Wanted 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Shout Factory's release of "Wanted" on 4K UHD Blu-ray is presented with an HEVC / H.265 2160p encoding in the film's original theatrical aspect ratio of 2.39:1 widescreen, boasting one of the most commendable aspects of this edition. The transfer showcases a remarkable upscale to 4K, preserving the film's natural film grain and providing a sharp, crystal-clear image without succumbing to the pitfalls of digital noise reduction (DNR) or poor encoding. This release stands out for its fidelity to the source material, maintaining a naturally filmic aesthetic that will surely please aficionados looking for an authentic cinematic experience.

The video quality benefits from a new 4K master provided by Shout Factory, under license from Universal, highlighting a solid and stable grain structure that's been carefully resolved by the encode. This, married with a cinematographic style that chooses a softer focus while not detracting from the overall definition, allows for a rich texture and depth in the visual presentation. Color grading leans toward warmer tones, with a digital amber tint enhancing continuity across scenes without overshadowing the vibrancy of other primary colors, which come alive especially in expansive cityscapes or specific early scenes set in a grocery store. Enhanced reds find their balance alongside vivid greens and blues, contributing to a visually cohesive narrative space.

Moreover, "Wanted" benefits greatly from Dolby Vision, which adds a layer of intensity to bright elements like car headlights, signage, and explosions, enhancing dimensionality and offering an accentuated sense of depth through its treatment of black levels and contrast. While the additional detail over the standard Blu-ray may be modest, the overall enhancement of color, depth, and the maintenance of natural film grain textures make this 4K UHD presentation a worthy investment for both fans and newcomers to the film, standing testament to the care and attention given to this visually striking release.

The 4K UHD Blu Ray release of "Wanted" delivers an auditory experience that is both crisp and immersive, thanks to its English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround sound. The 24-bit high-resolution lossless audio offers exceptional clarity and dimensionality, making every moment from the quietest dialogue to the most explosive action sequences come alive with startling realism. The mix provides an ample showcase for the film’s dynamic score and well-chosen soundtrack, ensuring that every aspect of the film's audio design is given its due. Additionally, an optional English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 stereo track caters to listeners with different audio setups, ensuring a versatile and accommodating listening experience.

Despite the absence of Atmos/DTS:X, the existing DTS-HD 5.1 track originally from the Blu-ray stands remarkably well on its own, transforming "Wanted’s" audio into a continual spectacle that never fails to impress. Bullet trails and explosions exhibit a noteworthy depth and power, making effective use of the subwoofer to add to the film's dramatic impact. Surrounds play a pivotal role, enveloping the listener in a meticulously crafted sound field that ranges from shattering glass to the thunderous roar of trains collapsing, crafting scenes of pure aural magic.

This edition notably excels in its handling of action sequences, where the creative and well-stylized surround sound mix shines. The audio dynamics are both impressive and engaging, with every speaker in the setup being utilized to provide a detailed and expansive audio landscape. This ensures that listeners are placed right at the heart of the action, surrounded by a highly engaging mix that breathes life into every scene. Whether it’s the echo of a bullet or the subtlety of the score, "Wanted" on 4K UHD Blu Ray offers an audio presentation that is as compelling as it is technically proficient.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Wanted" brings together a diverse collection of extras, blending both high-definition and standard-definition content that aims to enhance the overall viewing experience. The included material spans from an intriguing alternate opening, which poses a different narrative path yet could potentially disrupt subsequent scenes, to a series of visual effects featurettes that, despite offering fascinating insights into the movie's cinematic tricks, might have benefited from being amalgamated into a singular, more comprehensive piece. A notably extensive interview segment with the cast and the visionary director, Timur Bekmambetov, delves into the filmmaking process, providing a behind-the-scenes look that fans will appreciate. Additionally, the disc features a special focus on the origins of the graphic novel, complemented by motion comics that offer a unique storytelling medium. While some may find the featurettes somewhat brief, they collectively paint a detailed picture of the movie's creation and the innovative techniques employed to bring its dynamic action to life.

Extras included in this disc:

Alternate Opening: An additional opening scene offering an alternative narrative start.

Extended Scene: A longer cut from the training segment of the film.

Cast and Characters: A 20-minute deep dive into the cast and their roles.

