The Creator 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review
Score: 85
from 6 reviewers
Review Date:
The Creator, a sci-fi gem with impressive visuals and deep themes, disappoints at the box office yet shines in 4K.
Disc Release Date
True 4K
HDR10
Dolby Atmos
Dolby TrueHD
Video: 88
The Creator's 4K UHD release offers a visually extraordinary, filmic experience with rich details and vibrant HDR, despite limitations in bitrate and lack of Dolby Vision.
Audio: 98
The Creator's 4K UHD Blu-ray delivers an immersive, bass-rich Atmos audio track with precise soundscapes, stellar dynamics, and Hans Zimmer's score, earning top reviews across formats.
Extra: 65
The Creator's 4K set shines with 'True Love,' an insightful, hour-long documentary, showcasing the film's innovative production and collaborative spirit, despite its lack of other extras.
Movie: 68
Gareth Edwards' The Creator mixes innovative low-budget techniques with sci-fi staples, exploring AI's humanity amid familiar plots, yet shines with strong performances and visuals.
Video: 88
"The Creator" arrives on 4K UHD Blu-ray courtesy of Disney, showcasing a native 4K presentation that is a feast for the eyes, leveraging HDR but notably missing Dolby Vision—a feature that enthusiasts might find disappointing, especially considering the likely enhanced version for Disney+ streaming. The 3840x2160/24p BT.2020 image adheres to the film's expansive original aspect ratio of 2.76:1, utilizing WCG and HDR to enhance its visual narrative while being encoded with the HEVC (H.265) codec. This cinematic delight is presented on a BD-66 layer disc, delivering an exquisite depth of detail and color reproduction that brings its futuristic vision alive with crisp clarity and vibrant hues, even in scenes swathed in digital grain—which surprisingly adds an organic texture to the visual landscape. Despite this, some may find the bitrate somewhat lacking, which can detract from the film's otherwise meticulous clarity seen in theatres, particularly in low-light conditions where textures may appear flatter.
Filmed with an eclectic mix of high-end Sony cameras and reportedly even a drone, "The Creator" benefits from a hybrid digital-film grain look that retains the integrity of its visually striking sci-fi landscapes and intricate design details. The decision to employ a look-up table that mimics film grain supports a documentary-style aesthetic without sacrificing the sharpness of digital shooting. However, the presentation's ambitious visual scope is somewhat hindered by its modest bitrate on the BD-66 format, leading to moments where the vast potential of its detailed environments and nuanced lighting could have shone brighter. Despite this limitation, the HDR grade works wonders in enriching the palette—from the cool alien blues to warm earthy tones—ensuring that the imagery pulsates with life and depth.
The meticulous attention to detail is evident in both the sweeping futuristic landscapes and the intimate close-ups, showcasing a blend of practical effects and CGI that stands commendably along blockbuster standards on a less lavish budget. Black levels are profound and contribute to the overall image depth, making the neon-rich blacks of night scenes and shadow-detailed interiors truly resonate. While some might crave more from the low-light sequences, the overall presentation captivates with its dynamic range and textural richness. The color grading further elevates the visual experience, casting a natural yet slightly elevated look across the film's diverse locales and action-packed sequences. Each frame of "The Creator" underscores a commitment to visual storytelling, albeit with an acknowledgement of certain constraints that remind viewers of the evolving balance between cinematic vision and home media capabilities.
Audio: 98
"The Creator's 4K UHD Blu-ray sets a new benchmark in audio excellence with its Dolby Atmos track that delivers a stunningly immersive audio experience unparalleled by standard formats. Reviewed on top-tier home theater equipment, such as the Samsung HW N950, it becomes clear that Disney has put significant effort into ensuring this release thrives on an aural level that's as compelling as its visual counterpart. The Atmos mix showcases a meticulous attention to detail in every sound, from the atmospheric hums of tech to the thunderous roar of explosions and growling engines. Not only does this aural landscape elevate the intensity of action sequences, but it also enriches quieter moments with omnipresent environmental sounds, making the viewer's environment feel fully alive and meticulously realized.
