Rango 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

The 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation of "Rango" offers a notable, yet nuanced, visual upgrade from its Blu-ray counterpart. While the 2160p resolution combined with Dolby Vision enhances clarity, the distinctions are subtle unless closely scrutinized. Close-up shots reveal minor improvements in texture and detail, exemplified by the welcome to Dirt road sign and the intricate designs on Rango and other characters. Fans seeking absolute sharpness may appreciate these enhancements, though the difference is not monumental.

Dolby Vision HDR grading offers a more discernible improvement with deeper colors and better contrast. The film's earthy palette benefits from increased accuracy and depth in tones, with Rango's red Hawaiian shirt and green scales gaining more punch and vividness. Black levels see slight improvements, contributing to an enhanced sense of depth in low-light scenes. Overall, while the upgrades are appreciable, they don't constitute a massive leap, making the UHD version a sensible pick for newcomers but a more cautious consideration for casual fans awaiting a good sale.

The HEVC H.265 encode ensures sharper clarity of minute details, from individual hairs and feathers to wood grains and pebbles. Despite minor aliasing in wide shots, the detailed and sharp imagery captivates. Dolby Vision further accentuates this with vibrant primary colors and nuanced variations in softer hues. Contrast is hot but controlled, with crisper whites and improved visibility. Richer, inkier blacks add cinematic depth, making the 2.35:1 image appear more three-dimensional. This UHD release is a technical triumph, elevating the visual experience to a new level.

The 4K UHD Blu Ray release of "Rango" features an exemplary DTS HD Master Audio soundtrack that stands out as much as its impressive video. The vocal clarity remains at the forefront, delivering strong and intelligible dialogue that pulls viewers into the narrative seamlessly. Surround effects are meticulously crafted, creating a notable presence that utilizes every speaker with precision. The immersive nature of the sound mix ensures that there is always remarkable activity, with distinct elements emanating from every corner of the room. This dynamic range is further enhanced during key scenes, such as the climactic showdown between Rango and Rattlesnake Jake, where the LFE (low-frequency effects) provide a deeply engaging experience.

As expected from a demo-worthy DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 soundtrack, "Rango" offers a front-heavy sound design that bathes the visuals in warmth while ensuring a spacious and expansive soundstage. The track excels in capturing both thunderous action sequences and moments of tranquil detail without compromising clarity. A standout scene involves Rango in a dress hanging from a rope, where the audio transitions effortlessly from intense volume to whispered quiet. This consistency extends across a clean mid-range and boisterous low-end, making for a robust and full-bodied auditory experience. The rear channels are filled with discrete effects, creating a fully immersive environment, while crystal-clear dynamics and superior detail differentiation between highs and mids enhance the sonic presentation.

Ultimately, "Rango’s" lossless DTS HD Master Audio enables an enveloping and satisfying audio experience. Discrete effects and atmospheric details transport viewers into the vivid world of the film, supported by a perfectly articulated soundstage. Fans of high-quality audio will find this soundtrack to be thoroughly enjoyable in all aspects.

For a full UHD audio review, please click here.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Rango" includes an array of engaging and informative legacy extras, all housed on the accompanying Blu-ray disc, identical to the 2011 issue. Notably, these supplementary features span various aspects of the film’s production, including comprehensive audio commentary from key production members like Director Gore Verbinski, as well as insights into the animation process. From in-depth documentaries to deleted scenes, these extras will give fans and film analysts a robust understanding of the filmmaking and animation processes that brought "Rango" to life. Noteworthy is the inclusion of detailed and meticulously crafted featurettes that delve into the characters and environment of the film.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Features insights from Director Gore Verbinski and key production staff.
• Breaking the Rules: Making Animation History: Detailed documentary on the film's production.
• Deleted Scenes: Includes ten scenes not featured in the final cut.
• Real Creatures of Dirt: A look at the inspiration behind the characters.
• Storyboard Reel Picture-in-Picture: View storyboards alongside the film.
• A Field Trip to Dirt: Behind-the-scenes look at the film.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original promotional material.

Gore Verbinski’s 2011 digitally animated film "Rango" marks a delightful and technically impressive foray into the genre, featuring the ubiquitous Johnny Depp as the lead voice. This film, now presented in stunning 2160p/Dolby Vision video, delves into the adventures of a fast-talking chameleon named Rango who stumbles upon the dusty town of Dirt. Depp’s vocal performance breathes life into the eccentric character with remarkable flair, capturing both slapstick farce and endearing charm. The film's narrative cleverly evokes classic Western themes, weaving homage to iconic films such as "High Noon" and "Chinatown." Although marketed under the Nickelodeon banner, "Rango" is arguably more tailored to an adult audience, with sophisticated humor and thematic references that fly over the heads of younger viewers.

The film’s richly detailed CGI work is nothing short of spectacular, a testament to this being ILM’s first feature-length animated endeavor. The microscopic detail visible in every frame elevates "Rango" visually to some of the best CGI work of recent years. The plot, albeit familiar, is ingeniously executed with anthropomorphic reptiles, leading to a riveting story where Rango is mistaken for a skilled gunslinger and appointed sheriff. Classic Western tropes are adroitly repurposed, and the character dynamics involving Rattlesnake Jake (voiced by Bill Nighy) and Beans (voiced by Isla Fisher) keep the narrative engaging.

"Rango," hailed for its thoughtful amalgamation of themes and superb animation quality, stands out as an adult-directed animation that aficionados of the Western genre will particularly appreciate. It may not reach Pixar's hallmark for kid-friendliness or heartwarming tales but establishes itself as an inventive and entertaining animated feature. Fans of classic cinema will delight in its myriad references and unabashed originality, making it a cherished addition to any movie collection.

Paramount's 2160p/Dolby Vision UHD release of "Rango" builds upon the already impressive 2011 Blu-ray edition with superior enhancements in clarity and textural accuracy, along with noticeably richer and bolder colors. This presentation effectively revitalizes the visual appeal of ILM's first animated feature, making the arid landscapes and detailed character designs more vibrant and immersive. While the visual improvements are perceptible, they are subtly incremental rather than groundbreaking.

The film itself remains a captivating metamodern Western comedy that pays homage to the spirit of the American West. Directed by Gore Verbinski and supported by a stellar voice cast, including Johnny Depp, Isla Fisher, and Bill Nighy, "Rango" garners appreciation from cinephiles thanks to its humor and rich visuals. The Dolby Vision HDR presentation, while not transformative, adds depth to the viewing experience without detracting from what made the initial release so highly regarded. The accompanying DTS-HD MA 5.1 soundtrack delivers excellent audio fidelity, maintaining an immersive auditory experience identical to the 2011 Blu-ray.

In conclusion, while "Rango" on 4K UHD may not dramatically surpass its Blu-ray predecessor, it offers enough visual enhancement to warrant a closer look, especially during sales. The packaging, including the visually engaging SteelBook, serves as a substantial draw for collectors and fans of the film. Overall, this edition comes Highly Recommended for those seeking to revisit or expand their appreciation of this animated gem in its finest available form.