The Future of Cinema: Re-imagining Theaters

 Ok, let's assume that the coronavirus is going to be around a while and that a vaccine is some time away from being ready. Let's say another 12 to 18 months. That would probably require the re-imagining of theaters by theater owners, right?

Thankfully, many theaters and their employees have been saved somewhat by federal stimulus (USA) so far, is it enough?

Theater patrons need to feel that they are safe when they return to the cinema, so social distancing and mask-wearing must be in place and monitored (probably not too far off from monitoring recording devices in the audience). It can be done.

Christopher Nolan's TENET (July 17) is tentatively planned for release in July as well as Disney's live-action MULAN (July 24). Does this mean there is a good chance it will happen? Well, let's go to the top to find out:

When John Fithian, CEO of the National Association of Theater Owners (NATO) spoke to Variety on this very subject, he said:

"Some states will be able to reopen relatively quickly. Others may take a while. The question is how long will that take? We’re not just a national industry. We’re a global industry. Major studios won’t release big, wide-release films if only a couple of states and a handful of countries in Europe are open. They need a wider footprint. We don’t need 100% of markets to be in business, but we need a majority of them."

Aha. So a majority would mean literally 50%+ of all worldwide markets must be open for business, not just some states and provinces where Covid-19 has had its restrictions reduced. That's about 100 countries, give or take out of the 195 that exist today. Clearly, some countries have more impact than others (USA, China).

Will this happen for July 2020? Good question. I won't get into coronavirus numbers here, but some countries are not doing well, or are experiencing new outbreaks and hotspots. To release tentpoles like TENET and MULAN, studios are going to need some sort of confidence of box office return. 

Now, this is focused on NATO and theatrical release, what about a combination of theatrical and streaming? That might be able to whet the appetite of studios. What do you think?

And what about social distancing within theaters? Have you seen mockups of what a theater might look like when they reopen? It's not pretty, but functional. Revenue will be clearly down from pre-coronavirus. More screenings may alleviate demand.

Wearing masks must be mandatory obviously and while not being comfortable at all, it's a sacrifice that has to be made for the privilege of going to the cinema.

Improved air filters for air conditioning / heating would probably be prudent.

As I mentioned yesterday, drive-ins will need to address washrooms and concessions; so will theaters. There must be protocols to be strictly followed. Ordering your popcorn and soda through an app (reserving a washroom stall?) and having it delivered to your seat might help with lineups.

So, if the stars align and half the world box office markets open around the world; studios decide to release their big-budget tentpoles; theaters adopt revised seating plans / restrict washroom use to one or two / clean everything all the time / deliver concessions to your seat, and you don't mind wearing masks, maybe paying more and risking infection, WOULD YOU GO?

Surely I've missed some things here - let me know in the comments!

Sources: Variety
Images: The Guardian | IMDb

First Look At Ben Affleck's Batman From BATMAN VS. SUPERMAN

Click to Upsize

I'm surprised this is out so early, but hey why not. Take a look at the new image released from director Zach Snyder's twitter account. My first thought is Ben Affleck has beefed up even more for the role though perhaps the suit has made some physical enhancement liberties. Whatever. The suit looks gothic and visceral at the same time - and interesting combination. The top of his nose looks like there are some character lines put in - perhaps in homage to Adam West's mask.

Can't see much of the batmobile, but as standard, it looks badass. The tires look like they are ready to hit the asphalt, no question.

Affleck is joined in the movie by Henry Cavill (Superman), Gal Gadot (Wonder Woman), Jesse Eisenberg (Lex Luthor), Jeremy Irons, Holly Hunter, Tao Okamoto and Callan Mulvey

BATMAN VS. SUPERMAN is slated for release on May 6, 2016. More info, including a synopsis when we get it.

Batman closeup courtesy of adamhlavac via Collider

CinemaCon Day 2+3.5: Universal, Nolan Open to 3D, and Trade Show

Tim here, CinemaCon kicked off the 2nd day with a presentation from Universal, but for the most part they showed off their 2D 2014 lineup and a bit of Fast and Furious 7 from their 2015 lineup, and a quick sizzle of their upcoming 3D films like Minions. The most I got out of the day was from the Trade Show part where I got to experience a couple of the new technologies that are going to be brought into the theaters. I'll touch a little upon those and the first half of Day 3 including what Christopher Nolan had to say about 3D. Day 3 opened with a presentation from Disney, and a little on that in a bit. 

Let me start with Christopher Nolan: he's open to the 3D format! He said that he doesn't have a project that he feels works in the format at the moment, as he feels it's a more independent and personal movie going experience while he tries to make films that can be a shared theatrical experience. He was asked in his interview with Hollywood Reporter Chief Critic Todd McCarthy the question about whether there were any 3D films that he thought used the format very well and Nolan answered that he thought what Baz Luhrmann did with The Great Gatsby was a spectacular use of the format. It's a promising start for getting a movie from him in the future that will be Stereoscopic 3D. The next key is for the digital camera technology used to capture the images to surpass his technical requirements. That's what he said as to why he's a celluloid guy, and why he wishes to continue shooting on film, especially now that he can shoot on 65mm IMAX film. His comments on film vs digital distribution of course caused some upset amongst attendees, and even caused some exhibitors to leave the room in the middle of the interview. You can't knock the digital distrubtion platform to the theatrical exhibitors who are adopting it.

