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Michael Bay's Letter to 3D Projectionists & His Plea for Fans to Go 3D
by Alex Billington
June 26, 2011
Source: Deadline
It all comes down to this. In just two days, Michael Bay's final, epic sequel, Transformers: Dark of the Moon, will hit theaters in glorious 3D, wrapping up his trilogy of Transformers movies. The reviews are saying it's one of the best action movies this summer, that Bay redeems himself, and also that it has some of the best cinematic 3D anyone has ever seen. But, of course, 3D has its problems, one being how dark it looks once you wear polarizing 3D glasses. Well, Michael Bay has taken it upon himself and written a letter to projectionists and even issued a brighter digital 3D print to hopefully minimize any issues with his movie.
Most moviegoers have probably already heard about Bay's recent plea to go 3D and go brighter on 3D with Dark of the Moon, because he's done a damn good job of making sure everyone has heard, but his letter to projectionists just popped up online thanks to Deadline (via The Film Stage) after details from it were first reported by NY Times. In it (you can see it just beneath this), Bay asks that they prevent "dark dingy" 3D by making sure all the projectors are at proper brightness. He also mentions the "Platinum 6 version" of the movie, which is a brighter digital 3D print sent only to theaters capable of projecting "6-foot lamberts."
As revealed previously, these special prints which will be showing with all digital 3D presentations starting Tuesday night, have been mastered and color graded for the extra brightness. "We have created a special version with extra sharpening, color and contrast. It is a superior look in the format. The brighter the image, the brain processes in a different way and the result sharpens and makes it more vibrant." Awesome. It sounds like this is truly the way to see it and I can't wait to experience the Michael Bay-3D with Dark of the Moon. Letters to projectionists seem to be the in thing, as Terrence Malick sent one with Tree of Life as well.
Here is the letter that Michael Bay included with prints of Transformers: Dark of the Moon being sent out. The photo comes from Deadline. More information on the brighter 3D prints can also be found at NYTimes.
Bay also took a moment to thank all of the fans in a message on his blog MichaelBay.com. Not only did he thank them for allowing him to "have fun with the Transformers franchise," but he strongly encourages everyone to go see Transformers: Dark of the Moon in 3D (and no other way!). Here's a piece of his note:
"I just want to take the opportunity to thank all the fans around the world for letting me have fun with the Transformers franchise. It has been a wonderful opportunity to have worked with about 4000 crew members around the world. These artists are some of the very best in the entire film business. I'm honored to have had you work along side me. We had an amazing time.
'Dark of the Moon' has some of the most technically challenging sequences ever shot. And shot in 3D. I must urge you to find the very best theatre and see this movie in that format. 3D was a forethought, not an afterthought in this movie. I'm glad Jim Cameron and Steven Spielberg really convinced me to shoot in this new technology. We used and invented many new techniques to make the 3D sharper, brighter and more color contrast. I think theatre owners heard their audience that they need to respect the specs of the projectors and not dim the bulbs to save money."
Damn straight! That also goes right along with one of the best parts of Bay's letter: "Projectionists are of ultimate importance because your expertise defines the audience's experience." I really think people forget how important proper projection is in making the theatrical experience perfect. I think my respect for Michael Bay is growing, and honestly, I can't frickin' wait to see Dark of the Moon, even though I've still got Revenge of the Fallen in the back of my mind. But this time it's about the 3D and from all we've heard, all the feedback so far, it sounds like Bay may have even topped the first one. But if anything, I'm just hoping to be entertained. "Hopefully you will have as much fun watching this movie as we all had making it." Me, too.
Michael Bay's Transformers: Dark of the Moon hits theaters in 3D/IMAX everywhere on June 29th!
66 Comments
1
3D looks and feels terrible. I hate every part of it; not just "darkness." The only reason directors and theaters want us desperately to buy in is so they can make an extra 3 bucks a ticket. Screw this.
Nick on Jun 26, 2011
2
I hate how theaters don't even bother to change the lenses for regular 2D movies. I saw XMEN First Class in a theater that left the 3D lens on. It was super dark and I was super pissed.....
