Stripes 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Sony has truly outdone themselves with the 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation of "Stripes," transforming what was once a disappointing home video track record into a revelation for fans and cinephiles. Meticuously transferred from the original 35mm film using Panavision Panaflex cameras, the film benefits from a 2021 4K rescan and cleanup, presenting a native 3840 x 2160p resolution image in widescreen 1.85:1 aspect ratio. Encoded using the HEVC (H.265) codec for HDR10, this disc showcases 10-bit video depth, High Dynamic Range, and a Wide Colour Gamut (WCG), offering a visual fidelity that remains faithful to the film's original aesthetic yet significantly enhanced. The granular detail captured—from the textures of military uniforms to the urban grittiness of New York—compliments the expanded color palette, enriching the visuals with earthy hues, vibrant explosions, and nuanced flesh tones.

The High Dynamic Range (HDR) brings an entirely new dimension to the film's presentation, optimizing contrast and brightness to deliver deeper blacks and more brilliant whites, which accentuate every scene without ever compromising on shadow detail or saturation. Blacks are richer and deeper than previous editions could offer, effectively eliminating past issues with crush, and adding depth and clarity to darker scenes. Colors pop with newfound vibrancy, from the olive drab of army uniforms to brighter hues that stand out against the film's generally earth-toned aesthetic. A special note must be made of the film grain, which is now beautifully resolved and organic, keeping the filmic look intact while enhancing clarity and detail.

Despite the majority of the content showing improved quality, it's noteworthy that extended edition material exhibits a slight dip in fidelity, due to inherent source limitations. However, this is a minor quibble in what is otherwise a benchmark restoration. Sony’s release stands out for its technical prowess, balancing sharpness and detail with an organic grain structure that hearkens back to its original filmic quality. From massive improvements in color grading and black levels to the tangible details in every frame, "Stripes" on 4K UHD Blu-ray is not just an upgrade but a revitalization of this classic comedy, making it essential for collectors and new viewers alike.

The newly minted Dolby Atmos audio track for the 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Stripes" is a stunning auditory experience, leveraging the full potential of modern home theater systems to provide an enveloping soundscape. This mix does an exemplary job of utilizing not just the traditional front and surround channels but also introducing effective use of height and overhead channels for a truly three-dimensional sound field. From the ambient city sounds in the film's opening scenes to the dynamic chaos of military life, encompassing both the hustle of basic training and the cacophony of an action-packed finale, each scene transitions seamlessly with absolute spatial accuracy. Echoes in large hangars and the directional clarity of dialogue play a significant role, making every moment feel authentic and grounded.

Notably, Elmer Bernstein’s score receives a treatment that allows it to thrive and fill the room, creating an engaging musical backbone that enhances every scene it graces. The Atmos track ensures that even in its most bombastic moments, the music never overwhelms but instead complements the on-screen action. Bass response, while described as limited by some, is impactful when deployed, providing depth to tank movements, gunfire, and explosions. The atmospheric elements, from helicopter rotors above to military vehicles rumbling across the soundscape, are rendered with meticulous detail, ensuring that each element occupies its own distinct space without ever feeling disjointed or overbearing.

The versatility of this Atmos mix is further demonstrated through its handling of both high-intensity sequences and calmer moments. Whether through the bustling environment of a club filled with bass-heavy music or the serene quiet where dialogue takes center stage, the mix maintains fidelity and integrity. Despite some moments of muddiness, as noted by critics, the overall presentation achieves a balance of dynamism and clarity. Surround channels are not merely ancillary but are integral to crafting an immersive experience, from background chatter and environmental sounds to the strategic placement of effects that encapsulate the viewer. It’s evident that significant care was taken to ensure that "Stripes" sounds better than ever before, making it a showcase example of how to rejuvenate classic films for contemporary audiences with cutting-edge audio technology.

The "Stripes" 4K UHD Blu-ray extras offer a rich compilation of both new and legacy content that pays homage to this comedy classic, curated neatly across its UHD and Blu-ray discs. The standout feature is undoubtedly the two-part, 40 Years of Stripes With Bill & Ivan series, presenting a nostalgic reunion between Bill Murray and director Ivan Reitman. Their fond remembrances, coupled with insights from cinematographer Bill Butler, provide a heartwarming look back at the film's enduring legacy. The addition of the 1983 TV version of "Stripes," albeit in standard definition, alongside a collection of deleted and extended scenes, enriches the viewing experience by offering insights into the film's production and alternate versions. While the segregation of extras like the audio commentary featuring Ivan Reitman and Dan Goldberg to the 1080p Blu-ray disc may irk some, the overall package is a commendable effort by Sony to blend insightful retrospectives with valuable archival materials, ensuring that both new and longtime fans of "Stripes" have plenty to appreciate.

