Triangle of Sadness 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Criterion's release of "Triangle of Sadness" in 4K UHD Blu-ray is a technical marvel, showcasing the film with such clarity, depth, and vivid color representation that it far surpasses expectations even without Dolby Vision or HDR support. The dual-format release features a Region-Free 4K disc and a Region-A locked Blu-ray. Notably, when comparing screencaptures from both resolutions, the superiority of the 4K presentation is evident in terms of delineation and depth, particularly in well-lit environments as well as darker scenes where light is minimal. Despite this, the 1080p version still impresses with its stunning detail and remarkable visual quality, exemplified by the lushness of colors that resemble those of digital posters, yet without any digital harshness.

The approved 2160p 2.38:1 transfer by Ruben Östlund leverages a robust bitrate to enhance every frame's depth and detail, making "Triangle of Sadness" an Insta-ready visual experience. From intricate textures in clothing and set designs to the nuanced skin tones of characters, every element is crisply defined and bursting with life. Furthermore, colors receive a luminous boost over the Blu-ray version, showcasing vivid primaries and accurate skin tones that add an extra layer of realism to the film. The black levels impress with deep, inky shades and significant shadow gradation, which contributes to a rich, three-dimensional viewing experience.

The 4K UHD presentation of "Triangle of Sadness" stands as a pinnacle of 4K technology, with outstanding fluidity and image stability that ensures each scene flows seamlessly. The shadow nuances in darker areas are particularly noteworthy, offering astonishing clarity that elevates the overall viewing experience. This release not only meets but exceeds the high standards expected from native 4K content, proving itself as one of Criterion’s most stunning SDR 4K offerings to date.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Triangle of Sadness" presents an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 soundtrack, complemented by optional English SDH subtitles for enhanced clarity and accessibility. The absence of an Atmos track notwithstanding, this 5.1 mix authentically captures the film's sonic landscape with pristine clarity and dynamism. Each sound, from the subtle rustling of leaves to the intense uproar of a storm, is rendered with remarkable precision and depth. The equipment used for recording must have been top-tier, as it meticulously captures even the faintest nuances, ensuring an auditory experience that's both rich and immersive.

Dialogue remains crisp and intelligible throughout, a testament to the mix's balancing prowess that allows for a seamless auditory journey across the film's varying scenes. The intelligent utilization of the surround channels creates a vivid soundscape, especially notable in sequences where ambient noises play a crucial role. The symphony of background sounds, whether in sunny outdoor settings or the chaos of a dinner gone awry, enhances the realism and emotional impact of each scene. The storm sequence in the film’s second act serves as a prime showcase of this, delivering an adrenaline-pumping experience that envelopes the audience.

Despite the regrettable omission of an Atmos version—which might have offered an even more layered and expansive audio experience—the DTS-HD MA 5.1 mix does an exceptional job. Its ability to draw the audience into the film's environment, combined with a judicious mix of dialogue, music, and diegetic sounds, ensures a thoroughly engaging auditory experience. The attention to detail in capturing and presenting sound in this release is commendable, making it a noteworthy audio presentation for aficionados seeking depth and clarity without compromise.

The extra features on the "Triangle of Sadness" 4K UHD Blu-ray package offer a rather limited, albeit insightful glimpse into the filmmaking process behind this satirical gem. While the 4K disc disappointingly lacks any bonus content, the accompanying Blu-ray disc compensates with a modest collection. Highlights include a conversation between director Ruben Östlund and filmmaker Johan Jonason that delves into the movie’s conception and its characters' peculiarities, a behind-the-scenes look at a notably revolting scene, alongside a showcase of the visual effects and a selection of deleted scenes. Although these extras provide an interesting peek behind the curtain, they hardly offer an exhaustive exploration of the film's production. The inclusion of an illustrated leaflet adds a textual layer to the visual feast, featuring critical essays and technical credits that enrich the viewing experience.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: An original trailer for Triangle of Sadness.
• Ruben Östlund and Johan Jonason: A program where filmmaker Johan Jonason discusses with director Ruben Östlund about the inception and production of Triangle of Sadness.
• Erik, the Extra: Footage from the shooting of one of the film’s most notable scenes.
• Visual Effects Demonstration: Focuses on some visual effects used during the shooting.
• Deleted Scenes: A collection of scenes not included in the final cut.
• Leaflet: An illustrated leaflet featuring an essay and technical credits.

