Oldboy 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

The Decal Releasing 2-disc 4K UHD presentation of "Oldboy" represents a pinnacle in home media quality for Park Chan-wook's masterpiece, closely matching the excellence of the 2021 UK UltraHD 4K edition from Arrow Video. Supervised by the filmmaker, this AVC-encoded transfer brings the movie's intentionally abrasive visual identity to life with an unparalleled crispness. This edition faithfully reproduces the heavy grain, high contrast, and distinctive green tint that defines its aesthetic, despite these elements traditionally being viewed as imperfections. The deep black levels and rich color palette stand out, making even the darkest scenes pop with detail that previous releases have not achieved. This exceptional clarity extends to the minutest elements on screen, from the textures on a business card to the intricate patterns of shattered glass, all preserved without any significant digital artifacts like noise or banding. This version, while not perfect due to some inherent softness and a notable crush in black levels, remains true to Chung Chung-hoon's cinematography and Park Chan-wook's vision, making it an essential acquisition for fans and cinephiles.

However, one might find the packaging decision somewhat lacking; the absence of a third disc featuring a 1080p version of this 4K remaster is a minor yet notable omission. Such an addition would have offered increased viewing options and extended the release's appeal to a broader audience, providing an opportunity to appreciate the film's visual nuances regardless of their home theater setup. This choice does little to detract from the overall quality of the release but stands out as a missed opportunity to enhance this edition's value.

In summary, this 4K UHD presentation of "Oldboy" is as close to definitive as one could hope for, marking a significant upgrade over all prior releases. Its meticulously preserved details, balanced color grading, and absence of encoding flaws showcase the film in its most raw and compelling form. While the lack of an additional 1080p Blu-ray disc is a slight disappointment, the sheer quality of this remaster makes it the ultimate version for enthusiasts and sets a high bar for future releases of classic films in the format.

The audio presentation of the 4K UHD Blu-Ray release of "Oldboy" stands as a commendable feat, reflecting rigorous efforts to deliver a superior auditory experience. Highlighted by the central DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track, this edition may not dramatically leap beyond its Blu-Ray precedents in terms of sheer novelty but undeniably presents the film's audio landscape with an unprecedented clarity and balance. The dialogue retains intelligibility across the board, ensuring that voices are well-prioritized amidst the cacophony of the film's more action-laden sequences. Despite occasional moments where dialogue delivery may veer towards the imprecise, largely due to the intense scenes' inherent nature, the inclusion of near-flawless subtitles aids in bridging any gaps, albeit minor quirks in translation remain.

Further accentuating the visceral impact of "Oldboy's" signature violence, the LFE channel is robust and unyielding, lending gravitas to every hammer strike, gunshot, and physical altercation. This emphasis on low-frequency effects not only enhances the narrative's darker moments but also contributes to a more grounded and compelling cinematic experience. Meanwhile, the rear speakers partake significantly in embellishing the film's auditory realm, enveloping viewers in a meticulously crafted soundscape. With precise directional effects, immersive environmental ambience, and a keen attention to spatial acoustics, these elements synergistically forge a realm that transcends mere auditory perception, inviting audiences into Oldboy's twisted reality.

In its entirety, the audio package provided in this release underscores a meticulous dedication to sound quality and immersion. From the weighty thuds of its intense confrontations to the subtle intricacies of its quieter moments, every aspect of Oldboy's soundscape is rendered with a palpable depth and realism. The result is an auditory experience that not only complements but enhances the film's evocative power, rendering it a sensory journey as captivating as it is relentless.

Decal's 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Oldboy" showcases an exemplary model of premium packaging and extensive supplementary content, setting a high benchmark for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Housed within a tastefully designed hardcover clothbound slipcase, the edition's deluxe presentation is further complemented by a 68-page book featuring insightful new essays and six collector cards, encapsulating the cinematic depth of this cult classic. The disc array offers a rich tapestry of extras, including three audio commentaries deep diving into the movie's creation, alongside over ten hours of additional content on the standard Blu-ray disc. Noteworthy is the exhaustive three-and-a-half-hour "Autobiography of Oldboy" documentary retained from previous editions. While it may lack certain Arrow Video-exclusive features, its comprehensive assortment provides a satisfactory exploration into "Oldboy's" legacy and production. For enthusiasts seeking the ultimate collection, owning both Decal and Arrow editions might prove enticing, despite regional playback barriers.

Extras included in this disc:

Audio Commentaries: Three commentaries featuring director Park Chan-wook alone, with cinematographer Jung Jung-hoon, and with actors Choi Min-sik, Yu Ji-tae, and Kang Hye-jung.

