TL;DR
Mission Impossible: Fallout's UHD release is a stunner! Mastered in native 4K from 35mm film, it boasts exceptional picture quality with incredible depth and vibrant HDR. The action sequences and stunts are jaw-dropping, perfectly complemented by an immersive Dolby Atmos sound mix that pulls you into every explosion and whisper. Beyond the visual and audio feast, the Blu-ray is packed with insightful extras, including multiple commentary tracks and deep dives into the filmmaking process. This is a reference-level presentation of a truly outstanding action flick that continues to elevate the franchise. Dive into the details of why this 4K disc is a must-have for any home cinema enthusiast!
Today Mission Impossible: Fallout is released on UHD, Blu-ray, and DVD (having been available on Premium VOD for several days). As one of the editorial team’s highlights of the cinematic year, our expectations were naturally high when we loaded the UHD 4K disc into our Panasonic UB9000.
The film was shot on 35mm film, with a format adaptable to the impressive IMAX sequences. Consequently, the UHD edition has been mastered as native 4K, resulting in an exceptional 4K transfer. Absent the foreknowledge of its 35mm origin, one might find it difficult to discern, as it largely lacks the typical grain. Furthermore, the depth of field (potentially augmented digitally in certain instances) is remarkably extensive. The aspect ratio is primarily 2.40:1, transitioning to 1.90:1 (as anticipated) during IMAX scenes. The edition features Dolby Vision HDR support but is also compatible with all HDR10 sources. Overall, the picture quality achieves reference level performance consistently.
The film’s stunts are exceptionally well-executed.
The sound design is equally compelling. The Dolby Atmos track generates an immersive and atmospheric soundscape. The inclusion of a commentary track by composer Lorne Balfe is particularly noteworthy (one of three tracks on the disc; the others feature Cruise and screenwriter/director McQuarrie, and the director with editor Eddie Hamilton, respectively – a masterclass in filmmaking). The film renders a detailed yet subtle soundscape, escalating during impacts, explosions, and notably, lightning strikes, guaranteed to engage even inattentive viewers.
The edition is comprehensively supplemented with extras (spanning a third disc). The aforementioned commentary track stands out, along with deleted scenes and in-depth explorations of key sequences. For soundtrack enthusiasts, an isolated score playback option is available (resembling a high-production-value music video). Additionally, storyboards and a breakdown of the film’s sound design are included for further exploration.
In conclusion, this UHD edition is an exquisite presentation of a compelling action film, distinguished by its incredible stunts and tightly constructed narrative that maintains engagement throughout. It is remarkable that the series has sustained a positive trajectory, with each installment seemingly surpassing its predecessor. Impressively, the sixth entry arguably surpasses the original (released over 20 years prior), approaching the excellence introduced by JJ Abrams in the third film.
A recommended addition to any 4K collection.
