People are watching a 4-D movie. The first 4-D movie hall of Yunnan has been opened in Yonghua International Cinema of Kunming, February 10. [Photo/Liu Puli]

The first 4D movie hall of Yunnan has been opened in the 7th hall of Yonghua International Cinema of Kunming, February 10.

Some audiences care on the high price of 4D films’ tickets. According to the president of the cinema, Zhu Zhongxiang (朱中响), the price of one ticket is about 20% higher than a common ticket’s because of more expensive production fees and equipments. Zhu said, “A brand new software system has been introduced to the 4D movie hall. The system controls all the physical effects. Audiences will have the chance to watch 4D edition of 3D films.” Movie fans can also watch the newest films in 4D version in Kunming.

Physical effects occur in synchronization with the film, including: seat moving, rain, wind, lightening, and water spray. Audiences can really have a “you-are-there” sense.

A 3-D (three-dimensional) film or S3D (stereoscopic 3D) film is a motion picture that enhances the illusion of depth perception. Derived from stereoscopic photography, a regular motion picture camera system is used to record the images as seen from two perspectives (or computer-generated imagery generates the two perspectives in post-production), and special projection hardware and/or eyewear are used to provide the illusion of depth when viewing the film. 3-D films are not limited to feature film theatrical releases; television broadcasts and direct-to-video films have also incorporated similar methods, primarily for marketing purposes.

4-D film (four-dimensional) is a marketing term that describes an entertainment presentation system combining a 3-D film with physical effects in the theatre, which occur in synchronization with the film. Because the physical effects are expensive to set up, 4-D films are usually presented only at special venues such as theme parks and amusement parks. However, in Korea, some movie theatres also have the ability to present a 4-D film and the film Avatar was one of 10 films that have received the treatment, starting with Journey to the Center of the Earth. Some of the effects simulated in 4-D films include rain, wind, strobe lights, and vibration. The use of water sprays and air jets is also common. A 4-D film is not shown in a motion simulator, although some seats in 4-D venues vibrate or may move a few inches during the presentation. (Editor: Tina)