News & Press Releases

DreamWorks Animation bets big on InTru 3D technology

Jim Hill reports in from Boston, where Jeffrey Katzenberg just presented 30 minutes of clips from DWA’s next release, “Monsters Vs Aliens”

Published

16 years ago

December 19, 2008

Jim Hill

Jeffrey Katzenberg is a man on a mission.

That’s why the head of DreamWorks Animation flew up to Boston earlier this week to meet with exhibitors, film students and members of the media. With the hope that he’d then be able to win a few more converts over to his new world view. Which holds that the future of film lies in 3D.

Mind you, this is not — to quote Katzenberg — “your father’s 3D” that we’re talking about here. Waving a pair of the old red-and-blue anaglyph lenses about, Jeffrey talked about how the old version of 3D used to ” … give some people headaches, make others nauseous. And that’s supposed to be good for business?”

Katzenberg certain hopes that this new version of 3D is good for business. For he’s pretty much betting DreamWorks Animation’s future on this new film format. Starting with the release of “Monsters Vs Aliens” in March of 2009, all of his studio’s forthcoming releases will be produced in 3D.

And this is not going to be an inexpensive bet. According to what Jeffrey said at Monday’s presentation, the 3D rendering process (i.e. once for the left eye, once for the right eye and once for the middle distance) will add approximately $15 million to the cost of producing each DreamWorks Animation feature. Which — given that the average cost of a new DWA project already hovers around $150 million — is a considerable chunk of change. Though DreamWorks Animation does hope to quickly recover these additional costs through the sale of higher priced tickets to these new premium presentations of its motion pictures.

Which may be a challenge. Given that — as of this moment — there are only 1500 screens in the country equipped to show movies in the InTru 3D format. Though — when you fold in the 120 IMAX screens nationwide that can show 3D films as well as the thousand new 3D-equipped theaters that are expected to come on line in early 2009 — that then bumps the number of screens that will be able to show “Monsters Vs Aliens” in 3D up to around 2500. Which is where Jeffrey says 35 – 40% of the revenue for this new DWA film (Thanks to that on-average $5 additional fee for this new premium viewing experience) will come from.

Photo by Nancy Stadler

Which is admittedly impressive. But wait. It gets better. Now jump ahead to 2010. When Katzenberg expects that there’ll be 7500 screens in the country that will be capable of showing InTru 3D presentations. He anticipates that 80 – 85% of the audience for “Shrek 4” will to pay a higher ticket price in order to get that premium movie-going experience.

Okay. I know. Some of this sounds like pie in the sky. Especially given what’s going on with the economy right now. But let’s keep in mind that it’s not just DreamWorks Animation that’s getting serious about 3D’s profit potential. Take — for example — the Mouse’s Disney Digital 3D efforts. Which no longer just involve the studio’s newer releases like “Bolt” but are now being expanded to incorporate older, more popular library titles like “Beauty and the Beast.” Which is right now in the middle of being converted from 2D to 3D.

Of course, one of the other reasons that Disney & DreamWorks are so hot for 3D these days is that this new film format is virtually pirate proof. Which means that — at least for the immediate future — they no longer have to worry about people with camcorders stealing & then selling their intellectual property.

But that’s only if people deem these new 3D films worth stealing. During his presentation on Monday, Katzenberg kept circling back to the idea that ” … all of this investment, all of this new technology won’t make a bad movie good.”

But the upside of that situation is … Based on the 3D minutes of “Monsters Vs Aliens” I saw last week, InTru 3D can make a good film seem even better.

The production team of this new DWA feature have done a very clever thing. With the exception of two very brief homages to old style 3D (i.e. when things used to fly off the screen at the audience) at the very beginning and the very end of their movie, “Monsters Vs Aliens” uses this technology to draw moviegoers into this film. To create some real emotional depth.

Photo by Nancy Stadler

Which — I know — sounds kind of unlikely. Given that “Monsters Vs Aliens” starts off as a Mad Magazine-style spoof of 1950s-era sci-fi and monster movies. With the Earth being threatened with alien invasion and the only thing that can possibly stop this attack from outer space is the U.S. ‘s super-secret stash of … Well … monsters.

But do you remember how “Kung Fu Panda” took a totally ridiculous premise and then turned that into a genuinely entertaining motion picture with exciting action scenes and characters that you actually cared about? “Monsters Vs Aliens” does that too and then folds in 3D.

Case in point: There’s a sequence in this motion picture where the monsters are doing battle with this mountain-sized probe that’s laying waste to San Francisco. And as you might expect, the apex of the action comes right in the middle of Golden Gate Bridge. As Susan, the 49 & 1/2-foot tall woman finds herself trapped inbetween Insectasaurus, a 300-foot tall good guy, and the previously mentioned probe. And as Susan dodges the probe’s killer claws while trying to rescue commuters that are trapped on the bridge … “Monsters Vs Aliens” went from being this jokey parody to this genuinely engaging action-adventure that was filled with — dare I say it? “Incredibles” -like laughs and thrills. Which was then made all the more exciting by this new 3D element.