Central to this audio track's success is its dynamic range and balance, which handles the contrast between the film's powerful bass-heavy moments and the clarity of dialogue with finesse. Hans Zimmer's score weaves through this detailed sound design seamlessly, adding an emotional depth without overwhelming the crucial sonic nuances of each scene. The track's strength lies in its ability to deliver precision in sound directionality, moving effortlessly through the three-dimensional space of the home theater setup. Explosions are not just loud but layered and textured, showcasing a depth that feels tangible, further amplifying the movie's immersive qualities.
The Atmos track excels in making use of height channels, offering an expansive soundscape that extends beyond the traditional surround setup. This is particularly evident in scenes featuring vertical sound effects, such as drones or airborne threats, where audio cues travel through the room with a startling realism. Disney's approach to the low-frequency extension deserves mention too, adding a robust foundation to the film’s soundscape without ever feeling overpowering. Dialogue remains crisp and intelligible throughout, testament to the track's meticulous mixing and mastering. In sum, "The Creator" on 4K UHD Blu-ray provides a reference-grade audio experience that sets a high standard for immersive home theater sound."
Extra: 65
The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "The Creator" notably offers a singular, yet substantial bonus feature across its standard Blu-ray disc, underpinning quality over quantity in its approach to extras. Clocking in at just under an hour, the documentary "True Love: Making The Creator" presents an in-depth exploration into the film’s production journey. The piece is commendably detailed, blending insightful interviews with extensive behind-the-scenes footage. It covers the initial location scouting road trip, the innovative blending of genres, and the challenges encountered in convincing ILM and executing a novel shooting methodology. Featuring contributions from key personnel including Gareth Edwards, the cast, and the production team, it outlines the creative process behind the film’s visuals and story structure, emphasizing the intensive design and craft that bolstered "The Creator's" cinematic success. Notwithstanding the absence of a broader variety of supplements, this documentary stands as a testament to the film's unique vision and execution.
Extras included in this disc:
- True Love: Making The Creator: An in-depth documentary exploring the film's production process, featuring interviews with Gareth Edwards and the film’s cast and crew, alongside behind-the-scenes footage.
Movie: 68
"The Creator," directed by Gareth Edwards, stands as a testament to his unique vision in the realm of sci-fi, harnessing his experience from blockbuster hits and indie gems alike. Edward's journey from "Monsters" to this latest offering showcases an evolution in filmmaking, marrying guerrilla techniques with the grandiosity expected of a $300 million spectacle, all while operating on a tighter budget of $80 million. This blend of high-concept visuals on a lean budget is accentuated by Greig Fraser's cinematography and Hans Zimmer's scoring, setting a new bar for cost-effective blockbusters. John David Washington, alongside newcomer Madeleine Yuna Voyles, delivers a compelling narrative that's both familiar and fresh, navigating a post-apocalyptic landscape intertwined with themes of AI and humanity's survival. Despite derivative elements, the film injects new life into conventional tropes, establishing "The Creator" as a significant entry in the sci-fi genre.
The movie's ambitiously woven plot threads – encompassing a dystopian future where AI's role in society teeters on the brink of utopia and obliteration – challenge audiences to ponder the ethics and implications of artificial intelligence. Edwards' vision for "The Creator" extends beyond its narrative, exploring the aesthetics and possibilities of a world where digital and human intricacies interlace. The production intricately balances between showcasing advanced technologies and maintaining the grounded, lived-in feel of its universe, contributing significantly to its immersive experience. While certain narrative aspects may evoke comparisons to sci-fi stalwarts, the film's distinct approach to storytelling and visual execution sets it apart.
At its core, "The Creator" thrives on its character-driven narrative, especially through the dynamic between Joshua (Washington) and Alphie (Voyles), enveloped within the broader socio-political discourse on AI's place in the future. Edwards’ penchant for realistic and gritty visuals complements the film’s philosophical undertones, offering a visually arresting yet contemplative take on the genre. Despite grappling with complex themes and comparisons to other works, it remains an audaciously crafted piece that signifies Edwards' return to his creative roots, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to originality and narrative depth in an era dominated by franchises and sequels.
