick classic. Foremost among them is the comprehensive audio commentary by author and film historian Alan K. Rode, whose insight into Kubrick's methods, style, and filmography is both enlightening and deeply engrossing. Rode delves into the film's production background, the differences between the novel and its cinematic adaptation, and offers biographical tidbits on the cast and crew, demonstrating a profound affection for the material. Additionally, the disc features a set of 4K trailers, including a vintage theatrical trailer for "The Killing" itself alongside trailers for "Killer's Kiss" and "Paths of Glory," all enhanced with Dolby Vision. It’s worth noting the absence of supplements from the 2011 Criterion Blu-ray release, making it essential for completists to retain that edition. The reversible cover, featuring vintage poster art, aesthetically complements this limited but compelling extras package, underscoring the release's appeal to Kubrick aficionados and film noir enthusiasts alike.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Engaging and informative, delivered by Alan K. Rode who covers everything from Kubrick's background to detailed film analysis.
• Theatrical Trailers (UHD): Includes 4K UHD trailers for "The Killing," "Killer's Kiss," and "Paths of Glory," all with Dolby Vision.
• Reversible Cover: Features vintage poster art for aesthetic collectors' appeal.

Stanley Kubrick's seminal heist film, "The Killing" (1956), has been meticulously restored and presented in a stunning 4K UHD Blu-ray edition by Kino Lorber, showcasing its enduring impact on the genre. With an exclusive new audio commentary by film noir authority Alan K. Rode and a vintage trailer included among its supplemental features, the release invites both long-time admirers and new viewers to delve deeper into its intricacies. Notably, this Region-Free package ensures a broad accessibility, further underlining the film's historic and cinematic significance.

"The Killing" unfolds with a non-linear narrative, intelligently crafted by Kubrick and enriched by Jim Thompson's sharp dialogue, encapsulating a meticulously planned racetrack robbery led by Johnny Clay (Sterling Hayden). Despite the apparent foolproof nature of their scheme, the dynamics within the group—a composite of desperate individuals each driven by their own motives and flaws—begin unraveling even before the heist can reach its climax. What sets this work apart is not just its plot or Kubrick's directorial prowess, but also its profound character studies, brought to life through stellar performances and Kubrick's relentless quest for authenticity.

Kubrick's film emerges not only as a milestone in heist cinema but also as a pivotal moment in his own filmmaking journey, distinguishing itself through its sophisticated structure, compelling storytelling, and deep character exploration. This presentation in 4K UHD accentuates the film’s atmospheric cinematography and detailed set design, offering a visceral viewing experience that honors Kubrick's meticulous attention to detail and his thematic preoccupations with fate, greed, and the flawed nature of humanity. As such, "The Killing" remains not only a masterclass in film noir but a testament to Kubrick's evolving directorial vision, marking its indelible influence on subsequent generations of filmmakers and solidifying its status as a cornerstone of cinematic artistry.

Stanley Kubrick's "The Killing" emerges as a pivotal classic in the noir genre, not merely for its groundbreaking narrative structure but also for its remarkable execution both in front of and behind the camera. This film stands out as a prime example of efficient storytelling, where every character, led by the formidable Sterling Hayden, plays an indispensable role in weaving an intricate tapestry of plot and intrigue. The 4K UHD Blu-ray release by Kino Lorber elevates this already sterling presentation, with a new 4K remaster struck from the original camera negative. The addition of Dolby Vision HDR enhances the visual experience, throwing into sharp relief the atmospheric depth of the film's meticulously framed shots. Audiophiles will appreciate the exclusive new audio commentary by film noir expert Alan K. Rode, providing invaluable insights into this cinematic treasure.

The Killing's influence on contemporary cinema is undeniable, with its narrative echoes resounding through the work of celebrated directors like Quentin Tarantino. It is a testament to Kubrick's mastery and foresight that the film remains a critical reference point for filmmakers and enthusiasts alike. The technical prowess displayed in the 4K UHD release ensures that aficionados and new viewers can experience the film's brilliance with unparalleled clarity and depth. The stellar cast’s performances are given new life in this format, showcasing their collective contribution to the film's enduring legacy.

In conclusion, Kino Lorber’s 4K UHD Blu-ray of "The Killing" is an exemplary release, serving both as a definitive edition for collectors and an accessible entry point for those new to Kubrick's oeuvre. Its flawless technical presentation pairs with its historical significance to offer a viewing experience that is both immersive and enlightening. For those who cherish cinema history or aspire to understand the craft of storytelling through film, this release is not just recommended; it is essential.