Blood Simple Criterion Collection 4K UHD Review: 4Koen Brothers

Blood Simple, already in the Criterion Collection, ramps up the paranoia in 4K. You still see the grain in this classic film, and the 4K enhances some of the most striking aesthetics.

The deep Texas night is full of shadows for hidden crime. It builds up to the climax with driving scenes at night as rain obscured headlights weave in and out of the shadow. Abby (Frances McDormand) sleeps engulfed in shadow in the guest room.

But Ray (John Getz)’s whole dealing with Julian (Dan Hedaya)’s body on the dark roads and in the fields are what its as all leading to. The light turning on and off in the apartment in the climax is just the icing on the cake.

In the bar scenes, the neon lights glow for a change of pace. Perhaps the crowded public venue is the only safe place from the dark crime.

The movie is in stereo but the menu has a car racing behind you in surround sound. The piano score also envelops you in the menu.

The 4K UHD also includes the new bonus features Criterion produced for the 2016 Blu-ray with the Coens, Barry Sonnenfeld, Frances McDormand, M. Emmett Walsh and Carter Burrwell.