NEWS OF THE WORLD 4K UHD review: Tom Hanks leads a visually-stunning homage to classic Westerns

Hanks plays Captain Jefferson Kyle Kidd, a grizzled former Confederate Army soldier who travels from town to town reading newspapers and recounting stories from across the U.S. to small groups of rambunctious crowds for a dime apiece. As much a showman as he is a news source for people striving to hear what’s happening outside of their small towns, Kidd’s life is a solitary existence, with his estranged wife living halfway across the country.

While passing through Texas, Kidd stumbles on an overturned wagon and discovers a 10-year-old white girl named Johanna (Helena Zengel – Systems Crasher) dressed in Native American clothing. After trying to leave her with unwilling authorities, Kidd reluctantly agrees to transport Johanna to her surviving family on the other side of the country. Thus begins a harrowing cross-country ride as the duo face off with the likes of violent ex-Confederate soldiers and the punishing (yet beautiful) wilderness on their way to reunite Johanna with her extended family.

Taken in and raised by the Kiowa people after her immediate family was killed, Johanna speaks no English and has taken on the traditions and language of the Kiowa, putting herself and Kidd at great risk as they navigate through towns full of brutal ex-soldiers who still regard all Natives as the enemy.

The story may follow a number of traditional Western beats, but the strong performances, stunning cinematography, and visually exciting shooting style elevate News of the World into something truly special.

Filled with Greengrass’ trademark hand-held camera work, News of the World looks absolutely incredible on this new 4K UHD disc, offering astounding clarity and detail that highlights the film’s striking natural landscapes. The Dolby Atmos soundtrack is also superb, offering up a wide sound stage that brings James Newton Howard’s evocative score to life while offering room-shaking moments like a swirling dust storm that is guaranteed to give your sub a true workout.

Initially released into theaters on Christmas Day in the midst of the pandemic, News of the World doesn’t seem to have caught on the way a Tom Hanks Western should, which is a shame. While the story of a man fighting mistruths by spreading facts across a divided country is exceedingly relevant today, at its heart News of the World is a tribute to classic Westerns like True Grit and the films of John Ford, but with the welcome adage of also portraying Native American characters and traditions with respect.

News of the World may have initially fallen under the radar for many, but this reference-worthy UHD disc is the perfect opportunity to check out this heartfelt nod to the Western classics of yesteryear. It’s the least we can do for “America’s Dad.”

News of the World is available now on 4K UHD, Blu-ray, and via digital services. 

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