DragonHeart 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Shout! Factory has recently unveiled its much-anticipated 4K UHD Blu-Ray combo pack of "DragonHeart," featuring a HEVC-encoded BD-100 for the 4K presentation and an AVC-encoded BD-50 for the Blu-ray. The 4K disc supports Dolby Vision, making it HDR 10-compatible, although some packages may not include a slipcover. Both versions originate from a meticulous scan of the original camera negative, exhibiting the film in its authentic theatrical exhibition ratio of about 2.39:1. This is a significant upgrade over previous releases, such as the old VC-1-encoded transfer that employed digital noise reduction (DNR) techniques, which unfortunately resulted in a loss of detail. This new 4K transfer restores many fine details thanks to both the fresh scan and increased resolution, effectively rectifying many source flaws seen in earlier SD DVD, HD DVD, and Blu-ray releases. Despite occasional tiny white specks visible in certain scenes, the overall quality marks a significant improvement, particularly noticeable in the enhanced 3-D depth provided by the 2160p resolution.

The technical aspects of this restoration draw attention to the film's original production intricacies. The collaboration between director Rob Cohen and cinematographer David Eggby focused on achieving a visual aesthetic with warm tones and clear, vivid images, especially necessary for the CG elements of Draco, the dragon. Their methodological choices, including shooting on Eastman Color Film for its warm tone capabilities and utilizing deep-focus techniques with VistaVision background plates, are now fully realized in this 4K UHD presentation. Scenes showcasing Draco are particularly striking in HDR, presenting vivid clarity that was previously unattainable.

Further enhancing the visual experience is Eggby's inventive use of lighting, designed to complement the film's settings and thematic elements—from golden-hued castle interiors to moonlit nights that transform into golden amber. These choices are beautifully represented in the UHD and Blu-ray transfers, reflecting a level of detail and color fidelity that faithfully adheres to the filmmakers' original vision. The restoration gracefully handles various challenges, from facial tones appearing too pinkish due to emotional projection or the technical necessity of ensuring CG elements blend seamlessly with live-action footage. Overall, this release not only honors "DragonHeart's" legacy but also sets a new benchmark for how beloved classics can be revitalized for contemporary audiences, achieving a commendable video score of 4.25/5.00.

The audio presentation of "DragonHeart" on the 4K UHD Blu-Ray by Shout! is a testament to the evolution and meticulous crafting of home cinema soundscapes, offering an auditory experience that not only honors but enhances the original 1996 theatrical release. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 Surround track, clocking in at 4457 kbps and 24-bit, alongside its DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Stereo downmix (2065 kbps, 24-bit), available on both BD-100 and BD-50 discs, resurrects the once groundbreaking DTS mix employed in theaters. This mix is credited with delivering an engrossing 360-degree environment that closely mirrors the filmmakers' original auditory vision. The inclusion of the 5.1 track impressively evolves the listening experience, with its precise localization of sounds within the cinematic frame—be it the rustling of leaves as Bowen and his horse navigate the forest, or the palpable tension evoked by Draco's fiery roars paired with his soaring wings and tail movements. The bass response is notably resonant, engaging the listener with a depth that is both immersive and impactful, particularly through high-quality sound systems.

Moreover, the transition of Randy Edelman’s score through this audio mix is nothing short of breathtaking. The utilisation of the fronts and surrounds embodies a harmonious symbiosis of electronic and traditional film music elements, creating an auditory experience that is both nostalgic and innovatively fresh. The complex layering of synths, strings, and brass is delivered with impeccable clarity, allowing Edelman's composition to envelop the viewer in its timelessly epic narrative sphere.

