Pure Rugby Blog

England v Wales Six Nations Rugby Match to be shown in 3D

The 2010 Six Nations game between England and Wales will be shown in Cinemas using the latest 3D technology. The match is being screened in Odeon Cinemas across England and also in Cineworlds in Cardiff and Newport…. apparently by popular demand!

Am I the only person who feels that paying £12.50 to go and watch an international  rugby match in the cinema is missing the point? I’m all for experimentation with new and exciting technologies but, from what I know about the atmosphere of match day (the wonderful mix of friends, foes, drink and camaraderie) and what I understand about modern 3D technology (I’ve seen Avatar and read up a little about it) I can’t help but think the rugby won’t lend itself to the format very well.

I imagine that panning shots of stadiums and crowds with vibrant colours and grand structures would work well. I think the close up shots of lineouts, scrums etc. would also work, but will the long shots that are so important to watching a rugby match actually work? Each player is a just a tiny sprite on the screen, a small collection of pixels – so small that we can only recognise the players by a combination of their gait and their position on the field. How will 3D lend itself to those sort of shots?

Sky broadcast the recent Arsenal v Manchester Utd premiership match in 3D in selected pubs around the UK and the overall response seems to be disappointment… many of the lucky blues brothers styled “Guinea Pigs” who participated in the groundbreaking sporting event felt the most impressive features were the Sky Sports graphics! It was their first attempt at it though, and at least the “Guinea Pigs” got to watch it in the pub and didn’t have to pay £12.50 for the privilege!

I have no doubt they will get the technology to work, I’m just not sure we’re quite at the stage where the technology is able to enhance our enjoyment of the event. Match day traditions and festivities are a part of British culture and long may that continue. For now at least, 3D or no 3D, from a Welsh perspective, if you haven’t managed to get tickets to the match there is only one place to watch the rugby… The Pub with your mates!!

What are your thoughts about the England v Wales 3D Six Nations Rugby Match in Cinemas? We’d love to find out your opinions.