The Last Waltz 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

The Criterion Collection's release of "The Last Waltz" on 4K UHD Blu-Ray marks a significant improvement over previous home video editions, presenting a meticulous 4K digital restoration created from the original 35mm camera negative. Scanned at a 16-bit 4K resolution using a Lasergraphics Director film scanner at Roundabout Entertainment in Burbank, California, and using a 35mm print from Sikelia Productions as a color reference, the result is an exceptional visual presentation. The Dolby Vision HDR on the 4K Blu-Ray heightens the visual experience, offering a wide range of vivid colors and deeper black levels, not to mention an impressive delineation of detail and a balanced grain structure that maintains the film's original cinematic texture.

Comparative analysis of this latest restoration with earlier releases, such as the Region-B Blu-Ray by Eureka Entertainment, showcases the substantial enhancements made in clarity, depth, and color reproduction. The native 4K resolution reveals finer details with greater balance between the concert footage and close-ups, while HDR handling produces more nuanced and richer visual elements, markedly improving over MGM's older master's lighting and color saturation. Despite some minor light fluctuations in darker scenes when downscaled to 1080p on the standard Blu-Ray disc, the overall shadow definition and color balance remain superior. This demonstrates not only the technical prowess employed in the restoration process but also how meticulously Scorsese and his team aimed to preserve the film's authentic visual essence.

The upgrade to this 4K edition is overwhelmingly recommended for both enthusiasts and new viewers alike. The presence of natural grain, bold hues, and exceptional shadow details offer a gloriously immersive viewing experience. The careful attention to maintaining the organic feel of the original footage, combined with state-of-the-art restoration techniques, ensures that "The Last Waltz" shines like never before, solidifying its place as a seminal piece in concert film history. Moreover, with Region-Free availability for the 4K disc (though Blu-ray is Region-A locked), accessibility is broadened, enabling a wider audience to enjoy this pristine restoration.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "The Last Waltz" stands out not only for its visual fidelity but also for its exceptional audio offerings, each designed to cater to the diverse preferences of audiophiles. With three audio tracks available—DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 (48kHz, 24-bit) from 2001, DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 (48kHz, 24-bit) from 2001, and the original LPCM 2.0 (48kHz, 24-bit) from 1978—viewers have the luxury of choice. The comprehensive approach ensures a respectful nod to purists favoring original soundscapes, while also accommodating those seeking a more enveloping audio experience. Despite the options, it consistently emerges that the 5.1 track, meticulously remixed from the original two-inch 24-track magnetic masters by Ted Hall with supervision from Robbie Robertson, commands attention as the superior listening mode.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track breathes life into the performance with remarkable clarity and depth, making a compelling case for its selection as the preferred auditory experience. The mix leverages every channel to craft a vibrantly immersive atmosphere that places the listener center-stage amidst the cinematic concert's various instrumental solos and vocal performances. Enhanced rear speaker engagement and robust bass frequencies underscore the musicians’ virtuosity, while maintaining crystal-clear vocal quality and an impressive dynamic range free from distortion—a feat that celebrates the concert's energetic spirit without compromising on audio purity.

Alternate tracks, despite their merit, play a secondary role to the standout 5.1 remix. The original 1978 LPCM and the 2.0 DTS-HD mix from 2001 offer fidelity and dimensionality, underscoring the historical value and craftsmanship of past eras. Nevertheless, for an encompassing sonic journey that mirrors the grandiosity and intricacy of "The Last Waltz," the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 option not only meets but exceeds expectations, solidifying its reputation as not just an auditory enhancement but an essential component of the viewing experience. This carefully curated array of audio options underscores an unwavering commitment to quality and choice, allowing each viewer to navigate their unique path through this timeless musical documentary.

