Disney Announces Yet Another 3D Movie AND Some Surprises...

Jim here. Had a great preview of Disney 3D movies today at Showest! Some of the things on their plate coming up are very exciting - including the following:

1. TOY STORY 1 AND 2 will be run as a double 3D feature in October for a limited 2 week run (a Disney signature marketing tool it seems). Toy Story 3 is still on track for June 18, 2010 with Andy going off to college.
2. CARS 2 is taking shape as the familiar group of characters leave Route 66 and speed off on aorund the world adventures. Disney showed us a John Lassiter directed 3D short movie from their CARS TOON series entitled TOKYO MATER. Our friendly neighborhood tow truck travels to Japan, gets challenged to a race, modded and... well I hate ruining endings so I won't go there.
3. We were shown a 2D production reel for A CHRISTMAS CAROL and the imagery looked awesome to say the least. Zemeckis looks like he has this one nailed from a visual aspect at least.
4. Saw some visuals for Tim Burton's ALICE IN WONDERLAND which looked suitable wonderful. Confirmed that once Alice drops into the rabbit hole the movie turns to 3D. There are trees sculptured as giraffes, giant mushrooms and faces in roses! Also they announced that AIW will indeed be shown in IMAX 3D as well.
5. Saw 3D previews for G-FORCE and TR2N. They looked VERY good - especially TR2N. Believe this footage has already been seen though.
6. Got to see 47 minutes of Pixar's UP. and WOW. Gorgeous. Also they revealed to us about 4 -5 minutes of footage from the end of the movie - where there is a lot more action. STUNNING is not a strong enough word. Another Oscar for Pixar's mantle? Looks like it.
7. Saw footage from the opening song of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST in 3D and as always when I see that opening - it is uplifting. The 3D delivers a fresh and powerful backdrop to the music and truly inspires. A must see in 3D.

AND the new movie is something called MARS NEEDS MOMS in 2011/2012. No idea what the storyline is about as of yet. Stay tuned!

Thats the updates from this morning! Heading into a CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF MEATBALLS presentation right now!! :-) I know, I know. Someone has to do it!

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Independent 3D Filmmakers Rejoice: Low Cost 3D Camera RIGS Now Available

Jim here. We have talked a lot about the RED and SI digital cameras in stereo 3D configuration and with good reason - great performance and great value. But with these cameras and others, many independent filmmakers have taken to creating their own 3D rigs to house these cameras for shooting side by side. The frustrations must be endless.

Seems we have a potential solution for you as of TODAY from 3D Film Factory (although the RED One for example would require a custom rig built. The suggested cameras are as follows: Canon - XH-G1(S), XH-A1, XL-H1, XL2; Sony - HDR-FX1, HDR-Z1U, HVR-Z7U, PMW-EX3, PMW-EX1; Panasonic - DVX100, DVX100A, DVX100, DVX200, DVX200A; and JVC - HD250U, HM700U. Here are snippets from their press release:

3D Film Factory has developed a line of production-ready, cost-effective, 3D camera systems designed to shoot superior 3D. Developed over the course of several years, with the guidance of veteran stereographers and award-winning filmmakers, these durable, dual camera rigs provide an alternative to the high-priced 3D systems costing ten times as much.

The company has released for sale three select systems; the 3D-SB (split-beam), 3D-SS Indie (side-by-side), and the 3D-SS Pro (side-by-side) models. Each system is designed for a specific production purpose and to accommodate various prosumer and professional grade SD and HD cameras.

3DFF president Karl Kozak said "...we’re filling a niche, offering great rigs, that shoot incredible 3D, for a fraction of the cost.”

The 3D-SB (split-beam) system is constructed using black anodized aluminum that’s virtually indestructible and light-absorbing, removable plastic. With a total weight of only 22 lbs., the rig is easy-to-use, allowing for quick set-ups and precise 3D alignment. It’s being introduced for a complete price of $1,995.

Split-beam rigs are mandatory for the smaller (6” to 0”) inter-axial (camera-to-camera) distances needed for medium and close-up shots. Such inter-axial distances can only be achieved with adjustable camera positions and the use of scientifically engineered glass. During shooting, the image for the horizontal camera passes directly through the glass, while the vertical camera’s image is reflected off the front of glass. In effect, the two cameras are stacked sharing almost the exact same field of vision.

“Side-by-side camera configurations can’t be used for close-up shots for good reason, it hurts the eyes,” said Kozak. “You have to get the cameras closer than camera bodies and hoods will allow for. That’s why you need a split-beam rig.”

The company’s two side-by-side 3D rigs are less complex, but equally necessary in most 3D production situations. Side-by-side systems are specifically designed for filming master to panoramic shots in 3D. In this case, the simple side-by-side camera posture allows for fast, accurate 3D alignment and unobstructed shooting.

Both 3D-SS systems weigh less than 4 lbs., are priced at about $300, and boast inter-axial (camera to camera) distances from about 6” to 24”. All of the company’s rigs are constructed using a virtually indestructible aluminum frame.

All three camera systems are available @ www.3DfilmFactory.com

About 3D Film Factory
The 3D Film Factory is a San Diego-based company specializing in the production of original 3D entertainment and high-quality 2D-to-3D conversion.
This is the innovation I love to hear about as companies are starting to see the gaps of need in the 3D industry and endeavoring to fill them. Would like to see an off the shelf version of these for the RED Ones though guys!

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Exclusive: Fox Co-Chairman Jim Gianopulos talks Avatar! (ShoWest 2009)

Hi everyone, Michael here.  I caught up with Fox Filmed Entertainment Co-Chairman Jim Gianopulos after his keynote speech here at ShoWest.  We talked about Avatar - including its current status, the forthcoming poster and trailer, fan hype, 3D, and how Avatar will transport audiences to an incredible new world through classic storytelling.

Thanks very much to Mr. Gianopulos for his time!

Michael: We've been following Avatar very closely.  What can you tell us about it?

Gianopulos: I've seen the film-most of the film-and I think Jim's comment that it's like dreaming only you're awake...is enough. (laughs)-Is accurate.  I think it's a truly amazing film in the sense that he's created visual images, and a story, and a world, and creatures and experiences that I've just never seen in a cinema.  It's just truly amazing.  So, with the partnership of WETA and James Cameron, and a story that's been in his mind and developing all these years, combined with the technology to do it catching up, is just a trifecta beyond anything.

Michael: It's going to be mind boggling.  The hype-just judging by the fan base-the hype for this is unlike anything we've seen since maybe Star Wars: Episode I.

Gianopulos: Well, I don't think it's comparable to anything....

Michael: ...Maybe even higher.

Gianopulos: The other thing I would say is, you know, no one ever wants to see the hype of a movie built up and expectations that get out of control, but, you know, this movie delivers on a level unlike anything I've ever seen.  So I'd like to try to keep people's enthusiasm within rational levels, but I'm telling you I think this thing will surpass anyone's rational expectations.

Michael: When do you think we might possibly see the first poster, image, or footage?

Gianopulos: Oh, the poster will be out soon.  The reality, I think, for people, and especially people who understand the technology...you know, the film...Jim is essentially finished all of his shooting of the film, and it has been rendered, in working with WETA.  So now the film is at WETA being rendered in its photoreal images.

Michael: A huge final pass, rendering all the final images?

Gianopulos: It's much more than a pass.  It's taking it from its production images, to its photorealistic final images which Jim will continue to supervise in great detail as he does everything.  But it's unfair for him as a filmmaker to spend years doing this...  

Michael: ...To put something out that's not 100% done...

Gianopulos:  Yeah, it's not fair--it's not the final version.  There are great portions of the film finished in final form, but they are not of complete scenes.  So when we have a complete scene, when we have enough, it will come out and I think it will meet those expectations.

Michael: Another quick question - I know that Cameron had said, a while ago at least, that Fox wanted Avatar to be shown only on 3D screens.  Is that still a possibility?

Gianopulos: I don't think that's possible, because I think that would deny the movie to too many people in too many places in the world.  But most importantly, while the movie is amazing in 3D, it's such a brilliant film, it would be brilliant in any form.  It's like saying, did Titanic have to be in 3D?  Did Aliens have to be in 3D? They were truly great films.

Michael: Everything he has said - that he is focused on the storytelling, that he's not forgotten the lessons he learned on Titanic...

Gianopulos: ...Yeah, and another point that Jim's made repeatedly is that the old form of 3D was a gimmick that was intended to extend the life of a tired franchise.  So you have the monster, the monster returns, and the monster returns in 3D.  That was the 50's and the 60's and times past.  This is the greatest filmmakers in the world using this film medium to express themselves on the biggest pallet and in the biggest scale of any movie made, and it's an entirely different experience.  But - doesn't mean it's not a great movie in 1D if you have to show it that way!

Michael: (laughs) That's great.  Nice to meet you, and thanks so much for everything!

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Showest 2009: IMAX Presentation of Upcoming Films!

Michael here.  IMAX showed a cool video highlighting its future movie lineup (both IMAX 3D and regular IMAX) which included clips, logos, and posters from upcoming IMAX films and clips of filmmakers such as James Cameron, Michael Bay, and J.J. Abrams.

By the way, the Avatar logo shown is an old fanart - nothing official here, unfortunately. It's funny that IMAX used it in their presentation, however - kudos to the artist for that!

Check it out below:

I'm hyped to see all of these IMAX films - Monsters Vs. Aliens and Beowulf in IMAX 3D were the most impressive 3D experiences I've had to date.  It's clear that cinema is evolving, and that 3D and IMAX are leading the charge.  Bring on the future!

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Quick Post: HUGE Sony deal with AMC For Digital 4K Projectors

Jim here. Just got wind of a mega deal for Sony to help them pull even with Texas Instruments in Digital 4K projector deployments.

It is a $315 million deal. TI has 5,476 deployments but this deal will bring Sony up to ~5,000 4K projectors in North America.

