Below 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

The 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation of "Below," as released by Kino Lorber, leverages a new HDR/Dolby Vision master derived from a 4K scan of the original 35mm camera negative. This results in a remarkable visual output with a 1.85:1 aspect ratio, encoded in HEVC 2160p. The included Blu-ray disc also benefits from this 4K scan, albeit processed as an HD master. The Dolby Vision grading ensures stunning highlights with striking contrast between the deep blacks and radiant whites. Colors, especially green and red indicator lights, are vibrant and enhance the visual storytelling, with elements like torch lamps and flares effectively ‘popping’ on screen.

However, the presentation in native 4K is somewhat inconsistent. While the darker scenes benefit from excellent delineation, clarity, and depth, brighter scenes exhibit overly sharp visuals that seem digitally refined. This excessive crispness may detract from the experience for some viewers. Grain is present but remains controlled throughout, maintaining a filmic quality despite age-related artifacts in underwater scenes and visual effects shots, where CG imperfections become apparent, including visible scanlines and less dynamic sky backgrounds.

Despite minor imperfections, the stability of the image and overall color fidelity are commendable, making the native 4K presentation preferable to its 1080p counterpart. The latter sometimes exacerbates the harshness of visuals seen in brighter scenes. Overall, "Below" on 4K UHD Blu-ray offers a largely satisfying video experience, particularly for enthusiasts who appreciate its vibrant color presentation and excellent handling of shadowed sequences.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Below" presents two robust audio tracks: the English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 stereo mix, enhanced with optional English SDH subtitles. The DTS-HD MA 5.1 mix is a notable standout, delivering an immersive auditory experience that captures the eerie and atmospheric essence of the film. Its dynamic range is commendable, with a focus on intricate sound effects that enhance the tense narrative set within the confines of a submarine.

The dynamic intensity of the audio track is remarkable, expertly utilizing directional panning to engage viewers in the story's tension-filled environment. The extended low frequencies lend a powerful weight to the audio, effortlessly conveying the unsettling ambience of the ocean's depths and the resonant clangs within the submarine. Despite some repetition in the sound effects, which can make them predictable over time, the track excels in maintaining clear and accessible dialogue amidst these immersive soundscapes.

In summary, the DTS-HD MA 5.1 mix effectively harnesses the film's atmospheric cues, employing nuanced whispers and ambient noises to elevate tension and deliver a sonically rich experience. The clarity of dialogue remains consistently high, ensuring that even amidst the film's more cacophonous sequences, the verbal exchanges are easy to follow. This technical prowess makes the audio presentation of "Below" on this 4K UHD Blu-ray release exceptionally engaging for audiences seeking a dynamic and immersive viewing experience.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Below" offers a commendable collection of extras that enrich the viewer's experience despite the absence of new features. The audio commentary by director David Twohy, alongside actors Matt Davis, Bruce Greenwood, Holt McCallany, Zach Galifianakis, and Nick Chinlund, stands out as a compelling addition, providing insightful perspectives from a seasoned ensemble. The feature-rich Blu-ray supplements further enhance this package. "The Process" delves into the film's production at Pinewood Studios with exclusive footage and interviews, offering valuable insights into the cinematic journey. Three deleted scenes, accompanied by optional commentary from Twohy, present intriguing alternatives to the final cut. A vintage U.S. trailer provides additional nostalgic value. Overall, while the absence of newly developed features is notable, the available content suitably complements the cinematic experience.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Engaging track with insights from director David Twohy and notable actors.
• The Process: Archival footage and interviews from Pinewood Studios.
• Deleted Scenes: Three scenes with optional commentary by David Twohy—Creepy Comic, Hot Fish, Red Flare Ending.
• Trailer: Vintage U.S. trailer capturing the essence of the film.

David Twohy's 2002 film "Below" offers a distinct, albeit mixed, take on the submarine thriller genre, presented in a 4K UHD release by Kino Lorber. The ambitious narrative melds horror elements with World War II drama, all set within the claustrophobic confines of a U.S. submarine. The USS Tiger Shark, navigating a perilous cat-and-mouse game with a German ship, picks up survivors from a U-boat attack. Among them is a female doctor (Olivia Williams) whose presence amplifies the tension among the crew. Paranoia escalates as strange occurrences lead to whispers of haunting aboard the vessel. While the film attempts to innovate within its confined setting, comparisons to submarine classics like "The Hunt for Red October" and "Run Silent, Run Deep" reveal its shortcomings.

Despite considerable potential and an impressive ensemble cast, significant narrative issues hinder "Below" from achieving its full impact. Setbacks include plot inconsistencies and a somewhat artificial atmosphere that relies heavily on sound effects and visual tricks instead of authentic tension. Cinematographer Ian Wilson's efforts, while competent, do not reach his past highs, resulting in visuals that fail to elevate the story. Twohy's direction and screenplay, which involved collaborations with Lucas Sussman and an early contribution from Darren Aronofsky, struggled with maintaining a cohesive blend of horror and wartime tensions. The intended psychological depth and suspense often fall prey to predictability and lackluster execution.

However, "Below" is not devoid of merit. It successfully captures sporadic moments of tension using chiaroscuro lighting to fabricate an eerie ambiance. The cast's strong performances, led by Bruce Greenwood and Olivia Williams, are commendable and offer glimpses of the potential depth in an otherwise underdeveloped narrative. While it may not stand out as a benchmark in the genre, it provides an engaging watch for those interested in submarine fiction with supernatural undertones.

The 4K UHD Blu-Ray release of "Below" from Kino Lorber revisits a film that sits somewhat under the radar when it comes to submarine thrillers. Director David Twohy, alongside co-writer Darren Aronofsky, crafts an ambitious narrative that, while embedded with familiar thriller clichés, manages to be engaging due to its strong performances and atmospheric delivery. This version benefits from a new 4K transfer derived directly from the original camera negative, which elevates the visuals with striking clarity, supported by HDR Dolby Vision. Though well-executed, some may argue that the film's narrative consistency could have benefited from more meticulous direction.

The technical specifications highlight the film's immersive potential, featuring a 1.85:1 aspect ratio and enhanced audio options including DTS-HD MA 5.1 and a stereo alternative. This package provides rich audiovisual experiences for enthusiasts, complemented by English subtitles for accessibility. Despite its mixed critical reception, the movie shines through its technical prowess and the commitment of its cast, offering an effective entry into the psychological thriller genre. The release does warrant reflecting on how audiences perceive submarine films and places this often-overlooked title into a better light.

In conclusion, while "Below" may not emerge as a pinnacle of its genre, the 4K UHD treatment affords it a valuable reappraisal. Fans of suspense thrillers and war-time narratives will find much to appreciate in its nuanced tension and enriched presentation. With excellent performances and an ambitious directorial vision, this release may pleasantly surprise both new viewers and those revisiting.