6.7 | / 10 |
Users | 4.0 | |
Reviewer | 4.5 | |
Overall | 4.0 |
After escaping from a maximum-security research facility, D.A.R.Y.L.—Data-Analyzing Robot Youth Lifeform—is rescued and adopted by the Richardson family. Domestic bliss ensues until D.A.R.Y.L.'s actual "parents," two scientists, come to claim him. The Richardsons are shocked to realize that their adopted son isn't just flesh and blood, but wires and microchips as well.
Starring: Mary Beth Hurt, Michael McKean, Colleen Camp, Josef Sommer, Barret OliverThriller | Insignificant |
Sci-Fi | Insignificant |
Drama | Insignificant |
Family | Insignificant |
Video codec: HEVC / H.265
Video resolution: 4K (2160p)
Aspect ratio: 2.40:1
Original aspect ratio: 2.39:1
English: DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 (48kHz, 24-bit)
English SDH
Blu-ray Disc
Two-disc set (2 BDs)
4K Ultra HD
Slipcover in original pressing
Region A (B, C untested)
Movie | 3.5 | |
Video | 4.5 | |
Audio | 5.0 | |
Extras | 4.5 | |
Overall | 4.5 |
In many ways, Steven Spielberg dominated the entertainment industry in the 1980s. He made blockbusters that delighted all audiences, and even scored a global sensation with the release of “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” scoring huge box office and launching a wave of similar productions, with other producers trying to capture the hearts and minds of kid audiences flocking to multiplexes. 1985’s “D.A.R.Y.L.” isn’t a Spielberg endeavor, but it’s certainly taking advantage of the mogul’s moviemaking triumphs, presenting a tale of a young robotic boy and his quest to live a regular life with his adoptive family and mischievous best friend. Director Simon Wincer (“Free Willy,” “Quigley Down Under”) hopes to blend danger and heartwarming relationships with the effort, which is pushed along by entertaining reveals in its first hour, getting to understand the child’s computer abilities and his interactions with human caretakers. “D.A.R.Y.L.” stumbles some in its last act, which turns the feature into a more action-packed offering, but the gentleness of the picture supports an enjoyable viewing experience.
Screencaps are taken from the Blu-ray.
"D.A.R.Y.L." comes to UHD, listed as "presented in HDR and newly restored from its 35mm original camera negative." The viewing experience remains
outstandingly film-like, with heavier but well resolved grain. Detail is preserved, delivering an appealing look at skin particulars on the cast, who offer a
wide range of age. Costuming is fibrous. Suburban exteriors and science lab tours retain depth, and interiors secure decorative additions, especially
when the story moves into control rooms and living spaces. Color is alert, with a warmer tones for family life, and greenery is distinct. Primaries are
crisp, doing well with period fashion and domestic style. Colder hues are found with military events. Blacks are deep, preserving evening events and
shadow play. Whiteness is also distinct during sterile moments of medical inspection. Highlights are tasteful. Source is in good condition. Some "rolling"
visual distortion is found during the climatic car chase. It's mild and brief but present, more distinct during darker night shots, away from police lights.
The 2.0 DTS-HD MA mix (listed as the "original English stereo soundtrack") delivers a powerful understanding of the "D.A.R.Y.L." listening experience. Dialogue exchanges are precise, securing softer emotional moments and more heated exchanges in the finale. Scoring is fresh, with clear instrumentation and position, often delivering warm orchestra swells. Sound effects are sharp and active, and "D.A.R.Y.L." is fond of using shock moments to jolt listeners. Atmospherics are appreciable, with crowd bustle for baseball events and research facility movement.
"D.A.R.Y.L." goes from family business to visual effects in its last act, muting its early intent to be a somewhat tender study of belonging for the robot boy. Thrills are prioritized by the production, and Wincer gets to a certain level of excitement, but overkill starts to set in once the fight takes to the skies in a superpowered jet. The grand finale doesn't fully connect to the domestic experience of the first hour, but "D.A.R.Y.L." doesn't collapse, remaining charming with its study of A.I. need. Performances are spot-on, finding Oliver hitting all the right notes in the leading role, and scoring by Marvin Hamlisch carries a Williams-esque tone, accentuating the Spielberg-ian atmosphere of the endeavor, which, in select moments, handles with authority.
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