UHF 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review
35th Anniversary Edition
Score: 81
from 7 reviewers
Review Date:
Revisiting "UHF" on 4K UHD offers phenomenal clarity and detail, alongside a quirky comedy that remains timelessly entertaining. Highly recommended for fans.
Disc Release Date
True 4K
HDR10
Dolby Vision
DTS-HD MA
Video: 87
UHF’s 4K UHD Blu-Ray delivers a subtle yet appreciable upgrade, with Dolby Vision and HDR10 enhancing color accuracy and contrast, ensuring a sharper, more immersive viewing experience that preserves the film's grainy texture and nostalgic '80s low-budget feel.
Audio: 80
The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track on the 4K UHD Blu-ray of 'UHF' offers a crisp, clear dialogue and well-reproduced musical numbers, maintaining a simple yet effective audio experience consistent with the original Dolby Stereo mix. Despite the lack of a modern 5.1 or Dolby Atmos upgrade, the audio presentation remains bright and immersive.
Extra: 72
The 4K UHD Blu-ray of 'UHF' retains all the cherished extras from previous releases, including insightful yet humorous commentaries with Weird Al and director Jay Levey, a 51-minute Comic-Con panel, deleted scenes, and a vintage behind-the-scenes featurette. Additionally, expect galleries of production stills, promotional materials, and trailers, ensuring a comprehensive package for fans.
Movie: 82
UHF showcases Weird Al Yankovic's zany humor and creative genius in a beautifully restored 4K UHD Blu-ray by Shout Factory. With standout performances by Michael Richards and Kevin McCarthy, a fitting score by John Du Prez, and inventive programs like 'Wheel of Fish,' this cult classic remains a must-see for comedy enthusiasts.
Video: 87
The 4K UHD presentation of "UHF" by Shout! Studios, featuring a new 4K remaster from the original camera negative, marks a significant enhancement over previous releases. This 2160p HEVC / H.265 encoding in the original 1.85:1 widescreen aspect ratio delivers a crisp and clean filmic quality, with detail levels that are distinct but not drastically different. The usage of both HDR10 and Dolby Vision is notable, as it brings depth and subtlety to the color palette. The overall image, while grainy due to its 35mm origins, exhibits refined textural details and controlled primary colors. Reds and other primary hues, which appeared overly bright in older Blu-ray versions, are now more natural and balanced.
Technically, the high-dynamic-range (HDR) grading, including Adobe Vision and HDR10, elevates the visual experience by enhancing color reproduction and contrast. With blacks being deep and image stability from start to finish, the result is an immersive, lifelike quality that fans will appreciate. The bit-rate frequently exceeding 80 Mbps ensures minimal compression artifacts, preserving the integrity of the film's visual aesthetic. Even low-resolution elements like late-80s computer animations appear better integrated within this upgraded scan.
The presentation also benefits from improved definition and texture, particularly in close-up shots. Practical elements like Weird Al’s hair and intricate set details are vividly represented, emphasizing the film’s quirky charm. While minor issues such as splotches and specks remain, they contribute to the nostalgic '80s low-budget feel rather than distracting from the viewing experience. Overall, this meticulously crafted 4K release achieves a more film-like presentation than any previous home video offerings, making it a must-own for devoted fans of "UHF."
Audio: 80
The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "UHF" features an English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track with impressive 24-bit high-resolution audio. This tracks the film's original Dolby Stereo optical track, holding up remarkably well given the movie’s modest $5 million budget. Dialogue is consistently crisp and clear, maintaining a solid presence without distortion, even during louder scenes. The soundtrack and musical numbers are vibrant, rendering Weird Al’s parodies with proper dynamic range, offering a lively experience. The overall audio presentation is rich, adding substance and depth to the viewing experience without altering the original production qualities.
While the 2.0 mix might not utilize full surround capabilities, it does offer immersive moments with ambient details and directional effects that feel natural and unforced. For instance, early scenes capture atmospheric elements such as ambient noises from adjacent rooms effectively, and specific sequences like Stanley Spadowski's show make notable use of side channel audio. Although there is no modern mix upgrade to a 5.1 or Dolby Atmos format, the DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track continues to perform admirably.
