Today Warner Bros. released a statement announcing that Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 will be presented only in 2D format, in standard theaters and IMAX alike. [Deadline] Part 2 will be released in both 2D and 3D formats (on July 15, 2011), as planned. UPDATE: The theatrical trailer for WB’s Green Lantern, starring Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively, will premiere with Hallows: Part 1. [/Film]
“Despite everyone’s best efforts, we were unable to convert the film in its entirety and meet the highest standards of quality,” the statement reads. Director David Yates is quoted at the end of the statement, backing the decision.
It’s smart move, in the long run. By deciding to stick to the planned release date (November 19, 2010) rather than push it back for 3D conversion, it comes off looking like a move for the fans, especially after including that “meet the highest standards of quality” bit at the end of the pulled quote above, not to mention Yates’ little diddy. WB has always been smarter than most studios when it comes to marketing (see The Town). They are both aware of the wane in 3D enthusiasm and in the strength of the boy wizard’s (*Gasp*) story.
Imagine that? People going to see a movie because they’re curious how a story ends. Not how many times a lighting bolt from a wand can virtually almost hit their face.
Sure, they’ll lose millions of 3D dollars, but save themselves from critics potentially distracted by the “poor conversion” and fans who would be certainly a little more than aggravated by a release date push.
Well played, Warners. Well played.
What do you think of this decision? Will it hurt the Potter franchise? Can anything?