The 4K Ultra HD release of The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974)
is a top-tier restoration of a gritty 1970s crime classic. Available from specialized boutique labels, this release offers a significant visual upgrade over previous Blu-rays by utilizing a new scan of the original camera negative. Major Release Options Kino Lorber Studio Classics (US) Arrow Video Limited Edition (UK) Release Date December 20, 2022 June 9, 2025 HDR Format Dolby Vision, HDR10 Dolby Vision, HDR10 Disc Count 2 Discs (4K UHD + Blu-ray) 1 Disc (4K UHD) Audio DTS-HD MA 5.1 & 2.0 Mono DTS-HD MA 5.1 & LPCM Mono Exclusives New commentary by Steve Mitchell New "then and now" location featurette Technical Specifications & Performance The Taking of Pelham 123 (1974) 4K UHD Blu-ray Review
"The Taking of Pelham 123" is a 2009 thriller film directed by Tony Scott, starring Denzel Washington and Chiwetel Ejiofor. If you're looking for a piece related to the movie, here are some options:
As for the 4K version, "The Taking of Pelham 123" was released on 4K Ultra HD in 2020, offering a high-definition viewing experience with improved picture and sound quality.
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The 1974 classic thriller The Taking of Pelham One Two Three
has received highly acclaimed 4K UHD releases from two major boutique labels: Kino Lorber (North America) and Arrow Video
. Both editions are based on a new 4K scan of the original camera negative and feature HDR10 and Dolby Vision. Key Features of the 4K Releases Visual Presentation
: The 4K restoration significantly improves contrast, color, and detail compared to previous Blu-ray versions, while successfully retaining the film's intended 1970s gritty aesthetic. Audio Options Original Lossless Mono
: Highly recommended for authenticity, featuring a strong midrange that powers David Shire’s iconic jazz score. DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1
: A surround remix that offers more spatial activity, though some reviewers find it slightly less dynamic than the mono track. Included Formats Kino Lorber
: A two-disc set including the 4K UHD disc and a standard Blu-ray. Arrow Video
: A single-disc release containing the 4K UHD film and all special features. Special Features & Extras
Both releases are packed with supplemental material, much of it ported from earlier editions: Commentaries
: Audio commentary with film historians Steve Mitchell and Nathaniel Thompson. Interviews
: Archival interviews with star Hector Elizondo, composer David Shire, and editor Jerry Greenberg. New to Arrow Video
: The UK edition includes a unique featurette called "The Mapping of Pelham 123," which compares the original filming locations to their modern-day appearances, and a collector's booklet with new essays. Physical Bonuses
: Limited editions often include a slipcover with new artwork and a reversible sleeve. Where to Buy North America Kino Lorber 4K UHD Edition is widely available at retailers like UK / International Arrow Video Limited Edition can be found at
. Note that the 4K disc is region-free, making it a viable import option for worldwide collectors. technical comparison
between the Kino Lorber and Arrow transfers, or would you like to know more about the limited edition physical collectibles The Taking of Pelham 123 (1974) 4K UHD Blu-ray Review
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Tony Scott’s The Taking of Pelham 123 is not a perfect film. It is loud, sweaty, and politically incorrect. But it is a masterclass in tension and a love letter to the brutal kineticism of New York City. The film’s visual language—a blend of analog grain and hyper-digital violence—is exactly the kind of hybrid source material that shines when resolved in 4K with HDR.
While the official announcement for The Taking of Pelham 123 4K remains a rumor, the demand is there. Until Sony pulls the trigger, fans will continue to tweak their TV settings, hoping to pull detail out of those dark subway tunnels. When the 4K finally arrives, expect it to derail your reference disc shelf. Keep your radio silent, watch the clock, and wait for the signal.
Stay tuned for updates regarding "The Taking of Pelham 123 4K" release dates and pre-order links.
