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The Avatar effect: Harry Potter movies coming in 3D

Los Angeles: Warner Brothers will release the next two Harry Potter films in 3D,a move underscoring the post-Avatar rush for extra-dimensional box office returns. Studio executives around town have been scrutinising film slates for opportunities to expand forays into 3D releasing. Warners has been testing footage from its upcoming Clash of the Titans converted into 3D by an outside vendor and the tests have gone so well that the studio has decided to release not only Titans but also the two-part Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows in 3D. Warners refused to confirm the decisions Tuesday,but an announcement on Titans a co-production with studio-based producer Legendary Pictures is expected by weeks end. Official word on the Potter pics also is awaited. Conversion expenses have been coming down,so each film will cost just 5 million to change into 3D. Warners also will absorb an additional 5 million expense per picture to pay for 3D glasses for exhibitors handling the movies. In a related move,Warners will push back the release of Titans one week to April 2.