Hush 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review
Score: 91
from 3 reviewers
Review Date:
Hush is a masterfully minimalistic thriller with an outstanding 4K UHD presentation, showcasing excellent visuals, Dolby Atmos sound, and compelling bonus features.
Disc Release Date
Video: 93
The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Hush," supervised by Mike Flanagan, delivers a stunning visual experience with a 2160p transfer and Dolby Vision, showcasing sharp details, deep blacks, and a muted color palette. The addition of the Shush cut, a black-and-white version, further elevates the film's tension and sensory impact.
Audio: 96
The 4K UHD Blu-ray of 'Hush' offers an immersive audio experience with Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD 5.1, and 2.0 tracks. The Dolby Atmos track is a standout, enhancing the film's tension with precise sound design and dynamic height channels, while the 'Shush Cut' elevates sound effects to a visceral level, making the audio as compelling as the visuals.
Extra: 87
The 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Hush" is an exemplary collector's edition, offering extensive and engaging extras such as three commentary tracks, a Picture-In-Picture video commentary, and in-depth interviews with the cast and crew exploring the film’s themes, production anecdotes, and technical insights, making it an essential for fans.
Movie: 77
Hush delivers an intense, atmospheric tension through Mike Flanagan's masterful use of silence, crafting a taut home-invasion thriller that redefines horror with its simplicity and the chilling absence of sound, all underscored by Kate Siegel's commanding performance that anchors this tale of survival.
Video: 93
The 4K UHD Blu-Ray release of "Hush," directed by Mike Flanagan, represents a masterclass in how a film can be visually elevated through meticulous technical enhancement. The 2160p HEVC/H.265 transfer, expertly supervised by Flanagan himself, is a testament to the meticulous care taken in capturing the film's nuanced aesthetic through Dolby Vision and HDR10. Despite the film’s roots in digital realism, it leverages the vibrant possibilities of the 4K format with a sharpness that captures every minute detail. The sepia-toned warmth of the initial daylight scenes shifts naturally to the cold, blue hues of its nocturnal suspense, reflecting the film's theme of light versus shadow.
The rendering of black levels is particularly noteworthy, with deep, inky blacks that avoid any hint of crush, pivotal in maintaining the film's tense atmosphere in scenes of near-absolute darkness. The muted color palette—dominated by greys, blacks, and rich blues—is elegantly reproduced, enriching the narrative’s sense of solitude and dread without extraneous visual noise or artifacts. Each frame is a detailed tapestry where Maddie's expressions and her visceral struggles are relayed with pristine clarity, emphasizing every emotion and plot twist.
In addition to its full-color presentation, the "Shush" cut of "Hush" transforms the viewing experience into a monochromatic exploration of sensory deprivation. This black and white version heightens the film’s already tense elements by stripping away sound and color, offering viewers an alternate psychological intensity that mirrors the protagonist's silent world. This choice provides a nostalgic nod to classic horror while maintaining meticulous detail through striking white contrasts against profound black voids. This unique perspective enriches "Hush" with an increased emotional depth and offers a fresh narrative intensity for both new viewers and Flanagan's longtime fans.
Audio: 96
The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Hush" excels in delivering an audio experience that transforms the concept of sound in home theater. Featuring English Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD MA 5.1, and DTS-HD MA 2.0 mixes, the audio presentation is a testament to immersive design. The Dolby Atmos track, in particular, stands out by enhancing the film’s intrinsic tension. It transforms every creak and crackle into potent elements that escalate the narrative’s intensity. The subtle yet striking use of height channels vividly brings alive the environment, from rustling leaves to whispers of wind, creating an immediate connection to nature as an integral film character.
In addition to the masterful atmospheric design, the sound mix provides a dynamic and compelling auditory journey. The packaging omits mention of the Dolby Atmos mixes, yet they redefine the film's soundscape, particularly in the original cut with its bold score and alternative “Shush Cut.” This alternative experience eschews music to thrust sound effects into prominence, making every movement resonate with visceral impact. The sound dynamics are varied and engaging, akin to an ASMR exercise, while the low-frequency extension punctuates key moments—like Maddie’s silent POV scenes—with potent bass. Surround channels envelop viewers in Maddie’s world, integrating them seamlessly into her tense narrative.
