3D Museum In The Works For Los Angeles!

An exciting new 3D museum is in the works for Los Angeles and I'm thrilled to announce the fundraising campaign for the initiative. Check out the link to the project at the bottom of the post and consider supporting the cause. A very worthwhile endeavor!

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 3, 2014 - Award winning 3-D filmmaker Eric Kurland has announced the launch of a new non-profit arts organization, 3-D SPACE: The Center For Stereoscopic Photography, Art, Cinema, and Education. 3-D SPACE will operate a museum, gallery, theater, library and classroom dedicated to both the preservation of the history of stereoscopic imaging, and the advancement of current and future 3-D arts and sciences.

“Thanks to recent advances in digital technologies, there is a renewed enthusiasm for 3-D content. From the record-breaking box office returns of 3-D movies such as TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION and GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY to the new public interest in virtual reality due to the upcoming Oculus Rift device, 3-D seems to be back in the spotlight,” says 3-D SPACE founder Eric Kurland. “But most people aren't aware that stereoscopic imaging has a very rich history that dates back to the 19th century. We want to create a center to celebrate the work of talented artists, photographers and filmmakers who have used the medium of 3-D as their creative tool, and to educate the public on the art and science of stereography, from it's analog beginnings in the 1830s to the immersive digital realms of the future.”

Kurland has over ten years experience in connecting the public to the 3-D community. “My work as President of the LA 3-D Club, the most active organization in the country for 3-D enthusiasts, as well as my professional stereoscopic credits (including 3-D Director for the Grammy nominated OK Go music video ALL IS NOT LOST, and Lead Stereographer for the Oscar nominated animated short MAGGIE SIMPSON IN THE LONGEST DAYCARE) puts me in a position to be able to bring all aspects of the 3-D spectrum together, from the fans, to the independent artists, to professionals working in the entertainment industry. I have assembled an expert advisory group that includes 3-D author, photographer and legendary guitarist for the rock band Queen, Dr. Brian May, Actor/Director Thomas Jane, and movie archivist and historian Bob Burns, among others.”

“Just as successful institutions such as the Paley Center for Media or the Cartoon Art Museum are respectively focused on television and radio, and comics and animation as areas of historical discussion and study, 3-D SPACE recognizes stereoscopy as an important part of our cultural heritage. Sadly, many of the photos, motion pictures and technical artifacts from the birth and development of 3-D are deteriorating and need to be preserved...and that takes skill, dedication and money.”

3-D SPACE has begun an internet-based fundraising campaign at www.3-DSPACE.org to support the initial preservation of the more rare and fragile materials in its growing collection and to secure a building to house the museum and educational center. 3-D SPACE plans to open to the public in 2015.

I wish the project and Eric the best of luck in this exciting effort!

Special 3D Double Feature Event In Los Angeles: Watch INFERNO 3D And DARK COUNTRY With Thomas Jane

I'm friends with actors Thomas Jane and Ron Perlman as well as writer Tab Murphy so of course when I heard about this screening of DARK COUNTRY I wanted to publicize it right away. TJ has been instrumental in his participation and passion for modern 3D and I'm very grateful for his contributions. If you're a fan of Jane's too, be sure to drop by and check these movies out and meet the man himself. Details below. You will love DARK COUNTRY.

A screening of classic and contemporary “Desert Noir 3D” films, INFERNO 3D (1953) and DARK COUNTRY 3D (2009), sponsored by the LA3D Club, will take place at the Downtown Independent Theater on Sunday October 28 at 7pm. On hand to introduce the films will be the “Czar of Noir,” Eddie Muller, founder of the Film Noir Foundation, and Thomas Jane, director and star of Dark Country 3D. Jane will also be doing a book signing at 5pm at the theater for his new graphic novel publication of Dark Country, with art by Thomas Ott.

Inferno 3D is the only 1950s 3D film produced by 20th Century Fox studio. Presented here for the first time in a brand new digital restoration by film historian Daniel Symmes, Inferno makes striking use of 3D in telling the tale of a treacherous wife (Rhonda Fleming) who leaves her millionaire husband (Robert Ryan) in the Mojave Desert to die.

Click to enlarge

Dark Country, released by Sony Pictures/Stage Six in 2009, is a 3D horror/noir thriller starring Thomas Jane, Lauren German and Ron “Hellboy” Perlman. About Dark Country 3D, Muller has written that “the movie is a delirious dream of the dark pulpy stuff we loved as kids—and always will.” The evening of this big Desert Noir 3D double bill will also feature a display of historic 1950s 3D promotional materials in the lobby of the Downtown Independent Theater and a question and answer period between Muller and Jane before the screening of Dark Country 3D.

The Downtown Independent Theater is located at 251 South Main St., Los Angeles, CA 90012.
More info about this screening and other LA3D Club screenings is at: la3dclub.com, Info: 323-709-6450

ENJOY!

