Laura Mahony  Journal Staff

James Cameron’s 1997 Titanic was a masterpiece in itself, but is now taken to a new level in 3D form. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, Titanic has been a box office hit, as well as a classic in our hearts since the day it was released in 1997. A great, memorable love story, it challenges the audience to understand the facts and take pleasure in the fiction. This fictional story demonstrates Cameron’s artistic zeal and also his incredible shots and visuals. Although 3D is popular in the film industry and audiences, it is not always the best fit for certain stories. However, it fits like a glove for Titanic, as it places each audience member aboard that ship.
Titanic is intensified through the use of 3D imagery. Just when you thought the original version was incredibly shot and full of artistic brilliance, Cameron amazes again with stunning 3D visuals. Picture a shot of an underground shipwreck fading into what it once was—a grand ship of dreams. Imagine characters developing into relatable people before your eyes. If these aren’t captivating enough in 2D, paint the picture of them in your mind in a third dimension. The audience isn’t watching this story; they’re actually in it. It comes alive through the use of 3D.

 
On a side note, it is important to mention Cameron’s dialogue isn’t the strongest. He is a brilliant man no doubt, but if you take a closer look into this film, you’ll realize that it’s the silent moments and the eye and body contact that really creep into your emotions. These moments are what make the story and the film so powerful. These silent, emotional moments are typically the most powerful in our own personal lives as well. I find this incredibly insightful and artistic on Cameron’s part.

 
Character performance is an equally crucial aspect of the film. Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet light up the screen with their performances. They play off each other magnificently and especially in this 3D version they bring a whole new life to the screen with the way they come right at the viewer with a brilliant mix of intensity and passion. Winslet was nominated for an Oscar for her performance, but DiCaprio did not. Taking no credit away from Winslet, as her nomination was well deserved, but there is no way that DiCaprio did not deserve one at least just as much. As Jack Dawson, DiCaprio ignited the screen with youthful passion and determination that really set the whole story in motion. If not for his major role in the film, Titanic would certainly lose much of its nobility, particularly in 3D.