Transformers: The Last Knight (2017) [4K UHD Steelbook review]

Transformers: The Last Knight, Michael Bay‘s fifth and final outing with the franchise, was an ambitious project that sought to redefine the series’ mythology. Now, with the film available in 4K UHD, the grandeur of Bay’s vision can be experienced with an unprecedented level of visual and auditory detail, offering a fresh perspective on its contribution to modern action cinema.

The Last Knight was Bay’s Transformers exit

The Last Knight was Bay’s swansong in the Transformers saga, and it was clear that he intended to leave a lasting mark. The film is an ambitious blend of Arthurian legend and science fiction, a testament to Bay’s knack for integrating disparate narrative elements into a unified, compelling storyline. The elevated resolution of the 4K UHD format brings a heightened level of detail to this narrative tapestry, allowing audiences to appreciate the intricate weaving of myth and modernity.

The action set-pieces, a highlight of any Michael Bay film, are presented in all their explosive glory in 4K UHD. From the exhilarating medieval battle in the prologue to the climactic showdown on Cybertron, every sequence is a stunning showcase of visual effects wizardry. The HDR enhancement brings a broader color gamut and a deeper contrast, amplifying the vibrancy and dynamic range of the visuals, making for a truly immersive cinematic experience.

The Dolby Atmos wins again

The film’s sound design, when coupled with Dolby Atmos technology, creates an aural landscape that matches the visual spectacle. The resonating roars of the Transformers, the crackle of energy weapons, and the roar of car engines fill the room, making audiences feel like they’re in the center of the action.

Transformers: The Last Knight stands as a significant contributor to modern action cinema due to its fearless narrative ambition. Bay takes risks with the franchise’s lore, weaving in elements of Earth’s history and culture. This approach, while controversial among some fans, demonstrates a level of narrative daring that has influenced a new generation of action films.

Moreover, Bay’s use of IMAX 3D cameras for shooting large parts of the film pushed the boundaries of filmmaking technology. These sequences, when viewed in 4K UHD, offer a mesmerizing depth of field and image clarity, creating a sense of scale and immersion that’s rare even in contemporary action cinema.

New characters…five movies in!

The introduction of new characters, both human and robotic, adds to the series’ continually evolving narrative tapestry. From Sir Edmund Burton’s (Anthony Hopkins) eccentric charm to the morally complex Autobot, Cogman, the characters shine brighter in the 4K UHD version, thanks to the enhanced visual detail and color accuracy.

However, The Last Knight isn’t immune to criticism. The film’s complex plot and lengthy runtime were points of contention among critics and audiences. Yet, these issues do not significantly diminish the film’s technical achievements or its impact on the action genre.

In conclusion, Transformers: The Last Knight, as seen through the lens of 4K UHD, is a testament to Michael Bay’s ability to harmonize grand spectacle with narrative ambition. It is an explosion of color, sound, and action that redefines what’s possible in modern action cinema. Despite its narrative complexities, the film stands as a shining example of Bay’s enduring impact on the genre. Its technical mastery and narrative audacity continue to inspire filmmakers, promising a future for action cinema that is as exciting and dynamic as a Transformer in full battle mode.

What’s on The Last Knight 4K UHD Steelbook?

Let’s talk about The Last Knight coming to 4K UHD. It’s not that different from the past two 4K UHD releases. The special features are ported over, however the Atmos track seems to be the big upgrade on the A/V Quality side. Whomever is making these audio tracks for Paramount needs a pat on the back.

So, if you don’t already own these releases in 4K UHD, then pick it up. Otherwise, I can’t say many people will need to upgrade this one except for superb audio. But, depending on your home theater setup…your miles may vary.

Transformers: The Last Knight hits 4K UHD as part of the new Transformers 4K UHD Steelbook collection