Glory 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Sony's re-release of Glory in 4K UHD offers a 2160p transfer with Dolby Vision color grading, enhancing its already impressively vivid HDR10 predecessor. The upgrade provides meticulously fine-tuned frame-by-frame color accuracy, manifesting in healthier natural greens, deeper blues on Union uniforms, and superior skin tones. Despite no monumental shifts from the HDR10 release, the Dolby Vision remarkably accentuates the existing high-caliber visuals, boosting black levels and brightening whites marginally, contributing to the best visual fidelity this film has ever displayed.

Both UHD versions maintain a filmic appearance with a well-managed grain structure, delivering a very cinematic, detail-rich image. Each scene—from the fresh Union uniforms to the frayed, bloody gear before Fort Wagner's assault—benefits from high clarity and texture. The cinematic detail extends to faces, capturing every pore and hair with razor accuracy. Although differences between the 2019 HDR10 and the current Dolby Vision are subtle and under heavy scrutiny might be called negligible, the updated color grading still refines what was already stellar image quality. Enhanced contrast significantly improves nighttime exteriors, adding more prominent shadow details.

Additionally, Sony's attention to pristine source elements ensures no blemishes disrupt the visual experience. Despite maintaining a nearly identical data size on the BD100 disc at 88.5 GB, the newer edition leverages improved compression methods and possibly less menu data. The resplendent encode work further cements this version's status as a must-own for fans of Glory, now showcased at its absolute finest visual presentation, fit for any cinematic aficionado.

The audio presentation of the 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Glory" impressively retains the same Dolby Atmos soundtrack that was featured in the 2019 release. This mix translates the original 1989 “Dolby Six-Track Stereo” mix exceptionally well. It offers a significant depth to its sound design, creating a broader and more immersive aural experience. Notably, sounds such as cannonballs and artillery fire are precisely placed, moving seamlessly throughout the listening area, which heightens the overall viewing experience.

James Horner’s iconic score benefits greatly from this mix, utilizing height channels effectively to enrich the spatial aspect of the music. The low-frequency effects (LFE) are particularly commendable for a film of this era, delivering a balanced low-end that enhances dramatic moments without overwhelming the listener. Dialogue remains clear and intelligible throughout, maintaining consistency with the overall high-quality auditory experience. Additionally, Sony has thoughtfully included both 5.1 and 2.0 stereo mixes in DTS-HD Master Audio, catering to various listening preferences.

The UHD release of "Glory" continues to offer the robust range of extras from previous releases. Content-wise, the UHD includes a picture-in-picture video commentary and the theatrical trailer, with a comprehensive suite of additional features on the accompanying Blu-ray disc. Director Edward Zwick, alongside Matthew Broderick and Morgan Freeman, provides insightful commentary on the movie, combining historical context with thoughtful reflection. The collection enriches the viewer's understanding of both the film and the Civil War era. The transfer quality is commendable, maintaining high standards set by prior editions.

Extras included in this disc:

• Picture in Picture Video Commentary: Commentary from Edward Zwick, Matthew Broderick, and Morgan Freeman.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original trailer of the film.

Blu-ray:

• Audio Commentary: Director Edward Zwick discusses the film.
• Virtual Civil War Battlefield: Interactive map of Civil War battlegrounds.
• The Voices of Glory: Insights from cast and crew.
• The True Story Continues: Historical context for the film.
• Original Theatrical Making-Of Featurette: Behind-the-scenes footage.
• Deleted Scenes: With optional director's commentary.

Sony's 4K UHD release of Edward Zwick's 1989 masterpiece "Glory" brings this seminal Civil War film to new visual heights. Featuring a stellar cast led by Matthew Broderick, Denzel Washington, Cary Elwes, and Morgan Freeman, the film chronicles the story of the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, the first black regimen to fight for the Union. Enhanced with Dolby Vision color grading, this release builds upon Sony’s previous 2019 HDR-only edition, delivering an even more breathtaking viewing experience. Enclosed in an eye-catching SteelBook package, the new release includes the same audio and bonus features as the 2019 version.

"Glory" effectively portrays the struggles and heroism of Colonel Robert Gould Shaw's (Broderick) command of an all-black unit. Surviving the Battle of Antietam, Shaw is offered command of the regiment and faces numerous challenges, including discriminatory pay cuts and inadequate supplies from superiors determined to undermine his unit. Eager volunteers like Thomas Searles (Andre Braugher), John Rawlins (Morgan Freeman), Jupiter Sharts (Jihmi Kennedy), and Trip (Denzel Washington), enhance the emotional depth of the film. Washington’s Oscar-winning performance as Trip is particularly noteworthy.

The film's cinematography by Freddie Francis and James Horner’s evocative score significantly elevate its overall impact. Based on historical texts and personal letters of Shaw, "Glory" is not just a cinematic experience but a poignant historical recount. This latest 4K UHD release with Dolby Vision ensures that "Glory" continues to captivate audiences with its powerful storytelling and exceptional technical quality.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Glory" by Sony is an impressive enhancement of an already revered cinematic classic. The film, which encapsulates rich storytelling, powerful performances, and visually stunning cinematography, truly shines in this latest edition. The addition of Dolby Vision and refined color depth add a significant layer of depth to the viewing experience, making it the most visually definitive version available to date.

Practitioners and enthusiasts will appreciate the incremental yet noteworthy improvements in this release. While the advancements from the previous 2019 4K release are not revolutionary, they are certainly impactful. The refinement in color grading and enhanced contrast ratios contribute to a more immersive and detailed visual experience. Audio clarity has also seen improvements, ensuring that James Horner's emotive score and the nuanced sound designs are delivered with pristine precision.

For collectors, the SteelBook presentation is an attractive feature that adds a tangible sense of prestige to this edition. Although it bears a price premium, the sleeker menu design and overall improved user interface justify the cost for those seeking an upgrade from the standard HDR10 version with its more cumbersome navigation.

Conclusion: "Glory" never fails to resonate deeply, thanks to its compelling narrative, exceptional performances, evocative score, and brilliant cinematography. Sony's stellar 4K UHD release elevates this timeless film with enhanced color depth and fine-tuning, wrapped in an exquisite SteelBook presentation. This edition undoubtedly earns the highest recommendation for both enthusiasts and first-time viewers.