Back to the Future Part II 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review
Score: 77
from 5 reviewers
Review Date:
Back to the Future II shines in 4K, offering exceptional visuals, audio, and a fun, evolving story.
Disc Release Date
True 4K
HDR10
Dolby Vision
Dolby Atmos
Dolby TrueHD
Video: 81
The Ultimate 4K trilogy box set of Back to the Future Part II dazzles with improved visuals, striking colors, and detailed scenes, despite minor restoration challenges and inconsistencies.
Audio: 83
Back to the Future II's 4K Dolby Atmos upgrade delivers an immersive, dynamic audio experience with clear dialogue, atmospheric effects, and a rich score, making it sound better than ever.
Extra: 81
The Back to the Future Part II 4K and Blu-ray release boasts a comprehensive collection of extras, including detailed behind-the-scenes insights, deleted scenes, and new retrospective features, encapsulating the trilogy's legacy and the physics of time travel.
Movie: 79
Back to the Future Part II cleverly continues Marty and Doc's journey with a mix of accurate future predictions, thrilling plot twists, and iconic effects, solidifying it as a superior sequel.
Video: 81
Back to the Future Part II" elevates the visual experience to new heights in its 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation. Encoded with HEVC/H.265 and boasting a resolution of 4K in the film's original aspect ratio of widescreen 1.85:1, this release on Ultra HD Blu-ray showcases an impressive restoration from Universal. The transition to 4K, combined with HDR10/HDR10+ and Dolby Vision, significantly enhances the clarity and detail of the picture, preserving the film's intended color palette while enhancing it with a wide color gamut and high dynamic range. The presentation shines particularly well on setups like an LG 55B7 Dolby Vision 4K Ultra HD OLED TV, complemented by a Panasonic DP-UB450 Blu-ray player, portraying the vibrant futurescape and dark alternate realities with exceptional black levels and vivid colors.
Despite its remarkable improvements in detail and texture, challenges remain due to the original optical effects shots intrinsic to the film's pioneering visual effects. These layers baked in limited detail and unalterable grain, particularly noticeable in scenes featuring flying cars or when multiple iterations of a character share the screen. Nevertheless, Universal's restoration team managed effectively to navigate these hurdles, delivering a video quality where the film's less effects-driven sequences dazzle with consistent detail and where even the more flawed moments are largely forgivable. The natural grain structure remains finely preserved, contributing to the film’s cinematic feel amidst some sporadic haziness.
The Dolby Vision color grading is among the standout features of this release, deepening blacks and enriching the vibrancy of colors from the neon lights of Hill Valley in 2015 to the gloomy alternate 1985. Scenes set in 1955 benefit immensely from this enhancement, showcasing a brighter and more colorful world compared to the SDR colors of previous releases. While some grain management and filtering decisions may draw attention, overall, the presentation retains a commendable fidelity to the original film. Flaws from the restoration process are minimal and do not significantly detract from an otherwise stellar viewing experience. The absence of print damage or encode issues solidifies "Back to the Future Part II" in 4K UHD as a definitive version for fans and newcomers alike, notwithstanding some inconsistencies when directly compared to other UHD releases from the same era.
Audio: 83
The audio presentation of "Back to the Future Part II" on 4K UHD Blu-ray is elevated significantly with its Dolby Atmos track, showcasing a meticulous balance of clarity, depth, and immersive sound staging. The upgrade introduces a more expansive and expressive sound field, ensuring that dialogue, while slightly quieter compared to its predecessor, remains coherent and prioritized across the frontal array. The blend of Alan Silvestri's iconic score with dynamic sound effects creates an atmospheric ride. The orchestral arrangements and rock music sequences, notably in chapter nine's introduction of Biff's empire, are delivered with commendable detail and depth, fully utilizing the sound stage to envelop the listener in orchestral bliss.
