The Best Blu-ray and 4K UHD Blu-ray Releases of 2018

The Best Blu-ray and 4K UHD Blu-ray Releases of 2018​

It’s time for our annual recap of the best Blu-ray movie releases of the year, and our Michael Scott has pulled together quite a list. If you’re a true home theater enthusiast – or looking for a last minute gift idea for a film fanatic in your life – these are the best new titles out there. For the first time ever, our list is dominated by 4K UHD Blu-ray titles, which frequently carry a release's best audio encode along with gobs of pixels and High Dynamic Range. That’s not to say a film’s standard Blu-ray version won’t be impressive in its own right, but if you or your loved one is outfitted to play 4K, we strongly suggest spending a little extra for the 4K version. Of course, if you’re unsure, 4K releases also carry a standard Blu-ray disc as part of the package, so all of your bases are covered.

Most of the movies in our Top 20 have been reviewed by Michael Scott. Simply click on an underlined title and you'll be taken to that film's full review. And with that, let’s run down our Top 20 Blu-ray releases of 2018!


20. The Equalizer (4K Blu-ray)

“Video and audio are off the charts and I’m really impressed at the lineup of extras, some of which are exclusive to the 4K UHD disc.” - Michael Scott

19. Thor: Ragnarok (4K Blu-ray)

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of Thor: Ragnarok comes locked and loaded with a Dolby Atmos track that’s not found on the standard Blu-ray release. And its UHD video presentation is filled with eye-popping detail, texture, and delightful color. Fans of the Marvel Universe will find this release has a lot to offer, including a great storyline and a boatload of extras.

18. Big Fish and Begonia (Blu-ray)

“There is a sense of wonder and awe to the production that explains why it was an overnight box office sensation in China, and the story itself is intrinsically beautiful. The rich atmosphere and intricate art completes the trifecta, making Big Fish and Begonia’s tale of love and sacrifice so incredibly powerful in a world where animated films are a dime a dozen.” - Michael Scott

17. Saving Private Ryan (4K Blu-ray)

“Spielberg matches his peak of Schindler’s List with this one, and it’s a very difficult decision to choose one of the two for a favorite Spielberg film. The original Blu-ray has been one of my most treasured discs, but this 4K UHD release easily outclasses it in all technical manners… Highly Recommended as a must buy.” - Michael Scott Click to read the full review!

16. 2001: A Space Odyssey (4K Blu-ray)

This true classic has been given the full-4K treatment and the results are simply glorious. Much like the storyline, 2001: A Space Odyssey’s picture quality is out of this world, and its two DTS-HD MA 5.1 audio encodes give fans the option of listening to original and restored tracks. All-in-all, this one of the more important releases of the year and a film that should be in everyone’s collection.

15. Gladiator (4K Blu-ray)

“Blacks are deep and inky, with no signs of crush or banding at all (and since Paramount used the 2010 remaster meant to fix DNR issues found on the 2009 edition, this version shows no signs of noise reduction or waxiness). It’s not a perfect 4K UHD disc, but it comes really close and is still one excellent looking film in 2160p.” - Michael Scott

14. Braveheart (4K Blu-ray)

"Braveheart will ALWAYS be on my top 5 list (no matter how hard the last act is to get through, emotionally). Paramount hasn’t given any new extras to the package, but they certainly did right by the film where it counts. The audio and video are both stunning and I have to give this the recommendation of 'Must Buy.' Do not go past go, do not collect $200. Buy the disc."
- Michael Scott

13. The Avengers: Infinity War (4K Blu-ray)

"For all of the frustrations and issues I've had with recent Marvel movies, The Avengers: Infinity War knocked it out of the park and left me speechless. Disney also didn’t skimp with the technical specs, as they upped their game in the audio department and the extras are really good for being so few. Definitely a highly recommended release." - Michael Scott !

12. Deadpool 2: Super Duper Cut (4K Blu-ray)

"20th Century Fox’s 4K UHD disc is quite the package, as it includes the 4K and Blu-ray of BOTH the theatrical cut and the Super Duper Cut (due to the Super Duper Cut being such a different cut than the theatrical) as well as a plethora of extras that are a blast to sit through. Definitely a fun watch for those who enjoyed the first Deadpool." - Michael Scott

11. Darkest Hour (Blu-ray)

"The audio is amazing and video is picture perfect, with the ONLY thing that's left a bit wanting being a fairly middle of the road array of extras. Highly recommended." - Michael Scott

10. Ant-Man and the Wasp (4K Blu-ray)

"It’s not your typical Marvel movie in tone, but Ant-Man & the Wasp is a great break from the regular Marvel cinematic universe and a worthy followup to the first film. Recommended as a good watch." - Michael Scott

9. IT (4K Blu-ray)

"Warner’s 4K UHD is a nice upgrade over the Blu-ray, with the same stunning video and reference quality audio." - Michael Scott

8. Black Panther (4K Blu-ray)

One of 2018's blockbuster smash hits, Black Panther hit store shelves with an amazing 4K Blu-ray treatment. It boasts a definitive uptick in clarity and sharpness over the Blu-ray version, with a pleasing Atmos immersive audio track.