Chris Amaya on Jun 26, 2011
3
wow, he is a nutcase. This fake 3D is a gimmick at best and a pure money grab.
Anonymous on Jun 26, 2011
4
Yes, 3D added in post is a money grab, but I honestly feel that movies shot with 3D cameras, like a large part of Transformers 3 was, can look great and take the experience a step further IF the 3D is actually used to show depth and the shots are composed for 3D. The technology isn't the problem. The problem is studios trying to make a quick buck by calling their 2D movies 3D and in the process ruin the tech's reputation.
Andreas Climent on Jun 27, 2011
5
Ya your dumb
Adam L on Jun 27, 2011
6
When you graduate elementary school, and have mature quite a bit, then your trolling might amount to something. Until then, grow up a little bit kiddo.
Anonymous on Jun 27, 2011
7
haha trolling, ya ur apparently too cool for me.. hows LOTR in your moms basement right now
Adam L on Jun 27, 2011
8
Lol, keep failing at life. Do the world a favor and jump off a cliff.
Anonymous on Jun 27, 2011
9
Zanpher, why did you go straight for the kill yourself line, i was expecting some creativity from you, damn pretty dissapointed. then again maybe i just got you good, who knows? enjoy the basement, save me some lotion. let me kno when you put the 2nd LOTR in
Adam L on Jun 27, 2011
10
I have my tickets for IMAX 3D Tuesday night. I really want to see this in IMAX but I'm pretty annoyed at how it's only in IMAX 3D....As much as Mr. Bay has done a 180 on his feelings towards 3D, there's nothing he can do or say that will change my opinion on the format. I miss regular IMAX 2D. I feel that it is a complete waste of money and a complete annoyance. Avatar's "3D" was lame, Tron Legacy's "3D" didn't even pop out at me, and Thor's "3D" was pointless. Stop screwing us out of our money. I hope Hollywood gets the hint with the recent statistics released on how 3D ticket sales have dropped.
Chris A. on Jun 26, 2011
11
I am really excited to see this in 3D. Let's hope Michael Bay really pulled it off, because that's what I'd really, really like to see. Bang for the buck!
Felix on Jun 26, 2011
13
You will after transformers
Adam L on Jun 27, 2011
14
For those of us with certain eye problems, sometimes we can't process the full effect of 3D. Hell, I've tried and felt underwhelmed. Plus wearing 3D glasses over glasses diminishes the experience. Give me a great clear print of a 2D movie and I'm more than satisfied. And as a bonus I'm not paying extra for a ticket.
Christophereo on Jun 26, 2011
15
If I ever see you I will buy you a beer. I feel the same way
Chris A. on Jun 26, 2011
16
Ditto. With one eye worse than the other I have never even bothered "testing" to see if 3D works for me. 2D all the way for me.
The Moo on Jun 27, 2011
17
Sure I'll got see it in 3D Mr. Bay. Right after you refund me for the tickets I bought for Transformers 2. Pathetic! I'm passing on your crap from here on out.
Rp1n on Jun 26, 2011
18
Michael Bay just wants us geeks to pay more money to see his film so he can make a lot of money and move on to kill another franchise. Does Michael Bay party and chill with us fan boys...? I think not. Spielberg firing Megan Fox. BOOM. I'm done with those 2.
Ticketmaster on Jun 26, 2011
19
Yeah, I'd have given Bay the pass on firing Fox... if he hadn't swapper her out with another plastic doll. The TNA bullshit detracts from the action... at least in 1 Fox's character wasn't a worthless accessory.
Anonymous on Jun 27, 2011
20
No he wants to redeem himself from Transformers 2, and he actually wants the audience to enjoy a real 3d experience
Adam L on Jun 27, 2011
21
STFU, Michael Bay!
