Purple Rain 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

The 40th-anniversary 4K UHD presentation of "Purple Rain" is a technical marvel, built from an 8K scan of the 35mm Original Camera Negative (OCN) and color graded in High Dynamic Range (HDR10). Framed at its original theatrical aspect ratio of 1.85:1, this new remaster offers an unparalleled viewing experience, with a pristine and damage-free image that showcases fine details and natural grain retention. The sharp definition seen throughout, especially in close-ups and mid-range shots, highlights the quality of the transfer and offers a depth not previously seen in earlier releases. Nightclub scenes and dim interiors benefit from deep black levels and fine shadow details, showcasing a dramatic improvement over previous editions.

Colors in this 4K release are another significant highlight. With a focus on remaining true to the original cinematographic intent, the film's vibrant blues, purples, reds, and greens are rendered with richness and intensity. Bright stage lights and neon signage pop vividly, while skin tones remain accurate throughout the diverse lighting environments. However, some caution about HDR10 is warranted as the brightest reds occasionally show slight color bleeding. Despite this, the overall color balance is excellent, giving the film a visually authentic tone. The remastered sections drawn from a workprint due to lost negatives do momentarily dip in quality but do not detract significantly from the overall experience.

Finally, from a technical perspective, the use of a dual-layered (66GB) disc ensures a high bit rate in the mid to high 50Mbps range without noticeable compression artifacts. This careful encoding strategy preserves the integrity of the detailed 4K image. This release represents an exceptional blend of historical fidelity and modern clarity, making it the definitive version of "Purple Rain" for home viewing, surpassing all previous editions and delivering a truly cinematic quality.

The audio presentation of the 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Purple Rain" has been meticulously restored to provide an exceptionally rich listening experience. Offered in both a new DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix and the original DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Stereo, the updated 5.1 surround track has been significantly reworked from the original 35mm magnetic film elements containing separate dialogue, music, and effects (DME) tracks. The enhancements offer a dynamic and vibrant soundstage, particularly shining during the film’s numerous musical numbers, which envelop the viewer in a concert-like atmosphere with precise mid-range imaging and deep, robust bass that underscores performances.

Dialogues are impressively clean and maintain clarity even against the powerful backdrop of the energetic soundtrack, with the front-heavy mix ensuring intelligibility throughout. The newly remastered 5.1 mix provides improvements primarily in the front soundstage, giving the music a greater presence and depth while subtly utilizing surround channels to create an immersive ambiance. Low-frequency extension is notably better, adding room-shaking depth to the music, particularly during key musical moments like "Let's Go Crazy" and "The Beautiful Ones," enhancing the overall impact.

For purists, the original Dolby Stereo mix is preserved in lossless DTS-HD MA 2.0, ensuring an authentically nostalgic listening option. Overall, this audio treatment does justice to "Purple Rain’s" iconic soundtrack, with a precise and detailed soundstage, clear dialogues, and powerful music reproduction, all contributing to an audio experience that far surpasses previous home video releases.

The "Purple Rain" 4K UHD Blu Ray disc unfortunately offers a reduced selection of extras compared to prior editions, though it still includes some valuable content. The commentary by director Albert Magnoli, producer Robert Cavallo, and cinematographer Donald Thorin affords listeners comprehensive insights into the film's production nuances, including location identification, scene lighting, and Prince's disciplined approach. However, it lacks new updates and recycles older material, notably losing several previously included featurettes and promotional content. The singular featurette, "First Avenue: The Road to Pop Royalty," offers fascinating interviews with influential figures from the music scene. Included music videos capture the essence of 80s music culture, providing a nostalgic throwback for fans.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary by director Albert Magnoli, producer Robert Cavallo and cinematographer Donald E. Thorin: In-depth production insights.
• First Avenue: The Road to Pop Royalty: Featurette about the iconic nightclub.
• Let’s Go Crazy: Music video.
• Take Me with U: Music video.
• When Doves Cry: Music video.
• I Would Die 4 U/Baby I’m a Star: Music video.
• Purple Rain: Music video.
• Jungle Love: Music video.
• The Bird: Music video.
• Sex Shooter: Music video.

Purple Rain" tells the story of The Kid (Prince), a burgeoning Minneapolis musician dealing with personal turmoil while striving for musical success. By channeling his frustrations into performances at the First Avenue club, he escapes the abusive home life imposed by his violent father (Clarence Williams III). Amidst his rise, The Kid encounters the captivating singer Apollonia (Apollonia Kotero), which sparks a tumultuous relationship challenged by rival musician Morris (Morris Day), who seeks both to overshadow The Kid's success and win over Apollonia. The narrative serves as a semi-autobiographical exploration of Prince's own journey and struggles.

The 4K UHD Blu-Ray release by Warner Bros. marks a significant visual and auditory enhancement over previous editions. The 2160p/HDR10 transfer revitalizes the film’s distinctive 1980s aesthetic, complementing the remastered 5.1 lossless audio mix while also preserving the original theatrical 2.0 audio for purists. Though this new release omits some extras found in older editions, it compensates with a sharper, more vibrant presentation that underscores Prince’s magnetic on-stage presence and the energy of his performances. However, it’s important to acknowledge that while the film excels musically, its narrative and acting—particularly from Prince—are often criticized for their lackluster execution.

Despite the criticism, "Purple Rain" remains a cultural touchstone, encapsulating Prince’s artistic prowess at a pivotal moment in his career. The film functions more as an extended music video than a traditional narrative, with its primary allure rooted in the electrifying musical numbers and the raw emotional energy Prince brings to his performance. The supporting cast, including Day and Jerome Benton, provide memorable comic relief and dynamic interactions. For fans of 80s rock musicals, this UHD Blu-Ray edition offers an exceptional viewing experience that celebrates the enduring legacy of Prince and "Purple Rain.

Warner Bros. Home Entertainment delivers "Purple Rain" in 4K UHD, commemorating the film's enduring legacy with a visually stunning presentation. As a musical romantic drama and Prince’s first acting role, "Purple Rain" holds a special place in pop culture history. The 40th-anniversary release features a pristine 4K HDR10 transfer that significantly upgrades the film's video quality, ensuring it remains a must-own for fans of both Prince and the era-defining film. The DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack, though not in Atmos, offers a robust and immersive audio experience, capturing the electrifying energy of Prince’s performances.

Despite its impressive A/V improvements, this release has notable shortcomings. It misses out on extended or new bonus features and fails to retain some from earlier editions. The digital version also lacks extras, making it less appealing to long-time fans already owning previous Blu-ray editions. This omission detracts from the overall package, especially considering the milestone celebration of such an iconic film. However, the excellent 4K visual upgrade does manage to redeem this release to a significant extent.

In conclusion, "Purple Rain" in 4K UHD is a superior visual experience that surpasses previous versions and should appeal to ardent admirers of Prince's work. For first-time buyers or die-hard fans, this edition is highly recommended despite some missing supplemental content. It stands as a testament to Prince’s genius and his legendary impact on both music and film. While not perfect, it’s an essential upgrade for those looking to celebrate "Purple Rain's" 40-year legacy in the best possible quality currently available.