“No way! I’m not paying that much!”

I have had many similar conversations with my friends concerning 3D movies. While some see no issue in shelling out five extra dollars, many (myself included) adamantly argue that 3D movies are certainly not worth the extra cash.

Recently, 3D has become the norm at theaters, not only with action movies, but with animated films as well. 3D seems to be the newest fad in filmmaking—3D TVs have even been developed in order to immerse viewers in their entertainment, even in their homes.

However, many movies do not properly utilize this technology. Numerous films are marketed as “3D” and “immersive,” but rarely employ impressive visual effects. While movies such as Tron: Legacy were praised for their outstanding use of 3D technology, many animated films did not live up to their promises.

Animated pictures such as Toy Story 3, Despicable Me and Tangled lacked the necessary 3D “wow” factor to justify their extra costs. The films would be virtually unaltered without the addition of the three dimensional glasses.

The summer flick Piranha 3D is a prime example of a movie in which effects were added after the fact as a marketing gimmick, as opposed to those movies shot in 3D from their inception. Scenes featuring poorly executed 3D piranhas were clearly added only to increase ticket prices.

Still, even some movies with a great attention to 3D detail are severely flawed. Many pictures pay too much attention to their special effects. Oftentimes, a great deal of effort is placed into the 3D effects, while the storyline lacks both flow and relatable characters . These effects are often dizzying and headache-inducing.

Additionally, 3D glasses are an extra annoyance at the theater- we must already deal with walking on sticky floors, finding cup holders in the dark and carrying food from the concession stand to our seats. Now, we must also carry along a large pair of glasses. Those who wear everyday glasses to improve their vision must double up by sporting both their normal glasses and a pair of 3D shades.

Junior Mandy Heiser says of the recent influx of 3D movies, “In most cases, I don’t think 3D is really necessary. Tron: Legacy and Avatar have been the only exceptions. But Justin Bieber in 3D? Seriously?”

Sophomore Natalie Lozano agrees, saying, “I don’t think many 3D movies are worth more money. Movies like Alice in Wonderland are helped by the effects, but others just make you pay more to watch the same thing you could see in 2D.”

Senior Amanda Uyesugi offers a completely different opinion, stating, “3D movies are definitely worth the extra money! I love seeing the visual effects coming towards me!”

3D movies should take cues from attractions such as Mickey’s Phillharmagic, a film at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. The picture incorporates sight, sound, smell and touch, using a balance of visual effects to impress the audience without making them dizzy.

Instead of applying Disney’s technique of carefully using new technologies to enhance the viewer’s experience, studios are gouging their customers, using technology for technology’s sake.

Until 3D movies are well-balanced in both effects and plot, they are simply not worth the extra money.

Fashion

Fashion, something many girls hold close to their hearts, showcased some great styles during New York Fashion Week. The top fashion trend this year? Plaid. Motorcycle jackets, dresses, and flannel have all been hit with the plaid plague. A clothing item with plaid print is a necessity for this year’s look. Pres girls are of course already way ahead of the fashion world with this trend. Finally the Presentation blue plaid skirt is in. Girls can stand proud in their skirts off campus knowing they are stylish and trendy. Other major trends include the boyfriend jean, zippers, boots, and bright, neon colors. Shoe stores, such as DSW, have dedicated at least eight rows for boots alone. Designers found unusual ways to incorporate zippers on flats, purses, and pants. Boyfriend jeans appear on legs of women throughout America and are sold at most retail stores. The famous Michael Kors had his models strutting a neon pink and neon green dress down the runway. So hit the mall as soon as possible and pick up clothing items of these fierce fashion trends that fit will your style.

Music

Many musical geniuses produced top hits this year, but the genre that really took off was pop. According to iTunes’s statistics, “Party in the USA” by Miley Cyrus is the number one most popular song of this fall. This hit single soared to the top of the charts within its first week of release. The second most popular song is “I Got a Feeling” by the Black Eyed Peas. It is not uncommon to hear people chanting this catchy tune. Its feel-good vibe attracts many teens to want to listen to it. Third on the charts is “Down” by Jay Sean. This song received 4 ½ out of 5 stars from iTunes listeners. “Down” has an optimistic, loving beat instantly attracting teens. It also helps that the infamous Lil’ Wayne is featured in the song with his 30 second rap segment. Other top pop songs include “She Wolf” by Shakira, “Whatcha Say” by Jason DeRulo, and “Fallin’ for You” by Colbie Caillat.

Technology

In order to listen to music, having the essential MP3 player is crucial. Apple’s new iTouch second generation not only allows you to listen to your music without headphones, but includes internet, games, calendars, and even texting.  This all-in-one device is the trendiest and most efficient way to hear your music while communicating with your friends. You can even access the Presentation Voice website and keep up to date with school and other events. The website includes pictures, articles, and even fun quizzes. Check out more at www.presentationvoice.com.

If you’re looking for an adventurous, futuristic movie to see, keep your eye out for the upcoming film Avatar. Written by James Cameron, this 3D action packed movie will be unlike any other you have seen. According to Screen Rant, all actors are filmed special bodysuits and head rigs with a standard definition camera that is constantly snapping photos of the actors’ face. The image is then transmitted to another camera that is able to see the actors in their “CG” costumes. “The way we developed the performance capture workflow on ‘Avatar’ is we have our virtual camera, which allows me to, in real time, hold a camera — it’s really a monitor — in my hands and point it at the actors and see them as their CG characters” Cameron says. This movie should be coming to theaters in the summer of 2010.

This fall will surely be an explosion of exciting new things. Keep your eyes out for these trends to stay up to date with all the latest fads. Remember, originality is the new pink! So what are you waiting for? Go out, buy, and stay in style!