Supercop 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

88 Films has masterfully delivered the 4K UHD presentation of "Police Story III: Supercop," employing an HEVC / H.265 encoded 2160p transfer that exhibits a keen attention to restoration and detail. Shot on 35mm film and finished photochemically, this release benefits from a 4K Digital Intermediate of the original camera negative's restoration, presenting the film in a crisp 2.39:1 aspect ratio. The package includes both the original Hong Kong version and the US Dimension Films release, running at 96 minutes and 30 seconds, and 90 minutes and 42 seconds respectively. The transfer, executed by Filmfinity and encoded by David Mackenzie of Fidelity in Motion, showcases an impressive dynamic range with HDR10+ and Dolby Vision options, enhancing the visuals without overwhelming the source material. The colors are meticulously replicated, with a brighter and slightly more yellowish hue compared to other releases, offering a vivid palette that particularly makes outdoor scenes pop. Texture and detail are pronounced across the board, with wide shots being just as sharp as close-ups.

The incorporation of Dolby Vision brings a sophisticated layering of contrast to "Police Story III," enriching scenes with ample depth while carefully balancing black levels to add boldness without crush. This enhancement shines in scenes where contrast is pivotal, like the electrifying glow of tasers, providing a visual treat that complements the action-packed narrative. Grain handling is respectful to its source, presenting a chunkier appearance in darker sequences without detracting from the overall clarity. This approach to grain alongside selective color grading contributes to a faithful yet fresh viewing experience of the classic action film.

While the package itself may not delve into extensive details about the technical specifics of the transfer, it's evident that significant care has gone into this 4K UHD presentation. The preservation of details, even when increasing resolution brings to light some focus issues and anamorphic oddities, demonstrates a commitment to quality. The careful calibration of colors, contrast, and grain results in a presentation that not only showcases the meticulous restoration work done by Filmfinity but also highlights the director of photography Ardy Lam's original vision, making "Police Story III: Supercop" in 4K UHD a definitive viewing experience for fans and newcomers alike.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Police Story III: Supercop" presents a mixed bag in terms of audio offerings across its various versions, with a notable disparity in experience between the original Hong Kong cut and the U.S. version. For the Hong Kong cut, enthusiasts are treated to an array of sound options, including a Cantonese Dolby Atmos track, Cantonese DTS-HD 2.0 Mono, a Cantonese DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Home Video Mix, and an English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Mono dub. The U.S. version simplifies matters somewhat with a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track in both English and Cantonese, alongside a 2.0 Mono variant for each language.

The Dolby Atmos offering is particularly laudable for its dynamism during action sequences, elevating the film's high-octane moments with enhanced crashes and explosions, alongside convincingly natural dialogue. However, the mix's treatment of the score leaves something to be desired, lacking discreet channel utilization which results in a less immersive auditory landscape. This issue extends to some environmental sounds, which are not as spatially distributed as one might expect from an Atmos track. The mono tracks, while faithfully reproducing the film’s original and alternate scores (with nods to Danny Elfman's work on Batman for the original version), offer a more consistent auditory experience that respects the film's sonic legacy.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track on the U.S. cut, while providing a sense of spaciousness, disappointingly renders dialogue as if through an auditory chasm, detaching it from the ambient sounds and music. Adding to the intricacies are the different subtitle options available for each version, enhancing accessibility. Despite these hitches, all tracks ensure the integrity of music cues and sound effects are maintained, offering a solid, if somewhat uneven, auditory experience across this iconic action film’s 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation.

The 4K UHD and 1080p Blu-ray editions of "Supercop" cater to fans and collectors alike, boasting a comprehensive collection of extras that enhance the viewing experience. Both discs feature the Original Hong Kong Version and the U.S. Version of the film, with unique supplemental material across formats. The newly recorded audio commentary by Frank Djeng offers insightful dives into the film’s production, differing from the commentary found on previous releases. Interviews with main cast members including Jackie Chan and Michelle Yeoh, as well as director Stanley Tong, delve into their experiences and the creation of iconic stunts, while a special focus on Ken Lo highlights the teamwork behind Chan's daring feats. Outtakes and behind-the-scenes footage provide a silent but compelling look at the film’s production, coupled with a variety of trailers and a unique Guy Laroche commercial featuring Chan and Yeoh. This edition stands out with its high-quality 4K presentation, complementing its extensive extras with striking packaging, including new artwork, a perfect bound book, and replica lobby cards for a definitive collector’s item.

