This piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the movie being covered here wouldn’t exist.

When it comes to love, poet Charlie MacKenzie (Mike Myers) has had his share of bad luck. But when he meets Harriet (Nancy Travis), he thinks he’s found “the one” – until a series of coincidences lead him to believe that Harriet might be the serial honeymoon killer “Mrs. X.” Charlie and his cop best friend (Anthony LaPaglia) must find out the truth before it’s too late in this madcap comic thriller.

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Video Quality

The new 30th Anniversary 4K UHD Blu-Ray of So I Married An Axe Murderer offers a substantial uptick in quality over the dated Blu-Ray released 15 years ago. Although, it should be noted that you will have to take our word for it if you do not already own it, as this new release only includes a 4K UHD disc. Owning both releases, we can confidently say the difference is night and day. The new disc comes in its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio in 2160p/Dolby Vision derived from a 4K scan of the Original Camera Negative. This presentation delivers the perfect amount of natural film grain which resolves famously and never fluctuates in any unnatural manner. Throughout the viewing experience you are treated to consistently sumptuous texture and detail within each environment which allows it to feel more three dimensional. You never dreamed of this film looking so amazing.

The Dolby Vision allows for very vibrant, nuanced colors throughout, especially when it comes to elements of the production design, the clothing and certain environments. Highlights are brilliant with greater stability as it avoids blooming. Black levels are very deep and allow the picture to maintain an excellent amount of depth and detail in shadows and darker environments. Skin tones look crisp and natural, and the clarity of the transfer gives you a great amount of distinct detail including some facial hair on some of the cast members. There is absolutely no speck of print damage or other such blemishes that would hinder the look of this title. This transfer is a knockout for fans of this classic comedy. Sony keeps justifying why they are one of our favorites in the catalog 4K UHD game.

Audio Quality

The 4K UHD Blu-Ray disc features a new Dolby Atmos track while also including the DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio track and the original DTS-HD 2.0 Master Audio stereo track for the purists. The audio and subtitle options Sony provides on this disc covers pretty much every basis with great care. The Atmos track delivers an immersive and expansive soundscape that really complements the film in welcome ways. This is far from an action-packed film, but the sound design is exciting in its own right for a comedy. Dialogue primarily stays anchored in the center channel, but activity extends into the surrounds, rears and overhead speakers when it comes to the music and certain special environmental elements. The sounds up above are not carrying the main load, but they add a sense of space and texture which only benefits the story. These channels really come alive during some of the weather effects.

The film impresses when it comes to the score and soundtrack, as these elements emanate with great fidelity. Dialogue is crisp and clear without ever getting muddled among the competing elements. The low end effects from the subwoofer are mostly utilized to provide a bit of extra texture to a few more active moments. Directionality is always pinpoint accurate when it comes to atmospheric effects. For those who choose to go with the original stereo track, you will be treated to an equally lovely presentation which captures the original artistic intent. There are no egregious flaws that would indicate this track has been anything less than properly preserved. Sony has knocked it out of the park.

Special Features

Deleted Scenes: There are 27 unused never-before-seen scenes totaling nearly 32 minutes provided here including an alternate opening, some more flirting at the butcher shop, additional moments with Rose and much more that is great to finally be able to see.

Trailers: This disc provides the Theatrical Trailer (2:15) and the International Trailer (2:07).

Final Thoughts

So I Married An Axe Murderer is not the Mike Myers comedy that comes to mind first for most people, but it is a great lower profile favorite which offers ample laughs from Myers operating in a more “everyman” mode. This film is jam-packed with quotable exchanges and even some heartfelt character moments. Some of the material is a bit dated, but by and large this is a very pleasant classic that you love to return to again and again. Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has released a 4K UHD Blu-Ray featuring a virtually perfect A/V presentation and some great new archival special features. Fans of the film will be excited to have this one treated so well. Highly Recommended

So I Married An Axe Murderer is currently available to purchase on 4K UHD Blu-Ray and Digital.

Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the 4K UHD Blu-Ray.

Disclaimer: Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.