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U2 3D


Welcome to Reel People. It’s a place where, you guessed it, real people like yourselves spout off on new movie releases. It works best if you - yes, we mean you - jump into the forum link below and tell us what you think of the movie, too.

This week, we’re watching U2 3D.

What I Liked: Shot during the “Vertigo” tour while in Argentina, this concert film highlights the grandness of U2’s latest tour in glowing fashion.

The 3D effects are best put to use in sweeping shots of the band and inserts featuring action at two different positions in the arena.

While mostly shot straight-forward, the film ends with an song interestingly enhanced by graphics (which also appeared on the large screen behind the band.)

The sound quality mostly keeps with the spirit of a concert experience, with appropriate levels of crowd noise.

U2’s talent and showmanship are undeniable. This movie just showcases that.

What I Disliked: Rock ‘n roll videos rely heavily on quick and flashy cuts; 3D movies don’t thrive on that. At certain points, not enough time is left to enjoy the 3D effect of a shot before we have moved on from it.

Blurring can also be a problem with the high energy motion of the concert.

Cheesy 3D set-ups are kept to a minimum, mostly instigated by Bono when the camera gets too close.

Would I Recommend?: For U2 fans, this film is a must. Also, if you want to see the band without all the pushing and beer-spilling, go see this movie. It’s also a prime example of how 3D film can be used in an innovative way. In any case, it’s well worth the experience.

Score: 8 out of 10

- Don Smith


What I Liked: I thoroughly enjoyed U2 3D! This was my first 3D concert and it was indescribable! I felt as if I was literally on stage with the band! I could actually feel the energy of the audience! I definitely prefer this over physically being at a concert live! It was so nice to hear the music without all the distortion and crowd noise. It was great seeing the show from different angles, swooping in and out of the crowd and all around each band member. There are plenty of close ups that bring you much closer than any live performance could ever get you. The 3D overhead shots were stunning and would obviously be impossible to recreate in person. The visuals and sound quality were just amazing. What I loved most about U2 3D is that it’s full of fast paced, nonstop music without any boring behind-the-scenes footage or band interviews. I really hope more bands do this type of concert recording because I love it!

What I Disliked: At one point Bono flaps his arms gracefully as if he’s a bird in slow motion. Very un-cool. U2 3D loses a point for that. Bono randomly explores homoeroticism with the bassist, Adam Clayton, including a caress of the face and a kiss on the lips. It’s possible this happens at all their concerts and I’m completely ignorant, but it just sort of startled me and seemed out of place in the middle of trying to rock out. There was also no love for the guitarist, The Edge! I’m all for being open but I was unprepared for the dramatic display of love. After all, with the 3D I felt like I was right there having a threesome with them, which quite frankly is gross. Another point lost. Bono watered down some of the vocals at times, which I suppose is to be expected in any concert in general so he won’t lose a point for that. Finally, I got tired of U2’s message about religious and political coexistence. I do admire the message but sometimes I just want to rock out for the sake of the music, not for an agenda. When they used the song “One” as an analogy for the similarities between Argentina and Ireland I was a little offended by the stretch of the imagination there. Please let the song be what the lyrics are actually about, or let the song be what I want it to be about, but please don’t disgrace the song by having it mean eight thousand different things depending upon which political message you’re trying to get across that night. Another point lost for messing up “One.”

Would I Recommend?: Yes, this is a must see for all U2 fans!

Score: 7 out of 10

- Jessica Conrad


What I Liked: U2 3D is really like being at a concert. But not just in the audience. The cameras bring you on stage, up above, behind the drums, and much more. The results of the technology of this movie are really magical and hard to explain unless witnessed. It brings a major concert to life. But with better seats than you could ever normally afford.

What I Disliked: U2 3D is strictly a concert movie. Not a “Rattle and Hum” or “Truth or Dare” where they show backstage goings-ons. Just U2 on stage for 85 minutes. After a few songs, the magic of the 3D-ness wears off and it feels like you are just at a U2 concert. Which is great if you are a U2 fan, but if you are not it can get boring.

Would I Recommend?: For U2 and rock lovers alike, this is definitely an amazing experience. But if you could care less about Bono’s drone or The Edge’s guitar playing, you’d probably be better off passing.

Score: 6 out of 10

- Stephanie Powers

Send Us Your Comments

Posted by  john rosser, tampa on 01/26  at  02:51 PM

Who is assigned to coverage of the Gasparilla Film Festival, February 27th- March 2nd, 2008?

http://www.gasparillafilmfestival.com

John Rosser
Executive Director
info@gasparillafilmfestival.com


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  • We've set up a Street Team of movie reviewers to get the conversation started when it comes to new movie releases. That's right. We said get the conversation started. You get the last word, though. Tell us what you think here.
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