The implementation of Dolby Atmos adds a new layer of immersion, especially in scenes featuring sky traffic and hoverboard sequences where the audio fluidly moves through the height channels and into the rear, simulating an authentic sense of movement and space. Despite its age, the film benefits from this audio enhancement, with even the dated sound effects like gunfire finding a new lease of life in this mix. The low-frequency effects (LFE) are subtle yet effective, with the DeLorean's time warps and the score being notable beneficiaries. This is complemented by active height speakers that add dimensionality to flyovers and atmospheric conditions, enriching the viewer's experience.
The surround sound presentation stands out throughout the movie, engaging viewers with a mix that spreads music, sound effects, and ambient noise evenly across the soundscape. Dialogue reproduction excels, anchored perfectly within scenes to maintain clarity and presence. Despite the original film's limitations regarding bass response attributed to its 1989 production, this auditory experience remains full-bodied and engaging. The audio formats, including English: Dolby Atmos; English: Dolby TrueHD 7.1; and additional options like English: Dolby Digital 2.0, along with multi-language DTS tracks, provide a comprehensive suite for various preferences, ensuring "Back to the Future Part II" sounds better than ever before.
Extra: 81
The 4K UHD Blu-ray extras of "Back to the Future Part II" are an impressive compilation that caters to both new and long-standing fans, echoing the depth found in the predecessor’s release. Comprehensive across the board, it includes everything from enlightening commentaries by Producer Bob Gale and Q&As with the creators, to engaging deleted scenes, and extensive behind-the-scenes footage. Noteworthy are the detailed explorations into the making of the sequel, the physics behind the time travel concepts with Dr. Michio Kaku, and a delightful look at the design process of iconic elements such as the DeLorean and hoverboards. Additionally, this release is enhanced by a plethora of archival featurettes, adding value with insights into the trilogy’s production. The inclusion of a dedicated extras disc in the 4K collection ensures that enthusiasts are treated to a rich retrospective view spanning the entire saga, alongside unique finds like audition tapes and a featurette on "Back to the Future: The Musical".
Extras included in this disc:
- Deleted Scenes: Commentary by Producer Bob Gale available
- Tales from THE FUTURE: Time Flies
- The Physics of BACK TO THE FUTURE with Dr. Michio Kaku
- Archival Featurettes:
- The Making of BACK TO THE FUTURE PART II
- Making the Trilogy: Chapter Two
- Behind the Scenes:
- Outtakes, Production Design, Storyboarding, Designing the DeLorean, Designing Time Travel, Hoverboard Test, Evolution of Visual Effects Shots, Photo Galleries
- Theatrical Trailer
- Q&A Commentary with Director Robert Zemeckis and Producer Bob Gale
- Feature Commentary with Producers Bob Gale and Neil Canton
Movie: 79
Back to the Future Part II" effortlessly secures its place among the pantheon of sequel giants like "Terminator 2" and "Aliens", delivering a time-travel tale that not only meets but transcends its predecessor’s legacy. Diving headfirst into a convoluted yet brilliantly executed storyline, the sequel expands the adventures of Marty McFly and Doc Brown with an innovative dive into a future brimming with now eerily accurate technological predictions – from multi-channel, split-screen TVs to drones and videoconferencing. The inclusion of iconic elements like the hoverboard alongside this near-prophetic view of technological advancements enriches the narrative fabric of this 1989 cinematic marvel. Furthermore, the visual and audio upgrade to 2160p/Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos on the UHD format enhances the viewing experience, bringing out the vibrant essence of a reimagined 2015 and offering fans both new and old a definitive version of the film.
The movie’s strength lies not only in its special effects or uncanny predictions but also in the intricate web of time-travel it weaves, allowing characters to navigate between various timelines with finesse, creating a loop that intertwines with events from the first film. This seamless storytelling—complemented by stellar performances, especially Thomas F. Wilson in his multifaceted portrayal of Biff Tannen—adds depth to the film’s villains and enriches the narrative complexity. The upgraded UHD presentation underscores these performances and narrative intricacies, providing an immersive experience that highlights the film’s attention to detail and its groundbreaking visual effects that have held up remarkably over time.
