Rating summary

Movie		3.5
Video		5.0
Audio		5.0
Extras		5.0
Overall		4.5

Transformers: Dark of the Moon 4K Blu-ray Movie Review

Paramount has released Michael Bay's 2011 film 'Transformers: Dark of the Moon' to the UHD format with new 2160p/HDR/Dolby Vision video and Dolby Atmos audio. The film generally shines, visually and sonically, on the format. No new supplements are included, but this three-disc set carries over all the extras from the previously issued BD release.

Transformers: Dark of the Moon 4K Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality 

Note that this UHD contains Dolby Vision. We are not currently equipped to review Dolby Vision but are researching equipment options and will be upgrading soon.

Transformers: Dark of the Moon's 2160p/HDR-enhanced presentation is another in the series upscaled from 2K but that nevertheless delivers a wonderful boost of clarity, stability, and finesse to an already amazing image. Facial complexities are much more readily identifiable and clear, down to the finest stubble and pore. When considering attention to detail on various elements -- whether slick office lines or battle-riddled debris -- there's a consistently tangible sharpness and flawless definition on display. Digital constructs again see a tangible up in clarity and detail, both broad-stroke details like battle damage and scuffs or the fine little moving parts that earn a much appreciated boost in visible clarity and a whole new layer of appreciation for the digital artistry that goes into making these movies. The HDR color palette adds an agreeable level of finesse, depth, and accuracy to every shade, whether warm woods or intense colors like Bumblebee yellow or Prime red and blue. Saturation is healthy and intense, and the HDR, rather than betraying the core color scheme, only brings a deeper, more lifelike feel to them. Blacks are effortlessly accurate, with only a mild drift to slight paleness here and there. Flesh tones are a bit on the warmer side, no surprise given Bay's penchant for making them so, though the image on the whole is more reserved in that department. Fans are going to love this UHD presentation.

Transformers: Dark of the Moon 4K Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality 

Transformers: Dark of the Moon arrives on the still-fresh UHD format with a brand-new Dolby Atmos soundtrack that takes the film's intense sonic elements to (literally) new heights. To describe it is simply to extend it as many flattering adjectives as one can recite: intense, huge, precise, fun, exhilarating. The track takes on all of the expected characteristics and is, indeed, not at all dissimilar from the tracks that accompany the other franchise films on UHD. Things kick off with plenty of momentum during the studio logos. That intensely deep electronic low end and seamless movement around the stage sets the stage for a bonafide sonic assault during which the listening audience will enjoy a steady barrage of sound that engages every speaker. Musical width, depth, and height are perfectly balanced, every note clearly defined, and bottom end support powerful and perfectly attuned. Action scenes rip through the stage with awe-inspiring intensity, though certainly if one is following along and watching the movies in order on UHD, the pleasure in the track is probably becoming a little old hat, easy to take for granted, but no less enjoyable. Large-scale mayhem delivers perfectly precise sounds that traverse the stage with amazing intensity and accuracy. Whether mobile sounds or stationary elements off to the sides or even overhead, the track never wants for any more room, power, or authenticity. Dialogue is of course clear and perfectly positioned and prioritized. Even as the track never surprises, its steadiness of perfection still amazes.

Transformers: Dark of the Moon 4K Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras 

Transformers: Dark of the Moon's UHD contains no supplemental content, but everything from the 3D edition carries over on its own Blu-ray disc. For a full supplemental review, please click here. A digital copy code is included with purchase.

Transformers: Dark of the Moon 4K Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation 

Transformers: Dark of the Moon may suffer from basic Bay bloat, but it's otherwise a solidly enjoyable Action film. UHD video is awesome, audio offers an enveloping theater-quality assault, and supplements are many, albeit not new. Highly recommended.