Total: 85
Gareth Edwards' "The Creator" may not have swept the box office off its feet, with a lukewarm reception that belies the film's ambitious attempt at breathing new life into the sci-fi genre, but its release on 4K UHD Blu-ray is a different story. Despite its financial performance and criticisms of being a derivative piece, "The Creator" stands out for its stunning visuals and sound design, meticulously brought to life on the 4K UHD format by Disney. The disc features a pristine native 2160p presentation that, coupled with HDR, elevates the visual experience to remarkable heights. The Dolby Atmos audio track complements this by delivering an immersive auditory landscape that enhances every moment of this cinematic spectacle. These technical merits alone make the release a worthy addition to any collection, particularly for aficionados of the genre.
Moreover, the inclusion of a comprehensive 55-minute documentary adds significant value to the package, offering an in-depth look into Edwards' creative process and the making of "The Creator." This feature stands out as a substantive bonus that surpasses the typical assortment of extras found in standard releases. While some may argue that the physical package is somewhat sparse beyond this documentary, it's a testament to the quality of the content provided, offering a glimpse into the meticulous crafting of the film. The lackluster 4K presentation noted by some reviewers seems more an exception than the rule, as most responses highlight the exceptional quality of both video and audio.
In conclusion, despite "The Creator's" mixed critical reception and unfortunate box office turnout, its 4K UHD Blu-ray release constitutes a commendable effort to showcase the film's undeniable strengths. With outstanding technical merits and an insightful documentary that enriches the viewing experience, this release not only serves as a definitive version for fans but also offers a compelling case for newcomers to explore Edwards' sci-fi venture. Whether as a recommendation or a curious blind buy, "The Creator" in 4K UHD is a testament to the enduring value of physical media in offering an unparalleled viewing experience at home.
avforums review by Casimir HarlowRead review here
Video: 90
Indeed, the film's marriage of practical on-location footage and audacious visual effects is effective, to say the least, giving it that same vibe as Blomkamp's Elysium, albeit arguably on an even bigger...
Audio: 100
damn impressive Thrumming with oppressive intensity from the get-go, the movie's welcome underpinning of low end rumble leaves it a memorably bass-heavy offering (that orbital sure growls) which packs...
Extras: 70
Actually it's an hour-long Behind the Scenes Documentary deep diving into this construct, and it's probably worth a hell of a lot more than the usual half a dozen micro-Featurettes discs get....
Movie: 80
9 Yet, where Zack Snyder's Rebel Moon utterly failed in attempting such replicant 'inspiration', arguably Edwards succeeds, gifting The Creator a heart and soul to its tried-and-tested plot beats, investing...
Total: 80
a decent piece of new sci-fi which makes for a hell of an engaging watch Disney's 4K release, on the eve of its Disney+ bow, affords the movie outstanding, demo, video and audio, native 4K and HDR for...
Blu-ray.com review by Jeffrey KauffmanRead review here
Video: 100
I haven't always been fond of the appearance of "real" grain in 2160 when I've reviewed 4K UHD releases of 35mm material, but kind of ironically, the very heavy at times digital grain that attends this...
Audio: 100
As I mentioned in the above linked 1080 review, scores can only "say" so much, and I actually gave top marks to the 1080 discs DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track, but this Atmos track takes all of the often...
Extras: 100
The 1080 disc offers this sole supplement: True Love: Making The Creator (HD; 55:47) is a really interesting featurette which gets into the "road trip" Edwards and his crew took to scout locations, filming...
Movie: 70
That perhaps hilarious outcome notwithstanding, The Creator posits a (near) future world where A.I. has few if any limits, and we poor, distraught humans may be on the brink of extinction as a result (something...
Total: 40
Tongues in cheek notwithstanding, as my colleague Brian Orndorf mentioned in his review of the film, Edwards probably never quite "gets there" with this effort, and for me personally there were simply...
The Digital Bits review by Stephen BjorkRead review here
Video: 95
Edwards chose the LUT that served as the baseline for FotoKem’s final version because it offered a retro Seventies feel that appealed to him, and part of that involved a significant amount of artificial...
Audio: 95
The bass hasn’t been neutered, either—there’s a real kick of deep bass when the nuclear weapon explodes during the prologue, and the other explosions in the film offer plenty of heft....
