Christopher Nolan Calls Out 3D Films as Overhyped Gimmick

Christopher Nolan has a knack for putting his own spin on mainstream blockbusters, whether it’s a superhero flick or a mind-bending sci-fi. He’s managed to draw in everyone from casual punters to die-hard film buffs, and while his work isn’t without its critics, you can’t argue with his ability to pull a crowd. Nolan’s got a sharp sense for what works on the big screen—and what doesn’t. There are certain tricks of the trade he’s just not interested in, and one in particular really gets up his nose.

Gimmicks have always been part and parcel of the film industry. As Hollywood grew, so did the need for new ways to get bums on seats. Some of these tricks have been a bit of fun, even blurring the line between the audience and the story. Others, though, are just a bit much. Back in the 1950s, blokes like William Castle went all out with wild promos—think vibrating seats, refunds for scaredy-cats, and even ambulances parked outside the cinema for those who couldn’t handle the fright. Entertaining, sure, but not exactly the future of filmgoing.

The Rise and Fall of 3D

Most of those old-school stunts didn’t really stick. But there’s one gimmick that’s managed to hang around: 3D. The idea’s been floating about since the silent film days, but it really took off in the 1950s with the release of House of Wax. Since then, 3D has had its ups and downs, with a big comeback in the 2000s. Suddenly, everyone was donning those flimsy red and blue glasses, and cinemas were offering 3D and even 4D sessions alongside the usual fare. Still, you have to wonder if it’s worth the hassle—two hours in those glasses just to see a few things jump out at you doesn’t sound all that appealing.

Nolan’s not shy about his opinion on the matter. He’s called 3D a “profoundly overrated gimmick,” and reckons,

The question of 3D is a very straightforward one. I never meet anybody who actually likes the format, and it’s always a source of great concern to me when you’re charging a higher price for something that nobody seems to really say they have any great love for.

He’s not keen on the idea of making films in a format just to bump up ticket prices, either.

It’s up to the audience to tell us how they want to watch the films. More people go see these films in 2D, and so it’s difficult data to interpret. And I certainly don’t want to shoot in a format just to charge people a higher ticket price.

Nolan’s Stance on Cinematic Experience

So, if you were hoping to see the bomb go off in Oppenheimer or the chaos of Dunkirk in 3D, you’re out of luck. Nolan’s made it clear he’s not interested in what he sees as a pointless distraction from the real craft of filmmaking. For him, the focus is on telling a story, not on flashy effects that don’t add much to the experience.

He’s sticking to his guns, favouring the classic approach and leaving the 3D glasses behind. For Nolan, it’s all about giving the audience a proper film, not just another gimmick.