U2

It’s a technology that many people have heard of, but few may have seen. To me, 3D technology brings back memories of early Jaws films and those 3D Rollercoaster films, where people stood in a cinema watching the
ride, and even sometimes falling over.

I had never actually been to either of those 3D experiences, I just heard people talking about them, and also the funny looking cardboard glasses with a blue and green lense. I had also never watched a U2 concert before, so to do both at once (albeit in a cinema) was an exciting prospect.

I had always heard that a U2 gig was something to behold, one of those shows that everyone should try and see. The thing that intrigued me, was that with more and more people experiencing HD TV and HD films, and virtually having cinemas in their own front room, would a 3D show would be one step up? Would it be the next best thing from actually going to the gig?

The film is taken from their Vertigo Tour last year and most of the footage from two concerts in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Right from the start, you could sense it would be a visual feast. The words U23D come out of the screen. I thought I heard faint gasps, but on reflection I think it was just me.

As the camera swoops over the crowd towards the stage, the 3D imaging begins to really show its worth. The hands of the crowd sweep past you and as you get to the stage you are instantly hit by the placing of the band members. Bono genuinely looks in front of the Edge and it feels like there is space between them. (I know that is what it is meant to feel like but I was sceptical before I went). Anyone at the front of shot looks like they are projected out from the screen. I am sure Bono is there, a matter of metres away from me. Instinct says 'reach out’, but I remember where I am.

There are also other moments when Bono reaches towards the camera, his hand reaching out from the cinema screen. In addition he swings a mic stand and it feels like it sweeps out across all of us watching. It is these short moments that illustrate why 3D technology is so impressive. It really brings things to life.

The Irish band fly through their classics, from Pride (In The Name of Love), Sunday Bloody Sunday, to Beautiful Day and Vertigo. You don’t have to be a big fan of U2 to appreciate this film and its technology. I must admit I got goose bumps when they finished to With or Without You, the whole of the Buenos Aires crowd singing. Not only did it look like an amazing concert but the technology took it to another level, in other words, the next best thing to actually being there,..

Opens in the UK February 22nd 2008.