7. The Greatest Showman (4K Blu-ray)

"20th Century’s Fox’s 4K UHD disc is the PERFECT demo disc for 2018 and had me drooling throughout the entire film. Audio and video are about as perfect as you can get, with the only chink in the armor being a set of rather weak extras. But don’t let that sway you from watching my favorite musical of the year, as the film is great and the technical specs more than make up for the lack of extras. Highly recommended." - Michael Scott

6. Mission Impossible: Fallout (4K Blu-ray)

"Simply put, this is a great movie and an absolutely amazing release, especially when you factor in the 4K UHD video being head and shoulders above the Blu-ray. Highly recommended as a great buy." - Michael Scott

5. Batman: The Complete Animated Series (Blu-ray)

"The new boxset is an impressive jump over the old single seasons we've had for years, boasting new transfers, lossless audio, and an extra bonus disc worth of HD special features, AND the inclusion of two animated movies: Mask of the Phantasm and Mr. Freeze: Subzero (previously only released through the Warner Archive MOD program). For the price this is a steal of a set and the quality is well worth getting for fans of the show. Highly Recommended." - Michael Scott

4. Coco (4K Blu-ray)

"If you have a dry eye by the time the last 10 minutes wrap up then you’re a much stronger person than I am. The audio is great and the video is just as excellent, and Disney has seen fit to give us one of the best extras packages in quite some time. HIGHLY Recommended." - Michael Scott

3. Westwood: Season 2 (4K Blu-ray)

"At the end of the day, this show is a blast to watch, and the second season is definitely recommended as a fun watch." - Michael Scott

2. The Incredibles 2 (4K Blu-ray)

One of the year's biggest smash hits storms onto 4K UHD Blu-ray with a jaw dropping video transfer. With detail and clarity abound, video fans will devour everything The Incredibles 2 has to offer. The Dolby Atmos audio track is no slouch either, delivering all of the wonderful action on the screen with realism and movement. Of course, the storyline is another winner, making The Incredibles 2 a must own.

1. Ready Player One (4K Blu-ray)

"Ready Player One is – hands down – my favorite movie of the year. It's the first film since 2014’s Pacific Rim to infuse me with a sense of childlike excitement and glee. It’s fun, exciting, and Spielberg's back to his old form once again!" - Michael Scott

 

[jdubs75]

Awesome list! I’ll be watching a few of these titles over the holiday break.

Happy Holidays everyone!!!

 

[Todd Anderson]

Happy Holidays @jdubs75!

 

[phillihp23]

Interesting..your number one pick I haven't seen yet. I think I may pick it up and give it a spin. Rental, hopefully redbox has it in 4K.

 

[JBrax]

That’s a tough list to name a #1! Ready Player One was a great movie that I thoroughly enjoyed.

 

[JimShaw]

I'll have to double dip Braveheart

This is what persuaded me...
'Must Buy.' Do not go past go, do not collect $200. Buy the disc."

---------------------------------

P.S.: I just ordered
.

 

[Todd Anderson]

Interesting that so many classic re-releases have infiltrated the list this year. Five!

I bought all 5 this year - only watched 2... look forward to finding time to see the rest!!

 

[tripplej]

Excellent list. Have seen half of them so far. Will check the other half soon.

 

[JBrax]

Maybe I watch too many movies because I’ve seen 16/20 of them.

 

[phillihp23]

As soon as the movie started “Ready Player One” I knew it was a Todd movie. The first few seconds of the intro soundtrack gave it away. Early 80’s throwback references. It’s actually a pretty deep movie if you look at the underlying storyline. The development of video games from inception too what they have become today and the influence technology has had on society and social interaction. I thought the soundtrack, video quality were excellant (4K). The previews did not do this movie justice, in fact I may have never watched it.

 

[Todd Anderson]

I’m sooo nostalgic for the early 80s. I was right in the prime of my youth! Glad you enjoyed the flick...

