A 3D Effects Showcase

Rating: 7/10 (3 December 2007)

Simply put, this movie is a showcase of how 3D effects can greatly enhance a movie viewing experience. May not be cutting-edge technology as this are already in use in theme parks or IMAX. Still, I haven't seen a 3D movie as mesmerizing as this. When I saw the swooping landscapes, the 3D really gives it a very good sense of distance and perspective. I can feel the scale of near and far objects. Then there's the action sequences which benefits from the use of 3D effects. Adding that third dimension enhances the viewer's experience by giving the illusion of being closer to the action. Combine this with the clever use of camera angles and movements and you got yourself a winner. Even simple scenes such as people talking and moving around - we see the characters, surroundings and objects pops out of the theater screen. It's a treat for the eyes.
The 3D effect is topnotch but the CGI animation itself is somewhat of a letdown. The quality is not consistent. There are times when King Hrothgar, portrayed by Anthony Hopkins, does look like the actor but on other scenes the character looked entirely different. Facial animation is very important as this is the main driver for the visuals of the character's emotions and yet we see unblinking eyes and some video game-grade lip-sync. Face modeling looks great for the male characters while a little patchy on the female characters. Beowulf's face is nicely rendered, the facial hair, pores and scars looked realistic. Contrast it with Queen Wealtheow's face whose texture looked like it came from a wax museum. The jerky movements of the characters is also noticeable at times. Overall, good animation but I've seen better.
The story takes a backseat from the overwhelming visuals but it's still good. It is based from the heroic legend of Beowulf, battling a monster named Grendel and a dragon. What I appreciated about the movie is that the writers, Neil Gaiman and Roger Avary, ties up those two unrelated battles by including a subplot showing that the hero can be fallible and dearly pays for his mistake. I like the story adaptation but purists will surely be upset.
Recommended viewing just for the novelty of the 3D effects, so please skip the 2D version. The movie is a good effort and I'm looking forward on the next generation of 3D movies.
I watched the movie at SM North, admission price P300. Disappointed with the cheap 3D glasses provided, which is made of carton, but it gets the job done.