Upcoming Films in 3D

After the mind-blowing success of Avatar, movie studios are rushing to pump out 3D adventure movies and audiences are waiting with open arms. Director Louis Leterrier re-shot several action scenes on 3D film stock for his upcoming swords-and-sandals fantasy Clash of the Titans. Warner Bros. is hoping the film will quench the public thirst for another immersive 3D film-going experience. Because of its hefty budget ($70 mil) and the fact that it shares the star of Avatar (Sam Worthington), Clash, being released Apr 2, 2010, is the favorite for box-office success. It isn't the only movie getting a boost from 3D. Other upcoming films are planning to get a slice of that 3D pie.

Tron Legacy (Dec 17, 2010)
The original Tron was released only one year after the original Clash of the Titans in 1982. At the time, Tron was a technological wonder, usually credited with the first extensive use of computer graphics. Beyond that, the graphics were supplied greatly by Pixar. It's fitting that the sequel will be on the next cutting generation of film special effects. The movie also brings back the original hero played by Jeff Bridges. Good timing too. Bridges is getting international attention as the favorite for this year's Academy Award for Best Actor for his work in Crazy Heart.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Nov 11, 2010)
RealD, the 3D process used to give Avatar its wonderful depth was tested on the first twenty minutes of the previous Harry Potter movie. It apparently worked because the two part Deathly Hallows films will both be released in RealD on IMAX. After the vast script improvement of the sixth Potter film, the series is still heading skyward, raking in money hand over fist. Now, Potter fans will get the treat of seeing their favorite spells and wondrous locations pop from the screen, adding to the magical wonder already present.

Shrek Forever After (May 21, 2010)
The green ogre is still a money-maker, even if the quality of films nose-dived with the latest installment. The realm of Ever After might get the boost it needs from 3D, making colors pop in the audience's face and dragons swoop overhead, infusing those action scenes with a much needed kinetic energy. Dreamworks is taking Shrek to the next level. In fact, the guy in charge of 3D effects for Dreamworks officially changed his middle name to "Captain 3D." Even though a pretty film and enthusiasm don't always make a good film, they can't hurt.

How to Train Your Dragon (Mar. 26, 2010)
Dreamworks Studios can't get enough 3D. Their second animated film of the year, after Shrek Ever After, also involves fantasy and dragons. This one looks more kid-friendly, without all the subtle adult innuendo of the Shrek films, and another good fit for 3D.

Alice in Wonderland (Mar 5, 2010)
Tim Burton and Johnny Depp team up for the seventh time to make the familiar Wonderland unfamiliar. Tim Burton seems a natural candidate to try 3D. He's used to taking risks and has a flair for visual treats. The film looks odd and creepy. Those may be good things in 3D.

Toy Story 3 (June 18, 2010)
Big daddy Pixar Animation Studios, hero of the animation film word, throws its hat in the 3D ring...finally. Pixar decided to start their exploration of 3D film stock with a cast of familiar characters, Woody, Buzz, Peep, Mr. Potatohead, etc. Pixar, the pioneers of 3D computer animation, seem like they got a late start in the 3D projection arena, but who cares: they've arrived. It's like waiting an hour for your favorite guest to show up to a party. Sure you may be angry that they're a bit late, but you're so glad to see them come.

Furthermore, as an unexpected Easter egg, George Lucas announced that he's looking to give his Star Wars films a full retrograde 3D treatment. Seeing a spherical 3D Death Star explode is mighty appealing.