So for this rundown, feel free to call me Miker 1117! That’s because my current task is to complete this evaluation on how DreamWorks Animation’s latest stacks up in the wilderness of premium effects. If you’re looking for our own Eric Eisenberg’s The Wild Robot review, that can be found elsewhere. For now, it’s time to boot up, and see just how wild the perils of Roz can get!

Overall Fit Score - 5/5

Both the 3D and 4DX fields couldn’t have picked a finer film to become attached to. As director Chris Sanders’ stunningly beautiful landscape has shown in The Wild Robot’s first trailer, the visual canvas is one of wide open adventure on a desolate wooded island. That alone makes perfect sense when applying 3D alone, as Sanders has had some experience with this form of premium exhibition, through his work on the How To Train Your Dragon franchise.

Thanks to How To Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World’s 3D experience, The Wild Robot is another movie upholding the DreamWorks tradition of animated thrills set to pop out at the audience. As for the 4DX experience, that’s something else the studio has had experience with, as this year’s release of Kung Fu Panda 4 had these atmospheric bells and whistles added.

Overall Planning & Effort - 4/5

As I mentioned before, DreamWorks Animation has quite a history of experience with both 3D and 4DX experiences. So the planning and effort on both ends of The Wild Robot’s premium execution is rather well rated. If there was going to be a winner crowned in this two-facet race, it’d have to be the 3D.

While the visual piece to this puzzle is planned and executed flawlessly, the 4DX side of things lacks some of the punch one would hope for. The resulting point deduction isn’t a significant loss though, as The Wild Robot still used 4DX to its advantage in rather spectacular ways, especially in the field of motion.

3D Before The Window - 5/5

As naturally as you could imagine The Wild Robot cast, including Ving Rhames as the voice of an owl named Thunderbolt, Roz’s lushly animated world knows how to throw things out at the audience. That wise flight instructor is a great example of nature projecting into the audience, as his pointed wing is one of the perfectly sold illusions in the third dimension.

Similar to what we saw in last week’s Transformers One 3D/4DX evaluation, there are definitely some robotic cannons and weapons pointed into the audience. At the same time, there’s more fun to be had with creatures lunging at the screen, and Roz’s detachable features also flinging through certain scenes.

3D Beyond The Window - 5/5

Depth can be used to really immerse the audience into a 3D presentation. On paper, The Wild Robot has a lot of potential, as it feels like it’s a picture built to deliver such an illusion throughout the entirety of the action presented. That’s due to a majority of the action takes place in nature, and another portion uses high flying life action to tell an emotional tale of Roz raising runt Brightbill (Boone Storme/Kit Connor).

I can safely say that after observing my 3D/4DX screening of The Wild Robot, the Beyond the Window factor is just as excellent as the Before the Window segment. Gorgeous flight scenes looking down on land and sea alike keep drawing the audience’s eye further into the visual canvas throughout the running time. But even in more intimate scenes, like the moment when Roz and Fink (Pedro Pascal) gather their friends in an enclosed dwelling, the ensuing fight never devolves into a confusing mess where characters can't be visually separated from their environment or each other.

3D Brightness Score - 3/5

For the second evaluation in a row, the brightness in 3D/4DX seems to be a bit dimmer than one would want or expect from something as colorful as this. That responsibility doesn’t solely fall on the shoulders of The Wild Robot’s 3D conversion team though, as the mileage will vary in this segment due to how well a theater maintains and calibrates its 3D projectors.

Seeing as this is the same location I saw Transformers One at last week, I think I may have to politely inquire with management about whether or not this is the case. But much like the origin story of the Autobots and Decepticons, The Wild Robot isn’t visually muddied to the point of being unwatchable. I’m sensing a pattern, and I’m hoping it can be corrected, as I rather like this location’s setup.

3D Glasses Off Score - 5/5

If you’re going to cry as much as I did during The Wild Robot, evaluating the Glasses Off score isn’t going to be a chore at all. Slipping off your 3D specs, you’ll notice that traditional blur that takes center stage when removing those special glasses. As the last singularly 3D aspect to grade in this evaluation, you can chalk up another perfect score in this section!

The blur is a nice, constantly shifting field of almost double vision for wide shots, with more 2D styled anchor points helping focus the eye on specific aspects. Now dry your eyes, as we’re about to get bumpy with the 4DX portion of the program.

4DX Water Effects: 4/5

There isn’t a constant deluge of sprinkler effects during The Wild Robot, which only sticks out in certain sequences throughout the picture’s running time. As the film opens with a rumbling storm of wind, rain and lightning, we’re not really hit with too much of that magic at the start.

Throughout the movie, the 4DX water effects do tend to be used to great effect, with light sprinkles coming from the stormier moments included. Also, this is the first premium spectacle I can think of that actually used the snow feature in the auditorium! It may have been limited, but it actually happened, so now I’ll have to pay attention to whether where you sit in the auditorium effects how much snow you get during the show.

4DX Scent Effects: 3/5

The type of scents used in The Wild Robot are limited to either floral or earthy notes spraying out at intermittent moments. Unfortunately, this is where the point deductions come into play, as there are several moments that could have used this feature to elevate things even more.

The Wild Robot contains moments like a running gag about being sprayed by a skunk, a huge battle in a futuristic orange grove and some seaside moments of reflection that could have been enhanced by this feature. I will say that when the scent canons are engaged, it does manage to boost the fun. I feel like there's a learning experience here, as I'd like to discover the true range of the 4DX scent spectrum for future evaluations.

4DX Light/Air/Smoke Effects: 3/5

Heading back to that opening storm scene, another surprising lack of effects I noticed was the absence of 4DX strobe lighting. Lightning is a perfect time to trigger those flashes, much like moments of Alien: Romulus’ 4DX experience had. Come to think of it, I don’t remember seeing any strobes going off, and there’s a whole scene where geese are being attacked by lasers.

Smoke didn’t play too much of a factor in The Wild Robot’s picture, but at the same time, the climactic forest fire set piece could have benefited from some more of that effect. Yes, folks, we do want that smoke. Last, but not least, air effects predictably work like a charm throughout DreamWorks Animation’s would-be blockbuster. You will believe a squirrel has just been beaned by an acorn thrown its way.

4DX Motion Effects: 5/5

The Wild Robot LOVES its motion effects, and it’s not afraid to show them off at any given moment in time. Not wasting any time, Roz’s initial sojourn through her island home puts us through our paces, as she imitates the gait of several animals in quick fashion. And for an adventure that includes a lot of flight training, you’ll definitely feel like you’re preparing for takeoff!

“Wild” doesn’t even cover the motions that you’re going to go through with this delightful romp in the woods, though it’s not as rough as Twisters’ 4DX experience. One final note of importance is the fact that The Wild Robot has leveled up my understanding of vibrational effects in the seats provided. The “imprinting” sequence between Roz and Brightbill is even more delightful when the sensors in your chair make it feel like you can sense the change coming over her.

Overall Audience Health - 5/5

For an adult moviegoer who can handle motion simulators, The Wild Robot is not going to cause you to vomit. The 3D side shouldn’t trigger any adverse reactions either, as the visuals are smooth and without any visual wonk. The only advisory I’d offer in this category is that if you’re bringing the kids to see this one, I’d check out Regal’s safety regulations as a good benchmark as to whether that’s a good idea or not.

Final Verdict: 47/55

Get ready to find your “Awoooooo” in The Wild Robot, as the 3D/4DX experience is quite the crowd pleaser. For us nitpickers, there are a couple things here and there that need addressing, but the audience at large is bound to consider this a well deserve upgrade from a standard theatrical presentation.