Disney showed off their coming line-up at the start of the third day, including a preview of Pixar's Inside Out, which will be in stereoscopic 3D. The presentation wasn't in S3D, so I can't comment on how well it is used, but considering that Pixar has a great track record with the format we can all feel confident that it will be spectacular. The extended clip resulted in enthusiasm from the crowd treated to it. Sadly it won't hit until 2015. They also highlighted their Marvel connection and the upcoming Captian America: The Winter Soldier and Guardians of the Galaxy. Both look like they'll be huge successes. Disney was very mum about anything Star Wars related, so there's no new news coming out of CinemaCon regarding the project. Maybe next year.

Trade Show wise I got to experience the new 4D Experience that will be accomanying future 3D movies. I got to experience 3 different companies tech during the show. 4DX and MediaMation Inc's 4D System were more than just motion seats as they added mist, smoke/fog, wind, and additional effects, while D-BOX mainly added motion to the seat. I'll write up more about my thoughts on these technologies in an individual post about 4D technology. First thoughts are however that they do add something new and interesting to the movie going experience. I'll have to experience a full feature with these additions to fully be able to state whether it works or not.

I also visited the Christie Booth to see their new 6P Laser Projection System, which is phenomenal! Instead of the traditional 3P Laser System this system has more efficient and brighter images as it's 2X the lumens that the regular 3P system has. They showed us examples of both standard 24 frames per second footage and some HFR footage in 48 fps from The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug. You should go to your local theater and demand they update their Christie Projection System to the 6P Laser System because not only will it enhance the 2D cinema experience, but most importantly the 3D experience.

Lastly, I attended a special presentation from Barco yesterday that showcased some of their new technology that's being added to movie theaters. Their 4K Digital Projector that's capable of doing 3D in HFR is amazing in it's quality, and so is their surround sound system Auro 11.1, which sounded spectacular. Then they have an interesting new thing for pre-show entertainment in their Interactive-Dimension technology dubbed "iD". Then there is their new wrap-around screen idea called "Escape" that happens to remind us that theaters are desperate to keep movie goers attending. This system is designed for the ADD/ADHD generation who can't watch one screen, but need three to satisfy their needs. Either the image can be stretched across all three screens, or a widened capture can occur, or 2-3 separate images can be displayed. So if you're not satisfied with the angle in front of you then you can look to the left or right to see a different one. I'm not sold. However, I could see a creative use for this system, if the filmmaker knows how to utilize it to it's fullest potential. For example had TV-show 24 gone to the big screen this format would have worked well with its multi-screen transition effect.

So far a lot of cool movies coming up this year, and some really cool technology for the cinema. Sony's Presentation was a bit later in the day and after I wrote this, so I'll be writing about that in another post. Sony showed 30-minutes of The Amazing Spiderman 2 and it was awesome. More on that later. As well I'll go more in depth in individual posts on the demos I got of RealD's TrueImage and the new MasterImage MI-Horizon3D system.

UPDATED! Comic-Con 2013: Superman And Batman Face Off In 2015! Flash Is Coming In 2016 And JUSTICE LEAGUE In 2017!!

**UPDATED BELOW!!

Where better to announce comic book super hero movie news? Comic-Con!

Everyone had better start a separate savings account to see all the blockbuster tentpoles that are dropping in 2015. Add WORLD'S FINEST to that list (that's my title guess and I'm sticking to it). Yes, that's right - Superman and Batman in the same movie and soon! Makes for interesting and somewhat legitimate competition for Marvel's THE AVENGERS 2 as well.

No announcements yet on the return of Zach Snyder, David S. Goyer and Christopher Nolan - but that should just be a formality. They won't screw this up... they better not screw this up! Don't mess with lightning in a bottle. That goes with 3D as well. DC must match up to Marvel and why they haven't tried to one up them with native 3D productions is beyond me, but at least they are in the game.

But hold on! DC and Warner Bros. didn't stop there. FLASH is coming in 2016 (YESSSS!!) and JUSTICE LEAGUE in 2017. More details to come - but WOW. I'm liking the announcements, the suspected people behind the announcements and the pure excitement of it all.

More when we get it! Man, what great news.

** SAME DAY UPDATE:
Here's the official press release about the Superman - Batman team up movie...

On the heels of the worldwide success of Man of Steel, director Zack Snyder is bringing together the two greatest Super Heroes of all time —Batman and Superman —for the first time on the big screen. The announcement was made today by Greg Silverman, President, Creative Development and Worldwide Production, and Sue Kroll, President, Worldwide Marketing and International Distribution,Warner Bros. Pictures.

The current hit, Man of Steel, has taken in more than $630 million at the worldwide box office to date, and climbing. Along with its star, Henry Cavill, the upcoming film brings back Amy Adams, Laurence Fishburne and Diane Lane. The new Batman has yet to be cast.

