NFL in 3D: Good technology overcomes bad entertainment
By Thomas Ricker 
posted Dec 5th 2008 2:01AM
posted Dec 5th 2008 2:01AM
"The experience wasn't jaw-dropping, but it was noticeably better than a conventional broadcast. The game was drama-free, yet the novelty of 3D made it hard for me to take my eyes off the screen... The effect was subtle at times, but just as compelling as in "U2 3D," 3ality's concert film of the Irish rockers. The most striking thing in both cases was how much more you could see in three dimensions than in two."The event wasn't glitch free, however. Two hiccups caused the satellite feeds to go black in Boston, New York, and LA. and a few quick camera pans and poorly executed transitions had viewers convulsing behind their polarized glasses. As a proof of concept though, viewers generally seemed impressed which means more of this in the future.
[Via Yahoo]
For me, football just wouldn't have the 3D "wow" factor it needs. There's not enough on-screen most of the time, and with zoomed-out cameras there's simply not enough close-up and in detail.
Sure you've got a consumer base that'll watch it (any football fans willing to try it out); but they really need something with more oomph.
My option anyways =].
Because of the fluidity of positions, football is certainly much more difficult to film in 3D than baseball or basketball. But if they can manage to do it well for the NFL, here's hoping that it becomes the standard for those other sports.
It would be like sitting in a lawn chair behind the umpire or the first baseman, or on top of the backboard as the shots come in. I can't wait.
Mr. Ricker -- thanks for the coverage. 3ality Digital has been working on this technology for 10 years, and we're delighted that the NFL chose to partner with us for last night's test broadcast. The theaters (outfitted by RealD) were packed, and the audience was delighted. They were also treated to seeing the game on 3D televisions that were on hand for the occasion. You may find us in your living rooms much sooner than you think!
--Angela Wilson Gyetvan, 3ality Digital
Wish I was able to make it out to last nights broadcast. I heard nothing but wonderful things though!
i would be interested in a reality TV show in 3D in which camera follows NFL players into nightclubs whilst heavily armed.
Hilarity ensues in 3D.
As the 3D content provider of the Surfing and Snowboarding segment of the 3D half time and time out entertainment, could you please give me some feed back on what you saw up on the screen.... Per Peterson/ Times Squared Productions