Space Jam 4K Ultra
review by Bobby Blakey
In 1996 Warner Bros. unleashed the live action animated hybrid Space Jam in theaters to massive success. The film brought together NBA icon Michael Jordan and the cast of the Looney Tunes for the ultimate sports film. Now 20 years later Warner Bros. is bringing the film back to the fans just in time to revisit before the sequel hits with Space Jam on 4K Ultra for the first time, but does the film hold up or will it miss its shot?
In case you never got the chance to check it out the film follows the owner of the amusement park planet Moron Mountain who is desperate to get new attractions and decides that the Looney Tune characters would be perfect. He sends his diminutive underlings to get them to him, whether Bugs Bunny & Co. want to go or not. Well-armed for their size, Bugs Bunny is forced to trick them into agreeing to a competition to determine their freedom. Taking advantage of their puny and stubby legged foes, the gang selects basketball for the surest chance of winning.
However, the Nerdlucks turn the tables and steal the talents of leading professional basketball stars to become massive basketball bruisers known as the Monstars. In desperation, Bugs Bunny calls on the aid of Micheal Jordan, the Babe Ruth of Basketball, to help them have a chance at winning their freedom. This is one of those films that should have never worked, but does so perfectly. I loved this film when I saw it in theaters and the countless time I saw it over the years, but haven’t seen it in years so wasn’t sure if my love would still be there but it is.
This 4K release is beautiful to behold with the animation and live action blending together better than ever. When this film came out it was a regular thing to take the classic animation and give it a feature detailed appearance and this film was no different all while keeping the classic feel. Watching this film it doesn’t feel like it’s been 20 years since this film came out and outside of Michael Jordan not being on everyone’s radar today like he was then it still
feels just as relevant. Sure there is a dated element to the overall tone, but it’s just a fun time that it’s hard not to get in on the fun.
As much as I love cartoons I was never a big Looney Tunes fan, but really had a blast with this film when it first came out. No revisiting it I still had fun with it and glad that it is getting this new release to not only get it out to a new generation but a perfect chance to revisit getting ready for the upcoming sequel. This is a silly film with a premise that has no busy working, but is just so much fun it works perfectly especially with the greatest Michael Jordan suiting up on the court alongside the Tune Squad.
In addition to the film this release features trailer, commentary, music videos and more that takes you further behind the fun. Step onto the court with Space Jam hitting 4K Ultra for the first time ever on July 6th from Warner Bros Home Entertainment.
Be sure to check out Space Jam: A New Legacy when it hits theaters and HBO MAX on July 16th.