The Sony projectors will be installed starting in the second quarter of this year and will finish up in 2012.

AND... an exciting quote from Frank Rash a SVP with AMC: “Digital cinema gives us a huge opportunity to do 3-D, live broadcasts and playback of live events."

YES! I am really stoked about live 3D events too. A great deal for both parties.

AND more from Showest coming up! Stay tuned...

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Posters from Showest 2009!

Hi, Michael here. I just got into Vegas, and took a stroll down the Strip to the Paris Hotel, where most of the main events of ShoWest will be taking place. Although the show doesn't start until tomorrow, I got some pics of some posters for upcoming 3D movies (no Avatar poster unfortunately - at least not yet), along with the new Sherlock Holmes poster, a cool Star Trek standee, and some promos for 3D tech.  Check 'em out below, and stay tuned to MarketSaw all week for our continuing coverage of ShoWest 2009!

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SOLID Opening for "Monsters vs. Aliens"!

Jim here. Hey MONSTERS VS. ALIENS had a wicked opening night Friday with estimates from BoxOfficeMojo claiming $16,700,000. Not too bad - actuals could be higher as the 3D premium is hard to nail at times with estimates.

I am still sticking with my $66m weekend but hey, so what if I am aiming high? This is a damn good movie so get out and witness history.

I saw it Friday night (Michael got the crew's premiere!) and I was floored. The visuals were technically a work of art. Phil McNally and his team have really set the bar high for future animations - including Pixar's UP.

Throughout the whole movie there were only 2 sight gags and they were tastfully done. One was used, I am sure, to just MAKE SURE you knew this was a 3D movie and it had the required result. I flinched. YES. They caught me. I won't say where it is, but after you see it you will know.

Anyway, the remainder of the movie was stunning and solid. 3D was used tastfully and effectively. Sure the story could use some work but it is clearly aimed at families with young kids so leeway is surely given.

My rating for MvsA? 3.5 / 5. Almost a four, but I don't use 3.75 / 5. Or did I? What the hey, 3.75 / 5. Bottomline? See this movie.

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Philips Backs Out Of "No Glasses Based 3D TVs" - Cites Market Conditions

Jim here. According to Chris Chinnock of Display Daily (Insight Media), Philips CEO Jos Swillens has announced internally that they will cease the operations of their 3D Solutions.

Swillens wrote: "Because of current market developments, the point in time where mass adoption of no-glasses based 3D TV will occur has shifted significantly. Therefore, Philips has decided to stop the 3D Solutions venture. Philips has been marketing its leading no-glasses based 3D technologies through a pro-active approach for a long time, because it believes that over time, no-glasses based 3D TVs will bring the ultimate 3D experience to the home. Unfortunately, the current market developments no longer justify such a pro-active approach. As a consequence of this, Philips has decided to scale down its investments in this area. In practice, this means that the 3D Solutions venture will be discontinued."

From Display Daily: "In a follow up discussion with Bjorn Teuwsen, Manager Marketing & Communications, he explained that the recession and the impact on the LCD industry had changed the math in their risk-reward calculation. In essence, Philips needed the LCD industry to make investments in new switchable 2D/3D technology and to aggressively cost reduce Quad HD panels. Philips believed both were needed to establish cost effective autostereoscopic 3D TVs. But the LCD makers are delaying these investments and the ripple effect impacted Philips by stretching out the time when these TVs would become available. The consequence was that Philips would need more time and investment in 3D. While it also has a viable B2B 3D display business, it was judged that the revenue from this component, plus the additional investment and longer time scale to a consumer AS-3D TV, ultimately did outweigh the potential long-term income from 3D TVs. The business equation became too risky, which is why the operation was shut down."

"Philips was clearly the market leader and evangelist for autostereoscopic (no-glasses) 3D displays. It was selling its 42" lenticular-based 3D display (42-3D6W02) along with its 3×3 array of these displays called the WOWvx, and it has a number of sites using its Blue Box and Red Box processors. Prototypes of 50-inch and 8-inch no-glasses 3D displays were close to introduction too. At last year's 3D BizEx event, it showcased the future of AS-3D display by demonstrating a 56-inch AS-3D display with a native resolution of 4096×2160, creating one of the best no-glasses 3D images to date."

What does this mean for the future of 3D with Philips home electronics? Well this particular 3D Solutions team was NOT part of the Philips Consumer Lifestyle group (responsible for TVs), and Teuwsen stated that there is a strong push for 3DTV right now. It is just that autostereoscopic TVs (ASTVs - no glasses) will be further delayed.

And to underscore that, this means Philips is out of the No-3D Glasses TV Race. I am not going to say this doesn't hurt - it does. But ASTVs will still have a future - just a little more drawn out now. The 3DTVs that depend on 3D glasses are still very much alive and growing rapidly.

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Quick Post: AMC and RealD Announce 3D Partnership

Nearly 8,000 Total RealD 3D Screens Committed by Theatres Worldwide

Kansas City, Mo. and Los Angeles (March 26, 2009) – AMC Entertainment Inc. (AMC), a leading theatrical exhibition and entertainment company, and RealD, the world’s leading outfitter of 3D-enabled theatres, announced today that AMC will add up to 1,500 RealD 3D screens to its circuit in the United States and Canada. The rollout of RealD 3D-enabled screens has already begun with new screens added monthly at AMC locations. This agreement brings RealD’s 3D network to nearly 8,000 total committed screens worldwide with approximately 2,600 RealD 3D screens installed today.

“AMC has a world-class reputation for guest satisfaction, and we look forward to bringing RealD’s exceptional 3D experience to all of our theatres, as our intent is to feature at least one screen in every AMC theatre” said Gerry Lopez, chief executive officer and president of AMC Entertainment Inc. “This partnership with RealD will give our guests an enhanced way to experience movies perfectly timed for the full line-up of 3D films coming from some of the biggest names in Hollywood.”

“AMC is a global leader in entertainment and we’re proud to work with them to enable this huge number of screens across their circuit with RealD 3D technology,” said Michael V. Lewis, chairman and CEO of RealD. “Audiences are seeking a new and truly engaging form of entertainment that AMC and RealD together can provide through this extensive commitment to build out one of the largest RealD 3D circuits in the world.”

RealD’s next-generation digital 3D is ultra-realistic, bearing no resemblance to the anaglyph red-and-blue glasses based 3D of old. A bright spot for the entertainment industry, RealD 3D is driving box office to the tune of three to four times per screen revenue of the same film on 2D screens.

Keep 'em coming fellas! :-)

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A Story Of An Independent 3D Filmmaker: Vic Love

Jim here. We have heard plenty of stories on the well funded and equipped 3D directors and producers out there - how about something on a small independent filmmaker making a go of it?

Vic Love is pioneering live-action documentary 3D filmmaker in places like Hawaii and Jamaica on a non-budget. I spoke with Vic on many occasions and recently he opened up about his passion; 3D.

Says Love: "There are stories out there that need to be told, stories that are going away, there are living histories that need to be recorded, and I will do them in 3-D, as this is something that I can do, and we will only get better by doing. In the field this type of film-making is an order of magnitude harder than conventional run and gun, but technology will improve. I now have an incredible gratitude to our brain being able to sync the color, focus, and iris in two eyes perfectly, but then again we've had a million years of evolution, digital 3-D has only been around for a couple of years."

He was one of the first stereographers in the world to shoot 3D footage from an ultralite. Looks like fun to me!

I love the photo of Vic overlooking a village in Jamaica (bottom - Vic is on right) with an SRW-1, 2 CCU's, a switcher, 4 Hytron 140's, and a scope strapped on his back at dawn in the rain. He had climbed up this steep mountain that their camera van could not get up to get a sunrise shot of the Bob Marley estate overlooking 9 Mile.

Vic was in Jamaica filming a documentary on the history of reggae music (which I love). He is based out of Los Angeles but obviously travel is not an issue with him.

Digital Content Producer has done a great interview with him found here back in February. He also runs a cross-eyed view 3-D stills website of his work at MY3DCAM.com.

From the DCP article: "In Jamaica, he'd (Vic) be composing shots, maneuvering the two-camera rig, and manipulating the interocular distance between the two cameras — all more or less on the fly. The latter task requires the stereographer to adjust the distance between the two cameras using the electronics of the rig, thereby emulating the separation of our eyes. Typically about 2.5in., that space between our eyes is what gives depth to our visual perception; a similar distance between stereo cameras creates the illusion of depth when we don 3D glasses.

According to Love, manipulating interocular distance is akin to pulling focus — instead, you're pulling stereo. “You know how to ride it,” he says. Even most smaller HD cameras — the Sony PMW-EX3, for instance — are too bulky to achieve that 2.5in. interocular distance between the centers of the lenses."

Sounds like Vic is having the time of his life! If you are or know someone who is involved with independent 3D filmmaking let me know. It would be my pleasure to introduce you to all MarketSaw readers! We all share the same passion after all...

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Ridley Scott Going SciFi In 3D With "Forever War"

YES! Jim here. I can hear the shouts of enthusiasm from all the corners of the world as the man who brought us such SciFi masterpieces as BLADE RUNNER and ALIEN is going 3D! Ridley Scott was recently interviewed at the BFI Southbank's Blade Runner Day and of course I caught it as MarketSaw is Grand Central 3D. We knew Ridley was interested in doing FOREVER WAR back in October 2008, but the 3D announcement is a VERY pleasant surprise to say the least.

From Wikipedia: "The Forever War is a 1974 science fiction novel by Joe Haldeman. It won the Nebula Award and Locus Award in 1975 and the Hugo Award in 1976. Both an action-laden and contemplative story of an interstellar war between humanity and the enigmatic Tauran species, it deals with themes like the inhumanity of both war and its attendant bureaucracy, as well as with the results of time dilation space travel which may cause a soldier to return to his home only after centuries have gone by."