Stunts on the L Train: Exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the stunts performed on the L train.

Special Effects: The Art of the Impossible: Analysis of the movie's special effects work.

Wanted: Motion Comics: Motion comics based on the film's inspiration.

Groundbreaking Visual Effects: From Imagination to Execution: Exploration of the visual effects that brought "Wanted" to life.

Origins of Wanted: Bringing the Graphic Novel to Life: Interviews and discussions about adapting the graphic novel for the screen.

Through the Eyes of Visionary Director Timur Bekmambetov: A feature on the director's unique vision and filmmaking process.

Wanted," the action-thriller based on Mark Millar and J.G. Jones' comic book series, dazzles in its 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation, offering audiences a visual and auditory feast that underscores the film’s high-octane energy. Helmed by Timur Bekmambetov and featuring an ensemble cast led by James McAvoy, Angelina Jolie, and Morgan Freeman, the movie showcases the transformative journey of Wesley (played by McAvoy), from a downtrodden office drone to a lethal assassin under the tutelage of the enigmatic Fox (Jolie) and the commanding Sloan (Freeman). The film's execution is a blend of kinetic editing by David Brenner and dynamic cinematography by Mitchell Amundsen, creating an adrenaline-infused experience that keeps viewers riveted.

The performance aspect cannot be understated, with McAvoy delivering a standout portrayal that mixes vulnerability with burgeoning confidence, marked as one of his defining roles that blends comedy with action seamlessly. Meanwhile, Angelina Jolie’s underutilized but potent presence brings a mix of allure and fierceness to her role, particularly shone through in meticulously choreographed action sequences. The supporting cast, including an early appearance by Chris Pratt, adds depth and humor to the narrative, enhancing the film’s blend of high stakes and personal transformation.

From a technical viewpoint, "Wanted" benefits greatly from its 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation. The visual fidelity elevates Mitchell Amundsen’s cinematography that, while not groundbreaking, is creatively engaging and perfectly suited to the film's over-the-top action sequences. The meticulous production design by John Myhre, combined with Varvara Avdyushko’s costume design, particularly for Jolie’s character, enhances the narrative's aesthetic and thematic elements. Danny Elfman’s score accompanies the on-screen action with an appropriate level of intensity, contributing to the film’s relentless pace. Despite criticisms of its thematic direction emphasizing a skewed male fantasy through violence, "Wanted" remains a vivid, fast-paced action film that benefits from its 4K presentation, emphasizing its technical achievements and standout performances.

Wanted" on 4K UHD Blu-ray presents an exhilarating experience that not just action genre enthusiasts but also admirers of cinematic craftsmanship will enjoy. The performances of James McAvoy, Angelina Jolie, and Morgan Freeman elevate the film considerably, with each bringing their unique flair to the table. McAvoy showcases a compelling range, while Jolie, reveling in her action-packed role, injects a thrilling sense of adventure. Under the direction of Timur Bekmambetov, known for "Night Watch," the film is a testament to his capability to craft visually stunning and engaging sequences that ensure "Wanted" is a delightful watch for action aficionados. The 4K UHD version further magnifies these aspects with its outstanding 2160p presentation, where the film's grain is preserved beautifully, maintaining its original cinematic texture without the hindrance of digital noise reduction or similar issues. This release showcases "Wanted" in a light that surpasses its initial theatrical showing, offering even sharper visuals that highlight the meticulous detail and enhance the viewing experience.

The technical quality of the 4K UHD release is particularly remarkable, as it avoids common pitfalls like digital noise reduction, allowing the film's original grit and vibrancy to shine through. This clarity not only improves upon the theatrical experience but also makes "Wanted" more engaging to watch at home. The choice to preserve the film’s grain and avoid digital enhancements is commendable and shows a dedication to authenticity in home cinema presentations.

In conclusion, "Wanted" on 4K UHD is an essential addition for both fans of the film and collectors of high-quality movie releases. Its enhanced visual clarity and faithful presentation of the film’s original aesthetic make it a standout offering. While some aspects of the film's philosophy may feel dated, the overall experience, bolstered by strong performances and Bekmambetov's dynamic direction, ensures that "Wanted" remains a fun and visually impressive ride. This release not only caters to enthusiasts of the action genre but also serves as a shining example of how to present films in the 4K UHD format.