Let me start by saying this: Hugo in 4K is like rediscovering the film for the first time. The opening sequence alone—already breathtaking in standard 3D—becomes a jaw-dropping spectacle with HDR’s vibrant colors and deeper contrasts. Scorsese’s meticulous attention to detail shines through every frame, whether it’s the intricate clockwork or the dreamlike Parisian streets.

I tested all three versions included (2D, 3D, and 4K), and each has its charm. The 3D version remains a standout—not just for depth effects but for how Scorsese *composes* scenes spatially, like a painter layering canvases. But the 4K disc? That’s where Hugo truly sings. The HDR adds richness to the amber-lit interiors and makes the film’s homage to early cinema feel even more magical.

Watching this with family was a revelation. My kids were glued to the screen (rare for a ‘historical’ film!), while I appreciated Butterfield’s performance anew. The emotional beats hit harder in 4K—there’s a warmth to Georges Méliès’ flashbacks that standard Blu-ray just can’t replicate.

Minor gripes? The third act still drags slightly, but Arrow Video’s packaging (booklet + poster) and reference-quality audio make up for it. Avoid if you dislike whimsy—this isn’t *Goodfellas*. But if you want a film that celebrates wonder itself? Hugo in 4K is pure alchemy.