Snyder is co-writing the story with David S. Goyer, who will then pen the screenplay. Production is expected to begin in 2014, with an anticipated release date in Summer 2015.

Silverman stated, “Zack Snyder is an incredibly talented filmmaker, but beyond that, he’s a fan first and he utterly gets this genre. We could not think of anyone better suited to the task of bringing these iconic Super Heroes to the screen in his own way.” Kroll added, “We are thrilled to be back in business with Zack and his team on this next movie. The success of ‘Man of Steel’ is a wonderful testament to the love and support that both fans and new audiences, worldwide, have for these characters. We are very excited to see what Zack has in store for all of us.” Diane Nelson, President, DC Entertainment, noted,“Superman and Batman together on the big screen is a dream come true for DC fans everywhere. All of us at DC Entertainment could not be more excited for Zack’s continuing vision for the DC Universe.”

Zack Snyder, who made a surprise appearance at Comic-Con today, breaking the news to audiences there, later said, “I’m so excited to begin working again with Henry Cavill in the world we created, and I can’t wait to expand the DC Universe in this next chapter. Let’s face it, it’s beyond mythological to have Superman and our new Batman facing off, since they are the greatest Super Heroes in the world.”The new film brings back Charles Roven and Deborah Snyder as producers. This time, Christopher Nolan and Emma Thomas are serving as executive producers, along with Benjamin Melniker and Michael E. Uslan.Thomas offered, “Whilst our Dark Knight trilogy is complete, we have every confidence that Zack’s fresh interpretation will take the character in a new and exciting direction. His vision for Superman opened the door to a whole new universe and we can’t wait to see what Zack does with these characters.” The film is based on Superman characters created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, and Batman characters created by Bob Kane, published by DC Entertainment.

DC Comics Mock Marvel In MAN OF STEEL! Here Is My Movie Review: 9.5 Stars!! One Minor Spoiler...

That's right, DC comics mocked Marvel in MAN OF STEEL and I believe it was intentional! :-) Of course everyone who watches the movie will see the scene I am talking about. But will it dawn on you that may have recently seen this same scene in THE AVENGERS? I'm talking about when one of General Zod's accomplices jumps on the canopy of a jet smashing and ripping it open. Remember the scene in the avengers when the Hulk jumps on a jet's canopy and does the exact same thing? So Marvel fans, are you take this sitting down? Zack Snyder's inclusion of the scene was not necessary and I believe was put in to show that the natives of Krypton have just as much godlike strength as Marvel's strongest character, but in Superman's case, that's just one of his abilities. Or is it not all that important to you? Let me know in the comments. In my view, DC has slapped Marvel with a fairly sizable gauntlet.

But other than that smack in the face of Marvel fans, I really loved the movie. Christopher Nolan and  David S. Goyer did an amazing job of putting together an origin story for what is arguably the greatest comic book hero of all time. Not an easy task to be sure. Was it perfect? No. But it was exactly what Warner Bros. and DC comics needed: A relevant, timely well-written, well executed movie for Superman fans.

Let's talk about what's near and dear to my heart, 3D. For those of you who don't know Zack Snyder Warner Bros. and DC comics selected Legend 3D for the conversion and let me tell you it was a great decision. If there was any doubt before there isn't now: Of the top-tier 3-D conversion houses there are only two that are now in Tier A in my opinion: Stereo D and Legend 3D. And from what we've seen lately, Legend 3D is the best in the world. This time last year I would've told you Stereo D was on the top with that magnificent project, THE AVENGERS. But subsequent conversion work from them in the past 12 months have not been stellar (IRON MAN 3 for example). Which brings me to Legend 3D. They turned a lot of heads with the 3D conversion of TOP GUN and now with MAN OF STEEL. They are wielding their amazing talents with greater and greater prowess.

Everything about the movie was just about perfectly converted – I can only see one trouble spot and I had to try hard to find that. There was one shot, looking through windowpane with the weathervane in the background and the reflection on the window was not quite believable as the camera moved. So was I happy with the 3-D? Absolutely almost flawless. I still would've loved to see MAN OF STEEL in native 3-D, don't get me wrong (and that's why its 3D didn't score as high as say THE GREAT GATSBY), but believe me when I say this, the 3D is amazing, especially action scenes with those jaw-dropping visual effects.


I thought the casting was bang on. I've never been a fan of Amy Adams, but I must admit she's a great actress. I just don't see her as a leading lady, but more of a character actor. Sort of like a Bruce Greenwood. But Henry Cavell is Superman. There is no doubt and for the record, I like him better than Christopher Reeve. There is a vulnerability that Cavell has that Reeve lacked. He is perfectly cast, which was oh so important for DC comics to get right. Michael Shannon was spectacular and I can go on listing everyone that was cast in the movie regurgitating superlatives over and over again, but I think you get the drift.

Now let's talk story. Here's where some mistakes were made, not huge glaring mistakes, but of note. The overwhelming thing that bothered me most was that Snyder had the opportunity to truly delve into the human aspects of the movie: The pain. The emotion. The character building. He didn't go far enough!! It was superficial and begged for more. I don't have to spell out all these moments in the movie, you'll see it too. He doesn't have the camera linger long enough... didn't have the characters go deep enough... didn't allow their human emotions to come to life the way they should have.