The 4K story of The Taking of Pelham One Two Three refers to the premium restoration of the 1974 heist classic
, now available in Ultra High Definition. The 4K release captures the "gritty, cynical essence" of 1970s New York City with unprecedented clarity. The Core Story Set in 1974, four armed men using the colour-coded aliases (Robert Shaw), hijack a New York City subway train. The Demand: They hold 18 passengers hostage, demanding a $1 million ransom to be delivered within one hour. The Stakes:
For every minute the deadline is missed, the hijackers threathen to execute one hostage. The Conflict: World-weary Transit Police Lieutenant Zachary Garber
(Walter Matthau) must engage in a high-stakes psychological game with the cold, calculating leader, Mr. Blue, to stall for time while the city's bureaucracy scrambles to meet the demands. Arrow Films The 4K Release Details The Taking of Pelham One Two Three Limited Edition 4K UHD
The 1974 thriller The Taking of Pelham One Two Three remains a masterclass in urban tension, serving as a gritty time capsule of 1970s New York City. While its 2009 remake leaned into high-octane spectacle, Joseph Sargent’s original film succeeds through a cynical, procedural realism that feels as cold and hard as the steel of the subway tracks it depicts. The Gritty Aesthetic of 1970s New York
At the heart of the film’s brilliance is its atmosphere. The NYC of Pelham 123 the taking of pelham 123 4k
is not the polished metropolis of modern cinema; it is a city on the brink of fiscal collapse, defined by grime, bureaucracy, and a pervasive sense of irritability. The 4K restoration highlights this beautifully, sharpening the grain of the 35mm film to emphasize the sweat on the actors' faces and the flickering fluorescent hum of the MTA command center. A Battle of Wits and Temperaments
The film’s engine is the verbal sparring between Lt. Zachary Garber (Walter Matthau) and the mercenary leader "Mr. Blue" (Robert Shaw). Matthau brings a weary, everyman charm to the role, embodying a city that has seen it all and is mostly just annoyed by the inconvenience of a hijacking. In contrast, Shaw is chillingly precise—a man of cold logic who views his hostages and his own team as mere chess pieces.
This dynamic elevates the movie from a standard heist flick to a psychological study. The tension isn't just about whether the money will be delivered, but whether the city’s inherent chaos will ultimately trip up Mr. Blue’s perfect plan. Technical Precision: Music and Editing
The film is famously propelled by David Shire’s brassy, dissonant jazz score. It captures the frantic, rhythmic energy of the subway system and the underlying anxiety of the era. Combined with tight, no-nonsense editing, the film maintains a relentless pace that never feels rushed, allowing the procedural details of the ransom delivery to feel genuinely suspenseful. The Legacy of the "Ordinary" Hero Perhaps the most refreshing aspect of Pelham 123
is its lack of traditional action-movie tropes. There are no superhuman feats; the "heroes" are transit cops, dispatchers, and a flu-ridden mayor. It celebrates the competence of the working class in the face of extraordinary crisis. In conclusion, The Taking of Pelham One Two Three
is more than a crime thriller; it is a quintessential "New York movie." It captures a specific moment in time when the city’s toughness was its primary survival mechanism, punctuated by one of the greatest, most understated final shots in cinematic history. comparative analysis with the 2009 remake, or perhaps a deeper dive into the technical specs of the 4K transfer?
The story behind The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974) is just as gritty and fascinating as the film itself. From real-life superstitions to a "hell on earth" production, here is the interesting history behind this 1970s masterpiece, now vividly restored in The Production: "Hell on Earth"
To capture the grimy essence of 1970s New York, director Joseph Sargent insisted on filming in actual subway tunnels. The Court Street Station
: Most of the subway scenes were filmed at the decommissioned Court Street Station in Brooklyn (now the New York Transit Museum Terrifying Conditions
: Crew members described the tunnels as "hell on earth" due to the intense heat, grime, and the proximity of the third rail. Although the rail wasn't live during filming, the cast remained on high alert while passing "A" and "E" trains rumbled on adjacent tracks. The Ping-Pong King
: During breaks, the crew set up card tables and ping-pong boards on the platform. Actor Robert Shaw
(Mr. Blue) was reportedly a formidable player, "badly beating all challengers" between takes. A Lasting Superstition
The film’s title comes from the train's radio call sign—a train that left Pelham Bay Park The Schedule Ban
: For decades after the film's release, the New York City Transit Authority strictly forbade any train from being scheduled to leave Pelham Bay Park at 1:23 a.m. or 1:23 p.m.. Ongoing Tradition
: While the official policy was eventually rescinded, many dispatchers still avoid scheduling trains at that exact time today out of lingering superstition. The 4K Restoration Experience Restored from the original camera negative
, the 4K release offers the most authentic way to see the film's "New York Noir" aesthetic.
