Starman (1984) - Review in 4K Ultra HD

      Starman, 1984.

      Directed by John Carpenter.

      Starring Jeff Bridges, Karen Allen, Charles Martin Smith, and Richard Jaeckel.

      SYNOPSIS:

      Previously only available in the Columbia Classics: Volume 4 collection, John Carpenter’s Starman now comes in a standalone Steelbook edition featuring a 4K Ultra HD version. This edition does not include the two-disc set containing the single-season TV series but includes a digital copy code, a 4K Ultra HD disc of the film in stunning 4K, and a Blu-ray containing the movie along with some bonus features, two of which were previously unavailable in any standalone release.

      If you’ve missed earlier Columbia Classics collections, there’s no need to worry: Sony appears committed to releasing these films as individual 4K Ultra HD editions, often as Steelbooks. This time around, we have John Carpenter’s lesser-known classic Starman, which was only available in 4K Ultra HD as part of Columbia Classics Volume 4, which I reviewed last year.

      I refer to this film as a “minor classic” since not every great movie achieves the status of a bona fide classic. Nonetheless, Starman represents a strong addition to Carpenter’s filmography, making it worth revisiting from time to time.

      The story is straightforward yet impactful: Jenny Hayden, played by Karen Allen, is a widow whose home becomes the destination for the titular Starman (Jeff Bridges). His spacecraft was shot down by the US government after his civilization encountered the Voyager 2 probe and sent him to make contact with humanity. This scenario is quite typical for mankind.

      The Starman utilizes a lock of Jenny's deceased husband's hair to transform into Scott Hayden, which understandably disturbs Jenny. He exploits her emotional state by asking her to drive him to a meeting spot where his people will retrieve him in three days, or he will perish.

      The pair must race against time to reach their destination while being pursued by government agents. Throughout this journey, Jenny confronts her grief while the Starman experiences the more compassionate side of humanity. It’s a touching narrative that resolves neatly in the end. As I mentioned, it’s worth revisiting.

      Sony's new Steelbook edition of Starman includes a 4K Ultra HD disc, a Blu-ray, and a digital copy code. However, it lacks the two 4K Ultra HD discs that housed all 22 episodes of a Starman TV series that aired one season on ABC in 1986-87. This series centers on Jenny’s mysterious disappearance and features Robert Hayes as the Starman, who helps his teenage stepson, Scott Hayden, Jr., find her.

      The only content on the 4K disc is the movie itself, while the Blu-ray contains another copy of the film along with all the bonus features. The film looks fantastic in 4K, assuring fans that they have the definitive home video version of Starman, aside from whatever extras they find significant. Regarding the extras, here’s what to expect:

      • Audio commentary: Carpenter and Bridges provide an entertaining discussion about the film. Carpenter enjoys discussing his work, so his commentary is always rewarding.

      • Deleted scenes: These were introduced when the film was part of the Columbia Classics collection, marking their first appearance in a standalone edition. There are over 20 “scenes” totaling about 18 minutes. I refer to them as “scenes” because most consist of minor cuts from existing scenes rather than complete scenes. While some may argue that certain elements should have been retained for clarity, I don't feel strongly about any omissions.

      • Behind-the-scenes time lapses: Another new addition from the Columbia Classics set, this includes two videos totaling about 10 minutes that showcase time-lapse footage of the crew working on two movie scenes. They are silent and set to music. I presume they were filmed to document the making of the movie, although it's unclear why they were extracted from the archives except for their historical significance.

      • They Came from Hollywood: Revisiting Starman (23:23): Created for the 2018 Blu-ray released by Shout! Factory, this is a brief behind-the-scenes feature featuring Carpenter, Bridges, and others.

      • Making-Of Featurette (11:24): This is an older EPK-style video designed to help promote the film to theater owners. As such, it focuses more on promotional content than the technical aspects of filmmaking, but it still offers a nostalgic look back.

      This release also includes a music video, a still gallery, and the theatrical trailer.

      Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★ ★

      Brad Cook