Extras included in this disc:

• Original Hong Kong Version and U.S. Version - Supercop: Choose between the versions directly from the menu.
• Audio Commentary by Frank Djeng: A new, detailed exploration of the film by the Hong Kong cinema expert.
• Dancing With Death: Michelle Yeoh discusses her career and stunts.
• The Stuntmaster General: An interview with director Stanley Tong.
• The Fall Guy: Featuring Jackie Chan’s training partner Ken Lo.
• Stanley Tong Interview (2004): Recollections of the film.
• Outtakes and Behind the Scenes: Nearly an hour of additional footage set to the film's music.
• Hong Kong Trailer, English Trailer, U.S. Theatrical Teaser, U.S. Theatrical Trailer, U.S. TV Spots, U.S. Video Screener Promo, Japanese Teaser: A comprehensive collection of promotional material.
• Guy Laroche 1984 Commercial: A unique commercial featuring Jackie Chan & Michelle Yeoh.

Supercop," the third installment in the iconic Police Story series, stands as a testament to Jackie Chan's unparalleled influence on the action genre, particularly in how it amalgamated traditional martial arts with audacious stunts that redefine cinematic adrenaline. As Chan's Hong Kong policeman, Ka-Kui, evolves into a quasi-spy character, akin to shifting from the procedural charm of "Burke's Law" to the espionage thrill of "Amos Burke, Secret Agent," the film elevates its narrative depth, cleverly weaving in cultural and political threads without losing its comedic and action-packed core. Notably, Michelle Yeoh's role as Inspector Jessica Yang introduces a dynamic gender twist and enriches the storyline with her own death-defying stunts, firmly establishing her as a formidable force in the genre. This progression marks a significant pivot from local cult heroism to global cinematic superstardom for both Chan and Yeoh.

The technical leap to 4K UHD, reviewed in great detail by Eureka! Entertainment, offers an unprecedented opportunity to appreciate the meticulous craftsmanship behind "Supercop." The visuals and action sequences, particularly those involving helicopters and motorcycles across the stunning Malaysian landscape, gain an enhanced clarity and immersion that honor the film’s ambitious scope. These scenes aren’t just mere spectacles; they're a bold testament to Chan and Yeoh's physical commitment and artistic vision, pushing the boundaries of what's possible on screen.

Moreover, "Supercop" doesn't shy away from its complex geopolitical backdrop, making subtle yet pointed commentary on Chinese mainland ideology through its narrative and characters. This layer adds depth to the high-flying action, grounding the spectacular in a narrative that explores themes of duty, nationalism, and personal integrity. Jackie Chan's Ka-Kui remains an emblem of perseverance and moral conviction, his actions echoing the film’s underlying messages about heroism and loyalty in the face of systemic challenges. This blend of thrilling entertainment and thoughtful storytelling cements "Supercop" as more than just a showcase of stunts—it's a pivotal chapter in Chan's storied career and a milestone in action cinema.

Supercop," also known as "Police Story III," has rightfully earned its place in the pantheon of action cinema, blending exhilarating stunts with a dose of humor that's become synonymous with Jackie Chan's illustrious career. The 4K UHD Blu-ray release by 88 Films is a treat for enthusiasts and newcomers alike, presenting the film with solid technical merits that breathe new life into its breathtaking action sequences and comedic moments. Both Jackie Chan and Michelle Yeoh deliver performances that exemplify their physical prowess and comedic timing, making "Supercop" a standout entry in the genre. The dedication of the stunt team further elevates the film, showcasing a level of risk and execution that's rare in today’s cinematic landscape.

The 4K UHD presentation shines in its ability to highlight the film's dynamic action scenes and vibrant settings, while also providing fans with a collection of appealing supplements that enrich the viewing experience. This release not only caters to long-time followers of Asian cinema but also serves as a compelling entry point for those looking to explore the genre's classics. The enhancement in video quality and the inclusion of extra content make this edition of "Supercop" highly recommended, reminding audiences of the film's enduring appeal and the simplicity at its core that helped secure its legacy.

In conclusion, 88 Films’ 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Supercop" is a testament to the film's lasting impact on action cinema. It celebrates the incomparable talents of Jackie Chan and Michelle Yeoh, offering an experience that’s both nostalgic and fresh. Despite being considered by some as the weakest link in the Police Story series, this release underscores the film's strengths, from its unforgettable finale to its well-balanced blend of action and comedy. For collectors and fans alike, this release is an essential addition to any home video library, encapsulating the spirit of Asian cinema at its peak.