You know what else I found intriguing about this footage? That DreamWorks Animation didn’t go the theme park route. That “Monsters Vs Aliens” 3D elements weren’t gratuitous. But — rather — they were all story-driven and added to this film in order to help create excitement & emotional depth. To help draw movie-goers into this motion picture.

So will InTru 3D really be able to do everything that Jeffrey Katzenberg says it will? Will this next generation of 3D film-making technology actually be the biggest thing to hit Hollywood since sound came in in the 1920s and color came in in the 1930s? To be honest, I don’t know.

But what I Do know is … Given “Monsters Vs Aliens” ‘s obvious affection for the films of the 1950s that inspired this new DreamWorks Animation release, this is one baby boomer who knows where he’ll be in late March of 2009. Which is seated in some dark theater wearing polarized glasses, hoping that the rest of “Monsters Vs Aliens” is just as good as the 30 minutes of InTru 3D clips I saw earlier this week.

Your thoughts?

If you’d like to show your appreciation for all the great stories that you regularly read here on this website, then why not start out your next Amazon shopping spree by clicking on the banner above? That way, JHM gets a teeny tiny chunk of whatever you spend.

Happy Holidays!

News & Press Releases

New Updates and Exclusive Content from Jim Hill Media: Disney, Universal, and More

Published

10 months ago

February 23, 2024

Jim Hill

Boy oh boy, do I have some exciting news to share with all of you.

If you’ve been following our journey at Jim Hill Media, you know we’re all about peeling back the curtain to reveal behind the scenes insights, news, and history that surround the world of entertainment and theme parks.

And today, I’ve got a treasure trove of updates to share. So, grab your popcorn, and let’s get into it.

A New Chapter on Patreon

As many of you know, we recently made the big leap over to Patreon, and let me tell you, it’s been quite a rollercoaster ride. This move was driven by your requests for more exclusive content (and the easy to use RSS feed and app is a BIG bonus).

I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt appreciation for your unwavering support. Your enthusiasm and engagement have been the driving force behind our passion for delivering the best of Disney and Universal content.

Moving to Patreon has opened new avenues for us to connect more deeply with our listeners, offering exciting perks and benefits that allow us to tailor our content more closely to your interests and preferences. It’s been an incredible journey of crafting special content, such as the launch of our video podcast series, [Disney Unpacked].

[Disney Unpacked] – A Video Podcast Series Like No Other

Imagine sitting down for a chat with a Disney Imagineer who’s helped shape your Disney experiences for over three decades. That’s what we’re bringing to the table with [Disney Unpacked]. Alongside the legendary Jim Shull and my partner in crime Len Testa, we explore Disney’s storytelling, sharing how beloved rides and attractions were created, through the eyes of an Imagineer like Jim Shull who personally contributed to these projects.

It’s a rare opportunity to host a video show with Jim Shull, a Disney Imagineer who’s worked on projects like Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster and Toontown for over 33 years. If you’re curious about Jim and his work, check out our “Meet Jim Shull” video.

But that’s not all – as a patron, you’ll gain access to even more exclusive content. Our “Carry On” podcast, where Jim Shull and I explore stories that didn’t quite make it into the main episodes, offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process behind [Disney Unpacked]. Plus, our regular Q&A sessions give you the chance to get answers to all your burning questions about the show.

Beyond the Podcast: Photos and Artifacts from an Imagineers Personal Collection

And if that wasn’t exciting enough, let me introduce you to our brand-new monthly video show, “Picture This.” Hosted by yours truly alongside Jim Shull and moderated by Lauren Hersey, “Picture This” offers a behind-the-scenes look at Jim Shull’s personal collection of over 60,000 photos and artifacts from his 33-year career at Disney. From rare behind-the-scenes shots to exclusive glimpses of Disney history, this show is a must-watch for any serious Disney fan.

Jim Shull opens up his vault and shares some never-before-seen photos and the stories about them.

The History of the Pixar Place Hotel

Recently, it was announced that Disneyland’s Paradise Pier hotel would be reopening as the Pixar Place Hotel.

Curious about the backstory behind this decision? Join Jim Shull and me as we delve into the history of the Pixar Place hotel. Explore its fascinating origins and gain insights into the inspirations drawn from Jim’s leadership on the Toy Story Hotel project at Shanghai Disney.

This YouTube documentary-style video offers a look into the creative process behind one of Disney’s iconic hotel projects.

Debut of “I Want That Too” Video Podcast

Introducing our newest podcast addition, “I Want That Too,” where Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dive deep into the fascinating world of Disney products. From toys and collectibles to apparel and home goods, we’re here to unpack it all.