We all know what Mr. Scott is capable of and he has proven himself over and over again (GLADIATOR, BLACK HAWK DOWN, THELMA & LOUISE) but it is this return to science fiction that will have everyone giddy all day. I know I am! In 3D no less.

And who influenced his decision to go 3D? Check out Ridley's quote: "I'm filming a book by Joe Haldeman called Forever War. I've got a good writer doing it. I've seen some of James Cameron's work, and I've got to go 3D. It's going to be phenomenal."

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How to Train Your Dragon Image

Michael here.  After seeing the wonderful Monsters Vs. Aliens this past Sunday, I can't wait for How to Train Your Dragon, Dreamworks' second 3D film.  The story sounds great and the art design looks fantastic.  Here's the plot description:

Meet Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, heir of the Viking chiefdom, but a boy with one very big problem: a hero he is not. "How to Train Your Dragon' is the riotous story of Hiccup's quest to hunt down the fiercest dragon, bring it into submission, and—hopefully—pass his initiation. Instead, he ends up with the smallest, most ornery dragon—it's even toothless! Thus begins the hijinx of the world's most lovable, unlikely hero and a most reluctant "beast." Packed with energetic drawings and plenty of action, this boisterous tale is just right for fantasy fans or anyone with a spirit of adventure. Based on the book by Cressida Cowell.

How to Train Your Dragon flies into 3D theaters March 26, 2010

source: animatoons via comingsoon.net

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MUST WATCH: "Ice Age: Dawn Of The Dinosaurs" Full Trailer

Jim here. This is HILARIOUS! And I hate Ray Romano with a passion - so that is saying something. ICE AGE: DAWN OF THE DINOSAURS looks like a sure winner. It has all the elements we know and love from the originals (except Romano, lol) and delivers it in... THREE DEE.

So take a look! I hope this trailer is showing in 3D in front of MONSTERS VS. ALIENS this weekend...

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Quick Post: "Monsters vs. Aliens" Opens Huge In Russia

Jim here. According to Variety, MONSTERS VS. ALIENS has opening very well in Russia and Ukraine markets earning $6.2 million from 644 locations in those smaller markets - Katzenberg wanted to take advantage of their kid's spring break so it makes loads of sense to do this.

MvsA was the fourth highest grossing animation of all time in Russia - and take note that Russia does not have a great 3D screen penetration as of yet. Heck neither do we. Suffice to say there are far fewer 3D screens in Russia and we all know that the more 3D screens the better for revenues.

From Variety: "Jeffrey has always been very cognizant about having a world view, which is 'let's do the best thing for the movie and release it in the most commercially beneficial time we can,' " said Paramount prexy of domestic distribution Andrew Cripps. "To miss out on a weeklong holiday doesn't make sense."

Katzenberg has made similar moves in the past, including opening 2004's"Shark Tale" first in Australia."

So far so good. Read the whole Variety article here. Looks like a good time for all this weekend!

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Just How Big Will Dreamworks Animation's "Monsters vs. Aliens" Open?

Hey guys - Jim here. Question for you. If you were a betting person and had to wager on just how much MONSTERS VS. ALIENS would make this opening weekend - what would be your estimate?

I am saying that MvsA will take home $66.2 million this weekend based on a number of things but mainly that the they have 2000 screens set to change a bit more for 3D and 7000 screens total. I am loosely using KUNG FU PANDA as a barometer and factored in time of year and that they are both original ideas and not part of a franchise (yet!).

In the end - it will be a massive. Hey I could be wrong and the movie blasts off past $70m or it could disappoint somewhat and hit what THR has said it will do - $50m. I think that is on the low end.

Either way, I think the range of $50 million to $70 million is VERY nice territory and record setting for a 3D movie. Can't wait for the numbers! Looks pretty positive judging by the poll we are running on the left - 83% of MarketSaw readers want to see it at some point (as of today). If it performs well, it will bring viewers in earlier to see the animation! :-)

OH - And when you take in the movie, make note of what trailers are shown in front of it and whether they are in 3D or 2D! APPRECIATED! Let us know right here...

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3D Dark Ages vs. 3D Renaissance

Jim here. Well we are about to get inundated with magazines with the all too familiar anaglyph 3D format from none other than Entertainment Weekly (you saw their online contributions here already), Fortune, People, Sports Illustrated and Time. They are all using the same format that was used for the Super Bowl MONSTERS VS. ALIENS commercial - you know the one that does not do the movie any justice whatsoever.

Yeah that sounds agressive I know. Hey, I understand that ColorCode 3-D is just trying to make a go of it. But, sorry, this is the 3D Renaissance we are having right now, not the 3D Dark Ages. It is too confusing for audiences that are viewing the material thinking: "Why on earth would I pay to see that 3D? It's giving me a headache after only a few minutes!"

I will say this again and again and again: This ColorCode technology is NOT what we will be seeing in the theaters for MONSTERS VS. ALIENS or any of the modern 3D lineup listed here. Far from it. It is so far removed from the technology that I actually think it is doing more harm than good. Destroying the modern 3D brand if you will.

From the ColorCode press release: "3-D images will be supporting the stories and over 16 million 3-D glasses have been produced to be distributed together with the magazines. The 3-D system used to make this possible is called ColorCode 3-D and is the same system used for the 3-D commercials during this year’s Super Bowl when over 130 million ColorCodeViewers (3-D glasses) were distributed to American households.

The magazines will focus on their respective readers’ interest covering the latest news and upcoming trends in 3-D as an important part of visual communication. ColorCode 3-D has made it possible to visualize these stories with images that will stand out in full-color 3-D using the attached ColorCodeViewer. The images will also be fully viewable without the 3-D glasses but then as ordinary flat images."

I know many of you have already read my negative opinions on keeping anaglyph directly connected with modern 3D movies. This is for new readers that are just catching up now. Remember that when you go see MONSTERS VS. ALIENS or A CHRISTMAS CAROL or AVATAR this year, the experience is going to blow you away! It will not be the red and blue or red and yellow ordeal we go through with these anaglyph glasses. Trust me. You will LOVE it.

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New Breakthrough Polarized Glasses From iZ3D?

iZ3D Inc., designer, developer and pioneer of advanced stereoscopic 3D visualization systems, has created new linear polarized glasses for use with the popular iZ3D stereoscopic 3D monitors. The glasses are currently in beta testing are designed for use with the upcoming iZ3D Version 2.0/ DirectX®10 Driver. The company will be showcasing the new glasses on a system running the Version 2.0 driver at the Game Developer Conference in San Francisco, CA March 23-27, 2009 in Booth 6020.

“Customer feedback is very important to iZ3D. We have been forging new ground for stereoscopic 3D displays and drivers for the wide variety of gamers, movie buffs and graphic artists that appreciate the 3D experience. Through this feedback we became concerned with a small percentage of people who saw two variations of color through our partially elliptical polarized glasses,” said Thomas Striegler, CEO iZ3D Inc. “We began to research other types of polarization and were impressed with the many advantages that linear polarization provided to the entire S-3D visual experience.”

The new polarized glasses consist of multiple optical layers instead of one polarized layer. This eliminates color differences some people experience from each eye. The multiple layers create a pure linear polarization that enhances the overall stereoscopic 3D visual experience for everyone. Because of the enhanced imagery, the glasses also provide easier user adjustments to the 3D environment to provide better into and out-of stereoscopic 3D screen effects and ultimately the enjoyment of longer game play.

Sounds like a great new advance with the iZ3D system! Can't wait to see it in action...

iZ3D is a sponsor of MarketSaw.

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Monsters Vs. Aliens Review!

Hi everyone, Michael here.  I had the privilege of attending Dreamworks' crew screening of Monsters Vs. Aliens yesterday at the 3000+ seat Gibson Ampitheatre at Universal Studios, and my first impression soon after the film started was that I had never before seen 3D this immersive and effectively woven into the fabric of a movie.

As many of you know, Monsters Vs. Aliens is the first 3D Dreamworks release, as well as the first major animated movie to be designed with 3D in mind from story conception through final rendering.  The result of this design philosophy is evident on-screen: watching Monsters Vs. Aliens is often a dazzling experience.  At one point, a wave of debris particles from an explosion engulfs you.  At another, a character on a floating platform seems to enter the theater, buzzing in front of your face, but in a way that makes you believe that you and he are sharing the same space--you are transported into the world of Monsters Vs. Aliens, and at the same time that world is brought into yours.

A huge amount of credit goes to Phil "Captain 3D" McNally, stereoscopic supervisor on MvA, and his team.  Not only is the 3D technically perfect (there is never a moment where I was taken out of the experience by a jarring 3D cut or awkward shot), but the use of stereo space to aid in the storytelling is incredibly artful.  Whether it is an emotional, dramatic scene involving the main character, Susan, or an action sequence in the villain's spaceship, the 3D serves to heighten the emotional reaction of the viewer.  I could tell that the filmmakers put a ton of thought into the stereospace of every shot.

The story was a pleasant surprise, too.  The trailers don't really do justice to the human element in the film.  Case in point: The character Susan (aka Ginormica) is the central character, and gives the film its emotional and narrative anchor.  The supporting monsters are all hilarious, especially Bob, the indestructible gelatinous mass, who somehow bears an uncanny resemblance to his voice actor, Seth Rogan.

Before the screening Jeffrey Katzenberg came out and thanked the audience of crew members, telling them that they, through their work on the film, are trailblazers in their own right, having helped push modern 3D into existence.

And with Monsters Vs. Aliens, it is clear:  3D is HERE!

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Pang Brothers To Shoot First Asian 3D Horror Movie

Jim here. According to THR, the Pang brothers (THE EYE, 2005; BANGKOK DANGEROUS) are set to shoot THE CHILD'S EYE IN 3D at a reported budget of $4.5 million. Thailand shooting is to commence in June.

The directing twins, Danny and Oxide will be working with Universe Films, Digital Magic and Fat Face Productions.

“The Child’s Eye in 3D” tells the story of six stranded Hong Kong travelers during the shutdown of the Bangkok airport in the November 2008 anti-government protest and their supernatural encounters after the disappearance of three in the group."

