Narrow Margin 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Kino Lorber's 4K UHD Blu-ray release of Narrow Margin delivers a commendable video presentation despite the notable absence of Dolby Vision or any HDR grade. Anchored by a 4K scan of the Original Camera Negative, this release boasts a visually pleasing representation, with solid black levels rendering suspenseful shadow sequences effectively. While the lack of HDR might deter some, the color palette remains vibrant and authentic, particularly in skin tones and exterior shots. Variable detail clarity—likely attributable to source limitations—doesn’t detract from the overall experience, with close-ups and train interior shots frequently impressing.

The 4K presentation, encoded on a 100 GB disc with data rates between 80-100Mbps, ensures an uncompressed viewing experience that refines facial details, clothing textures, and tight confined spaces onboard the train. Film grain appears more natural and less noisy, maintaining a genuine filmic texture without unnecessary smoothing. Although the absence of HDR might seem like a missed opportunity for some fans, the SDR presentation stands out with excellent image stability and no distracting age-related imperfections.

Overall, this release, devoid of HDR, still performs excellently on larger screens, offering increased image depth and fine nuances in darker areas. While it may not be an essential upgrade for those content with the previous Blu-ray edition, which remains impressive, first-time buyers will find this 4K disc a delightful enhancement that brings Narrow Margin to its best visual presentation yet.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Narrow Margin" offers robust audio tracks, specifically a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0, catering to different listener preferences. The default 5.1 track delivers a more immersive experience by expanding the surround action, while the 2.0 track provides tighter dialogue articulation. Dialogue is consistently clear across both tracks, especially well-rendered in the frontal channels, ensuring that even Gene Hackman's sharp quips come through splendidly.

The action sequences benefit from focused highlights; gunshots and the helicopter shootout gain significant LFE enhancement on the 5.1 track, adding depth to explosive moments. However, immersion varies; while the 5.1 track opens up surround activity, its application is more atmospheric than dynamic during scenes inside the train. Effects are efficiently managed, sustaining a continuous undercurrent from the train's rumble and adding to the environmental authenticity.

Both audio tracks uphold high clarity and balance without any source issues, maintaining rich and resonant scoring by Bruce Broughton that adds tension and complements the overall soundscape. With optional English SDH subtitles available, this audio presentation ensures that viewers can enjoy "Narrow Margin" with a finely tuned auditory backdrop, regardless of their preferred track.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Narrow Margin," released by Kino Lorber, retains all the features from their previous 2020 Blu-ray release, offering an enriching suite of extras. Noteworthy are the two audio commentaries, particularly the one by writer/director Peter Hyams, who delves into the film's technical details, including the use of Panavision Panaflex Gold II and Arriflex 35-III cameras, and overcoming challenges such as Gene Hackman's knee injury. Critic Peter Tonguette also provides a fascinating analysis of the film's visual and stylistic elements. Complementing these insightful commentaries are a vintage featurette, selected sound bites, b-roll footage, and several trailers. Collectively, these provide a comprehensive behind-the-scenes look at the making of this classic thriller.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary with Peter Hyams: Detailed insights on the film’s conception and technical aspects.
• Audio Commentary with Peter Tonguette: Analytical perspective on the visual and stylistic elements.
• Featurette: Vintage EPK with archival interviews.
• Selected Sound Bites: Archival interview clips.
• B-Roll Footage: Behind-the-scenes shooting on a moving train.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original trailer.
• Prime Cut Trailer
• The Package Trailer
• Company Business Trailer

Peter Hyams' "Narrow Margin" (1990) masterfully rejuvenates Richard Fleischer's 1952 classic, delivering a taut thriller that maintains its grip on the viewer throughout its 97-minute runtime. Hyams, known for his work on films like 2010 and Timecop, skillfully orchestrates tension within the confined space of a train, utilizing a limited amount of exterior footage. Gene Hackman’s portrayal of Deputy District Attorney Robert Caulfield is compelling; his unarmed, everyman hero outwits a cadre of armed assassins with sheer intelligence. Anne Archer’s performance as the reluctant witness Carol Hunnicut complements Hackman's role splendidly, adding depth to the narrative.

The film's suspense is meticulously constructed, avoiding repetitive scenarios and instead opting for fresh, unpredictable twists at every turn. Hyams cleverly manipulates light and shadow to create a neo-noir atmosphere while leveraging panoramic vistas of the Canadian Rockies and dynamic camera movements during action sequences. This keeps the high-stakes drama visually arresting. Despite some jarring moments of light humor that somewhat detract from the film's gritty tension, "Narrow Margin" remains a captivating ride, echoing classic thrillers in its execution.

The storyline effectively updates the original's premise, blending elements of neo-noir with modern thriller dynamics. Hyams’ alterations to the script introduce fresh characterizations and relationships, enhancing the suspense while maintaining a relentless tempo. From intense confrontations to cunning strategy, each scene builds upon the last, culminating in a thrilling cat-and-mouse game onboard the train. This release of "Narrow Margin" benefits from an excellent transfer sourced from a 4K master by StudioCanal, ensuring the film looks as fresh today as it did at its release, solidifying its place as an engaging entry in the thriller genre.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Narrow Margin" from Kino Lorber Studio Classics is a commendable upgrade. Featuring a native 4K presentation of StudioCanal's recent 4K restoration, the film retains its visual allure even without Dolby Vision or HDR grading. Despite the absence of the wider color gamut available in rec.2020 presentations, the 4K visuals are still impressive enough to satisfy fans. The film's native 4K transfer delivers a cleaner and more detailed picture, underscoring the film's scenic beauty and maintaining an engaging visual experience.

The audio options provided are solid, though they remain unchanged from the previous Blu-ray release. The standout feature in terms of extras is the director's commentary, which adds depth to the viewing experience. Hackman and Archer's chemistry, combined with Sikking’s chilling portrayal of the assassin, ensures this thriller keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Although some may criticize the light humor in its second half, preferring a darker and grittier tone, the film remains hugely entertaining.

In conclusion, "Narrow Margin" is an underappreciated gem in Gene Hackman's filmography that benefits significantly from this 4K release. With no UK release on the horizon, fans of the film should not hesitate to purchase this edition. The lack of HDR is a minor grievance in light of the film's overall presentation quality. This release is highly recommended, especially for first-time buyers and aficionados of 90s thrillers set on trains. For fans who already own the 2020 Blu-ray, the improvements may be modest, but the 4K upgrade still offers a notable enhancement.