DVD Corner

Speed Racer 4K UHD Review

“Speed Racer” is a noble, but lackluster adaptation.  

Based on the manga and the hit Japanese anime series of the same name, 2008’s “Speed Racer” is a live-action big screen version from Lana and Lilly Wachowski. The story: Since he was a child, Speed Racer has been passionate about racing. He idolized his racer brother who allegedly passed away in a race. Now, as an adult Speed is pursuing his own racing career. Speed is approached by Arnold of Royalton Industries to join his team, but Speed declines due to his shady dealings. Royalton tries to get revenge against Speed, but Speed (along with allies like Racer X) looks to expose both Royalton and other criminals who may be fixing races and or cheating.

“Speed Racer” was a box office dud at the time of its release, but it has developed a rabid cult fanbase over the years. It’s not hard to see why that is the case. Not only is it brimming with color and style, but it truly does look and feel like a live-action cartoon. Despite all of that though, the film never connected with me personally.

While “Speed Racer” is certainly admirable in being a very unique cinematic experience (not to mention there being nothing really remotely comparable), it has not aged particularly well from a visual standpoint. While the Wachowskis do their best to replicate an anime series, the racing scenes look like subpar video games and the constant use of green screen makes it look akin to “Spy Kids” (although that franchise is more enjoyable). The depiction of the races is also puzzling and downright dizzying with all of the sliding and car stunts. It’s certainly not how I ever envisioned “Speed Racer” to look in live-action form, but that’s just my own personal opinion.

Story wise, the plot is nothing special and does drag quite a bit, but it does include everything fans hope to see like Trixie, Spritle, Racer X, Chim Chim and even characters like Snake Oiler. On the subject of Racer X, Matthew Fox steals the film as the mysterious character. Anytime he’s on screen the movie is better for it. John Goodman (who is always good, let’s be real) is also well cast here as Pops Racer. 

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 2.39:1 2160p With Dolby Vision. How does it look? This 4K transfer offers up quite the upgrade. Even though the visual effects are entirely dated, the colors look supremely rich here. 

Audio Track: Dolby Atmos. How does it sound? This is the type of movie that is made for Atmos. The races sound crystal clear.

Extras:
* Digital copy
* “Fast Future Family: Speed Racer Revisited”- A new interview with the Wachowskis. Set footage also included.
* “Spritle In The Big Leagues!”- A lighthearted extra of Paulie Litt (Spritle) on set.
* “Speed Racer: Ramping Up!”- A behind-the-scenes featurette
* “Speed Racer: Supercharged!”- An in-universe featurette about the cars.
*  “Speed Racer: Car-Fu Cinema” is all about the racing/action.
* “Speed Racer: Wonderful World of Racing- The Amazing Racer Family”- A faux documentary about the Racer family.

May 18, 2026 - Posted by nicklyons1 | 4K UHD Review | Matthew Fox, Speed Racer 4K UHD Review, Speed Racer Movie, Wachowskis