The Taking of Pelham 123 (2009) - A Gripping Thriller Now in 4K
"The Taking of Pelham 123" is a tense, action-packed thriller directed by Tony Scott, released in 2009. The film is a remake of the 1974 film of the same name, directed by Joseph Sargent. The movie has now been upgraded to 4K, offering viewers an enhanced visual experience.
Plot
The story revolves around a group of armed men, led by the enigmatic and calculating Ryder (played by Idris Elba), who hijack the New York City subway system. They take a train, Pelham 123, hostage and demand a ransom in exchange for the safe release of the passengers.
The leader of the hijackers, Ryder, is a calm and collected individual who uses his intelligence and charisma to outmaneuver the authorities. He and his team have a clear plan, and they execute it with precision. As the situation unfolds, the authorities, led by Transit Police Lieutenant Tom Ryder (played by Denzel Washington), work tirelessly to negotiate with the hijackers and find a resolution.
Cast
4K Upgrade
The 4K upgrade of "The Taking of Pelham 123" offers a visually stunning experience. The film's cinematography, led by Sebastian Edschmid, provides a gritty and realistic portrayal of the city. The 4K resolution enhances the details, making the action sequences and tense moments even more immersive.
Technical Specifications (4K)
Critical Reception
"The Taking of Pelham 123" received generally positive reviews from critics. The film holds a 69% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with many praising the performances of the cast, particularly Idris Elba and Denzel Washington.
Conclusion
"The Taking of Pelham 123" is a gripping thriller that has been elevated by its 4K upgrade. The film's tense plot, combined with strong performances from the cast, makes it a must-watch for fans of the genre. With its enhanced visuals and immersive audio, this 4K version is the definitive way to experience the movie.
Where to Watch
"The Taking of Pelham 123" (2009) in 4K is available to stream or purchase on various platforms, including:
Rating
The 1974 classic The Taking of Pelham One Two Three remains a pinnacle of gritty, 1970s New York filmmaking, and its recent 4K restoration brings that "weary city on its knees" into sharper focus than ever. Whether you are looking at the North American release from Kino Lorber or the UK edition from Arrow Video
, this remaster captures a unique moment in cinema history where high-stakes tension met pitch-black humor. A Masterclass in Gritty Restoration
The 4K transfer, scanned from the original camera negative, preserves the film's "rough around the edges" aesthetic while providing a significant leap in clarity. The Look of 70s NYC : Cinematographer Owen Roizman, who also shot The Exorcist
, used a "flash process" to pull detail from low-light tunnel sequences. The 4K master highlights these finer nuances, from the thick weaves of 1970s clothing to the "infinite frown lines" on Walter Matthau's face. Color and Contrast
: While the palette is dominated by era-appropriate browns and dark reds, Dolby Vision HDR
allows specific pops of color—like Matthau's "impossibly yellow" tie—to stand out naturally rather than appearing neon as they did on previous Blu-rays. Shadow Detail
: The restoration provides "rich and inky" black levels that maintain detail in the claustrophobic subway tunnels without losing the image to "crush". The Sound of the Underground
The audio presentation highlights one of the most celebrated thriller scores of all time. The Taking of Pelham One Two Three - Arrow - Blueprint
Hijacking Your Home Theater: The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974) Pulls into the 4K Station
If you’re a fan of gritty, sweat-stained 1970s thrillers, clear some space on your shelf. The 1974 masterpiece The Taking of Pelham One Two Three has finally arrived on 4K Ultra HD, and it is the definitive way to experience one of the greatest heist movies ever made. A Masterclass in Relentless Suspense
Forget the "whiz-bang" flash of modern remakes. The original film stars Walter Matthau as Lieutenant Zachary Garber, a world-weary transit cop who must outmaneuver the cold, calculating "Mr. Blue," played by Robert Shaw. The plot is lean: four armed men hijack a New York City subway train, demanding $1 million in one hour or they start executing hostages. Why the 4K Upgrade is Essential
This isn't just a simple upscale. Both the Kino Lorber Studio Classics (US) and Arrow Video (UK) releases offer significant technical upgrades:
Pristine Restoration: Sourced from a new 4K scan of the original camera negative, the transfer preserves the film’s organic 35mm grain while revealing textures you’ve never seen before—from the fabric of the characters' tweed jackets to the sweat on their foreheads.
Dolby Vision & HDR10: The high dynamic range is the real game-changer. It makes the grimy, sepia-toned subway tunnels feel deeper and more immersive, while pops of color—like Matthau’s iconic yellow tie—practically jump off the screen.