Despite a mostly front-heavy mix and the simplicity of the audio design, the preservation of fidelity is noteworthy. There are no unwanted distortions or artifacts such as pops or hissing; the audio remains bright and clean. The DTS-HD encoding ensures that the lossless presentation stands out, particularly for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts who value high-quality soundtracks over compressed streaming alternatives. In summary, even though the audio track is simple and mirrors previous releases, it faithfully delivers a satisfying aural experience that complements the upgraded visuals.
Extras: 72
The 4K UHD Blu Ray of "UHF" boasts a plethora of entertaining and informative extras that fans will undoubtedly appreciate. The disc includes a lively and humorous audio commentary by "Weird" Al Yankovic and director Jay Levey, with contributions from stars Michael Richards, Victoria Jackson, and Emo Phillips. The retrospective panel from the 2014 San Diego Comic-Con offers in-depth insights and delightful anecdotes. Additionally, viewers can enjoy nearly twenty minutes of deleted scenes, a vintage behind-the-scenes featurette, the music video for “UHF,” extensive galleries of production stills and posters, as well as Easter eggs and promotional materials. This collection preserves all the features from previous releases, making it an essential acquisition for "UHF" enthusiasts.
Extras included in this disc:
- Audio Commentary: Insightful and comedic track by Weird Al and Jay Levey.
- Retrospective Panel: San Diego Comic-Con 2014 Q&A session.
- Deleted Scenes: A substantial collection with commentary from Weird Al.
- Behind-The-Scenes Footage: Vintage making-of featurette.
- Music Video: Video for the film’s titular track "UHF".
- Production Stills: Comprehensive still photo gallery.
- Poster Gallery: Various promotional designs.
- Easter Eggs: Hidden additional content.
- Promotional Materials: Theatrical and TV spots.
Movie: 82
"UHF" is a quintessential Weird Al Yankovic comedy, bringing his distinctive humor from music parodies to the big screen. The film stars "Weird Al" as George Newman, a perennially daydreaming underachiever who finds himself running a nearly bankrupt UHF television station won by his uncle in a poker game. As George and his friend Bob (David Bowe) introduce bizarre, imaginative shows like "Wheel of Fish" and "Stanley Spadowski’s Clubhouse" (featuring Michael Richards in a standout performance), the station's fortunes rise. However, they face challenges from R.J. Fletcher (Kevin McCarthy), an unscrupulous competitor keen on shutting them down. Yankovic’s humor is versatile and timeless, combining slapstick, puns, and character-driven comedy that still resonates today.
The film's success as a cult classic owes much to its sharp script co-written by Yankovic and Jay Levey, coupled with Levey's enthusiastic direction. The cast, including Fran Drescher and Victoria Jackson, deliver engaging performances that bolster Yankovic’s offbeat vision. Michael Richards shines with an improvised performance that is even more uproarious than his famous role in "Seinfeld." Cinematographer David Lewis captures both the outlandish and mundane aspects of the TV station with creative flair, further enhanced in this 4K restoration by Shout Factory. The score by John Du Prez adds another layer of enjoyment, harmonizing with the film's comedic undertones.
Edited by Dennis M. O'Connor, the film maintains a brisk pace without overstaying its welcome—each gag lands effectively. The production design by Ward Preston and costumes by Tom McKinley contribute to the film's immersive zaniness, reflecting Yankovic's unique comedic style. Though not for everyone, "UHF" remains beloved for those attuned to Weird Al’s eccentric humor, solidifying its place as a cult gem.
Total: 81
"UHF," starring the inimitable "Weird Al" Yankovic, retains its charm and hilarity in this stellar 4K UHD release. As a hallmark of quirky, offbeat comedy from the '80s, the film remains a beloved cult classic. The new 4K scan sourced from the original camera negative brings out incredible clarity and detail previously unseen, making for an outstanding visual experience. Added to this is the DTS-HD MA 2.0 lossless audio, which immerses you in the absurdity of Yankovic's wonderfully ridiculous world. Despite no new features in this release, Shout! Studios includes a wealth of treasured vintage extras and commentary tracks that augment the film’s enjoyment.
While "UHF" might be considered imperfect by traditional cinematic standards, its unique blend of sketch comedy and subversive humor stands strong. Fans will appreciate the improved picture quality, albeit marginally better than the 25th Anniversary Blu-ray edition. This updated release feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new, echoing the sentiments of those familiar with Weird Al's irreverent comedy style. Whether it's through grotesque over-the-top skits or nostalgic TV show parodies, "UHF" delivers an enthusiastic and genuine comedic experience only Weird Al could offer.
