Alternate versions

For the 2018 restoration Ben Burtt created a new 5.1 surround sound mix with replacements for many of the film's original sound effects, with the jarring result that the sound effects have fidelity far above that of surrounding dialogue in the film. The 2020 Criterion Collection release features this new sound mix as well as the original mono track.

The 2020 Criterion Blu-Ray release has the wires used to hold up the Martian machines digitally painted out. They were clearly visible on all prior DVD releases.

The 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray contained an error where the color of mars appeared blue instead of red. It was revealed through Paramount's statement that the scene was taken from the original three-strip Technicolor negative and the studio chose not to employ additional color correction, but instead consulted original IB Technicolor prints and matched the look from there.