In a related story, THR will be hosting a 2 hour panel on 3D within the Hong Kong - Asian Film Financing Forum, AND one and a half days of 3D screenings with the Hong Kong International Film Festival (including MONSTERS VS. ALIENS on March 24 - Katzenberg will be there as well). The festival runs March 22 to April 13. Good on you THR!

The Pangs are really starting to make some headway on the world filmmaking scene - I don't know too much about this project but it seems that they have heads on their shoulders so here is hoping they pull it off!

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Catch A Glimpse Of Upcoming 3D Animations Right Now

Jim here. Entertainment Weekly is offering you a chance to see some movie stills from upcoming 3D movie animations if you happen to have a pair of anaglyph glasses hanging around.

Or you can get the glasses in the March 27 issue of Entertainment Weekly, on newsstands right now...

I personally don't like using them, but hey it is only some pics, not a movie. Kinda cool seeing TOY STORY and ALPHA AND OMEGA (2010) - So enjoy!

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Perhaps Our First Glimpse At "Avatar" Marketing At LIE 2009

Jim here. Thank you Darkoo for sending me this tip on an upcoming licensing conference in Las Vegas: Licensing International Expo 2009, June 2 to 4 at my favorite hotel / casino Mandalay Bay (the tradeshow floor map displayed is only about half the show).

The big news is that potentially Fox will be showing off their promotional efforts for AVATAR - here is an excerpt from the Reuters piece: "In addition to several yet-to-be disclosed titles for 2010 and beyond, both studios will look to the world`s premier licensing marketplace to showcase such major 2009 releases as Night at the Museum 2: Escape from the Smithsonian (Fox), X-Men Origins: Wolverine (Fox), Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs (Fox), and Avatar (Fox), Cirque du Freak (Universal), The Wolf Man (Universal), Fast and Furious (Universal), and Land of the Lost (Universal)."

Licensing International Expo 2009 (www.licensingexpo.com) is the most established licensing event in the world and has become a global marketplace for leveraging brand and property equity for developing new licensed consumer products. The show's appeal brings together top-level retail and manufacturing executives from more than 82 countries who look to Licensing International Expo 2009 to discover new brands and revenue generating opportunities within the $191 Billion licensing industry.

Damn - wish I was in Vegas for the show, but I am going for Showest in a week or so - it would be terrible to have to return so soon! Joking of course, but really the show looks amazing. Hopefully Fox does indeed reveal some licensing projects for AVATAR and give us a further glimpse at what the movie holds in store for us.

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3D Insider Info: 3D Luminance Demo - Watch For Any Crosstalk

Hey guys, Jim here. This post is mainly for 3D industry insiders, but I thought it important enough to get the word out. From the Inter-Society Digital Cinema Forum (ISDCF) Discussion Group:

"There will be a demonstration of 3D material presented at various luminance levels. This will be shown at the AMC Burbank 16 Auditorium 3 on March 24, 2009. There will be two demonstrations: one at 10 am and a second at 12 noon. The same material will be presented at both demonstrations. If we have too many sign up, we may add a third showing at 8 am. NEWS: Added demonstration at 1:30pm.

This is a 35’ screen and we will be showing a RealD / Christie system at 4.5, 6, 10, and 14 ftL luminance. We have clips from many studios including Warner Bros, Pixar, and Dreamworks. This is a demonstration only to educate the community on the issues of 3D luminance."

Sign up here to attend the event:

Directions: Burbank 16 125 E. Palm Ave. , First and Palm, One Blk. North of Olive Burbank, CA 91502

This is cool because it will allow you to see the difference between low levels and higher levels of light and how it affects viewing with regard to crosstalk and personal enjoyment. Also note that the content being screened is of top caliber.

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Time Confirms My Estimate Of "Avatar" Budget: $300 Million Plus

**UPDATE: March 20: Time has "corrected" an error on their part: "The original version of this story misstated the cost of the film Avatar as being in excess of $300 million. The correct figure is in excess of $200 million."

Well both versions of their story is true in my books. $300 million plus is still in excess of $200 million lol. We will see what the final tally is. And I can guarantee you it isn't $200 million.

Jim here. WOW! For all you naysayers who said my budget estimates were way out of whack for AVATAR - I have news for ya - just as I calculated - AVATAR is a $300 million PLUS beast of an epic. And it is going to rock your world.

Here is that segment excerpt for you:
"Cameron's Avatar, due in December, could be the thing that forces theaters to convert to digital. Spielberg predicts it will be the biggest 3-D live-action film ever. More than a thousand people have worked on it, at a cost in excess of $300 million, and it represents digital filmmaking's bleeding edge. Cameron wrote the treatment for it in 1995 as a way to push his digital-production company to its limits. ("We can't do this," he recalled his crew saying. "We'll die.") He worked for years to build the tools he needed to realize his vision. The movie pioneers two unrelated technologies--e-motion capture, which uses images from tiny cameras rigged to actors' heads to replicate their expressions, and digital 3-D."

I recommend you read the entire piece over at Time right here.

Oh and here is a sign of the times - the most successful director of all time had this to say about working with 3D: "Every movie I made, up until Tintin, I always kept one eye closed when I've been framing a shot," Spielberg told me. That's because he wanted to see the movie in 2-D, the way moviegoers would. "On Tintin, I have both of my eyes open."

Another great quote from Cameron: "(On 3D viewing) ...is so close to a real experience that it actually triggers memory creation in a way that 2-D viewing doesn't." His own theory is that stereoscopic viewing uses more neurons. That's possible. After watching all that 3-D, I was a bit wiped out. I was also totally entertained."

Man, this movie keeps building and building. What an epic photo of three, 3D visionaries! Is there anyone who is NOT pumped about AVATAR yet? :-) Thanks to Darkoo for bringing this to my attention!

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Free Upgrade To 3D Ticket For "Monsters vs. Aliens"

Jim here. Hey, I have discovered a free upgrade to 3D for MONSTERS VS. ALIENS if you are a Bank of America customer! Thanks to MarkoMark for sending in the tip.

To check out the deal, click here. Can you get the deal if you are NOT a customer? I am sure you are breaking the spirit of the deal and probably the rules and regulations if you do.

I think this is a GREAT way to promote your company in a useful way. 3D is the premiere experience in today's theaters and while most don't mind paying the extra money for a 3D ticket (studies have shown this), it is still nice to see this happening. And everybody wins.

Awesome job Bank of America! It is not often I get to say something nice about a bank... :-)

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3D Shorts - "Thriller"; "Up" Opens Cannes; "Dragon" Team Working Hard; and iZ3D Compares 3D Formats

>>Update on Michael Jackson's THRILLER 3D movie:
Anschutz Corporation is financing the 3D movie version of the record breaking song and video for release after Jackson's upcoming 50 show concert tour. It is said to be based on roughly the same material as the upcoming Broadway musical of the same name.
- Sorry. Can't get excited about this project yet. Need to know it's gonna work and who is running the show.

>>Pixar's UP to open Cannes Film Festival:
Cannes organizers made the announcement today that UP will be the first animation and the first 3D movie to ever open the prestigious festival. "We are very proud," Thierry Fremaux of CFF told AFP, "to welcome Pixar studios, it's brilliant world, its talented directors and producers." UP is due in our theaters May 29th. Personally, I think it has a great chance at taking home the Palme d'Or for best film this year.
- This is indeed an honor. Congratulations to the UP team over at DWA!!

>>Dreamworks Animation are using TWO directors to get HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON done on time:
Dreamworks Animation is using both Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois as directors to get this movie done on a greatly accelerated schedule. Says a DWA staffer: "We know we're going to be working a lot of overtime on the picture, but nobody's uptight about it, everybody's happy to be working. The story's coming along, nobody is worried about that. We know the picture's going to get done. We've done it before, many times ..."
Further conjecture from the TAG blog: "Walking around, I saw more scenes of Shrek IV being worked on than Dragon, (Shrek in slapstick action with supporting players) yet the ogre lumbers into your local cinema a couple of months after Dragon. This could mean story is further along on Shrek than Dragon, or it might mean Shrek has more moving parts and needs a longer production schedule, or it might mean ... not much at all."
- We knew that they had two directors on for quite some time now (about a year - they also were writers) but this paints the scene a bit better. Obviously the Shrek franchise gets top attention over there as it is a guaranteed money maker. HTTYD is due in theaters March 26, 2010.

>>iZ3D to provide Game Developer Conference attendees a unique visual 3D comparison:
iZ3D is going full out to show typical users the difference between standard 2D, the famous red and cyan anaglyph 3D, and a state-of-the-art Stereoscopic 3D (S-3D) display. iZ3D will be providing this demonstration at the San Francisco conference March 23-27, 2009 in Booth 6020.
"3D visual technology has come a long way from the days of the red and blue anaglyph 3D effect that tricked your eyes into the illusion of depth through the use of color. 2D technology is the current norm and presents users a flat graphics experience that is great for word processing applications, but not for an immersive graphical experience such as gaming, " stated Tom Striegler, CEO of iZ3D Inc.
“The easiest way to explain the visual difference an iZ3D monitor provides is to play a game on a 2D monitor where you experience only a two dimensional game. On an iZ3D monitor, the graphics that were originally created in a 3D modeling program come to life, you duck items flying at you and experience movement such as flying or falling,” commented David Chechelashvili, iZ3D VP, Marketing.
-Awesome! If you are at the conference - definitely check this out and compare formats to see what everyone has been talking about...
iZ3D is a sponsor of MarketSaw.

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Forecast: "Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs" Looks Like A Damn Good 3D Movie

Jim here. Got an AWESOME new teaser trailer for CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF MEATBALLS! I have to say that this movie is looking GOOD. I mean really good. Dare I say we now have a fourth valid entrant in the best 3D (or 2D for that matter) animation house running?