Exclusive: 3DFF To Honor Roger And Julie Corman! Will Screen ATTACK OF THE 50 FOOT CHEERLEADER - And More About The HUGE Show This Year!!

Click to enlarge

I just heard from my good friend and festival director Christopher Crescitelli that he and his team at the 3D Film And Music Festival will be honoring Roger and Julie Corman with their Lifetime Achievement Award! Not only that, but Roger's recently completed comedy / horror ATTACK OF THE 50 FOOT CHEERLEADER will be screening in 3D with EPIX at 10:30pm at Regal Cinemas on Saturday, September 22. Find out who stars in the movie right here - you may be surprised!

EPIX is a joint effort from Paramount, MGM and Lionsgate. MarketSaw is a proud Media Sponsor of the Festival.

You can secure seats for the festival right here.

Here's what else is in store for you at this years event (from the press release):

Reprising his role as Celebrity Host of the Festival for a third year is actor/director Thomas Jane (Hung), who commented, “The art of 3D Filmmaking continues to grow, and 3DFF is humbled and honored to host multiple film and music legends at this year’s event along with their exciting new 3D movies, which are some of the best natively shot indie-3D films that the Festival has ever seen in its lineup. We wish all the 3DFF Filmmakers this year best of luck in the competition and we encourage you to continue making great 3D content.”

The complete slate of all sixty 3DFF films will be published in coming weeks.

Additional Presenting Sponsors include Dreamfactory3D, 3opolis, VER, National CineMedia, AEG, Network Live, Regal Cinemas, Idea Giants, Principal Media, 3net and Best Events with support from Fandango, NVIDIA, Marketsaw.com, Koziak Productions, BVGPR, Jade Productions, Deluxe, StereoD, New Wave Entertainment, 3DContentHub.com, Libra Group, Luxe Hotels, Fantastic Fest, Alamo Draft House, The Advocate, Out in 3D, Party Truck Game Center, ACL Live, Stock3DPhotos.com, Gen Audio, LA Metro, Living Social, Amoeba Music, UltraD, INGRI:DAHL , Raw Studios, The 3D Academy of Stereoscopic Arts & Sciences, and Hollywood Chamber of Commerce.

3DFF, the world’s largest all-digital 3D Film, Music, and Interactive Festival, celebrates its fifth anniversary at its new location inside Regal Cinemas L.A. LIVE Stadium 14, with additional activities taking place at the JW Marriott Los Angeles, L.A. LIVE, The Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles, Club Nokia, The Conga Room and The GRAMMY Museum, all located within the L.A. LIVE sports and entertainment district in downtown Los Angeles. The three-day festival, presented by RealD, 3net and LG Electronics, opens Thursday, September 20th with multiple world premiere red carpet screening events starting at 8pm and 10pm, inside Regal Cinema L.A. LIVE Stadium 14’s luxurious 800-seat Premiere House Theater. The Opening Night Gala event takes place at L.A. LIVE’s Club Nokia later that evening following the World Premiere screening of the highly anticipated thriller SPIDERS 3D, directed by Tibor Tackács presented by Millennium Films/Nu Image. 

Doors for the Opening Night 8:00p.m. screening at Regal Cinemas L.A. LIVE Stadium 14’s Premiere House will open at 6:30p.m. for a 7:00p.m. (PDT) start time for the new one-hour 3DFF Pre Show Program, which will feature a roundup of sneak preview clips and trailers from almost every major Hollywood studio including: Sony Pictures Animation, 20th Century Fox, Paramount Pictures, Open Road Films, DreamWorks Animation, The Weinstein Company, Lionsgate, Focus Features, and more. The Pre Show Program will also feature footage from Sony Pictures Animation’s HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA (the film opens nationwide in 3D and regular theaters September 28); Warner Bros’ trailer from Peter Jackson’s THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY; and a 3D Tribute to the night’s honorees.

For late-night movie fans, on opening night be sure to catch the Midnight Screening of DREDD 3D, presented by Lionsgate and Regal Cinemas. Please note that tickets to DREDD 3D at Midnight on September 20th can only be purchased at the Regal Cinemas L.A. LIVE Stadium 14 Box Office or online through Fandango.com. *3DFF badges will not be accepted for this screening.

But it's not all about movies at the show as they are also honoring music legends involved with 3D:

During the multi-day event, 3DFF honors several music industry and cinema legends, including Quincy Jones and Montreux Jazz Festival Founder Claude Nobs, both of whom co-star in the World Premiere of 3DFF’s Opening Night Documentary Film, EXPERIENCE MONTREUX in 3D. This groundbreaking film invites viewers to experience the Montreux Jazz Festival and the legend of Europe’s most famous contemporary music capital, and features a classic lineup of live performances and interviews from over fifteen jazz, contemporary and indie artists, including: Angelique Kidjo; Broken Bells; Elvis Costello; Herbie Hancock; Joe Bonamassa; Leszek Mozdzer, The Maccabees; Macadam Jazz band; Marcia Castro; Martina Topley Bird; Massive Attack; Mumford and Sons; Nas & Damian Marley; Sophie Hunger; and Yacht. The film has been heralded as the best 3D music film ever produced and it is a must-see for any 3D enthusiast or music fan.

