Dawn of the Dead (4K Ultra-HD) [Blu-ray] [2021]: A Cinematic Resurrection

 

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When there's no more room on the shelf, Dawn of the Dead will up the resolution.

Dawn of the Dead (4K Ultra-HD) [Blu-ray] [2021]: A Cinematic Resurrection

Know all about this wonder of modern and classic cinema already and interested in just getting it without perusing my blood sweat and tears enducing writing? For a while it's available at a special, same as the plain old blu ray version, HERE so go and fill your boots!

"Dawn of the Dead," directed by the legendary George A. Romero, is a seminal work that not only redefined the horror genre but also made profound statements on consumerism, social decay, and the human condition. The 2021 4K Ultra-HD Blu-ray release is a must-have for fans and collectors, offering a visual and auditory feast that enhances this classic film's chillingly relevant themes. It is head and shoulders my favorite film of all time, and is a stone cold masterpiece.

Unmatched Viewing Experience

Having watched "Dawn of the Dead" on various formats over the years—from VHS to DVD to Blu-ray—it’s safe to say that this 4K Ultra-HD release marks a pinnacle in home viewing experiences. The new 4K scan and restoration offer unparalleled clarity and depth, bringing the horror and action scenes to life like never before. The visual fidelity remains faithful to the original print, preserving the film's gritty aesthetic while making every frame stunningly crisp.

This release provides three distinct cuts of the film: the theatrical cut, the extended ('Cannes') cut, and the Argento cut, each scanned in pristine 4K. This comprehensive collection allows fans to appreciate the nuances of each version, offering a full spectrum of Romero's vision and its varied interpretations.

Special Features Galore

The Blu-ray edition is packed with an extensive array of special features that go far beyond any previous releases. These extras offer a deep dive into the making of the film, its impact, and its legacy:

Disc Breakdown:

• BLU-RAY DISC 1 - THE THEATRICAL CUT
• New 4K scan and restoration approved by DoP Michael Gornick.
• Audio: DTS-HD Master Audio 1.0 Mono and DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1.
• Commentaries by George A. Romero, Tom Savini, Christine Forrest, and Travis Crawford.
• New optional English subtitles for the hearing impaired.
• BLU-RAY DISC 2 - THE EXTENDED ('CANNES') CUT
• 4K scan of the Theatrical Cut Original Camera Negative and the Extended Cut Colour Reversal Internegative.
• Audio: DTS-HD Master Audio 1.0 Mono.
• Commentary by Richard P Rubinstein.
• New optional English subtitles for the hearing impaired.
• BLU-RAY DISC 3 - THE ARGENTO CUT
• 4K scan of the Interpositive by Michele De Angelis at Backlight Digital, Rome.
• Audio: DT-HD Master Audio Mono 1.0, Surround 5.1, Stereo 2.0.
• Commentary by Ken Foree, Scott Reiniger, Gaylen Ross, and David Emge.
• New optional English subtitles for the hearing impaired.
• BLU-RAY DISC 4 - SPECIAL FEATURES
• New interviews and documentaries, including:
• • "Zombies and Bikers" (59 mins)
  • "Memories of Monroeville" (34 mins)
  • "Raising the Dead: The Production Logistics" (23 mins)
  • "The FX of Dawn" (13 mins)
  • "Dummies! Dummies!" (12 mins)
  • "The Lost Romero Dawn Interview" (20 mins)
  • "Super 8 Mall Footage" (13 mins)
  • "Document of the Dead: The Original Cut" (66 mins)
  • "Document of the Dead: The Definitive Cut" with optional commentary by Roy Frumkes (100 mins)
  • "The Dead Will Walk 2014 Documentary" (80 mins)

  The packaging, featuring a rigid slipcase and a four-tray digipack, highlights the meticulous attention to detail and commitment to providing a collector's edition that stands out in both quality and content.

  Critical Analysis

  "Dawn of the Dead," first released in 1978, remains a cornerstone of the horror genre. Its themes of isolation, survival, and societal breakdown in the face of a zombie apocalypse are as relevant today as they were upon its release. Romero's direction is masterful, blending suspense, horror, and dark humor to maintain an engaging narrative that never lets up. The setting of an abandoned shopping mall serves as a powerful metaphor for the mindless pursuit of material goods, making a poignant critique on consumerism.

  The film's influence on the portrayal of zombies in popular culture cannot be overstated. It set the standard for the undead as mindless, flesh-eating creatures and has inspired countless filmmakers. The groundbreaking makeup and special effects, coupled with a haunting score by Goblin, enhance the atmosphere and tension, solidifying the film's place in horror history.

  Conclusion

  The 2021 4K Ultra-HD Blu-ray release of "Dawn of the Dead" is a cinematic resurrection that no fan should miss. With its stunning visual quality, comprehensive collection of different cuts, and an abundance of special features, this edition stands as the definitive version for collectors and new viewers alike. It not only terrifies but also challenges viewers to reflect on the state of humanity and society, making it an enduring classic that continues to resonate.

  For those new to this masterpiece or longtime fans looking to experience it in the highest quality possible, this release of "Dawn of the Dead" is more than just a purchase—it's an investment in one of the most impactful films in horror cinema. You can pick up the 4K version for the same price as the Blu Ray for a limited time HERE (opens in a new window)