3D - How useful is it currently?

By Jason Wright (Entertainment Expert)

IN RECENT years, 3D has been more widespread than before.  It is a clear case that this is the future of television and film but the question is how useful is it really and is it the right time now to have it in place.

     The 3D transition began in early 2009 when cinemas began to screen movies, mostly animation or with CGI technology, in the digital picture.  As with the original form of the dimension, audiences need to wear a pair of glasses to watch the presentation or risk being fazed by a blurry screen.  Although this technology has driven more people into cinemas than before, the 3D effect has yet to be seen properly with only the mega 2009 adventure Avatar being successful in digital 3D.  Despite this, cinema advertisers are still putting in their faith by beginning to pay more for transferring their advertisements into the 3D picture.

     As for 3D television, this began by the launches of 3DTV sets last summer.  At first, this could only be used for Blu-ray discs with a 3D disc copy but in October, BSkyB jumped on the 3D bandwagon by launching Sky 3D.  The service is commonly used to simulcast sports events and movies in the format.  However, this effect only works in dark light, making the service seem pointless and confusing most times.

DODGY: It hasn't been a great start for the Nintendo 3DS

     Gaming has recently begun moving into 3D.  Nintendo launched the first console in 3D, the 3DS, based on their popular DS handheld.  It claims to portray 3D images without the need for glasses but this just doesn’t seem to work half the time.  Several people have called for refunds as it makes them feel unwell.  It won’t be too long however, until the next generation of consoles are released utilizing 3D technology.

     The answer to whether 3D is useful today in technology can’t be a straightforward answer.  However, it depends whether it is capable with the technology in hand.  Maybe we have to give 3D a year or two more at least before we can see whether this is the future of technology.

Avatar Movie Review

It may not have had the success in the awards ceremonies at the Oscars and the BAFTA's like Slumdog Millionaire, but Avatar has turned into one of the biggest hits in the box office of all time.


Here is a brief review of the movie - written by good friend of mine, former Media production student at Milton Keynes College and movie critic, Charlie Gardiner


AVATAR MOVIE REVIEW


BY CHARLIE GARDINER


Director: James Cameron
Written by: James Cameron
Staring: Sigourney Weaver, Zoe Saldana, Sam Worthington

Where do you start when it comes to writing a reviews on films made to this standard?

Cameron has completely changed his expected genre of romantic tragedies and dived into the world of imagination with his “two-worlds colliding” epic.  He has explored the two philosophies of second chances and reasons for things happening.

The film begins with the half-paralysed, ex-marine, Jake Sully looking over the body of his late scientist twin brother, and then finding out that if he takes his brothers place on trip to the legendary land of Pandora, he might have the opportunity to re-gain the ability to walk.  The film explores all aspects of the world and the different characters colliding.

Sigourney Weaver gives an unforgettable performance playing the roll of Grace, who knows everything there is to know about the natives of Pandora called the Na’avi.  She has dedicated her life to the study of their lifestyle and due to this flight over to Pandora, she has been granted the opportunity to connect with them and teach them new ways of living.  Throughout the film you find out a lot more about why the marines have gone to Pandora and what they are after. 


Zoe Saldana’s portrayal of the Na’avi princess is undeniably phenomenal.  She creates a life-form never seen or imagined before and does it so beautifully.  The artistry to create the world of Pandora is beyond magical.  The colours and landscapes used make it so believable and imaginable and helps the audience connect with the Na’avi and understand their love for their planet and home.

All in all, James Cameron has done a phenomenal job bringing the mythological land of Pandora to life and deserves to be remembered for it in many years to come in cinema history.  He did an incredible job with his casting to create it as “un-Hollywood” as possible and I think the most inspired performance comes from Weaver.  She is just incredible. 


Not a bad word can be said against this masterpiece.