Audio Authenticity: You can choose between the original lossless 2.0 Mono track or a new 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio remix. Both tracks give David Shire’s bombastic, jazz-infused score the power and presence it deserves. A Treasure Trove of Extras
For physical media collectors, the bonus features are worth the ransom price alone. The Taking of Pelham 123 (1974) 4K UHD Blu-ray Review
As of today, major streaming platforms (Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Vudu) offer The Taking of Pelham 123 only in 4K SDR (Standard Dynamic Range) via upscaled HD transfers. This is not true 4K. These streams lack HDR and the high bitrate of a physical disc.
If you search for "The Taking of Pelham 123 4K" on Kaleidescape, you will find a higher-bitrate 4K stream, but it is still derived from a 2K digital intermediate. For the true native experience—the gritty film grain, the nuanced shadows of the tunnel, the tactical audio—we are waiting on Sony Home Entertainment to press the discs.
The Ultimate Ride: Analyzing "The Taking of Pelham One Two Three" in 4K
Joseph Sargent’s 1974 classic, The Taking of Pelham One Two Three, has long been celebrated as a quintessential New York thriller. Recently, it has received a definitive physical media upgrade, with releases from Kino Lorber Studio Classics in the U.S. (December 2022) and Arrow Video in the UK (June 2025). Both editions utilize a new 4K restoration from the original camera negative, offering a gritty, high-definition look at the 1970s subway system. Visual Restoration: Gritty but Gorgeous
The 4K transfer, featuring Dolby Vision and HDR10, is a significant leap over previous Blu-ray versions. While the film maintains its naturally soft, grain-heavy 70s aesthetic, the restoration provides several key improvements:
Color Depth: HDR brings out the rich, earthy tones of the 1970s, making Walter Matthau’s iconic yellow tie pop against the grimy subway backdrop.
Shadow Detail: Improved contrast helps resolve detail in dark tunnel sequences, which previously suffered from "crush" or muddy blacks.
Clarity: Fine textures in clothing (lots of tweed) and facial features are far more resolved. Audio: Immersive and Authentic Viewers can choose between two primary audio experiences: The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974) 4K Blu-ray Review
Joseph Sargent's 1974 masterpiece, The Taking of Pelham One Two Three, has finally arrived at its destination in stunning 4K Ultra High Definition. A seminal New York crime thriller, the film’s transition to 4K provides the definitive way to experience its gritty, high-stakes heist and world-weary humor. The 4K Restoration: A Gritty Masterclass
The recent 4K UHD releases—led by Kino Lorber Studio Classics in North America and Arrow Video in the UK—feature a meticulous scan from the original camera negative.
Visual Precision: The 4K resolution (2.35:1 aspect ratio) reveals a level of detail previously obscured, from the grime and graffiti of the 1970s NYC subways to the subtle textures of Walter Matthau's suits.
HDR & Dolby Vision: Both releases utilize HDR10 and Dolby Vision to enhance the film's dark, claustrophobic palette. Expect deeper blacks in the subway tunnels, truer skin tones, and a vibrant "pop" from iconic elements like Matthau’s impossibly yellow tie. The 4K Ultra HD release of The Taking
Authentic Grain: The transfer maintains the film’s original cinematic grain, avoiding the "waxy" look of digital noise reduction (DNR) to preserve Owen Roizman’s realistic cinematography. Audio Specs and David Shire’s Score
The 4K edition offers multiple ways to hear the "bombastically cool" jazz-funk score by David Shire.
Original Audio: A lossless DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 (Mono) track provides the most authentic experience of the 1974 theatrical release.
Surround Remix: A new DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track opens up the soundstage, adding immersion to the echoing tunnels and the chaotic transit authority control center. Special Features and Bonus Content
These releases are packed with supplements for film historians and casual fans alike: The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (4KUHD) - Amazon.com
The Taking of Pelham 123: A Gripping Thriller Revisited in 4K
The 2009 film "The Taking of Pelham 123" is a tense, gripping thriller that pits a group of desperate and well-armed commuters against a cunning and ruthless leader, played by Denzel Washington. The movie, directed by Tony Scott, is a remake of the 1974 film of the same name, and it brings a fresh, modern spin to the classic tale of a hijacking on a New York City subway train.
