Patriot Games – 4K UHD Blu-ray Movie Review

When CIA analyst Jack Ryan interferes with an IRA assassination and kills the brother of one of the terrorists, a renegade faction targets him and his family for revenge. This time, its personal.

Set just a few years after the Red October incident, we have Ford playing the part of Jack Ryan. He does well as a man thrust into the international spotlight which he clearly does not like. James Earl reprises his role from the first film, but everyone else is new. This movie works well as a spy thriller, though being chased by an angry terrorist is not as glamorous as watching submarines chasing each other. We get to see Ryan as a protective family man who will do whatever is necessary to protect his wife and daughter. An interesting and engrossing follow-up film in the series. The film is a bit dated with the IRA and political turmoil in Great Britain going on in the 80’s, but it stays clear from too much political leanings.

Though it was shot in 35mm and a few 70mm scenes, the UHD presentation offers a marginal uptick in resolution but cleaner contrast when compared to the HD version. Colors are more natural, too, but this film doesn’t make a night and day difference from the BD version unless you really want to own it in 4K. There are no plans to release individual films other than the box set, so if you want this in UHD you will have to purchase the whole 5 film set.

The sound is generally excellent with lots of surround activity during the chase scenes and the ocean storm boat chase at the end. No Dolby Atmos, but still a satisfying presentation all the same.

Besides the BD version, you also get Patriot Games up close and the Theatrical Trailer.