“Director David Barnard captured a mix of visual elements and Montreux charm by combining the energy and spirit of Montreux in a wonderfully immersive stereoscopic world. The film embraces the 3D medium and makes the viewer feel like they are in the front row of the concert,” commented GRAMMY Award Winning Producer Sheira Rees-Davies, one of the producers on the film along with Frank Dreyer, who spearheaded the project in cooperation with HELLO! and The Dream Factory for Nagra/Kudelski Group, Eagle Rock Entertainment and The Montreux Jazz Festival.

The 3D team behind the project also captured two additional 3D concert films during the Montreux Jazz Festival, both of which will also World Premiere at 3DFF as part of a special collaboration with The GRAMMY Museum and their Clive Davis Theater. Each one-hour film, QUINCY JONES AND THE GLOBAL GUMBO ALLSTARS LIVE IN MONTREUX 3D and HERBIE HANCOCK THE IMAGINE PROJECT LIVE IN MONTREUX 3D will screen continuously through the Festival for 3DFF attendees and GRAMMY Museum patrons alike.

On Closing Night, Saturday, September 22, at The GRAMMY Museum and The Conga Room at L.A. LIVE, 3DFF and AEG will honor music legend Quincy Jones, who will perform with his Global Gumbo Allstars Band, which is comprised of some of the most talented musicians and performers in the world. The event also includes a 3DFF Screening of the Quincy Jones-produced WE ARE THE WORLD FOR HAITI 25 BEHIND THE SCENES DOCUMENTARY in 3D presented by AEG featuring the late Michael Jackson.

But hey - what about 3D gamers? We've got you well covered:

3D game enthusiasts will want to be sure to stop by the LG 3D Game Truck which will be parked outside the Regal Cinemas L.A. LIVE Stadium 14 from 5:00p.m. to 10:00p.m. on Opening Night, and from 12:00p.m. to 8:00p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Each lounge will be outfitted as an ultimate at-home theater with the latest 3D movie trailers and games. LG Electronics will also present five different CINEMA 3D TV and Game Lounges inside L.A. LIVE during the 3DFF. Look for the LG CINEMA 3D TV and Game Lounge displays at Regal Cinemas L.A. LIVE Stadium 14, The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles, JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE, The Conga Room, Club Nokia, and The GRAMMY Museum during the Festival’s regular hours of operation, which are as follows:

The GRAMMY Museum:
Thursday, September 20th 11:30am to 2:30pm
Friday, September 21st 11:30am to 7:30pm
Saturday, September 22nd 10:00am to 7:30pm

All other venues:

Thursday, September 20th 5:00pm to 2:00am
Friday, September 21st 12:00pm to 2:00am
Saturday, September 22nd 9:00am to 2:00am

L.A. LIVE discounted parking rate of $10 for ALL DAY parking for 3DFF attendees is located in the West Garage via Gate G. Please note that the $10 parking fee will be collected at time of entry. Save time and money plus get special 3DFF discounts when you take the LA METRO transit system. Bring your L.A. Metro Card to the 3DFF Box Office to learn more.

Ticket prices range from $10 to $100 and can be purchased in advance online at www.3dfilmfest.eventbrite.com. 3DFF will operate a Box Office at L.A. LIVE from Sept 16 to 20 inside the L.A. LIVE West Garage. For additional information please visit us online at www.3DFF.org or contact a representative at the number provided below.

For Festival Sponsorship and Partnership Opportunities
Christopher Crescitelli | Festival Director, 3D Film Festival
T: 415-871-1707 E: chris@dreamfactory3d.com

# # # #

About The 3D Film And Music Festival/ Dream Factory 3D
Dream Factory 3D, headquartered in Beverly Hills, is the world leader in interactive 3D live events. Its signature program, the 3D Film & Music Festival, is currently celebrating its fifth anniversary as the world’s first and largest all digital 3D Film, Music, and Interactive Festival. In addition to their annual Hollywood based event, the festival operates year round programs through its 3opolis 3D nightclub and 3D Lounge touring initiatives at major events and trade shows around the world. The festivals new franchise program will see the launch of 3DFF Prague, and 3DFF India tent pole events later this year. 3DFF events have been held in more than 10 countries, and 100 cities around the world and the company is a highly regarded and trusted partner in 3D to some of the world’s leading 3D technology companies and organizations. To become a supporter of 3DFF or for more information please visit www.3DFF.org