Yes, Pixar is still the leader in my mind (and many) and we will see further evidence when Pixar's UP is released May 29th - but hold on a minute. Dreamworks Animation has a very solid offering in MONSTERS VS. ALIENS coming out in about a week. Disney Animation had a really successful go with BOLT last November ($283 million worldwide box office) and now comes our fourth option: Sony Pictures Animation.

I am not just saying that to create controversy, I am serious. CLOUDY looks very good. It is not Pixar good yet, but I have to say it is approaching it. They need to improve background and character detail but their use of color and light is awesome!

So what do you think? Pixar had better be watching in their rearview mirror or what? The content looks perfect for taking a family to enjoy a little craziness and then perhaps getting a bite to eat after the movie? :-)

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Michelle Rodriguez On James Cameron

SAME DAY UPDATE: Actually, MoviesOnline.ca has the original interview - check that out too! Thanks Matt!

Jim here. You have to love how frank Michelle Rodriguez can be sometimes. Well, all the time. So it was with little surprise that I read an interview with her over on SciFiCool where she really gushes over working with James Cameron. Can't say I blame her, but she certainly does so with her own particular idiom.

Says Michelle: "So, you’re working with a golf ball or you’re working with an “X” on a green wall and you’re just hoping that you’ve really hit your mark interacting with this. You’re just kind of trying to remember as much of your make-believe time at the age of 5 as you possibly could to get you through it. But, with this technology that he’s got, you just go there and you see what you’re interacting with right there because it’s a mixture of live 3D footage, the props on the set, and the virtual world that he spent God knows how long creating. It’s f**king amazing. It’s hardcore. I can’t even imagine anything bigger."

Oh yeah, she also says: "You know, I used to poop in my pants too, and I learned how to use the bathroom eventually." ...to see the context of THAT statement, be sure to read the whole thing.

According to SFC, Michelle is playing a pilot in AVATAR. Looks like Michelle's ship has got three green to land future mega roles after landing ANY part in this movie. Same goes for all the actors. Looking forward to hearing from them during their promo reels.

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Quick Post: Spielberg and Jackson Talking "Tintin"

Hey guys - Jim here. Thanks to Scumfrog for sending me this link! Check out a brief message from Steven Spielberg and Peter Jackson who were ramping up shooting performance capture for TINTIN when this video was shot. In order to see the clip which is on a French site, do the following:

- Go to this location.
- Click on the button labeled "VOIR EN ENTIER"

It is not very long but it is great to see them getting into the spirit of things. Bring it home guys!

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"Cane Toads 2" Invading In 3D

Jim here. I had an exclusive talk with Director Mark Lewis and he said that he has a new 3D project coming out soon that is close to his heart...

CANE TOADS 2 is a live action 3D film that is a follow up to the successful film CANE TOADS: AN UNNATURAL HISTORY. Mark is directing as he did the original, released in 1988.

The original was a 47 minute documentary (at times humorous) reviewing the introduction of Cane Toads in Australia to help control a sugar cane pest. Seems after being brought to down under, they refused to eat the sugar cane grubs and instead multiplied like rabbits. To make things worse, they have no natural enemies in Australia, partly because of their poisonous skin. CANE TOADS is used in schools and colleges to assist with biology and environmental science classes. It was also nominated for a BAFTA as Best Short Film and Roger Ebert calls the original "One of my favorite films".

Says Mark: "The film follows the journey of the cane toad in Australia and features a disparate cast of characters commenting on the impact of the toad since their introduction. From the lush rain forests of Puerto Rico, to the vibrant cane farms of far North Queensland then traveling through the mangroves of the Gulf Country into the harsh and arid landscape of the Northern Territory. The journey ends in Western Australia as thousands of toads are now poised only a few miles from the border and with the coming wet season the flood waters will spread them further West into thousands of square miles of the Kimberly region."

Mark adds, "Whether the story is a tragedy, a comedy of error or a tale of success - depends on your perspective."

The anticipated delivery is in December of this year. It is being distributed in Australia by Madman Entertainment and the US through Participant Media. The film is a co-production with Participant Media, Discovery Studios, Screen Australia and Radio Pictures.

I have not seen the original, but I suspect that the sequel will echo the outstanding research (that obviously WASN'T done when the toad was introduced!) and interject humor to bring out the best again of what seems to be a very entertaining news story. 544 votes on IMDb have the original pegged at 8 stars out of 10. Not bad!

I will give fair warning though: a little flick by the name of AVATAR will be clearing a fairly large swath of 3D screens in December of this year, including IMAX. I do hope their release goes well - just make it early December!

UPDATE March 17: Just heard again from Mark - they will be delivering the project in December but distribution will occur later! :-)

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New Line Lining Up New "Journey 3D"

Jim here. Few movies say action / adventure like Brendan Frasier movies - and New Line is back asking for more. Who can argue with that? The man has THE MUMMY franchise and now JOURNEY 3D franchise which seems to be growing into a life of its own adapting literary classics.

THR is reporting that a second JOURNEY 3D is in the works after the studio saw that the original made $240 million worldwide plus performed extremely well with DVD sales.

Eric Brevig is returning to helm the adventure and also share in the writing credits.

From THR: "One challenge to mounting a second film was finding a story to tell, since "Journey" author Jules Verne wrote just the one book. One concept considered was setting the story in Atlantis, but with several Atlantis projects under development at other studios and underwater photography costly, it was nixed. The sequel's story line came together by chance when a spec script by Richard Outten, a writer whose last credited work was 1993-94 Fox TV series "The Adventures of Brisco County Jr.," landed at Walden. Titled "Mysterious Travels," the adventure tale was based on the fantasy conceit that the literary tales "Gulliver's Travels," "Treasure Island" and Verne's own "Mysterious Island" all occurred on the same island."

Brendan Fraser and Josh Hutcherson are also being teed up for another launch into literary history.

I seriously thought that if there was a sequel, that Atlantis would be the focal point as it was hinted at during JOURNEY 3D. But you know - I love the idea of this franchise continuing on by using the classics as fodder for modern 3D. It is a way to mix the old with the new and rely upon proven master storytelling. Look for the second iteration to be wildly more successful than the first as movie goers worldwide become more familiar with the characters involved. I do hope there are no more crying scenes on beaches for Frasier though - it was the biggest downfall of the first go around.

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Quick Post: Exhibitors Meet with Wall Street; Hope to Speed Up 3D Rollout

Michael here. Variety has an article about a meeting between exhibitors and Wall Street bankers that took place in New York yesterday in which theater operators sought funding for digital and 3D conversions.

The financial crisis, and the resulting frozen credit markets, has slowed the expected pace of the digital and 3D rollouts.

An interesting tidbit from the article is that Regal has been redistributing its 232 3D-equipped projectors amongst various markets to maximize the potential revenue from future 3D shows.

I hope they find sufficient funding and are able to make up for lost time. Entertainment, which always thrives in down economic climates, seems as sure a bet as possible...and 3D films outperform their non-3D showings by significant factors. Let's hope they all see the obvious logic and solve this issue ASAP!

Check out the Variety article for more discussion of the current state of the rollout.

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Alice in Wonderland Images!

Hi everyone, Michael here with some scans of pictures and concept art from Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland.  The scans are of an article from Disney's new magazine Disney twenty three, and come from timburtoncollective by way of CHUD. 

I can't wait to see more from this film.  There aren't many better matches of artist and material than Burton and Carroll.

Click here for more pics from "Alice"!

Alice in Wonderland opens in 3-D on March 5, 2010

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LA Premiere Of "Monsters vs. Aliens": March 22

Jim here - Well it is almost upon us! The premiere of Dreamworks Animation's MONSTERS VS. ALIENS is in 10 days:

WHEN: Sunday, March 22, 2009, Promptly at 11:00 a.m.
Arrivals begin at 10:00 a.m.
Press Check-in begins at: 9:00 a.m.

WHERE: GIBSON AMPHITHEATRE
100 Universal City Plaza
Universal City, CA 91608

WHO: Cast members and filmmakers attending include: Reese
Witherspoon (Ginormica), Seth Rogen (B.O.B.), Will Arnett
(The Missing Link), Hugh Laurie (Dr. Cockroach), Rainn Wilson
(Galaxhar), Keifer Sutherland (General W.R. Monger), Paul Rudd
(Derek Dietl), Amy Poehler (Computer), Conrad Vernon and Rob
Letterman (Directors), Lisa Stewart (Producer), Latifa Ouaou
(Co-producer), Jill Hopper (Co-producer), Susan Rogers
(Associate Producer)

Celebrity attending include: Jason Bateman, Breckin Meyer,
Andy Serkis (Gollum), Jennette McCurdy (iCarly), Milly and
Becky Rosso (Suite Life of Zack and Cody), Chloe Moretz (Bolt)

ABOUT "MONSTERS VS ALIENS":
When California girl Susan Murphy is unwittingly clobbered by a meteor full of outer space gunk on her wedding day, she mysteriously grows to 49-feet-11-inches tall. The military jumps into action and Susan is captured and secreted away to a covert government compound. There, she is renamed Ginormica and placed in confinement with a ragtag group of Monsters: the brilliant but insect-headed Dr. Cockroach, Ph.D.; the macho half-ape, half-fish The Missing Link; the gelatinous and indestructible B.O.B.; and the 350-foot grub called Insectosaurus. Their confinement is cut short, however, when a mysterious alien robot lands on Earth and begins storming the country. In a moment of desperation, The President is persuaded to enlist the motley crew of Monsters to combat the Alien Robot and save the world from imminent destruction.

"Monsters vs. Aliens" is DreamWorks Animation's first InTru 3D Movie. A 2D version will also be available.

RELEASE DATE: March 27th, 2009

This film has been rated PG for sci-fi action, some crude humor and mild language.

Man - can't wait for this one. It has been a long while coming, but we are looking at potentially the first blockbuster 3D movie and I am stoked!

