Night of the Comet 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Night of the Comet" receives a commendable upgrade with Shout! Factory's Scream Factory imprint partnering with MGM to release the film in both 4K UHD and 1080p formats. Utilizing a new 4K scan from the original camera negative, this presentation showcases an HEVC / H.265 encoded 2160p transfer in a widescreen aspect ratio of 1.85:1, augmented by Dolby Vision for an enhanced viewing experience. The 4K UHD version, in particular, benefits significantly from this treatment, displaying a richer and more vibrant color palette compared to its 1080p counterpart and previous releases. The warmth of the film's color scheme is beautifully emphasized, with red-tinted sequences shining through with newfound brilliance. Additionally, the introduction of Dolby Vision enriches cooler shades in the palette, revealing finer details and nuances in the film's many teal and green hues.

Despite these improvements, some issues persist from prior versions. A prevalent softness occasionally obscures fine details in dimly lit or heavily graded scenes, an artifact possibly rooted in the original production rather than the restoration process. Moreover, the initial credits sequence carries over a slightly degraded appearance from earlier editions. However, efforts to restore the film have evidently reduced age-related wear and tear visible in prior iterations. The grain, while notably heavy at times, is consistently well-managed across the presentation, contributing to an authentic cinematic texture without detracting from the overall clarity.

This release thus stands as a significant step up from Shout!'s previous editions, balancing enhancements in color depth and detail with respect for the film's original aesthetic qualities. While not without its minor flaws, the video quality of "Night of the Comet" in 4K UHD offers a compelling reason for both first-time watchers and longtime fans to revisit this cult classic, providing a visually richer experience that remains faithful to its nostalgic charm.

In the audio realm of the 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation of "Night of the Comet," aficionados are treated to a dual offering: a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mix and a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 remix. The 2.0 mix stays true to the film's original auditory experience, ensuring a nostalgic yet crisp sound landscape. On the flip side, the 5.1 remix aims to modernize the audio experience with its somewhat frontal focus. However, it's in the surround activity, particularly showcased by the prominent wind foley effect, where it attempts to stretch its legs. While these attempts at enveloping the viewer are appreciable, they sporadically lack the consistency and depth to fully justify this auditory upgrade.

Both mixes, nevertheless, excel in delivering clean, high-fidelity audio that shines a spotlight on the dialogue, firmly placing it at the forefront without letting it get lost amidst the film's diverse soundscape. The attention to detail in preserving the clarity and quality of spoken words is commendable, enhancing comprehension and engagement with the film's narrative and character dynamics. Moreover, the absence of any audible imperfections or damage in these tracks signifies a meticulous transfer process, ensuring that listeners receive an uninhibited auditory experience.

Ultimately, while the 5.1 remix may not dramatically alter the auditory landscape of "Night of the Comet," its presence alongside the faithful 2.0 mix provides listeners with options to explore the movie's sound in varying depths and dimensions. Both tracks affirm their strengths through excellent fidelity and undamaged audio, guaranteeing a satisfying auditory journey through this classic narrative.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Night of the Comet" boasts an impressive collection of extras that enhance the viewing experience significantly. Notably, the disc features three distinct audio commentaries that cater to a broad spectrum of interests: actors Kelli Maroney and Catherine Mary Stewart provide a lively and anecdotal perspective on their experiences during filming, while director Thom Eberhardt offers a more technical and conceptual insight into the movie's creation. For those intrigued by the cinematic craft, production designer John Muto delves into the aesthetic challenges and solutions employed to stretch the film's budget for a distinctive look. Furthermore, additional content including actor interviews, makeup supervisor highlights, and a variety of galleries, enrich the disc's value, making it a comprehensive package for fans and cineastes alike. The inclusion of both thematic and behind-the-scenes galleries alongside interviews adds layers to the appreciation of this cult classic’s production and legacy.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary with Actors Kelli Maroney and Catherine Mary Stewart: Insightful anecdotes from the leading ladies.
• Audio Commentary with Director Thom Eberhardt: Director's perspective on movie conception and execution.
• Audio Commentary with Production Designer John Muto: A deep dive into the film's production design.
• Valley Girls at the End of the World: An engaging set of reminiscences by Catherine Mary Stewart and Kelli Maroney.
• The Last Man on Earth?: An interview with actor Robert Beltran detailing his casting journey.
• Curse of the Comet: A profile on David B. Miller, the film's makeup supervisor.
• Film Photo Gallery: A collection of official film stills.
• Behind the Scenes Photo Gallery: A peek behind the curtain with on-set photos.
• Theatrical Trailer: The original promotional trailer for the movie.

Shout! Factory has once again ventured into the cult classic territory with its latest release of "Night of the Comet," this time featuring an eagerly awaited 4K scan from the original camera negative. This scan is utilized for both the 1080p and 4K UHD presentations included in this edition, promising an unprecedented level of clarity and detail for enthusiasts and new viewers alike. As a piece of cinema that intertwines horror with wry humor, the visual enhancement could not be more fitting, inviting audiences to experience the post-apocalyptic world in a vibrancy that was previously unattainable.

The undertaking of revisiting and remastering this film nearly a decade after Shout! Factory's initial release speaks volumes of its enduring appeal and the technological strides made in film presentation. The transformation leveraged by the 4K scan underscores an attention to detail that elevates the movie's visual storytelling, with the neon-hued 80s ambiance and special effects benefiting remarkably from the upgrade. Textures, skylines, and the nuanced expressions of the characters gain a newfound depth, allowing for a more immersive viewing experience.

While this review centers solely on the movie presentation aspect of the 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Night of the Comet," it is clear that Shout! Factory's commitment to quality and authenticity has paid off, offering both long-time fans and newcomers an unmatched viewing experience. The inclusion of both 1080p and 4K UHD formats ensures accessibility for a wide range of audiences, making this cult classic's latest iteration a compelling addition to any collection.

The 4K UHD Blu-Ray release of "Night of the Comet" has managed to strike an impressive balance, enhancing both its visual and auditory presentation while maintaining the essence that made the original so memorable. This release is a testament to the notion that careful remastering can indeed breathe new life into classic cinema. The upgrade in video quality is readily apparent, offering a crisper, more vibrant visual experience that does justice to the film’s unique blend of horror and humor. This, coupled with an audio track that retains its excellence from prior releases, ensures that fans and newcomers alike are treated to a sensory feast that amplifies the film's sly, winking tone.

Furthermore, the inclusion of supplements from Shout!'s original 1080p release adds a layer of depth to the viewing experience, allowing for a more immersive dive into the world of "Night of the Comet." It’s this careful preservation and enhancement of both the core material and peripheral content that highlights the dedication put into this release. Technical improvements aside, what truly stands out is how these enhancements serve to underscore the film's enduring charm and wit, rather than overshadowing it.

In conclusion, this 4K UHD release of "Night of the Comet" is highly recommended for both long-standing fans and those new to this cult classic. Its visually stunning upgrade paired with superior audio quality and engaging supplements makes for a commendable package. The release not only honors the film's legacy but also manages to present it in a light that feels both fresh and faithful. Whether you're revisiting or discovering, this version promises an enhanced appreciation for the clever nuance and enduring appeal of "Night of the Comet.