Super 8 4K review by Bobby Blakey
Before stepping into the Star Wars universe and right out of his trip into Star Trek director J. J. Abrams brought audiences a film seemingly out of nowhere called Super 8. The film teamed him up with Steven Spielberg as producer and proved to be a major hit when it was released in 2011. Now Paramount is bringing the film home on 4K Ultra for the first time ever.
Super 8 follows the story of six friends who witness a train wreck while making a Super 8 movie, only to discover that something unimaginable escaped during the crash. They soon discover that the only thing more mysterious than what it is, is what it wants.
I remember when this original trailer debuted I was intrigued, but not overly impressed so didn’t expect all that much. As it ramped up its promotions I began to have more interest in this mystery project especially with Spielberg producing and Abrams at the helm. Coming out this film was nothing like I had expected and kicks all kinds of ass. At the time of its release it felt familiar but original playing up on nostalgia and just plain fun.
The film sits in the same realm as films like The Goonies and Monster Squad without stealing anything from them and doing its own thing. The overall tone
screams 70s and 80s to perfection and delivers in the action and fun making it one of my favorites that year. The film has so much to love, but its really the kids dynamic and struggles that makes it work. Each of the kids really bring their A game offering up some great likeable characters that are also forced to deal with real emotions as well as the crazed monster movie dangers.
The question with a movie like this though is does it hold up and does the new 4K version do it justice? It’s been a bit since I revisited it, but it holds up to perfection. Abrams did a great job of balancing the relationship of the kids, drama, humor and sci-fi into something that to me is another classic at this point that I am glad is getting this updated presentation. The visuals in 4K are further enhanced in high definition bringing every lense flair and effect to glorious life and take the film to new visual heights.
I love this movie more now than when it original came out and so happy for this updated release. Everything about it just works and I am even happier that it was never tainted with attempting a sequel and just let it stand on its own as it should.
This new release not only offers up the film in 4K Ultra for the first time, but also all the previously released bonus content including commentary, deleted scenes, Easter Eggs and numerous featurettes that take you behind bringing this classic to life. Grab your copy of Super 8 on 4K Ultra available now from Paramount Home Entertainment.