Daylight 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

The 4K UHD Blu-Ray presentation of "Daylight" offers a mixed bag in terms of video quality, combining both impressive detail and some limitations typical of older films. Sourced from a 4K scan of the 35mm original camera negative and encompassing HDR/Dolby Vision enhancements, the visuals in this release excel in many respects. The image presents an impressive level of detail, with film grain maintained to deliver an authentic cinematic feel. Strong color density and solid black levels further enhance the depth and vibrancy of the picture, providing a viewing experience that might surpass even its original theatrical presentation.

However, while this new transfer sometimes shines, it isn’t without its shortcomings. Despite the enhanced resolution, there are moments where the image doesn’t meet the polish and clarity we’ve come to anticipate from contemporary high-definition releases. Certain scenes appear softer, lacking the sharpness and brighter texture seen in other 4K presentations. Colors can occasionally seem bland due to weaker contrast levels, impacting the film's overall vibrancy, particularly noticeable given its shadow-heavy cinematography. Thus, while "Daylight" represents a commendable improvement over prior Blu-Ray versions, the dark thematic elements reveal areas where the transfer could have been more refined.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Daylight" presents an engaging audio experience via a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track that provides a solid auditory landscape. While the mix does not quite reach the immersive depth of a Dolby Atmos track, it remains reliable and well-structured. The surrounds spring to life during intense sequences, ensuring that explosions reverberate with an impactful pulse and contribute to an enveloping atmosphere. Although some dialogue sequences may come off quieter than one might expect, they generally maintain a clean, clear tone, supporting a cohesive narrative flow.

Randy Edelman’s energetic score is another highlight of this presentation. The music’s heroic themes are conveyed with vibrancy and depth, standing out within the mix and adding a layer of dynamism that enhances the viewing experience. This amalgamation results in a balanced sound design where major sound events like explosions and subtle atmospheric details coexist effectively. Additionally, the inclusion of a DTS-MA 2.0 Monaural track provides an alternative option that, while less encompassing, still delivers on clarity and definition.

Overall, though it may not redefine audio excellence, this DTS-HD Master Audio track is more than serviceable, satisfying both casual viewers and aficionados seeking quality in their home theater audio experience. The soundscape is robust enough to elevate the film's more dramatic moments while maintaining an overall harmonious audio profile that resonates well with Randy Edelman's score and the film’s ambient components.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Daylight" presents a modest yet insightful collection of extras, although some content from Universal’s previous Blu-ray release is notably absent, such as The Daylight Archives. The disc retains an informative audio commentary by director Rob Cohen, which is heavy on the technical aspects of filmmaking. This track is best suited for viewers interested in the detailed production processes rather than personal anecdotes. Accompanying the commentary, "The Making of Daylight" provides additional production insights, though it occasionally lapses into promotional content. The EPK Featurette offers a more cursory overview with contributions from Sylvester Stallone and Cohen but feels more akin to an extended marketing piece. The inclusion of a music video featuring Donna Summer and Bruce Roberts adds an entertaining touch, as do the theatrical trailers for nostalgic value.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Director Rob Cohen’s technical perspective.
• The Making of Daylight: Production-focused feature.
• EPK Featurette: Extended promotional material.
• Music Video: “Whenever There Is Love” by Donna Summer and Bruce Roberts.
• Theatrical Trailers: Original promotional trailers.

"Daylight," a 4K UHD Blu Ray re-release, revisits the disaster drama genre with a 1990s flair, attempting to capture the essence of 1970s disaster films. Starring Sylvester Stallone as Kit Latura, a once-proud emergency medical expert, the film plunges viewers into the perils of the Holland Tunnel, sealed at both ends due to a catastrophic collision involving thieves and a convoy hauling toxic waste. The narrative builds on survival rather than typical action sequences, with tension escalating as oxygen depletes and floodwaters rise. Stallone provides a nuanced performance, portraying a flawed character seeking redemption amid the chaos, effectively supported by a solid ensemble cast.

Technically, "Daylight" delivers an effective mix of live action and special effects. Noteworthy are the practical effects and intricate miniature work, meriting an Academy Award nomination for Best Effects and Best Sound Effects Editing. However, some of the CGI elements show their age, and miniature effects occasionally betray their scale. Regardless, these technical aspects contribute significantly to the immersive disaster experience. The film's initial crash sequence is particularly impactful, combining practical effects with Industrial Light & Magic's CGI expertise.

While "Daylight" succumbs to predictable tropes and frequent melodrama, it remains an entertaining B-movie offering due in part to its engaging disaster sequences. The screenplay struggles with clichéd dialogue and character archetypes, yet maintains a brisk pacing that sustains interest throughout its runtime. Although imperfect in execution, "Daylight" aligns itself as a guilty pleasure within the disaster genre, providing moments of genuine suspense and action-driven thrill despite its narrative limitations.

"Daylight" on 4K UHD Blu-ray presents an elevated experience of this classic 90s action thriller, providing a notable yet not groundbreaking enhancement to its predecessor formats. The video transfer offers a discernible improvement in clarity and detail, though it may not fully showcase the potential of modern 4K standards. The audio track is robust, delivering an immersive sonic experience, particularly during high-action sequences that characterize the film’s hallmark catastrophes. Additionally, viewers will find a variety of supplementary features that enrich the overall package, making it a worthwhile consideration for fans of the genre.

The film itself epitomizes typical mid-90s action cinema with Sylvester Stallone leading a cast peppered with both recognizable and once-unknown faces. The script has its shortcomings, marked by performances that can verge on distracting due to lackluster dialogue delivery and character development. However, the film successfully entertains through its engaging plot structure, where successive disasters propel the narrative forward in a nerve-wracking continuum. Such elements make "Daylight" an enjoyable watch, especially for enthusiasts who appreciate films rich in action yet light on profundity.

In conclusion, “Daylight” on 4K UHD Blu-ray is a decent upgrade for collectors and those seeking nostalgia from Stallone's prolific action-era portfolio. While the film doesn't quite achieve greatness due to its script and acting deficiencies, it stands as a testament to the era's blockbuster formula. With its solid audiovisual presentation and bonus features, Kino's release offers enough value to satisfy those who revel in revisiting cinematic time capsules of excitement and drama.