“The challenge of working with U2 and digital 3-D technology on this film has been very exciting. When collaborating with U2 you walk a fine line between making art and reflecting the honesty of their performance,” said Owens. “The band has been involved in each step of the process and having this kind of commitment from them has been very encouraging for everyone working on the film. Between their passion for the project and our extraordinary team, I feel that together we have carved out a delicate and exquisite piece of film history.”

Post-production was led by editor Olivier Wicki, who had previously worked with Owens on the “Original of the Species” video.  Sassoon Film Design also took animated sequences from the live show and recreated them for the movie’s 3-D space.  Given the impracticality of screening 3-D scenes for each of the band members, the decision was made to initially edit the project in 2-D, then conform the 3-D to match.  The visuals were cut first, then handed over by section to music producer Carl Glanville, who has brought his skills to such feature films as “Gangs of New York” as well as previous U2 albums including the band’s most recent hit, “How to Dismantle An Atomic Bomb.” Glanville complemented the stereoscopic look of the project with equally immersive 5.1 surround sound.  By necessity, the team at 3ality Digital created a world-first post-production facility delivering the stereoscopic images and multi-channel music in a new dynamic dimension.  Their goal: to transport audiences from their seats to virtually become part of one of the band’s greatest tours.

“What’s exciting about seeing U2 live is that their concerts are totally engaging and take you on a powerful journey through the songs,” commented executive producer Sandy Climan.  “U2 3D is neither just a concert film nor a front-row seat at a live show, but a new cinematic experience that brings viewers into the pulsing energy of a stadium concert in an unexpectedly intimate and surprisingly realistic way.”

U2 3D marks the most recent addition to a more than century-old technology legacy for National Geographic Entertainment, which is distributing the film worldwide. In 1888 it was publication and distribution of a monthly magazine.  In 2008 it’s the distribution of a movie that redefines both the cinematic and concert experiences.  "Music is a powerful means of cultural expression," said David Beal, president of National Geographic Entertainment.  "The impact of combining U2's music and performance with next-generation 3-D technology has resulted in a film that breaks boundaries and is an inspiring celebration of the world."

As the first-ever live-action film to be shot, produced and projected in the digital 3-D format, U2 3D will be exhibited in theaters around the world equipped with digital 3-D projection systems and will also be seen in giant screen IMAX 3D® cinemas, which are located in 38 countries

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