gemini manParamount has sent a letter to film exhibitors to ask them to test their theaters to see if they are equipped to handle high frame rate (HFR) technology, in both regular and 3D, to make sure they are properly prepared to handle Ang Lee’s upcoming sci-fi action thriller ‘Gemini Man’ starring Will Smith, which will be presented in 60 frames per second 3D, and 120fps 2D in 4K resolution, as opposed to the standard 24fps 3D and 2D.  According to the letter, the ‘Gemini Man’ format is the “most pristine and immersive format.”

“We want to do everything possible to make projecting the high frame rate version of ‘Gemini Man’ a turnkey experience for you and provide audiences with the latest technological advancement in cinema.”

Lee previously employed HFR technology and 3D on the drama ‘Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk’, which raised eyebrows.  Why employ advanced technology for that movie?  Perhaps it was a test run for the upcoming Will Smith adventure, in which Smith plays an aging assassin trying to leave the violence behind, only to find himself hunted by a younger version of himself.  Lee will employ de-aging CGI, as seen in several Marvel movies, including the current hit ‘Captain Marvel’.  And with ‘Gemini Man’ being an action movie, expect plenty more VFX that will need the highest technology to do them justice.  Prior to this, Peter Jackson experimented by shooting ‘The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey’ in 24fps.

According to VFX supervisor Bill Westenhofer, who previously worked with Lee on the visually adventurous ‘Life of Pi’ stated:

“The clone is present for 400-plus scenes in over half the movie, delivering full ‘in your face’ emotional performances.  Our full methodology involves a combination of scenes where Will plays his younger self wearing appropriate costumes for his body and a motion capture head rig.”

Here is the letter that Paramount sent to theater owners:

In addition to Smith, ‘Gemini Man’ stars Clive Owen, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, and Benedict Wong.  The picture opens on October 4.

What do you think about this film being presented in a higher format?  Does that make you want to see the movie more than before?

Source: The Playlist