Based on the best-selling children's book by Jacqueline Wilson, "Four Kids And It" is a family-adventure that is set on a seaside holiday. Four kids from a blended family visit the beach, where they discover a floppy-eared creature that grants their wishes. But there's a catch: the kids' adventures in rock-climbing, pop stardom, and flying end promptly at sunset—leaving them in danger each time. Can they learn to control the magic before something dreadful happens? (Gary Reber)
Special features include a behind-the-scenes featurette (HD 22:45), the trailer, upfront previews and a digital code.
The 2.39:1 1080p AVC picture, reviewed on a Sony Bravia Z9D 4K Ultra HD HDR display, upconverted to 2160p with greater resolution and luminance, was photographed digitally using the Arri Alexa Mini camera system and sourced from a 2K master Digital Intermediate format.
Throughout, the blend of CGI and live action appears seamless. At times, color fidelity is nicely saturated with hues that pop. Mostly, though, the tones are earthy in the scenes at the farmhouse and mansion at the rocky beach. The London urban scenes appear realistic. Flesh tones appear accurate in both the adults and kids' complexions. The greenery is deep green and the sand is perfectly natural. Resolution is nicely detailed from character compositions to clothing, to environmental settings and object textures. Contrast is excellent, whether with respect to exteriors or interiors. This is generally a nicely crafted family movie that will engage its audience. (Gary Reber)
The DTS-HD Master Audio™ 5.1-channel soundtrack features a dynamic orchestral score that is enveloping with surround extension. As well, some sound effects are extended to the surrounds. Atmospherics set the environments well with subtle support. Foley sound effects are realistic throughout. Dialogue can be spatially integrated but often ADR produced and forward sounding. Deep bass occasionally extends to sub-25 Hz frequencies. Smash's fling with pop stardom energizes the surrounds, as well as ocean sounds in the seaside scenes. This is an enjoyable soundtrack that nicely complements the proceedings. (Gary Reber)