U.S. theaters prepping for holiday films

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 31 (UPI) -- There could be up to 2,500 3-D cinema locations in the United States in time for the release of major 3-D films this holiday season, 20th Century Fox says.

The film studio said while only 900 theaters nationwide were able to show 3-D works at the start of 2009, a major effort through the year has greatly increased the number of 3-D screens in time for the holiday release of "Avatar," Variety.com reported Friday.

"Avatar," a highly anticipated film from director James Cameron, is to be released Dec. 18.

U.S. theaters also are attempting to install 3-D technology in time for the Nov. 6 release of "A Christmas Carol," an animated Disney version of the classic Christmas tale.

Variety said while all of the planned 3-D locations may not be completed next month, they should be ready for a slew of 3-D films due in 2010.

Among the 16 3-D films already scheduled for release next year is "Alice in Wonderland," which Disney will release March 5.