Wow. We just saw U2 3D on IMAX last night and I still feel like I just went to a live concert, with the concert being in this case, their Vertigo tour. After the first song I had to keep myself from clapping like the rest of the concert audience. The picture and sound is so clear that even at the risk of sounding cliche, I have to say that you feel like you are there. At least once Bono's hand seemed to be inches from my face.

What is nice about the IMAX, and 3D, experience is how close you feel you are to people you would probably never approach in a normal lifetime. Such was the case in this movie. You are essentially on the stage with U2. Not only could you notice aesthetics - they appeared to be aging quite well ;) - but there were a lot of clear close-ups of all the band members. With The Edge and Larry Mullin, you could see exactly what they are doing on lead guitar and drums, respectively. And with The Edge you notice what types/brands of guitar he uses and how often he changes them (every song). It was this proximity to the legendary Edge and his fret boards that my husband and teenage son enjoyed the most about the movie.

The song list was a good mix of new and classic U2. Of course, there was a strong anti-war, 'why can't we all just get along' theme, but this is what U2 is about. It was never overdone, however. The special visual effects to each song were impressive. I wasn't sure if the visual display was essentially similar to what was shown at the concerts, and enhanced with the 3D, or if there was more added to the movie version. Either way, it was very often dazzling. The shots of the concert audience added to the feel of really being there.

This movie is definitely worth the IMAX ticket price. And compared to what an actual concert ticket price was going for during the tour ($300 for an acquaintance of ours), it's a real bargain for the best seat in the house. I plan on seeing it again.

Recommended: Yes