The concept of the "death of cinema" is a legitimate concern for the film buffs of the world. Within the past several years, 3D and stunning CGI graphics have become staples in the film industry, and can be found in nearly half of the movies in theaters every day. What 3D and CGI do can cheapen the movie going experience for those of us who truly adore the cinema for its original greatness. The cinema has entered a new phase of novelty that doesn't seem to be wearing off. It's all about the money and 3D/CGI sells.
But these attractions aren't always evil. In fact, quite often, CGI, and even 3D, are used in ways that enhance film. This concept was quite clear to me when I watched the film "Melancholia". The opening of this movie was spectacular, visually. the establishing shots in this film actually took place at the conclusion of the story, when the world is on the verge of destruction. There is no way this strong establishment could have been made as eloquently as it was without modern technology and CGI.
With that being said, I think CGI has its place in film, and can definitely be utilized in ways that not only fit into the movie, but make the movie. For me, this opening was simply awesome. The moments in this opening, such as electricity shooting upward form Justine's fingers, or Claire carrying her son on the golf course (19 holes?) create lasting images in my mind. Now when I think of "Melancholia", those two are the first images that come into my head. This is a good thing.
So all in all, the current notion of the "death of cinema" is full of grey areas. While many films are abusing CGI and 3D, there are other cases in which these tools are used for the betterment of films. It is just up to the film buffs of the world to decipher where these tools are used for good and where they are used for evil.
