We get it. By converting a 2D film director Ranjit Tiwari’s Bell Bottom into 3D the producers are trying to provide some major incentive to the audience to get into movie theatres to watch the film when it releases on August 19. But converting a 2D film into 3D has always been disastrous. The way to make a film in 3D is to shoot in 3D, and not thrust the technology into the work. However, trade guru Taran Adarsh says it’s a good idea. “It's a great idea to release Bell Bottom in 3D because one, it's a big-budget film with Akshay Kumar essaying the lead role, so, obviously, the expectations are sky-high. Two, hopefully, it should be the first Hindi biggie to release in cinemas after they reopen. Three, the feel of watching a big film on the big screen in 3D holds its own charm. Therefore, I feel, it's a wise move on the producers part to release it in 3D.”
Says Girish Johar, Producer & Film Business Expert, “By releasing Bell Bottom in 3D the makers not only enhance the audiences viewing but also get a chance for screening the film for a wider audience not only in India, to beat the capacity restrictions SOPs but also in overseas markets too. Hence larger audiences can be catered.” Girish feels 3D could increase Bell Bottom’s boxoffice feasibility, “Also the probability of earning revenues increases. 3D ticket prices are normally higher all across the globe than the regular ones. Finally, 3D should be initiated only if the film can bring in that extra value to the audiences along with extraordinary screen visuals blended with the story of the film.”
Well-known film exhibitor Akshaye Rathi is more cautious in his enthusiasm for the converted format. “The impact of 3D is optimized when the content and shot design lends itself to the format. Without knowing those aspects of Bell Bottom, it would be tough to guess how well the film may perform in 3D. However, 3D is an offering that isn't replaceable on mobile phones and TVs and hence, the excitement around that element can make consumers prefer watching the film in cinema halls over engaging in piracy during the course of its theatrical run.”
Trade analyst Atul Mohan also feels adding a third dimension to Bell Bottom may not be such a good idea. “We have to offer audiences something different to attract them to the cinemas. Watching a big film on the big screen is one big experience and we all are missing that. But at the same time, you have to make sure whether your subject requires a 3D viewing experience. When we talk about 3D first thing that comes to mind is sci-fi, war or mythological films loaded with VFX. Also watching a 3D film is a little expensive as it entails the cost of glasses." Atul brings up the very important issue of the hygiene factor. “ Sanitization should not be an issue as we are already using disposable or take away glasses at plexes. Producers and exhibitors should ensure that they use disposable glasses.”
Image source: IMDb