Firstly, as this film was released in both 3D and 2D formats, I feel obligated to explain that this review is based solely on the 3D picture… And yes I would rate the film much differently if I had seen the 2D version of the same film.

With that out of the way, I feel the need to (very briefly) explain a little of the history behind My Bloody Valentine, as many people are unaware that it is in fact a remake of an early 80's Canadian horror film. While the original doesn't stand as a classic, and certainly can't be compared to a film such as Bob Clark's Black Christmas, it is an enjoyable film, and a much stronger film than Patrick Lussier's 3D remake. But… the remake is 3D, and for that reason alone, I thoroughly enjoyed it.

The last 3D film I saw was Spy Kids 3, which was also a blast, but it was marred by the murky discoloration of a brilliantly vivid and colourful film, by way of traditional red and blue 3D glasses. My Bloody Valentine is far superior in its delivery of the three dimensional effect, as it uses polarized glasses which simply darken the image slightly, and make a much more inviting 3D effect. The glasses provide every sequence with a depth of field that is unlike anything I have really ever experienced. Even simple sequences, in which nothing happens, have a strikingly unique appearance. But it's nothing compared to the deliberate 3D effects.

The sequences which were obviously crafted for their 3D effect are fantastic… when they work. There are a few sequences in which the dimensional effect doesn't seem to have the same effect on the audience that was obviously intended. This is rare however, and generally the effects are great. A pickaxe thrown early in the movie seems to come clear off the screen, and at one point a character's jaw is ripped clean off and hurls toward the audience. That particular moment was not only the highlight of the film, but also one of the highlights of my entire life… It's that great.

Aside from the 3D, the film has one more particularly entertaining feature… a throwback to the good ‘ole gratuitous nudity of the classic slasher film. Some may call me perverted, and may complain that the sequence is entirely unnecessary and exploitative… and you would be completely right. However, if you have a problem with it, then you are entirely missing the point, and you're probably sitting in on the wrong film. Nudity is as much a part of the traditional horror film as violence and gore. It's nice to see someone pay that sort of respect to an underappreciated genre. Congratulations Mr. Lussier, and thank you, Betsy Rue.

Without the 3D experience, there is nothing to recommend here, however. The plot is as by the numbers as a film can get, and loses points for its pretentious attempts at manipulating the audience through ridiculous plot twists and unnecessary confusion regarding the identity of the killer. Todd Farmer and Zane Smith's script keeps the basic premise and characters somewhat true to the original film, yet feel the need to introduce some bizarre plot devices that are so unexplainable and out of place that you simply can't help but laugh at how ridiculous they are. This is all in an attempt to keep the audience from guessing the killer's true identity, and even goes so far as to include one sequence that is particularly crafted for the sole purpose of preventing you from ‘figuring it out'. Unnecessary, and in the end, ultimately unsatisfying.

But this is a film that was made for 3D, and in that respect it is completely successful. So, it's far from perfect, and if I had seen the two dimensional screening, I would most certainly not pass on a recommendation. I had so much fun with the 3D, however, that I encourage every horror fan to see this film. It's a blast, and is the perfect example of how 3D can elevate a mediocre (or even genuinely bad) film to an incredible level of enjoyment, despite the films numerous shortcomings. The film is My Bloody Valentine 3D, and that is exactly how it should be seen. Had I viewed My Bloody Valentine 2D, there is no way I could pass on a recommendation.