One such film is Blue Thunder. This 1983 action crime film, while not considered a great film in Scheider's filmography, is a favorite among some fans. Arrow Video have restored and released Blue Thunder on 4K UltraHD for the first time ever.
Synopsis: The Los Angeles Police test pilot for an experimental patrol helicopter learns the sinister implications of the new vehicle.
In 1983 this film was probably thrilling. But looking at the film in 2026 there are some things that just don't make sense. I won't go into that because I don't want to take away from anyone's enjoyment of this movie. The acting is great and the aerial footage and camera work is second to none. It even holds up over 40 years later.
Blue Thunder has been transferred to Ultra HD in 2160pHEVC encoded video there is the option for lossless DTS-HD 5.1 or 2.0 Master Audio. There is also the option for English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing.
The colors are vivid and the flesh tones are correct. The picture is crisp and clean. There was no signs of digital artifacts or damage to the print that I saw while screening this film. I was thoroughly impressed with the quality of this restoration.
Now in addition to a wonderful looking restoration. Arrow Video added a great amount of bonus features to this release making it something very special. Take a look at what is included.
Bonus Features:
* Archival audio commentary by director John Badham, editor Frank Morriss, and motion control supervisor Hoyt Yeatman
* Flight Risk, a brand new interview with director John Badham
* A Rollercoaster Ride, a brand new interview with actor Candy Clark
* Catching Up, a brand new interview with actor Malcolm McDowell
* Ride with the Angels: Making Blue Thunder, an archival three-part documentary from 2006
* The Special: Building Blue Thunder, an archival featurette from 2006 on the design and construction of the iconic helicopter
* Archival 1983 promotion featurette
* Extended scene
* Theatrical trailer
* Image gallery
* Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Chris Skinner
* Collectors’ booklet featuring new writing on the film by Dennis Capicik and original production notes
Arrow Video went back into the archives and put so much great archival material on this 4k.I would have liked to see some brand new on-disc bonuses as well, though. But there is new material. The collectors' booklet with a new essay about Blue Thunder from Dennis Capicik and then what can you say about the artwork except stellar.
Okay, so Blue Thunder is not the great Roy Scheider film, but it is still a watchable adventure. Especially if you love 80s cinema. And to be totally honest if you want to see this film, there is no better way to experience it than on this new 4K from Arrow Video.
So if you would like to add Blue Thunder on 4k to your home video library. Head over to MVD Shop or Amazon and order your copy of this film today.
Out of 4 film reels (4 being the best) the 4K of Blue Thunder receives....
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