Chapter 1 - Professional 3D Production in the 2010s

Abstract

Mendiburu describes the current and ever-changing landscape in which 3D production is being redefined, from a “geek toy” to a serious business with new technological tools. The first year all major U.S. animation studios released CGI movies in S3D was 2009, ending with Avatar; 2010 confirmed this trend. The rapid transition to 3D TV between 2009 and 2010 shows that 3D TVs will soon invade living rooms with 3D games, TV channels, and 3D video on demand (VoD). Mendiburu evaluates the bunk and validity of 3D-bashing regarding stereo blindness; too much or too little 3D effects; the active/passive 3D format war; the promised glasses-free future; the so-called 3D box office downturn; and the seeming lack of 3D content. He also attempts to forecast what may come in 3D TV, and explores whether 3D is worth the cost. The chapter includes an overview of typical 3D productions, as well as the technological quest for image perfection and the lessons learned since the 3D revolution began. The chapter concludes with an overview of 3D crewing and new job descriptions.