Best known for his work directing music videos for the likes of LL Cool J, The Notorious B.I.G. and Tupac Shakur among others, Hype Williams wanted to try something different. Released in 1998, Williams co-wrote and directed Belly, his only feature film to date. Unfortunately for him, the result is an uninteresting story that plays like a 95-minute, R-rated music video that allows several rappers to play gangsta. Williams’s ability to create eye catching videos with lots of saturated colors and quirky camera angles doesn’t translate to feature film.

Whatever plot there is, centers around drug dealers Tommy (DMX) and Sincere (Nas) realize they’re probably not long for this world. In the meantime, they’re going to make as much cash as possible. Having done everything they can in New York, they’re looking to expand their business by dealing a new form of heroin. While Tommy tries to make friends with a Jamaican drug lord, Sincere finds God or something, and wants to move his family to Africa. After a drug house run by Tommy is raided, he and sincere—now hunted by police and rival gang members—find themselves at a crossroads, forced to make a choice that will lead to redemption or ruin.

Williams tries to distract from the stilted acting and ridiculously awful dialogue with quick cuts and fish-eye lenses, but unless you’re into swearing every other word and dudes slapping around their hoes, Belly is borderline unwatchable. It might be worth a watch for fans of DMX and Nas, but this is far from either mans best work. While there’s no doubt Hype Williams knows how to shoot an engaging image (though Belly is very dark), he is not a storyteller. If the story of Belly were told as a four-minute music video, it would have been much more successful.

Presented in the 1.85:1 aspect ratio, Lionsgate’s 4K transfer is surprisingly good. The image is sharp, offering an impressive level of detail. Solid depth gives the choreography a realistic look. Colors are vivid, particularly the oft used blues. Blacks are deep and inky throughout. There is no crushing in evidence. Skin tones are natural and consistent throughout. The image is clean of any artifacts. For fans of Belly, this is a must-have transfer.

Belly features a Dolby Atmos track that takes full advantage of the multi-channel setup. Loud and well balanced, the soundtrack fills a room. The surrounds are fully realized. Gunshots pop, and other effects are crisp throughout. Despite the constant effects, dialogue remains clean, clear and concise throughout.

English, English SDH, and Spanish subtitles are available.

Aside from a digital copy code, all extras are available on the included Blu-ray:

  • Audio Commentary with Writer/Director Hype Williams
  • Spoken Word (HD, 39:07) A series of themes from the film are expanded upon.
  • Deleted Scene (HD, 3:33)
  • Grand Finale Music Video (HD, 4:05)