Poltergeist II: The Other Side 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

The 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation of "Poltergeist II: The Other Side" by Scream Factory is a notable upgrade from its predecessors, offering significant improvements in video quality. This release leverages a comprehensive 4K restoration from the original camera negative, encoded in Dolby Vision on a BD-100 (disc size: 72.6 GB), ensuring an impressive visual experience with an average video bitrate of 85.0 Mbps. The colors are notably more vivid and bolder, maintaining a natural look complemented by a thin layer of grain that preserves the film's texture effectively. Black levels are exceptionally deep and crisp when viewed with Dolby Vision or HDR, enhancing the overall contrast and depth of the picture.

Attention to detail is evident in the handling of both the 35 mm anamorphic shots and the 65 mm practical effects. Scenes shot in anamorphic 35 mm maintain their characteristic grain and texture while benefiting from heightened clarity. Practical effects shot in 65 mm exhibit remarkable sharpness and detail, as highlighted by director of photography Andrew Laszlo’s collaboration with Boss Film Corporation for seamless integration of matte shots and elements. However, occasional imperfections, such as small white specks, were noted but do not detract significantly from the viewing experience.

Color timing differences between various home video releases are noteworthy, particularly in the astral dimension sequences. Scream Factory's release adheres to the filmmakers' vision, presenting the desired steely blues, grays, and purples. Skin tones are rendered naturally, and image brightness is balanced well across different scenes, providing a consistent viewing experience. Despite some marginal softness inherent to the source material, the 4K transfer achieves precise detailing and texture, ensuring an overall superior image quality compared to earlier versions.

The 4K UHD Blu-Ray of "Poltergeist II: The Other Side" delivers an engaging auditory experience, offering a choice of three audio tracks on both the UHD and Blu-ray formats: a meticulously crafted Dolby Atmos mix (Dolby TrueHD 7.1 compatible), a robust 5.1 Surround track encoded with DTS-HD Master Audio, and a LaserDisc audio 2.0 mix in DTS-HD MA. The new Dolby Atmos mix, clocking in at a bitrate averaging between 3651 kbps to 5280 kbps on the UHD, presents an immersive soundscape where thunder claps and directional sound effects make a pronounced impact, particularly in scenes like the ancient ritual at Spider Rock. While the bass and fidelity shine brilliantly, the dialogue levels appear inconsistent; for instance, conversations at the roadside diner and Gramma Jess's home sometimes necessitate significant volume adjustments.

The DTS-HD MA 5.1 surround track, having evolved significantly from earlier releases, brings more distinct surround effects to the rear channels, enhancing the experience beyond what the matrixed stereo tracks originally offered. This mix allows environmental sounds such as ambient noises and ghostly whispers to envelop the listener, maintaining consistency in ambiance across various scenes. Notably, Jerry Goldsmith's evocative score, recorded using Sony’s PCM 3324 format and orchestrated under Goldsmith's supervision, retains its richness and depth on this track. Intricately mixed elements, like French Horns along the rears in the Atmos track, underline the comprehensive mixing effort that defines this release.

The upsampled LaserDisc audio 2.0 mix, refined from the original 16-bit to 24-bit format, stays true to its roots while adding a touch of modern clarity. Though comparisons with the '86 and '91 mixes reveal that each has its nuances, the stereo track from '91 thoughtfully balances effects between channels, delivering clear and dynamic soundscapes integral to "Poltergeist II." The attention to detail in this release ensures that listeners will experience both nostalgic fidelity and enhanced auditory realism.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Poltergeist II: The Other Side" delivers a robust set of extras that will appeal to both casual viewers and dedicated fans. Writer/producer Michael Grais provides an introspective commentary, moderated by Michael Felsher, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes dynamics and his collaborative relationships, while David Furtney offers a fan’s perspective in another commentary track. Additionally, insightful interviews with actor Oliver Robins and special effects legends Richard Edlund, Steve Johnson, and Screaming Mad George enrich the understanding of the film’s legacy. H.R. Giger’s artistic contributions are honored through detailed tributes and interviews. Historical context is provided by vintage making-of featurettes and trailers.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary with Writer/Producer Michael Grais: Moderated by Michael Felsher.
• Audio Commentary with Poltergeist II Webmaster David Furtney: Informative fan commentary.
• Robbie's Return: Interview with actor Oliver Robins.
• The Spirit World: Interviews with special effects designers Richard Edlund, Steve Johnson, and Screaming Mad George.
• Ghosts of Giger: Tribute to H.R. Giger.
• They're Back: The Making of Poltergeist II: Original production featurette.
• Monster Shop: Behind-the-scenes featurette.
• Ghostmakers: The Magic of Poltergeist 2: 1985 featurette on special effects.
• Theatrical Trailer: MGM's original teaser trailer.
• TV Spots: Four TV spots.
• Still Galleries: Montage of behind-the-scenes photos and memorabilia.

"Poltergeist II: The Other Side" attempts to build upon the original's spectral intrigue but ultimately dilutes its mythology. Where the first film left the nature of the Freelings' haunted home satisfyingly ambiguous, the sequel delves into an unnecessary backstory involving a doomsday cult. This shift in narrative focus transforms the story from a commentary on reckless land development into a somewhat mundane tale of vengeful spirits. Craig T. Nelson's horrifying encounter — including a nauseating, well-executed practical effects sequence where he expels a blob that morphs into the antagonist — exemplifies the era's effects craftsmanship, highlighted again during the film’s extraordinary, eerie finale set in a purgatorial void.

Despite the narrative shortcomings, "Poltergeist II" excels visually. The film's practical effects shine, bringing tangible horror elements that stand out amid its physical and supernatural spectacles. Julian Beck delivers a chilling performance as the sinister preacher Kane, his frail, cancer-ridden appearance adding a layer of authenticity to his role. Conversely, Will Sampson's portrayal of a benevolent Native American providing counterbalance adds cultural depth and offers pathways of healing for ancestral transgressions tied to the sacred burial grounds.

However, where "Poltergeist II" struggles is in expanding its characters' arcs or enriching their narrative. The screenplay retains the middle-class milieu but fails to evolve the Freelings dynamically; they seem to repeat their ordeal rather than grow from it. Diane (JoBeth Williams) transitions from embracing mysterious occurrences with curiosity to outwardly fleeing them without significant development. Ultimately, while delivering sound execution in terms of visual effects and performances, "Poltergeist II" doesn't explore its newfound ground with sufficient originality or depth to justify its existence beyond a studio obligation.

Poltergeist II: The Other Side arrives on 4K UHD Blu Ray with a visually impressive transfer that breathes new life into the 1986 horror classic. The 4K remaster presents a more vibrant, dynamic picture, with enhanced clarity and detail that surpasses prior home media releases. Colors are vivid, adding depth to the already effective practical effects, while the improved contrast showcases the film’s eerie atmosphere.

The auditory experience is anchored by a new Dolby Atmos mix, delivering immersive and powerful audio that heightens the film's scare factor. However, dialogue can occasionally be subdued compared to other sound effects, which might require volume adjustments during quieter scenes. The inclusion of one of the LaserDisc audio mixes offers a preferable alternative for those prioritizing clearer dialogue. All previously available extras are here, ensuring a comprehensive package for fans, though it lacks any extended or alternate cuts of the film.

Conclusively, this release is an excellent restoration of a well-regarded sequel. The visual and audio enhancements significantly uplift the viewing experience, making it a must-own for horror aficionados. While it doesn't include the rumored 130-minute version, its comprehensive extras and overall presentation earn it a very solid recommendation.