Triangle of Sadness," directed by Ruben Östlund, is an incisive satire that delves into the lifestyles of the uber-wealthy through the lens of a destined-to-fail luxury yacht voyage, presented in a visually stunning 4K UHD Blu-ray by Criterion. The film, effectively capturing the essence of social commentary in a year filled with critiques on extravagance and those living at the summit of societal wealth, doesn’t shy away from contrasting superficial grandeur against deeper themes of equality and survival. The narrative follows Carl and Yaya, a model and influencer duo played convincingly by Harris Dickinson and Charlbi Dean, as they navigate the choppy waters of their relationship and the literal upheaval during a sea voyage that promises more than just lavish amenities.

Östlund’s craftsmanship in "Triangle of Sadness" is speculative yet admirably ambitious, weaving together a story that oscillates between dark humor and poignant reflection on societal norms. The ensemble cast, including noteworthy performances by Zlatko Burić as a manure tycoon and Woody Harrelson as a Marxist sea captain, brings to life a varied tapestry of characters each embodying their own critique of wealth, imperialism, and the absurdity of social media driven success. Although the film’s satire sometimes feels overstretched, particularly beyond its climactic midpoint which arguably could serve as its zenith, its narrative audacity is commendable.

Technically, Criterion’s 4K release does justice to the film’s visual and thematic ambitions. The clarity and depth of the 4K presentation enhance the viewing experience, highlighting the extravagance and chaos that "Triangle of Sadness" energetically explores. Despite varying opinions on its narrative execution, the film undoubtedly provides a unique lens on modern excess and the thin veneer of societal decorum that surrounds it. As it navigates through its cynically humorous and occasionally blunt satirical moments, "Triangle of Sadness" establishes itself as a significant, though polarizing, cinematic conversation piece on contemporary societal dynamics.

Triangle of Sadness," despite the high anticipations birthed by its dynamic opening sequence, ultimately spirals into a disparaging realm of cynical dissolution, failing to harness its potential as a poignant cinematic satire. Esteemed for its audacious approach, the film inadvertently succumbs to an air of unoriginality and amateurish bravado, offering up a narrative that teeters precariously between critical acclaim and the sheer kitsch applauded by an elite few. This paradoxical reception underscores a stark contrast in perceptions of quality, mirroring the disjointed opulence experienced by the characters aboard the luxury yacht depicted within. Nevertheless, the Criterion Collection's 4K UHD Blu-ray edition does not falter in delivering an exemplary technical presentation.

Viewers are treated to an enthralling visual experience courtesy of the 4K enhancement. The transfer shines, devoid of HDR yet flourishing with an array of technical enhancements that elevate it significantly above its 1080p counterpart. The film's visuals boast pristine clarity, vibrant colors, and profound black levels, ensuring a visually arresting experience that captivatingly showcases the film’s striking cinematography. Such technical prowess ensures that, irrespective of one's interpretation of the film’s thematic exploration, the physical presentation is undeniably beguiling.

Conclusively, while "Triangle of Sadness" might polarize audiences with its satirical narrative and abrupt thematic shifts, its home release on 4K UHD Blu-ray indisputably impresses. The disc's formidable technical specifications enrich the viewing experience, providing a compelling reason to explore this controversial piece from a purely aesthetical perspective. Despite its narrative challenges and murky delivery of satire, the Criterion Collection's release serves as a testament to the visual potential of contemporary cinema when afforded exceptional technological treatment.