But human aspects aside, it was very well written and certainly provides the foundation for strong Superman franchise for the studios. If DC comics can nail couple more key characters (THE FLASH PLEASE!!) and add them to Superman and Batman in JUSTICE LEAGUE, then we can finally have what most comic book fans have been hoping for since the beginning: Marvel versus DC battling it out for superhero supremacy at the cinema. Christopher Nolan's impact on this movie was definitely detected by me. Some of the darker scenes in the origins had his touch, the flashes of memory, using time as a storytelling tool and the pounding and inspiring score of Hans Zimmer.

But this is Zack Snyder's baby and I am truly impressed. Yes, he had a huge budget, but he has proven himself to be an innovative filmmaker and was certainly worth the gamble. Now Warner Bros. has a true franchise on their hands with a strong base to build from.

I've seen MAN OF STEEL twice now. Once in IMAX 3-D and once an Empire theaters soundstage screen [Empire extra]. I must admit I liked it better the second time around. The first time seemed a little bit disjointed, but the second viewing, helped solidify the experience.

If you haven't seen the movie yet, definitely go and see it on the largest screen possible and in 3-D. This is one of those movies you have to see in the theater and in three dimensions. Just do it. And if you're a Marvel fan you just going to have to grin and bear it when the jet hopping scene happens. I know I did!

Man of steel is now playing.

Special thanks to Empire theaters for my screening. As usual, the lighting, sound, and service were impeccable.

Last Trailer For MAN OF STEEL - Hints At 3D Results!

Check out what will surely be the last trailer before the launch of MAN OF STEEL. We see some new clips here and there and it is all resoundingly held together with the magic of Hans Zimmer.

I see some amazing opportunity here for some great stereoscopic 3D depth shots, some very, very inventive - especially on Krypton. Watch and I think you'll see them too. One shot reminded me of AVATAR when Neyteri and Jake were up a tree and she introduces him to the Ikran flying beasts. She lifts off on hers and drops straight down. The camera work and the angles reminds me of a shot here in this trailer - try and find it! :-) Gives me great hope for a technically proficient movie that was intricately planned for 3D, conversion or not. Here's hoping they deliver!

Here's the movie's storyline:
In the pantheon of superheroes, Superman is the most recognized and revered character of all time. Clark Kent/Kal-El (Cavill) is a young twenty-something journalist who feels alienated by powers beyond anyone’s imagination. Transported to Earth years ago from Krypton, an advanced alien planet, Clark struggles with the ultimate question – Why am I here? Shaped by the values of his adoptive parents Martha (Lane) and Jonathan Kent (Costner), Clark soon discovers that having super abilities means making very difficult decisions. But when the world needs stability the most, it comes under attack. Will his abilities be used to maintain peace or ultimately used to divide and conquer? Clark must become the hero known as “Superman,” not only to shine as the world’s last beacon of hope but to protect the ones he loves.

MAN OF STEEL opens June 14 in 3D!

MUST WATCH!! 13m Featurette For MAN OF STEEL - Answers Many Questions!! **PLUS 2 New TV Spots AND A Major DC Universe Spoiler!!

es! An amazing 13m behind the scenes AND new clips from MAN OF STEEL in this featurette and we have 2 new TV Spots! Moreover, it answers questions that have been haunting Superman fans since the first trailer was revealed. Questions like how is the origins story being tackled? Why are they making the choices they are making? Why are the underwear outside of Superman's suit gone?

And by the way, even if you don't watch the featurette (and I believe you should), I happen to love their answers!

The spoiler is further down, read it if you dare.

Here is the storyline for the movie:
In the pantheon of superheroes, Superman is the most recognized and revered character of all time. Clark Kent/Kal-El (Cavill) is a young twenty-something journalist who feels alienated by powers beyond anyone’s imagination. Transported to Earth years ago from Krypton, an advanced alien planet, Clark struggles with the ultimate question – Why am I here? Shaped by the values of his adoptive parents Martha (Lane) and Jonathan Kent (Costner), Clark soon discovers that having super abilities means making very difficult decisions. But when the world needs stability the most, it comes under attack. Will his abilities be used to maintain peace or ultimately used to divide and conquer? Clark must become the hero known as “Superman,” not only to shine as the world’s last beacon of hope but to protect the ones he loves.

And if you're interested in a major DC Comics universe spoiler that is in MAN OF STEEL, then highlight the white are below this line for the details. WARNING THIS IS A MAJOR SPOILER for the DC universe:

HIGHLIGHT BELOW FOR SPOILER:
Director Zach Snyder revealed on May 31 the following: "The Wayne Enterprises logo is on a satellite that Zod destroys." When asked about whether he'd like to team Superman up with Batman, his reply was: "I don’t know. Everything is interesting at this point. And don’t forget that Lex is out there, doing who knows what…"
END SPOILER








And an added bonus - if you are curious as to how Superman was able to shave (yes, this is a valid question for Superman fans (and a bit funny) - anything about him should be indestructible *on Earth anyway*!) click here to find out!

