"Lion King" spawns more 3D classic re-releases

(CBS News) 

The astounding success of re-releasing a 3D version of "The Lion King" took Hollywood by surprise and caused it to do a double take. Now, it's combing through the vaults to see what other blockbusters should get the 3D treatment.

"The Lion King 3D" is crushing the competition at the box office. The re-release of the film 17 years after its debut has surprised many, spending the past two weekends at the top of the box office chart, taking in more than $65 million so far. The original, in 1994, became the highest-grossing animated movie of all-time.

"Early Show" co-anchor Erica Hill reports other blockbusters will soon be looking for your box office dollars with 3D reboots.

In April, a new version of "Titanic," the second-biggest movie of ever, will be released in 3D.

A 3D "Star Wars: Episode One - The Phantom Menace" comes out in February, and the Tom Cruise classic "Top Gun" is also reportedly in the works.

And whichother classic are next to get the 3D treatment?

"Early Show" co-anchor Jeff Glor reports Sony is planning to re-release the original "Ghostbusters" in October.

Dalton Ross, assistant managing editor for Entertainment Weekly magazine, said the re-release probably won't have the box office impact of "The Lion King 3D," but "fans will love it."

"I think, though, if you're not adding any bells or whistles, new scenes, extra footage or 3D, I think the box office impact will be minimal."

Ross said the best formula for 3D releases is nostalgic value with families.

He said, "So, you say, 'I loved this as a kid, I want to re-experience it and introduce my kids to it.' That way, they're not selling just one ticket, but three or four, and that seems to be the formula that works."

However, Hill noted, parents may not want to subject their kids to the over-sized 3D glasses necessary for viewing the movies.

Ross replied, "Absolutely, and it's interesting that 'The Lion King' has been such a hit, because we're seeing with current movies, parents are saying, 'I don't want to pay the $4 extra, I don't want the huge glasses on my child. I'll go to 2D and it will be fine.' So absolutely, I think you're seeing a rush toward more 2D in the current films."

What would you like to see re-released in 3D? Let us know in the comments area below.

Also, in response to an "Early Show" Facebook question, several people said "The Wizard of Oz." Others suggested "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory," "Back to the Future" and "Fight Club."

Friend "The Early Show" on Facebook.

[ianlou]

3D is incredable for nature, flight, space and ocean documentaries.
As for movies, I watch most movies for the dialog, not the visual.

[daffy64]

Boy Hollywood is stupid. It's not the fact that it's in (headache inducing) 3D, guys.

There just aren't any new good movies out right now.