Expanding on this auditory feast, the Turbine package introduces a novel dimension with two Dolby Atmos tracks in English and German, alongside an English Auro-3D mix intended for an 11.1 or 13.1 channel system setup. This inclusion signifies a leap towards embracing advanced audio technology to provide an even more enveloping and nuanced soundscape. Coupled with optional English SDH for the feature, the package ensures a highly accessible and engaging listening experience for audiences seeking to immerse fully into the world of "DragonHeart". This auditory curation not only pays homage to its cinematic roots but also sets a new benchmark for audio presentation in home cinema.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "DragonHeart" presents a compelling collection of extras, though it’s notable that not all materials from the Signature Collection LaserDisc and previous DVD editions made the transition. The set features an engaging full-length audio commentary by Director Rob Cohen on both discs, offering insightful discussion on the film’s production and historical context. The highlight is the comprehensive "The Making of DragonHeart" documentary, professionally orchestrated by Laurent Bouzereau in 1996, showcasing in-depth interviews with key cast and crew, behind-the-scenes footage, and clips from the film, albeit with a lack of subtitles for the interviews. Also included are Outtakes and vintage Universal trailers, enriching the viewing experience. However, it lacks the extensive "DragonHeart Archives" found in the Region 1 DVD, diminishing the package's archival value slightly for aficionados seeking thorough production insights.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary with Director Rob Cohen: Available on both the 4K UHD and Blu-ray discs, this commentary provides deep insights into the film's creation and setting.

• The Making of DragonHeart: A multipart documentary by Laurent Bouzereau, divided into sections covering various aspects of production and post-production. It includes interviews with significant figures associated with the film, behind-the-scenes footage, and clips from the movie.

• Outtakes: Featuring two scenes not included in the final cut of the film.

• Trailers: Two vintage trailers, including a theatrical trailer and a teaser trailer, offering glimpses into how the film was marketed.

The cinematic experience of "DragonHeart" has been a subject of various reviews over the past years, notably including the insightful appraisal by our Reviewer Emeritus, Michael Reuben, regarding its Blu-ray presentation. As we delve into the 4K UHD Blu-ray release of this 1996 fantasy classic, it's essential to bear in mind the evolution of home cinema technology and the enhancements it brings to classic films. The 4K UHD version of "DragonHeart" doesn't just offer an upgrade in visual fidelity but transforms the viewing experience, bringing to life the mystical world with stunning clarity and detail that was previously unfathomable.

The re-release on 4K UHD Blu-ray leverages HDR10, which significantly enriches the color palette, providing depth to the visuals that immerses the viewer into the narrative's fantasy realm like never before. Darkness and light are juxtaposed with a finesse that accentuates the thematic essence of "DragonHeart," illuminating the bond between Draco and Bowen not just through their adventures but through a visual feast that echoes their camaraderie and the movie's overarching themes. This version does justice to the original film's cinematography, enhancing scenes to captivate modern audiences while retaining the movie’s core identity.

Moreover, the 4K resolution sheds new light on the intricate details of the film's production design and CGI elements. While the 1996 CGI of Draco might not fully meet today's standards, the 4K upgrade admirably highlights the efforts and pioneering spirit behind its creation. It breathes new life into Draco’s design, making every scale and emotion portrayed through his face more palpable. This version stands as a testament to the enduring allure of "DragonHeart," proving that with technological advancements, even tales from decades past can enchant anew and find relevance with contemporary viewers.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "DragonHeart" brings a classic fantasy adventure back into the spotlight with a visual and auditory enhancement that breathes new life into the tale. Despite the CGI of Draco not holding up to modern standards, appearing less impressive and convincing than its original showcase in 1996, the effort put into the 4K restoration is commendable. The transfer to UHD and BD, though not without its flaws, significantly elevates the overall viewing experience, capturing the essence of the film’s majestic landscapes and detailed environments with a new depth and clarity.

The audio aspect of this release retains the DTS HD MA 5.1 track, a decision that will surely please audiophiles. The track offers a robust, immersive soundscape that markedly enhances the film's dramatic and action sequences. There's a shared sentiment among enthusiasts for an upgrade to include the Atmos from Turbine or possibly a DTS-X track to further immerse viewers in the film’s epic score and sound effects. The anticipation for such an audio enhancement indicates the high expectations and hope for future releases that could utilize Shout!'s 4K transfer alongside advanced sound formats to offer an unparalleled home cinema experience.

In conclusion, this 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "DragonHeart" is highly recommended for both long-time fans and newcomers to the saga. While it harbors some limitations in visual effects by today’s standards, the restoration work is laudable, presenting a significant upgrade that makes it a must-have addition to one's collection. Coupled with a powerful audio experience, albeit with room for potential upgrades, this release splendidly recaptures the heart and soul of a beloved fantasy adventure. The anticipation for possibly even more enhanced auditory features in future re-releases keeps expectations high and excitement palpable among the aficionados of this cinematic gem.