Source: Paramount

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Update on "Avatar" Trailer

Jim here. Looks like Jim Cameron emailed Harry Knowles over at AICN to clear the air about the rumors I posted here. And for the most part I am relieved to hear from the Cameron - he had some great things to say, especially about WETA producing astonishing work. As for the content, here is my position:

1. I stand by my sources. What does that mean? It means that I believe them and their opinions. Are we ever going to know for sure about the inner workings of a studio? No. So in retrospect was there any way for me to prove that my post's rumors were true? Nope - other than to contact Cameron which I do not have his email. I posted them with full knowledge that AICN will probably email Cameron or someone close to his camp as they usually do when I get my exclusives. They have done it at least twice before with the last time being a verification that my Na'vi exclusive image was in fact real.

2. I was very VERY clear that these were rumors, NOT facts and not verified in any way. That being said I was comfortable with the AVATAR trailer piece *and* AVATAR being based on real science. Interesting that Cameron did not refute the latter claim at all so one could read between the lines there I suppose. I put a value of 8 out of 10 on these as they both came from great sources. By the way we had more than one source tell us that there was 6 or more trailers rejected already; sources that have proven trustworthy.

3. I have heard about a spat between Spielberg and Jackson from more than one source. That counts for something with me. But still I did not have someone saying that it was absolutely a fact so hence the rumor value of 5 out of 10. To me, that says that it could just as well be false as true - I figured you as fans would be interested so I posted it. With AICN saying "also not true btw" - I say, meh - who cares really? I rated it 50%. And that is where I stand. At least I added something to the discussion about those two mega talented directors. Oh, and AICN gave no back up for that statement at all. Actually I found it funny they felt it necessary to talk about it.

So in the end I am surprised that the post is getting the media traction it did, given that I weighted the rumors appropriately (if I can't fact check with the big guy, then it is the best I can do), I stand by my sources, and I was disappointed how other sites treated the material - blowing it out of proportion. One thing is certain, we rather do need to see a glimpse of AVATAR soon as obviously fan anticipation is growing and justifiably so. This is a James Cameron movie after all guys! And if there is one thing MarketSaw is all about, it is James Cameron 3D movies.

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Marcus Theatres Ramp Up For "Monsters vs. Aliens" In Midwest

Marcus Theatres today announced plans to install 13 new RealD digital 3D systems at locations throughout the Midwest. The company plans to install the 13 additional digital 3D systems in time for the March 27th opening of DreamWorks Animation’s first 3D release, Monsters vs. Aliens. Advance 3D tickets for Monsters vs. Aliens will go on sale March 13 at all participating Marcus Theatres 3D locations. With the addition of the 13 digital screens, Marcus Theatres will offer digital 3D at 27 of its locations in seven states.

Bruce J. Olson, president of Marcus Theatres, said digital 3D is a growing force in the industry. “With up to 14 digital 3D films scheduled for release in both calendar 2009 and 2010, this powerful technology has promising revenue potential. We are very encouraged by attendance trends and digital 3D’s success to date has had a positive impact on our box office.”

“The digital 3D experience is a much more dynamic form of movie entertainment. Studios are dramatically improving the quality and making the experience even more interactive with outstanding graphics and life-like images that engage the viewer. Audiences are delighted by the sensory experience of being enveloped into the motion picture,” added Olson.

“The performance of films shown in RealD 3D is a bright spot for the entertainment industry, as the box office for 3D films has performed up to six-times better than the 2D versions of the same film,” said Michael V. Lewis, chairman and CEO of RealD. “We look forward to our expanded relationship with Marcus Theatres as the company capitalizes on the added value of the RealD 3D experience.”

“Upcoming digital 3D titles include Ice Age 3: Dawn of the Dinosaurs, A Christmas Carol and Avatar, James Cameron’s first feature film since Titanic,” said Olson. “With the new installations, approximately 90% of the communities we serve will be within a 30-minute drive from a Marcus digital 3D theatre location. Many more Marcus Theatres guests will now be able to enjoy vibrant and realistic 3D images using the latest RealD digital technology.”

Olson said the agreement with RealD provides for the installation of an additional 12 digital 3D systems in the future. The company installed its first 14 digital 3D systems in July 2008.

RealD will provide the equipment and glasses for the 13 new digital 3D systems. The new RealD installations will be introduced at the following Marcus Theatres locations:

Wisconsin
Hollywood Cinemas, Grand Chute
South Shore Cinemas, Oak Creek
La Crosse Cinemas, La Crosse
Cedar Creek Cinemas, Wausau
Eastgate Cinemas, Madison
North Shore Cinemas, Mequon

Illinois
Addison Cinemas, Addison
Elgin Theatre, Elgin

Iowa
Coral Ridge, Coralville
Crossroads, Waterloo

Minnesota
Duluth 10 Theatre, Duluth

Nebraska
Twin Creek Cinema, Bellevue

Ohio
Crosswoods Cinemas, Columbus

About Marcus Theatres

Marcus Theatres®, a division of The Marcus Corporation (NYSE:MCS), is the seventh largest theatre circuit in the United States and currently owns or operates 675 screens at 55 locations in Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota and Ohio, and one family entertainment center in Wisconsin. For more information, visit the Marcus Theatres website at: www.marcustheatres.com.

About RealD

RealD is the global leader in 3D, bringing the most advanced and realistic digital 3D experience to cinemas worldwide. RealD’s next-generation technology is deployed across the world’s largest 3D platform in more than 34 countries with over 8,000 screens under contract and nearly 2,600 RealD 3D screens today. Beyond cinema, RealD is the worldwide inventor and provider of key stereoscopic technologies used in science, manufacturing, marketing, and other industries, with thirty years of scientific development behind its systems. RealD’s mission-critical 3D technologies are used by organizations such as NASA, Pfizer, BMW, Boeing and more. http://www.RealD.com

Source: Business Wire. RealD is a sponsor of MarketSaw.

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Update on Cousteau's "Oceans 3D: Into The Deep"

Jim here. International distribution for OCEANS 3D is at full ahead according to THR. It is being hailed as "the first feature-length docu-fiction film shot entirely in digital 3D". Further info: "The film will leave audiences in awe of the beauty and diversity of the oceans - the source of all life on our planet - and inspire an even stronger desire to protect what they have either seen for the first time or re-discovered."

3D Entertainment holds rights for the US and Canada and the Wild Bunch have secured the following foreign sales: Gaga Communications in Japan; Eagle, Italy; New Vision, China; Deltamac, Hong Kong; Filmware International, Taiwan; Festive Film, Singapore; Wanda Distribucion Cinematografica, Spain; Monolith, Poland; Spentzos Film, Greece, Luxor Entertainment, Russia and CIS; Fivia in Croatia, Serbia, Slovenia and Bosnia and Herzegovina; Bir Film, Turkey; Acme, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania; Best Hollywood, Hungary; Hollywood Classic Entertainment, Czech Republic; Independenta Film, Romania; Lusomundo, Portugal; Orlando Films, Israel; Video Vision, South Africa; Europa Cine, Brazil and Europa Filmes in other countries of South America and Queen Films, Indonesia.

I first reported on OCEANS 3D back on October 2, 2008 when it was known as OCEANS 3D: VOYAGE OF A TURTLE. Since then it has evolved into OCEANS 3D: INTO THE DEEP and it is brought to you by master oceanographer and storyteller Jean-Michel Cousteau.

I would wager that a turtle still plays a pivotal role in taking the audience through the movie. Originally the storyline went like this: "The movie tells the story of Ella the sea turtle who embarks on a journey across the oceans in search of the origin of mysterious, far away calls. As movie goers experience the beauty and diversity of the oceans in stunning 3D, Ella encounters both her friends and her predators. What she finally discovers is that the greatest threat to the fate of ocean life doesn’t lie beneath the waves, but in the hands of the people from above." So while the title has changed, I imagine that the shots taken will still be integrated into the movie in some way. Awesome premise for a family movie to me.

I am REALLY looking forward to this project as the underwater scenes are going to knock it out of the park. Seriously. Check this movie out when it hits your local 3D theater. By the way, this is NOT limited to IMAX, but will be made available via RealD installations coast to coast.

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Quick Post: Gari Ann Douglass Joining 3ality Digital

3ality Digital, LLC, a leading developer of advanced live-action 3D entertainment technologies, announced today that the company has named Gari Ann Douglass to the post of Chief Operating Officer.

Ms. Douglass, a seasoned finance and operations executive, has an extensive background in entertainment industry management in both technology and production. Prior to joining 3ality Digital as Chief Financial Officer in 2007, Ms. Douglass served as Chief Financial Officer for Technicolor Entertainment Services. She was an executive with Paramount Pictures for more than 14 years, serving as Senior Vice President, Finance and Operations in the Home Entertainment division, as well as Senior Vice President, Corporate Finance. Prior to her tenure at Paramount, Ms. Douglass spent time at MCA Records and Columbia Pictures. A Certified Public Accountant, Ms. Douglass began her career as an auditor for PricewaterhouseCoopers in the entertainment division. She holds an undergraduate degree from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, and an MBA from the University of Southern California.

"From the day she walked through our door, Gari Ann has made an enormous contribution to our company," said Sandy Climan, CEO, 3ality Digital. "Her combination of operational and financial savvy has been invaluable as we have set out to establish 3ality Digital as the pace-setter in 3D entertainment technology."

"Gari Ann has brought a wealth of skills that have helped guide us through the enormous challenges of being an industry trendsetter," said David Modell, Chairman, 3ality Digital. "She has contributed greatly to our efforts, including the series of 'firsts' we have managed to achieve in the marketplace, starting with U2 3D - which was the first movie shot in live-action digital 3D - through our strategic technology deal with Quantel, to our latest forays into live 3D sports broadcasts with the NFL, Sony and Fox Sports, and 3D projects for network television."

"I am delighted to take on this new role in what has proven to be a dynamic and innovative company," said Ms. Douglass. "I look forward to our continuing success, and to the continuing, exciting evolution of 3D entertainment."

