Fox Testing JVC Technology for 2D-to-3D Conversion

JVC is showing 3D clips of Fox’s I, Robot, which were converted using its new 2D-to-3D conversion workstation, at the Hollywood Post Alliance Technology Retreat in Palm Springs.

our editor recommends

Sony Unveils 'Green' OLED Reference Monitor at Hollywood Post Alliance Tech Retreat

STORY: Martin Scorses Encourages Restoration of 3D Films for Blu-ray

Ian Harvey, senior vp, advanced technology at Fox, explained that while there is not enough available 3D content to grow a market, the economic model currently doesn’t work as 3D conversion of a feature can cost between $40,000-$100,000 per minute.

Harvey explained that the studio is working with JVC to improve the 2D-to-3D conversion workstation with with an eye toward developing a cost effective way to get a quality result. The JVC technology, he suggested, might “enable us to make decisions (to convert content). Right now it is cost prohibitive.”

STORY: Restored 'Lawrence of Arabia' Clips Previewed at HPA Event

The conversion work on I, Robot is being accomplished at VideoTek, a Japan-based subsidiary of JVC.

Fox is also testing the JVC workstation with episodic series television content. A 3D trailer for the series New Girl was converted using the technology.

JVC has not yet established a US price for the system.