Optimus on Jun 26, 2011
22
I've got my tickets for the movie in 3D, can't wait to see it. Bay has his ups and downs but he is one of the best damn action directors out there. Glad to hear that they are doing what they can to make the 3D experience the best possible. If a movie is shot in 3D, and shot well, the sense of depth really does create a more immersive experience. The scene with the skydivers in the trailer looked badass in 3D, so with a bit of luck, the rest of the movie does too!
Andreas Climent on Jun 27, 2011
23
Bay is a contradicting bastard first he said he didn't like 3D now he is all about it?? what the hell man?? plus the 3d glasses are as uncomfortable as megan fox not being in the 3rd transformers movie 🙁
Anonymous on Jun 27, 2011
24
ya its cuz james cameron helped him on shooting it so he likes 3d now
Adam L on Jun 27, 2011
25
"The reviews are saying it's one of the best action movies this summer" Every review I've read says it's the same pointless garbage. Hearing it's better than the 2nd should not be considered praise, because the 2nd Transformers has become the new low to compare other movies to. Every time you guys fall into this trap where the movie sounds like crap when first announced, then a trailer is released that makes it look awesome, and then the movie turns out to be as awful as it originally sounded. I'm excited for this to be added to the list of Avatar, Tron: Legacy, and Battle: LA where this effect also happened. It amazes me that I've been getting flack for criticizing this movie when six months ago all of you were too. Ignore the trailers, the people that make them are very talented at making them look awesome (Battle: LA again). Just remember this is the third movie in a series based on action figures. Also remember that it was made by a director regarded as one of the worst in the industry and that the series is the epitome of popcorn trash. Movies like Super 8 and Inception have proved summer movies can have brains. I'll see all of you on friday in the sound off section where you will almost definitely be complaining about how much this movie sucked.
Moon on Jun 27, 2011
26
I think the soundoff section for this movie will be Wednesday morning 🙂
Chris Amaya on Jun 27, 2011
27
I have never and will never go see a 3D showing of a movie until it can be watched without the damn glasses.
Mark Lair on Jun 27, 2011
28
Stanley Kubrick asked for at least 15 foot-lamberts for Barry Lyndon, 15 at least! Bay will settle for 6? Standards, people... http://somecamerunning.typepad.com/some_came_running/2011/06/test.html
Kevin Jahi Johnson on Jun 27, 2011
29
Lol, the guy needs to stop acting like hes pushing the boundaries of filmmaking or something and enjoy the fact thats reaped millions from his "fans". Motherfucker can direct some action, thats about it otherwise he needs to shut the hell up.
Cody W. on Jun 27, 2011
30
As long as the 3D is used for visual depth and not shit flying at the screen, I will see it in 3D. Just realized something. What if this is all a ploy just to crank up 3D sales. I am so out. I'M ON TO YOU MICHAEL BAY,
Angry Chief on Jun 27, 2011
31
cant believe how disrespectful a lot of people are towards a filmmaker as Bay. So much hate and so little knowledge of what goes into making a film like this. I personally know that what he pulls of almost no one in this industry is capable of. Sure its not the greatest story and character development.. but thats not really what his movies intend to focus on. Its about awesome shots and great action, just entertainment. His level of detail in what he actually makes on set, his precision of delivering amazing plates, seriously blows my mind. I have tons of respect for the guy
Jaja on Jun 27, 2011
32
Bay disrespect's plot, and character development on favor of explosions...its really hard to respect a director like Bay.
Xerxexx on Jun 27, 2011
33
No he doesn't. It's really easy to follow the plots in his films, I"m surprised people like you have such a hard time. Maybe it's you who gets distracted by explosions.
Rashad on Jun 27, 2011
34
HA HA HA!!! You defend Bay's plots by how easy they are to follow, then admonish Xerxexx by assuming he's too dumb to follow them. Seriously though, Xerxexx; your missing the plot point (pun intended). He doesn't disrespect plot, he makes easy cheesy fun on purpose, an usually does a good job at it. He tends to muck it all up in the editing boot and disrespects, if not destroys continuity.
Anonymous on Jun 27, 2011
35
Good point, Akira. I jumped the gun. Assumed too harshly.
