Dune (1984) 4K UHD Screenshots (Patreon)

Video

Dazzling work yet again by Arrow, presenting a faultless 4K scan of near flawless film elements (effects/composites aside, showing minimal dirt at times). Dune takes on new life in these conditions. Dune always showed elaborate design, whether in costumes or sets, but their details all stand out in this transfer. Small touches to props, makeup, and clothing appear where they previously didn't. It's an invaluable disc for prop and/or costume makers, while for home A/V fanatics, a thoroughly precise and accurate image that doesn't look like the early '80s anymore.

Precisely replicated grain benefits from a healthy encode, consistency preserved even as spikes occur. There's never a sense this is a digital transfer; it's too pure and clean. Partly, thank the visual dynamics, scoring points for pure black space, resolve detail within all-black outfits, and a carefully calibrated contrast establishes its own presence. Dune offers moments of intense light, but is often reserved by design, which this Dolby Vision pass respects.

Dune's world uses color cautiously, favoring browns, golds, orange, and yellows. Occasionally, a red vibrancy breaks free, sometimes emerald greens too. It all looks royal and gleaming, density preserved without aggressive alteration.

Audio

Defaulting to DTS-HD 2.0, there's also a 5.1 option. Both perform evenly, the stereo spread seemingly equal. In 5.1, the stretch primarily concerning the score filling the rears. Ambiance occasionally breaks free, motors humming to extend the soundstage. Thumpers push deep tones through the sub. Slightly elevated bass gives the mix a small weight missing from the 2.0 track, but maintaining accuracy to the source means missing little.

Fidelity delivers clean, near faultless dialog through the center. Like the video, rarely, other than a few lapses, does Dune sounds its age.