Another Dimension

"Sony expects that 3D televisions will make up between 30 percent and 50 percent of all sets it sells in the financial year that begins in April 2012," cited PC World back in November.

Even with the then-upcoming release of Avatar and several prior three-dimensional film efforts, it seemed a lofty goal.

The images this J-School Grad has of 3D call to mind the scant pop-out visuals of the Michael Jackson-led Captain EO.  The movie, which premiered in Disney's Theme Parks in the late 1980's, was "advanced technology" at the time, but if memory serves, it was certainly not spectacular enough to move one to yearn for 3D at home.

But now...?

It can hardly be argued that Avatar did a great deal to prove that 3D has come a loooooong way in these (ahem) short 20 (ish) years.

Film-releases.com shows a 41% increase in the number of 3D films coming to theaters in 2010, with titles including Yogi Bear, Beauty and the Beast, Alvin and the Chipmunks, and Smurfs.  


In addition, 3D technology is being co-opted by artists other than filmmakers in an effort to not only enhance the viewing experience, but to reach a broader audience.

The New York Times reported Thursday on the first 3D fashion show.

In 3D, via satellite from London, Burberry introduced its fall line to crowds assembled in New York, Los Angeles, Tokyo and Dubai.  According to the story, the presentation "had a convivial vibe, similar to the opening night of the latest sci-fi extravaganza...but instead of popcorn, there were canapes and Champagne.  And the previews were replaced with a 3D Christopher Bailey, the label's designer, talking about his inspiration."

Now, you might not be able to achieve said "convivial vibe" from the comfort of your home without first sending out a few invitations, but imagine the possibilities this experiment coupled with Sony's push implies:  Experience the front row at Fashion Week, watch a live concert without spending hundreds of  dollars for choice seating, enjoy an array of three-dimensional motion pictures...all from your living room couch.

I don't know about you, but I'm thinking that Sony stock could be a good investment.

That and the companies making those glasses...

(For the full Times story, click HERE.)