Krampus 4K UHD Screenshots (Patreon)

Video

Upscaled from a 2K digital source, Krampus only reaches a certain high - and that's only fair. Detail lacks all around, overly smoothed by the source camera, and the best texture comes from the noise. The latter varies in intensity, and at times is poorly handled by the encode. A spot or two of ringing shows up as well. Krampus doesn't gain much in the jump to a new format.

While Dolby Vision brings a substantial level of contrast, it's almost too much in the first act. Brightness is overwhelming and aggressive. Clipping shows at various times until the darker tones take hold, letting shadows bring the dimension.

Krampus uses two palettes, the typical warm and cool hues that follow the intended tone. Neither is without intensity in the primaries though. Christmas reds jump from every possible source. There's a near equal amount of green too. Saturation is the best thing on the disc.

Audio

Mixed overly low, prepare to boost the volume a few notches. In Atmos, Krampus has some fun with the audio, but misses opportunities like heavy winds that barely use the height channels. What's missed in the ambiance isn't lacking during the action though. Krampus jumps between rooftops, his attack strategy great for this codec. His presence becomes a constant whenever around. Other positional channels toy with the horror and/or jump scares, building tension by keeping effects dancing around the soundstage.

While not substantial, the low-end sees consistent use, adding bit to Krampus' footsteps. Each stomp feels large and weighted.