3-D Movies, Fad or Future?

On Jan. 13, 2012, Walt Disney Animation Studios re-released its classic romantic fairy-tale, “Beauty and the Beast”, in 3-D. In its re-opening weekend, the film grossed $17,751,905 in the box office, compared to its original wide opening weekend gross of $9,624,149 in November of 1991.

This is the second animated film that Disney has re-released in 3-D, the first being “The Lion King 3D” in September of 2011. Considering the astounding success of the film, it is no wonder three other movies are schedules to be re-released after “Beauty and the Beast 3D”. Look to September of 2012 for Pixar’s “Finding Nemo 3D”. In January of 2013 the lesser popular “Monsters, Inc.” will be re-released followed by the beloved “The Little Mermaid” that September.

Considering the sensationalism surrounding the re-releases, one must think that Walt Disney Pictures must be on to something, but these precious animated films are not the only ones to be gracing the big screens for a second time. In February 2012, fans will be able to enjoy George Lucas’ “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace” in 3-D. Also returning this year is “Titanic”, directed by James Cameron, being re-released April 6, 2012.

With all of the upcoming re-releases in 3-D, one has to ask: is 3-D our future, or just a fad?

This story was written and submitted by senior Ashlee Brockenbrough