In conclusion, Weird Al has always been this incredibly sweet and family-friendly character for as long as I can remember. Growing up on his music it was clear that this wasn’t a guy you were going to see in the news getting drunk and smashing his guitar over a fan’s head or really hear any controversy about. He’s always been this enthusiastic nerd with a love for comedy, and it really shows here with the shoe-string budgeted film that he created all the way back in 1989. It’s cute, family-friendly (despite a VERY light PG-13 rating), and a lot of fun if you’re into the Dr. Demento/Weird Al style of comedy. The 4K UHD looks really nice, and thankfully Shout! Studios has put the new remastered Blu-ray in the combo pack as well for those of us who want to upgrade the 25th Anniversary Blu-ray from a decade ago. All in all, a fun film and a good watch for those of us who love good old “Weird” Al.
Technical Specifications:
- Starring: "Weird Al" Yankovic, Victoria Jackson, Kevin McCarthy, Michael Richards, Fran Drescher
- Directed by: Jay Levy
- Written by: "Weird Al" Yankovic, Jay Levy
- Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1 HEVC
- Audio: English: DTS-HD MA 2.0
- Subtitles: English SDH, French, Spanish
- Studio: Shout! Studios
- Rated: PG-13
- Runtime: 94 Minutes
- Blu-ray Release Date: July 2nd, 2024
Recommendation: Fun Watch
AV Nirvana review by Michael ScottRead review here
Video: 80
There’s still some splotches and speckles here and there, but overall this 4K UHD is a good improvement over the new Blu-ray, let alone the decade old Blu-ray that came from an older scan....
Audio: 80
I sadly don’t have the 2014 disc in hand to compare against, but I would hazard a weeks pay that the only Shout!...
Extras: 60
Disc One - 4K UHD • Audio Commentary with "Weird Al" Yankovic and director Jay Levey Disc Two - Blu-ray • Retrospective Panel From San Diego Comic-Con 2014 •...
Movie: 80
That is until they find magic in the form of Stanley Spadowski (Michael Richards, just as he was starting on Seinfeld ), a slightly “touched” janitor who just so happens to turn George’s failing kid’s...
Total: 80
He’s always been this enthusiastic nerd with a love for comedy, and it really shows here with the shoe string budgeted film that he created all the way back in 1989....
Blu-ray.com review by Neil LumbardRead review here
Video: 100
The comedy classic has never looked better before and this 4K restoration is easily the best the film has ever looked (likely surpassing the original theatrical presentation, too)....
Audio: 90
The lossless, high-resolution audio presentation on the release adds a lot to the viewing experience....
Extras: 80
The 4K UHD and Blu-ray combo pack includes the same collectors edition bonus features as previously released....
Movie: 100
The comedy routine of Michael Richards is fantastic here and he is a great and integral supporting player in the cult classic status of UHF....
Total: 90
The lossless audio quality is also immersive and a huge part of the reason to own this fantastic release....
Blu-ray Authority review by Matt BrightonRead review here
Video: 90
When I think of films in 4K, I have to admit that UHF isn’t the first one that comes to mind....
Audio: 90
Extras: 70
It seems like Al was well prepared going into this session, as he is able to get a lot of insight from the others, as well as provide his own stories & memories....
Movie: 0
The role calls for him to don all kinds of costumes and makeup devices, as well as endure some humiliating moments, but Al faces it all with skill and gives us a terrific performance in the process....
Total: 80
Shout’s new 4K offering gives us the best-looking picture we’ve seen to date and though it’s a bit disappointing no new features have been included, what we’ve got is fine by me....
The Digital Bits review by Tim SalmonsRead review here
Video: 95
UHF has many lower resolution visuals built into it, including late-80s computer animation, but it’s nonetheless a sharp and organic picture with bitrates than rise above 80Mbps quite often, allowing for...
Audio: 95
Sonically, the difference is nil as the matrixed Dolby Stereo theatrical mix (which is likely the source for both tracks) holds up beautifully....