According to a report released in January by Piper Jaffray, 3D from Our Perspective: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Emerging 3D Ecosystem, new 3D technology will drive content production, displays and related technology to a sizeable market over the next few years, reaching an estimated $25B by 2012. 3ality Digital's image acquisition, processing and transmission technologies play a role in each part of this emerging ecosystem, as the company seeks to establish the standard for pixel-perfect, immersive live-action digital 3D.

About 3ality Digital

3ality Digital develops advanced technologies to power uniquely dynamic content and audience experiences in 3D. The company's mission is to deliver pixel-perfect 3D entertainment from image capture through broadcast, regardless of viewing platform, ultimately setting the standard for live-action digital 3D. Based in Burbank, California, 3ality Digital brings together world-class experts in the fields of filmmaking, science and technology to develop systems to power 3D broadcasts and environments in which audience members feel the action and become part of the moment. The company's series of "firsts" include the first movie shot completely in digital live-action 3D (U2 3D) the first live 3D broadcast of an NFL game (Raiders vs. Chargers, Dec. 4th, 2008); the first live 3D sports broadcast available to consumers (BCS Championship, Jan. 8th, 2009); the first 3D commercial broadcast on television (Sobe "Lizard Lake"); and the first episode of a scripted television series shot in live-action digital 3D (Chuck vs. The Third Dimension, aired on NBC on Feb. 2, 2009). For more information, please visit the company's website at www.3alitydigital.com.

Congratulations Gari Ann!

Source: PRNewswire. 3ality is a sponsor of MarketSaw.

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"Puppetmaster" Remake To Be Made In 3D

Jim here. According to BloodyDisgusting, 1989's PUPPETMASTER will be remade in stereoscopic 3D. Charles Band is looking to bring back his horror film and scare a whole new generation of fans.

From IMDb: André Toulon is a puppet maker and the best of the kind. One day he happens upon an old Egyptian formula able to create life, so he decides to give life to his puppets. The Nazis seek to use this knowledge to their advantage and in desperation, Toulon commits suicide. Some years later four psychics get on the trail of a former colleague who suddenly commits suicide, and they decide to investigate the mansion he killed himself in. Along with his widow, they uncover the secrets of the Puppet Master.

Not too much more is known at this point - but we will let you know when more pops up!

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Quick Post: RealD Rolling Into IMC Ireland

Irish Multiplex Cinemas (IMC), one of Ireland’s leading innovators in the film entertainment business, and RealD, the world’s leading outfitter of 3D-enabled theatres, announced today that IMC will add RealD 3D capabilities to each of its multiplex locations for a total of fourteen RealD 3D-enabled screens. The rollout will begin immediately with completion of all RealD 3D installations expected in April for the release of Monsters vs. Aliens (DreamWorks Animation).

Paul Ward director of IMC said, “The RealD 3D technology being installed in all IMC Cinemas shows IMC’s commitment to providing not only the best in customer service, but also the best customer enjoyment of the cinema going experience by the early introduction of the newest technological advances available.”

Bob Mayson, managing director of RealD Europe Ltd. said, “Ireland is an important market for us in Europe and we’re extremely pleased to be working with IMC to outfit all of their multiplex locations. Paul Ward and his team understand the potential of RealD 3D and are grasping the opportunity with both hands.”

RealD’s next-generation technology is deployed across the world’s largest 3D platform in more than 34 countries with over 8,000 screens under contract and nearly 2,600 RealD 3D screens today.

About RealD
RealD is the global leader in 3D, bringing the most advanced and realistic digital 3D experience to cinemas worldwide. Beyond cinema, RealD is the worldwide inventor and provider of key stereoscopic technologies used in science, manufacturing, marketing, and other industries, with thirty years of scientific development behind its systems. RealD’s mission-critical 3D technologies are used by organizations such as NASA, Pfizer, BMW, Boeing and more. www.RealD.com RealD is a sponsor of MarketSaw.

About Irish Multiplex Cinemas
Irish Multiplex Cinemas commenced trading in 1998 with the opening of the Athlone and Ballymena cinemas followed in 1999 with Dunlaoghaire and Dundalk cinemas openings. Mullingar opened in 2002 and new wave of openings start with April 9th opening of new IMC Cinema in Thurles with other openings planned for 2009/2010. The total screens operating under IMC banner with new opening of Thurles is 43. IMC plans to double this by 2012.

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3D Geek Alert: 3D Baseball Cards And Books

Jim here. Wow - I am liking this ingenious company and their products. Total Immersion is taking normal baseball cards (and other things like books), adding your webcam and creating a spectacular new way of delivering content.

After holding the card in front of your webcam, a animated 3D image of the player will appear and will rotate around if you turn your card around. The cards cost $2 for a twelve pack.

If they add stereoscopic 3D to the mix I will really be impressed.

Take a look at the vid below! Cool or what? As if kids don't need any more reason to collect these things - look out moms and dads out there!



Source: Engadget

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3D Rumors: "Avatar" Trailer Update, Jackson - Spielberg Spat?

Jim here. Well these are definitely in your "grain of salt" diet today as they are NOT verified - but quite interesting. I have also attached quotes from sources where available and a level of trustworthiness with each rumor.

1. AVATAR Trailer:
Eight, count 'em, EIGHT trailers have already been made for AVATAR and all of them failed the test with James Cameron. He is hard at work prepping his own trailer for the masses as he knows the first trailer has to be done right.
Strength of rumor: 8 out of 10 (trusted source)
- I have heard that there have been attempts made and turned down, but eight? Wow. Hate to say this, but now the anticipation and expectation is greater for AVATAR's trailer than many MOVIES!

2. AVATAR @ Showest:
Odds are that there will be an AVATAR clip shown at Showest, but likely behind closed doors.
Strength of rumor: 6 out of 10
- We will be at Showest JUST IN CASE. Believe me, we will be trying our best to get the goods on this!

3. AVATAR based on real science:
"Its fair to say that there are surprises in store. What Weta and Cameron have done is create a complete alien ecosystem grounded in hard science. If Pandora were real, it would look and feel like what will be represented on screen."
Strength of rumor: 8 out of 10
Would we expect anything less from Cameron? Heck he even has a new language developed for the Na'vi and it is even being incorporated into AVATAR's musical score!

4. TINTIN: Jackson - Spielberg Spat?
"I was told recently that Jackson got a proper dressing down by Spielberg on the TINTIN set. Jackson is famous for letting things 'evolve' during shooting (as the crew sit around thumb-twiddling). Apparently big Steve (who always delivers his pics under budget and on schedule) got irritated by this approach and basically told Jackson 'Lets all just concentrate on getting whats on the script page!' ... from experience I know he (Jackson) can't make his mind up on anything, much to the frustration of the crew who end up busting ass for stuff they know will never be seen."
Strength of rumor: 5 out of 10
Even if this was proven true, does it matter in the end? Nope. But the dynamics are interesting to say the least. Must be challenging when two exceptionally gifted directors with different styles of execution partner for a project. As long as a great story and magical 3D are created, that is all that matters.

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POLL: When Will You Check Out "Monsters vs. Aliens"?

Jim here. Got a quick poll for you. There has been TONS of promotion for Dreamworks Animation's MONSTERS VS. ALIENS including the much discussed Super Bowl 3D ad.

Jeffrey Katzenberg has been one of the most vocal industry leaders evangelizing 3D out there and I must say he is doing a bang up job. We would not be as far along as we are without him, his work promoting 3D and his commitment to make all future animation tentpoles in 3D. But how does that affect MvsA? Will there be enough substance to back up the promotion? Will it translate into YOU going to see the movie?

What about it? When ARE you going to check out MvsA? Have you heard enough about the movie to be stoked about it? Select your choice in the poll on the left column!

MONSTERS VS. ALIENS openings wide in both 2D and 3D theaters March 27th.

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Major "Avatar" Set Piece Details - See Through the Eyes of an Alien!

**UPDATE: March 7 - Jim here, got a MASSIVE update to Michael's story from a MarketSaw reader by the name of Cremany from Germany. He is claiming to have seen a 3 minute clip sequence of Na'vi running through Pandora! He also says there are 2 more clips involved - check out his quotes from the comments section of this post:

ok... i asked a friend who was at CeBit with me and he saw the whole sequence of avatar (3 minutes)! It was 100% avatar, but it wasn't a promotion for the movie, it was a promotion for a company which works on the photorealistic enviroment in the movie. The company uses 3 clips from avatar to present the technology.

the clip is in a first-person viewpoint and shows a person running on a a root very fast, suddenly the root ends and the person jumps to another root and start running again. you can see big trees in the size of a skyscraper, it is a very dusty and dark.
a friend told me the second clip shows a convoy drivinig through a canyon and suddenly a few big rocks roll into the canyon and the third clip looks like the inside of a huge mushroom with a crystal in the middle.
the clips are really photorealistic but you can see it's computer animated... impressiv but not mind-melting. it's very hard for me to explain because i didn't give the clip a lot of attention...i didn't realize that this was from avatar.

it was only first-person, but in the second clip my friend saw a few na'vis.but when i saw the clip i didn't know it could be avatar before i read the topic here on this site. i wasn't sure, so i ask my friend and he knew more aboud it and he saw all 3 clips, too. he has also a few connections to the event-management, they confirmed the avatar clips as promotion for a company which works together with panasonic.

This could be the clip we have been waiting for guys! I know there were clips shown in Nuremberg, Germany at the Toy Fair so this makes a lot of sense. CeBit is in Hannover. Keep it here for more updates!

Hi everyone, Michael here. A few months ago, G@BRIEL GR@Y dropped into a discussion here on MarketSaw, where he described what he considered to be the standout visual effects set piece of Avatar: a 12 minute sequence seen through the eyes of Jake in Avatar form as, among other things, he runs through the Pandoran jungle. Now, I have heard from a completely different source, who I can confirm as legit, that there is indeed a first person set piece in the film.