Crucially, dialogue reproduction is impeccable despite the sparse use of spoken words. Dialogue is crisp and easily decipherable, underscoring the audio's precision where silence is as narratively significant as sound. Altogether, this audio presentation not only complements but enhances the film’s suspenseful ethos. It’s a meticulously crafted soundscape that pushes technical boundaries while remaining true to the film’s chilling core, offering a richly textured auditory adventure that aligns with the high-definition visual experience.
Extras: 87
The 4K UHD Blu Ray of "Hush" offers a comprehensive package of extras that enrich the viewer's understanding of the film's creation and impact. The interviews, totaling approximately 115 minutes, are insightful and engaging, featuring discussions with key cast and crew members like Kate Siegel, Mike Flanagan, and others. Furthermore, they delve into themes, inspirations, and film comparisons with classics such as "Halloween." The release also boasts three commentary tracks, including a video commentary that provides an immersive experience by displaying the commentators on screen. These tracks explore narratives, set anecdotes, and behind-the-scenes details. Shout Studios has curated an impressive collection, highlighting the significance of physical media in an era of digital dominance.
Extras included in this disc:
- Audio Commentary #1: Track with Kate Siegel, Mike Flanagan, and cast discussing film anecdotes.
- Audio Commentary #2: Picture-In-Picture video commentary with actors and director.
- Audio Commentary #3: The "Shush Cut" commentary exploring film version differences.
- Shush Cut Intro: Introduction to the "Shush Cut" version by creators.
- The Dance Macabre: Interview with Mike Flanagan on film's tone and themes.
- To Stand Alone: Kate Siegel discusses her role and film inspiration.
- The Constant Reader: Samantha Sloyan talks about her role and filming.
- The Shape of Silence: John Gallagher discusses his character development.
- Silent Witness: Michael Trucco on acting and character insights.
- One Good Scare: Trevor Macy shares production stories.
- Violent Strains: Composers discuss film scoring challenges.
- One Terrible Night: Director of Photography talks about lighting and location shoot challenges.
Movie: 77
Mike Flanagan’s "Hush" stands as a formidable addition to the home-invasion thriller genre, showcasing his prowess in creating tension and suspense. The film is centered around Maddie Young (Kate Siegel), a deaf-mute writer living in isolation, whose tranquil life is shattered by a relentless, masked killer. Flanagan distinguishes the film by using silence not just thematically but as a dynamic horror element, amplifying tension through Maddie’s sensory deprivation. This near-total silence, only disrupted by subtle ambient sounds, transforms every moment into a suspenseful experience where even the faintest noise becomes a potential threat. The simplicity of the premise allows for a concentrated exploration of survival instincts amidst an ever-escalating game of predator versus prey.
Hush excels in its minimalist storytelling, running a taut 81 minutes that deliver both intense suspense and a rich emotional core. As Maddie battles against her attacker, her character transitions from vulnerability to formidable resilience, brilliantly portrayed by Siegel. Her resourcefulness and determination become the heart of the narrative, elevating her beyond a passive victim to an empowered adversary. The killer, meanwhile, stands as a chilling presence; his menacing anonymity early on is undone with eerie confidence when he reveals himself, driven purely by the sadistic pleasure of the hunt.
The film’s strength lies in its refusal to resort to commonplace tropes or easy resolutions. Flanagan’s skillful direction and Siegel’s adept screenplay create a gripping atmosphere that defies expectations. This tension-filled examination of fear is given life not only through the haunting quiet but through its characters’ compelling dynamics. "Hush" demands attention with its cohesive simplicity and expertly orchestrated suspense, making it essential viewing for both horror aficionados and thriller enthusiasts, who will appreciate its profound grasp on the complexity of fear and survival.
Total: 91
Mike Flanagan’s "Hush" on 4K UHD Blu-ray is a masterclass in minimalist horror storytelling, blending engaging narrative with impressive technical execution. The film's unique setting, largely confined to a secluded home, intensifies the dread through a skilled combination of silence and vulnerability, highlighting Flanagan’s innovative choice of a deaf protagonist. Kate Siegel's portrayal magnifies the suspense, skillfully leveraging an acute awareness of being watched to evoke fear without resorting to overt gore or conventional jump scares. The technical presentation is exemplary, offering outstanding 4K visuals and an impressive Dolby Atmos track, enhancing the viewing experience significantly.
The decision to reveal the antagonist's identity early on is a bold narrative choice that amplifies the film’s creepiness and urgency. This strategic move compels viewers to confront the terror head-on, enriching the depth of engagement and suspense throughout the film. Adding further value, the Blu-ray includes a plethora of insightful bonus features that provide an expansive understanding of the creative processes behind the film—a treat for fans and enthusiasts eager to delve deeper into this gripping thriller.
