Mars attacks! gets 4k treatment – burton’s alien chaos returns
Ack! Ack! Prepare for a full-screen invasion. Tim Burton’s gloriously grotesque Mars Attacks! is finally getting the 4K upgrade it deserves, landing on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray and digital storefronts August 11th.
A decade of discomfort – and now, clarity
Thirty years after its initial, delightfully deranged release, the film – a loving, if utterly unsettling, send-up of 1950s B-Movies – is being painstakingly remastered. The new release promises a visual overhaul previously unseen, incorporating behind-the-scenes footage and offering a deeper dive into the creative process.
IGN has secured exclusive access to a new extended clip, showcasing the film’s distinctive aesthetic – a chaotic blend of practical effects and groundbreaking CGI that truly defined a generation of sci-fi spoofs. But it’s not just about the visuals; the 4K release packs a serious dose of supplemental material.
Delving into the delirium
Expect extended interviews with the filmmakers, reflecting on the sheer madness that fueled the production. Specifically, the feature ‘Looking Back on Mars Attacks!’ will see Burton and key cast members swapping stories about working with the director on what many consider to be one of the 90s’ most audacious cinematic endeavors. There’s also a segment, ‘Aesthetic Filmmakers,’ dissecting the film’s unique visual style – how then-cutting-edge CGI was deployed to amplify the inherent weirdness and create the iconic look that still chills audiences today.
The cast, a veritable rogues’ gallery of talent, includes Jack Nicholson, playing both President Dale and casino owner Land, alongside Glenn Close, Annette Bening, and a host of other recognizable faces: Tom Jones himself, lending his distinctive voice to the proceedings. Don’t forget Danny DeVito and a surprisingly prominent role for Rod Steiger.
Beyond the core features, the 4K Blu-ray and digital release will include: ‘Looking Back on Mars Attacks!’, ‘Aesthetic Filmmakers’, and a wealth of previously unseen bonus content. It’s a comprehensive revisiting of a film that simultaneously terrified and entertained, and a testament to Burton’s singular vision. Forget politely charming – this is pure, unadulterated cinematic mayhem. August 11th. Don’t blink.