3D film

Summer intern Esther Montero takes a look at the latest 3D cinema releases and how the revelation of 3D is changing the world of cinema.

Even though 3D film has existed in some form since the 1950s, it had always been a novelty rather than a norm due to the costly processes required in production. Only recently have 3D films become more popular, giving audiences a new experience. 3D film came to a head last winter with the blockbuster release of Avatar – a huge success in many countries – boosting the public appetite. Since then a number of 3D flicks have been released and are in production. Pixar released Up last year and followed it this year with Toy Story 3, both of which have achieved huge success. DreamWorks is working on Kung Fu Panda 2 (to be released May 2011).

Avatar

Released in December, Avatar was the first mass scale 3D film of the new era. It changed the public perception of 3D and broke records with the incredible takings of $4.8 million just on the opening day in China.

I have seen Avatar in both 3D and in 2D and I definitely prefer the 3D version. The 3D experience is certainly more engaging and really makes you feel like you are one of the Avatars in Pandora!

Shrek 4

This DreamWorks film was released in July with a £43 million opening in the UK (£10 million more than its nearest competitor: Sex and the City 2). This is the latest (and final) instalment in the Shrek series, although it’s unfortunately not the most successful one.

Although the film received mixed reviews from critics, younger audiences found the 3D version exciting and funny. They loved seeing their favourite characters looking more alive than ever and even enjoyed wearing the 3D glasses!

Toy Story 3

Eleven years after the last instalment, the third film in the Toy Story trilogy has finally arrived. With a £21 million opening in the UK it became the second biggest British opening weekend ever.

Everyone I saw leaving the cinema either had a huge smile on their face or tears in their eyes. There is not enough praise for what Pixar have done for their medium in my opinion.
- Guardian Film Blog

I would definitely recommend Toy Story 3 3D for the lively characters and jokes!

 

The world of cinema is certainly changing, over the past twelve months we’ve seen a real increase in the number of 3D releases. It looks like 3D film is finally becoming a valid medium; audiences and studios are taking it seriously. We might see a day soon where the 3D film becomes the rule rather than the exception.

There are plenty lined up for release this year. The final Harry Potter films will be released as two 3D films, the first due in November. But if you can’t wait for then try Piranha for a dose of 3D thrills.