Turbulence 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Turbulence" by Kino Lorber is an exceptional upgrade over previous editions, offering a stunning visual experience that brings the film to new heights. This release features a 4K Blu-ray/Blu-ray combo pack, with the 4K disc being region-free and the Blu-ray region-A locked. The 4K transfer is derived from an exclusive new master struck from the original camera negative and uses Dolby Vision to elevate the viewing experience. Delineation, clarity, and depth stand out prominently, providing viewers with an incredibly immersive visual quality. The color balance is impressive; primaries and nuances are distinctly vibrant, particularly notable in the challenging darker interior scenes of the film which are rendered with exceptional fidelity.

Comparing the native 4K presentation to the 1080p Blu-ray, both formats perform admirably. Still, the 4K version boasts a significant edge in fluidity and detail, particularly on larger screens where fast zooms and cuts demonstrate a perceptibly smoother execution. Despite a generally high-quality transfer on the 1080p Blu-ray, certain sequences benefit immensely from the higher resolution and advanced encoding optimizations available in 4K. There are no noticeable traces of unnecessary digital corrections, ensuring that the integrity of the original visual aesthetic is maintained. Overall, this release makes "Turbulence" appear remarkably fresh and modern, capturing even the subtlest details with precision.

The audio presentation of the 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Turbulence" is available in two configurations: English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. For viewers preferring subtitles, there are optional English SDH subtitles that appear neatly within the image frame when enabled. Utilizing the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track, the film's audio delivery exhibits tremendous dynamism, perfectly complementing its action-packed narrative.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track showcases dynamic movement and rich surround activity that significantly enhances the viewing experience. The track particularly excels during intense action sequences, providing immersive audio that tests the thorough range of an audio system. The bass activity is robust and well-defined, adding substantial depth to explosive scenes. Dialogue remains consistently clear, sharp, and easy to comprehend, which is critical for maintaining the film’s momentum and engagement. Throughout the viewing experience, there were no notable encoding anomalies, suggesting a high-quality audio transfer.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track serves as a competent alternative, delivering clear dialogue and satisfactory sound staging for those with simpler audio setups. Nonetheless, the 5.1 track is the preferred option for an optimal auditory experience due to its broad dynamic range and enhanced surround capabilities. Overall, “Turbulence” on 4K UHD Blu-ray provides a stellar audio experience that captures the intensity and excitement of the film impeccably.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Turbulence" offers a robust selection of extras that add significant insights and context to the film. The highlight is an exclusive audio commentary by director Robert Butler, moderated by filmmaker Joe Begos. Butler provides detailed recollections about his initial meeting with Ray Liotta, the meticulous preparation involved in making the film, and engaging commentary on the visual style, special effects, and the film's publicity and reception. Additionally, fans can enjoy a collection of vintage U.S. promotional materials including a theatrical trailer, multiple TV spots, and a radio spot, all in English and not subtitled. These extras collectively offer a comprehensive and engaging deep dive into the making and marketing of this mid-90s action thriller.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Exclusive new audio commentary by director Robert Butler, moderated by Joe Begos.
• Trailer: Vintage U.S. theatrical trailer for Turbulence.
• TV Spots: Several vintage U.S. TV spots for Turbulence.
• Radio Spot: Vintage U.S. radio spot for Turbulence.

Robert Butler's Turbulence (1997) arrives on 4K Blu-ray courtesy of Kino Lorber, featuring an exclusive new audio commentary by Butler moderated by filmmaker Joe Begos, and vintage promotional materials. Initially delayed due to a real-life aviation disaster, Turbulence saw limited success during its theatrical release but found an audience in the home video market, inspiring what are often mischaracterized as sequels.

The film begins with a captivating prologue: Ryan Weaver (Ray Liotta) seems to be lovingly addressing a woman, only to be revealed as a handcuffed prisoner being transported on a nearly empty commercial flight to Los Angeles. Sharing the plane is another restrained character, Stubbs (Brendan Gleeson). Pandemonium erupts when Stubbs murders his guard, leading to a takeover of the plane by both prisoners. Weaver then kills Stubbs, marking the film's pivot into progressively illogical and implausible storytelling.

From the midway point onward, Turbulence delves into absurdity with Weaver transforming into an unhinged antagonist. Weaver's intention to crash the plane becomes apparent as he confines the remaining survivors and taunts the sole unrestrained flight attendant (Lauren Holly). Her attempts to thwart his plan form the crux of the action in the significantly weaker second and third acts. The script falters under the weight of numerous irrational sequences that even stellar polishing couldn't save. Despite its defiance of logic, the film offers moments of chaotic entertainment, especially the striking visuals of a Boeing 747 performing improbable maneuvers as it nears Los Angeles. Shot by cinematographer Lloyd Ahern II, known for work on superior projects like Trespass and Last Man Standing, Turbulence struggles to capture a similar magic, rendering it a noteworthy yet flawed footnote in 1990s action thrillers.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Turbulence" presents an intriguing case study of picture quality juxtaposed against its narrative shortcomings. Visually, the film achieves remarkable clarity, with a meticulously restored transfer that breathes new life into every frame. The colors are vibrant, and the detail is razor-sharp, showcasing a significant upgrade from previous DVD and Blu-ray releases. High-Dynamic Range (HDR) implementation notably enhances the viewing experience, particularly in dark and high-contrast scenes where black levels are deep and highlights are bright without any discernible loss of detail.

Sound quality matches the picture, offering an immersive audio experience that takes full advantage of modern surround sound technologies. The jet engine roars, turbulent airflow, and chaotic in-flight noises are rendered with striking realism, enveloping the viewer in the film’s high-stakes scenarios. The soundtrack’s dynamic range is evident, balancing dialogue, sound effects, and musical score seamlessly to maintain the film's intense atmosphere.

In summary, "Turbulence" benefits enormously from its 4K treatment, despite the movie's lack of logical coherence and narrative depth. While its attempt at creating a serious thriller is undermined by a script allergic to logic, fans of the film will find considerable joy in this pristine presentation. For aficionados of '90s action cinema or those with nostalgic ties to the film, this UHD Blu-ray package is highly recommended. However, those unfamiliar with "Turbulence" may want to approach with tempered expectations regarding the story’s quality despite the excellent technical delivery.