Park Chan-wook + Refn Interview (HD): A discussion with Park Chan-wook and Nicolas Winding Refn.

Autobiography of Oldboy (SD): An extensive video diary-style documentary covering the film's production.

Old Days (HD): A retrospective documentary analyzing the film's impact and production.

Deleted Scenes and Outtakes (SD): Eighteen scenes featuring optional director commentary.

Behind the Scenes Featurettes (SD): A compilation of eleven featurettes capturing various production stages.

Archival Interviews (SD): Includes twelve interviews with key figures including Park Chan-wook and members of the cast.

Music & FX Audio Track (HD): An isolated music and effects track offering an immersive audio experience without dialogue.

Trailers & Music Video: Original teasers, trailers for the original and 20th anniversary re-release, and the “Bring My Love” Starsailor music video.

Photo Gallery & Storyboards (HD): A visual collection offering insights into the film's storyboard process and shooting.

Park Chan-wook's "Oldboy" stands as a pillar of modern cinema, embodying the essence of extreme Asian film and staking its claim as perhaps the most pivotal revenge narrative of the 2000s. Rooted in the cruel confines of an inexplicably imposed prison cell, the film's protagonist, Oh Dae-su (played by Choi Min-sik), embarks on a grueling odyssey of vengeance after a mystifying fifteen-year incarceration devoid of explanation or identity of his captor. Upon his abrupt release, equipped with nothing but a suit and a cellphone, Dae-su is thrust into a sinister game of retribution and discovery—a saga beautifully depicted through the lens of Park's directorial prowess. Laden with violence yet underscored by a profound lyricism, "Oldboy" navigates its narrative labyrinth with an intensity that both captivates and horrifies, bolstered by Kang Hye-jung's portrayal of Mi-do and a climax that remains indelibly haunting.

Released in a meticulously supervised 4K remaster by Decal, "Oldboy" has been rejuvenated with visual and auditory clarity that enhances every frame's raw energy and intricate detail, elevating the viewing experience to new heights. This edition is not merely an upgrade but a testament to the film's enduring legacy and technical mastery, presented with a lossless audio quality that mirrors the film's visceral impact. Complemented by a staggering array of special features including extensive commentaries and documentaries, this release cements itself as an essential acquisition for cinephiles and collectors alike, offering more than eighteen hours of in-depth exploration into the film's creation and legacy.

In synthesis, Decal's 4K UHD Blu-Ray presentation of "Oldboy" transcends conventional home media expectations, providing a comprehensive package that showcases the film's unparalleled aesthetic and narrative depth. From its harrowing story of vengeance and redemption to its groundbreaking visual design, curated with an unmatched fidelity to Park Chan-wook’s visionary direction, this edition is a definitive must-own for enthusiasts eager to unravel the complexities of this iconic cinematic masterpiece. Through this release, "Oldboy" not only reaffirms its monumental status in film history but also invites viewers to immerse themselves in a high-definition experience that pays fitting homage to its source material's brilliance and brutality.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Oldboy" presents a compelling case for aficionados and newcomers to the film alike to consider adding this edition to their collections. Emphasized by its high-quality packaging, which stands out as a favorite among recent releases, the attention to detail is evident. Furthermore, the inclusion of extensive special features, which might even exceed expectations in both volume and content, adds significant value to the overall package. The crown jewel of this release, however, is undoubtedly its filmmaker-supervised 4K remaster. This remastering process, coupled with a striking 4K video presentation and an excellent lossless audio track, ensures that the film is experienced in the best possible quality, providing a fresh and immersive viewing experience that honors the original vision while utilizing modern technology to enhance every detail.

Delving into the technical aspects of the release, it’s clear that significant effort has been invested to rejuvenate "Oldboy" for long-time fans and to present it in a manner that is equally compelling for those new to this cinematic gem. The 4K remaster brings forward a precision in visual and auditory delivery that is both rejuvenating and engaging, making every scene a feast for the senses. The commitment to preserving the film's integrity while elevating its presentation is evident, setting a high standard for what enthusiasts can expect from premium releases.

In conclusion, this release of "Oldboy" on 4K UHD Blu-ray justifies its position as a must-have in any collector's library. While its price may be on the higher side, the investment is adequately rewarded by its superior packaging, breadth of special features, and the unparalleled quality of its video and audio presentation. It represents not just a preservation of cinematic history but also an enhancement of it, inviting both loyal fans and curious newcomers to experience the film in a manner that is as close to perfection as current technology allows. It's a clear statement: don't hesitate; this edition of "Oldboy" deserves a prominent place in your collection.