About RealD Inc.:
RealD is a leading global licensor of 3D technologies. RealD's extensive intellectual property portfolio is used in applications that enable a premium 3D viewing experience in the theater, the home and elsewhere. RealD licenses its RealD Cinema Systems to motion picture exhibitors that show 3D motion pictures and alternative 3D content. RealD also provides its RealD Display, active and passive eyewear, and RealD Format technologies to consumer electronics manufacturers and content producers and distributors to enable the delivery and viewing of 3D content. RealD's cutting-edge 3D technologies have been used for applications such as piloting the Mars Rover. RealD was founded in 2003 and has offices in Beverly Hills, California; Boulder, Colorado; London, United Kingdom; Shanghai, China; Hong Kong; and Tokyo, Japan. For more information, please visit our website at www.reald.com

About 3net:
3net, the joint venture of Sony Corporation, Discovery Communications and IMAX Corporation brings together three of the world's leading media, technology and entertainment companies to provide the nation's first and only fully programmed, 24/7 3D network. The three partners deliver an extraordinary collection of award-winning 3D content, technology and production expertise, television distribution and operational strength to the project, with a mission to bring viewers the highest quality and most immersive in-home 3D viewing experience possible. The channel features the most extensive library of native 3D content in the world, including genres that are most appealing in 3D: natural history, documentary, action/adventure, travel, history, kids and family, lifestyle and cuisine, concerts, movies, scripted series and more. 3net is currently available on DIRECTV channel 107. The venture also produces a wide range of original, native 3D content for various distribution platforms under its 3net Studios banner. For more information, please visit www.3net.com.

About LG Electronics USA:
LG Electronics’ award-winning CINEMA 3D TV technology represents the fastest-growing 3D TV segment in the United States. LG Electronics USA Inc., based in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., is the North American subsidiary of LG Electronics, Inc., a $49 billion global force in consumer electronics, home appliances and mobile communications. In the United States, LG Electronics sells a range of stylish and innovative home entertainment products, mobile phones, home appliances, commercial displays, air conditioning systems and energy solutions, all under LG’s “Life’s Good” marketing theme. LG Electronics is a 2012 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year. For more information, please visit www.lg.com.

About The Montreux Jazz Festival:
Founded by Claude Nobs in 1967, over the years the Montreux Jazz Festival has become an unmissable event for music fans in Switzerland and around the world. Its stages have been graced by all of music’s greats, from Miles Davis to Ray Charles and from David Bowie to Prince. Whereas Jazz constitutes the Festival’s historic core, other styles of music were quickly integrated into the Festival, bound together by a common thread of mutual curiosity and enthusiasm. Having made its reputation with its ambitious programming choices, the Montreux Jazz Festival offers musicians an ideal platform and an intimate setting for the duration of its two weeks.

About Eagle Rock Entertainment:
Eagle Rock Entertainment is the largest producer and distributor of music programming for DVD, Blu-Ray, TV, Audio and Digital Media in the world. Eagle works directly alongside talent to produce top quality, High Definition and 3D programs, both concerts and documentaries, including The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, The Who, Queen, The Doors, Jeff Beck, U2, Peter Gabriel, Paul McCartney and Ozzy Osbourne. Eagle is a Grammy Award winning company and has received over 30 multi-platinum, over 50 platinum and over 90 gold discs, worldwide. Eagle Rock Entertainment has offices in London, New York, Toronto, Paris and Hamburg.

About Millennium Films/ NU Image:
Millennium Films, (www.millenniumfilms.com) founded as Nu Image, Inc. in 1992, is one of Hollywood’s longest-running independent film companies, with 20 years and more than 300 movies to its credit. The company now produces, finances and handles international sales for 5-8 star-driven movies per year, generally with budgets between $20 million and $80 million. It is best known for such films as “The Expendables” (a $273 million worldwide hit); “Righteous Kill” (reteaming Robert De Niro and Al Pacino) and Werner Herzog’s “Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans.” Co-founders Avi Lerner and Trevor Short run Millennium Films, and its senior executive team includes: Mark Gill; Boaz Davidson; John Thompson; John Fremes; and Lonnie Ramati. Millennium also operates full-service studios in Shreveport, Louisiana, and Sofia, Bulgaria.

About L.A. LIVE:
Developed by AEG, L.A. LIVE is a 5.9 million square foot / $2.5 billion downtown Los Angeles sports & entertainment district adjacent to STAPLES Center and the Los Angeles Convention Center. With nineteen world-class restaurants along with venues such as STAPLES Center, Club Nokia, a 2,300 capacity live music venue; Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE, a 7,100-seat live theatre, the Conga Room and the one-of-a-kind GRAMMY Museum®, saluting the history of music and the genre’s best know awards show, L.A. LIVE is the region’s most active live content and event destination. L.A. LIVE is also the home of a 54-story, 1001-room convention “headquarters” destination (featuring The Ritz Carlton and JW Marriott hotels and 224 luxury condominiums – The Ritz Carlton Residences at L.A. LIVE – all in a single tower); the state-of-the-art Regal Cinemas L.A. LIVE Stadium 14 theatres, “broadcast” facilities for ESPN, a 100,000sf special events deck along with residential and office space all centered around Nokia Plaza L.A. LIVE, a 40,000sf outdoor event space.