Having said that, I can now say I’ve officially completed my task of helping you decide which ticket you should by for The Wild Robot. I’m not sure if we’ll be evaluating Joker: Folie à Deux’s 4DX experience just yet, but if you’re feeling a particular need to see that happen, please let us know! Until next time, please feel free to rate the quality of your To 3D/4DX or Not To 3D/4DX evaluation experience. And remember, a Miker always completes his task!

Before we blast off, the usual caveats apply. If you want to know what we thought of the movie as a purely cinematic experience, you should definitely check out the critical reactions to Transformers One. But if you want to know if the 3D and 4DX experience are worth the extra Energon, you’ve come to the right place.

Now let’s roll out and talk about what these premium bells and whistles have to offer for the overall experience. Especially because we can now officially hype Transformers' return to animated cinematic adventure!

Overall Fit Score - 5/5

Since we’re talking about two different format components for this Transformers One screening, we’re going to have to get a bit more granular with the grading. So basically, both the 3D and 4DX fits will be evaluated individually, and then averaged together to make the Overall Fit Score. Don’t worry, it’s not too complicated this time out, as the journey that transforms Orion Pax (Chris Hemsworth) into Optimus Prime aces both halves of the coin.

It’s easy to give this sequel a 3D stamp of approval, as the Transformers movies have format history spanning all the way back to Dark of the Moon. With plenty of robot carnage, assorted weaponry and beautifully immersive backgrounds all in the mix, this format/franchise pairing continues to win.

As for the 4DX format, there’s a lot to be gained from seeing Transformers One in this style of exhibition. Especially because, thanks to certain effects present in the pre-requisite transformation sequences helping you actually feel like a Transformer yourself. Though that probably comes from 4DX being part of the premium franchise package since Transformers: Age of Extinction!

Overall Planning & Effort - 4/5

Much like we saw with the Overall Fit Score, the Overall Planning & Effort Score will also be an average of the two sides of this upcharge experience house. Just as 2023 brought us Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’ magnificent 3D presentation, Transformers One continues to uphold that tradition of excellence - which is another feather in Stereo Conversion house SDFX Studios’ cap.

But both the 3D and 4DX enhancements have certain drawbacks that keep either side from being a perfect home run. That comes from some surprising decisions on where to include and exclude certain effects in this combined package that still packs enough thrill to elevate the movie it happens to accompany.

3D Before The Window - 4/5

While I don’t expect the entirety of a picture like Transformers One to keep throwing objects and characters in my face, there’s still an obvious standard for prime Before The Window effect action. In my opinion, this component isn’t used to its fullest potential, but the moments that it does come up are pretty spectacular.

Mimicking the live-action piece of this saga, a lot of action involving weapons, catastrophic accidents, and debris flying out at the audience do fly out from time to time. One devastating scene involving Sentinel Prime (Jon Hamm) really drives this point home, as the audience gets a front row seat for the action.

3D Beyond The Window - 4/5

Though there isn’t exactly a feeling of limitless picture depth in the Beyond the Window portion of Transformers One, the end result does manage to blur the lines between the viewer and the film. A lot of the action on the surface of Cybertron, and the ensuing battle/race sequences that take place in Iacon City, best showcase this cog at work in the overall machinery.

3D Brightness Score - 3/5

No matter what type of 3D you’re choosing to engage in, the relative brightness of the equipment used by your theater of choice is always a variable to consider when purchasing your tickets. Unfortunately for the vividly colored worlds that make up Transformers One’s Cybertron, the dimming of the picture during the screening observed went a bit beyond the added grayness of slipping on those 3D glasses.

Taking into account how most of this adventure takes place in the well lit Iacon City, this factor doesn’t crash the entire enterprise. However, you're definitely going to notice the lack of brightness from time to time, which holds things back to a significant degree.

3D Glasses Off Score - 5/5

You’re still going to want to slip your glasses off when watching a 3D movie in 4DX, even though there may be some points where the motion makes you feel like they’ve got a mind of their own. (Which goes doubly for those of you who wear prescription glasses underneath.)

Doing so helps you check out the blur of a film such as Transformers One, and in engaging with that behavior, you can see that the blur is very rich throughout this movie’s canvas. Even scenes with close up action that would normally rely on more static 2D anchor points carry quite a bit of the blur that’s supposed to help ensure the 3D manipulation is being successfully executed.

4DX Water Effects: 3/5

Maybe it’s because I’m still feeling out the 4DX format, but I was actually surprised that we have a handful of Transformers One scenes involving robot spit. Having a scene where D-16 / Megatron (Brian Tyree Henry) gets socked in the face, only to sprinkle the audience as a result, was quite the surprise. There aren’t a lot of moisture related events in this narrative, but there are enough to really want a revised version that employs the effect a little more consistently.

4DX Scent Effects: 2/5

Anybody who’s read my Alien: Romulus 4DX review will remember that I was actually quite impressed with how well Fede Álvarez’s house of horrors opened my nose to the usage of the scent effects portion of this format. That newfound appreciation has made me more aware of that specific effect, and it’s an area of focus I’ve taken up in my education of the 4DX format.

With that in mind, the smells presented in Transformers One are not particularly varied, and I only really noticed the floral/earthy notes used in some of the jungle based scenes. So there's definitely something to speak of in this arena, but it's not particularly consistent.

4DX Light/Air/Smoke Effects: 4/5

Light, air and smoke effects may seem like minor touches, but they really can kick up the wow factor of a 4DX presentation. Transformers One makes quite a bit of Energon out of using these combined forces, with the fan enhancements being the most noticeable.

You actually feel like you’re flying through the air whenever a Transformer is falling or soaring through the skies, with the air cannons mounted in your headrest going off whenever there’s scenes of intense laser fire. A point is docked from this feature though, as the strobe light effects in a crucial scene in the finale seemed a bit off, and there’s only one scene involving any smoke.

4DX Motion Effects: 5/5

In terms of the 4DX realm, we truly have saved the best for last. Motion effects are possibly the most noticeable component of this entire premium experience, and Transformers One takes any and every opportunity to move your seats from their upright position. If you’ve ever wondered what getting into a train crash on the surface of Cybertron would feel like, you’re gonna learn the fun way!

More importantly, the seat vibration effects lock into place some key touches that actually made me feel like a Transformer! Whether it’s the main group getting their Cogs, or the very first transforming sequence, the motion fits the visual and sonic components to a tee. Seriously, they got the seat vibration to match the noise in a way that you might think you’re about to roll out yourself.

Overall Audience Health - 5/5

I won’t go too long on the Overall Audience Health, which as you’d guess is another average between the 3D and 4DX halves. Just know that there are no worries about nausea or discomfort with this Transformers One thrill ride. Though I will advise that you’ll want to consider the size of any potential children you’ll be taking to the show, as some of the rougher sequences might concern either them, or you, about potentially being thrown off the seat.

As always, you’ll want to read over the safety guidelines for the 4DX experience, as they’re there for a reason. Think of it as a theme park ride at a theater near you, just without seatbelts.

Final Verdict: 44/55

I think it’s safe to say that my first ride in 3D/4DX was a success. While Transformers One has its flaws, there’s no game breaking factors that make this unworthy of the Matrix of Premium Ticket Pricing. But then again, you don’t need to take my word for it! When CinemaBlend’s own Jeff McCobb sat down with the cast of the film, he was able to get the following enthusiasm out of Megatron himself, Brian Tyree Henry:

Whether you support the Decepticons or Autobots in this skirmish, you can’t deny that sort of excitement! And I’m right there with Mr. Henry, as while I was kind of worried that 3D and 4DX wouldn’t mix well, this screening put my worries at ease.

