A Glimpse into Two World-Threatening Action Films in 4K

Immerse yourself in the thrilling world of high-definition action as we explore two gripping films making their debut in the ultra-high definition disc format. From superhero showdowns to a prophetic disaster, these movies promise to captivate viewers with their stunning visuals and intense narratives.

A Glimpse into Two World-Threatening Action Films in 4K

Get ready to immerse yourself in the thrilling world of high-definition action as we explore two gripping films making their debut in the ultra-high definition disc format. From superhero showdowns to a prophetic disaster, these movies promise to captivate viewers with their stunning visuals and intense narratives.

( Credit to: Washingtontimes )

The Marvels: A Spectacular Superhero Sequel

The Marvels is the 33rd installment in the popular superhero-rich cinematic universe. While it may have failed to garner significant critical and audience attention, it offers an exciting continuation for fans of the 2019 film Captain Marvel.

The sequel delves into the challenges faced by Carol Danvers, also known as Captain Marvel (Brie Larson), after defeating the tyrannical Kree and annihilating the Supreme Intelligence. A revolutionary Kree warrior named Dar-Benn (Zawe Ashton) emerges, seeking super-powered gauntlets to revive her dying planet’s sun and exact revenge on Captain Marvel.

Dar-Benn’s cosmic meddling inadvertently links the powers of Captain Marvel with two other super-powered beings, Kamala Khan (aka Ms. Marvel) and Captain Monica Rambeau (aka Professor Marvel), resulting in a series of mind-bending power exchanges whenever they utilize their abilities.

Together, with the help of Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) and a Flerken (an alien cat with tentacles), the trio must stop Dar-Benn’s dastardly plans and unravel the complexities of their intertwined powers.

Director Nia DaCosta’s effort showcases witty moments, visual splendor, and a movie that looks like it was made with a budget exceeding $200 million. However, amidst superhero genre fatigue and Disney backlash, The Marvels may struggle to leave a lasting impact on the already expansive Marvel Cinematic Universe.

The film offers a visual treat with its vivid ultra-high definition format, featuring budget-busting special effects, stunning production design, and breathtaking cosmic environments.

Best extras: Delve into the director’s optional commentary track, where Nia DaCosta shares her passion for the source material and her experience orchestrating a big-budget Hollywood film. Visual effects supervisor Tara DeMarco provides insights into the decision-making behind the film’s digital magic. Additionally, two featurettes highlight the cast and crew’s enjoyment during the production.

Contagion: A Hauntingly Prophetic Thriller

Director Steven Soderbergh’s 2011 disaster flick, Contagion, arrives in 4K to remind viewers of the potential horrors that a pandemic can unleash. With chilling precision, the film captures key transmission events worldwide, highlighting the race against time faced by a group of researchers and government officials to identify and contain a deadly pathogen.

Taking place in infected cities like Hong Kong, London, and Minneapolis, Contagion meticulously depicts the start of a pandemic and the scientific efforts to combat it during a winter holiday season. The ensemble cast, including Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Winslet, and Matt Damon, brings the events to life, making the film’s parallels to real-life events in 2020 all the more unsettling.

The 4K restoration of Contagion intensifies the impact of its graphic scenes and grotesque moments, with cinematographer Peter Andrews’ use of sickly green and yellow hues adding to the film’s stark discomfort.

Best extras: While limited, viewers can explore a trio of featurettes from the 2012 Blu-ray release. These include insights from the screenwriter, scientific advisors, and select cast members on the realities of a plague. Additionally, an animated short showcases how a virus can spread globally and the damage it can cause, providing a chilling parallel to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusion

As these two action-packed films make their way into the world of 4K, viewers can expect a visually stunning experience accompanied by gripping narratives. Whether it’s the girl-powered superhero sequel, The Marvels, or the hauntingly prophetic thriller, Contagion, these films offer a glimpse into worlds on the brink of destruction, all presented in breathtaking ultra-high definition.