3D for Me

Robert EbsenOP-ED

Around 1953, something wonderful happened that literally opened my eyes and exited my soul.

It was 3D comic books and 3D movies: The second revolution in 3D.

Stereoscopic devices, which excited people over a hundred years ago, ushered in the first 3D revolution.

And today we see the third 3D revolution: The 3D movies that began arriving in the early part of this century, and which have catapulted their fascination to the masses with the arrival of “Avatar” 3D in 2010.

I still enjoy donning my red and blue 3D anaglyph glasses to browse through my collection of 3D comics, and to view my 3D picture collection on Picasa.

In just a matter of years, we will all watch 3D shows and movies on our 3D TVs: the coming fourth 3D revolution.

So, on what is my fascination with 3D based? After all isn’t everything we see, using our natural binocular vision, already in 3D?

I believe that my excitement comes from seeing a fantasy world in 3D, so unlike what I usually see in 3D every day.

That fantasy world appears so real, even though my brain tells me it is not real. That dichotomy makes it exciting. It’s as if I were saying to myself: This can’t be real. Why does it appear real – with depth, just as though I were seeing it with my own eyes? Hey! I am seeing it with my own eyes!

The fifth 3D revolution: Can you imagine a 3D 360-degree projection chamber with a rotating seat, which, once entered, will take you on a trip to the location of your choice? My choice: Playing with my kids and grandchildren through the years.

Mr. Ebsen may be contacted at robertebsen@hotmail.com