Thief 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Criterion's 4K UHD release of "Thief" delivers a remarkable upgrade from its previous high-definition offerings. The director's cut, now presented in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen with Dolby Vision and HDR grading at 2160p resolution, achieves a stunning display that surpasses the 2014 Blu-ray. The new 4K restoration, deriving from the original 35mm negative and overseen by Michael Mann, enhances the film’s predominantly nocturnal scenes, offering rich darkness free of any crushing artifacts. The neon lights and city reflections are rendered with impressive clarity, capturing the brilliant luminescence that Mann's films are renowned for.

The attention to detail extends to clothing, skin textures, and environmental elements, showcasing the film's aesthetic with exceptional finesse. The Dolby Vision further enriches the visuals, enhancing contrasts and bringing out vivid hues and intricate details in both vibrant scenes and those shrouded in darkness. Notably, segments such as the nighttime scenes and shots involving neon lighting are particularly striking, displaying a broader dynamic range and smoother picture quality when compared to the 1080p Blu-ray counterpart.

The 4K UHD rendition presents a consistently well-resolved grain structure that maintains Mann’s stylistic vision—a juxtaposition of slick cinematography with gritty undertones. Despite the minor degradation noticed in the additional Willie Dixon fisherman scene, the overall presentation is impressive, with vibrant colors and defined reflections, particularly evident in highlights like Frank’s black Cadillac. Stability is expertly managed with no apparent encoding issues, presenting a technically superior product that faithfully serves Mann’s directorial intentions. This release is an undeniable improvement that not only meets but exceeds expectations for 4K home viewing experiences.

The "Thief" 4K UHD Blu-ray audio presentation showcases an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, remastered with precision from the original stereo sources. This track has been elevated to a 5.0 surround mix from 35mm four-track magnetic audio stems, and it boasts approval by director Michael Mann. The soundtrack remains compelling, driven by Tangerine Dream's iconic electronic score, which pulses beneath scenes with distinctive clarity and presence. Although the absence of a dedicated LFE is noted, the mix compensates with a wonderfully balanced sound stage rich in detail.

The updated audio track effectively maintains the film's atmospheric integrity. Dialogue is largely clear, though there are moments where volume adjustments may be necessary to fully catch all speech nuances. Special effects are rendered cleanly, contributing to an immersive viewing experience. Despite the modification from the original, no significant audio anomalies or distortions have been recorded. Optional English SDH subtitles are also available for added viewer convenience.

This remastered mix, while fundamentally different from its original stereo counterpart, serves as a fitting audio companion to the visually stunning 4K presentation. The synth-driven score by Tangerine Dream particularly benefits from this surround configuration, embellishing the narrative with an enriched auditory experience. Despite the slight deviation from purist expectations regarding the lack of the original stereo mix, the current DTS-HD Master Audio 5.0 track offers both depth and dynamic range, ensuring an engaging and atmospheric journey through Mann’s cinematic vision.

The 4K UHD Blu Ray release of "Thief" from Criterion Collection includes a set of archival extras that delve into the filmmaking process and the creative minds behind this cult classic. The 1995 audio commentary by director Michael Mann and actor James Caan offers timeless insights into the film's production, character development, and thematic exploration. The collection further enhances understanding with a series of interviews from 2013, featuring Mann discussing the film's visual style and influences, Caan reflecting on his acting process and film collaboration, and Johannes Schmoelling of Tangerine Dream shedding light on the film's iconic soundtrack creation. The original theatrical trailer provides nostalgic context, while the accompanying booklet contains an essay by critic Nick James. Overall, these materials offer a comprehensive look into the artistry of "Thief."

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Archival commentary by Michael Mann and James Caan.
• Michael Mann: 2013 interview discussing the film's production and influences.
• James Caan: 2013 program on his character preparation and collaboration with Mann.
• Tangerine Dream: Insights from Johannes Schmoelling on the soundtrack creation.
• Trailer: Original theatrical trailer for "Thief."
• Booklet: Illustrated essay by critic Nick James.

Michael Mann's "Thief" is a striking debut that not only exemplifies his signature style but also delivers a powerful thematic exploration of ambition and entrapment within America's societal framework. The film follows Frank, portrayed by James Caan, a seasoned safe-cracker attempting to break away from his criminal life to build a family with girlfriend Jessie, played by Tuesday Weld. As Frank takes on one last job at the behest of crime boss Leo (Robert Prosky), he confronts the harsh realities of a system designed to exploit rather than liberate. This narrative blends seamlessly with Mann's distinct direction, characterized by neon-lit visuals and detailed depictions of heist sequences that ground the film in authenticity.

Mann's collaboration with real-life criminals as technical consultants further enriches the verisimilitude of "Thief," particularly in its heist scenes. James Caan's dedication to his role, including training with former safe-cracker John Santucci, who appears as a police officer antagonizing Frank, underscores the film’s commitment to realism. The tension is heightened by Tangerine Dream’s electronic score, which, though initially controversial, has gained acclaim for its innovative use of electronic music in cinema, influencing the genre significantly. The score's atmospheric synthesis enhances the moody urban landscape while echoing Frank’s internal struggle.

At its essence, "Thief" is a profound meditation on the American Dream, revealing its inherent contradictions and unattainability as embodied in Frank’s turbulent quest for freedom. Through rich performances, particularly from Caan and Prosky, and Mann's nuanced storytelling, "Thief" transcends its era, resonating as a timeless exploration of the human condition within the crime genre. This fidelity to both style and substance ensures "Thief" remains revered as a masterpiece, impacting subsequent filmmakers and solidifying Mann’s legacy as a pioneer of neo-noir cinema.

Michael Mann's "Thief" makes a compelling case for authenticity in filmmaking. As his feature debut, this 1981 neo-noir classic showcases Mann’s fully-formed visual style and thematic obsessions. The film centers on driven professionals, meticulously captured through James Caan’s immersive portrayal of a safe-cracker. Mann offers moments that blend real-life verisimilitude with intimate human drama, creating a gripping narrative that transcends its era. Newly restored in 4K by Criterion Collection, "Thief" is presented with an upgrade that warrants consideration, even for those who already own Criterion’s earlier Blu-ray edition.

The 4K UHD disc embraces advancements in home media technology, presenting the film in HEVC 2160p with Dolby Vision, ensuring stunning visual fidelity. This release accentuates the film's neon noir elements, offering an HD clarity that enhances every scene’s atmospheric tension and visual flair. The English DTS-HD MA 5.0 audio track complements the visuals by preserving the detailed nuances of both dialogue and score. Criterion's choice to release this on 4K Ultra HD serves as a testament to the film's enduring appeal and artistic merit.

They don't make them like this anymore. If you encounter older film collectors who often assert this, dive into Michael Mann's "Thief" to discover why. Its cinematic prowess remains unmatched, making it a must-watch for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. The decision to release "Thief" on 4K Blu-ray is commendable, as it provides a substantial upgrade from previous versions. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a film that resonates with timeless storytelling and technical excellence.