3D continues its arduous journey into the mainstream.
New 3D-TV programming from ESPN, a push into 3D gaming by both Sony and Nintendo and cheaper alternatives for cost-conscious consumers are boosting the attractiveness of the technology for homes, while new movies are increasingly being shot in 3D to enhance the on-screen effect and shake off the stigma faux-3D films like last year's "Clash of the Titans" created.
The 3D@Home Consortium -- a group consisting of industry insiders with a vested interest in seeing the technology succeed -- unsurprisingly maintains high hopes for a true breakthrough.
Despite the increase in theatrical 3D releases over the past couple years Chris Chinnock, the president of Insight Media, approved the concept that the benefits of the technology may not always outweigh the risks.
He said in a report discussed at Home Media Magazine that "Hollywood is understanding that not every film can be 3D."
This is perhaps welcome news to theatergoers tired of shelling out extra cash for 3D movies that may not deliver the goods -- or simply don't want to wear the bi-colored glasses. However, according to the 15-year industry veteran more 3D films are being made now than during the technology's first upswing in the 1950s.
Insight Media oversees the 3D@Home group (which itself is comprised of people from Samsung, Sony and Intel) and thus privy to insider information, so it may be tough for detractors to divorce Chinnock's appraisal of a forthcoming "second boon" from his obvious ties to those who would most benefit from such an event. Regardless, his enthusiasm on the spread of 3D cannot easily be dismissed: some reports are pointing to a bright future for 3D-TVs.
For many, it's not a matter of "if," but "when."