MAN OF STEEL flies into theaters on June 14. This is going to be a HUGE opening folks, plan for it!!

Spoiler via Collider

WHOA! Must Watch: Last MAN OF STEEL Trailer Drops!!

Wow - very nice. I'm hoping for an excellent 3D conversion here because, let's face it - this is Superman. I'm impressed with how the story is filling in and the how realistic the scenes look. Truly hyped about MAN OF STEEL!

Hear General Zod's (Michael Shannon) ultimatum to Kal-El (Superman)! This is going to be amazing...

Here's the storyline for the movie:
In the pantheon of superheroes, Superman is the most recognized and revered character of all time. Clark Kent/Kal-El (Cavill) is a young twenty-something journalist who feels alienated by powers beyond anyone’s imagination. Transported to Earth years ago from Krypton, an advanced alien planet, Clark struggles with the ultimate question – Why am I here? Shaped by the values of his adoptive parents Martha (Lane) and Jonathan Kent (Costner), Clark soon discovers that having super abilities means making very difficult decisions. But when the world needs stability the most, it comes under attack. Will his abilities be used to maintain peace or ultimately used to divide and conquer? Clark must become the hero known as “Superman,” not only to shine as the world’s last beacon of hope but to protect the ones he loves.

MAN OF STEEL opens on June 14.

Check the trailer:

MUST WATCH: New MAN OF STEEL Trailer - A Wake Up Call For Marvel

DC Comics and Warner Bros are FINALLY flexing their muscles with potentially the greatest superhero ever created in what seems to be a movie that does the character and the Krypton universe justice.

Has Zach Snyder pulled it off? Has Chris Nolan now seen what is possible with 3D? Is this the best standalone (non-ensemble) superhero movie ever made? There is a lot riding on this film. Superman is without a doubt the most valuable commodity DC Comics has and the keystone in the upcoming Justice League ensemble movie that's planned. Make no mistake, Warner Bros and Snyder CANNOT mess this up. Failure is not an option.

I'm the first to admit I've always been a Marvel guy - except for Superman. He transcends any kind of brand allegiance - he simply is... singular.

This trailer hints at the greatness that is needed. The opening Krypton scenes with Russell Crowe as Jor-El look AMAZING. The young Clark Kent scenes look authentic and viable. The Henry Cavill scenes look very, very good. Still not sure if he can top Christopher Reeve, but heck it's looking good. It's always hard to beat the first actor in a role. Just ask any James Bond since Sean Connery.

I think MAN OF STEEL should be a wake up call for Marvel. There is valid competition now. More than that, this is Superman. Marvel can't trip up now. DC is finally revving up.

What do you guys think? I love the score so far by the way!

Here's the storyline for the movie:
In the pantheon of superheroes, Superman is the most recognized and revered character of all time. Clark Kent/Kal-El (Cavill) is a young twentysomething journalist who feels alienated by powers beyond anyone’s imagination. Transported to Earth years ago from Krypton, an advanced alien planet, Clark struggles with the ultimate question – Why am I here? Shaped by the values of his adoptive parents Martha (Lane) and Jonathan Kent (Costner), Clark soon discovers that having super abilities means making very difficult decisions. But when the world needs stability the most, it comes under attack. Will his abilities be used to maintain peace or ultimately used to divide and conquer? Clark must become the hero known as “Superman,” not only to shine as the world’s last beacon of hope but to protect the ones he loves.

MAN OF STEEL opens on June 14.

MAN OF STEEL's Cover Shot With Empire

You can expect much, much more hoopla around Zach Snyder's MAN OF STEEL in the coming months - clearly it's going to be a spectacle and is definitely on my most anticipated 3D movies for 2013.

Check the magazine cover that graces Henry Cavill as Supe himself. It'll be on shelves this Thursday.

Here's the storyline for the movie:
In the pantheon of superheroes, Superman is the most recognized and revered character of all time. Clark Kent/Kal-El (Cavill) is a young twentysomething journalist who feels alienated by powers beyond anyone’s imagination. Transported to Earth years ago from Krypton, an advanced alien planet, Clark struggles with the ultimate question – Why am I here? Shaped by the values of his adoptive parents Martha (Lane) and Jonathan Kent (Costner), Clark soon discovers that having super abilities means making very difficult decisions. But when the world needs stability the most, it comes under attack. Will his abilities be used to maintain peace or ultimately used to divide and conquer? Clark must become the hero known as “Superman,” not only to shine as the world’s last beacon of hope but to protect the ones he loves.

MAN OF STEEL opens on June 14. What do you think? Can Cavill pull it off?

Source: Empire

YES!! MAN OF STEEL Definitely Going 3D! And IMAX Too!!

You have GOT to love this 3D conversion confirmation! All along I have said that if DC / Warner Bros want to compete with Marvel / Disney then they have go 3D. I can just imagine the flack they got from Christopher Nolan about this decision (who is producing), but hats off to them, they made the right call.

Remember MAN OF STEEL helps set up expectations for JUSTICE LEAGUE too. It's imperative that they get all their ducks in a row for the DC universe and doing 3D now just makes sense. Heck BATMAN should have been 3D too, but certain creative differences do exist from time to time.