At its core, "Back to the Future Part II" remains an imperative sequel that extends the original’s narrative arc in meaningful ways, exploring themes of consequence, identity, and ambition through its imaginative set pieces and character development. The movie transcends traditional sequel expectations, blending humor, sci-fi elements, and a thought-provoking examination of time’s impact on individuals and society. While seamlessly maintaining its entertainment value and iconic status, this sequel not only stands on par with its predecessor but also elevates the entire trilogy, proving to be a cinematic journey that is as required as it is revered. The movie's UHD presentation brings all these elements to life with unparalleled clarity, ensuring that each nuance of this time-travel odyssey is appreciated anew.
Total: 77
Back to the Future Part II" makes a triumphant return to screens via Universal's 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray, reinvigorated not just in visuals but in sound, ensuring a next-level home cinema experience. This release, as part of the trilogy box set, presents the film in native 4K, enhancing every scene with stunning clarity that surpasses its original cinematic debut, possibly making it look better than it ever did—even back in 1989. Accompanied by a Dolby Atmos track, the audio is equally impressive. The use of the LFE channel enriches sound effects like the iconic rumble of the DeLorean and the whirring of the Flux Capacitor, while a varied soundscape, including music and spatial audio cues, extends the soundstage for an immersive viewing experience. However, while the imaging across the front is exemplary, the cohesion from front to rear channels might not be perfect, with rear channel sounds being slightly more prominent than expected.
The film itself does not shy away from the challenge of evolving its narrative and visual spectacles. It succeeds in further developing Marty McFly’s character amidst the zany time-travel escapades and stunning visual effects, maintaining the charm and inventiveness of the series. For fans and newcomers alike, this 4K release showcases an even more enjoyable sequence of adventures through time, making "Back to the Future Part II" a fantastic continuation of an iconic story. The quality of this release solidifies it as a must-have, bursting with detail and providing an auditory experience that's as memorable as its visual enhancements.
In conclusion, Universal's offering is an indispensable upgrade for enthusiasts and a sensational entry point for newcomers. The sheer amount of additional content, including a dedicated bonus disc, coupled with the unparalleled native 4K presentation and dynamic Dolby Atmos track, makes this more than just a step into nostalgia—it's a leap into a visually and audibly superior experience. "Back to the Future Part II" in 4K UHD Blu-ray is not only a testament to the film's undiminished appeal but also a demonstration of how technological advancements can breathe new life into classic cinema treasures.
avforums review by Casimir HarlowRead review here
Video: 90
Of course, the WCG, HDR and Dolby Vision (and, for those who have it, HDR10+) are easily the standout elements, capping off the lavishly restored image and improved detailing with gorgeous, rich tones...
Audio: 90
As before, dialogue comes across clearly and coherently throughout, perhaps a smidge quieter than on the first movie, but only really noticeable on watching them back-to-back and nothing to complain about,...
Extras: 100
Back to the Future Part II's 4K Blu-ray disc follows suit with the first film, leaving the new material for the dedicated Bonus Disc and rather refreshingly porting over all of the old, previously available...
Movie: 90
Although it took a couple of years to put together - and lost two original cast members in the process - the end result was fantastically realised, particularly for a 1989 movie, with some great, iconic,...
Total: 90
An unforgettable second chapter in this basically perfect trilogy Universal's Back to the Future Trilogy box set brings all three movies to 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray with native 4K presentations and Dolby Atmos...
Blu-ray.com review by Martin LiebmanRead review here
Video: 90
During the stretch back in the alternate 1985, the contrast between the high dollar hotel and the run down Hill Valley streets are stark, and even under darkness exteriors dazzle with intimate clarity...
Audio: 90
Sky traffic zips and zooms around the listener when the DeLorean arrives in 2015 and, later in the 38 minute mark, when a jet liner rushes over the car with impressive depth and top end command, telling...
