3D Distraction

Is it really so surprising that 3D technology is seeing diminishing box office returns? Of course people are going to get tired of studios rushing a 3D transfer onto 2D movies to squeeze a few more bucks out of ticket prices. The reason Avatar did so well--the only reason that cliche wrapped in an archetype did so well--is because its 3D was implemented flawlessly, from its conception. To complain that Piranha 3D is just a gimmick is to be disingenuous; at least it's upfront about its intentions (though why it too was shot in 2D and converted is a question worth asking), and has some reason for being 3D, which is more than can be said of Clash of the Titans.

Speaking for myself, Coraline and Avatar were wonders to behold (though the former gave me a headache and the latter I would have not bothered to see without the 3D technology), and this is because Henry Selick and James Cameron understand how to use the technology to its best advantage. Werner Herzog, who is filming a 3D documentary about the 30,000 year old cave paintings in France, also seems to get how to use it to enhance the experience.

That's my perspective, anyway.