FOUR years after the closure of the IMAX, Bournemouth cinema-goers are celebrating being able to watch 3D films again.

Bournemouth’s ABC (Odeon) Cinema on Westover Road now has a screen with 3D capabilities and has been showcasing the latest in 3D technology.

Audience members no longer have to don those geeky-looking red and blue glasses – the new chic black-framed sunglass-esque glasses provide a much-improved visual effect, at no expense of fashion.

The free 15-minute demonstration presentations showcase various children’s films, advertisements and real-life footage in top quality 3D film.

The technology works by getting the eyes to each see a slightly different image and the brain then combines the two to create a 3D picture.

So expect some forthcoming films to be enhanced by the likes of roaring flames, shattering glass and ferocious animals coming to life before our eyes.

It was the release of Ice Age 3 in 3D that really drew in the crowds.

Odeon team leader James Letchford said: “Ticket sales are up 60 per cent on Ice Age 3 3D when compared to figures for the 2D version, which is really good.”

In future the cinema will be able do things such as broadcast sporting events filmed with specialised equipment, and show birthday messages and trivia quizzes before feature presentations.