Extras: 100
This UHD release of Back to the Future Part II contains the same supplemental suite found on the concurrently released (and remastered) Blu-ray....
Movie: 90
Note that this disc is currently only available as part of a three-film bundle with 'Back to the Future' and 'Back to the Future Part III.'...
Total: 70
Back to the Future's UHD release, as it's included in the above linked three film trilogy, earns my highest recommendation....
DoBlu review by Matt PaprockiRead review here
Video: 60
Those suffer typical degradation from the era, and given their smoothness, stick out from the rest; it’s easy to tell when effects draw near....
Audio: 80
As a more active film, Atmos benefits this sequel, making sure to acknowledge the height channels by sending flying cars and hoverboards overhead as they pass....
Extras: 60
A behind-the-scenes section has eight selections, some of them on the various types of special effects like the hoverboard and DeLorean, followed by production design insight, outtakes, and photo gallery....
Movie: 80
Biff Tannen isn’t often right in any of the three Back to the Future movies, but he’s crisply accurate when stating, “There’s something very familiar about all of this” in Back to the Future Part II....
Total: 70
Back to the Future Part II doesn’t avoid a challenge in either storytelling or visual effects, and makes sure to evolve Marty McFly’s character....
AVSForum review by Ralph PottsRead review here
Video: 96
Reminiscent of other classic catalog films released on Ultra HD Blu-ray, in particular Back to the Future, from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment, these renderings take the high definition presentations...
Audio: 90
Parts II & III being a little newer, are a bit more active in terms of surround use so, I wondered what the application of object placed sounds would add....
Extras: 100
The Making of BACK TO THE FUTURE PART II o Making the Trilogy: Chapter Two • Behind the Scenes o Outtakes o Production Design o...
Movie: 70
In 1985, Director Robert Zemeckis, Executive Producer Steven Spielberg and Producer/Screenwriter Bob Gale embarked on a three-part journey through time that broke box-office records worldwide and catapulted...
Total: 89
The LFE channel is similarly used to punctuate sound effects like the rumble of the DeLorean’s engine or the thrust of the Flux Capacitor as it kicks in just before launch....
Why So Blu?Read review here
Video: 100
Depth: While there isn’t a modern day 3-D like pop to the image, the depth is lovingly recreated in interiors....
Audio: 100
Music, sound effects and off-screen noise share the speakers with lots of great moments throughout....
Extras: 80
Tales from The Future: Time Flies (HD, 28:37) – A making of featurette that is all about the work going into creating the film The Physics of Back to the Future (HD, 8:25) – A short but insightful feature...
Movie: 100
It’s interesting to see some of the things that are actually happening now, versus the thought of what might have been way back in 1989, the year the film was released....
Total: 100
A great companion and continuation of the original, there really is nothing bad to say about this one....
Director: Robert Zemeckis
Actors: Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Lea Thompson
PlotContinuing from where the previous adventure left off, a teenager and his eccentric scientist friend use a time-traveling DeLorean to travel into the future. They arrive in a technologically advanced version of their hometown, 30 years ahead of their own time. The purpose of their trip is to prevent a potential family tragedy involving the teenager's future son. However, their interference with the timeline sets off a chain of unintended consequences. The future they experience is filled with wonder, from hoverboards to self-lacing shoes, yet it also holds a mirror to the present's societal issues.
While attempting to restore the teenager's family's future, they inadvertently provide a villainous character from their past with the means to alter history for his own benefit. Unbeknownst to the protagonist, their nemesis uses the technology to transform the present into a distorted dystopia, where he wields power and wealth. Upon returning to what they expect to be their familiar timeframe, the two find a world changed beyond recognition, throwing the fabric of their reality into chaos. This revelation forces them to embark on yet another quest to rectify the past, aiming to repair a fractured timeline and prevent the dire consequences of their earlier actions.
Writers: Robert Zemeckis, Bob Gale
Release Date: 22 Nov 1989
Runtime: 108 min
Rating: PG
Country: United States
Language: English