Saw 3D graces our screens this week for yet more disgusting attempts to freak out the viewer, and now they have a whole new level of technology to play with. But does 3D really suit the horror genre? To 3D, or not to 3D, that is the question. Is it easier on the eye to suffer the reality of 3D on the screen, or revolt, and refuse to watch a rejigged horror spectacle.
Kids movies, if we look at the examples of Up and Toy Story 3 benefit from 3D viewings, as they make children’s movies more interactive. Supposedly, this level of interactivity will work better at frightening the bejeesus out of anyone who goes to watch the special edition of Saw 3D, released right in time for Halloween. But I’m not so convinced. In fact, I’m pretty sure it will just make a very popular movie emulate an event at Alton Towers.
And in this case, it is simply that Saw has been adapted for a special 3D viewing, but what happens when technology-obsessed horror movie producers suddenly jump on the bandwagon- will all our horrors hit the cinemas in 3D? Personally, I think that would be a shame, as the best horror movies are written with subtlety and suspense. Not a giant clown head appearing out of the screen as if to garrote you.
For gore movies, maybe. For action? Well, I have trouble keeping up with the speed at which action movies operate these days. My brain is a second behind on every car chase and fight scene, a la Bourne Identity or The Matrix. So perhaps I shall leave that choice up to you. But consider some of the more chilling horror movies you’ve watched. Were the moments that made you jump enough? Were you truly terrified, watching them on the screen? Yes? Then you probably don’t need to see them in 3D.
There’s a thin line separating horror and farse- perhaps 3D will widen the gap, but more likely, it will highlight just how dangerous it is to go playing with pretty images and 3D glasses when you don’t have a very good storyline.
But hey, it’s Halloween, so what the heck: Bet you 3D cures your ability to be scared by horror movies. So go see it and let me know if I’m wrong.
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