Although Avatar was not the first to use the new standard of
3D, in my opinion it was the first to really show it's potential, especially if
you were fortunate enough to see the film in IMAX. It was a visual feast like I've never seen
and will never forget. It should have
been a game changer. Sadly, that hasn't
been the case. While James Cameron spent
years making Avatar, putting his soul into the visual effects and ensuring the
3D offered an experience which pushed new boundaries, the vast majority of
subsequent moves have been lazy, using 3D in an unashamed attempt to 'cash-in'
. Many films, instead of being shot with
3D cameras as they should be, just
converted post production, Clash of Titans notably comes to mind. Its 3D offered us a never seen before
cardboard cut-out effect, with acting to match!
Now we have the next visual leap being offered to cinema
goers in the form of the high frame rate (HFR) version of The Hobbit. When I read Peter Jackson's brief but
interesting Q&A on HFR, I learned that the 24fps standard we
are all used to dates back to 1927. It
was primarily a commercial decision to shoot in that frame rate, to achieve a
balance between sound fidelity and saving costs on 35mm film stock. In the digital age we live in, that reason no
longer exists.
The Hobbit is shot in 48fps, and our eyes roughly see the
real world in around 55fps. So logic
would dictate that this increase can only do one thing, make everything seem
more real! So, what did people think?
The majority of reviews I've read seem to dislike it, saying it's at
best distracting and at worst makes the movie appear like a cheap TV film. A friend even warned me off the HFR version,
stating it spoilt the movie. So,
naturally, I had to see the HFR version.
When The Hobbit began I was sat there in fear of what these
extra frames would do to me, would I want to just walk out as I realised the
mistake Peter Jackson had made, and reschedule my viewing in the cosy 24fps
world I know so well? Well, the answer
is no! The extra frames give a realism
I've never seen before, and I loved it!
Those who shared my positive experience have likened it to watching a
very high production value stage play, and I can see where they are coming
from. It is no bad thing. Sure, it is a
bit disconcerting at first, we are so used to the 24fps format, but some of the
shots in the film are truly epic as a result of 48fps. Those who love action cannot fail to enjoy
what's now on offer, even in chaotic battle scenes you can make out EVERY
single movement, there is no blur or visual confusion, each and every swing of
a sword will be there to watch clearly.
It also takes away the eye strain of 3D, I actually think that 3D and
HFR sit together in a perfect partnership.
However, not all of it worked.
Some shots did look very cheap or just strange, mainly due to CGI which
just couldn't stand up to those extra frames.
There were also moments where I felt the movie were in fast forward, I
can only assume this was me not being used to it. I realise that film makers
will only get better using the technology, and can forgive The Hobbit these
moments of visual failing.
Writing for The Bearded Trio
Paul Baghurst
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