Jaws 3-D 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

The 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation of Jaws 3-D is an ambitious effort that largely reflects the limitations and challenges of the original 1980s 3-D film technology. Shot using both the single-strip StereoVision 3-D system and the ArriVision 3-D system, the film's 2-D version suffers as it predominantly utilizes only one eye's image, effectively providing only half the image quality. This historical context explains why Jaws 3-D has never looked great on disc in 2-D, and unfortunately, the 4K UHD transfer doesn't significantly improve the overall visual quality.

Universal has attempted to address inherent issues with ghosting and parallax artifacts through algorithmic AI sharpening. However, this approach introduces its own set of problems. When this sharpening is applied, the image can suffer from over-processed details, making characters appear almost rotoscoped with exaggerated lines around eyes and mouths. Scene consistency is further compromised as some shots are treated heavily while others lightly or not at all, leading to jarring visual inconsistency. Background elements, particularly those involving crowds at SeaWorld, often appear unnaturally distorted, bordering on a bizarre cartoonish effect.

On a brighter note, the HDR10 grading is a standout feature, injecting the film with vibrant primaries and maintaining natural skin tones. The film benefits from improved black levels in untouched scenes, lending a sense of depth previously lost when converting from 3-D to 2-D. Additionally, issues of blooming observed in past releases have been mitigated. Despite these enhancements, the overall result is a mixed bag, where moments of visual beauty are frequently overshadowed by glaring anomalies introduced by modern sharpening techniques.

The new Dolby Atmos audio track for "Jaws 3-D" in its 4K UHD Blu Ray release stands out as highly engaging and immersive. Right from the start, the soundscape is active and makes excellent use of front, center, and surround channels to create a captivating auditory experience. Alan Parker's score is delivered with surprising punch, adding to the thrill of both underwater and above-water sequences. Height channels are effectively employed for spatial effects, particularly in sequences involving the shark's menacing presence, adding a layer of tension that is both palpable and impactful.

The surround channels come alive with ambient and directional effects, while the height channels contribute to an atmospheric depth that enhances the overall viewing experience. Particularly notable are the pinpoint effects, such as those when the big momma shark eyes her prey. These moments are slickly integrated, adding real drama to the action. The LFE channel also comes into play effectively with deep rumbles from boat engines, underscoring the intensity of key scenes. Though it is unfortunate that no legacy audio options are included, the dynamic upgrade this new track provides more than compensates for those omissions.

Overall, the effort to enhance the audio is commendable, even though including some legacy tracks would have been a welcome addition for purists. Universal's decision to focus exclusively on the new Atmos track results in an entertaining and comprehensive auditory experience that modernizes the classic film remarkably well.

Universal's 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Jaws 3-D" in a Limited Edition SteelBook features packaging that aligns with the series' consistent visual branding, providing fans with a striking matte finish design that resists fingerprints. The SteelBook opens to reveal an engaging panoramic image from the film. Notably, the on-disc extras are minimal, with the 4K UHD disc containing only the theatrical trailer. Likewise, the 1080p Blu-ray disc mirrors this by including the trailer and the 3D version of the film. This limited offering may come as a disappointment for those hoping for more substantial bonus features usually associated with such releases.

Extras included in this disc:

• Theatrical Trailer: The original promotional trailer for "Jaws 3-D".
• 3D Version of the Feature Film: Experience the movie in its original 3D format (available on the 1080p disc).

"Jaws 3-D," the 1983 sequel to the iconic "Jaws," returns to 4K UHD Blu-ray via Universal in a meticulously crafted SteelBook edition. This edition includes a 4K UHD disc and a Blu-ray disc that offers both the 2D and 3D presentations of the film, extending a nostalgic invitation to fans of the franchise and general movie enthusiasts alike. Despite its narrative shortcomings, this re-release highlights the film's adherence to the high-octane summer blockbuster formula, oscillating between genuine tension and inadvertent comedy.

The film itself lacks the innovative spark of its predecessors, treading familiar waters with a plot that is essentially an aquatic cat-and-mouse game within an artificial lagoon at SeaWorld. The storyline gives an unintentional comedic touch, particularly with the elaborately staged water skiing pyramid sequences and the somewhat ludicrous appearance of a giant shark trapped in man-made waters. Dennis Quaid, cast as Mike Brody, embodies the heroic qualities reminiscent of his on-screen father from the original film. While the film's suspense is sporadically punctuated by notable scenes like Mike repairing underwater equipment, it fails to sustain the charm and thrill of earlier installments.

Technically, the UHD presentation revitalizes "Jaws 3-D," offering an enhanced viewing experience that underscores its 3D origins. The transfer captures the deliberate camerawork and period-specific special effects, delivering a nostalgia-infused yet polished visual quality. This makes the 3D version not only a novelty but arguably the best way to experience this particular sequel. The disc set is well-crafted, with each disc housed in its own slot within the SteelBook, accompanied by newly inspired disc art and a user-friendly menu interface. This edition, defined by its attention to detail and form, stands as a testament to both the enduring appeal of the "Jaws" series and the technical advancements in home entertainment.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Jaws 3-D" has been met with a mixed reception. On the positive side, the packaging stands out greatly, especially for fans of the series. The limited edition SteelBook design is striking, perfectly capturing the menacing essence of the film and staying true to the aesthetics established by previous releases in the franchise. This makes it a no-brainer addition for collectors who have enjoyed the other SteelBooks. However, the quality of the 4K transfer itself leaves much to be desired.

The visual presentation is undermined by an over-reliance on algorithmic AI sharpening tools. Instead of enhancing the already problematic source material, this technique introduces new issues, sometimes to a comical extent, that detract from the viewing experience. Despite a decent HDR grade attempting to inject some life into the picture, these technical flaws cannot be ignored and place significant limitations on the overall visual quality. On the audio front, the disc delivers a robust and enjoyable Dolby Atmos track that elevates the experience somewhat but does not fully compensate for the visual shortcomings.

In conclusion, while "Jaws 3" might not be a great candidate for 4K UHD glory given its inherent filming limitations and subsequent technical missteps, its SteelBook release is visually appealing, making it an attractive option for avid collectors of the series. However, for those seeking the best visual experience of this cult classic, the 1080p 3-D version remains superior. Therefore, unless you're a completist or find it at a bargain price, this release is difficult to wholeheartedly recommend.

The Jaws 3 4K + 3D Limited Edition SteelBook is very well done. The front image conveys the appropriate amount of danger, as does the back, and is in keeping with the established style of the previous entrant in the series of releases. Fans of the franchise who have already acquired the previous two SteelBooks will certainly wish to add this one to their collections as well. Recommended.