Which is good, as the 2024 movie schedule’s next 3D/4DX combo offering is DreamWorks Animation’s The Wild Robot. If we happen to cover that excitement, we’ll finally see how tears effect the overall result. But for now, it’s time for me, Premium Prime, to bid you all farewell and good hunting in the fight for the perfect premium experience!

Oh hi there. I’m sure you’re wondering why this To 3D or Not To 3D is coming days after Deadpool & Wolverine has already opened in theaters? Well, when a critic and a movie love each other very much, but some work trips and scheduling surprises force you to rebuy your tickets to the hottest title of the summer two times over…life happens.

Fear not though! This is the first and only MCU romp of the 2024 movie schedule, so we’re still gonna go to work in the third dimension. (Did you really think we were going to skip Marvel's only 3D movie at the theater this year? That's like resurrecting a beloved MCU cast member as a mega villain! You need a really good reason to do it.)

If you’re wondering how this flick plays out as a cinematic experience, our own Avenger Eric Eisenberg has the Deadpool & Wolverine review for you to check out. But if you’re ready to see if Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman’s ripped physiques are worth some extra 3D ticket money, then by Marvel, you’re in luck. Let’s close this door we’ve opened in the fourth wall for the time being and check out the IMAX 3D presentation of Deadpool 3!

Fit Score - 4/5

Now this is a rather interesting scenario when it comes to the pedigree of 3D moviemaking attached to Deadpool & Wolverine. We know that comic book movies are going to more than likely be in both IMAX and 3D formats when they’re released, because that’s pretty much the standard. But as far as our heroes are concerned, they’ve rarely (if ever) broken the third dimensional wall.

Neither of the Deadpool movies were released in 3D, and Logan hasn’t popped his claws out at us in that way since 2013’s The Wolverine. If anything, the strongest component of this film’s eye-popping lineage, it’s the involvement of director Shawn Levy. Looking back at the results of Free Guy’s 3D presentation, that’s still a pretty solid source of hype to kick things off with. But let's get technical, and see if it holds up.

Planning & Effort - 3/5

Having Free Guy as a point of comparison is also a bit of a drawback when it comes to Deadpool & Wolverine, as the effort put into this premium experience falls a bit shy of that movie’s spectacular bells and whistles. Up at bat on conversion is the MCU’s traditional partner SDFX Studios, once again with some “additional 3D conversion” done by Seecubic.

As we saw with the last Marvel Studios film released in theaters, the similarly 3D-enhanced The Marvels, there was a bit of a mixed bag at work with the results shown on screen. The latest Deadpool movie is a similarly jumbled effort, as there are some spaces where the results are laugh out loud fantastic, and some where it’s merely solid. But to their credit, it’s never boring or unwatchable; it’s just that the movie opens with some super strong visual tricks that make it difficult to go back to a more traditional 3D effort.

Before the Window - 3/5

I’m not trying to spoil Deadpool & Wolverine for you, but you’ve probably heard about how the movie opens at this point. But just in case you haven’t, I’m going to warn you, we’re going to talk about it here. So just know that the Before the Window factor of items popping out/being thrown out at the audience is well crafted, if not nearly used enough. That said, mild spoilers for the opening are ahead, so feel free to jump to the next section if you want to avoid.

Still here? Great, because Dancepool’s (Nick Pauley) tangle with the TVA agents trying to apprehend him in the beginning is exactly how I wanted Deadpool 3 to play throughout its entire 3D run. Opening credits are scattered through the screen, bones, blood, and body parts are flying out at us in the audience, and if there’s a superhero landing in the world of third dimensional enhancements, it’s effects that break the frames that letterbox the film.

The only other movie I can think of that’s used this effect is the loving 3D boost to Paul Feig’s Ghostbusters reboot, and more IMAX 3D presentations should totally throw this into the mix. But after the flashy Deadpool & Wolverine opening, we only get some weapons and objects flying out of the screen every now and then. And except for the sidescrolling third act fight between Deadpool, Wolverine, and… a whole army of spoilers, we don’t really see many more frame breakers throughout.

Beyond the Window - 4/5

The depths to Deadpool & Wolverine’s Beyond the Window effect are, sadly, never quite as limitless as one would expect. And while I throw that in as a caveat, I can totally see why it wasn’t exactly a priority when it came to crafting the 3D thrills on hand. For as action-packed as this adventure can be, the Deadpool threequel is a more intimate affair than most timeline hopping adventures.

With that quibble out of the way, the usual staples in the Beyond the Window factor are very much present. Spatial reasoning between characters, objects and environments is drawn quite expertly, not to mention there’s moments of Hugh Jackman’s abs (and yes, Ryan Reynolds’ prominently costumed ass) that allow the audience to feast their eyes, with only a pair of 3D glasses to prevent their eyes from falling out.

Brightness Score - 3/5

Oh friends… brightness, or its absence, is truly the enemy of 3D reviews, and this can even happen while watching the usually superior IMAX 3D presentation of a movie such as Deadpool & Wolverine. Despite having the power and scope of this large format and its equipment at its disposal, the picture quality is a bit mid in this segment in particular.

Of course, your mileage will always vary with the Brightness factor, as part of this handshake is how well the location maintains its equipment. But in all fairness, this is the same theater I saw Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire’s 3D throwdown at, which was a presentation that only slightly dimmed once you put your glasses on.

Whereas during Deadpool & Wolverine there was a significant dimness that didn’t make the movie unwatchable, it just left the picture a bit muddy in places. The nighttime campfire scene between Logan and Laura (Dafne Keen) still packs an emotional punch, but it's the prime example of the criticism expressed above.

Glasses Off Score - 4/5

If you’re going to check the Brightness, then you’re naturally going to want to check the blur of the picture in your 3D showing of choice. Slipping off your glasses is like Deadpool and an adorable animal sidekick: it’s not just irresistible, it’s a natural instinct. On first blush, the usual 2D anchor beings and 3D blur seemed to be included, as per usual.

However, the actual level of blur was a bit lesser when compared to other movies I’ve seen in this format. Not by much, but again it’s probably due to the more personal nature of a lot of Deadpool & Wolverine’s scenes. 2D anchor points tend to dominate when it comes to keeping a character like Matthew Macfadyen’s Mr. Paradox in frame throughout extended swaths of expository dialogue and threat. You’ll still get quite the blur show with this movie, and that does include your usual wide shots where you’re practically seeing double.

Audience Health - 4/5

For all of the nitpicks I have with Deadpool & Wolverine’s 3D showdown, it’s still a movie you can watch in 3D without having to worry about eye fatigue or nausea. While we feel quite far removed from the days of people wanting to throw up during chaotic action presented in this format, not even the more common eye strain that comes from the darkest of visual moments in this picture will make you ill at ease.

At the same time, you'll definitely notice the moments where it's too dark for its own good, and that does take away from the format's charms in Deadpool 3. You won't have a hard time watching this picture show in 3D, but there are still some bumps along the road so to speak.

Final Verdict: 25/35

Deadpool & Wolverine’s 3D adventure is a solid base hit in terms of using premium formatted flash to its advantage. It has its flaws, which make it far from a required experience, but it’s definitely worth fanatics of the third dimension venturing out at their convenience. In fact, this is one of the more readily available IMAX 3D experiences, as my local venue had two showings instead of the traditional single option.

Alas, with that verdict in hand and the fourth wall removed once more, it’s time to say bye bye bye to this latest round of To 3D or Not To 3D. Fear not though, if my calculations are correct, we’ll all be gathered together again in September to see if Transformers One is more than meets the eye when you slip on those glasses. Unless, of course, there’s a secret 3D offering or two waiting in August to take our breath away.

