Ok, I understand the studios thinking behind this new surge of 3D movies. If movies are released at the cinema in 3D, then the pirates can’t whip a camera out and sell thousands of dodgy copies down the local market, thereby ruining the film industry and decimating all profits! – Seems like a good idea – the cinemagoer gets to immerse themselves in this wonderful 3D experience, and piracy is defeated. Unfortunately it’s not that simple. The studios and cinemas have used this opportunity to yet again rip us off.

I paid a visit to my local cinema recently to see Coraline. I didn’t care that the movie was in 3D,- I’d have still gone and seen it as I’m a fan of Neil Gaiman’s stories. I got to the counter and was told I’d have to pay a supplement – a 3D tax – for the privilege of seeing this 3D movie. Not to worry, I have a pair of 3D glasses from when I went to see Monsters vs. Aliens 3D – this must just be a charge to cover all those Eric Costello style glasses. But no; I’d still have to pay the 3D tax as it was apparently to cover the cost of the new projectors.

Did we have to pay a supplement to cover the cost of surround sound? Do we have to pay for the heating to be turned on, or for the seats? No – So why do we have to pay extra for 3D technology? Subsequently, I refused to pay the tax and will wait for Coraline on DVD or Blu-Ray.