U2 3D Opens in 40 Theatres in Japan

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Sun, 03/08/2009 - 20:00 -- Nick Dager

U2 3D opened in more than 40 theaters in Japan on March 7. The film which premiered at last year’s Sundance Film Festival has grossed more than $20 million worldwide. The band’s long-awaited new studio album No Line on the Horizon — their first since 2004 — was released internationally just prior to the Japanese movie premiere. Mark Katz president of distribution National Geographic Cinema Ventures says “We’re delighted that U2 3D which continues to do well domestically and internationally will be released in Japan. Because of the importance of the Japanese market we waited to open there so the film could screen in the best-equipped 3D and IMAX theatres. And the film’s release on the heels of the band’s new CD is perfect timing.” “This was our company’s first production and it was truly a labor of love ” says Sandy Climan CEO of 3ality Digital which produced and shot the movie. “We were confident that we could create an immersive experience that made viewers feel like they were part of the band and we delivered on that promise. We’re thrilled that the movie continues to enthrall audiences around the world.” Filmed in South America during U2’s Vertigo Tour U2 3D is the first live-action movie ever shot produced and exhibited in digital 3D. The film captures the intimacy between band and audience in a unique visceral way and establishes a new standard in 3D digital technology. Directed by Catherine Owens and Mark Pellington U2 3D transforms a series of live concerts by one of the world’s most acclaimed bands into a completely new entertainment experience. U2 3D takes viewers on an extraordinary cinematic journey a quantum leap beyond traditional concert films and traditional 3D immersing audiences in the excitement and throbbing intensity of a stadium concert. 3ality Digital’s Jon Shapiro Peter Shapiro and John Modell along with Owens produced the 3ality Digital presentation. Climan David Modell and Michael Peyser served as executive producers while Steve Schklair served as 3D and digital image producer. National Geographic Entertainment www.nationalgeographic.com.