Project A 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

The 4K UHD Blu-Ray release of "Project A" features a robust HEVC/H.265 encoded 2160p transfer in a 2.39:1 aspect ratio, implemented by 88 Films. This presentation marks a significant enhancement over previous HD versions, particularly the subpar Mill Creek Blu-ray four-pack. With superior color timing, this release interprets hues with heightened accuracy, showcasing deep contrasts and vibrant primaries that elevate the viewing experience. Although Dolby Vision/HDR might not introduce dramatic new highlights, it effectively enhances the dimensionality and depth, lending the film a renewed richness without overwhelming brightness.

Despite utilizing a thick grain structure inherent to the original film stock, the 4K encode expertly manages to retain natural detail and sharpness without succumbing to digital artifacts. While some areas, notably the opening sequence, display a heavy grain reminiscent of crawling insects against light backgrounds, resolution improves notably in outdoor scenes. The meticulous attention to close-ups reveals impressive facial textures, while wide shots maintain precision and clarity, compensating somewhat for any deficiencies stemming from the softer original cinematography. The improved black levels, although occasionally exhibiting some crush, are among the best in Hong Kong martial arts cinema imports.

This 4K transition is seen as a superior visual upgrade, rivaled perhaps only by select transitions such as "Tremors." The presentation not only serves as an upgrade but virtually redefines "Project A" for contemporary audiences, bringing out the intricate costume and set details, enhancing warm flesh tones, and offering an engaging visual experience that revitalizes this classic Jackie Chan film. This release establishes itself as a significant reference point for future restorations within the genre.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation of "Project A" offers a variety of audio formats, including Cantonese and Mandarin Dolby Atmos tracks alongside DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Mono options for both languages and an English dub. While synchronization issues persist across all languages, the effort put into creating an immersive soundstage is evident. Notably, the Atmos mixes, though not exemplary in terms of overhead activity, successfully render an enveloping sound experience by skillfully utilizing side and rear channels during action sequences. However, the sound remains predominantly anchored in the front channels. Among the available options, the Cantonese track delivers the most potent presentation, with particular emphasis on the mono track's substantial loudness.

The Dolby Atmos audio presentation is intriguingly crafted, conveying a nuanced soundstage reminiscent of its original mono source. It achieves this through subtle effects like a beer glass sliding across the front-to-back stereos and more dynamic rear-channel engagement in action sequences. Although the Atmos track slightly lacks in fidelity and clarity, it successfully compensates with a robust LFE impact, enhancing musical scores and accentuating scenes that demand an immersive experience. While this mix might feel similar to a 5.1 setup at times, it excels in providing a stable balance that enriches the overall auditory engagement.

Overall, while some technical limitations exist, particularly in sync and overhead effects, the audio options on this release are diverse and cleverly designed to boost engagement and nostalgia. Regardless of your preferred language track, expect a thoughtful recreation of "Project A"’s auditory experience that emphasizes action-driven sequences while keeping the spirit of the original intact. Optional English subtitles are available to further aid in understanding and enjoyment.

The 4K UHD Blu Ray of "Project A" offers a comprehensive and engaging array of extras tailored for both casual fans and cinephiles. Notably, it includes two versions of the film: the Hong Kong and Extended Editions, both available in stunning 4K resolution. Frank Djeng and FJ DeSanto's insightful commentaries enrich the viewing experience, providing historical context and behind-the-scenes insights. The disc offers interviews with notable figures like stunt legend Mars Cheung, Grandmaster Lee Hoi-san, and actor Yuen Biao, adding depth to the film's narrative and production complexities. Additional features such as outtakes, an alternate Japanese version ending, and a well-curated stills gallery supplement the rich content, making this edition indispensable for collectors.

Extras included in this disc:

• Lunar Year Introduction: Intro by Jackie Chan, subtitled in English.
• Dancing with Danger: Interview with stuntman Mars Cheung.
• Master Killer: Interview with grandmaster Lee Hoi-san.
• The Elusive Dragon: Interview with Yuen Biao.
• The Pirates Den: Interview with Dick Wei.
• Can't Stop the Music: Interview with composer Michael Lai.
• Project Collector with Paul Dre: Tour of a collector's collection.
• Plan B - Writer Edward Tang on Project A: Insights from writer Edward Tang.
• Outtakes: Entertaining cut scenes.
• Japanese Version Ending: Alternate ending from the Japanese release.
• The Making of Project A: Silent candid footage set to the soundtrack.
• Hong Kong Trailer: Original local trailer.
• English Trailer: International trailer.
• Stills Gallery: Collection of stills from the film.

"Project A" stands as a cinematic milestone, melding Jackie Chan's signature style of blending audacious stunts with buoyant comedy. This 4K UHD Blu-ray release allows viewers to appreciate Chan's unique vision, which began to crystallize with this film. Not yet the powerhouse he is known today, "Project A" highlights Chan's innovative approach to martial arts cinema, prioritizing lively sequences like bar brawls and bike fights over traditional kung fu action. The film’s success is emblematic of Chan's intuition on screen presentation, with his performance balancing slapstick comedy and earnestness, particularly in scenes critiquing British authority. This release, part of The Project A Collection 4K from 88 Films, captures these elements in stunning detail.

The narrative of "Project A" transcends typical martial arts storylines by injecting historical intrigue and subtle satire concerning British governance in Hong Kong. The script shuns simple revenge plots, opting for a layered turn-of-the-century story entailing corruption and piracy. Chan's mastery of tone allows him to convincingly weave between comedic antics and serious policing, shown vividly in scenes where he oscillates from exaggerated antics in a bar brawl to fervent rebukes of British officials. This film is peppered with unforgettable moments that remain endlessly entertaining upon repeat views.

Technically, the film shines with its breathtaking sequences, notably Chan's homage to Harold Lloyd in a perilous clock tower stunt, performed three times due to its high-risk nature. Each take included in the final cut showcases Chan’s remarkable stunt work, underlining his dedication and physical prowess. The meticulous restoration for this 4K release enhances these iconic scenes, granting them an unmatched clarity that elevates the viewer’s experience. "Project A" is a testament to Chan's transformative impact on the martial arts genre, captured brilliantly in this UHD format.

"Project A" is an exhilarating showcase of Jackie Chan's ingenuity and physical prowess, embodying peak action cinema with its inventive setpieces and gripping fight sequences. This 4K UHD Blu-ray release capitalizes effectively on the enhancements a higher resolution offers, building upon the strengths of the previous 1080p release by 88 Films. Notably, the color palette sees a significant improvement with bolder and more vibrant colors that enhance the viewing experience. However, it retains a heavy grain in parts, which collectors or purists might prefer, though some viewers may opt for the smoother texture of the included 1080p discs.

The disc's technical craftsmanship is sure-footed, presenting a well-balanced audiovisual treat that complements Chan’s kinetic energy on screen. The supplemental materials included on disc provide valuable context and are engaging, offering deeper insights into the making of this classic. Additionally, for collectors and enthusiasts, the package contains appealing non-disc memorabilia, enhancing its allure and collecting value.

In conclusion, this 4K UHD edition of "Project A" is an impressive upgrade that reinforces the film's status as a pivotal entry in Jackie Chan's oeuvre. The technical enhancements underscore its timeless appeal and offer fans both new and old an enriched cinematic experience. Given the quality of the transfer and the value-added extras, this release comes highly recommended for aficionados of martial arts cinema and film collectors alike.