In conclusion, "Hush" is an exemplar of contemporary horror that melds elegance with terror effortlessly. Its technical merits and storytelling calibre make it a quintessential addition to any horror aficionado's collection. This release is not just for passive enjoyment but demands immersive appreciation. For those who appreciate nuanced tension over spectacle, "Hush" on 4K UHD Blu-ray is unequivocally a MUST OWN.
AV Nirvana review by Michael ScottRead review here
Video: 90
NEW 2024 4K Restoration - B&W "Shush Cut" supervised and approved by Mike Flanagan NEW Audio Commentary with Mike Flanagan and Kate Siegel ("Shush Cut") NEW 2024 "Shush Cut" Audio Mix DISC FOUR - BLU-RAY:...
Audio: 100
Extras: 90
Movie: 80
Mike Flanagan has sort of gotten himself a cult following in the horror community over the last 15 or so years due to the fact that he constantly innovates, continually switches things up, and has a large...
Total: 90
While both the theatrical and the black and white discs all have the same 5.1 and 2.0 tracks (both theatrical and Shush audio mixes) the theatrical disc ONLY has the theatrical Audio in Atmos, and the...
High-Def DigestRead review here
Video: 100
However, as the film takes a darker turn, the comfort of those colors is stripped away, and the atmosphere grows increasingly claustrophobic....
Audio: 100
But it’s not just the dramatic moments that shine; the atmospheric sounds of footsteps on leaves, labored breathing, the murmur of the wind through the trees transform the house in the woods into a living,...
Extras: 80
Audio commentary #3 - This is the NEW Shush Cut commentary track with Kate and Mike talking about the differences between the film, the visual elements, and more great stories from the set....
Movie: 80
With a simple premise that nods to classics like Wait Until Dark and Halloween, Flanagan’s film is a study in suspense, a master class in how the silence of isolation can be just as terrifying as the screams...
Total: 100
Flanagan’s decision to center the narrative on a deaf protagonist (played by Siegel herself) is a masterstroke, allowing the tension to unfold through an acute awareness of silence, vulnerability, and...
Why So Blu? review by Adam Toroni-ByrneRead review here
Video: 100
Overall, the film looks more digital to my eyes in this way, but the difference in atmosphere is interesting, simply from the draining of color from the film....
Audio: 100
Quite glaringly, the packaging for Hush does not mention the Dolby Atmos mixes for both cuts of the film....
Extras: 100
“Shush Cut” Audio Mix.Disc Four (Blu-ray™, Special Features):NEW Feature-Length Picture-In-Picture Video Commentary with Mike Flanagan, Kate Siegel, Samantha Sloyan, John Gallagher, Jr., and Michael Trucco...
Movie: 80
Siegel brings a great strength to the role of Maddie, and we root for her as she pushes forward, hiding and fighting her way through the night....
Total: 100
The bravery of Mike Flanagan and Kate Siegel choosing to reveal the killer under the mask so early on only makes the killer creepier, and the whole movie is an exercise in how to make your audience squirm....
Director: Mike Flanagan
Actors: John Gallagher Jr., Kate Siegel, Michael Trucco
PlotMaddie Young, a deaf and mute author, lives in seclusion within the woods as she works on her next novel. Seeking solace in her isolation, her world remains quiet yet content until one evening when a masked intruder appears. This mysterious figure quickly turns her solitude into a harrowing game of cat and mouse. Maddie realizes he has no intention of leaving and that he is determined to terrorize her until the end. Unable to hear him and cut off from the outside world, she uses her inner strength and acute senses to try and outwit the relentless man prowling around her home.
As the night unfolds, Maddie must rely on her instincts and resourcefulness to survive. With limited means of communication and nowhere to hide, she faces a seemingly insurmountable battle. The intruder's menacing tactics grow more desperate as Maddie resolutely fights back, driven by sheer will and survival instincts. The tension escalates as her sanctuary crumbles into a perilous battleground, bringing Maddie face to face with her fears. Amidst the haunting silence, each moment becomes more critical than the last in a deadly struggle that blurs the boundaries between life and death.
Writers: Mike Flanagan, Kate Siegel
Release Date: 08 Apr 2016
Runtime: 82 min
Rating: R
Country: United States
Language: English, American Sign