even better than the real thing

Actually, probably not. But I reckon, it does come close.

Got to watch U2 3D last Thursday, and in a word, it was mind-blowing. The opening shot of the stage in Buenos Aires with the band yet to even take the stage already conveys enough enchantment, and that was all it took to tell me that I’ll be in for a spectacular show.

And boy, I certainly wasn’t dissapointed.

As a U2 non-fan, I’ve always spoke about how U2 is right at the top of my concerts-to-watch list. From way back Zooropa days, I knew that a U2 concert is a spectacle to behold. And judging from the way the band commands the audience with its presence is akin to an entire course in performance.

Contrary to most people’s reactions, watching U2 3D didn’t make me experience the feel of an actual live concert. There was no wedging oneself among the sweaty and boisterous crowds; instead, the cool air-conditioned theater along with the comfy reclining seats greet you as you enjoy the show. However, the snug environment did have a negative externality, and its that the place was way too tame. Clap and cheer as I would’ve wanted to, it was just too plain embarassing. And I’m sure most of the 40 or so people that watched with me in that particular Imax theater were thinking of the same thing.

The shots were all well-choreographed, positioning you in such a way as no live concert can. One moment, you are with the crowd snapping pictures from their cellphone cameras, and the next, you are flying atop Edge as he plays the piano masterfully. And there’s this particular instance where Bono turns to the camera and sings ever so poignantly, and humiliating as it may seem, I was actually tempted to reach out and touch his 20 foot face.

So much for being a non-fan.

The mix of effects brought about by the live production (especially the political propaganda), and U2 simply being U2 make this the ultimate Imax experience. I doubt am certain that no other band could ever pull this off.