Leigh Whannell’s 2018 sci-fi action film, Upgrade, may not have received the level of recognition it truly deserves. While it is widely regarded as a breakout hit in the genre of sci-fi horror, it didn’t achieve the same commercial success as other films released that year or Whannell’s subsequent work, The Invisible Man, in 2020. However, despite being an underrated gem, Upgrade garnered critical acclaim, earning praise from both audiences and critics. Now, this cyberpunk action flick is about to be revitalized, as Shout! Factory exclusively unveils its special edition 4K UHD and Blu-ray release, complete with exciting bonus features.
As part of the release, the 4K UHD version includes an audio commentary with Leigh Whannell, the film’s writer and director. On the other hand, the Blu-ray edition treats fans to interviews with the talented creatives behind this critically acclaimed movie, including producer Kylie Du Fresne, cinematographer Stefan Duscio, editor Andy Canny, and fight choreographer Chris Weir. The physical copies of the film are currently available for purchase at $32.99.
Recognizing Upgrade’s Status as an Underrated Gem
Despite its modest budget, Upgrade triumphs due to Leigh Whannell’s creative vision, which more than compensates for any production limitations. Often likened to a modern counterpart of Sam Raimi, Whannell combines elements of body horror, thriller, action, and sci-fi, while also exploring the unforeseen dangers of technological advancements. Additionally, Logan Marshall-Green, a familiar face in the genre, delivers an outstanding performance that accentuates the complexity of his character.
RELATED:
Ranked: The Top 10 Sci-Fi Horror Movies of the 21st Century
Set in a futuristic world, Upgrade follows the journey of Grey Trace (played by Logan Marshall-Green), a man seeking vengeance after a brutal mugging leaves him paralyzed and claims the life of his wife, Asha (portrayed by Melanie Vallejo). Driven by a thirst for revenge and stripped of the ability to take matters into his own hands, Grey receives an offer from tech tycoon Eron Keen (played by Harrison Gilbertson) to implant an AI chip called STEM, which enables him to regain his mobility. Empowered with exceptional physical capabilities, Grey embarks on a mission to track down the killers. However, as the artificial system begins to take control on its own, Grey finds himself struggling to maintain his own agency and prevent the AI from turning him into the very villain he seeks to destroy.
You can now purchase the Blu-ray and 4K UHD versions of Upgrade via Shout! Scream Factory’s website. Be sure to check out the trailer and synopsis provided below.
“In a near-future world where technology dominates every aspect of life, Grey, a self-proclaimed technophobe, finds his world turned upside down. In his quest for revenge, his only hope lies in an experimental computer chip implant.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Sci-fi action film
When was the film “Upgrade” directed?
“Upgrade” was directed by Leigh Whannell in 2018.
Is “Upgrade” considered a breakout hit?
Yes, “Upgrade” is widely regarded as a breakout hit in the genre of sci-fi horror.
What special features are included in the 4K UHD and Blu-ray release of “Upgrade”?
The 4K UHD release includes an audio commentary with writer and director Leigh Whannell. The Blu-ray version features interviews with producer Kylie Du Fresne, cinematographer Stefan Duscio, editor Andy Canny, and fight choreographer Chris Weir.
How can I purchase the physical release of “Upgrade”?
You can purchase the 4K UHD and Blu-ray versions of “Upgrade” through Shout! Scream Factory’s website.
What is the price of the film’s physical release?
The physical release of “Upgrade” is available for purchase at $32.99.
More about Sci-fi action film
- Upgrade on IMDb
- Leigh Whannell on IMDb
- Shout! Factory website
- The Invisible Man on IMDb
- Logan Marshall-Green on IMDb
- Sam Raimi on IMDb
- Top 10 Sci-Fi Horror Movies of the 21st Century (Ranked)
5 comments
upgrade is such an awesome movie i cant believe it didnt get more reconition it deseves!! Leigh whannel is an amazing director and i love his other movie the invisible man too! defintly gonna buy the bluray and watch it again!
The concept of upgrade is so cool, i love how it explores the dangers of technlogy in a futuristic seting. And the 4k UHD relese means i can enjoy all the futuristic visuals in high resoluton. cant wait to see it!
Finally, upgrade is getting the recogniton it deserves with this new relese. the film is so underrated but critics and audiences love it. im really looking forward to hearing the audio commmentary and watching the interviews with the creatives.
upgrade is like a modern sam rami movie with all the horror elements mixed with action and scifi. defintly a must watch for fans of the genre. im so excited for the bluray relese so i can add it to my collection!
Upgrade is a hidden gem that not many peple knw about. it combines so many genres and logan marshall green gives a gr8 performance. cant wait to get my hands on the bluray and watch it with all the special featurs!