Mike really wanted it right at the top - and for good reason.

Happy Holidays!

 

[JBrax]

I’m sooo nostalgic for the early 80s. I was right in the prime of my youth! Glad you enjoyed the flick...

Mike really wanted it right at the top - and for good reason.

Happy Holidays!

It reminded me of my younger years playing video games and having friends over swimming. Such a good movie!

 

[Grayson Dere]

Great list!
Out of curiosity, who here has both watched Blade Runner 2049 at the ArcLight THX cinema in Hollywood AND watched the 4K UHD disc version? The reason I ask is I've done both and for some reason, from memory, I've found the cinema version to have some sudden dynamics that the disc version seemed to lack (the Elvis scene is one example). Are film audio tracks mastered for cinema different than the ones mastered for home entertainment? I was under the impression that the engineers would just do a transfer session but keep all the levels/ranges the same. Maybe I'm wrong.

 

[Tony V.]

Audio on Bluray/UHD disc's are not the same transfer, sadly some studios are opting to put a filter on the LFE at around 30Hz to the shergrin of many like me who want the deepest sound stage possible.

 

[Tony V.]

Ready player one is a great flick, Thats one of the reasons I like Wreck It Ralph so much is the nostalgic feeling of the movie. I am looking forward to the release of Ralph breaks the internet.

 

[Grayson Dere]

Audio on Bluray/UHD disc's are not the same transfer, sadly some studios are opting to put a filter on the LFE at around 30Hz to the shergrin of many like me who want the deepest sound stage possible.

Thanks for your input, Tony. That is very interesting...although for the studios I don't know why they would want to restrict the LFE for the home user.
In fact I would think it would save them both time and money to just leave it there.

 

[John Platanitis]

Thanks for the info re: 4K movies.

I agree with many on the list.
However, I would make mention of two areas of concern that I have with “Braveheart” and “Mission Impossible: Fallout”.
Being shot on film, the grain is even more noticeable on the 4K print for both films. I found it distractingly so...at least on my JVC UH1.
Yes, textures, fine detail in clothing and skin, the appearance of fresh blood etc, and the overall “earthy” quality of Braveheart are present. But, I was disappointed by the 4K version since the grain is so evident.
Maybe the grain is not as evident on a smaller sized 4K TV than my 120” Screen?

When MI: Fallout shifts to the scenes shot on IMAX, the clarity of the image is gorgeous!
But it goes back and forth from stunningly crystal clear to very noticeable grain....the movie is great though

 

[Grayson Dere]

Thanks for the info re: 4K movies.

I agree with many on the list.
However, I would make mention of two areas of concern that I have with “Braveheart” and “Mission Impossible: Fallout”.
Being shot on film, the grain is even more noticeable on the 4K print for both films. I found it distractingly so...at least on my JVC UH1.
Yes, textures, fine detail in clothing and skin, the appearance of fresh blood etc, and the overall “earthy” quality of Braveheart are present. But, I was disappointed by the 4K version since the grain is so evident.
Maybe the grain is not as evident on a smaller sized 4K TV than my 120” Screen?

When MI: Fallout shifts to the scenes shot on IMAX, the clarity of the image is gorgeous!
But it goes back and forth from stunningly crystal clear to very noticeable grain....the movie is great though

I agree, John. The rock faced cliffs in MI: Fallout were breathtaking in the IMAX shift.

 

[Tony V.]

Thanks for your input, Tony. That is very interesting...although for the studios I don't know why they would want to restrict the LFE for the home user.
In fact I would think it would save them both time and money to just leave it there.

The only thing I can think of that would be a reason to do so would be to protect peoples speakers against the chance of damage due to frequencies below 30Hz but in my mind that should be the end users responsibility to run the EQ calibration sequence correctly to ensure those frequencies do not reach their speakers if unable to handle them.

 

[Todd Anderson]

Thanks for your input, Tony. That is very interesting...although for the studios I don't know why they would want to restrict the LFE for the home user.
In fact I would think it would save them both time and money to just leave it there.

Typically, movies are remastered for home release. Quality is obviously all over the map – hopefully the massive shift to streaming won't impede on the quality of disc and Kalediscape releases. Personally, I find most (*most*) BD and 4K BD releases to be thick and layered. But not all!

 

[Todd Anderson]

Thanks for the info re: 4K movies.

