I have previously reviewed the theatrical release of Black Widow. This review focuses specifically on the Blu-ray release.
I enjoyed Black Widow in the cinema, and revisiting it in a home theater environment has, in my opinion, enhanced the experience. Knowing the narrative progression allowed me to concentrate on the nuances of the film itself, rather than anticipating future plot points. On this second viewing, I particularly appreciated Florence Pugh’s performance; her expressive acting and comedic timing are remarkable. I anticipate her future contributions to the MCU with considerable interest.
The Blu-ray edition presents a commendable visual experience, characterized by sharp detail, rich contrast, and satisfying black levels. Color reproduction is accurate and pleasing. The picture quality effectively showcases the capabilities of Blu-ray technology. The same can be said for the DTS-HD 7.1 audio, which delivers a genuinely immersive experience, handling everything from subtle dialogue to impactful action sequences with precision. Black Widow is also available on UHD, and unfortunately, a review copy of that version was not provided. As a reviewer, I always strive to evaluate films in the highest possible quality. Physical UHD releases offer demonstrably superior image quality (higher resolution and HDR) and stability compared to streaming alternatives. The audio experience is also enhanced. The absence of a Dolby Atmos track is regrettable, even if it meant a slightly reduced video bitrate.
While the extras appear plentiful on paper, they consist primarily of short documentaries that offer limited insight into the production process. A collection of brief deleted scenes is also included. The blooper reel, showcasing the cast’s on-set interactions, is a highlight.
Black Widow will be available on Disney+ starting October 6th (2021) as part of the standard subscription. The film will be presented in 4K with Dolby Atmos; however, it’s important to consider the bitrate limitations inherent in streaming platforms, which can, at times, result in a visual experience that is less impressive than the Full HD and DTS-HD presentation on Blu-ray.
In conclusion, I would increase my rating relative to the theatrical release. This is partly because Black Widow benefited from a second viewing, and partly because the Blu-ray edition provides a highly enjoyable home cinema experience (which you can win on senses!). A true UHD 4K presentation would likely be considered essential viewing.
