The Odeon cinema in Kettering is responding to the growing popularity of 3D films with the addition of a further two special projectors early this year, resulting in three of its eight screens able to show such movies.

The technology being used is the 'Real D' system which is a significant advance on the two-tint system used for 3D effects in the past.

Odeon marketing manager Simon Hopkins said "With the public embracing digital 3D in 2009, and with Avatar having now become the world's second highest ever grossing film, the time is obviously ripe to install these extra screens. The first should be ready for Alice In Wonderland in March."

The chart of Kettering Odeon's top 3D releases in 2009 was topped by Ice Age 3: Dawn Of The Dinosaurs, followed by Up, Bolt, Monsters Vs Aliens and A Christmas Carol.

Avatar was at number six, even though it was only released on December 16.

It was closely followed by G-Force, The Final Destination, My Bloody Valentine and Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs.

Upcoming 3D releases include the re-issue of Toy Story 2, Battle For Terra, Alice in Wonderland, How To Train Your Dragon and Piranha.

Colin Griffiths, 47, of Chaston Place, Kettering, said: "I've never seen a film in 3D before and I think I would definitely give it a try. I'd like to see a sci-fi film or the new Star Trek film.

"The way technology is going I think it will become the norm to have 3D films and they will all be made that way.

"This will raise the profile of Kettering.

"I can't think of anywhere else round here which shows 3D films."