Xerxexx on Jun 27, 2011
36
That was good Rashad, twisting what I said. Kudos. 58 explosions in 5 seconds every 2 scenes makes my head go numb. Are they good explosions? yep. Do they add anything? Some times not all the time. Is Bay too dependent of Explosions? Yep.
Xerxexx on Jun 27, 2011
37
I always burn 3-D and I love doing it so: Fuck 3-D is a gimmicky pain in the ass. Its just annoying, that is the bottom line.
Xerxexx on Jun 27, 2011
38
If its done right it does add to the fun/experience, but it is a gimmick none the less. Like IMAX and auto-tune.
Anonymous on Jun 27, 2011
39
I can actually enjoy Imax...its just 3-D is not something that should become the norm for cinema. Some people have issues with the format and it interferes with the movie going experience.
Xerxexx on Jun 27, 2011
40
agree, xerxexx! 3D is an annoying gimmick and i have NO intentions of ever using it.
Anonymous on Jun 27, 2011
41
indeed!
Xerxexx on Jun 27, 2011
42
i love 3d,ill be there this wednesday in imax3d.
Judas on Jun 27, 2011
43
@Alex:disqus: Just a suggestion: If Transformers 3 really is looking as good as you say, you should knock up a quick article that offers a short overview of the story from Transformers 2. So that those of us that skipped Trans 2 because of the terrible reviews it got can be filled in on the story and whatever new technology etc cropped up in the second movie before going in to the third.
Shikaka on Jun 27, 2011
44
Uhh everything that happened in 2 umm un-happened in 2. SPOILER ALERT: Optimus died then got brought back, so did Sam and Devastator (technically, cuz v.1 died in the first movie). Bay turned on himself (no fake size/matter shifting, e.g. tiny cassete turns into 8 foot vulture) with Fembot-deceptacon. Cheap plot-line about new main villain has to be kill by a "prime", Optimus is the last "prime" so he 'needs' to be revived is rendered bull cookies with new Sentinel Prime character in 3. Arcee is referred to as "twins" despite being comprimised of 3 bikes, then forgotten. Niggabots, a promising gimmick of 2 comic-relief autobots that combine into 1 cool ass old-school truck turns into 2 "ghetto talking" nitwits that turn into 2 versions the latest subcompact from GM. LOTS of yelling and screaming, think: a shitty metal band musical. Skyfire is the fastest airplane ever built, a pinnacle of American engineering... yet has a heavy British accent. Or was it Australian. Either way he was really drunk, fell down a lot, and rambled on and on; yet Starscream is apparently mute now. Oh and the most important thing that happened was... KITTEN CALENDAR KITTEN CALENDAR KITTEN CALENDAR KITTEN CALENDAR KITTEN CALENDAR KITTEN CALENDAR KITTEN CALENDAR KITTEN CALENDAR
Anonymous on Jun 27, 2011
45
people complain that 3D is just a gimmick but if someone tries to use it differently then people just complain that it`s not gimmicky enough.
Loser on Jun 27, 2011
46
Yeah brighten it up baby. Wonder how Rosie looks like in 3D.
Ryan on Jun 27, 2011
47
Letter to Michael Bay - Grow up and stop making kids films littered with adult content... and be grateful you are in such a position to be making films at all! Be grateful and stop whining!
Dominic on Jun 27, 2011
48
Yeah, We don`t want the movies to be shown the best way possible :), We want smaller screens dimmer movies and please show em out of focus and replace the sound with static and perhaps pay people to scream and talk into mobile phones to.
Loser on Jun 27, 2011
49
Michael Bay is micromanaging the theatres now? Whodathunk!?
Dead Robot on Jun 27, 2011
50
Who cares, That means its obviously gonna be good
Adam L on Jun 27, 2011
51
I feel sorry for the CLOWNS who will actually pay ANYTHING to watch the garbage this man makes. yeah, he does good action, but it is a serious detriment to the G1 cartoon to say all Transformers constitutes is action, models that can't act and horrendous attempts at comedy. As for 3D? Use your brains. He loves money and wants to convince you to pay the HIGHEST price possible to see the movie. Bay is a hack and should his blonde locks as far away from the franchise as possible.
