DVD Corner

4K, Blu-ray, DVD, and Book Reviews

Rudy 4K UHD Steelbook Review

“Rudy” is one of the all-time great sports movies.  

Based on the true story of Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger, 1993’s “Rudy” focuses on the life of its titular subject primarily in the 60’s and 70’s. Ever since he was a child, Rudy has dreamed of playing college football at Notre Dame. He may be small in stature and have not so hot grades, but his determination to make his dream a reality hasn’t wavered. While working at the steel mill his father works at, an accident occurs that tragically claims the life of a friend which pushes Rudy to go out and achieve his goal. He starts out at a junior college and works at the Notre Dame stadium with the hope of being accepted at Notre Dame over time. After tireless efforts, he gets his wish and tries out for the football team. Against all odds, he becomes a practice player, but will he get his chance to dress for a game and hit the field? You all know the answer to that.

Directed by David Anspaugh and written by Angelo Pizzo, “Rudy” is a sports biopic that has stood the test of time. It’s a feel good story about following your dreams, passion, determination and sacrifice. It’s much more than just a football movie. It’s a heartfelt, tear jerking, and ultimately inspiring character journey of a man who defies the odds to make his dream a reality. It’s one of those timeless movies where everything just clicks from the assured direction, the beautiful score by Jerry Goldsmith, the affecting script, and, of course, the cast. Does it embellish the ending for dramatic effect? Yes, but it doesn’t take away from the power of the movie or its messages. 

Would “Rudy” be the same movie without Sean Astin? Quite possibly not. Astin gives such a genuine performance. He’s not only the heart of the movie, he IS the movie. You’re following him every step of the way and you’re rooting for him to succeed. The cast is rounded out by numerous memorable performances from Ned Beatty, Charles S. Dutton, Lili Taylor, Jon Favreau, Jason Miller, a young Vince Vaughn, Robert Prosky and Chelcie Ross. 

Note: The 4K contains the theatrical and director’s cut editions of “Rudy.”

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 1.85:1 2160p. How does it look? While there are some flickers, this is a quality upgrade  over the Blu-ray release.

Audio Track: Dolby Atmos. How does it sound? Expect a nice clean track. Jerry Goldsmith’s score never sounded so good.

Extras:
* Blu-ray copy
* Digital copy
* Commentary by David Anspaugh and Angelo Pizzo for the director’s cut.
* Theatrical trailer
* 5 deleted scenes.
* Archival Blu-ray extras: Production featurette, Sony trailers, “First Down With Sean Astin” (a 60 second interview with Sean Astin), and “Rudy: The Real Story” which contains info and an interview with the real Rudy Ruettiger.

November 10, 2023 - Posted by | 4K UHD Review | , , , , , , , ,

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