Preserve the original image
If an owned export unexpectedly loses shadow detail or looks lifted, range interpretation is one question to examine. It is not a diagnosis for every dark scene. The programme may intentionally contain deep blacks, and the viewing route can add its own processing.
Record the source's known range description and the export's description. Keep unknown values unknown. A control labelled full or limited in one stage is not evidence that every other stage uses the matching interpretation.
Use known production reference material where available, alongside a representative programme passage. A reference helps distinguish a deliberate dark grade from an unintended mapping. It still needs to be viewed through a controlled route.
Change the justified stage
Compare a small candidate with one documented interpretation or conversion change. Do not also lift shadows, change contrast and alter the monitor setup. If several stages change, an apparent improvement cannot explain which assumption was wrong.
Inspect both ends of the tonal range. A correction that reveals shadows but damages bright detail is not a complete solution. Preserve the original and write down what evidence supports the change, including any remaining uncertainty.
VideoColorSpace by Mozilla Contributors includes range among its colour-description properties and is available under CC-BY-SA 2.5 or later. This production review does not prescribe universal numeric code values or claim a particular device's behaviour. Accept the actual derivative in its intended route and retain the source for a better-informed later decision.
Questions answered
Does a dark-looking scene prove a range mismatch?
No. Compare known source information and controlled reference material.
Should I fix the master by increasing brightness first?
Preserve it and investigate interpretation before baking in a compensating creative change.
Sources & further reading
Official references for the subjects discussed. Service terms and device software can change.