Ghoulies II 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

The 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation of Ghoulies II by MVD Visual's MVD Rewind imprint is a notable upgrade, featuring an HEVC / H.265 encoded 2160p transfer with a 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The primary source used for this release is a 2024 4K restoration of the original camera negative, which offers a substantial improvement over previous editions that utilized 2K scans. This meticulous restoration showcases impressive detail and clarity, despite occasional instances of grain, which are more apparent due to the enhanced resolution. The application of HDR10 and Dolby Vision significantly enhances the film's visual dynamism by amplifying the often lavish carnival palette, especially the vibrant reds, blues, purples, and the striking combination of purples and greens.

The high-resolution 4K transfer preserves the natural look and texture of the film, captured originally on 35 mm film by cinematographer Sergio Salvati using Arriflex cameras and spherical lenses. The transfer eliminates any frame damage, offering a pure viewing experience with no unwanted processing artifacts. The HDR improvements are particularly noticeable in shadow detail, which enriches many dimly lit or nighttime sequences. The precise color grading ensures that flesh tones remain accurate, and an elevation in primary colors infuses additional vibrancy throughout.

Furthermore, MVD's release includes both the 90-minute PG-13 theatrical cut and the 91-minute unrated cut, housed on a single 100GB triple-layered Ultra HD disc. This package marks a departure from prior limitations due to rights issues and provides an inclusive offering for fans. The modern MGM logo that opens the film is an added touch indicative of the comprehensive overhaul this edition has received. Overall, this release leverages advanced technologies such as Dolby Vision to provide a viewing experience with enhanced contrast and brightness that makes Ghoulies II more visually engaging than ever before.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Ghoulies II" by MVD features a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track, differing from the previous 1080p disc's LPCM 2.0 option. Shout! Factory’s earlier releases included both 5.1 and 2.0 DTS-HD Master Audio tracks, yet the current choice returns to the source audio without unnecessary augmentation. This change delivers a nicely spacious and directional sound experience. From the film's opening scene, where a semi-truck careens across the frame from left to right, the panning effects are evidently present, emphasizing subtle details throughout.

The dialog, effects, and score balance without major issues, offering an overall fidelity that, while not groundbreaking, is more than sufficient for a satisfying viewing experience. There is some minor sibilance detectable in the dialogue, although it’s not overly intrusive and doesn’t significantly detract from the listening experience. The stereo movement provides a vivid approximation of the film’s original Ultra Stereo release, ensuring that both channels are actively engaged, with a slight preference toward the left channel. Optional English subtitles are available for viewers who desire them.

In summary, the LPCM stereo option handles spatial audio effectively with a surprisingly wide channel split. Despite occasional scratchiness in the dialogue, the presentation retains clarity and engages the surrounding speakers suitably well given its source material constraints. The film's minimal score shows a bit of range at its best moments, enhancing the audio landscape for viewers who appreciate fine nuances. This release's audio track stands as a testament to returning to original sound mixes, presenting "Ghoulies II" with satisfactory precision.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Ghoulies II" offers a comprehensive selection of extras that greatly enhance the viewing experience. Dennis Paoli's introduction, available on both the 1080p and UHD discs, mainly defends the use of practical effects over CGI. The "More Toilets, More Terror" featurette provides amusing behind-the-scenes insights with multiple cast and crew interviews. Additionally, Paoli elaborates on the film in an extended interview titled "Under a Magic Moon." The extras package is rounded out with deleted scenes, a detailed photo gallery, and several trailers. Notably absent are features like WASP’s "Scream Until You Like It" music video and recent podcast interviews with Kenneth J. Hall and Phil Fondacaro. The disc packaging includes reversible artwork and a mini-poster.

Extras included in this disc:

Introduction by Dennis Paoli: Defense of practical effects vs. CGI. Theatrical Trailer: Original trailer for the film. More Toilets, More Terror: The Making of Ghoulies II: Background info and interviews. Under a Magic Moon: Extended interview with Dennis Paoli. Deleted Scenes: Unrated trims not in the PG-13 cut. Photo Gallery: Compilation of behind-the-scenes stills and posters. Trailers: Includes trailers for "Ghoulies" and other MVD Visual releases.

MVD Visual's MVD Rewind has released Ghoulies II in 4K UHD, following previous iterations by Shout! Factory and Full Moon Features. This marks the first time the sequel has been offered in such a high-resolution format, satisfying fans' longstanding curiosity about its absence. Known as one of Empire Pictures' key moneymakers from the mid-80s, Ghoulies II showcases the franchise's enduring ability to generate revenue. Primarily remembered as part of Charles Band's infamous cash cow, this sequel capitalizes on its predecessor's successful formula.

Ghoulies II, released in 1987, plays on themes prevalent during the '80s, such as the Satanic Panic, briefly addressing contemporary concerns like "heavy metal devil music" towards its climax. With creative exploitation of pentagrams and ancient spells, the film attempts to ride the wave of public paranoia. Although not as successful as its predecessor or enough to guarantee theatrical follow-ups—the third installment went straight to video—it remains a noteworthy part of the franchise. Fans and collectors will appreciate this meticulous presentation, providing an exceptional visual upgrade to the notorious cult classic.

Ghoulies II may not be a cinematic masterpiece, but it offers a breezy and entertaining diversion firmly in line with the lo-fi charm that characterizes many Charles Band productions. This new 4K UHD release significantly upgrades the video quality, offering a crisp and vibrant viewing experience that surpasses previous 1080p editions. The audio remains consistently good, maintaining the standard of the original Blu-ray release. Additionally, this package includes fun and nostalgic supplements, making it an attractive option for fans of the film.

The extras included in this set mirror those of the previous MVD Blu-ray release. Highlights include Aine Leicht's "More Toilets, More Terror," with insightful interviews from producer Charles Band, actors Donnie Jeffcoat and Kerry Remsen, and special effects makeup artist Gino Crognale. Screenwriter Dennis Paoli is also featured in "Under a Magic Moon" and the introduction segments. Moreover, the deleted scenes provide unrated trims not available in the PG-13 version, and the photo gallery includes 22 behind-the-scenes photos and posters. However, it’s worth noting that some international extras, like the WASP music video for "Scream Until You Like It," are missing in this collection.

In conclusion, Ghoulies II benefits greatly from its 4K UHD treatment, offering improved video quality while retaining solid audio. Fans of this cult classic will undoubtedly appreciate the comprehensive extras package, even with a few missing pieces. This release stands out as the preferred edition for anyone looking to revisit or discover the quirky appeal of Ghoulies II.