THE DARK COUNTRY Will See Theatrical Light

Jim here. This is awesome news! You all know Thomas Jane who I interviewed last summer and he has been hard at work on multiple projects not the least of which is his directorial debut THE DARK COUNTRY, in 3D no less!

I believe this is the first 3D movie where the same man directed and starred in it. I have high hopes for the movie as it has been shot in Film Noir style and has some pretty exciting shots in the can. To hear more about the movie check out my interview with Thomas.

Also starring in the thriller is Ron Perlman and Lauren German. Variety says that Sony Pictures now holds the domestic distribution rights and will use a 3rd party to do so, while Nu Image holds international rights.

The movie involves a newly married couple coming across a dying victim in the middle of the road in the desert.

More when I get it!

Thomas Jane's "The Dark Country" Photos!

Jim here. New photos of Thomas Jane's 3D movie THE DARK COUNTRY has hit the interwebs. Take a look at these shots from the film noir thriller by clicking through to Quiet Earth.

Definitely looks film noir! Should be an awesome movie in 3D.

Thomas Jane Will Fight "The Devil's Commandos" In 3D!

Jim here. Got some GREAT news for all you Thomas Jane fans out there - he is close to finishing up his much anticipated first 3D movie THE DARK COUNTRY and has signed on for at least a year of a new HBO series called HUNG. Further his GIVE 'EM HELL MALONE is wrapping as well!

So what could top all of that off? How about fighting Satan's army in the middle of WWII? Yes! He and a group of commandos are on a rescue mission during the Second World War and literally ALL HELL BREAKS LOOSE and they of course must defeat them somehow. And it is written by Todd Farmar - love this guy's work!

Thomas will be acting and directing this one in 3D - just as he did for THE DARK COUNTRY. Busy man! This project reminds me of those old comics of my childhood - WEIRD WAR...

Read more about it over at my friends at ShockTillYouDrop.

Quick Post: Thomas Jane's "The Dark Country" Set For Mid 2009

Jim here. Variety reports that Sony will release THE DARK COUNTRY in mid 2009. The thriller is shot in stereoscopic 3D and Film Noir style and was directed and starred in by Thomas Jane.

For an in-depth exclusive interview with TJ and updates on his other projects like KILLSHOT, check out my exclusive interview with him here.

I still think he is the best choice for Jonah Hex.

Exclusive! Interview With Thomas Jane Director/Actor In "The Dark Country": New 3D Techniques!

Guys - Jim here. I have a special treat for you this week - Thomas Jane agreed to talk about his upcoming 2009 3D thriller entitled THE DARK COUNTRY with yours truly and he has more than a couple of surprises in store for you! The movie involves a newly married couple coming across a dying victim in the middle of the road in the desert.

One item in particular is VERY intriguing: Tom uses something he calls an "Articulate Matte" (I believe that is how he would spell it) and he believes this is the first time anyone has ever accomplished this feat - he cuts the movie frame down intentionally for the whole movie and uses the extra black space surrounding the picture to augment certain 3D effects that are going to be SPECTACULAR. With modern 3D, the images are already popping off the screen when so desired - but with Tom's Articulate Matte, he is able to have the 3D extend even further, tricking the eyes into even more depth!

He also uses 4K RED ONE cameras in stereo configuration as well as tiny cigarette pack sized 3D cameras that were used for intricate scenes involving 360 degree wrap around shots and extreme angles.

He is very proud of his movie and what they have managed to pull off on a fairly tight budget. He is working with Sony on this picture and co-stars include Lauren German and Hellboy himself, Ron Perlman. Tom is a steadfast advocate of using 3D to help tell the story and not as a gimmick - THE DARK COUNTRY was shot as a traditional Film Noir - plenty of shadows and lighting effects - it really does sound gorgeous.

Have a listen! (~18 minutes) I have been a fan of his since "61*" (he played Mickey Mantle) and of course "The Punisher". He also recently topped Stephen King's "The Mist". A great guy and extremely knowledgeable about the 3D process. Can't wait for this picture to come out next year!



I will have more info and teaser material for THE DARK COUNTRY as it becomes available. Stay tuned!

3D In The New Hollywood: Mega Executives Meet At Sundance - New Movie Clips!

Update (Jan 10th): Attendees and panelists will be viewing an exclusive first glimpse of Thomas Jane's "The Dark Country" - 3 minutes of glorious 3D. Of course the premiere of U23D is taking place at Sundance as well. More info when I get it!

