02/16/2009

Wow! That’s all that can be said about the difference between the 3-D I remember and what I witnessed in the new animated feature Coraline.

I don’t go to the movies very often because I, like a lot of people, prefer to be able to absorb a film. So, this story, brought to life by the director of one of my favourite’s, The Nightmare Before Christmas, captivated me. I honestly had no idea they were using this new 3-D technology in so many new films.

Trust me, the old blue and red glasses don’t make the cut, unless you’re feeling nostalgic. They were awesome at the time and I enjoyed quite a few movies with those fashion statements on but the new glasses, which are the ultimate in black-rimmed plastic with clear-looking lenses, bring every detail to life. They also fit easily over my own glasses, which is a plus.

The best example of the 3-D is in the opening sequence where you swear the needle stitching Coraline’s doll points square in your face and moves off and over your right shoulder. The other thing I found so impressive with the technology is the amount of depth of field created. No more two to three popping elements, it’s all popping off the screen and I found myself exploring the background of this amazing world as much as watching the foreground action.

Wonderful movie, a bit scary for some kids but, overall, completely worth seeing.

P.S. Friday the 13th is also unbelievable but it didn’t receive the 3-D treatment… Not that it really needed it. :)