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Why do older movies sometimes look better on Blu-ray than on 4K TV, and is this a normal occurrence

It is not uncommon for older movies to look better on Blu-ray than on 4K TV. Several factors explain this.

Firstly, older movies were frequently shot on film, which can contain more detail than digital cameras used for newer movies. As a result, when these old movies are remastered for 4K, they can provide a more comprehensive and intricate image than newer movies shot digitally.

Secondly, Blu-ray discs have a higher bitrate than 4K streaming services, meaning they can store more data per frame, resulting in a clearer and more detailed picture. Even 1080p Blu-ray discs can look better than 4K streams because of this higher bitrate.

Ultimately, the quality of the restoration process also plays a big role in how good an old movie can look on 4K. Well-restored old movies can provide a more detailed and natural picture than newer ones, making them look better than they did on Blu-ray.

In summary, a combination of factors, including the original film format, higher bitrate, and restoration process, frequently results in older films looking better on Blu-ray than on 4K TV.

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