The 4K UHD Blu Ray extra presentation of "The Last Waltz" brings an enriching depth to this iconic concert documentary, with a focus on the creation, music, and backstage narratives that shaped the final performance of The Band. Noteworthy is the inclusion of dual vintage audio commentaries; one features director Martin Scorsese and musician/producer Robbie Robertson dissecting the project's conception, its technical facets, and the cultural backdrop of the era, while the other includes members of The Band and crew sharing insights on performance styles, song origination, and live sound management. Additionally, exclusive to Criterion, a compelling new program with Scorsese, interviews from 1978 and 2002 providing historical context, an enthralling jam session outtake capturing a rare gathering of music legends, alongside the original theatrical trailer and TV spot, all serve to deepen appreciation for this musical milestone and its significance in rock history.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary One: Vintage audio commentary with Martin Scorsese and Robbie Robertson.
• Commentary Two: Vintage audio commentary featuring The Band members and crew.
• Martin Scorsese and David Fear: A new program where Scorsese discusses The Last Waltz.
• Martin Scorsese and Robbie Robertson, 1978: Archival interview broadcast on Canadian Broadcasting Corporation.
• Revisiting The Last Waltz: A featurette focusing on the genesis of The Last Waltz.
• Archival Outtake: Jam Session 2: Features rare archival footage from The Last Waltz.
• Trailer: Original theatrical trailer.
• TV Spot: Archival TV spot for The Last Waltz.
• Leaflet: Including critic Amanda Petrusich's essay and technical credits.

Martin Scorsese’s “The Last Waltz,” a masterpiece documenting the final concert of The Band, is given new life on 4K UHD Blu-ray. This Criterion release, free of regional blockade and rich in supplemental features, elevates the original recording with an unparalleled visual and auditory experience. Scorsese’s direction expertly captures the essence of the event, blending the monumental performances with intimate interviews, creating a seamless narrative that transcends the typical concert film. The inclusion of legendary performers such as Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, and Joni Mitchell not only underscores the historical significance of this event but also enhances the film's allure, allowing it to stand as a monumental tribute to an era of music.

At the heart of this release is the stunning visual quality that 4K UHD and Dolby Vision HDR bring to the forefront. The meticulous work by chief cinematographer Michael Chapman, along with contributions from Vilmos Zsigmond and László Kovács, presents an array of memorable images that are now further enriched by the clarity and color depth of this format. The auditory experience is equally compelling, with options for DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, as well as 2.0 stereo and LPCM tracks, ensuring that the viewer can experience the concert with impeccable sound quality.

“The Last Waltz” is not just a film about an event; it is an intimate exploration of music, creativity, and camaraderie. It showcases Scorsese's ability to meld music with cinematic storytelling in a way that feels both grandiose and personal. The performances, especially those by Levon Helm and special guests like Muddy Waters and Neil Young, resonate with raw power and emotion, accentuated by Scorsese’s innovative filming techniques. This 4K UHD rendition ensures that both existing fans and new audiences will continue to appreciate this timeless classic, preserving its legacy for future generations to celebrate and enjoy.

The release of "The Last Waltz" on 4K UHD Blu-ray by Criterion marks a significant moment for fans of classic rockumentaries and aficionados of superior home video presentation. This Criterion edition, featuring a state-of-the-art 4K restoration completed under the watchful eye of Martin Scorsese, offers an unparalleled viewing experience. The enhanced clarity and detail achieved through this restoration process honor the film's monumental legacy while providing a fresh perspective on its storied concert. Supported by Dolby Vision HDR, the visual presentation is both gorgeous and technically impressive, capturing the vibrant energy of The Band's farewell performance with striking luminosity.

The auditory experience is equally commendable. With a DTS-HD MA track, the remastered audio breathes new life into the classic tracks, enveloping viewers in a sound that is as close to live as possible from the comfort of their living rooms. Accompanying the film is a thoughtful selection of supplements that provide additional context and deepen the appreciation for this groundbreaking concert film. Moreover, the anticipation and hope for future restorations of similar importance, as reflected in dreams for a Criterion restoration of Depeche Mode: Devotional's 30th anniversary, underscore the impact and potential of such high-quality releases.

In conclusion, Criterion's release of "The Last Waltz" in 4K UHD Blu-ray is an essential addition to the collections of film and music enthusiasts alike. Its masterful restoration, stunning visual presentation enhanced by Dolby Vision HDR, and immersive audio experience set a new benchmark for home video releases. This edition not only pays fitting tribute to the original masterpiece but also raises expectations for the future of cinematic restorations. Whether revisiting the film or experiencing it for the first time, viewers are in for an exemplary viewing experience that redefines what classic concerts can look and sound like in the modern era. Highly recommended.