What is the need for 3D?

3D Television and cinema has recently become extremely popular, since the release of Avatar last year. I was not a major fan, but could definitely appreciate the new cinematography techniques. Avatar gave 3D technology a new edge, as before it was mainly used for children's films and family favourites. It made it artistic and exciting.

However, now it seems that film makers saw the success of 3d technology and thought, 'What a great idea, now lets use it to death!' I am being slightly dramatic but I feel that this idea, once innovative and interesting has now been thrust into the mainstream and there's a definite danger of over-using it.

Although 3D technology was invented in the 1950s, it has been popularised over the last decade and now it seems every new film to be released is using it. The most anticipated films of the year, that already have cult followings and are sure to storm the box office, feel the need to add this extra. The final Harry Potter installments are using the technology and it is rumoured that Breaking Dawn of the Twilight Saga is using it too. While stated in the trailers as a selling point for new films, the mere mention of '3D' sends me into frustration and begs me to ask the question, 'Why the need?'

This technology doesn't make it a better film. It doesn't affect the plot, characters or emotional journey of the story. Of course I understand that directors want to break the fourth wall and transport the audience into the world of the film. Yet, shouldn't this be achieved through an excellent script with first rate acting?

As an actor, perhaps I am worried that the success of 3D technology may diminish the original truth of a script and the talent of the actors within it. With 3D effects captivating children's imaginations with creatures that look real; why does it matter if the plot is a little thin? Let's not pretend that while Avatar was visually spectacular, it did evidently steal it's plot from Disney's Pocahontas!

I guess I feel that although 3D technology can be very effective, its recent overuse is turning it into a gimmick used to ensure new films are brought to the forefront. Directors seem to feel that in order to be taken seriously, they must compete with Avatar's figures and use 3D technology in their films. Avatar was created to demonstrate the elegance of 3D technology. That was it's main aim and unique selling point. Now films with a completely different focus and appeal are using this technology as an added extra to entice audiences. For me it does quite the opposite.

The technology affects your cinema experience in a negative way from the onset. The ridiculous glasses you must wear are at an additional cost. These are often uncomfortable and affect your viewing enjoyment. This is on top of paying more for your cinema ticket. Directors are however not stupid. They know that if the film is popular enough audiences will go to see it anyway. Meanwhile they earn more money and ensure they are following in the latest trend.

Ultimately that is how I see 3D technology. A trend that I hope will only survive a little longer. I am starting to envisage a world of 3D televisions in the home and everyone owning their own set of 3D glasses....Quite tragic!

3D technology arrived as a new art form. My fear now is that it may eventually ruin the true art of film.