Sound of Metal 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Criterion's 4K Blu-ray release of "Sound of Metal" demonstrates a commendable effort in bringing this striking narrative to life through its visual presentation. Derived from the 35mm original camera negatives using a Scanity film scanner, the film's 4K digital transfer exhibits an authenticity and clarity that enhances its immersive storytelling. The combination of Kodak 250D VISION3 5207 and 500T VISION3 5219 film stocks are pivotal in delivering the movie's nuanced textures and depths, particularly visible in its HDR (high dynamic range) presentation on the 4K Blu-ray disc. This visual fidelity is further supported by a meticulous color grade executed by Brandon Chavez at Loom LLC, Los Angeles, ensuring that natural primaries are beautifully enhanced, thereby complementing the film's thematic essence and emotional landscapes.

Upon comparison between the native 4K and the 1080p Blu-ray presentations, it's evident that the superior dynamic range of the 4K version offers not just increased clarity but also a richer, more vibrant color palette. This distinction is especially notable in scenes illuminated by natural light, where the depth perception and detail are significantly augmented in the 4K rendition. Although the Blu-ray presentation still maintains commendable quality with a good color balance, it inevitably falls short of capturing the depth and nuance available in its 4K counterpart.

Technical aspects aside, it's the seamless blend of exceptional sharpness without sacrificing the natural, cinematic quality that stands out. Image stability and the absence of digital artifacts contribute to an organic viewing experience, particularly on larger screens where the fluidity and balance of visuals are paramount. While both formats have their merits, the 4K Blu-ray disc unequivocally offers a more profound viewing experience, showcasing the film’s intricate details and emotional resonances in ways previously unattainable.

The 4K UHD Blu-Ray release of "Sound of Metal" features an audio presentation that is both technically proficient and emotionally compelling, particularly notable for its English and French DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 tracks. The clarity and distinctiveness of the soundtrack are commendable, providing a seamless auditory experience that greatly enhances the storytelling. Additionally, the inclusion of a Descriptive Dolby Digital 5.1 track acknowledges the importance of accessibility, allowing a wider audience to appreciate the film's nuanced sound design. The optional English SDH subtitles for the main feature further exemplify the release's commitment to inclusivity.

Central to the film's impact is its unique soundtrack, which plays a pivotal role in conveying the protagonist's journey through hearing loss and his subsequent adaptation to a world of new sounds and silences. The audio effects employed are nothing short of remarkable, offering a depth and intensity that draw viewers deeper into the protagonist’s emotional landscape. The care taken in capturing these sounds ensures that every whisper, echo, and silence is felt, making the protagonist's internal strife and eventual acceptance palpably vivid.

The technical execution of the audio tracks is flawless, with no detectable anomalies or distortions that might detract from the immersive experience. Dialogues are crisp and articulate, ensuring that every word is heard with clarity and precision. This meticulous attention to audio quality not only serves to elevate the narrative but also sets a benchmark for home entertainment releases. In summary, the audio presentation of "Sound of Metal" on 4K UHD Blu-Ray is a masterclass in how sound can be leveraged to enhance storytelling, making it a vital component of the viewing experience.

The extra presentation of the 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Sound of Metal" offers a compelling glimpse into the creative and technical processes behind the film, though it is notably devoid of bonus features on the 4K disc itself. The standard Blu-ray disc fills this gap with an array of carefully curated content, including an enlightening program with Darius Marder and Derek Cianfrance discussing the film's conception, a poignant exploration of its groundbreaking sound design with Nicolas Becker, and a unique music video by Abraham Marder. These extras, accompanied by a thoughtful essay in the included leaflet, enrich the viewing experience by providing deeper insights into the film's innovative approach to sound and storytelling. The direct and professional inclusion of technical details, such as subtitles options and production dates, ensures that enthusiasts and cinephiles alike receive a comprehensive understanding of the work behind this cinematic masterpiece.

Extras included in this disc:

• Dairus Marder and Derek Cianfrance: A discussion on the conception and development of Sound of Metal.
• Trailer: The original trailer for Sound of Metal.
• Sound Design: An exploration of the film's unique sound design.
• Music Video Green: A music video for Abraham Marder's song featured in the film.
• Behind the Scenes: Interviews with the film's key contributors.
• Leaflet: An illustrated leaflet featuring an essay and technical credits.

Darius Marder's Sound of Metal (2019), released on 4K Blu-ray/Blu-ray by Criterion, is an intricate portrayal of Reuben (Riz Ahmed), a drummer who abruptly loses his hearing. The narrative is not just about loss but an exploration of identity, resilience, and transformation amidst adversity. Unlike Michael Dowse's mockumentary It's All Gone Pete Tong, which whimsically follows DJ Frankie Wilde's fictional deafness journey with humor and exaggeration, Sound of Metal navigates Reuben's challenges with a more grounded and poignant approach. Both films, however, delve into the personal awakenings of their protagonists through deafness, albeit with differing narrative vehicles — one through mockumentary satire, the other a gritty realist drama."

"Marder’s film is bolstered by its technical prowess, notably the sound design by Nicolas Becker, which immerses the audience in Reuben’s auditory experience, providing a profound insight into his world. This, coupled with Riz Ahmed’s compelling performance, masterfully conveys the desperation and denial followed by acceptance and adaptation. The film contrasts sharply with It's All Gone Pete Tong's comedic tone, presenting a narrative that feels both intimate and universal. Reuben's journey takes him from the highs of his music career to the lows of grappling with sudden deafness, leading him to a commune that promises a new perspective on life. The commune sequences offer a nuanced look at deaf culture and the idea of 'fixing' deafness, themes not deeply explored in Wilde's more fantastical recovery."

"The film does not shy away from the complexities of its protagonist's decisions, especially the controversial choice to leave the commune in pursuit of cochlear implants — a decision that starkly contrasts with the communal ethos of acceptance and adaptation. This narrative choice not only highlights the tensions within the deaf community regarding cochlear implants but also underscores the film’s broader questions about identity, belonging, and the essence of communication. Sound of Metal transcends the mere experience of sound loss to ponder deeper existential queries, making it a significant addition to cinema that chronicles the human condition through the lens of sensory impairment.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation of "Sound of Metal" delivers a riveting visual and auditory experience, yet it doesn't fully escape the trappings of its narrative decisions. The film navigates through the life of a drummer confronting the harsh reality of losing his hearing. While the premise promises an intense journey, certain plot choices—such as the protagonist's decision to join and remain in a commune despite clear opportunities to seek alternative solutions for his deteriorating condition—raise questions regarding the credibility of his actions. These narrative choices seem to serve the film's thematic ambitions but at the expense of believability. Despite these concerns, the performance delivered is exceptionally compelling, anchoring the film with a sense of gravitas that almost masks its dramaturgical flaws.

Notably, comparisons with "It's All Gone Pete Tong" highlight the script's perceived shortcomings, suggesting a struggle in "Sound of Metal" to blend its dramatic elements naturally within its storyline. This observation suggests a dissonance between the film's intention to portray a genuine struggle and its execution, which some may find too orchestrated or lacking in spontaneity. However, for enthusiasts eager to immerse themselves in the unique sensory world the film aspires to create—particularly in the outstanding clarity and depth offered by its 4K UHD format—these criticisms may not detract significantly from the overall viewing experience.

In conclusion, "Sound of Metal" on 4K UHD Blu-ray is recommended for its passionate audience, who will likely appreciate the film's technical excellence and strong performances, despite narrative missteps. It stands as a testament to the challenges and triumphs in portraying deeply human experiences on screen, albeit with a script that sometimes feels at odds with its authentic aspirations.