In "Scrooged," Frank Cross (Bill Murray) is a modern-day "Scrooge" –– a mean, nasty, uncaring and unforgiving TV executive ready to unleash a live broadcast of "A Christmas Carol" around the world. But, before the night is over, he'll be visited by his dead-as-a-doornail boss (John Forsythe),a maniacal cab driver from the past (David Johansen), a present-day fairy packing punches (Carol Kane), and a ghoulish, seven-foot headless messenger from the future. This is an updated take on a familiar favorite. Yule love it! (Gary Reber)
Special features include commentary by Director Richard Donner,; six featurettes: "A Christmas To Remember" (HD 14:04), "Updating Ebenezer" (HD 13:34), "Bringing The Ghosts To Life" (HD 09:53), "The Look Of Scrooged" (HD 06:22), "On The Set With Bill Murray" (HD ) and "ShoWest Clips With Bill Murray" (HD 02:14) and a digital copy.
The 1.85:1 2160p HEVC/H.265 4K Ultra HD HDR10 picture, reviewed on a VIZIO Quantum X P85QX-JI UHD/HDR display, was photographed on 35 mm film stock in anamorphic Panavision® using Panavision Panaflex cameras and sourced from a 4K Digital Intermediate. The grain field is smooth and unobjectionable. The color palette is saturated throughout. Colors are bold and vibrant. Hues often pop. Flesh tones are naturally hued. HDR contrast is dynamic with deep black levels, deep shadows, and natural white levels. the Resolution exhibits fine detail in facial characteristics such as Bill Murray's porous skin, lines, hair and beard stubble. Costumes are vivid and reveal fabric structures. Object textures are also revealing in fine detail. This is a generally sharp picture that should please fans. (Gary Reber)
The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1-channel soundtrack is dialogue focused and intelligible with decent spatial integration. There are some energized sound effects in the form of explosions and shotgun fire and other effects that engage the deep bass frequencies. Directional effects are effective. Atmospherics and ambient effects play a strong role in various scenes including IBC's production of Scrooge creating an enveloping presence. The orchestral/choral score occupies a wide soundstage that extends to the surrounds. However, surround energy is not aggressive otherwise except for a few effects. Overall, this is a fun soundtrack that pleases. (Gary Reber)