Physical Media – F9: The Fast Saga 4K Review

Roaring its engine with a sleek and stylish 4K physical media presentation, F9: The Fast Saga zooms into the world of Ultra HD with a stunning HEVC H.265 encode and an impressive physical media platform. Shot on a mix of traditional 35mm and digital cameras, the upconverted transfer delivers sharp definition, although there are some softer moments and occasional aliasing. The 4K video impresses with its clean detailing, exposing even the smallest scratch or dent on the cars and buildings. The contrast balance is spot-on, providing brilliantly bright whites and a vivid portrayal of Tbilisi, offering exceptional visibility even in the far distance. Every bit of debris hurtling across the screen is distinct, while specular highlights add a sparkling shine to hot areas and realistic metallic surfaces to the cars.

The Dolby Vision HDR presentation throughout the film brings a vibrant array of colors. Primaries burst with life, immersing the viewer in the lush greens of foliage and computer screens’ electrifying cobalt glow. The range of blues is equally captivating, from the gorgeous cerulean skies to the deep garnet of the Pontiac Fiero. Secondary hues are bold and flamboyant, such as the warm canary yellow and marigold glow of interior lights. Explosions are rendered in fiery orange, while the Toyota Supra shines in a spirited tiger shade. The film also showcases beautiful dark royal purple, soft teal, and a pleasing assortment of browns and tans. The brightness levels excel in presenting rich blacks and seamless gradations between different shades of the vehicles. Even poorly-lit interiors maintain exceptional visibility, highlighting intricate details within the darkest shadows.

Visuals Review: 3.8/5

F9: The Fast Saga roars into home theaters with a thunderous Dolby Atmos soundtrack, wasting no time in immersing viewers in the heart of the action. Debris scatters in every direction, and the sound fluidly moves across the front channels and into the top heights, creating an engaging wall of sound. Helicopters, airborne cars, and flipping big rig trucks seamlessly traverse the sound field, enveloping the listener in a captivating hemispheric experience. Explosions, gunfire, and roaring engines echo from all directions, while the score and songs inject energy into quieter moments, constantly propelling the story forward. Off-screen noises bounce across the soundstage, enhancing the film’s expansive feel. The mid-range offers extraordinary detailing, crystal-clear clarity, and distinction in both music and vehicular mayhem. Dialogue remains well-prioritized and pristine, rising above the chaos. The low-end provides a satisfying punch, adding oomph to every explosion, gunshot, and engine growl while delving into the lower depths for maximum impact.

Sound Review: 3.9/5

With Justin Lin at the helm as both director and writer, F9: The Fast Saga falls short of capturing the melodramatic silliness that made its predecessors thrilling and brainless fun. As a result, this installment feels muddled and middle-of-the-road in comparison. The  4K Ultra HD Blu-ray physical media release compensates for the narrative shortcomings with its beautiful 4K presentation in Dolby Vision HDR and an immersive Dolby Atmos soundtrack. The same set of supplements is included across both formats, making it a recommended choice for HDR enthusiasts craving an adrenaline-fueled experience.

7.7/10