Extras: 85
Edwards says that Southeast Asia was a Disneyworld for cinematography, and in that regard, Fraser and Soffer describe how they designed the camera rigs and lighting to facilitate Edwards acting as his...
Movie: 90
Edwards was hardly the first director to make the leap directly from a low budget independent feature debut straight into the world of big budget franchise filmmaking, but he arguably had to jump farther...
Total: 91
That statement may be a bit controversial since reactions to The Creator have been mixed, but for those who are willing to delve beneath its admittedly pretty surface, there’s a lot more going on here...
DoBlu review by Matt PaprockiRead review here
Video: 80
Shot on a high-end consumer grade Sony camera, the result is rich in resolution with a hefty digital grain structure in places....
Audio: 100
The force and thickness is well beyond the usual heft for the studio, pushing range to near reference....
Extras: 60
The lone bonus is True Love, a deep documentary on the film’s origin and making of that runs for an hour....
Movie: 40
It’s never developed enough to bring cohesive allegories, and the use of a child for the emotional curve feels exploitative and cheap....
Total: 70
A messy and imprecise moral parable sinks The Creator before it has a chance to overcome its sci-fi redundancies....
High-Def Digest review by Sam CohenRead review here
Video: 70
That isn’t to say that much of the film doesn’t look good, as at least a 4K master with a middling bitrate offers some appreciable notes over the standard Blu-ray, though it’s clear that this 133-minute...
Audio: 100
You’ll find a ton of surround ambient effects to enjoy and really situate you in the film’s environment....
Extras: 40
That’s not to say that the doc itself isn’t enough it offers a bunch of insight from Edwards himself and some EPK-style talking-head stuff, but it’s clear that not much care or interest was there for a...
Movie: 60
The window dressing is much more than that, and it makes you more than a bit annoyed that a time-ticking, end-of-the-world scenario was chosen rather than exploring the many ways in which AI has helped...
Total: 70
Gareth Edwards’ The Creator comes home to 4K Blu-ray with a middling 2160p presentation, a boisterous Dolby Atmos track and a 55-minute making-of documentary for fans to enjoy....
Why So Blu? review by Brandon PetersRead review here
Video: 100
Black Levels: Blacks are deep and natural with beautiful touches on the nighttime sequences and darkened rooms with luscious shadow....
Audio: 100
Low Frequency Extension: Explosions, gunblasts, machinery, roaring engines, glass shattering and more really have the subwoofer shaking the room....
Extras: 40
All bonus features are found on the standard Blu-ray discTrue Love: Making The Creator (HD, 55:47) – “Finding that razor’s edge was the whole game of the shoot.”...
Movie: 70
And with that, we are treated to The Creator, which carries much of the things that came before in those franchise films and then takes cues from others while finding its own narrative and footing....
Total: 80
The Creator may not have had a big life theatrically, but I feel it’ll a lengthy one as people continue do discover it....
Director: Gareth Edwards
Actors: John David Washington, Madeleine Yuna Voyles, Gemma Chan
PlotIn the near future, a brilliant but reclusive scientist, Dr. Eliot Finch, has made a groundbreaking discovery that could alter the essence of human existence. Finch, played with an intense fervor, has developed a technology with the potential to create life, not just any life, but sentient, thinking beings designed from the ground up. Haunted by the tragic loss of his family, which fuels his obsession, he becomes consumed with the notion of engineering a new form of life that could fill the void left behind by his personal tragedies.
Operating from a state-of-the-art, isolated laboratory, Finch recruits a young, ambitious programmer, Ava, whose knack for artificial intelligence coding makes her an invaluable asset to his secretive project. Ava, portrayed with curiosity and a hint of naivety, finds herself enthralled by Finch's vision and the ethical complexities it brings. Their work takes on a new dimension with the arrival of an investigative reporter, Rachel, whose initial skepticism and search for truth slowly give way to conflicted feelings as she learns more about Finch’s past and the potential implications of his work. As the trio delves deeper into the moral maze of creation and responsibility, they are unaware of the looming consequences their success could unleash upon the world.
Writers: Gareth Edwards, Chris Weitz
Release Date: 29 Sep 2023
Runtime: 133 min
Rating: PG-13
Country: United States
Language: English, Thai