In this riveting supernatural thriller, Harrison Ford and Michelle Pfeiffer play a married couple who uncover a terrible secret … a secret so disturbing it threatens to destroy them.

When Claire Spencer (Pfeiffer) begins seeing ghostly images and hearing mysterious voices in their home, her husband Norman (Ford) suspects it’s just her imagination — until the images turn horrifyingly real. Now, together they must uncover the truth, confront their worst fears, and find ‘what lies beneath … with twisting and terrifying results.

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Video Quality

Scream Factory presents What Lies Beneath with a fetching 2160p transfer in its original 2.39:1 aspect ratio sourced from a new 4K restoration of the Original Camera Negative with Dolby Vision/HDR approved by Cinematographer Don Burgess. The film was previously released on Blu-Ray a few years ago in 2021 by Paramount. This disc provided a dated transfer that struggled to provide crisp details and organic film grain. This new presentation is a remarkable improvement and the ideal way to watch this film at home. Even if you are not yet 4K UHD capable, this new release comes with a new Blu-Ray sourced from the same 4K restoration which likewise trounces the previous Blu-Ray.

The utilization of Dolby Vision/HDR for precise color output dials things into exceptional levels when it comes to depth and nuance. This is far from a colorful movie with its largely overcast setting, but the refinement in contrast is tremendous. Highlights are in good shape with no signs of blooming even in the brightest moments. Black levels are even better with nothing in the way of crush or banding present in the shadows. Audiences can observe more detail in the darkness with figures properly defined instead of blending into the murky background. There are no serious digital anomalies such as compression artifacts or any other such shortcomings. The practical special effects are praiseworthy while the digital effects are dated but still passable.

One of the biggest benefits of this restoration is the plethora of vital textures. Many of the older masters from this time were hampered by waxy appearances, but this transfer thankfully keeps things looking natural. The level of detail and clarity now on display is a pleasure to take in, thanks to the perfect amount of natural film grain intact. The grain resolves consistently well with nothing ever feeling clumpy or static in any environment. The texture on display in the costumes, vegetation, and production design is outstanding. Any previous notes of damage have been eradicated thanks to the restoration. Scream Factory has rescued another title from a problematic transfer.

Audio Quality

The 4K UHD Blu-Ray disc comes with a DTS-HD 5.1 and 2.0 Master Audio track which both capture the soundscape as intended. This narrative thrives when dabbling in unsettling and complex sound design, and this track executes that with an all-encompassing surround mix. Both tracks provide a respectful sonic journey that authentically captures the artistic intent with the utmost fidelity. Environmental sounds such as weather effects and gunfire are rendered effortlessly alongside everything else.

The Alan Silvestri score sounds rich and full of vigor as it is used perfectly to establish the eerie tone of the story. There is never a moment where it attempts to steal focus from the competing sounds, and it maintains a respectable balance so that dialogue comes through clearly. There do not seem to be any egregious instances of age-related wear and tear. This is another sturdy track from Scream Factory. Optional English SDH subtitles are provided for those who desire them.

Special Features

Audio Commentary: Director Robert Zemeckis and Producers Jack Rapke and Steve Starkey
You Know – Uncovering What Lies Beneath: A new incredible 83-minute retrospective documentary featuring interviews with Robert Zemeckis, Producers Steve Starkey and Jack Rapke, Writers Sarah Kernochan and Clark Gregg, Cast Member Amber Valletta, Director Of Photography Don Burgess, Production Designer Rick Carter, Costume Designer Susie DeSanto, Composer Alan Silvestri, Visual Effects Supervisor Robert Legato, Special Effects Supervisor Shane Mahan, and Puppeteer Jason Matthews. This is the type of supplement that you hope your favorite film receives.
Constructing A Thriller: A 15-minute vintage featurette that takes a look at the making of the film.
Theatrical Trailer (2:28)

Final Thoughts

What Lies Beneath is a prime example of the power that accompanies a certain level of acting pedigree. The narrative is creative enough with a healthy dose of twists and turns, but it likely would not stick with you for too long without the right performers to guide you over the finish line. Of course, an actor such as Harrison Ford grabs your attention, but Michelle Pfeiffer shows up and completely owns every scene she is in. The unsettling moments are complemented by the full commitment of the ensemble, not to mention the expert technical direction of Robert Zemeckis. There are a few elements that have not aged so gracefully, but this is a very effective thriller overall. Scream Factory has provided the film with a 4K UHD Blu-Ray release that boasts a top-tier A/V presentation and a sterling selection of new and archival special features. If you have a soft spot for this film, don’t miss the ultimate presentation. Recommended

What Lies Beneath (Collector’s Edition) will be available to purchase on 4K UHD + Blu-Ray Combo Pack on May 6, 2025.

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

Disclaimer: Scream Factory 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.