Step Into the Third Dimension

Step Into the Third Dimension (1989)

** 1/2 (out of 4)

Nishika N8000 3D camera is the subject of this fifteen-minute short film. Why would one want to watch a film about a camera? Well, in this case it's because the host is none other than Vincent Price. Price makes several jokes or homages to his previous 3D work including HOUSE OF WAX.

Honestly, if you're looking for something great then you're not going to find it here but if you're a fan of Price then this is certainly worth watching. He's certainly the most interesting thing in the film as he talks about how to load the camera as well as the proper distance to stand back from the object you want the 3D image to reflect.

I'm really not sure how well this camera sold but I can't imagine too many people being happy with it since Mr. Price gives us a lot of information on shooting distance and I'm sure your average Joe on vacation wasn't going to properly measure every shot out before taking it. As far as this film goes, there's certainly nothing great or bad about it so it's mainly going to appeal to fans of Vincent Price.

This was one of Vincent Price's last works, but the creative spirit which he brings to his acting is still evident. Despite the fact that this film is really an instructional video for a Mishika camera, it is still enjoyable to watch, mainly because Mr. Price is so darn creepy. After all, in what other instructional video are you going to find Vincent Price addressing your average suburban family on camera instructions? Although there are occasional times when it is obvious Mr. Price is reading from cue cards, the occasional references to his other films are entertaining for the die-hard Price fan. Especially recommended is the opening and ending sequence, both taking place on a set resembling the "House of Wax" movie set.

If you somehow find this film, I highly recommend you watch it. It will remind you what a talented actor Price was, though it isn't itself the most thrilling thing he has ever done.