Physical Media – The Fate of the Furious 4k Review

Revving through the streets of 4K Ultra HD physical media, the eighth installment in the popular franchise unleashes a fresh set of modifications under the hood. The result is a visually stunning and jaw-dropping gorgeous spectacle, showcased through a demo-worthy HEVC H.265 encode in Dolby Vision. For those yet to embrace the newer format, the default option of HDR10 still delivers a captivating experience.

The filmmakers employed a trio of cameras, capturing the action at resolutions ranging from 3.4K up to 6K. This meticulous attention to detail is evident in the transfer, which far surpasses the clarity of the Blu-ray edition. Every frame brims with razor-sharp lines, whether it’s the sleek curves of the cars, the intricate architecture of various locations, or the interior of Cipher’s plane. Even as the camera hurtles past, every element, no matter how minute, remains distinctly visible. Viewers with a discerning eye will appreciate the remarkable level of detail, spotting even the most insignificant imperfections on the vehicles. Collisions and wreckage are captured with such precision that they retain their breathtaking detail, even during the most chaotic action sequences. An amazing improvement is the cast’s faces reveal an unprecedented level of nuance, exposing microscopic pores, blemishes, and beads of sweat, while still maintaining natural and lifelike complexions.

The ongoing battle between Dolby Vision and HDR10, the former once again takes the lead, altho by a slim margin. The overall color palette bursts with vibrancy and intensity, particularly in the vivid reds and blues of the diverse array of vehicles. Havana and New York serve as prime examples, with the screen coming alive in a kaleidoscope of colors that inject a fresh surge of energy into the action and elevate the absurdity of the stunts to new heights. Secondary hues receive a noticeable boost, enhancing the colorful and flamboyant scenes in Havana with an array of pastels adorning clothing and buildings. The Dolby Vision version occasionally exhibits a slight red bias, giving the characters an almost sun-kissed appearance. While this effect adds a touch of realism to their faces, it can make the digitally-rendered fires and explosions veer toward a somewhat cartoonish, excessively red hue. In contrast,  the HDR10 presents these same blazes in a more realistic manner, striking a subtle but noteworthy difference.

With a 2.39:1 aspect ratio, the 4K visualisation captivates with pitch-perfect contrast, immersing the viewer in a world that feels almost tangible, akin to looking through a window. Both Dolby Vision and HDR10 strike a harmonious balance, with the former offering specular highlights that possess an extra spark, lending a realistic sheen to the metal and chrome edges of the cars as they traverse the sun-soaked streets of New York City. Ice crystals in the Russian Arctic glisten with greater intensity, and fluffy clouds in the sky boast enhanced detailing and a heightened sense of realism. Blacks take on a velvety richness in Dolby Vision, but regardless of the version, brightness levels are exceptional, marking a substantial leap from the SDR Blu-ray. Even within the darkest shadows, intricate details remain discernible, lending the image a mesmerizing three-dimensional quality and a captivating cinematic allure. 

Visual Review: 4.5/5

The roaring engines and the screeching tires are accompanied by a highly satisfying DTS:X soundtrack, offering a thrilling auditory experience that will put your sound system through its paces. Right from the opening drag race sequence, listeners are welcomed into a world of muscle cars, double-crosses, and outlaw espionage. With impeccable balance and separation, the vehicles fluidly traverse the three front channels, while ambient noises convincingly echo in the background, and the roar of engines reverberates across the entire soundstage.

Simultaneously, the front-height channels immerse the audience in an enveloping half-dome of sound, intensifying the already gripping experience. The surround and back speakers contribute to the sonic extravaganza, expanding the over-the-top insanity to fill the entire room and placing viewers right in the heart of the action. Whether cars soar through the air or a helicopter swoops in to trap Dom, the overhead channels are utilised with impressive effectiveness, enhancing the sense of depth and realism.

Throughout the vehicular carnage mayhem, the mid-range remains crystal clear, providing exceptional distinction and clarity for every noise. The crunch of metal against metal is delivered with astonishing precision, while every conversation and interaction retains its discrete and unmistakable nature, even amidst the deafening loudness of the action. The low-end packs a powerful punch, punctuating every crash and explosion with earth-shattering impact. The rumbling bass adds weight and realism to the revving engines, immersing the audience in the tactile sensations of the high-octane world. Moreover, for those equipped with subwoofers capable of handling it, the sound design includes a pair of separate bass sweeps that reach an impressive low frequency of 22Hz, shaking the room with a satisfying rumble. The Fate of the Furious proves that, despite expectations of franchise fatigue, the fuel running this engine is far from depleted. It delivers a thrilling and entertaining ride, with director F. Gary Gray injecting the film with a tank full of fun, action-packed excitement, and a healthy dose of humor.

The Ultra HD Blu-ray release accelerates onto screens, presenting viewers with a souped-up, stunningly gorgeous 4K presentation in Dolby Vision HDR. Every frame bursts with unparalleled visual fidelity, enveloping audiences in a visual feast that is sure to leave them breathless. Complementing the exceptional visuals, the DTS:X soundtrack revs the engine of the viewing experience, propelling it to new heights of auditory exhilaration. The combination of remarkable picture quality and immersive sound design creates an unrivaled sensory experience that is bound to captivate fans of the franchise.

Audio Review: 3.5/5

While the selection of bonus features remains consistent with previous releases, the overall package is a must-have for HDR enthusiasts. It offers an opportunity to embark on the most thrilling and mind-bending ride the franchise has ever delivered. The Fate of the Furious is a testament to the enduring power of the series, demonstrating that there is still plenty of gas left in the tank. With its familiar yet exciting plot, the eighth installment continues to push the boundaries of melodramatic silliness and vehicular chaos, ensuring that audiences remain on the edge of their seats. Strap in, hold on tight, and prepare to be transported into a world where adrenaline-pumping action, breathtaking visuals, and thunderous sound collide to create an unforgettable cinematic experience. The Fate of the Furious on Ultra HD Blu-ray guarantees the most exhilarating and mind-blowing ride you’ll ever take from the comfort of your living room.

8.0/10