Hit the jump to read what director Zack Snyder had to say about it:

It's JUSTICE LEAGUE Vs THE AVENGERS 2!! Huge Faceoff In '15!!!

Summer releases? Could be! Warner Bros. is planning on unleashing their dark and mature JUSTICE LEAGUE in 2015 which just so happens to be Marvel's planned THE AVENGERS 2 release year.

Think this is a minor deal? Think again. THE AVENGERS made $1.5 BILLION at the bank thus far and are now cashing in on disc sales heading into Black Friday territory and Christmas. Christopher Nolan is producing Zack Snyder's MAN OF STEEL as well as relishing in the success of this summer's THE DARK KNIGHT RISES. Think there isn't any bad taste in Joss Whedon's mouth after Pfister ridiculous comments recently?

So why isn't Nolan taking part in this battle of cinematic proportions? Perhaps it's because Warner Bros. really needs JUSTICE LEAGUE to be in 3D and the Nolan/Pfister combo can't quite bite into it. Yet. I can't imagine WB allowing JUSTICE LEAGUE to suffer from a 2D only release while THE AVENGERS 2 rakes in another one and a half billion dollars.

So who will WB bring in to helm the awesome emsemble? Not Ben Affleck apparently. So who? Regardless, 2015 looks to be a stellar year.




Source: LATimes

MUST WATCH: New Teaser Trailer For MAN OF STEEL!

Warner Bros. has released a new teaser trailer for MAN OF STEEL and it - looks - AMAZING. I saw it last night too pre-rolling in front of THE DARK KNIGHT RISES. Zach Snyder is directing and we know him to be a very capable helmsman, but throw in Producer Christopher Nolan and it really starts to pick up some unique energy, perhaps like no other movie we've ever seen. Marvel has every right to look over their shoulder at this movie because if it connects like I think it will, then DC and Warner's are on their way back into the superhero genre in a big way. Justice League anyone? Imagine a JL movie helmed by Nolan. It might be the only way to get back in the director's chair for another superhero movie. One of it's targets? Best THE AVENGERS. Not an easy task.

I LOVE how Snyder is using Clark Kent as a fisherman in this thing. It's a new spin and it works. The soundtrack and editing on this thing are going to be impeccable. Henry Cavill is looking great so far in the role - that casting HAD to work and it seems to be.

This teaser is narrated by Kevin Costner. There is actually a second trailer out there too with the exact same content, except it is narrated by Russell Crowe.

Now, a small note that Warner Bros. still hasn't confirmed the post production of MAN OF STEEL in 3D, but for me - it's a no-brainer. Look at the success Marvel is having with the genre and the studio would be daft to not follow that model. Sure you could look at Nolan and the work that he's done with Batman without 3D, but do NOT kid yourself, his movies would gross much more and be all that much more enjoyable to legions of fans with immersive 3D. It's a perfect match for superhero movies that have been proven over and over again with Marvel. Even IMAX had listed MAN OF STEEL as being an IMAX 3D movie until Warners told them to take it down.

Clearly Nolan's fingerprints are ALL of over this movie - even Hans Zimmer is scoring it rather than Snyder's usual accomplice, Tyler Bates. The big question here is just how far will the money (Warner Bros.) and the true creative talent (Snyder) allow a Producer to wield. It's well known that Nolan is anti-3D and is quite evangelistic about it. 

Apparently Nolan hasn't met anyone who enjoys 3D! I guess that makes Nolan pretty lonely in Hollywood, never talking with his peers like oh say: Martin Scorsese, Ridley Scott, James Cameron, Ang Lee, Peter Jackson, Bryan Singer, Steven Spielberg, Henry Selick, Robert Zemeckis, Joseph Kosinski, Rob Marshall, Tim Burton, Michael Bay, Alfonso Cuaron, Baz Luhrmann, Wim Wenders, Jean Luc Goddard, Werner Herzog and the list goes on. However I have to say if he is a traditionalist as he seems to be (sticking with film and no 3D), then I believe he should leave the creativity to his hired creative talent and not interfere at such a fundamental level. Clearly he is practically alone in Hollywood and to me that is not understanding a market very effectively. Man, I would have LOVED to have seen BB, TDK and TDKR in 3D. Multiple times I might add.

Here's the movie's storyline:
Henry Cavill plays Superman in director Zack Snyder's "Man of Steel." The film also stars Amy Adams as Daily Planet journalist Lois Lane, and Laurence Fishburne as her editor-in-chief, Perry White. Starring as Clark Kent's adoptive parents, Martha and Jonathan Kent, are Diane Lane and Kevin Costner.

Squaring off against the superhero are two other surviving Kryptonians, the villainous General Zod, played by Michael Shannon, and Faora, Zod's evil partner, played by Antje Traue. Also from Superman's native Krypton are Lara Lor-Van, Superman's mother, played by Ayelet Zurer, and Superman's father, Jor-El, portrayed by Russell Crowe. Rounding out the cast are Harry Lennix as U.S. military man General Swanwick, as well as Christopher Meloni as Colonel Hardy.