I’m just saying, Disney, if you want to spring a 3D Alien: Romulus option on us all out of nowhere, now is the time to do it. Until next time, please remember to recycle your glasses, and always give life your maximum effort. This is Mikepool, signing off.

If you want to know about how this movie plays as a standard cinematic experience, then our own Dirk Libbey’s Despicable Me 4 review is just where you want to go. But if you want to determine whether those Mega Minions are worth the extra 3D ticket money, then slip on your glasses and let’s start the show!

Fit Score - 5/5

In all honesty, I haven’t been a fan of this franchise since Despicable Me 2. But with the most recent entries like Minions: The Rise of Gru’s 3D presentation, and now Despicable Me 4, there’s one huge bright spot to sitting down to these movies: they are being built to maximize 3D thrills. In fact, by the numbers in the third dimension, this is a pretty stand-up film.

There’s no question about the pedigree that Illumination Entertainment has had with crafting their pictures, even the non-Despicable ones, into 3D products. This entry isn’t going to make you reconsider that any further. However, you should be asking yourself a very important query: does Despicable Me 4 take the red and blue crown from the current champ, Despicable Me 2?

Planning & Effort - 5/5

It’s incredibly easy, but also deceptively difficult when creating a picture like Despicable Me 4 in a whole cloth digital studio. Ideally, this gives CGI animated movies a much needed advantage, as the images can be manipulated at the source to create 3D magic. In terms of this return to the shenanigans of the Anti-Villain League and the Minions, that advantage is used to the fullest extent.

Despicable Me 4 feels like it was built with 3D in mind, from the ground up. Which is fantastic, considering Minions; The Rise of Gru had a good start, but failed to stick the landing. If the folks at Illumination happen to be reading this, I must tip my cockroach ray to you for a job well done.

Before The Window - 5/5

I should have known to go into this movie with a pretty important question of my own: how will the Mega Minions from that recent Despicable Me 4 trailer look in 3D? Well, the answer to that question plays out most specifically in the Before the Window evaluation of director Chris Renaud’s summer family blockbuster. In case you were wondering, the Mega Minions steal the 3D show.

With their, shall we say, Marvel-ous abilities, Despicable Me 4’s featured yellow cohorts use their powers to truly pop out of the screen. That’s not the end of the game though, as there are tons of little touches that also break through the screen and into the audience's face. A lot of pointing and gesturing by characters towards the camera helps bolster this feature, in addition to several scenes where someone is running right at the camera.

Beyond The Window - 5/5

Turning our projected gaze inward, the Beyond the Window factor also finds itself tended to rather nicely. The traditional factor of spatial reasoning between characters and their environments is the highlight of Despicable Me 4’s efforts to go beyond the screen. You might even just find yourself getting lost in the detail drawn by that factor, especially when it comes to the fast-paced action sequences.

Quieter moments will allow the observant viewer to enjoy these efforts as well, as Despicable Me 4 never stops doing something interesting with the picture in view. Opening with a high speed mountain drive, and ending with a sing-along most ‘80s babies are going to delight in, the visual canvas does not go to waste for a second.

Brightness Score - 4/5

No matter if you’re watching a colorful computer animated product like Despicable Me 4, or if you’re heading to the theater for a CG/live-action hybrid like Godzilla x Kong’s 3D presentation, Brightness is the enemy! In fact, I’d even go as far as stating that this is the most potentially damaging factor of any 3D conversion, as you kind of have to be able to see what you’re watching in order to truly enjoy (or judge) it.

When putting your glasses on during this sort of premium presentation, the screen automatically tends to automatically take a hit and get a little dimmer. As always, your mileage will vary thanks to this factor depending on your theater of choice to properly maintain its rig. In the case of this Despicable Me 4 screening observed to evaluate its 3D skills, there was only a slight dimming of the picture when slipping on the glasses.

Glasses Off Score - 5/5

Speaking of those 3D glasses you’re using to properly enjoy Despicable Me 4, you’ll obviously notice that once you take them off, the picture returns to its blurry form. When observing a 3D picture in its natural state, the usual ground rule to follow is that the more an image is observed, the better it should be to observe in its unified “glasses on” state.

Despicable Me 4 definitely shows off some fantastic work when it comes to its blurring. The usual 2D anchor points stand out in sharp contrast to the rest of the background being manipulated into a 3D illusion. Wwide shots tend to show off a pretty fantastic degree of blur in moments when 2D elements aren’t necessarily required.

Audience Health - 5/5

There’s a lot of manic movement and action packed into Despicable Me 4’s 94-minute runtime. If this sort of exuberance isn’t transferred into a 3D image properly, this can be a recipe for disaster that has been known to cause nausea in the past. Those worries seem to be far and few in-between in the modern age of 3D, and you’re not going to lose your lunch with this flick.

Even with a sequence that flies through an AVL office full of black-suited Minions causing havoc and scattering paperwork, the motion is pretty fluid and achieves the desired effect. Thanks to the Brightness only being slightly dimmed with your 3D glasses, Despicable Me 4 isn’t going to strain your eyes to the point of feeling tired and impatient.

Final Verdict: 34/35

So does Despicable Me 2’s 3D score record for the franchise stand, or has Despicable Me 4 overtaken it? Well, Gru and company have indeed set the bar even higher, outranking the second installment’s 32/35 score from its contemporary release. Unfortunately, even with an IMAX release strategy in play, there seems to be no showings in that platform’s 3D format available. That's a shame, because an IMAX 3D version of this movie could shine as the best of both worlds.

Alas, if you’re seeing Despicable Me 4, you’re either loyal to this franchise or you’ve got family members who are. In either of those cases, if you’re going to see this movie in theaters, you can at least count on the fact that the 3D picture provides enough thrills to keep even the most jaded audience member somewhat invested.

With that, another chapter in To 3D or Not To 3D history has been written! And I’ll admit, this installment proved me to be a liar, as I’d thought Deadpool and Wolverine would be the next time we’d reunite as friends. With Despicable Me 4 out of the way, and barring any further surprises ahead, the next To 3D evaluation should be the return of the MCU. So if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to polish my claws and practice my best cold shower shouts of rage.

While we’re at it, it’s time to approach the query you could have seen coming a mile away: To 3D or Not To 3D? If you’re curious about how Disney/Pixar’s latest fares as a film, you should read Sarah El-Mahmoud’s official Inside Out 2 review.

But if you’re curious as to whether you should spend that extra 3D money on your ticket or on a new mouthguard for hockey practice, this is the place to be. So let’s get started and take a peek into the 3D of this animated sequel!

Fit Score - 5/5

I have to say, looking back at Inside Out’s To 3D score, the pedigree of the movie’s third dimensional enhancement serves this picture’s purposes rather well. In fact, the story for this sequel, which sees Riley (Kensington Tallman) heading to hockey camp, actually gives the filmmakers a good reason to revisit the premium format magic exhibited in the previous movie.

WIth the market seeing franchises that have engaged in healthy 3D pedigrees in the past eschewing the format altogether, Inside Out 2 is a good example of a series sticking with it, and for good reason, especially when the resulting product is a vast improvement from its predecessor.

Planning & Effort - 4/5

Reviewing my thoughts on the 3D version of Inside Out, I noticed that there were several factors that seemed to take a huge hit in the process. One of the lowest rates factors was indeed Planning & Effort, which absolutely should be a slam dunk when it comes to computer animated projects.