First, here is what G@BRIEL GR@Y had to say a few months ago:

There is a twelve min segment entirely in the first person viewpoint. this as im sure you all could understand is a tricky thing, you`ve seen examples in doom. which look cool....but never felt real. for instance blinking blurring of vision. photoreal is now easy. animateing it to define real is very hard. this most definatly is the money shot of the biggest movie ever conceived.

G@BRIEL GR@Y also posted the following on ComingSoon.net (as reported by MarketSaw reader Darkoo):

I was told about a 12 min segment of avatar where its in the first person viewpoint.and they were having probs making the scene feel real because people blink and have blurred vision. and from what im told they have found a very interesting compromise.

Here is what my source, who spoke to someone who had seen parts of the sequence, had to say to me a couple days ago:

1) He said that 'when you are running through the jungle of Pandora and their tails are moving in front of your face, your brain will melt.'

2) I asked whether it a return to Tech-Noir form from JC and he said 'its like Aliens, but from the POV of the Aliens' :)

3) Big Rock Candy Mountain is supposed to be 'amazing.'

4) Slightly off topic, the BAA preprod at Lightstorm was 'very much in line with Kishiro's artwork.' Imagine that in 3D? /brain melts

So G@BRIEL GR@Y's report is almost certainly legit, which is very exciting. The concept of Avatar is very much about letting go of the confines of your body, and experiencing the world through a different set of eyes. I think this sequence will be an incredible way of driving this point home. And, yes, it will certainly be brain-meltingly cool. It will be fascinating to watch Battle Angel continue to develop, too. Mark Goerner's interview shed some fascinating light on the huge amount of work that has gone into that project so far. I can't wait to see where it goes from here.

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New 3D Thriller Coming... Make That Michael Jackson's "Thriller"?

Jim here. Apparently the BBC got Randy Phillips, CEO of AEG Live, stating that after Michael Jackson gives his 10 live performances in London (announced today), he may very well be making a 3D movie based on THRILLER, his award winning music video of 1983.

I can't imagine what they have planned for it. Sure the video in it's day was entertaining but I don't know about having Jackson in the lead. His worldwide fans almost assure it would be a gigantic hit however. So money talks.

Horror musical? Anybody's guess. I know one thing - it won't be the same without Vincent Price's voice.

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3D LOL: Obama Outfitted With 238 Motion Capture Sensors For 3-D Record Of Presidency

Jim here. I couldn't resist. The geniuses over at THE ONION have struck again!

Here is an excerpt: "According to sources at the National Archives, Obama will spend the next four years in a custom-made, lycra-and-neoprene bodysuit, featuring 238 reflective "marker balls," which will instantly relay trillions of bytes of information to a central computer in Centennial, CO.

Careful to only move in short bursts, Obama reads to first-graders at a Chicago-area school. Designers at the motion capture firm Vicon Motion Systems will then use this information to build a lifelike 3-D wire-frame model of the nation's 44th president, before digitally "painting" over the structure with computer-generated skin, hair, and clothes. The data will be stored on a hard drive at the National Archives, where curators will employ it as a complete record of Obama's tenure in office."

Be sure to read the whole hilarious post right here. LOL!

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What Classic Movie Would You Like To See Converted To 3D?

Jim here. Well how about it? After seeing what modern 3D can do for recent releases and with this being the year of 3D, lets send a message to all those studios and 2D to 3D conversion companies out there: Here is what we would like to see in 3D!

Personally, the movies that I have at the top of my head are: LOTR Trilogy, THE MATRIX, UNFORGIVEN, PSYCHO, GLADIATOR, STAR TREK II, WESTWORLD, REAR WINDOW, SAVING PRIVATE RYAN, FULL METAL JACKET, MIDNIGHT RUN (yeah! I love that movie), THE EXORCIST, THE STING and SCARFACE.

I have another reader who helped bring this post to being with his input as well - his thoughts for movies are numerous! Namely:

STAR WARS http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0076759/
CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE THIRD KIND http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0075860/
LE MANS 1971 http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0067334/
GRAND PRIX http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0060472/
THE EIGER SANCTION http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0072926/
THE WAR WAGON http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0062472/
TRUE GRIT http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0065126/
LORD OF WAR http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0399295/
KILL BILL http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0266697/
KILL BILL VOL 2 http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0378194/
DAWN OF THE DEAD http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0363547/
FERRIS BUELLERS DAY OFF http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0091042/
BUTCH CASSIDY AND THE SUNDANCE KID http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0064115/
FALLEN http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0119099/
A KNIGHTS TALE http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0183790/
CONSTANTINE http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0360486/
THE PRESTIGE http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0482571/
THE GAME http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0119174/
ROMANCING THE STONE http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0088011/
BARRIO 13 http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0414852/
BLACK HAWK DOWN http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0265086/
CONAN THE BARBARIAN http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0082198/
28 DAYS LATER http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0289043/
28 WEEKS LATER http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0463854/
Bruce Brown's ON Any Sunday http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0067527/
CHILDREN OF MEN http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0206634/
THE BOURNE SUPREMACY http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0372183/
THE BOURNE ULTIMATUM http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0440963/
ZOOLANDER http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0196229/
THE ITALIAN JOB http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0317740/
OCEANS 11 http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0240772/
THE TERMINAL http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0362227/
BACKDRAFT http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0101393/
BEHIND ENEMY LINES http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0159273/
RONIN http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0122690/
GOONIES http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0089218/
HITMAN http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0465494/
TOMBSTONE http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0108358/
ADVENTURES OF BARRON MUNCHAUSSEN http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0096764/
ADVENTURES OF BUCKAROO BANZAI http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0086856/
THEY LIVE http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0096256/
Mr. & Mrs. SMITH http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0356910/
WANTED http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0493464/
THE SHINING http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0081505/

In fact, this MarketSaw reader invites you to email him at breakingwavepro@yahoo.com with the subject "Hey 3-D Guy-who would rather be SURFING at SUNSET CLIFFS" to tell him what ideas you might have *after* you post them here :-) Thought that was cool.

I know some companies have already started. I won't say who or what yet, but they are welcome to post what their current projects are if they so wish.

I have said it before: Don't limit your thoughts to color movies! I think a black and white movie converted to modern 3D would add another layer of suspense that would, for example, REALLY put Hitchcock films over the edge, like PSYCHO.

So what movies would YOU like to see converted?

Image courtesy of CADSolutions

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Panasonic Working With James Cameron To Release "Avatar" In 3D Blu-ray For Easter 2010?

Wow. Jim here - I have always been worried that there will be another format war centered on the 3D home entertainment market as the industry comes to grips with the task of uniting everyone. Now comes word that Panasonic has been secretly working with James Cameron and in particular, a little project known as AVATAR. Their goal? To introduce Panasonic's open 3D technology to the public using a fully blown out, 3D HD release of AVATAR on Blu-ray by Easter of 2010!

DVDTown states that this info comes via "industry insiders". Apparently, clips of AVATAR have been shown to select audiences to show off their 3D Home Videos capability. (By the way, www.3DHomeVideos.com points to MarketSaw - heh). I actually got wind of this a couple weeks ago when a reader sent me a note saying that a clip of AVATAR had been shown at the Nuremberg Toy Fair. I have been trying like crazy to get a view of this material, but no go thus far.

If you are reading this and you have seen the advance previews of AVATAR, drop me a email will ya? jim (at) marketsaw (dot) com. That's an order! :-)

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3D Geek Alert: MUST HAVE - Doodle Kit :-)

Jim here. Thought this was good for a laugh... or not? Maybe this thing actually works wonders to improve your handwriting - you know, make it easier to read as it is in three dimensions.

Note the ingenious stereo pencil holder with adjustable depth control! You would have to play around with the separation until you optimized where your eyes best merge the images.

I kid you not - I would like to try these out! If you have seen anything 3D related that you think would make a good candidate for 3D Geek Alert - let us know!

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Remake of "Re-animator" In 3D?

According to STYD (via Cinematical), the anticipated remake of RE-ANIMATOR (after a dismissal of a sequel notion) has hit the desk of Ray Haboush (Halcyon International Pictures) who will be producing the project. The original director of BRIDE OF RE-ANIMATOR Brian Yuzna looks, to be interested as well (thanks Conbarba).

Don't forget, the original has a RottenTomatoes critic's score of 92%. These are hard, and bloody, shoes to fill.

The main character of RE-ANIMATOR is Dr. Herbert West, a student of medicine who is developing a formula to revive the dead. Things go horribly wrong once human testing starts.

Haboush and Yuzna are very interested in shooting RE-ANIMATOR in 3D, so you know what? They have my blessing. Another great horror movie is being introduced to 3D!

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J.J. Abrams sports "Avatar" threads at "Trek" Panel!

**SAME DAY UPDATE #2: Jim here - A great MarketSaw reader named Mirza sent me a link to Trekmovie and I blew up the blow up of the Power Suit! :-) You can see the bottom of the shirt much better with this enlargement.

**SAME DAY UPDATE: Jim here - Got an update from the authentic Na'vi photo source (so it is DAMN reliable!) that the image on JJ's shirt is "an exploded parts schematic of the Power Suits (as referred to in the scriptment)." AWESOME!

Wish we could make more of it out. Anybody have better shots of it than this? Send it our way if you do! And definitely check out the AICN WonderCon report...

Michael here. We've heard a bit about Jon Favreau's and Danny Boyle's enthusiasm for Avatar, and of course many other top directors have visited the set. So it doesn't surprise me that J.J. Abrams would don an Avatar shirt at the WonderCon panel for Star Trek. After all, his Uhura is Cameron's Ney'tiri.

Click here for Quint's great report on the WonderCon "Trek" panel over at Aintitcool, including close-ups of J.J.'s Avatar shirt!

I'm having some trouble making out the text and design on the shirt - any readers who can help, please chime in below.

photo by Quint

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