Harriet 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Universal's 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation of "Harriet" is a visually stunning upgrade from its already impressive 1080p counterpart. The 2160p image offers a notably brighter appearance which enhances viewing pleasure. Colors have a richer saturation, bringing a lush vibrancy to the natural landscape and the characters' attire. Details are meticulously rendered, from the loose threads in John’s jacket to the intricate textures of the women’s dresses, highlighting the film's attention to period authenticity. Blacks are profoundly deep with impeccable discernment in dark scenes, effortlessly maintaining clarity in Gideon’s tie and the reverend’s jacket. Even Harriet’s dream sequences benefit from this sharpness.

The 2.39:1 HEVC 4K format in particular showcases the costume design and architectural details with outstanding precision. The Philadelphia scenes exemplify this, providing a razor-like sharpness that is visually striking. Despite many scenes being set at night or in darker locations, the contrast remains rock-solid, making them easily navigable without any loss of image integrity. Flyaway hairs and facial particulars are consistently evident, contributing to an immersive viewing experience. Notably absent are the minor noise issues found in the 1080p version; instead, the transfer is remarkably clean and sumptuous.

Overall, the technical execution in this 4K UHD presentation of "Harriet" elevates the film’s visual storytelling, making it an exquisite viewing experience. The carefully calibrated color, contrast, and detail underscore the historical drama beautifully, ensuring that every frame is as impressive as it is immersive.

The audio presentation of the 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Harriet" is a notable step up from its Blu-ray counterpart, thanks to its incredibly immersive Dolby Atmos 7.1 audio track. The opening moments set the stage with music and environmental sounds that envelop the viewer, effectively transitioning into quieter, yet equally immersive scenes. The bird songs in a serene moment between Harriet and her husband, for instance, place the viewer directly within the environment. This nuanced sound design continues throughout the film, utilizing the full sound field to great effect. Surround speakers maintain consistent activity, enhancing various scenes—from bustling cityscapes to solemn funerals and Harriet's mystical visions—while keeping dialogue crystal-clear and perfectly prioritized.

Key audio elements are rendered with precise fidelity. Whether it’s the weighty thud of horse hooves or the sharp crack of gunshots, each sound effect contributes realistically to the overall experience. The Dolby Atmos track ensures a dynamic range that supports both boisterous and hushed moments effectively. The LFE channel gets a particular workout during “battle” sequences, adding depth without overemphasis. Music is treated with excellent precision and placement, blending seamlessly with the film's soundscape. This concerted effort results in one of the most active and immersive audio presentations available, further elevated by clear vocal tracks and directional sounds that abound. English SDH, French, and Spanish subtitles are also available, catering to a broad audience.

In summary, "Harriet" boasts an impressively immersive Dolby Atmos audio track that enhances the film's storytelling with meticulous sound engineering. The dynamic performance—from vivid environmental sounds to precise dialogue prioritization—makes this audio experience an outstanding aspect of the 4K UHD Blu-ray release.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Harriet" offers a robust collection of special features, identical to those from the 2020 Blu-ray. This comprehensive set of extras enriches viewers' understanding and appreciation of the film. It is disappointing that no new content is added, but the existing array still provides significant insights. The supplementary materials offer a deep dive into the making of the film, from detailed commentaries to behind-the-scenes features where cast and crew share their experiences.

Extras included in this disc:

• Deleted Scenes: Additional scenes that provide more context and depth.
• Her Story: Insights into the female-driven creative process behind "Harriet".
• Becoming Harriet: Discussions on Cynthia Erivo’s approach to portraying Harriet Tubman.
• Audio Commentary: Co-writer and Director Kasi Lemmons covers various elements of production, including historical accuracy and casting choices.

2019's "Harriet" makes its 4K UHD debut through Universal, depicting the remarkable journey of Harriet Tubman from her beginnings as a slave in Dorchester County, Maryland, to her pivotal role in the Underground Railroad. After a daring escape to Philadelphia, Tubman orchestrates the liberation of 70 slaves and serves commendably in the Civil War. The film involves gritty narratives and impactful performances, particularly from Cynthia Erivo, whose portrayal of Tubman is both stirring and compelling. Erivo's performance is indeed the linchpin of the film, elevating its historical drama and underlining the fierce resolve and undaunted spirit of Tubman.

Meeting pivotal figures such as William Still (Leslie Odom Jr.) and Marie Buchanon (Janelle Monáe), Tubman adopts the name Harriet and is driven by what she believes to be divine visions. The movie intensifies with the enactment of the Fugitive Slave Act, which exacerbates challenges faced by the abolitionists. This historical drama not only sheds light on Tubman's heroism but also contextualizes the broader resistance against slavery within poignant storytelling. While some liberties with historical accuracy are taken, the film delivers an inspirational narrative that resonates strongly.

Exhaustively featuring deleted scenes and commentary by Director Kasi Lemmons among other extras, this release adds significant value for viewers. The 4K UHD version ensures an immersive visual experience accentuating the detailed period settings and emotive cinematography. Overall, "Harriet" succeeds in both educating and inspiring, preserving its historical significance while engaging the audience with its heartfelt storytelling and technical excellence.

"Harriet" on 4K UHD Blu-ray offers a captivating and technically impressive experience, recounting the extraordinary journey of Harriet Tubman. The film's narrative on Tubman's escape from slavery and fearless mission to liberate others is well-handled, striking a balance between portraying historical horrors and maintaining accessibility. Notably, Cynthia Erivo's Oscar-nominated portrayal of Harriet Tubman anchors the film with a profound emotional gravitas. Her performance is poignant and powerful, ensuring that Tubman's indomitable spirit is palpable throughout.

Universal's 4K presentation is exceptional, boasting impeccable picture quality and a consistently immersive Dolby Atmos audio track. The visuals are crystal clear, with finely detailed textures and vibrant colors that elevate the storytelling. The sound design enhances the viewing experience, enveloping the audience in Tubman's world through meticulous audio craftsmanship. This technical excellence complements the film's sensitive treatment of its darker themes, without diluting their impactful significance.

Buoyed by technically superior production values and a remarkable lead performance, the "Harriet" Blu-ray also benefits from an array of supplemental content that delves deeper into the making and historical context of the film. These extras provide valuable insights, making this edition not just a visually pleasing experience but a comprehensive package for history enthusiasts and film collectors alike. Universal's release of "Harriet" unquestionably earns a strong recommendation.

Conclusion: Harriet is a beautifully shot and wonderfully acted film that recounts Harriet Tubman's flight to freedom and her relentless and fearless determination to liberate other slaves before and during the Civil War...