Video, Film, and Television – Page 35

The Value of 3D

April 29, 2010 by Steven Savage

I have an ambiguous relationship with the whole 3D movie/game/tv/whatever trend. On one hand, I love new gadgets and neat technology, and I like a good spectacle. On the other hand, it seems like it's becoming an annoying fad and everyone is jumping on the visually appealing bandwagon. Despite the challenges, despite lousy conversions of 2D films to 3D (Clash of the Titans comes to mind), people are barreling ahead with 3D. Apparently, there will be a 3D release of "The Last Airbender," which fills me full of dread (taking what appears to be a visually stunning film and running 3D after the fact? Not good.)

Now, I think 3D is going to be inevitable. It's approached a fad status, people are interested in visual quality, but I'm expecting 3D to be a very bumpy road for moviemakers, game makers, and hardware people. The problem is that people don't "get" 3D, they don't ask the question anyone should ask about a new technology, gizmo, process, etc.

Does it add value? If you don't ask that question you're either ignorant or just trying to jump on the bandwagon.

We Are All Publishers

December 9, 2009 by Steven Savage

Almost anything we progeeks are into can be considered a form of publishing. Knowing this is important to our careers.

That may sound strange when your interest doesn't come out as a book or a magazine, so stick with me here as I take a look at just what publishing is.

Properties, Media, Loyalty

November 29, 2009 by Steven Savage

So, yes, there will be a Risk movie. And a Monopoly movie. There's the failed attempt at Thundercats that looked actually cool, but films as we've seen are really working to create effort-free Multimedia synergy. Or to put it more crassly – grab a name, slap a film on it, profit from the free publicity and associations.

I am sure people will see the aforementioned films and others out of various reasons, from buying the publicity to morbid curiosity. Some may even make money or provide interesting experiments (the Monopoly film may do so). However, I think those behind the films are missing something.

Namely, a longer-term plan that builds interest, community, and long-term involvement.