I can definitely say that Inside Out 2 works better in this respect than its predecessor, but even with that in mind, there are some fields that could have been better utilized. This much is especially true when thinking back to the 3D presentation of last year’s The Super Mario Bros. Movie, an Illumination picture that somewhat proves that Pixar’s hold on the field of CGI animation is being challenged quite readily as of late.

Before the Window - 3/5

There’s a moment in Inside Out 2 where a hockey puck is dropped towards the audience’s point of view that shows how the Before the Window factor best works in Disney/Pixar’s latest. We see that effect used a couple of times in the film, and it’s in that moment, and a scattered handful of similarly exciting scenes, that the viewer feels like something is breaking through the window and heading out towards them.

It’s another improvement over Inside Out’s 3D presentation, but even then one can’t help but wish they’d done more to project objects out of the screen. A “brainstorm” sequence is also another showcase for pelting the crowd with flying objects that made me wish this segment was better implemented throughout the movie, and also stands as another visually impressive moment in a mostly ok product.

Beyond the Window - 5/5

The backdrops of Inside Out 2 are definitely worth paying attention to, as the Beyond the Window factor is well served throughout the visual landscape of this second round of Riley. Whether it’s Riley’s cranial command center of emotions, the wider landscape of her mind or even the physical realm of hockey practice, there’s quite a vast field of depth on display at any given moment.

Spatial reasoning is king in this segment, and Inside Out 2 definitely keeps this in mind as it keeps characters crisply separated from their surroundings and each other. During a key breakdown that Joy (Amy Poehler) suffers at an integral point in the narrative, the Before and Beyond fields sparkle together, from projecting the character out into the audience to showing her get a bit smaller and more removed through curling up into a ball.

Brightness Score - 4/5

Brightness is surprisingly not a problem that was presented during the 3D presentation observed for this evaluation. That’s important to denote, as when you see a movie like Inside Out 2, the quality will vary due to various theaters maintaining their equipment to varied degrees.

In the conventional 3D version I attended, there was only a slight dimming while wearing the glasses required for the illusion to properly work. It was another huge step forward from my experience with the original Inside Out, and thankfully not a repeat of that time I experienced technical difficulties during Lightyear’s mostly stellar 3D showing.

Glasses Off Score - 4/5

When testing the brightness of a 3D movie’s picture quality, it’s easy to measure another key standard: the “Glasses Off” factor. Measuring the blur of picture that’s presented to properly achieve the illusion of three dimensional imagery, it also feeds the natural instinct to slip your glasses off during a movie’s running time, if only to give your eyes a break.

Inside Out 2 has the usual suspects in blur measurement present. Shifting 2D anchor points allow the audience to move its eyes to the most visually important factors in any given scene. Meanwhile, the majority of the blur does tend to be presented in the background; with softer focus on the elements that are front and center. Considering how the quality of this product’s Beyond and Before the Screen factors varies, this tracks.

Audience Health - 5/5

Whether it’s a good or bad 3D movie, the last thing any audience wants or needs is any sort of wonkiness that hurts the eyes or causes any sort of discomfort. Over the extended history of modern 3D, it’s amazing to recall the time when movies like Clash of the Titans’ 3D variant could give audiences a sense of nausea.

You’re not going to run into any problems of that sort with Inside Out 2, unless, of course, you’re super sensitive to the 3D effect. It’s a smooth sailing experience that doesn’t strain the eyes, nor does it make you feel as if you’re going to lose your taste for popcorn in the process.

Final Verdict: 30/35

I wouldn’t go as far as saying that Inside Out 2 needs a viewing in 3D, but then again, I’m not exactly one of the biggest fans of the movie in general. That said, you won’t be wasting your money, as it’s a solid experience that does have its moments of crowd pleasing.

Though I will admit, I was disappointed that a film with an IMAX roll-out failed to have the ever increasingly rare IMAX 3D variant on offer. Thankfully, that isn’t the case with Deadpool & Wolverine, and you can bet I already have my opening day tickets for the first screening in large format 3D already booked.

With that knowledge firmly in hand, it’s time that we close down the To 3D or Not To 3D command center, as Inside Out 2 has been thoroughly evaluated down to the last memory. Until next time, remember to recycle your glasses and take it easy on yourself in this ever anxiety-filled world.

If you’re wondering whether or not this cinematic juice is worth the squeeze, you should check out our Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire review. But if you want to discuss whether this MonsterVerse entry is worth the extra ticket money, or if you’re better off crowdfunding a cat bed that looks like the Colosseum in Rome, this is the place. 

Without further delay, and with a generous sponsorship from Gargantua Insurance, let’s discuss whether or not to go 3D with Godzilla x Kong!

Fit Score - 5/5

In terms of pedigree, the entire MonsterVerse saga has seen its cinematic efforts presented in conversions of varying 3D quality. No matter where an individual entry has ranked in the past, the franchise has always been home in the third dimension. However, it just so happens that director Adam Wingard has made the most 3D-friendly entries of the saga, with Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire proving that point yet again. 

Looking back at our evaluation for Godzilla vs. Kong’s 3D presentation, the quality highlighted in that previous writeup was very much still present with the latest chapter of this ongoing saga. And as you’ll see throughout the rest of Godzilla x Kong’s case study, Wingard and company’s magic shine yet again.

Planning & Effort - 5/5

It does not take long at all for Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire to prove why my choice of an IMAX 3D screening was the only way to fly. Showtimes for this format have become increasingly rare, so I’ve tried to make a special effort to seek that format out when able. Much like the time I covered Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’ 3D variant, I felt the need to catch this Titan-sized throwdown that claims it’s “filmed for IMAX.”

That claim is absolutely true thanks to several sequences going full ratio throughout Godzilla x Kong. The 3D quality sparkles even more when you have an entire large format screen to gaze upon. IMAX’s care for Godzilla x Kong’s picture quality is even more apparent when watching the stereo conversion efforts of DNEG displayed through that proprietary format. I’m still convinced that 3D plays way better on an IMAX screen, and once again the MonsterVerse seems to have proven me right.

Before The Window - 5/5

Friends, have you ever wanted to see Godzilla stomp an enemy Titan so hard their blood explodes towards the screen? How about Kong seeming to reach out to the audience, as if he could actually touch us? All of that, and much more, is available when you check out the Before the Window thrills offered in Godzilla x Kong. Having screened the film in IMAX 2D before seeing it again in that format’s 3D presentation, there were moments I could call out as potential pieces that were rich in 3D-NA.

So I’m not that surprised that when Kong sends a pack of vicious monsters falling towards camera in 2D, that scene was given the right amount of love in 3D. Nor was I shocked when I thought Godzilla was going to smash his foot into the audience during the big showdown in Cairo. Though if I had to pick a scene that bridged the kingdoms of Before and Beyond the Window perfectly, it’d have to be the zero-gravity fight!

Beyond The Window - 5/5

As far as Before the Window thrills go, seeing rocks and various Titans in battle floating around a new section of the Hollow Earth realm make for beautiful window smashing results. Going hand in hand with those thrills is the limitless depth that’s drawn in huge, spectacle laden set-pieces that take place in those worlds Beyond the Window. The key factor of spatial reasoning is also expertly manipulated thanks to characters having a healthy amount of distance from their environments, as well as each other. 

A key scene that shows Rebecca Hall, Dan Stevens and Kaylee Hottle lined up in front of a mysterious doorway shows off that simple, but effective victory in this factor of Godzilla x Kong’s 3D extravaganza. Also, if you’re looking for a particular “splash panel” moment that really soaks in this sort of thrill, the emergence of “Pink Godzilla” is the moment you’re going to want to be present for. 

