Having previously reviewed Ghostbusters: Afterlife during its theatrical release, this review will focus primarily on the Ultra HD 4K Blu-ray edition.
Experiencing Ghostbusters: Afterlife for the first time was profoundly moving. Films that elicit such a strong emotional response can do so for a multitude of reasons, not necessarily solely based on exceptional quality. Factors like fatigue, mood, or personal resonance can influence one’s perception. Consequently, I approached a rewatch of Ghostbusters: Afterlife with some degree of reservation – wondering if my initial enthusiasm was merely circumstantial.
However, after revisiting Ghostbusters: Afterlife in 4K, I can confidently affirm that my initial positive reaction was justified. The film approaches near perfection, culminating in one of the most impactful final scenes I’ve witnessed. Immediately rewatching the scene elicited the same strong emotional response. Ghostbusters: Afterlife possesses the potential to become a modern classic, achieving a level of adoration comparable to the original films.
The Ultra HD edition delivers exceptional quality. The image boasts deep blacks, and the contrast is remarkably displayed in sequences featuring both dark and intensely bright elements simultaneously. A prime example is Phoebe’s use of the Proton weapon in the abandoned factory, which exhibits no discernible bleeding. The disc’s high bitrate ensures a stable image even during rapid camera movements. Sharpness is notably high; in Egon’s former lab, labels on jars are legible when the image is paused. The Dolby Atmos sound design is impactful when required. Spectral entities audibly traverse the soundscape, and the car chase sequence stands out in terms of audio fidelity. Seismic events cause noticeable reverberations.
The disc includes several in-depth documentaries detailing the film’s production. These features contain minimal promotional content and offer considerable insight. Of particular interest is Dan Aykroyd’s evident enthusiasm for expanding the Ghostbusters universe. While a commentary track would have been a welcome addition, the included materials provide substantial value.
In conclusion, this release approaches the pinnacle of quality, warranting a must-have recommendation. Ghostbusters: Afterlife effectively concludes a chapter while simultaneously paving the way for new narratives. Given the film’s box office success, discussions are underway regarding a potential new trilogy, particularly if Aykroyd’s vision prevails.
