Internal Affairs 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Kino Lorber's release of "Internal Affairs" on 4K UHD Blu-ray delivers a noteworthy visual presentation, sourced meticulously from original camera negatives at Paramount. This release includes a two-disc set, offering both a 4K disc and a remastered Blu-ray, with the 4K disc being region-free, ensuring broad accessibility. The 4K content features Dolby Vision and HDR grading, elevating the viewing experience with an expanded color gamut and dynamic range that vividly breathes new life into the film. The transition between darker and lighter scenes is seamless, and the native 4K presentation truly stands out for its delineation, clarity, and consistency, presenting an organic and immersive spectacle. Despite minor instances of grain, compliance with a natural filmic aesthetic is robustly preserved.

Moreover, the video transfer showcases uniformly high performance on both the 4K and 1080p Blu-ray formats. While the native 4K offers an enhanced color spectrum and nuanced details that aficionados will admire, the 1080p transfer holds its ground impressively as well. Offering excellent clarity and image stability, the visual fidelity remains formidable in both formats. The aspect ratio of 1.85:1 on the Blu-ray complements the overall experience, rendering a visually coherent presentation that appeals to both purists and casual viewers alike. In sum, Kino Lorber ensures a visually stunning presentation of "Internal Affairs," making it a commendable addition to any collection.

The 4K UHD Blu-Ray release of "Internal Affairs" offers robust audio quality, primarily delivered through two standard tracks: English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0, both supplemented by optional English SDH subtitles. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track is particularly noteworthy, accentuated by its crispness and clarity. Dialogue exchanges are sharp and precise, ensuring ease of comprehension without any indications of age-related sonic degradation. The music leverages rich tonalities to provide dynamic contrasts, seamlessly enhancing the auditory experience. Remarkably, the upper register maintains a solid presence that suggests a recent remixing effort, despite the original production date.

In action sequences, the DTS-HD track performs impressively, bringing rear channels into play and enhancing spatial effects that envelop viewers in a fully immersive soundscape. The enhancement of vocal clarity throughout ensures a refined listening experience, with the audio mixing delivering exceptional depth and the expected dynamic range from high-definition formats. Overall, enthusiasts seeking high-quality audio will find this presentation satisfying and well-executed, providing a polished auditory accompaniment that aligns with the visual excellence anticipated from a 4K UHD release.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Internal Affairs" offers a comprehensive array of extras that provide valuable insights into the film's creation and legacy. The archival audio commentary by critics Alain Silver and James Ursini is particularly enlightening, offering detailed deconstruction and exploring character transformations, while subtly examining the film's homage to classic noir. Mike Figgis' program, "The Clever and the Corrupt," is a thorough reflection on his directorial approach and casting decisions, adding depth to the viewer's understanding of the film's aesthetics and reception. Henry Bean's "His Most Dangerous Weapon" provides an intriguing perspective on the screenplay’s evolution, highlighting casting dynamics involving Andy Garcia. Composer Anthony Marinelli's contribution in "One Bad Cop" gives an informative glimpse into the film's musical score. The selection of deleted scenes and the alternate ending enriches the viewer’s comprehension of the film’s narrative structure, despite variable footage quality.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Critic insight into film deconstruction and character analysis.
• The Clever and the Corrupt: Mike Figgis discusses directorial choices and casting.
• His Most Dangerous Weapon: Screenwriter Henry Bean on screenplay origins.
• One Bad Cop: Composer Anthony Marinelli on creating the film’s score.
• Extended and Deleted Scenes: Various scenes cut from the final film.
• Alternate Ending: Different conclusion to the narrative.
• Trailer: Vintage promotional material for the film.

Kino Lorber's 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Internal Affairs" provides an exceptional opportunity to revisit Mike Figgis' intriguing cop thriller. The narrative follows Dennis Peck (Richard Gere), a morally bankrupt cop who is embroiled in corruption, and Raymond Avilla (Andy Garcia), the Internal Affairs detective tasked with uncovering the truth. As Peck transitions from crooked cop to desperate criminal, audiences are drawn into a tension-filled world where lines between right and wrong blur. The film's strength lies not only in its engaging, character-driven storytelling but also in the power play between its leads. Gere's portrayal of a corrupt law enforcer deftly meets Garcia's rigid determination, creating a dynamic interplay that is both electrifying and unpredictable.

"Internal Affairs" leverages its narrative complexity to explore multilayered character dynamics rather than relying on typical action sequences. The absence of standard shootouts enhances the dramatic tension, allowing for more sophisticated character development. Through Figgis' direction, the palpable animosity between Gere and Garcia's characters impels the viewer towards an emotional investment. Their intense on-screen chemistry is stress-induced yet compelling, emblematic of the broader thematic conflict unfolding throughout the film. This focus on character depth contributes to the film’s enduring relevance in the noirish cop thriller genre of the late 80s and early 90s.

While "Internal Affairs" delivers a familiar story arc typical of crime dramas, it stands out due to the sheer intensity of its protagonists' interactions. However, some viewers may notice instances where Figgis struggles to balance these tensions, creating scenes that occasionally lack cohesion. Despite this, the narrative maintains its allure, reinforced by insightful bonus features which enrich the viewing experience. Ultimately, "Internal Affairs" exemplifies a period-piece richness that delights fans keen on revisiting cop thrillers synonymous with early 90s cinema.

Kino Lorber's two-disc 4K UHD Blu-ray release of Internal Affairs offers a compelling revisit to a film that combines sharp narrative and compelling performances. The restoration, undertaken at Paramount Pictures, breathes new life into the visuals, providing stunning clarity and depth, enhancing the noir atmosphere of Los Angeles. This high-definition presentation amplifies the film’s gritty realism, ensuring that each scene delivers the intended visceral impact.

Richard Gere and Andy Garcia deliver intense performances, crafting a palpable tension that punctuates every encounter. The dynamic between Gere’s manipulative lieutenant and Garcia’s principled internal affairs officer sustains the film’s narrative momentum, making every dialogue exchange fraught with genuine animosity. This adaptation allows for a character-focused story, prioritizing psychological tension over action sequences, which enhances its authenticity and viewer engagement.

Further enriching this set are significant supplements that offer insightful perspectives on the film’s production and thematic exploration. This release successfully balances technical excellence with narrative depth, significantly enhancing the viewing experience.

In conclusion, the decision not to cast Kurt Russell was pivotal, steering the film towards authentic adversarial dynamics between Gere and Garcia, an essential element of its appeal. Internal Affairs remains a compelling study of corruption and morality, invigorated by its superb 4K restoration. Kino Lorber's release is a must-have for collectors and a definitive way to experience the film. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.