Brightness Score - 4/5

In terms of the MonsterVerse in 3D, Godzilla: King of the Monsters’ To 3D score is still the lowest in the bunch. A good portion of the points lost came from the arch-nemesis of all 3D fans: the Brightness factor. Depending on how your venue of choice maintains their projectors, this is an easy spot to lose ground, as calibrating between 2D and 3D screenings is key for ideal presentation.

Yet again, IMAX comes through in the clutch here, as the Laser IMAX projection system I saw this film presented with was crisp and clear. There was some slight dimming with the glasses on, but nothing near as dim as past MonsterVerse films. Don’t worry, Dan Stevens’ fruit punch red Hawaiian shirt, and the rest of Hollow Earth’s colorful landscape, are still beautifully presented. 

Glasses Off Score - 5/5

When taking your glasses off during a 3D movie, blur is the word when it comes to what you’re going to want to see while watching Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire. Conventionally, the more blur that’s present in the image, the more manipulation there is to create a three-dimensional appearance. Not only is there tons of blur with this Titan-centric showdown, but a new lesson can be learned by you fellow 3D fanatics.

Pay close attention to the differences between scenes with living breathing humans and those with full CGI creatures and environments. With human subjects on the screen, you get more 2D anchor points that help draw a greater visual contrast in the finished product. 

Meanwhile, in full CG scenes, the blur is much more present all around; more than likely due to the fact that we’re observing aspects that can more easily be adapted to cutting edge 3D. You wouldn’t notice the difference unless your glasses were off, but it’s something fun to note.  

Audience Health - 4/5

If it wasn’t for one singular shot at the beginning of Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, the Audience Health score would have been perfect. But alas, the price for a really cool shot of rotating perspective in Hollow Earth is a moment where the audience may feel just a bit uncomfortable. In no way is it a system crasher, but it’s enough of a moment that I had to note it. 

Other than that simple segment, the rest of Godzilla x Kong is audience-friendly and easy on the eyes. Tthat’s through a lot of very dynamic cinematography that chooses some pretty fantastic angles to cover its subjects with. Seriously, the fight scenes between the Titans are intensely kinetic and exciting, and it doesn’t strain your eyes in the process.

Final Verdict - 33/35

Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire is another smashing effort that needs to be seen in IMAX 3D. Movies like this make me truly sad that the company has distanced itself from the format, as this is my preferred option for third-dimensional thrills. I have a feeling that standard 3D would be similarly impressive, but in my opinion, this is the full on experience kaiju movie fans need to treat themselves to. 

If you’re going to see Godzilla x Kong, do it right: see it in IMAX 3D and let the sensory overload wash over you lovingly like I did. Needle drops are sweeter, punches are more brutal and the beauty of certain moments is even grander in this format. 

I think I’ve made my case for this film’s 3D adventure, so with that I’ll take my leave! I’m not sure when we’ll meet again here in the To 3D or Not To 3D labs, so until next time remember… Godzilla may not care about your 3D experience enjoyment, but Gargantua Insurance does. 

Which, in turn, leads us to the question that we’re gathered here to answer. So if you really want to know how this picture plays out as a cinematic experience, you’ll want to head over to Eric Eisenberg’s Aquaman 2 review. However, if you’re ready to see if Jason Momoa’s swan song is worth the extra 3D ticket money, or if you’re better off investing in a medium rare burger and a cold beer, you’re in the right place. 

FIT SCORE - 5/5

On paper, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom is a movie that’s grandfathered into the 3D realm. Seeing as James Wan’s 2018 DC origin story was also presented in this very format, Aquaman’s 3D variant made bringing this sequel into the fold all the easier. Even if we’re in a market where having a killer conversion the first time around doesn’t guarantee getting one in subsequent sequels. (I’m looking at you Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse.)

Thankfully, this big seafaring sequel was brought back for another round of third dimensional thrills. Which, to be honest, already looked like a proper fit for the format when watching Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’s first trailer. That striking overhead shot of Black Manta (Yayha-Abdul Mateen II) opening those huge doors was all I needed to convince me it was 3D-worthy, and I’m glad Warner Bros. made the decision to embrace the format once more.

PLANNING & EFFORT - 4/5

There’s honestly only one field I have a problem with when it comes to Aquaman 2’s 3D conversion, and if you guessed the Brightness, you’re absolutely correct. So while the Planning and Effort score for this movie does get a slight ding because of that fact, I can’t dock this score too hard. The reason being that every other aspect of this movie’s conversion is quite spectacular to behold. 

SDFX Studios (formerly known as Stereo-D) are the folks behind this effort, and the same love and care that was shown in their conversion of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3’s 3D is present once again. Honestly, if it wasn’t for the Brightness factor, this could have been a perfect score; but we’ll discuss that later. 

For now, I have to commend this delightful use of the format, as it feels like James Wan and his crew plotted out the 3D thrills from square one, and knew how to execute them. So let’s get to some specific examples of why I’m so hyped on Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’s premium third-dimensional formatting, despite my constant nemesis rearing its ugly head yet again.

BEFORE THE WINDOW - 5/5

If you notice something particularly impressive literally popping out of the screen during your next 3D movie, it’s part of the Before the Window factor of that very film. But in watching Aquaman 2, a movie that really takes advantage of that aspect, I also noticed another usage of this component that’s not used quite as often: objects entering the frame from above the picture. 

There are several shots of the ship that Black Manta uses to carrying his wicked schemes that really show off both the Before and Beyond Window capabilities in delightful ways. In the context of Before, seeing this massive warship dropping in from the top of the frame and moving into the center is another signal of the massive scope this craft is supposed to occupy.

Pair that with everything from tridents, sonic weapons, mutated bugs, and Black Manta’s eyebeams poking out, and you’ve got a pretty impressive smorgasbord of visual panache. And that’s only the beginning, as Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom also gives us some premium Beyond the Window thrills to dig into.

BEYOND THE WINDOW - 5/5

The depths of the sea is only the beginning of what the DCEU’s swan song has to offer when evaluating the Beyond the Window factor. Honestly, that’s probably the low bar to clear with a movie such as this, as a mostly aquatic caper needs that sort of flash to really suck the audience in. James Wan’s Aquaman sequel definitely has that nailed, as Atlantis is richly painted in infinite depths.

What really pushes this movie into a field that’s a cut above most other 3D conversions is the fact that fast moving scenes don’t disrupt this, or any other aspect of the total third-dimensionally enhanced package. When David Kane, or anyone else, touches the black trident that causes all of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’s troubles, there’s a vortex effect that involves quick motions and a zoom effect.

That description is, quite possibly, the best usage of the Beyond Window illusion presented here; and it’s done so well that it wowed me each time it came up. As far as the usual suspects go, characters and their environments have stellar spatial reasoning; and close-ups of characters like Jason Momoa’s Arthur or Patrick Wilson’s Orm have that extra special ability to convey facial features with depth as well.

BRIGHTNESS - 2/5

Folks, you knew this wasn’t going to be a total love fest. I prefaced this Aquaman 2 evaluation by saying that the Brightness was especially problematic, and it’s time to dive into just how bad it is. For a movie that has a lot of scenes involving glacial darkness, and presents that aspect pretty pretty early on, it isn’t long before this movie shows the audience its literal dark side. 

As always, you need to be sure you’re going to a theater that you trust to present 3D movies properly. Not everyone maintains their equipment properly when shifting between 2D and 3D presentations, and I also have to note that this is the same theater, and even the same auditorium, I saw Lightyear’s 3D presentation in.

Seeing as I had similar issues with the brightness in that viewing, I’m starting to think I’ve found another local venue I’m going to actively try to avoid for future 3D showings. So in this particular case, I’m thinking Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’s Brightness issues in this showing weren’t so much the fault of the conversion efforts. 

