Nearly 30 years later, Cutthroat Island still hasn’t escaped its reputation. But, studios who inherit the Carolco library keep putting it out so perhaps it is making back some of its money. I actually got to see it in a theater here in Los Angeles where it does hold up with an audience, but the Lionsgate 4K UHD makes it look big and bold too.
The crisp night on ship decks at sea look deeper than they even did on the big screen. Island cliffs glow in the moonlight. When they row the tender onto land, they’re plunging through a pure void. The treasure cave is a vast expanse of darkness too save only for their torches.
In the daylight, you can see millions of ripples in the vast ocean. You’ll still see the film grain because big movies shot on film in the ‘90s. The practical sets show off all the detail in the environments of the seaside town and pirate tavern, and the elaborate costumes created just for the film. The island paradise is lush.
The DTS soundtrack represents the bombastic soundtrack faithfully too. Pistol shots and crowds scampering in the rear abound. Cannons reverb and rumble, and the debris that crumbles as a result fills the room. Seagulls chirp and waves crash in full surround too.
Previous Blu-ray has behind the scenes features that are included here. Director Renny Harlin recorded an honest commentary for the DVD which is also included.