Chicken hit boosts Disney 3D plan

Scrubs actor Zach Braff is the voice of Chicken Little

Disney is to release a 3D version of its next computer animated film Meet the Robinsons, following the success of Chicken Little.

The 3D version of Chicken Little took an average $26,000 (£15,175) per cinema in its debut weekend, compared with $10,961 (£6,400) for the 2D version.

The movie was released in 3D version in 79 outlets.

But Disney hopes to release the 3D Meet the Robinsons in 1,000 screens as more cinemas switch to digital projection.

Innovative

The whole industry is in the early stage of switching to digital from old celluloid filmstrip.

But the process is costly at about $80,000 (£46,673) to $100,000 (£58,330) per system.

"The box office performance level of the 3D theatres proves that the public is not only embracing the story but the newest in innovative technology as well," said Disney movie distribution chief Chuck Viane.

Chicken Little is Disney's first all-computer animated movie made without the help of its partner Pixar.

Disney and Pixar are currently in talks to renew their deal which is due to come to an end in 2006.