Lucasfilm has announced that they will be releasing 3D versions of the Star Wars saga, and all six movies will be released in 3D, with the first one being shown in early 2012, starting with The Phantom Menace.
Lucasfilm has said that they are going to convert the movies to 3D so it looks like the originals were actually shot in 3D, and it looks like ILM (Industrial Light & Magic) are overseeing the conversion.
The Conversion Process
“Getting good results on a stereo conversion is a matter of taking the time and getting it right,” said John Knoll, Visual Effects Supervisor for Industrial Light & Magic. “It takes a critical and artistic eye along with an incredible attention to detail to be successful. It is not something that you can rush if you want to expect good results. For Star Wars we will take our time, applying everything we know both aesthetically and technically to bring audiences a fantastic new Star Wars experience.”
The conversion process to 3D is a meticulous and labor-intensive task. It involves separating the original 2D images into multiple layers and then adding depth to each layer to create the illusion of three-dimensional space. This process is not just about adding depth but also about ensuring that the visual storytelling remains intact and that the audience experiences the film as it was originally intended, but with an added dimension.
Expectations and Reactions
The announcement has generated a mix of excitement and skepticism among fans. While some are thrilled at the prospect of experiencing the Star Wars saga in a new dimension, others are more cautious. The Phantom Menace, in particular, has been a point of contention among fans since its original release. Some fans feel that the 3D conversion might not add much to the experience of a film that has already been heavily critiqued.
However, the involvement of ILM, a company renowned for its groundbreaking visual effects, has given many fans hope that the 3D versions will be of high quality. ILM has a long history of pushing the boundaries of visual effects, and their expertise is expected to ensure that the 3D conversion is done with the utmost care and precision.
Moreover, the 3D release of Star Wars could potentially introduce the saga to a new generation of viewers. Younger audiences who have grown up with 3D movies as a standard might find the 3D versions of Star Wars more engaging and visually appealing. This could help to keep the Star Wars legacy alive and relevant in an ever-evolving cinematic landscape.
I am not sure if I want to see Star Wars in 3D, certainly not The Phantom Menace, watching that one a few times was enough. However, the prospect of seeing iconic scenes from the original trilogy, such as the Death Star trench run or the Battle of Hoth, in 3D is intriguing. These scenes, with their dynamic action and intricate visual effects, could potentially benefit from the added depth and immersion that 3D can provide.
In conclusion, while the 3D conversion of the Star Wars saga is a bold and ambitious project, it remains to be seen how it will be received by fans and critics alike. The success of this endeavor will largely depend on the quality of the conversion and the ability of ILM to enhance the films without compromising their original charm and storytelling. Whether you are a die-hard Star Wars fan or a casual viewer, the 3D release is sure to be a topic of much discussion and anticipation in the coming months.
via Crunch Gear
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