Havehope on Jun 27, 2011
52
Watch the Island
Adam L on Jun 27, 2011
53
I'm seeing the film in IMAX and I believe 3D always looks better on the bigger screen.
Sean Kelly on Jun 27, 2011
54
I believe in Bay, and am one of the few intelligent movie-goers that actually love his movies. Yeah, 3-D for the most part is gimmicky cash grab. Most films add 3-D to a movie just to get an extra three bucks and nothing in the movie pops out of the screen...AT ALL (I'm looking at you Green Lantern). But if the movie was constructed in 3-D at the beginning like Avatar was (lackluster movie; amazing 3-D) then it might just be worth the extra cash.
Lamar on Jun 27, 2011
55
I can't just "turn off my brain" and enjoy "special effects". I think I'm far past my boners for "cool! that shit looked awesome in 3D". I don't know. Is it weird that I have NO opinions or second thoughts whatsoever for movies that push state of the art tech effects instead of solid acting, creative (believable) stories, brilliant directing strokes and those subtle little things that require everything you can muster to notice them? I know that a "cinephile" traditionally will watch anything. But I do consider myself a connoisseur of sorts. And I avoid many, many films. So I guess I'm a snob. And it feels fucking great. This movie will be shit.
Cracky on Jun 27, 2011
56
This I can respect
Loser on Jun 27, 2011
57
I don't know why I'm bitching anyways...I have no intentions of seeing Transformers 3. The lack of Fox is upsetting...and this new girl looks...well bad.
Xerxexx on Jun 27, 2011
58
It really does say something about the low expectation levels of a film where more ink and type is expended on the format that it's being shown in rather than the actual story and film itself. That unfortunately is the knub of the problem with 3D. All sizzle and no sausage. Avatar started it and Bay is just running wih it.
Payne by name on Jun 27, 2011
59
They still need to make an actual TRANSFORMERS movie since a good was has yet to be made. Oh and its good to be back in the land of the living! was away for a while with cancer, had the surgery and a lot of colon removed and now im back.
Jimmy Love on Jun 28, 2011
60
I've enjoyed my fair share of Bay movies, if anything for the way he can capture badass explosions, but I still feel he's a cinematographer that got lucky to become a director but he's such a flip flopper artist. P.s. Yeah I don't plan to see Transformers3 after the insultingly horrible excuse of a movie that is Transformers2 and although I think Fox is all looks and no acting talent but she shouldn't have been replaced in the story like they have. I mean who in the fucking world that looks like her would date Shia if he's not rich and or famous? Come on Hollywood (Bay), one suspension of disbelief at a time. They should've had her killed or something and brought in a down to earth looking replacement or just skip that whole relationship jazz all together, am I right?.
Johnny Neat on Jun 27, 2011
61
No. I'm done with 3D. I saw Avatar and Megamind in 3D. That was enough. I don't need no stinking glasses!
woodge on Jun 28, 2011
62
After seeing Transformers 3 in 3d i would say i will watch it again but in 2d and my positive feelings towards 3d is now gone seen 6 movies in 3d Avatar was the only one with good 3d. So i will never pay for a movie in 3D again. F_ck 3D
Loser on Jun 28, 2011
63
Well I dont know what you're talking about because I thought the 3D was absolutley breathtaking. My girlfriend and I couldn't beleive how real everything looked and the 3d, for once, enhanced what was on screen
Adam L on Jun 29, 2011
64
The 9 o'clock show is starting in 10 min!! I'm back center, can't wait!! 3d movie of the year!
Adam on Jun 29, 2011
65
I'm sick of hearing pussys whining about 3D. Just go to a screen that's playing 2D! There is a choice! Sheeesh!!!
Jedibilly on Jun 29, 2011
66
Thor was only shown in 3d in my country and there is 2 2D screens of transformers in the whole country now so the option you got over here see it in 3D or don`t see it at all
Loser on Jun 29, 2011
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