Extras included in this disc:

40 Years of Stripes with Bill & Ivan: That’s The Fact Jack!: A reflection on four decades of "Stripes," featuring Bill Murray and Ivan Reitman.

40 Years of Stripes with Bill & Ivan: Lighten Up Francis: The second part offering more in-depth discussion and nostalgia from the film's main figures.

Theatrical Trailer: A newly included high-definition trailer for "Stripes."

Audio Commentary featuring Ivan Reitman and Dan Goldberg (Extended Version Only): In-depth commentary exclusive to the Blu-ray disc.

Stars and Stripes - Part One: The first part of an older making-of documentary, now split for this release.

Stars and Stripes - Part Two: Concluding the look back at the making of "Stripes" with insights into its production.

Deleted & Extended Scenes: A compilation of additional scenes adding depth to the original theatrical release.

1983 TV Version of Stripes: An edited TV-friendly version of the film, presented in standard definition.

The presentation of "Stripes" on 4K UHD Blu-Ray showcases an American comedy classic in unprecedented visual and auditory quality, courtesy of Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. This Ivan Reitman-directed film, starring Bill Murray and Harold Ramis, benefits greatly from a 2160p/HDR video transfer and Dolby Atmos audio, essential upgrades that breathe new life into the 1981 comedy. Originally released at a time when military-themed comedies were a cultural staple, "Stripes" distinguished itself through a combination of sharp wit, slapstick, and the undeniable chemistry between its lead actors. The inclusion of both Theatrical and Extended cuts on the UHD and newly remastered Blu-ray ensures that fans and newcomers alike can appreciate the film's classic gags and improvised brilliance in the highest quality.

"Stripes" seems to epitomize the era's "slobs vs snobs" comedic genre, leveraging Bill Murray's charismatic rebellion against the strictures of army life and society's norms. The film's humor capitalizes on Murray's improvisational skills, complemented by a cast full of vibrant characters portrayed by John Candy, Sean Young, PJ Soles, and others. Despite the varying opinions on director Ivan Reitman's suitability for the project, "Stripes" endures as a testament to the collective comedic talent of its era. Its transition to the 4K UHD format highlights the timeless appeal of its humor while presenting it within the context of modern home cinema technology. The preservation of original technical details in the movie section of this release ensures that enthusiasts experience both the visual and auditory nuances intended by its creators.

The inclusion in Sony's prestigious 'Columbia Classics Collection' underscores "Stripes'" significance in American comedic cinema. While much has changed in the portrayal of military life in popular culture since its release, "Stripes" remains an essential viewing experience. Its move to 4K UHD not only enriches its accessibility to a new generation but also serves as a tribute to a comedic genre that offered laughter as a form of rebellion and commentary. Through meticulous restoration and the inclusion of both cuts of the film, Sony ensures that "Stripes" continues to be celebrated for its contribution to comedy and cinema history.

Stripes," the seminal comedy that marred the landscapes of military humor and the 'slobs vs snobs' genre, makes a triumphant entry into the 4K Ultra-HD Blu-ray arena as part of Sony's Columbia Classics Collection Volume II. The collaboration between comic geniuses Ivan Reitman, Bill Murray, and Harold Ramis proved a enduring formula, delivering a film that marries humor with a touch of rebellion, all while steering clear of overt political messaging. This release not only celebrates the film's legacy four decades on but elevates it with an impeccable 4K HDR10 transfer and a dynamic Dolby Atmos soundtrack, ensuring the visuals and audio are as invigorating and crisp as during its original release.

The technical prowess of this edition cannot be overstated; the native 4K picture dazzles with extraordinary detail, vibrant colors, and deep blacks that maintain an authentic grain structure. The auditory experience is similarly impressive, leveraging the Dolby Atmos track to offer an immersive soundscape that balances effects with realism and clarity. Supplementing the main feature is approximately 45 minutes of newly recorded conversation between Murray and Reitman, providing fresh insights into the making of this classic. Alongside this are a variety of both new and legacy bonus materials that enrich the viewing experience, affirming its position as a must-own within the Columbia Classics Collection.

In conclusion, Sony's 4K Ultra-HD Blu-ray release of "Stripes" stands as a testament to the film's enduring appeal and comedic genius. The presentation upgrades offer viewers the absolute pinnacle of home video quality, both visually and acoustically, faithfully bringing the sardonic humor and spontaneity of the original into the present day. Combined with an impressive array of special features, old and new, this release is highly recommended for both seasoned fans and newcomers alike, securing "Stripes'" place in both cinematic history and 4K collections.