Extras: 90
Still missing in action from the 2003 MGM DVD release is an introduction by “Weird” Al, as well as the Easter Eggs (two additional deleted scenes, a snippet of Michael Richards from the UHF promo within...
Movie: 85
Although it eventually made its budget back with a tiny bit to spare, “Weird” Al Yankovic’s zany spoof comedy UHF seemed destined to be a cult movie anyway, even if it hadn’t been released during that...
Total: 91
By default, it’s an imperfect movie, but it’s a terrifically insane and wonderful “Weird” Al movie, and that’s more than enough....
DoBlu review by Matt PaprockiRead review here
Video: 80
Dolby Vision doesn’t add much, and if anything, it barely appears to enhance much in the way of brightness (an exception for the final fireworks display aside)....
Audio: 60
DTS-HD stereo shows off a touch, offering a pleasant spread of audio to the sides with frequency....
Extras: 60
A behind-the-scenes feature is vintage, yet like the film itself, has actually matured into a strong parody of self-congratulatory extras....
Movie: 80
“Through the glaze of weirdness, UHF becomes a cult hit in the sense that it applies to a definitive cult audience – too messy for mainstream, too soft for the hardcore, and utterly baffling to most everyone...
Total: 70
UHF is wildly irreverent, ridiculous, and absurd in the ways that define some of the greats like Airplane....
High-Def DigestRead review here
Video: 80
Black levels are inky and the skin tones are more natural this time around, however, there is still a warm quality to the faces....
Audio: 80
The music video in the film and all of the silly sound effects could have been amplified with a modern audio design....
Extras: 80
There are no new bonus features for 2024 here, however, all of the previous extras have been imported over to the Blu-ray Disc in this set, including the BEST audio commentary track on a Disc from Weird...
Movie: 80
The only possibly offensive aspect may be the silly over-the-top quick shots of violence like Conan the Librarian using his massive broadsword to slice a guy in half for returning a book after its due...
Total: 80
The wonderful vintage extras are all worth watching, especially the audio commentary from Al and friends....
Home Theater Forum review by Todd ErwinRead review here
Video: 90
There is an improvement in the image overall, allowing for a slightly more film-like presentation....
Audio: 70
Dialogue is directed mostly to the center channel when played back in Dolby Surround or DTS: Neuro X modes, never getting lost in the sound effects or music....
Extras: 70
Easter Egg(s) (1080p; 0:32): The cover art lists Easter Eggs, but I was only able to find one – promotional footage of Al hard at work in the editing room cutting the movie together that was one of the...
Movie: 70
George and Bob arrive at the station to find it on the brink of bankruptcy, and begin to come up with their own original programming, such as Wheel of Fish, Secrets of the Universe, and hands over the...
Total: 80
There is a slight improvement in picture quality on both the UHD and Blu-ray discs over the older 25th Anniversary Blu-ray release from Shout ten years ago (which may have been sourced from the HD master...
Director: Jay Levey
Actors: 'Weird Al' Yankovic, Victoria Jackson, Kevin McCarthy
PlotGeorge Newman, a daydreamer with a knack for losing jobs, is given the chance to manage a failing UHF television station, Channel 62, by his uncle. Initially, George and his friend Bob struggle to find an audience, and the station appears destined for bankruptcy. However, things take a turn when George stumbles upon the idea for an unconventional children's show called "Uncle Nutzy's Clubhouse," starring himself as the zany host. His eccentric and absurd style soon begins to attract a loyal following. Meanwhile, George's hyperactive janitor, Stanley Spadowski, also becomes a surprise hit with his own show, "Stanley Spadowski's Clubhouse," where his earnest and goofy antics endear him to viewers of all ages.
As Channel 62's popularity skyrockets, it quickly becomes a threat to the ratings of the more established and unscrupulous rival station run by R.J. Fletcher. Determined to crush the competition, Fletcher employs various underhanded tactics to sabotage Channel 62's success. In the face of these challenges, George and his ragtag team of misfits must band together to create original programming and save their station from financial ruin. The battle for survival against corporate greed and the odds sets the stage for a comedic adventure filled with eccentric characters and imaginative parodies.
Writers: 'Weird Al' Yankovic, Jay Levey, Charles Holloway
Release Date: 21 Jul 1989
Runtime: 97 min
Rating: PG-13
Country: United States
Language: English