The big cheese are all getting together in one very large 3D enchilada. Sundance. I first posted on this meeting back on November 22nd, 2007 and promised I would update you with particulars. Well it has expanded and now there is going to be a huge gathering of the three dimensional types at the Festival, Sunday January 20th at 11:30PM at the Prospector Theater.

The panelists include - get this - Jeffrey Katzenberg, Steven Spielberg and James Cameron. As I have said before, it doesn't get any better than that. Well, if Peter Jackson were there... Ok, it could be better. But not much!

Some of the other names that are going to be there include: Vince Pace, Jed Weintraub, Steve Schklair, Phil McNally, Catherine Owens and Ray Zone.

There is going to be an AWESOME lineup of 3D movie clips from the various movies in 3D production right now. I am awaiting confirmation before I post these, but wow!

As always, I will update ASAP. The event is ticketed however - may be a completely closed house.

SCAR 3D: Interview With Norman Twain, Producer

As requested by readers, I have some more info about the upcoming live action 3D horror film, Scar 3D. Norman Twain is the producer of Scar 3D and I had the opportunity to discuss the movie with him as well as details on his 3D technology and upcoming projects:

MarketSaw: Norman, you have an impressive background in the business - what has led you to producing "Scar"? This is your first 3D effort?

NT: After "Spinning Into Butter", which to some extent was a horror story in itself in the making of it, I decided I wanted to divert from the films and plays I had previously done and do a horror film. I'd be lying if I didn't say that the commercial applicability of horror pictures was an attractive lake to go swimming in, not knowing at the time that there were monsters lurking in the bottom of the lake. I was asked to see a demonstration by a minor 3D operator in New York, and one minute into the demonstration I knew Scribble Face, which was the title of Scar at that time, should be done in 3D. Then, the project took on a new life and a new challenge to become the first live-action 3D horror film in the emerging state of 3D. Incidentally, that new emergence has continued, and nobody is denying that 3D has been around forever. But nevertheless, it is having a rebirth today and Scar is on the cutting edge of all movies made.

MarketSaw: There has been some very exciting technological developments in the 3D movie industry in recent years - I have heard that you are using the same technology that James Cameron is using for "Avatar" currently shooting in New Zealand; exactly what equipment do you mean - the cameras, software or perhaps the entire Cameron/Pace Fusion System?

NT: With Jed Weintrob, my director, and Christian Bruun, my 3D maven, we looked at a lot of rigs, including that rig where I first saw that 3D presentation. We decided from a financial point of view and an experience point of view that the best rig for us was from NHK in Japan, which consisted of two Sony-950s mounted and converged on a platform. For so many reasons, this was the best situation for us. We talked to Pace as well as Sklar, not knowing what their rigs were, and after we made our deal, we found out that Cameron was using virtually the same rig. We took from nobody, except NHK. We never thought once of the Cameron/Pace team or the Zemeckis team, and we made our film with our rig and Cameron and Pace are making theirs. It's not going to matter what rig anybody uses. It will depend on the story and the audience reaction to the story.

MarketSaw: Was the Cameron/Pace team involved any further than providing the technology?

NT: As I said, the Cameron/Pace team, or whatever you would call them, did nothing whatsoever to provide us with the technology. We saw the NHK rig in the Consumer Electronic Show in Las Vegas and starting our negotiations with NHK New York and made the deal without even meeting the camera team, who came from Tokyo.

MarketSaw: Scar is being credited as the first released, live action 3D HD movie ever. That is quite an undertaking! What can you tell me about the hurtles that you had to jump in order to get this project made?

NT: The hurdles were comparatively simple, because candidly we didn't know what the hurdles were. We did this independently, and for all intents and purposes green-lighted our own film. In answer to your question, we're still hurdling. Doing something new is always difficult. I doubt if we were a studio picture I could have gotten it made within the time frame we did, because what people don't know, they're afraid of. With information supplied to me by Jed, Christian, my co-producer Dan Hank and NHK, I made every decision and, fortunately, got lucky.

MarketSaw: What can you tell me about the storyline of Scar? Any teasers that you care to share?

NT: Scar has a simple storyline. Sixteen years ago, a high-school girl was lucky enough to escape from the torture chamber of a serial killer and, in that escape, violently killed that killer. Now, she returns for the first time to her hometown, and murders start occurring as if that same killer is back again. It's a bloody and disgusting mess. But I think fun.

MarketSaw: Thomas Jane is also filming in 3D HD right now in New Mexico for his movie "The Dark Country" - I know he is using one of the best 3D experts Hollywood has ever produced as a consultant to assist him in the shooting - did your Scar team use a 3D veteran as a consultant?

