We previously reviewed the theatrical release of Uncharted; please consult that review for a general overview of the film. This assessment will focus specifically on the Ultra HD 4K edition.
I initially found the film adaptation of the popular Playstation game series Uncharted to be underwhelming. Following the cinematic viewing, I questioned the value of experiencing the UHD 4K version. After all, the core film content remains the same – or does it?
From the opening scene, which immediately immerses the viewer in the action, the home cinema experience proved significantly more engaging. The picture clarity is exceptional, a direct result of the UHD edition being mastered in both Dolby Vision and 4K (2160p), a considerable improvement over the 1080p Blu-ray format. Colors are vibrant, and the image remains stable due to the high bitrate (144 MB/s). Black levels are rendered perfectly, with no noticeable compression artifacts.
To avoid spoilers, I will refrain from detailing the specific content of the opening scene. However, it commences with a quiet, deliberate pace before escalating into a high-octane sequence. The Dolby Atmos soundtrack performs admirably, exceeding expectations. The audio mixing achieves a balanced dynamic range between subtle and intense scenes, negating the need for constant volume adjustments. The surround speakers are utilized extensively, with wind and other ambient effects mixed effectively to create a truly immersive soundscape.
The release includes a substantial amount of supplementary material. While some segments exhibit a degree of self-congratulatory sentiment, the content is generally informative and entertaining. Uncharted relies heavily on special effects, and the extras provide valuable insight into the surprisingly large proportion of practical effects employed alongside CGI. It is also interesting to learn about the extensive development history of the Uncharted film adaptation. Mark Wahlberg was initially considered for the role of Nathan Drake. Upon rewatching the movie, Tom Holland’s performance felt more fitting, and the on-screen dynamic between him and Wahlberg proved surprisingly enjoyable.
In conclusion, it is regrettable that the cinematic presentation of Uncharted failed to realize its full potential (at least in my local theater). The cinema’s audio lacked depth and exhibited weak bass response, while the visuals appeared dull and indistinct. Experiencing the film in its intended format allowed me to disregard the technical deficiencies and fully immerse myself in the viewing experience. Consequently, the final evaluation is significantly more positive, warranting a recommendation for home cinema enthusiasts!
SF Studios provided review copies for this evaluation. The provision of materials does not influence our editorial independence. Our reviews are conducted impartially, with a primary focus on the interests of our readers and consumers.
