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News Summary: Clear format dispels 'Hobbit' magic

Published: December 7, 2012 Comment on this article

FAST FRAME: Peter Jackson's three-part epic based on "The Hobbit" was shot in 48 frames per second, a format that doubles the rate used for decades. It provides less blur and more clarity.

photo - FILE - This film image released by Warner Bros., shows Ian McKellen as Gandalf in a scene from the fantasy adventure "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey." Filmmaker Peter Jackson's decision to shoot his epic three-part J.R.R. Tolkien prequel in the super-clear format that boosts the number of frames per second to 48 from the current standard, 24, has some unintended consequences. (AP Photo/Warner Bros., James Fisher, File)

FILE - This film image released by Warner Bros., shows Ian McKellen as Gandalf in a scene from the fantasy adventure "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey." Filmmaker Peter Jackson's decision to shoot his epic three-part J.R.R. Tolkien prequel in the super-clear format that boosts the number of frames per second to 48 from the current standard, 24, has some unintended consequences. (AP Photo/Warner Bros., James Fisher, File)

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TOO REAL? Some critics have found the image is so crisp that some of the artifice of moviemaking becomes apparent. One cinematographer thinks it's better for real-life settings, rather than fantastic ones.

BROADER PALETTE: Other filmmakers like James Cameron are eyeing the format, which has become easier in the digital age. Cameron may shoot at 60 frames per second for the "Avatar" sequels.