Shaft (1971) 4K UHD Screenshots (Patreon)

Video

Criterion's impeccable presentation sports all the hallmarks of a top-end 4K master. Grain flawlessly resolves, wholly natural. It's a pristine print without a speck or scratch to notice.

Detail falls into place, notably the ridiculously strong facial definition. Texture shows everywhere. Close-ups draw out fidelity left unseen by previous Shaft discs. Environments and exteriors resolve the tiniest element, like price signs on storefront windows; every one is legible.

The genuine difference maker is the image density. That's all credited to the HDR/Dolby Vision, which boosts color and depth. Primaries around New York glow from shopfronts and flesh tones land precisely on point. Shaft looks totally dynamic. Generous shadows fill the frame (crush inherent to the cinematography) then nicely helped by a satisfying, natural contrast. Criterion doesn't overload the highlights, retaining the film stock's natural quality.

Audio

Differences between the mono and stereo tracks lie entirely with the iconic soundtrack. Stereo gives Isaac Hayes' memorable theme song space, if no additional fidelity. Shaft's dialog sounds coarse, scratchy, and worn. Age and source materials take their toll. At least there's a little depth in the music given how flat the rest is.