Shawshank Redemption, The 4K Ultra HD

"The Shawshank Redemption" is an inspiring drama, which tells the story of Andy Dufresne (Robbins), a prominent banker unjustly convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment at Maine's Shawshank Prison. He is befriended by longtime convict Red (Freeman) who's been in long enough to know the ropes and helps him cope with the frightening realities of prison life. As the two men grow closer, so does the sense of hope that can truly set them free. (Gary Reber)

Special features include commentary by Director Frank Darabont; the featurettes "Hope Springs Eternal: A Look Back At The Shawshank Redemption" (HD 31:01), "Shawshank: The Redeeming Feature" (SD 48:17) and "The Shark Tank Redemption" (HD 24:46); The Charlie Rose Show with Frank Darbont, Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman (HD 42:21); stills galleries; the "Bogs Takes A Fall" Storyboard; the "New Fish Arrive" Storyboard; the theatrical trailer and a Movies Anywhere digital code.

The 1.85:1 2160p HEVC/H.265 Ultra HD HDR10/Dolby Vision picture, reviewed on a Sony Bravia Z9D 4K Ultra HD HDR display, was photographed on Eastman film stock using Arriflex 35 BL4S and Moviecam Compact camera systems and sourced from a 4K remastered master Digital Intermediate format. Film grain is virtually invisible. Picture quality is superb and exhibits perfectly natural and realistic imagery throughout, Color fidelity is natural with accurate and nuanced hues. HDR contrast is excellent with deep blacks, revealing shadow delineation and natural highlights, Resolution is excellent with fine textures revealed throughout the prison. Facial features are nicely defined in skin pores and hair, as well as prison garments and guard uniforms. This is an impressive sharp and clear presentation yet exhibits an overall warm presence. This is the definitive release of this classic film that deserves to be owned by home theatre enthusiasts. (Gary Reber)

The DTS-HD Master Audio™ 5.1-channel soundtrack, while dialogue focused, major sound elements are atmospherics and sound effects, with effective surround envelopment. Occasionally there is directionalized surround, such as during a rain and lightening storm, and deep .1 LFE bass. Foley sound effects are perfectly in sync with the imagery. Dialogue is intelligible throughout with generally good spatial integration. Morgan Freeman's narration is perfectly positioned with forwardness. Thomas Newman's score is wonderful and enveloping. This is a classic that has been beautifully remastered in 4K Ultra HD. Recommended. (Gary Reber)