I agree with many on the list.
However, I would make mention of two areas of concern that I have with “Braveheart” and “Mission Impossible: Fallout”.
Being shot on film, the grain is even more noticeable on the 4K print for both films. I found it distractingly so...at least on my JVC UH1.
Yes, textures, fine detail in clothing and skin, the appearance of fresh blood etc, and the overall “earthy” quality of Braveheart are present. But, I was disappointed by the 4K version since the grain is so evident.
Maybe the grain is not as evident on a smaller sized 4K TV than my 120” Screen?

When MI: Fallout shifts to the scenes shot on IMAX, the clarity of the image is gorgeous!
But it goes back and forth from stunningly crystal clear to very noticeable grain....the movie is great though

The shift between IMAX and cinemascope is a divider, for sure. For me, my fixed 2.35:1 screen doesn't appreciate flipping between the two. It drives me nuts!

Film grain... I get it. Perhaps I'm showing my age, but I like it... but only on newer releases. Older releases, it can be a bit much.

John, looks like you have a theater behind you in your avatar. Get that puppy in the showcase!

Happy New Year! Good to see you here.

 

[John Platanitis]

Hi Todd,
Yes, that’s my 120” Screen in behind me.
I’m a lil intrigued as well as perplexed by Braveheart 4K.
Long one of my all time fav flicks, after reading many reviews about the 4K transfer of Braveheart, I was expecting great things!
But I was honestly very disappointed with what I saw...so much so, that I was left wondering, “Did I get a flawed disk?”
It’s not merely the grain...it’s the low-luster colour, brightness and overall, the resolution appeared to be 480i at times!

I then popped in the accompanying Blu Ray and my jaw hit the floor! The colours exploded off the screen! The blue in Gibson’s face in the classic “I’m going to pick a fight scene”, was intense. The texture of the paste on his face, the cracks in the blue, the colour of clothings, armour, grass...and even the clarity was vastly superior on the 1080p version.
I could not believe the difference! Note that nothing changed in the settings on my JVC UH1 Projector.

My son came down stairs when I had the 1080p version in and he said “Wow! That looks really good!”
I told him it was the regular BluRay not the 4K. And when I put the 4K back in to the same scene, he could not believe how poor it looked by comparison.

My thought was “Is the upconversion to 4K showcasing the grain so much that it negatively affects the overall image quality?”
...or did I just get a dud in the 4K transfer I ordered off Amazon?

 

[Todd Anderson]

I wonder if your eye is reacting to the addition of HDR to the image and how a certain disc is authored. Projectors have limited brightness and can struggle somewhat with films that are aurthored for higher levels of peak luminance.... thus the reason some folks pay a calibrator to set up different gamma modes on their projector to accommodate the various target lumaninance levels for discs. Some movies are authored for higher lumance, some lower.

HDR added to an old film can backfire somewhat because the film wasn’t shot with HDR in mind. So, it can cause things, such a daytime sky, to appear overly bright/harsh, while dimming other areas of an image. And colors can start to look a tad funky as a result.

Do you have a 4K TV? If so, try looking at the film on it and see if you still think the 4K version looks worse.

 

[John Platanitis]

I think you may be right about older films not being filmed with HDR in mind. Unfortunately I don’t have a 4K TV. Only my 60” Samsung PNF8500 Plasma which is of course 1080p.

Aside from my observations of the image quality of the 4K Braveheart, the 1080P BluRay on my Sony X800 player and the JVC UH1, looked amazing to my eyes. Intense colours, rich textures, strong contrast, clarity and minimal grain.

 

[Todd Anderson]

I think you may be right about older films not being filmed with HDR in mind. Unfortunately I don’t have a 4K TV. Only my 60” Samsung PNF8500 Plasma which is of course 1080p.

Aside from my observations of the image quality of the 4K Braveheart, the 1080P BluRay on my Sony X800 player and the JVC UH1, looked amazing to my eyes. Intense colours, rich textures, strong contrast, clarity and minimal grain.

I do think a lot of it falls to the fact that the film, on disc, has certain amount of color volume intended to be shown by the creator. Color volume is essentially a combination of color gamut and dynamic range (or peak brightness). The problem is that your projector (not that there's anything wrong with your projector, it's a very nice model) will struggle with producing peak brightness. That means the intended color volume is essentially squeezed down to the capabilities of output. So, the end result can either be great or middling, depending on the film itself.

I've had 4K HDR content look stunning on my JVC RS520... and other times rather blah.

Standard HD color volume requirements are easily handled by your projector... so I don't doubt that there are times a standard HD disc can look more natural and pleasing to the eye on your projector.