At TechRadar, we use 4K Blu-ray to review the best TVs and soundbars, and some of us are collectors too, regularly looking for new discs to add to our shelves.
I reviewed a ton of discs for Blu-ray Bounty, a monthly column in which we review the picture and sound quality of the latest 4K releases. One area where I’ve seen 4K make a big difference is in classic films (think 1940s and 1960s), where a 4K restoration breathes new life into those vintage films.
6 Classic Movies on 4K Blu-ray
The sound of music
One of the most spectacular 4K discs I’ve watched, The sound of music is breathtaking in 4K. The textures are sharp, from the mountains and fields to the skin of the characters. But it’s really the color that makes this restoration shine. They look bold and bright throughout, with a scene in a fruit market showing stunning oranges and reds, and shots of the green fields displaying wonderful vibrancy.
The sound of music’s Dolby Atmos soundtrack delivers one of the best scores in cinema with true clarity. The vocals are crystal clear and the music itself is precise and well balanced. This disc is a real treat for home theater audio systems.
Double compensation
Double compensation was one of my first experiences with a 4K restoration of a classic film. This 4K release from The Criterion Collection delivers strong contrast with deep blacks, crisp whites, and a refined range of gray tones. The textures have a 3D effect, bringing out the details of the clothing.
There’s not much to write about the sound, as this disc features a monaural soundtrack. Yet the speech is clear and balances well with the dramatic score.
The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
The good, the bad and the ugly looks sensational on Arrow Video’s 4K version. From the original Techniscope 2-perforation negative, where this restoration shines in its detail. The close-ups really show the dirt and facial hair, as well as weathered skin and frown lines in great detail. Colors also appear vibrant, the blue sky in particular.
The DTS-HD MA 5.1 soundtrack I listened to during my review was superb. The ricocheting bullets during shootouts are accurately mapped, the galloping horses produce a real roar, and the film’s iconic soundtrack is clear and bright throughout. This record sounds excellent when played through one of the best soundbars.
Seven samurai
This 4K restoration of Seven samurai was handled by Toho, the original production company, and did an excellent job. The contrast is brilliant, with a perfect balance between light and dark tones with gray tones in between. Shadow detail during nighttime scenes is also impressive. Textures are clean, clothes and skin appear refined.
With a DTS-HD MA 1.0 soundtrack, Seven samurai won’t test the limits of your home theater. Despite this, the dialogue is clear, the score seems nicely cleaned up, and the action-packed scenes with clashing swords have a good level of punch.
Sunset Boulevard
Sunset Boulevard is another black and white film that really benefits from the 4K treatment. Light and dark tones are well balanced for strong contrast and textures appear true to life.
The Dolby TrueHD 5.1 soundtrack was handled expertly. The speech is crystal clear in Gillis’ narration, and the film’s tense, string-heavy music is perfectly performed.
Godzilla (1954)
The Criterion Collection’s 4K restoration Godzilla is visually impressive. The characters and locations feel authentic and detailed. Contrast is strong, with strong highlights such as neon signs during dark scenes. Blacks are deep and there is a full range of gray tones. It’s another great example of how a 4K restoration can freshen up a classic film.
With a mono soundtrack, there’s not much here to improve your home theater audio system. Still, the dialogue is clear, the explosions have a good impact and Godzilla’s iconic roar is cleanly delivered.
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