GLASSES OFF - 5/5

Let’s get back to the good news, shall we? We can’t sit here all day, glasses in hand, holding our heads in frustration, right? While we’re on the subject of glasses, watching a 3D movie like Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom is going to tempt us to take off our special facial furniture from time to time. There’s just something about looking at a blurry screen magically turn into a 3D image that excites us, I suppose.

And that blur is particularly strong, both in presentation and shift in focus, when observing Aquaman 2. A healthy amount of non-aligned visuals is present in both wide shots and close-ups, giving us that traditional double vision that we all know from this format. And if you like to look at characters/objects shift from a more 2D perspective into fuzzier 3D views, that’s another fun thing to try and spot.

AUDIENCE HEALTH - 5/5

Action is king of the ocean with Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, which means there’s a potential for thrills, such as massive ship battles and fast paced close quarters combat, to make things interesting. And by "interesting," I mean these are the sort of sights that have made people queasy in the past; something that thankfully doesn’t happen all that often. 

3D has taken pretty huge leaps and bounds, and Aquaman 2 shows off that advancement rather well. You’re not going to have a problem when it comes to the motion of the picture, and even the darkness of this particular showing didn’t cause much of a strain when it came to actually watching it. So feel free to grab that popcorn.

FINAL VERDICT: 31/35

Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom may be the end of the DCEU, but it certainly sends things off on a visually striking front. It’s bittersweet to have this much fun, only to be reminded that the upcoming DC movies will be moving on into newer waters. 

With that in mind, I absolutely recommend seeing the goofy, colorful, high action fun that is this movie. Come to think of it, you might be well served if you seek out the extremely limited IMAX 3D format for this wild ride. Though I haven't observed that variant myself, past experiences like Transformers: Rise of the Beasts have left me feeling that it's still the best way to 3D at the movies.

And there you have it, loyal readers! 2023’s final To 3D or Not To 3D is in the books, and it’s a fine sight to see. Thanks as always for checking in with us to see where you should be spending your hard earned ticket money, and don’t forget to jump into the archives to relive highs and lows of 3D past! Until we meet again, have a healthy and safe holiday, and a prosperous new year!

And with that comes an opportunity to ask one of our favorite questions: To 3D or Not To 3D? If you’re curious about how this picture works as a narrative experience, our own Eric Eisenberg has you covered with his The Marvels review proper. 

However, if you’re looking to determine whether this adventure is worth the extra ticket money, or if you should use those hard earned dollars towards the adoption fee for a Flerkitten, this is the place to be. So let's get a good look at the 3D behind The Marvels, and see what stands out!

Fit Score - 3/5

It’s hard to turn away an upcoming Marvel movie when it comes to 3D conversion efforts. Disney at large seems to be one of the last steady practitioners of third-dimensional presentations, which leads to, in the best case, results like Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3’s (inter)stellar 3D presentation,. That said, I don’t think The Marvels is a slam dunk fit for the 3D format.

While we’ve seen other movies use this premium experience to create surprisingly effective and intimate stories, director Nia DeCosta’s entry into Marvel canon could have gone either way. While there was potential for the powers and action on display in the trailers to wow the crowd, it doesn’t end up shining through the entire picture’s execution.

Planning & Effort - 3/5

Per what seems to be the industry standard, The Marvels is a post-conversion 3D product, as the film was not shot in native 3D. It’s a rarity to find a movie that’s shot in that method, and the difference shows when you compare a picture like this to something like Avatar: The Way of Water’s native 3D product. It'd be nice to see that sort of boom taking place again, but for now, post-conversion is the ruler of the land.

The conversion efforts of SDFX Studios and Seecubic are admirable, and the work shows by overcoming some of the most common stumbling blocks of 3D films. But for the impressive work with Brightness and the overall smooth work The Marvels shows off, it loses points in some of the more spectacle driven portions of this evaluation. 

Before The Window - 2/5

There’s only one real factor that stands out in the Before the Window factor in The Marvels’ 3D presentation: Flerkittens. The tentacles of mother cat Goose and her little Flerkittens are the one visual element that really takes advantage of throwing things into the audience. 

One of the bright spots of this story’s course of events is an extended sequence where Flerkens are an important plot device, leading to a lot of family-friendly tentacle action. I guess this is part of how Goose got her own poster for The Marvels, as the marketing campaign seemed to lean on the Flerken and her Flerkittens for plot-related reasons. 

However, having a Flerkitten literally eating the camera doesn’t cover up the fact that The Marvels doesn’t do much else to dazzle in this respect. This is even more upsetting when taking into account how impressive the MCU trio's powers are and how much they could pop in proper 3D.

Beyond The Window - 3/5

Things don’t get too much brighter for the Beyond the Window factor of The Marvels. Make no mistake, there’s a decent amount of dimension-breaching, power-wielding action in the latest Marvel Cinematic Universe romp. It’s just that the visual canvas of 3D isn’t used to its full potential to enhance those pieces of the film. 

There’s clear and crisp spatial reasoning at work that separates the characters from their backgrounds, and each other, so it’s not like things are totally flat. What stands out here though is a severely selective usage of the type of immersion that’s offered when drawing seemingly unlimited depth in the best usages of this format.

When there is an effort to really showcase such lush backgrounds, it does result in some of the better visual pops in the film. It's inconsistent and frustrating when trying to lose yourself in the 3D picture. 

Brightness Score - 5/5

You’d think that the Brightness factor would be an easy space for picking off some points, as this is a traditional arch-nemesis to the 3D experience. Prepare to be surprised, as I’m here to tell you that The Marvels actually excels in this field, as it’s pretty bright and clear as a bell.

Even when comparing the full brightness of the picture being projected to the glasses-on experience, the natural dimming doesn’t wash the picture in greyness. Of course, your mileage may still vary, as theaters vary in how they maintain their projectors. 

Glasses Off Score - 3/5

There is a lot of variation when it comes to the Glasses Off experience of The Marvels, and you’re definitely going to be tempted to check it out for yourself. That’s just a natural effect of the 3D ecosystem, as even the best experience will still leave you with moments where you want to peek out from behind your glasses. 

Were you do that with The Marvels, you’d see some moments of intense blur, particularly with wide shots on the various planets. Meanwhile, there are also some close-up moments that naturally leave a more 2D looking anchor more towards the center of frame to show off the rest of the 3D blur. 

Typically, the more blur there is, the more image manipulation there is at work to create the 3D effect. So the varied blur of The Marvels' picture seems to be the source of its inconsistent Before/Beyond The Window factor.

Audience Health - 5/5

The overall audience health factor to The Marvels is also something to celebrate. Action adventures that feature a lot of kinetic motion such as this tend to have moments here and there where the picture wonks out. That isn't the case with what's shown here. 

To its credit, The Marvels' battle scenes don't go overboard with any sort of shaky cam., nor do they fly with cuts so rapid it might disrupt the 3D effect, as we saw most recently with The Little Mermaid's 3D rendition of "Under The Sea." So if you're even the slightest bit prone to nausea in 3D, you're in good hands.  

Final Verdict: 24/35

Even with the power sets of Captain Marvel, Ms. Marvel and Captain Monica Rambeau being impressive feats that seem cut out for 3D, The Marvels falls short of being an enthusiastically endorsed experience. It's especially a bummer in light of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 being as fantastic as it was in this format, as Marvel Studios seems to be consistently inconsistent with how it handles this premium format. 

Alas, if you're a 3D fanatic like I am, I suggest you potentially seek out the ever-rare IMAX 3D showtime. That provider's 3D conversions still seem to present a gold standard, as exhibited in Transformers: Rise of the Beasts' 3D presentation. At the very least, see this one at a theater you know you can trust with your 3D needs. With that, we're officially wrapped on this installment of To 3D or Not To 3D! 