NT: Thomas is directing? Who is the consultant? And is it a consultant such as a stereographer type, or somebody who just is knowledgeable about 3D? In our case, we had the Japanese, who I would say are as experienced as anybody in terms of stereography and 3D. Additionally, I had Christian Bruun, my co-producer who has been involved in 3D and this technology for year. Jed Weintrob, my director, was no slouch either, and his knowledge was very helpful. Through Jed and Christian, we had a pipeline to Joshua Greer, Lenny Lipton, and Robert Turner, three major honchos at Real D (it was Lenny who invented the Real D polarizer). So, yes, I'd say we were very well staffed as far as expertise goes.

MarketSaw: Yes, Jane is directing for the first time and it is in 3D. Jane had John Rupkalvis on the set (whom I have interviewed here) and many others like Ray Zone and Geoff Boyle.

NT: John Rupkalvis was hired years ago by Dan Symmes as Dan's assistant. I've never worked with him. Dan can give more info as needed. I've never worked with Ray Zone on any production, but he has been a figure in 3-D for years. I first met him at the local L.A. Stereoscopic Club meetings back in the '80's. He and Dan are somewhat known as 3D historians, having both published books, etc. And the only thing I know about Geoff Boyle is he's a cinematographer on the "Dark Country" independent. Jane is a smart guy, and I'm sure he researched well. My reference of experts are all different. Maybe I should meet these guys.

MarketSaw: What was it like working with Angela Bettis, Christopher Titus and the rest of the cast? Any stories to share? Were there any other actors attached at some point that didn't stick?

NT: Angela Bettis is not only, in my opinion, one of the best, most underrated actresses around, but also just a sensational person. She's the only actress I know I just enjoy hanging out with. To say she's a pro would be underestimating the situation. She's also very reasonable when it comes to knowing what her job is and how important just doing the movie is. Christopher I didn't know that well. Unfortunately, he was right in the middle of an awful divorce when he was shooting. He also was in and out on days that he didn't shoot, but all in all, I found him also a real pro. I'd be happy to work with him again. It goes without saying about Angela. There were no firings and no actor hired that didn't stick. Jed and Aaron casted very competently. The only problem I think we had was with a mother of one of the younger actors who was, candidly, a pain in the ass. The daughter would be emancipated soon, and I'd use her again in a second, but not as long as the mom's around.

MarketSaw: For me, horror movies have gotten a little "been there, done that" lately and my opinion is that the industry was moving more and more to gore and shock value to generate excitement in the audience. Sort of a Roman coliseum effect where people demanded more and more blood for entertainment because they had all seen it before. But now with 3D and the immersive factor of almost being there when the blade is dropped - how are test audiences reacting?

NT: I don't disagree with your assumption about horror, but because we're in 3D, we're in good shape. The test audiences in the 19 to 25 demographic are liking the hell out of the film. Younger than 19 can't get in, and older than 25, I don't even know what they're doing there. But the testing we've done has been very positive.

MarketSaw: By adding 3D, you are essentially adding a ton of age groups! I know I will go see this pic whereas I would not have in 2D.

Have you signed on a distributor yet for next year? Any date or time frame you have in mind for the release?

NT: Getting close on a distributor for the United States and Canada. We hope to be in the streets in April. It's been tough -- two deals busted at the closing, and there have been a lot of turn-downs. But we're on track for April. Foreign-wise, the film has sold very well in Europe: Russia, Spain and Portugal, etc.

MarketSaw: You mentioned that you have another exciting 3D project coming up that is still untitled - a thriller about a group of teenagers that find themselves trapped in a deserted and now underground Eastern European factory who are being pursued by a character called "The Hunter". What can you tell my readers about this project? What technology are you using? Casting ideas? Will it follow in the isolated and brutal mold of the "Hostel" series?

NT: The untitled project is not a horror film, but a PG thriller also to be shot in 3D. It's about urban explorers. We'll use similar technology to what we used in SCAR, but not the Japanese crew. As I said, it's a thriller, as opposed to a torture picture, so it will be nowhere near HOSTEL.

MarketSaw: Can you give any ideas about casting? When do you go to shooting? Release window?

NT: I don't have a title for the project. I call it the "Untitled Urban Explorer Film". We intend to shoot around April 1st, and that could get kicked back a few weeks for the availability of a star. The first casting idea we all had that I could mention to you is Ellen Page. She was an idea from "Hard Candy". Since neither my director or writers or me are her best friends, we'll never see Ms. Page in 103 of makeup for our film. She's just in huge orbit. We wouldn't even talk to her connections. Too unrealistic. But then there are the other ten who do make sense. I like Amber Tamblyn, but she's busy, and I like Danielle Panabaker, but I believe she is tied up, too. So it will be one of those beauties. Don't know who. For the lead male, believe it or not, I was thinking Thomas Jane. But all we're having now is thoughts, not going out to anybody presently. After the first of the year, we make big moves. It will be in 3D and will again appeal mostly to the 17-30 audience.

MarketSaw: Where do you see the 3D industry headed in the next few years? What sort of 3D features would like to see get done?

