A Disappointing Step into the 3rd Dimension

11th Apr '09 by Andy

I - like so many - grew up in the era that just missed the first outing into 3D (phew) and so eagerly awaited the second incarnation of all encompassing entertainment with the technology to back it up. Before anyone says anything I am aware I am a grown adult but that will never stop me on some level actually being a child – a trip to the cinema is definitely one of those occasions. Anyway back to the film, the show was Monsters vs Aliens 3D (still aware it’s a kid’s film) in REAL D 3D (no idea what that means either).

Firstly the film – a good kids picture – no more, I would’ve enjoyed it if I was 8, unfortunately I’m not and it’s not got the imagination or wit we have come to expect from so many computer animated films from the Dreamworks / Pixar studios, with the likes of Monsters Inc, Shrek, Finding Nemo, Toy Story to name but a few. Although there are a few moments which will wash straight over your kids head, and bring about a wry smile.

Now let me move onto the real reason I’m writing this – the lacklustre 3D. For my mind to charge the extra they seem to believe they can add on to the ticket price, the film must make use of the extra dimension, this film does not. The most impressive moment to make use of the visual improvement are the trailers by Disney at the beginning [who appear to be firmly running with the 3D film genre] with some eye popping moments as things fly out of the screen, after this there is nothing that will even make you flinch at the screen.

Finally, my whole downer on this “new innovation” was based on a showing under the REAL D 3D brand cinema screen I am yet to see one of the new era of 3D films on an IMAX screen and am prepared to bet that this may greatly improve the film quality and will undoubtedly increase the 3D element exponentially.

So my take would be I-MAX is the only way to watch!