But we’re not just about the merchandise – join us as we explore the rich history and untold stories behind your favorite Disney goodies. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting your Disney journey, there’s something for everyone on “I Want That Too.”

This show drops bi-weekly as a Podcast and a Video over on the Jim Hill Media YouTube Channel.

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts today.

Welcoming Universal Fans with “Epic Universal” Podcast

And for all you Universal enthusiasts (or Universal Curious) out there, we’ve got you covered too! Introducing “Epic Universal,” a bi-weekly podcast hosted by Eric Hersey and yours truly.

Join us as we dive into the latest news, interviews, and trip planning tips from the Universal universe. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious about what’s happening at Universal Studios, we invite you to join the conversation and stay updated with “Epic Universal.”

A Look Ahead: The Future of Jim Hill Media

Phew! It’s been an exhilarating few months at Jim Hill Media, with our Patreon move and new show launches, all dedicated to bringing you top-notch theme park news, insights, and history. Your support and enthusiasm have been the driving force behind our efforts, and we’re incredibly thankful for it.

Looking ahead, we’re excited about the future, with more content and partnerships on the horizon. Whether you’re into Disney, Universal, Marvel, or Merch, we invite you to stay engaged and subscribe for more updates.

A huge thank you for being part of our journey.

News & Press Releases

Disney Will Bring D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event to Anaheim, California in August 2024

Published

1 year ago

September 9, 2023

Nancy Stadler

Expanded Disney Fan Experience Will Feature New and Exciting Events Across Multiple Locations, Including a D23 Takeover of the Happiest Place On Earth, Evening Entertainment at the Honda Center, D23 Day at Angel Stadium, and Much More

Fan Favorites Including Exhibits, Panels, Shows, and Shopping Will Dazzle Disney Enthusiasts at the Anaheim Convention Center

D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event is a one-of-a-kind fan experience like never before with spectacular shows, new venues, and multiple days of entertainment that will bring together the best of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and more!

Highlightswill include:

Sunday, August 4: D23 Day at Angel Stadium, where D23 fans are invited to attend the Los Angeles Angels vs. New York Mets game.
Thursday, August 8: D23 kickoff celebration at Disneyland Resort.
Friday, August 9 – Sunday, August 11: Shopping, exhibits, panels, and presentations will take place at the Anaheim Convention Center during the day, with the fun extending into the evening at the Honda Center, the bigger home to marquee shows.

Tickets for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will go on sale in Spring 2024, with ticketing options to be announced later for access to the Anaheim Convention Center and the Honda Center. Admission for D23 Day at Angel Stadium and the D23 kickoff celebration at Disneyland Resort will be available as separate ticketed events. Additional details for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will be announced in early 2024.

You can get updates by staying connected to D23 via social media (@DisneyD23 on Facebook, Instagram, X), D23.com, and our weekly D23 FanFare email (sign up for free as a D23 General Member at JoinD23.com).

About D23

The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his first studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s nearly 100-year history. It gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic year-round through its quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three; the latest news and stories on D23.com; member-exclusive offers and discounts; the popular D23 Inside Disney podcast; and special experiences for D23 Members throughout the year.

Fans can join D23 at Gold Membership ($99.99/year), Gold Duo Membership ($129.99/year), and General Membership (complimentary) levels at D23.com. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow DisneyD23 on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and YouTube.

News & Press Releases

Star Wars Spoof: Space Robots in Outer Space Ep X: Battle for the Halcyon: The Last Starcruiser

Published

2 years ago

May 4, 2023

Jim Hill

Sure, Star Wars is cool and all. But let’s not forget about that other multi-part sci-fi cinematic spectacular, “Space Robots in Outer Space.” In fact, Hank Lonely (Hollywood’s ultimate hyphenate — actor / producer / director / writer / guy who makes sure the Porto Potties are kept squeaky-clean) just announced that there’ll soon be a 10th installment of this … Well, not exactly beloved. How about we say “admired from afar” instead? … series coming to a theater near you. In fact, here’s the highly anticipated teaser trailer for that project. Which is supposed to be titled “Space Robots in Outer Space X — Battle for the Halycon: The Last Starcruiser.”

Okay. Now the real story … In honor of Star Wars Day (i.e., May 4th. As in “May the Fourth Be With You”), Len Testa and I are sharing something that we produced with the help of all the nice folks who joined us last month aboard the Halycon.

We turned the Galactic Starcruiser as well as Black Spire Outpost into the backdrop for an affectionate send-up of all things Stars Wars. We hope that you (more importantly, the legal team at Lucasfilm) take this faux trailer in the spirit with which it was intended. Special thanks to Aaron Adams for so skillfully stitching all of this footage together. Also thanks to the team at Storybook Destinations, Touring Plans and the talented cast & crew aboard the “Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser” for making this “Disney Dish” fan event so memorable.