NT: I think, in moderation, the films that are in 3D will attract a larger audience than if they were in 2D. I personally think that the only films that should be considered to be done in 3D are horror films, thrillers or martial arts. 3D would enhance any film, but, candidly, why? Take Peter Jackson's RING series -- it might have done a trifle more business if it were in 3D, but it was unnecessary. KING KONG probably would have been a better film if he did it in 3D. I saw a clip of SINGING IN THE RAIN in 3D -- what's the point? For me, thrillers and martial arts would be all, I would think, should be done in 3D.

MarketSaw: I will have to agree to disagree on that one Norman! I really want to see Jackson's movies in 3D.

NT: We're on the same page. You're not the typical audience, but more of a professionally-oriented 3D audience. You would be interested in seeing most films in 3D. It's got to be a case by case.

MarketSaw: Kind of. I have always been interested in 3D and bringing the movie-going experience much closer to reality. MarketSaw's audience is really interested in 3D and the direction that Hollywood is taking, but there is still some confusion out there: Many people believe that all 3D movies are going to look like the 'performance capture' Beowulf! Justifiably so, as there is nothing else out in the theaters yet that will tell them otherwise. How would you best describe what we are going to see in Scar that will embed some realization about live action 3D?

NT: This is a difficult question. Candidly, BEOWULF flopped. However, its 3D numbers were quite impressive. That has to tell you something. 3D will create a more compelling environment. That's all. It's never going to make a bad film good, and if a film is good and really good, then it doesn't need 3D. I'm very cynical about this, and I find myself kind of ashamed at saying while my original intent of doing SCAR in 3D was terrific and correct, the fact that it's in 3D is saving our ass.

MarketSaw: Lastly Norman, if you were giving advice to a young filmmaker wanting to create 3D movies, what would you say to them?

NT: The advice that I'd give to a young filmmaker is to just get a job wherever you can and keep working with your eyes and your ears open as hard as you can. Move from one job to another, and don't waste any time asking people for advice.

Link: www.scarthemovie.com

Exclusive: "The Dark Country" Filming Behind The Scenes in 3D! And...

You can only find this on MarketSaw. Thomas Jane's first directoral debut "The Dark Country" which is being filmed in 3D and slated for release in 2008 has filmed their behind-the-scenes (BTS) action and interviews ALSO IN 3D. The movie's DVD will feature segments from between takes and what happens behind the camera using a two camera system in 3D. This is the first time ever that a production will have DVD features available in 3D as well.

My source deep on the set for "The Dark Country" told me that John Rupkalvis was the 3D camera operator for the effort. I am good friends with John too. He was seen all over the set capturing the actors and sets in ways we will obviously not see in the movie.

I'm gonna love this picture. First of all I am a huge Jane fan - since "61*" where he played Mickey Mantle. Being up front with you, I have promised my source not to disclose all of the info that has been relayed to me as we all want to keep the surprises for the release. I agreed because I am not always about spilling the beans and plus I have a great relationship with him and obviously want to continue that! I have heard about the story, action in specific scenes and what they have been trying to accomplish with the 3D cinematography and I am gonna say now that it is spectacular! Some of the scenes are going to leave us awestruck and wondering how they did it. I can tell you that the film is shot as a film noir - so quite dark and lots of shadows - and that should give you hints as to some of the surprises coming up in 3D.

Can you tell I am psyched for this flick? Did I mention that I worked with Ron Perlman before? Yep. I was a background actor on "Outlander" - just look for the tallest "why am I running all night" viking in the background! Ron is in "The Dark Country" as well.

Thomas Jane's "The Dark Country" in 3D

"The Dark Country" has started filming in Albuquerque in high definition 3D and 2D. It is a film noir thriller written by Tab Murphy of "Tarzan" fame. Best of all it stars my past co-star Ron Perlman who I performed with on the set of "Outlander" last fall. Ok. I was a background actor but that's beside the point isn't it? Anyway Hellboy himself will be front and center along with Lauren German (Hostel: Part II) and of course The Punisher, Thomas Jane himself.

Hyde Park Entertainment and Stage 6 Films will produce it (Patrick Aiello / Ashok Amritra).

"The Dark Country" is leading the pack to claim the left over theater positions available between the studio tentpoles. Once DWA's "Monsters vs. Aliens" and James Cameron's "Avatar" have had their summer runs in 2009 for example, there will be room for other projects. Other projects such as Chris Condon and Ed Meyers remake of "Stewardesses 3D" and "Dumbass 3D" provide lighter fare for theater goers. Expect much more from Thomas Jane's Raw Entertainment company. He is definitely on the right track!

I really enjoyed Jane in "61*" and now that he is an afficionado of 3D he is certainly impressing me with his vision. Break a leg with your first feature directing gig Thomas.

Here - check out the daily blog direct from the set of "The Dark Country"; tons of cool photos and stories! Looks like they are having fun.