I’ve just watched Criterion’s 4K Network disc, and I wanted so badly to trash it on the basis of an alleged teal-poisoning. I wanted to do a full Eyes Wide Shut-style meltdown and scream bloody murder, but I can’t do that. Because it’s not that bad in this regard.
90% of the Network scenes are office interiors, and there just isn’t a teal problem indoors. Outdoors you can spot extra tealing but it’s not hugely bothersome.
Yes, the Criterion is a tiny bit more teal-toned than the 2011 Bluray version, but not overwhelmingly so.
The truth is that the 2011 Bluray (which I re-watched this morning along with the 4K) is itself slightly teal-toned in terms of the outdoor street footage, so it’s not a big deal. Yes, the 4K is more color-saturated than the 2011 disc. That’s the only real difference between the two, really. The color on the 2011 disc is less luscious, but the details seem a tiny bit sharper than the Criterion…just a wee bit. My face was right up against the 65″ screen.
Honestly? I don’t think Criterion’s 4K Network disc is all that special or revelatory. It’s pleasant to look at, sure, but it certainly didn’t blow me away. Let’s let it go at that. If you want to spend $35 or $40 on a new Network disc that doesn’t represent a huge visual bump, be my guest.
