Blue Velvet 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Criterion's 4K UHD release of "Blue Velvet" showcases a meticulous 4K restoration, supervised by David Lynch, that brings the film's original 2.35:1 aspect ratio to new heights. This release offers a native 4K presentation with both Dolby Vision and HDR grades, enhancing the visual experience significantly. While comparisons between the Blu-ray and the 4K UHD reveal only subtle differences, the native 4K provides notable improvements in darker scenes, expanding nuances and better defining backgrounds. The daylight scenes exhibit a superior dynamic range and balanced coloring, enhancing the entire film's cinematic feel on larger screens.

The HDR and Dolby Vision implementation is carefully tuned, faithful to Lynch's visual style. Although some users might detect minor inconsistencies like crushed blacks or occasional artifacting, these do not detract from the overall impression of excellence. Film grain is preserved organically, maintaining an authentic cinematic texture. The image stability is outstanding, with all visuals presenting fluidity and a rock-steady image. Color reproduction is exceptional, with primary colors and supporting nuances shining brilliantly, adding depth and vibrancy that truly enhance Lynch's work. Even nuanced improvements in scenes featuring characters such as Isabella Rossellini further attest to the restoration's success.

Overall, if you already own the 2019 Blu-ray release of "Blue Velvet," upgrading to this 4K UHD version is justified. The subtle enhancements in image quality, particularly with HDR and Dolby Vision application, make a significant difference in certain scenes. For fans of the film, this release is an essential addition to their collection, further elevating an already high-quality viewing experience with a truly breathtaking visual presentation.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation of "Blue Velvet" includes two principal audio tracks: English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0, with optional English SDH subtitles positioned within the image frame. Both tracks are direct replicas of those from the previous Blu-ray edition, faithfully restoring the nuances intended by David Lynch. The 5.1 track stands out with a balanced mix showcasing clear dialogue and a well-distributed ambiance, free of technical anomalies. Users can enjoy an immersive experience without notable distractions, appreciating the transition of intricate soundscapes.

Upon assessment, the lossless DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack improves upon previous releases, albeit marginally when compared to contemporary audio standards. The dialogue remains clear and dialogue-oriented moments, such as Dennis Hopper's chilling delivery, are particularly impactful. However, the sound mix tends toward flatness; despite that, it is an appreciable uplift over historical versions. Angelo Badalamenti's score holds a significant presence, underscoring scenes with rich ambiance and superior fidelity. Leaning toward the merits, both tracks showcase minimal age-induced issues, presenting the finest audio quality "Blue Velvet" has achieved in the home video market.

The Blu-ray disc of "Blue Velvet" offers a rich selection of supplemental features, providing insightful glimpses into the production and legacy of David Lynch's masterpiece. This impressive collection includes nearly an hour of deleted and alternate scenes curated by Lynch himself, an in-depth archival documentary, an audio recording from Lynch’s co-authored book, and a detailed look at the origins and filming locations of the movie. Interviews with key collaborators such as Angelo Badalamenti further enrich the understanding of the soundtrack and creative process. Additionally, the disc includes a short vintage test footage reel and a 30-page illustrated booklet featuring excerpts from "Room to Dream."

Extras included in this disc:

• Test Chart: Vintage testing footage done before different sequences.
• The Lost Footage: A substantial collection of deleted scenes and alternate takes.
• Blue Velvet Revisited: An archival documentary featuring raw footage and archival materials.
• Room to Dream: Audio recording of David Lynch reading from the co-authored book.
• Angelo Badalamenti Interview: The composer discusses his career and work on the film.
• It's a Strange World: A new documentary on the genesis of Blue Velvet.
• Mysteries of Love: An archival documentary with cast and crew interviews.
• Booklet: A 30-page illustrated booklet with excerpts from "Room to Dream."

David Lynch's "Blue Velvet" is a masterful exploration of the dichotomy between the serene facade and the dark underbelly of suburban America. The film follows college student Jeffrey Beaumont (Kyle MacLachlan) who, upon his return to his hometown following his father's stroke, stumbles upon a severed human ear in a field. This grisly discovery plunges him into an unsettling world filled with eccentric and dangerous characters, including nightclub singer Dorothy Vallens (Isabella Rossellini) and the menacing Frank Booth (Dennis Hopper). The narrative is both perplexing and gripping, offering a potent mix of style, substance, and an unforgettable cast.

The cinematography by Frederick Elmes is particularly noteworthy, with long shots that stand out as some of the most original in contemporary American cinema. Angelo Badalamenti's score adds another layer of depth, heightening the surreal and often disturbing atmosphere. Lynch's direction ensures that every character, from MacLachlan's inquisitive Jeffrey to Hopper's psychotic Frank, leaves an indelible impression. The relationships in the film, though strange, are meticulously crafted to fit into Lynch's unique storytelling framework.

"Blue Velvet" succeeds in maintaining a sense of unease while delving deep into its complex characters and themes. The film is a quintessential example of Lynch's ability to blur the lines between reality and illusion, often leaving the audience questioning the nature of what they are witnessing. Its blend of the mundane with the bizarre makes it one of Lynch's most accessible yet profoundly thought-provoking works. This 4K UHD Blu-ray release by Criterion not only preserves the film's visual and auditory intricacies but also cements "Blue Velvet" as a timeless piece of cinematic art worth revisiting repeatedly.

David Lynch's "Blue Velvet" continues its reign as a cinematic masterpiece with this latest 4K UHD Blu-ray release from Criterion. The visual upgrade is immediately noticeable, offering a sensational native 4K presentation that enriches the film's haunting and hypnotic aesthetics. While the difference between this 4K UHD Disc and Criterion's prior 2019 Blu-ray release isn't astronomically vast, the subtle enhancements are undeniable. The beautifully restored visuals breathe new life into each frame, accentuating both the gritty and ethereal elements that make Lynch's films so uniquely captivating.

Criterion has once again proven its commitment to high-quality releases, not just through the immaculate visual presentation, but also with a robust array of supplementary materials. This 4K release includes all the special features previously seen in their 2019 edition. These extras provide deep dives into the making of "Blue Velvet" and Lynch's directorial approach, and they're invaluable for fans seeking to understand the intricacies of this enigmatic film.

Even if you already have Criterion's Blu-ray release of the recent 4K restoration of David Lynch's Blue Velvet and are very happy with it, you should plan to pick up this upcoming 4K Blu-ray/Blu-ray combo pack for your library. The entire film looks sensational in native 4K. There is nothing else for me to add, really. This is exactly the type of impeccable and definitive quality I think collectors expect 4K Blu-ray releases to deliver. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.