Forget harem pants, spray tans and barely-there tops and bottoms. This summer's must-have fashion accessory is a pair of glasses that transport the wearer to a distant planet populated by large blue aliens.
Advance screenings of sci-fi blockbuster Avatar began across the country last night ahead of its official opening today.
The film, reported to have cost more than $250 million to make, will screen in 3D on digital projectors and in 2D from traditional 35mm film prints. Ticket-holders to 3D sessions will be issued with special glasses before heading into the cinema.
Many industry observers believe if Avatar is successful it will revolutionise movie-making and encourage more directors to experiment with 3D technology.
Dendy is charging $20 for each Avatar 3D session ticket and the glasses must be returned after each screening. Tickets are $16 and $14.50 for children and Club Dendy members respectively. Dendy management will monitor theft rates during the next few months before deciding whether to install a security system.
Hoyts are charging $20 for an adult and $16 for a child but have opted for a cheaper version of the glasses that can be taken home and reused at future screenings.
Limelight Cinemas, an all-digital venture set to open in Tuggeranong on Boxing Day, will offer 3D session tickets for $14.90 each, which includes a pair of glasses that can also be reused.
For more on this story and on 3D cinema see today's Canberra Times.
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