Is the Elm Street 4K Collection Worth an Upgrade? A Deep Dive Review
It's been a long wait for fans of the iconic 'A Nightmare on Elm Street' franchise to see their beloved horror series in 4K. After the first film's release last year, the anticipation for the rest of the collection was palpable. And now, Warner Bros. has delivered, sending over a copy of the Elm Street 4K Collection for review. So, is it worth the upgrade? Let's dive in.
Visual Excellence, But with a Caveat
The Elm Street franchise has always been known for its visually stunning aesthetics, with intense colors and dynamic contrast. And the 4K remaster does not disappoint. The films look absolutely stunning, with a perfect balance of grain and clarity. The original HD transfers were passable, but the 4K version takes the visuals to a whole new level. However, there's a catch. Wes Craven's 'New Nightmare' stands out as a bit too bright, almost losing its edge. Its TV movie aesthetic is amplified, which might be a letdown for some fans.
Audio Immersion: A True Upgrade
Where the Elm Street 4K Collection truly shines is in its audio. Each film features an incredible Dolby Atmos mix, raising the bar for the entire series. The audio on 'Freddy's Revenge' is particularly impressive, with a booming score and sound design that packs a punch. The mix has been cleaned up, making it a more immersive experience. Even 'Freddy's Dead' retains its 3D section, which looks surprisingly good, despite its anaglyphic style.
Missing Commentary and Special Features
One disappointment is the lack of new commentary tracks. It would have been fascinating to hear the directors and actors discuss their creative decisions, especially given the extensive remastering process. As a commentary enthusiast, I found the absence of new audio insights a bit disheartening. Additionally, the special features are limited, with only 'New Nightmare' receiving updates. These include interviews with Mark Irwin, Chuck Russell, Jack Sholder, and Robert Englund, but they don't offer much new for long-time fans.
Limited Edition Steelbook: A Desired Upgrade
The Limited Edition Steelbook set, unfortunately, remains elusive and sold out. Many fans, like myself, are still hoping to get their hands on it. Warner Bros. should consider making more copies available at a reasonable price. As it stands, the standard set is a great way to enjoy the audio and video upgrades, but it's a trade-off between quality and packaging.
Final Verdict: Upgrade, But with Reservations
In conclusion, the Elm Street 4K Collection is a must-have for die-hard fans, offering a visually and audibly superior experience. However, the lack of new commentary and special features might leave some feeling a bit disappointed. The Limited Edition Steelbook set is a coveted upgrade, but its scarcity is a bummer. Overall, it's a solid investment for horror enthusiasts, but with some caveats.