Please remember to recycle your glasses and wrappers on the way out of the auditorium, and if you haven't already, check out our rundown of The Marvels' ending. There's some pretty wild stuff to discuss as we wait on the future of the MCU, as well as our next 3D evaluation.

We won’t be discussing how director Ben Wheatley’s movie works as a pure cinematic experience. If you want to see what our own Eric Eisenberg thought of the film, you can head to CinemaBlend’s Meg 2 review. But for those of you who are ready for third dimensional excitement, then slip on your 3D glasses and prepare to dive into these waters with us as we take a look at how much Meg you get for your 3D buck! 

Fit Score - 5/5

Oh wow, has it really been that long since I logged The Meg’s To 3D score?! Five years can surely change a franchise, especially when the usual legacy card doesn’t work in judging whether Meg 2: The Trench is a good fit or not. Judging by the previous score of 26/35, and my own comments on how the first film was “a middling 3D experience,” I can’t say that this sequel is a good fit on previous pedigree alone.

However, I can say that Meg 2 is a way better fit for 3D based on actual execution. This sequel is a vast improvement in how this series actually uses the medium. Lessons were indeed learned, and what results is a movie that’s an absolute blast in terms of its third dimensional prowess.

It's not always a given that a series will consistently incorporate 3D into its future (I'm looking at you, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse and Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One). But I'm pleased when something like Meg 2: The Trench comes along and fully understands how to keep 3D in play, with substantial improvements added in as well.

Planning & Effort - 4/5

Fins up to the folks at DNeg for their fantastic work on Planning & Effort when it came to Meg 2: The Trench. It really feels like this team looked at the errors of the past and put in a serious effort not to repeat those mistakes with this next chapter of adapting author Steve Alten’s adventure novels. 

With the exception of some minor bumps in the road, you should have a fun time enjoying Megalodons chomping on other creatures and swallowing whole mouthfuls of human tourists. The 3-DNA is strong in this one, as I could imagine watching a scene where Jason Statham impales a Meg in 2D and knowing it’d look amazing in 3D. Having actually seen that scene, and in that very format, that assumption is proven absolutely correct. Which leads to our first round of critiques!

Before The Window - 5/5

Remember the Tyrannosaurus Rex you saw get eaten in Meg 2: The Trench’s trailer? That scene opens the movie with a rather powerful statement, as we see one of nature’s most iconic predators bested by a Megalodon. Say what you will about that moment, but it’s a pretty shocking open to this creature feature, with blood and water shooting at the audience almost immediately. 

That's one hell of an introduction to the movie’s 3D component, making a strong impression in the Before the Window factor. This is a category that can be criminally underused in some films, but Meg 2 is not such a project, as it has so much to share with the audience by throwing things into their metaphorical laps. Again, there’s a scene where Mr. Statham impales a Megalodon, and it includes nice lingering shots of the blade poking out of the creature… and right into your face.

Guns point out at the viewer in a way that’s just as impressive as whenever Optimus Prime would aim a cannon at the screen in Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’ 3D presentation. That’s a simple factor that many third dimensional enhancements love to employ. This is Meg 2: The Trench though, and that means there are tons of sea creatures, and the jump scares that involve them, that get to float into your field of vision beyond the window. 

Beyond The Window - 5/5

Bubbles, my dudes; bubbles in Meg 2 are a fantastic element that help portray the depth of picture in Ben Wheatey’s big follow up. It’s been a pretty big year for aquatic 3D antics, as even The Little Mermaid’s 3D score saw depth under the sea lend a huge hand to its overall score. 

And when you’re as underwater as this Megalodon-centric adventure happens to be, that depth can make or break the illusion. Even something as simple as a viewing window or the glass of a diving helmet portrays the proper sort of separation needed to sell what you’re seeing on screen. Plus, the standard separation of characters from their surroundings, and each other, is definitely on display throughout.

Scenes that see Jason Statham’s Jonas Taylor floating in the sea are also pretty amazing, as the effect of the cameras bobbing in and out of waves lends some extra pizazz to those scenes. Capping off the style points in this section is the fact that not only are bubbles used for fun depth perception play, but so are the subtitles. Touches like that really bring home an experience like Meg 2: The Trench, and they tie together rather well with the effects that jump off of the screen.

Brightness Score - 4/5

Both entries in The Meg series have a mix of scenes that take place in broad daylight, as well as in darker settings with colorful accents. Director Jon Turtletaub’s 2018 franchise origin story seemed to have a problem with those daytime scenes in particular, and I’m happy to report that Meg 2 doesn’t have that same problem. 

The picture is just a little dim, which is the norm as putting tinted glasses on naturally brings the lighting down a little. While your mileage may vary, as not every theater keeps their 3D equipment properly calibrated, Meg 2: The Trench doesn’t have any major problems making the picture unwatchable.

This is most impressively highlighted in early scenes at the bottom of the ocean, when sharks and other creatures emerge from the gloom in rather menacing fashion. Executed incorrectly, this could have been so dark that you wouldn’t be able to make out the Meg in front of you. But as it stands, you can see right into the gaping maw of these beasts even in the pitch black depths.

Glasses Off Score - 5/5

How blurry is Meg 2: The Trench? It’s so blurry that if you take your 3D glasses off during a scene with subtitles, you really get a feeling for what’s being done. And let’s face it, one of the constant temptations of 3D film viewing is to take those glasses off and look at the blurry image on display. Anyone who’s ever read a 3D comic book can attest to that fact as well.

Blur is strongly present throughout the film, as the usual manipulations draw contrast between specific 2D-looking anchor points and the blurry components meant to stand out. Seriously though, I take my glasses off at random intervals in movies like Meg 2 to make sure that the blur is even still present. 

Seeing the subtitles getting in on the fun made my day, as weird as that sounds. Playing around with a component as simple as that shows a degree of real care when putting a 3D presentation together.

Audience Health - 4/5

Unfortunately, there is a little bit of 3D wonk when it comes to some of the action scenes in this thrill ride. Earlier moments where Jason Statham is wrecking shop with a ship full of polluting bad guys move a little too fast, causing the 3D effect to confuse the eye in the midst of the action.

This doesn’t happen often, or to a movie-breaking extent, but at times Meg 2: The Trench does go a little too hard when it comes to some moments of fast paced happenings. Other than that, you’ve got an almost entirely smooth experience waiting for you with this third dimensional treat.

Final Verdict - 32/35

I don’t know if Meg 2 is the most improved leap I’ve seen in a 3D franchise’s efforts, but it’s certainly one of the best. My notes are minor, as there are certain pieces that could be tightened up a little bit. But compared to The Meg’s previous foray into 3D, this new round of mayhem is much more enjoyable to behold. If you’re going to see Meg 2: The Trench, you should definitely see it in 3D to give the whole ride that extra oomph. 

Come to think of it, I’d like to make another suggestion to all of you To 3D fans out there. If you’re looking for another double feature in the spirit of Barbenheimer, I’d suggest you not only see Meg 2 in 3D, but follow it with a 3D showing of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem. Since we didn’t do an official evaluation of that film, I feel the need to suggest that lovingly crafted experience as another must see in 3D. 

With all of that on the table, it’s time to close the book on this installment of To 3D or Not To 3D! I’m not quite sure when we’ll all meet again, as the market is still touch and go with what it delivers in this format. So I’ll just leave it at I’ll see you all around when the time comes to put on those glasses and leap eyes first into whatever 3D world comes next. Until then, dear readers!