Here's the movie's official site. Want more photos?

Stay tuned for more! Can't wait to see this in 3D...

Photo: EW
Thanks: James Stewart

It Must Be Geek Day Today: THE HOBBIT Stays In NZ; BATMAN 3 Gets A Name AND AVATAR 2 And 3 Spooling Up!!

What else does October 27, 2010 have in store for us guys?

- First of all I awoke to an email from a friend of mine pointing to a BBC story that Peter Jackson's THE HOBBIT is officially staying in New Zealand for shooting! YES!

- Then I heard that Christopher Nolan's BATMAN 3 will be named THE DARK KNIGHT RISES from Hero Complex (via AICN) and that there will be NO RIDDLER. In fact Geoff Boucher postulates that it could be an expanded story for Two-Face. Hmmm. Interesting read. No 3D, but still geek worthy to be sure. Upset? Look, if Warner Bros wants to throw away at least 25% more box office and what I think is a superior product, then so be it. I am just glad the movie is getting made. No need to talk further about it on MarketSaw now though, unless it becomes a conversion project - Nolan/Pfister would have to shoot with this in mind though, so I am NOT holding my breath.

- To top it all off of course, James Cameron and Fox officially announce that AVATAR 2 and 3 will be Cameron's next gigs!

What else could possibly happen today? How about something more from the Marvel or DC universe? C'mon guys! Today of all days - don't let us down!! :-)

OPINION: BATMAN 3 In 3D - Is Warner's Forcing Nolan's hand?

As we have already conjectured, word (hollywoodinhidef) on the street is that Warner Bros. will force Christopher Nolan to shoot or convert BATMAN 3 to 3D (via denofgeek). Not really a surprise but it does echo what my Filmmakers Panel and I discussed at THE 3D EXPERIENCE this past week in New York.

We talked about how James Cameron got it right when he suggested that filmmakers had their chance to own the creative end of this whole 3D toolkit and take projects to the studios, but now it is actually working in reverse: Studios are forcing filmmakers to shoot in 3D.

We also touched on the need for some Directors of Photography to bring in Stereographers and 3D services companies who can "hit the ground running". You would be right in assuming many egos can get bruised quite easily.

Hollywood is no different than any other evolving industry in the world.

Personally I don't think the issue lies with Nolan. I think the issue lies with Wally Pfister who is known to have blatantly bashed 3D. Regardless of whether they shoot native 3D or convert it (and it will be in 3D, no mistake about it), BATMAN 3 will have to be planned to be in 3D. Is Pfister up to the task? I imagine so - he is a very talented individual and I love his 2D work without exception. I just find it interesting that Nolan and Pfister have allowed 3D to envelop them to the point where it appears they are actually not enjoying the privilege of the work.

On the other hand, Nolan and Pfister could come out of the blocks with heads held high and tackle BATMAN 3D with all the bravado that they have earned. I sincerely hope that this is the case. Having a filmmaker like Nolan on board is a huge step forward just as it was with Cameron, Spielberg, Burton, Bay, Snyder, Soderbergh, Scott, Scorsese and Herzog.

Remember when I asked Michael Bay about 3D and he turned it down for TRANSFORMERS 2 as not appropriate and said 3D might be a gimmick? Well he is shooting TF3 in native 3D right now (our exclusive). And not just going through the motions either - he is belting this one out of the park! Here is what Lorenzo di Bonaventura (TF Producer) had to say (via iamrogue): "We are shooting in 3D and what Michael is gonna do with 3D is gonna blow people’s minds. It is incredibly dynamic because he is not compromising his shooting style. And what I’ve seen so far in 3D has locked off cameras, and Michael is not locking off any cameras. It’s exciting!"

I am confident that as straggling directors add 3D to their toolbelt they will become more and more enamored with it as Bay has seemingly become. I welcome the Nolan/Pfister team to 3D with open arms because who knows what sort of phenomenal creations they will come up with? My anticipation of BATMAN in 3D is through the roof.

Further, DC has to try and stay on top of Marvel's box office right? With THE AVENGERS ramping up, Warners and DC can't afford to fool around. Bring it on!

Nolan's DP Wally Pfister Puts His Foot In His Mouth. In 3D No Less.

Wally Pfister, director of photography for Christopher Nolan on THE DARK KNIGHT and INCEPTION, obviously he knows what he is doing, right? Well yes, in 2D anyway. A genius even in 2D.

When Pfister compares modern 3D to a viewmaster and to IMAX, either he is being extremely ignorant of just what modern stereoscopic 3D is or he is just being abrasive? Perhaps he is getting hot under the collar because he has to answer so many questions to do with the subject. Who knows for sure?

Obviously a viewmaster is a VERY layered device. To throw all of modern 3D into that small box is indeed quite ignorant. Films shot in native 3D like AVATAR and TRON: LEGACY are far from looking through a viewmaster and are revolutionary movies that should be revered as trailblazers, not a child's toy. Perhaps he was speaking to solely 3d conversions and in that case he may have a slight semblance of a point. Pfister does not specify what brand of 3D,- so naturally the lay reader will throw them all together into just 3D. Shameful. This coming from a professional cinematographer no less.

