the bright idea

'Star Wars' Saga Goes 3D

Every Star Wars fan is responding to the news that the saga will be rereleased in 3D. I, obviously, need to respond as well and take an opposite opinion (as usual): I support it.

Three reasons.

1. I already love the saga. I hate 3D because every movie that has been released in 3D thus far has been a marketing ploy. The only reason 3D movies sell tickets is because they’re in 3D. This time, it’s different. Here’s a film (or six) that I already know I love in 2D. I look forward to getting the opportunity to actually enjoy the 3D craze.
2. I’ll watch Star Wars on my iPod, my laptop, a 20” tube TV, or a 60” HDTV. Doesn’t bother me. The last time I saw the original trilogy in a theater was 1997 when I saw them for the first time. I was five, fell in love with them, grew a passion for filmmaking (and eventually TV) and then got to where I am right now. I’ll go for round two.
3. Star Wars has long been the playground for new visual effects technologies. Complain about the prequels as much as you want, but they led the way for digital filmmaking much like the original trilogy broke ground for stop motion and effects compositing. The Special Editions were remastered and restored unlike any other films. It only makes sense that Star Wars would lead the way in 2D - 3D adaption.

People fail to realize that Star Wars is a concept, not three movies from the late ’70s and early ’80s. It’s a modernization of classic storytelling, a pace-setting venture in filmmaking and visual effects, and a phenomenon that has affected multiple generations like no other.

The Star Wars saga will continue to grow, even outside of the celluloid form it was born into in May of 1977.

May the Force be with you (even you, Jar Jar).