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.

3D Shorts: Quick Updates - NBA Goes For The 3, "Oceans 3D", "Under The Sea 3D"

Jim here. Here are some quick updates for what is happening in the world of 3D:

- Get ready for NBA All-Star Saturday Night: With PACE providing the 3D technology and services, look for tomorrow night's NBA specialty events to have another thrilling participant - YOU. There will be five 3D cameras with two directors working as a team - one directing the best shots and the other concerned about 3D. Look for the events (including the slam dunk contest and 3 point shooting) on TNT and in 3D theaters near you. Will have an update for you this weekend!

- OCEANS 3D: INTO THE DEEP: the first feature-length docu-fiction film shot entirely in Digital 3D, is a tribute to the ocean. This movie is presented by Jean-Michel Cousteau (Yes - Jacques' son, but has earned fame in his own right), so expect the best content you can imagine. 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. OCEANS 3D remains slated for release in 2009. The official launch date is still to be determined. Wild Bunch has acquired the film rights for all territories excluding Canada and USA.

- UNDER THE SEA 3D Opens Tonight: Not feature length and only 40 minutes (and that is why it is not listed on my List Of Upcoming 3D Movies) but still very entertaining. This IMAX documentary's journey starts at the Coral Triangle in Papua New Guinea, then Cape Catastrophe in South Australia and finally, where else but the Great Barrier Reef! I will be checking this out.

I have said this before: Stereoscopic 3D works WONDERFULLY WELL underwater. It is because there are things you expect to be floating in front of you and 3D captures that very well. It will seem like you are really there, underwater with those divers.Enjoy!