3D vs. IMAX? Again an ignorant statement. They are not competing formats whatsoever! In fact quite often IMAX movies are shown in 3D and the two are very much intertwined. Pfister says: "I must say I'm a huge IMAX fan. I like IMAX more than I like 3-D." Is he actually trying to get consumers to think that if they like IMAX they shouldn't like 3D? Shameful.

BATMAN 3 will be a 3D movie guys. I don't know this for sure of course, but quite frankly I like how James Cameron words it (paraphrasing): It is in reverse somewhat now. It should be that filmmakers are approaching the studios with their reasons for making a movie in 3D, but in many cases today the studios are demanding 3D. In other words, DPs and directors have been sitting on the fence and not taking action to pick up 3D preemptively. Now they are suffering the consequences and are fighting the tide. Too late.

So it will be with Warner Bros. vs. Wally Pfister. Who do you think will emerge the victor? Consider that Warner Bros. is betting the bank on 3D and that all future tentpoles will be made in stereo. Who pays for the whole shot? Not Pfister. Consumers want 3D - they have spoken through an open marketplace.

If I were Wally Pfister, I would start embracing 3D as a valid medium. I would be careful what I say in public. When he said "Are you really getting more out of the story with 3-D? When you separate those different planes and you’re creating artificial depth, it looks phony to me.", do you think he knows what he is talking about? Is he talking about conversions (bad ones at that) or native 3D? Why is he not clearly defining the difference for the lay person? He must not have seen AVATAR as there was nothing phony about how Cameron was able to draw us into the movie through 3D.

If I were Wally Pfister, I would go get some 3D schooling no matter how embarrassing it would be with his experience. 3D is here, it is staying and will continue to dominate. Get over it. At least Christopher Nolan is much more diplomatic about it and sees what the end game really is: He will be creating a 3D movie at some point in the future.

I find it shameful that posts like this need to be written at all. When movie professionals stop spewing fear, uncertainty and doubt to the general public, I guess I can relent then. I count Pfister right up there with Roger Ebert. Congratulations on that Wally.

Why INCEPTION Should Have Been Made In Native 3D

*Minor Spoilers*

I don't know about you guys but I loved INCEPTION. I saw it twice this weekend and may take it in again soon. It is hard to take it all in with only one or two screenings so a third screening is more than likely for me.

But it could have been even better. Don't get me wrong, I am not complaining. I think Christopher Nolan's achievement with the film is one of Hollywood's definitive moments in history. But in all seriousness he could have knocked this one out of the park with 3D.

How would INCEPTION be improved with 3D? The superb slow motion sequences, the zero gravity and 360 degree fight scenes, the various architect's environment manipulations, the chase scenes, the list goes on. 3D would have brought us into their dream states all that much more. It would have been spectacular to see the streets of Paris flip upside down in 3D and see that illusion of depth in the outdoor mirror scene.

What would have suffered or not existed at all in 3D? Parts of the movie just would not work in 3D, like the shaky cam scenes or the extremely fast cut fight sequences. Nolan could have still worked those bits in though using longer takes and less emphasis on shaky cam for realism and more on immersion. It would have worked.

Will Nolan work in 3D in the future? Yes. I don't think he has a choice - especially with his relationship with Warner Bros. who are embracing 3D wholeheartedly. It is the future of cinema.

Nolan's recent stance on 3D has been: "We did tests on 'Inception' with the different post-conversion processes, and they all went very well," Nolan told the crowd during a Q&A. "It's quite easy to do, in fact. But it takes a little time, and we didn't have time to do it to the standards that I would be happy with."

"There is no question if audiences want to watch films in stereoscopic imaging, that's what the studios will be doing, and that's what I'll be doing."

Michael Bay has no choice either. That's why TRANSFORMERS 3 will be in 3D. It is happening now whether you planned on it or not. Audiences have spoken. Both Bay and Nolan prefer to work in 35mm but with 3D pushing harder and harder, combined with the backlash against 3D conversion (which 35mm mandates) you will see both of these men start to work with digital. I don't think they will settle for 3D conversion at this point though. As that technology improves they will adjust but for now I think they will want native 3D.

In the end, I am still very satisfied with the movie. I still shake my head at times in the movie, thinking "what if" but it is a thoroughly enjoyable movie.

I Will Second That Rumor Of Chris Columbus Directing SUPERMAN And Raise You S3D!

I was just about to post a pure rumor that I have received about SUPERMAN while on vacation from a brand new source for us but then I read a post over on supermanhomepage passing on roughly the same info. I have to apologize to my source because he did get me this information back on July 7 but I had no Internet access to capitalize on it.

However my source passed on rumored information that has not come to light yet: Chris Columbus has actually already been HIRED (and not just offered) the role of director for the upcoming SUPERMAN movie being produced by Christopher Nolan and WB is moving forward with a stereoscopic 3D man of steel for this project!

No word from Warner Bros. on either count but they have got to get their DC comic library into high gear to stay relatively close with competing Marvel properties. Exciting rumor though isn't it?