The Plot
The movie takes place on a typical Monday morning in New York City, as a packed subway train, Pelham 123, departs from the 34th Street station. Among the commuters are a young mother, a businessman, and a few workers heading to their jobs in the city. But their ordinary day takes a dramatic turn when the train is hijacked by a group of heavily armed men, led by the charismatic and calculating leader, T.W. Ranger (Denzel Washington).
Ranger, a former commuter himself, has a simple yet bold demand: $10 million in cash, which he wants to be delivered to him within a few hours. If his demands are not met, he threatens to kill one hostage every 10 minutes. As the standoff unfolds, the authorities, led by the NYPD and a determined transit cop, Lt. Denny (John Travolta), work tirelessly to negotiate with Ranger and his crew.
The Cast
The cast of "The Taking of Pelham 123" is impressive, with standout performances from Denzel Washington and John Travolta. Washington brings his signature gravitas and charm to the role of Ranger, making him both a compelling and intimidating figure. Travolta, as the seasoned Lt. Denny, provides a solid counterbalance to Washington's performance, bringing a sense of urgency and empathy to the negotiations.
The supporting cast, including Ethan Hawke, Wesley Snipes, and Chris Meloni, add to the tension and drama of the film, bringing their own brand of intensity and unpredictability to their roles.
Visuals and Sound Design
The film's visuals are stunning, with a blend of practical and CGI effects that create a believable and intense atmosphere. The cinematography by Mauro Fiore captures the claustrophobic feel of the subway train, making the viewer feel like they are trapped alongside the hostages.
The sound design is equally impressive, with a pulsating score by Harry Gregson-Williams and a jarring use of sound effects that heighten the tension and anxiety of the situation. The 4K Ultra HD release of the film brings a new level of visual fidelity to the movie, with crisp and detailed images that immerse the viewer in the action.
Themes and Social Commentary
Beneath its surface-level thrills, "The Taking of Pelham 123" explores several thought-provoking themes and social commentary. The film touches on issues of class, economic disparity, and the effects of globalization on American society.
Ranger's character, in particular, serves as a symbol of the disillusioned and disaffected individual, who feels disenfranchised by the system and seeks to take matters into his own hands. The film also highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in dealing with complex, high-stakes situations like the hijacking.
The 4K Ultra HD Release
The 4K Ultra HD release of "The Taking of Pelham 123" is a significant upgrade from the original Blu-ray release. The film's new transfer, supervised by director Tony Scott, brings a level of detail and color accuracy that was not possible with the previous release.
The 4K release also includes a range of special features, including behind-the-scenes footage, interviews with the cast and crew, and a detailed making-of featurette. These extras provide a fascinating glimpse into the film's production and highlight the craftsmanship and dedication that went into creating the movie.
Conclusion
"The Taking of Pelham 123" is a gripping, intense thriller that benefits from a strong cast, impressive visuals, and thought-provoking themes. The 4K Ultra HD release is a must-have for fans of the film, offering a significantly upgraded viewing experience that brings new levels of detail and immersion to the movie.
If you're a fan of tense, well-crafted thrillers, or if you're simply looking for a compelling movie experience, "The Taking of Pelham 123" in 4K is an excellent choice. With its gripping plot, strong performances, and impressive visuals, it's a film that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
The 1974 classic The Taking of Pelham 123 has finally received the definitive treatment it deserves with a stunning 4K Ultra HD release. This gritty, high-stakes heist thriller—often cited as the blueprint for modern hostage movies—now shines in a new light, preserving its 1970s New York authenticity while elevating its technical presentation to modern standards. A New Standard in Restoration
The 4K UHD presentation is sourced from a brand-new 4K scan of the original camera negative, providing a massive leap in quality over previous home video versions.
Visual Fidelity: The 2160p transfer brings out incredible detail, from the infinite frown lines on Walter Matthau’s face to the intricate textures of clothing and the grime of the New York City subway.
HDR and Dolby Vision: The inclusion of both Dolby Vision and HDR10 is the real game-changer. It significantly enhances color depth, offering richer primary colors (like Lt. Garber’s iconic yellow tie) and deeper, more natural black levels that reveal hidden details in the dark subway tunnels.
Film Grain: The restoration maintains a healthy, cinematic layer of film grain, avoiding the "waxy" look caused by excessive digital noise reduction (DNR). Key Technical Specifications The Taking of Pelham One Two Three | HMV Store Movie Review : The film received generally positive